The contribution of Willie J. Hayes to the community of Holycross and his efforts in the Restoration of Holycross Abbey is to be celebrated in Holycross on Sunday.
Due to a clash with a GAA match the Mass time for the Celebration of William J. Hayes in Holycross on Abbey is now 3.15pm on Sunday December 8th.
Mr Hayes, the former parish priest in Holycross died on December 9th 2023 – he had married after leaving the priesthood and his wife, son and grandchildren will be in attendance on Sunday.
Following the conclusion of Mass, a special sculpture will be unveiled outside the West Door of the Abbey.
This event will include an address by Tipperary TD and Holycross native Michael Lowry.
The Mass and the ceremony can be viewed on the website churchservices.tv/Holycrossabbey. Refreshments will be served in the Community Centre after the formalities and all are welcome to attend.
The event is organised by the Holycross 50 Committee which is planning a series of events leading up to October 5th 2025 which is the 50th Anniversary of the return of Holycross Abbey to the status of Parish Church.
Willie Hayes was instrumental in agreeing to the idea and eventual successful restoration of the Abbey and the return of the relics of the True Cross the idyllic place of pilgrimage on the banks of the River Suir
