Archbishop Micheal Neary celebrates golden jubilee of his ordination

The Archbishop of Tuam, Dr. Michael Neary, has celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.

Archbishop Michael Neary was born on April 15, 1946, in Castlebar and grew up at Blackfort in the town.

He received his early education at St. Patrick’s Boys National School, Castlebar and St. Jarlath’s College, Tuam.

He then studied at St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth, and was ordained to the priesthood on June 17, 1971.

Earning a doctorate in Divinity in 1975, he served as a curate in Belclare for one year, before being appointed to the staff at the Presentation College, Headford.

From 1978 to 1981, he furthered his studies at the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome, earning a licentiate of Sacred Scripture.

During that time he was also spiritual director at the Pontifical Irish College.

On his return he joined the staff at Holy Rosary College, Mountbellew, and served as a curate in Moylough.

In 1982 he was appointed lecturer in Sacred Scripture at St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth, becoming professor of New Testament in 1991.

On May 20, 1992, Archbishop Michael Neary was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Tuam and Titular Bishop of Quaestoriana by Pope John Paul II.

He received his episcopal consecration on the following September 13 from Archbishop Joseph Cassidy, with Archbishops Emanuele Gerada and Joseph Cunnane serving as co-consecrators.

He was named Archbishop of Tuam on January 17, 1995.

Castlebar Councillor Ger Deere has joined in paying tribute to Dr. Neary on his milestone.