Shepherds of the Chapel Fields (by Jim O’Hagan)

History is at its best when real people are its core concern. In the far off pre-Vatican II days before parish councils and committees came to the fore, nothing defined a Catholic parish more than the priest in charge.  Jim O’Hagan, ex-teacher and local historian, has gone back to his roots to explore the contribution to his home parish of almost 50 priests. Some are just names recorded while others are given a more detailed treatment. Although this slim volume treats the historic inner city St Malachy’s Parish in the ‘Markets’ area of Belfast, many of the pastors whose lives are recorded received their education at the College of the same name.

The book is at its best when Jim allows himself to recount his own experience and reflect on the quirks and eccentricities of men he knew. Pen portraits of interesting characters abound such as the legendary Fr James Dean, kindly Fr John MacAulay (an ex-teacher at the College and uncle of the late Fr Ambrose)) in his declining years, classically trained singer Joseph Moloney, long serving Dean Kerr and the austere Canon Peter McCann. A variety of energetic pastors are remembered – builders, scholars, social reformers, card-players, hurlers and the majority of them deeply spiritual and caring men who are well remembered in this historic Belfast parish.  

[ Shepherds of the Chapel Fields by Jim O’Hagan, Trimprint]

                                                                                                                                     G. McN