THE CATHOLIC priest who quit his post after being physically and verbally abused by a small number of people has now left Donegal after thanking people for their support.
Parishoners in Glencolmcille had pleaded with Father Bill McGeady to stay in their parish where had served as a curate for almost two and half years.
He had resigned his position a week ago, citing ongoing incidents of intimidation.
These had left him mentally and physically weakened, said the priest who is a great uncle of Ireland soccer star Aidan McGeady.
“He was very touched by the overwhelming public support but decided that as he had made his mind up, he wanted to go,” said one leading member of the congregation.
“It’s a very sad week for everyone around here because a handful of people refused to let him run the parish his way.
“The fact is that Father Bill was a great curate and it’s unlikely we will get a replacement for him anytime soon. He was very gracious and said he would miss living in Glen.”
Fr McGeady is a native of Gortahork but grew up in Scotland. He is taking up a new position in a parish in Edinburgh.
“The parish is not all about one priest or person in charge,” said Fr McGeady.
“It is about all in the Parish doing their bit to serve God and each other.
“I will miss all the good decent people of Glen, especially the housebound and sick. Please God I will return one day.”
It’s understood the family whose campaign drove Fr McGeady out of Glencolmcille has been shunned in the past week.
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