Welcome / Fáilte Romhat!
Welcome to the website of the Franciscan Friary in Multyfarnham, Co Westmeath, in the midlands of Ireland.
The Franciscan Abbey here in Multyfarnham was founded in 1269 and continues to be an active centre of Franciscan mission in Ireland. The only Franciscan Abbey in Ireland still andings on the footprint of its original foundation, the Franciscan fraternity here continues its commitment of service from this special place.
We regret to advise that our webcam service has been disrupted since the recent Storm Éowyn. We are currently awaiting repair and we hope to have it up and running as soon as possible. However, please be advised that this may not be until February 11 at the earliest. We aploogise for any inconvenience and thank you for your ongoing support.
Upcoming Events

Perpetual Novena to St Anthony
Our perpetual Novena to St Anthony of Padua continues every Tuesday evening at 8:00pm
We have Mass, including the Novena Prayers, and we conclude by blessing with a relic of St Anthony.
All are welcome and we look forward to seeing you here!
Latest Posts
Multyfarnham and 1798
In this segment, Paschal Sweeney tells us more of the history of the Friary at Multyfarnham, looking particularly at the time of the Rebellion of 1798.
In 1798, political unrest in Ireland reached Multyfarnham, Co. Westmeath. United Irishmen, seeking to support General Humbert, attacked Wilson’s Hospital for weapons. The Warden, initially hostile, was taken prisoner but spared after Fr. Moran intervened.
By 1799, relations between the Church and government improved. The Franciscan friars of Multyfarnham faced declining numbers, with only three in 1800. Despite this, they maintained their traditions.
In 1813, traveler Atkinson described the friary’s humble, simple life, reflecting the enduring faith and poverty of the friars, which survived despite the challenges of the era.
Sealed Orders
As we enter the new year, it’s important to ensure our resolutions align with God’s will, specifically our unique calling as disciples of Jesus. For his reflection, Fr Kieran is inspired by Agnes Sanford’s idea of “sealed orders” in her autobiography of the same name.
Kieran explores how prayer, sacraments, and loved ones help us uncover our divine mission. Just as Hannah, Samuel, and Jesus were guided, we too must remain open to God’s direction, which may evolve throughout our lives.
The example of Simeon, Anna, and other figures shows that God continually reveals new purposes, urging us to fulfil His plan through prayer, devotion, and the support of those around us.