Priests, Past and Present

Current & Past Priests

Father Michael Farragher

Parish Priest of Burriscarra Parish 2013 – Current

Fr. Michael Farragher, originally from Partry, was ordained in 1996. After serving as a curate in Castlebar, he became Parish Priest of Burriscarra in 2013. He ministers in St. Patrick’s Church, Killawalla, St. Mary’s Church, Carnacon, and Ballintubber Abbey, where daily Mass is celebrated.

He is chairman of the Ballintubber Abbey Trust and actively involved in the development of the new Cultural and Heritage Visitor Centre. Known for his kind and caring manner, Fr. Michael supports families in preparing for all sacraments and is a dedicated presence in the community.

Father Frank Fahey

Curate Ballintubber Abbey, 1986-2020

Fr. Frank Fahey served as Parish Priest of Ballintubber from 1986 to 2020 and remains deeply involved in parish life during his retirement, particularly in the development of the Cultural and Heritage Visitor Centre. Originally from Ballyhaunis, he was ordained in 1973 and returned to Mayo after time in Los Angeles.

A visionary leader, Fr. Frank reestablished the ancient Tóchar Phádraig Pilgrim Path in 1987 and undertook major restoration and development projects around Ballintubber Abbey, including Church Island, the Celtic Furrow, and the Abbey’s surrounding grounds. His dedication and spiritual leadership continue to inspire the community.

Father Stephen Ludden

Curate Ballintubber Abbey, 1974-1986

Fr. Stephen Ludden (1928–2008), originally from Clifden, was ordained in 1953 and served faithfully in several parishes throughout his ministry. He spent twelve impactful years in Ballintubber (1974–1986), where he worked closely with youth and the wider community, helping to establish many local clubs and initiatives that enriched parish life.

Fr. Stephen was also known for his deep care for Irish emigrants, where he maintained strong connections with communities in London and Birmingham. Later appointed Parish Priest of Clonbur, he was made a Canon in 1998.

Gentle, humble, and deeply respected, Fr. Stephen continued to serve and support his community long after his retirement in 2003.

Father Thomas Egan

Very Reverend Thomas Egan, Parish Priest, 1959 – 1974

Ordained on 23rd June 1935, Fr. Thomas Egan served as Parish Priest of Ballintubber from 1959 to 1974. He oversaw the restoration of the Nave of Ballintubber Abbey, completed in 1967, in time for the Abbey’s 750th anniversary celebrations in 1966.

Remembered as a man of faith and vision, Fr. Egan helped secure the Abbey’s place as a national symbol of resilience and renewal. He is buried in the cemetery at Ballintubber Abbey, near the sacred place he lovingly restored.

Father Loftus

Bio coming soon…

Curates from 1801

Curates that served in Ballintubber Abbey from the 1800’s.

This information was provided from Diocesan Office files from the Archdiocese of Tuam.

Experience Ballintubber Abbey

Journey through time and faith at Ballintubber Abbey. Explore its captivating history and architecture on a guided tour, or embrace serenity on a pilgrimage walk, connecting with centuries of tradition.