Thomas MacKenna, class '39
Where are they now
THOMAS MACKENNA, the Union Vice President of Ulster, on September 14th 1997, was conferred as a Knight of the Pontifical Equestrian Order of Saint Sylvester in appreciation for his caring activities over many years in relation to Church and social affairs. The Order of the Saint Sylvester was instituted by Pope Gregory XVI in 1841 and reaffirmed by St. Pius X in 1905.
The ceremony was celebrated by the most Reverend Francis J. MacKiernan DD Bishop of Kilmore, with Reverend Msgr P.J. McManus P.P.VG and Rev Anthony Fagan C.C. acting as Concelebrants. The very Reverend Fr. Kevin O'Shea C.M. President of Castleknock College also participated in the Ceremony. Vincent Gallagher KSG KCHS and Charles Kelly KCSS KHS acted as Sponsors.
Charles Kelly, Fr Kevin O'Shea and Thomas McKenna
The large attendance of honoured guests at the Investiture included Kathleen, Tom's wife, sons Mannix (Class of 71) and Tomas (Class of 83) and daughters Lily and Marie. Also present was the Chairman of the Cavan Urban Council and representatives from all the Professional and business interests in the Town including the Former Minister, Mr Tom Fitzpatrick and his wife.
Joe Clarke and David Bell, fellow Castleknock students with Tom during his years at Castleknock were also present.
Following the ceremony the McKenna family hosted a beautiful meal at the Slieve Russell Hotel at Ballyconnell where Tom's Investiture was suitably sealed.