What is the official Latin name for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Armagh?

The official Latin name for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Armagh is Archidioecesis Armachana.

What are the Irish and Latin names for the Archdiocese of Armagh?

The Irish name for the Archdiocese of Armagh is Ard-Deoise Ard Mhacha, and its Latin name is Archidioecesis Armachana.

In which two countries is the territory of the Archdiocese of Armagh located?

The territory of the Archdiocese of Armagh is situated across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

What is the geographical extent of the Archdiocese of Armagh?

The Archdiocese of Armagh covers County Louth, the majority of County Armagh, and portions of County Tyrone, County Londonderry, and County Meath.

What is the total area covered by the Archdiocese of Armagh?

The Archdiocese of Armagh encompasses an area of 3,472 square kilometers, which is equivalent to 1,341 square miles.

According to 2018 data, what was the total population and the Catholic population within the Archdiocese of Armagh?

As of 2018, the total population within the Archdiocese of Armagh was approximately 348,000, with 242,860 individuals, representing 69.8% of the total, identifying as Catholic.

How many parishes are currently part of the Archdiocese of Armagh?

The Archdiocese of Armagh is organized into 61 parishes.

Where is the headquarters of the Archdiocese of Armagh situated?

The headquarters of the Archdiocese of Armagh is located at Ara Coeli in Armagh.

Which cathedral serves as the principal church for the Archdiocese of Armagh?

St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Cathedral in Armagh functions as the mother church for the Archdiocese.

Who are recognized as the patron saints of the Archdiocese of Armagh?

The patron saints honored by the Archdiocese of Armagh are Saint Patrick, Saint Malachy, and Saint Oliver Plunkett.

What is the significance of the Archbishop of Armagh within the hierarchy of the Catholic Church in Ireland?

The Archbishop of Armagh serves as the metropolitan bishop for the ecclesiastical province of Armagh and holds the distinguished title of Primate of All Ireland, signifying the highest-ranking prelate in the Irish Catholic hierarchy.

Who founded the Archdiocese of Armagh, and approximately when was it established?

The Archdiocese of Armagh was founded by Saint Patrick around 445 AD, establishing it as the principal ecclesiastical see in Ireland.

How did the Archdiocese of Armagh formally achieve its status as a metropolitan province?

The Archdiocese of Armagh was formally recognized as a metropolitan province in 1152 during the Synod of Kells, which affirmed its ecclesiastical preeminence.

Who is the current Archbishop of Armagh, and when did he assume this role?

The current Archbishop of Armagh is Eamon Martin, who has held the position since 2024.

What are the four ecclesiastical provinces that comprise the Roman Catholic Church in Ireland?

The four ecclesiastical provinces that make up the Roman Catholic Church in Ireland are Armagh, Dublin, Tuam, and Cashel.

Which counties are included within the geographical jurisdiction of the Province of Armagh?

The Province of Armagh's territory spans parts of County Armagh, County Londonderry, and County Tyrone in Northern Ireland, along with parts of County Louth and most of County Meath in the Republic of Ireland.

Can you name some of the major towns and cities located within the Province of Armagh?

The Province of Armagh encompasses the city of Armagh and significant towns such as Ardee, Coalisland, Cookstown, Drogheda, Dundalk, Dungannon, and Magherafelt.

What are the suffragan dioceses that fall under the jurisdiction of the Metropolitan Province of Armagh?

The suffragan dioceses under the Metropolitan Province of Armagh include Ardagh and Clonmacnoise, Clogher, Derry, Down and Connor, Dromore, Kilmore, Meath, and Raphoe.

What was the historical significance of the hill known as Ard-Macha in the founding of the Archdiocese?

Ard-Macha, meaning the Height of Macha, was the specific location where Saint Patrick established his metropolitan see, building a stone church and a monastery there.

What does the text suggest about the early role of the Archbishop of Armagh in resolving complex religious issues?

According to canons from a synod held by St. Patrick around 448 AD, difficult matters of conscience were to be brought before the Archbishop of Armagh, and if they were too complex for him and his advisors, they were to be referred to the Apostolic See in Rome.

What was the practice known as the 'Cattlecess' or 'Law of St. Patrick'?

The 'Cattlecess,' also referred to as the 'Law of St. Patrick,' was a custom where the primates of Armagh conducted visitations across the country to collect dues, a practice that persisted until the arrival of the Cambro-Normans.

How is the Book of Armagh connected to the primate's collection practices?

The Book of Armagh contains a record, written in the hand of Brian Boru's chaplain, documenting Brian Boru's royal sanction in 1006 for the primate's collection activities.

What historical adversities did the city of Armagh and its ecclesiastical structures face?

Armagh endured significant hardships, including seventeen recorded instances of the city being partially or totally burned, numerous plundering raids by Danish invaders, and destruction during the Cambro-Norman conquest of Ulster.

How did lay individuals interfere with the primacy of Armagh during the 11th century?

During the 11th century, chiefs from the tribe whose territory included Armagh usurped the position and financial benefits of the primacy, while fulfilling the ecclesiastical duties through appointed deputies.

Who was Cellach (St. Celsus), and what role did he play in the history of the primacy?

Cellach, known as St. Celsus, served as the Archbishop of Armagh from 1105 to 1129. Despite initially being intruded into the position as a layman, he was consecrated as a bishop and governed the see with considerable wisdom, working towards reforms.

What significant outcome resulted from the Synod of Kells held in 1152?

The Synod of Kells in 1152, overseen by Cardinal Paparo, resulted in the formal establishment of four metropolitan provinces in Ireland, with the Archbishop of Armagh receiving his pallium and new metropolitan sees being created for Dublin, Cashel, and Tuam.

What controversy emerged between the Archbishops of Armagh and Dublin following a papal bull issued by Pope Lucius III?

A papal bull, requested by the Archbishop of Dublin, John Comyn, led to a prolonged dispute concerning the Archbishop of Armagh's traditional primatial rights, specifically the right to carry his cross publicly and to preside over ecclesiastical cases within the Diocese of Dublin.

How did English monarchs influence episcopal appointments in Armagh during the period of the Lordship of Ireland (1215–1539)?

During the Lordship of Ireland, English kings began to assert influence over the election of bishops, leading to conflicts such as the dispute between King John and Pope Innocent III concerning the election of Eugene MacGillaweer to the primatial see.

What contributions did Primate Patrick O'Scanlan make to the Archdiocese of Armagh?

Primate Patrick O'Scanlan, who was a Dominican, undertook significant rebuilding efforts for the cathedral in Armagh and also founded a monastery for Franciscans within the city.

Why did many primates choose to reside outside of Armagh during the English period?

During the English period, primates often resided away from Armagh, preferring the arch-episcopal manors located in Dromiskin and Termonfechan, which were situated within the area known as the Pale, controlled by the English administration.

What was the fate of Archbishop Richard Creagh during the English Reformation?

Archbishop Richard Creagh was arrested, imprisoned in the Tower of London, and subjected to examination, ultimately remaining in captivity until his death.

Describe the circumstances of Archbishop Peter Lombard's tenure.

Archbishop Peter Lombard, who held the position from 1601 to 1625, spent his entire time in exile in Rome and consequently never visited his diocese in Armagh.

What was Archbishop Hugh O'Reilly's stance during the Irish Rebellion of 1641?

Archbishop Hugh O'Reilly convened a synod in Kells in 1642, which officially declared the war being waged by the Irish as both lawful and pious. He also served as a member of the Supreme Council governing the Irish Confederation of Kilkenny.

What significant challenges did Archbishop Edmund O'Reilly face during his time as primate?

Archbishop Edmund O'Reilly endured extreme difficulties, spending only two years of his twelve-year tenure within the diocese, often living in hiding in rural areas and sleeping on rudimentary bedding. He was also exiled on four separate occasions.

What was the core issue in the dispute between Archbishop Oliver Plunkett and Archbishop Peter Talbot regarding primatial rights?

The central conflict involved Archbishop Plunkett defending the ancient primatial rights of Armagh against claims asserted by Archbishop Peter Talbot of Dublin. This led to public debates and publications, including Plunkett's *Jus Primatiale* and Talbot's *Primatus Dublinensis*.

What were the specific accusations leveled against Oliver Plunkett that led to his execution?

Oliver Plunkett was accused of plotting to facilitate the landing of 20,000 French soldiers in Ireland and of collecting funds from his clergy to support an armed uprising against the Crown.

Where is the preserved head of Saint Oliver Plunkett located today?

The head of Saint Oliver Plunkett, remarkably well-preserved, is displayed in St. Peter's church on West Street in Drogheda.

What hardships did Archbishop Hugh MacMahon endure during the Penal Times?

Archbishop Hugh MacMahon lived under severe persecution during the Penal Times, forcing him to constantly move, conduct religious services outdoors, and live in hiding to avoid detection.

What was notable about Richard O'Reilly's tenure as primate in the late 18th century?

Richard O'Reilly was the first Catholic prelate since the English Revolution to possess sufficient personal wealth to live comfortably according to his status. He was known for his peacemaking efforts and initiated the construction of Saint Peter's Church in Drogheda, which became a pro-cathedral.

What significant historical development did Archbishop Patrick Curtis witness during his time?

Archbishop Patrick Curtis lived to see the achievement of Catholic emancipation in the United Kingdom and had previously met the Duke of Wellington while serving as rector of the Irish College in Salamanca during the Peninsular War.

What was historically significant about Archbishop William Crolly's decision to reside in Armagh?

William Crolly was the first Catholic primate to establish his residence in Armagh and conduct episcopal duties from the city since the implementation of the Penal Laws.

How long did the construction of St. Patrick's Cathedral in Armagh take to complete?

The construction of St. Patrick's Cathedral in Armagh was a lengthy process, taking over sixty years from the laying of the foundation stone in 1840 until its completion.

What was the significance of the National Synod of Thurles held in 1850?

Presided over by Paul Cullen, the National Synod of Thurles marked the first synod convened in Ireland since 1642, representing a significant moment for the governance of the Catholic Church in the country.

What unique distinction did Cardinal Michael Logue achieve during his time as Primate of Armagh?

Cardinal Michael Logue was the first Primate of Armagh to be appointed as a member of the College of Cardinals.

Approximately how much financial investment was made in St. Patrick's Cathedral under Cardinal Logue's leadership?

Cardinal Logue oversaw expenditures exceeding £50,000 for the enhancement and completion of St. Patrick's Cathedral, covering aspects like the sacristy, library, interior decorations, and the acquisition of the site.

When was the Redemptoris Mater Seminary officially inaugurated in Dundalk?

The Redemptoris Mater Seminary was officially opened in Dundalk, County Louth, in the year 2016.

What is the operational affiliation of the Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Dundalk?

The Redemptoris Mater Seminary operates under the guidance and auspices of the Neocatechumenal Way.

Where do the seminarians from the Redemptoris Mater Seminary pursue their higher theological education?

Seminarians attending the Redemptoris Mater Seminary undertake their philosophical and theological studies at Maynooth College.

What types of Theology programs are offered in Armagh and Dundalk through a collaboration between the diocese and Maynooth College?

Starting in 2019, the Armagh Diocese, in partnership with St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, began offering Certificate, Diploma, and Degree programs in Theology, with a focus on Adult Education and Pastoral Ministry.

Who is currently listed as the Archbishop of Armagh?

Eamon Martin is listed as the current Archbishop of Armagh, having held the position since 2014.

What related topics are suggested for further reading concerning the Archdiocese of Armagh?

Suggested related topics include Roman Catholicism in Ireland, lists of Catholic dioceses in Northern Ireland and alphabetically, lists of Catholic archdioceses, and information on the Apostolic Nuncio to Ireland.

Roman Catholic Archdiocese Of Armagh Wiki: The Primacy of Armagh: An Ecclesiological and Historical Examination

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Archdiocese Overview

Primatial See of Ireland

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Armagh stands as the Latin ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Catholic Church in Northern Ireland. Its ordinary, the Archbishop of Armagh, holds the esteemed title of Primate of All Ireland, signifying the highest ecclesiastical rank within the Irish Catholic hierarchy. This archdiocese is not merely a regional entity but the historical and spiritual heart of Irish Catholicism.

Geographic and Ecclesial Scope

The province's remit extends across both political jurisdictions of the island: Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. It encompasses significant portions of counties Armagh, Louth, Tyrone, Londonderry, and Meath. This strategic positioning underscores its historical importance and ongoing pastoral reach.

Historical Foundation

Founded by Saint Patrick himself around 445 AD, the Archdiocese of Armagh is recognized as the principal see of Irish Christianity. Its claim to primatial status is deeply rooted in this apostolic foundation. The Synod of Kells in 1152 formally established it as a metropolitan province, solidifying its preeminence.

Key Archdiocesan Data

Archdiocesan Statistics and Information

The following table provides a detailed overview of the Archdiocese of Armagh, including its geographical scope, population statistics, and administrative structure.

Archdiocese of Armagh Archidioecesis Armachana Ard-Deoise Ard Mhacha

St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Cathedral, Armagh
Location
Country	Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland
Territory	County Louth, most of County Armagh and parts of counties Tyrone, Londonderry and Meath
Ecclesiastical province	Armagh
Headquarters	Ara Coeli, Armagh
Coordinates	54°20′53″N 6°39′22″W / 54.348°N 6.656°W / 54.348; -6.656
Statistics
Area	3,472 km² (1,341 sq mi)
Population Total Catholics	(as of 2018) 348,000 242,860 (69.8%)
Parishes	61
Information
Denomination	Catholic
Sui iuris church	Latin Church
Rite	Roman Rite
Established	445 (As Diocese) 1152 (As Archdiocese)
Cathedral	St Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh
Patron saint	St Patrick St Malachy St Oliver Plunkett
Secular priests	138
Current leadership
Pope	Leo XIV
Archbishop	Eamon Martin
Auxiliary Bishops	Michael Router
Vicar General	Mgr Colum Curry Dean Kevin Donaghy Canon Eugene Sweeney
Episcopal Vicars	Fr Malachy Conlon Mgr James Carroll Fr Gerard Campbell Canon Benedict Fee
Judicial Vicar	Canon Michael Toner
Bishops emeritus	Seán Brady
Map

Website
armagharchdiocese.org

A Chronicle of Faith: Ecclesiastical History

Foundation and Early Centuries

The Archdiocese traces its origins to Saint Patrick's establishment of a monastery and his metropolitan see on the hill of Armagh circa 445 AD. This site rapidly evolved into a renowned center of learning, attracting thousands of scholars and housing various religious orders, including the Culdees. The primacy of Armagh was recognized early on, with difficult cases referred to Rome, and its influence was challenged only by the southern center of Cashel.

Primatial Disputes and Reforms

Centuries saw the primacy contested, notably by laymen in the 11th century, a practice condemned by St. Bernard. The 12th century brought significant reforms under figures like St. Celsus and St. Malachy. The Synod of Kells in 1152 formalized Armagh's status as a metropolitan province, granting its archbishop a pallium and establishing new metropolitan sees.

Lordship and Anglo-Norman Influence

During the period of the Lordship of Ireland (1215–1539), Armagh faced challenges from Anglo-Norman incursions and royal interference in episcopal elections. Despite these pressures, prelates like Primate Reginald and Primate Patrick O'Scanlan worked to consolidate the see's territory and influence, with O'Scanlan notably rebuilding the cathedral and founding a Franciscan house.

Reformation and Penal Times

The English Reformation introduced significant upheaval. The see navigated periods of deposition and succession disputes, with figures like Robert Wauchope and George Dowdall playing roles amidst religious shifts. The subsequent Penal Times imposed severe restrictions, forcing primates and clergy into hiding, exile, and constant struggle to maintain pastoral care, often under perilous conditions.

Modernization and Resilience

The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed a gradual return to stability and growth. Primates like William Crolly initiated the construction of the current St. Patrick's Cathedral, and figures like Cardinal Logue oversaw its completion and beautification. The Archdiocese continued to adapt, with modern developments including the establishment of the Redemptoris Mater Seminary and the expansion of theological programs.

Ecclesiastical Province of Armagh

Geographic and Administrative Remit

The Province of Armagh is one of the four ecclesiastical provinces of the Roman Catholic Church in Ireland. Its territory strategically spans both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, covering significant areas of Armagh, Louth, Tyrone, Londonderry, and Meath. This broad remit reflects its historical and pastoral importance across diverse regions.

Suffragan Dioceses

As the metropolitan see, Armagh oversees several suffragan dioceses within its province. These dioceses share in the ecclesiastical governance and pastoral mission under the guidance of the Archbishop of Armagh.

Diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnoise
Diocese of Clogher
Diocese of Derry
Diocese of Down and Connor
Diocese of Dromore
Diocese of Kilmore
Diocese of Meath
Diocese of Raphoe

Redemptoris Mater Seminary

Formation for Ministry

Established in Dundalk, County Louth, the Redemptoris Mater Seminary serves as a vital House of Formation within the Archdiocese. Founded in 2012 and officially opened in 2016, it operates under the auspices of the Neocatechumenal Way, preparing seminarians for priestly ministry.

Academic and Spiritual Development

Seminarians at Redemptoris Mater engage in rigorous philosophical and theological studies, often traveling to Maynooth College for advanced coursework. The seminary has seen its first ordinations and continues to expand, reflecting a commitment to nurturing future clergy for the Archdiocese and beyond.

Adult Faith Programmes

Theological Education

In collaboration with St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, the Armagh Diocese offers Certificate, Diploma, and Degree programs in Theology, focusing on Adult Education and Pastoral Ministry. These courses are available in Armagh and Dundalk, providing accessible pathways for theological learning.

Diaconate Studies

The Archdiocese also participates in Maynooth's Diploma in Diaconate Studies program, further supporting the formation and ongoing education of clergy and lay leaders within the Catholic community. This initiative highlights a commitment to lifelong learning and spiritual growth.

Current and Past Leadership

Archbishops and Bishops

The Archdiocese is guided by its Archbishop, supported by auxiliary bishops and various vicars. The list below highlights recent and notable figures who have led the Archdiocese, including the current Archbishop Eamon Martin.

Michael Kieran (1867–1869)
Daniel McGettigan (1870–1887)
Cardinal Michael Logue (1887–1924)
Cardinal Patrick O'Donnell (1924–1927)
Cardinal Joseph MacRory (1928–1945)
Cardinal John D'Alton (1946–1963)
Cardinal William Conway (1963–1977)
Cardinal Tomás Ó Fiaich (1977–1990)
Cardinal Cahal Daly (1990–1996)
Cardinal Seán Brady (1996–2014)
Eamon Martin (2014 – present)

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References

New Armagh seminary is blessed by Cian Molloy, catholicireland.net, 26 November 2018.

Redemptoris Mater Seminary, Dundalk Co. Louth

Support Neocatechumenal Way in Ireland.

Redemptoris Mater house of formation, Dundalk, Diocese of Armagh (Ireland)

Affiliated Programmes Kalendarium (2020â2021), St. Patrick's College, Maynooth.

Theology Programme Armagh Diocesan Pastoral Plan.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Armagh Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be entirely comprehensive, up-to-date, or reflect the most current ecclesiastical or historical interpretations.

This is not ecclesiastical or historical advice. The information provided is not a substitute for consultation with qualified religious scholars, historians, or church officials. Always refer to official Church documents and consult with experts for definitive guidance.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Primacy of Armagh

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Archdiocese Overview ℹ️

👑 Primatial See of Ireland

🌍 Geographic and Ecclesial Scope

🏛️ Historical Foundation

Key Archdiocesan Data 📊

🗂️ Archdiocesan Statistics and Information

A Chronicle of Faith: Ecclesiastical History ⏳

✝️ Foundation and Early Centuries

⚔️ Primatial Disputes and Reforms

👑 Lordship and Anglo-Norman Influence

📜 Reformation and Penal Times

📈 Modernization and Resilience

Ecclesiastical Province of Armagh 🗺️

📍 Geographic and Administrative Remit

🔗 Suffragan Dioceses

Redemptoris Mater Seminary 🎓

🏫 Formation for Ministry

📚 Academic and Spiritual Development

Adult Faith Programmes 💡

📖 Theological Education

👨‍🏫 Diaconate Studies

Current and Past Leadership 👤

👨‍💼 Archbishops and Bishops

Related Topics 🔗

➡️ Further Exploration

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Archdiocese Overview

Primatial See of Ireland

Geographic and Ecclesial Scope

Historical Foundation

Key Archdiocesan Data

Archdiocesan Statistics and Information

A Chronicle of Faith: Ecclesiastical History

Foundation and Early Centuries

Primatial Disputes and Reforms

Lordship and Anglo-Norman Influence

Reformation and Penal Times

Modernization and Resilience

Ecclesiastical Province of Armagh

Geographic and Administrative Remit

Suffragan Dioceses

Redemptoris Mater Seminary

Formation for Ministry

Academic and Spiritual Development

Adult Faith Programmes

Theological Education

Diaconate Studies

Current and Past Leadership

Archbishops and Bishops

Related Topics

Further Exploration

Teacher's Corner

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Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice