A former parish priest was given a rousing welcome back by parishioners of Kinawley who had gathered to help him celebrate his 60 years in the priesthood.

The celebrations began with a con-celebrated Mass in St Naile's Church in which Canon Gaffney was assisted by Fr Donald Hannon, PP, Swanlinbar, Fr Gerry Comiskey, formerly Curate in Kinawley (now newly appointed CC Kill-Drung) and Fr Johnny Cusack, also a former Curate, and the present Curate, Fr Gabriel Kelly. Also present was Bro Joe Gilleece who is a native of the parish and is based in Ghana.

Canon Gafney was introduced by Fr Kelly who gave thanks for his 60 years' ministry and he recorded that he served in Kinawley from 1965-'76. The Readings were read by Ailish Flood and Tony Cullen.

In his address, Canon Gaffney said he had very old roots in Kinawley because his father taught in the parish, and he went on to recall his 11 years there and his love for the fine beauty of St Naile's'.

He went on: "This evening, my mind goes back to the centenary of this church in 1976, a very special time for the parish."

It was in that period that he compiled a special centenary book, 'Kinawley Through the Ages.