The weekend was a hugely important time in the Diocese of Raphoe for celebrating new and established clergymen.
Donegal priests Fr Lorcan Sharkey and Fr Michael McCullagh both marked their Golden Jubilees on the same week as the ordination of Father Anthony Hartnett.
Both Fr Sharkey and Fr McCullagh were ordained on 9th June, the feast of St Colmcille, Fr Sharkey and Fr McCullagh represent a century of dedicated service to the Church and the people of Ireland.
Fr. Lorcán Ó Searcaigh, PP Glenfin
Fr Lorcán Sharkey, parish priest of Glenfin, was ordained in his home parish at St Mary’s Star of the Sea Church, Annagry, in 1974. Throughout his ministry, he has served in various capacities, including teaching at St. Eunan’s College, Letterkenny, and St. Columba’s College, Stranorlar. He also held the role of advisor for religious education for the Raphoe Diocese’s 108 primary schools. During part of that time he also served as diocesan secretary to then-Bishop, Séamus Hegarty. Father Lorcan was curate in Killybegs from 1988 to 1990, he was assigned to Milford and Kerrykeel in 2004, to Glenvar in 2005 and then to Glenfin in 2007.
Fr Michael McCullagh, Parish Priest of Knock,
Fr Michael McCullagh currently serves as Parish Priest of Knock. He is a member of the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians) and a founding member of the Vincentian Lay Missionary (VLM) organization. VLM works with underprivileged communities in Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, and Burkina Faso.
Last year, Fr Michael published his book “With Due Respect: Taking a Second Look at God, at Self, at Others.” The book draws on his extensive experience as a spiritual director, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of ministry. Fr Michael is a well-known member of the McCullagh family from Dungloe.
