DOMINICAN FRIARS

 

The Dominican order was founded by St Dominic who was born about 1170 in Castille, in what is now known as northern Spain. It is said he was a member of the Guzman family and was born in Caleruega, half way between Osma and Aranda, He became a priest and a Canon of the Cathedral at Osma, occupying a position of responsibility in the cathedral chapter..............................read more

 

Priory of St Mary's, Pope’s Quay

Philip de Barry invited the Dominicans to Cork in 1229 and the order built a church called St Mary's of the Isle. The site of this church was near the present convent of the Sisters of Mercy on Sharman Crawford Street. Some stones from the medieval church are set into the walls of the present Dominican priory on Pope's Quay. In 1784 the Dominicans built a house and chapel in Dominick Street. The foundation stone of the present St Mary's was laid in 1832 and on 20 October 1839 the church was officially opened. Kearns Deane was the architect and the driving force behind the building of the church was Fr. B. T. Russell. St Mary's Church was extensively renovated in 1991. Pope's Quay is named for the Widow Pope who lived in Cork in the early 18th century. Situated alongside the river Lee, across from Cork Opera House, St Mary’s priory and church form a pair of instantly recognisable buildings.

This central location permits the Dominican friars to be preachers of the Gospel in the city. The brethren assigned here have varied ministries which include hospital chaplaincy, the preaching of retreats and missions, writing of books, preaching through the medium of the internet as well as a busy sacramental schedule.

The community also has a Pastoral Center where many courses in theology and spirituality are undertaken. Many church related groups in Cork city also use the facilities of the Dominican Centrex. Spiritual direction and counseling services are also provided here.

Interior of St Mary's Church, Popes Quay