Plans for the future use of the Friary in Clonmel are to be announced in a few weeks.
Today the Friars confirmed that the property is not being sold and a proposal for future use of the church is being finalised – a Mass of Thanksgiving and Farewell took place today as the Franciscans end their service in Clonmel due to falling vocations.
Concerning the Franciscan church in Clonmel with the knowledge of the Bishop, discussions have been held with a number of groups and individuals who are anxious to keep the church open as a place of private prayer and occasional celebration of Mass.
Those discussions are still ongoing. Until a definite arrangement has been made, the church will be closed.
In Waterford, there are also ongoing discussions about the future use of the Franciscan church.
These cannot be finalised until repairs to the ceiling and the roof of the church are undertaken.
The Friary in Waterford will close today, the repairs will be completed and it is hoped that it will be open again early in the spring.
