THERE was music and there was song, there was food and there was chat and one man was at the centre of it all as a community gathered together to celebrate a great milestone in his life.
Family, friends and parishioners came together in Fossa on Saturday night to celebrate the golden jubilee of Canon Tomás Looney’s ordination to the priesthood and he was willing and able to lead the celebrations with a rousing version of Óró sé do Bheath ‘Bhaile.
The poupular Kerry priest, historian, scholar and author was centre of attention at the packed get-together with his extended family and the parishioners of Fossa where he is now ministering. Among those who turned out to celebrate with his was the Bishop of Kerry, Ray Browne.
Known to all as Fr Tom, he celebrated a 50th jubilee Mass of Thanksgiving in the Prince of Peace Church before the gathering in the community centre for refreshments and entertainment to mark the landmark anniversary.
Fr Tom recently underwent surgery and will continue with treatment for the immediate future with another priest standing in for him until he is ready to resume full duties.
“I sincerely thank every person whose prayers and good wishes have greatly aided my ongoing recovery. I am confident of a return to the fullness of health thanks to all the care and support shown me,” he said,
Following his ordination in 1969, he became emigrant chaplain in Pobal Dé in Wembley in London and later served for six years in the Cork mission to Trujillo in Peru. On his return to the Kerry Diocese, Fr Tom was based for 16 years in Tralee and Ardfert, four in Tuosist and eight years in Kilcummin before he was appointed parish priest in Dingle. He was transferred to Fossa in 2015 following the retirement of Fr Brendan Harrington.
A passionate GAA man, he seldon misses a Dr Crokes or Kerry game and he travels all over the country to cheer on the black and amber and the green and gold.
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