Roscommon-born priest, Fr. Gerry O’Rourke, was honoured at the Irish Consulate in San Francisco last month for his contribution to the advancement of peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland and to the empowerment of leaders of faith communities.
The Ballyfarnon native, who spent most of his childhood in Roscommon town, was honoured by the Consul General of Ireland, Robert O’Driscoll, and the Mastery Foundation at a reception on February 16th.
The Mastery Foundation has worked for the past two decades in the area of reconciliation in Northern Ireland. Executive Director of the foundation, Ann Overton read a number of testimonials from community leaders in Northern Ireland who have been touched by the work of the Mastery Foundation and by Fr. Gerry’s contribution.
Ms. Overton also read a letter from Roscommon town parish priest, Fr. John Cullen, who spoke about the positive effect Fr. Gerry had had on his own work.
Following further tributes from the Consul General, Robert O’Driscoll, and Reverend Patricia McBride from Newry, Fr. Gerry himself had the final word of the evening, recounting his journey from the football fields of Ballyfarnon in Roscommon to being celebrated at the Irish Consulate in San Francisco.
