Fr. Moore's Well Celebrates 200th Anniversary This Sunday

Wednesday, 12 August 2026 at 14:30

By Tara Flanagan

Bishop Denis Nulty will concelebrate Mass at the well at 3.00 pm

This Sunday August 16th, marks the 200th anniversary of the death of Fr. John Moore. It is one of the events listed as part of Heritage Week.

Fr. Moore was born in 1779 and was ordained to the priesthood in 1803 and was known for effecting cures for various ailments.

Fr. Moore's well, located on the Rathbride Road between the Curragh and Milltown has become a place of pilgrimage, prayer and reflection.

To mark this special occasion, Bishop Denis Nulty will concelebrate Mass at the well at 3.00 pm.

A shuttle service for cars will operate from Milltown and Rathbride Cross to facilitate the numbers expected for this special occasion.

Heritage Week 2026 has the theme ‘Heritage At Risk’, something organisers say is particularly relevant to Fr. Moore’s Well, which is in need of significant restoration work.

A GoFundMe page has been set up whereby all funds raised will go towards repairs at the site, including new gates, resurfacing the road and landscaping. There are also plans to create a pathway to the ruins of Fr. Moore’s House and restore the traditional pilgrimage way.

The aim is to preserve the historic site for future generations, while maintaining its role as a place of faith, reflection and hope.

Speaking to Kfm, organising committee member Betty O'Shea explained about Fr. Moore's meeting with the bishop: