 |
| Old St Mary's, Castlefin - click to
enlarge |
The Chapel at Castlefin was built in 1822, by voluntary labour,
and at a cost of £150. The Catholic Emancipation Bill
was not passed for another seven years
It was still against the law to give land for the building
of a Chapel, an unpopular thing to do in Castlefin! The lady
who gave the land told her critics, "A gentleman asked
for it and a gentleman got it!" This was Father Neal
O'Kane.
Catholic Emancipation was being sought at the time. The Established
Church issued a statement, saying that Catholics did not deserve
Emancipation, and that they were afraid - or unable - to defend
their Religion in open discussion.
The challenge was taken up, and the discussion - afterwards
called "The Derry Discussion" - was held in the
Guildhall, for several days in 1828. Father O'Kane took part
in it, and became known as one of the most able disputants
and theologians at the Discussion.
He was a hard-working Priest, beloved by his flock during
the eighteen years as Parish Priest. His death in 1840, was
a great shock to all. He was found dead on the old road, near
St Patrick's Church of Ireland, Donaghmore. The official findings
were that he had died from a fractured skull, caused by a
fall from his horse. But rumour had it that he had been murdered
by two men, who had sworn to do so when he officiated at a
mixed marriage.
The truth of the matter will never be known - but the affair
is still the cause of controversy in the district. Father
O'Kane is buried in front of the Chapel at Castlefin (now
The Old Chapel).
"Castlefin - At the base of the Laggan."
By Dr. S.P. Kerrigan
|
