83rd Anniversary of St. Malachy Parish

St. Malachy was born in the city of Armagh, in Ireland in 1094 to a catholic family. He was raised to be earnestly religious and obedient of the Lord’s commandments. He learned in his childhood how to be devoted to the faith and to live for Christ. 

At the age of twenty-five, he was ordained to the priesthood. In 1124,  was made a bishop and he showed a special zeal in reforming the monastic and diocesan spiritual life. In 1149, he became the Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of Ireland. His efforts at reform met with a great deal of opposition from the political rulers of the time.

St. Malachy is also known for his miracle power. His last days were happy in the company of St. Bernard and his exemplary community. After celebrating Mass on the Feast of St. Luke, he became ill and had to retire to his bed. When the fever became more intense, St. Malachy requested that he be anointed. He refused the offer to have the Last Sacrament brought to him but left his sickbed and walked to the church to receive them.

He died on November 2, 1148, in Clairvaux, France. He was canonized in 1190 by Pope Clement III. Every 3rd of November, we celebrate his feast day. As Archbishop and Papal Legate, he is the dominant figure of church reform in 12th century Ireland.