More than 100 Old Clongownians who left Clongowes over 40 years ago gathered at the College on 10 June for the annual Fr Peter Kenney Day celebration. The occasion also provided an opportunity for reunion celebrations, with 14 members of the OC’61 class and 10 members of the OC’56 class in attendance.
Guests began arriving from 10.00am, before gathering for Mass in the Boys’ Chapel at 11.00am. The Mass was celebrated by Fr Sheil and enhanced by the wonderful singing of Hugo O’Donnell OC’19.
The guest speaker in the People’s Church was Judge Fergal Gaynor OC’89, who spoke eloquently about his work at the International Criminal Court and its vital role in protecting non-combatants during armed conflict through the prosecution of those responsible for war crimes. His thought-provoking talk, Shattered Lives: Combatting Impunity for Atrocity Crimes, offered fascinating insight into the work of the Court and the human stories behind its cases. Fergal’s commitment to justice and human dignity truly reflects the values and ideals that Fr Peter Kenney sought to instil in every Clongownian.
Following the talk, guests enjoyed a superb lunch prepared by the Clongowes catering team before taking the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and tour the College grounds.
We look forward to welcoming Old Clongownians back to the College on 16 June 2027 for next year’s Fr Peter Kenney Day celebration.
