I write to congratulate members of the noble Clan of Mac Conmara, who recently celebrated their first clan hosting since the seventeenth century.  As Minister General of the Franciscan Order, it is a special pleasure, indeed an obligation, to salute the descendants of Síoda Cam Mac Conmara, who in 1402 erected the cloisters of Quin Abbey in the County of Clare.

The great historian of the Franciscan Order, Luke Wadding, refers to this event in his annals as follows: "Conventus de Coinhe fabricatus ab illustri familia de Cloinmicna Marra, loco amoeno ad ripam praeterlabentis rivuli [vol. VIII, 57 .xxiv] (The Friary of Quin was built by the illustrious family of Clan MacNamara in a pleasant setting by the banks of a little stream which glides by its walls."

Wadding also recalls a Papal Letter, entitled "Piis Fidelium Votis" and dated October 10, 1433, concerning Quin Abbey [vol. X, 255 .xxi].  It was addressed to "Macson [=Mahon] Macnamara, Duke of Clandcullyan," and commended him for his generosity to the Franciscan Friars of the Regular Observance in Quin.  Incidentally, Wadding remarks that he had never heard of the title "Duke" being held by an Irish nobleman, and wondered if it was passed on in the McNamara family.  I wonder if there was any Duke McNamara in your noble gathering?

There is one remarkable fact concerning Quin Abbey which I would regard as a parable -- one might even hope a prophecy -- for today.  The friary is built upon the ruins of a castle-fortress: the house of peace and hospitality replaced the symbol of war and enmity.  Even though the abbey was subsequently itself brought low, it lives today as a reminder and a symbol of peace, lovingly cared for and revered as a holy place.  Would that swords everywhere were beaten into ploughshares and that bitterness and strife might melt away and be replaced by the bonds of friendship in such a meeting place of peace.

In this context, permit me to remember an outstanding member of your Clan, one of the glories of your long history: the late Archbishop Kevin McNamara.  He was a gentle pastor and a servant of his people, a lover of peace and a friend of God.  The words of scripture in praise of Moses are fittingly applied to him: "A godly man who found favour in the sight of all, and was beloved by God and his people, whose memory is held in benediction" Méadú ar a ghlóir sna flaithis!

I am sure members of the MacNamara clan are proud today of the achievements of those who have gone before you, some many centuries ago, and some, like Archbishop Kevin, in recent years.  Cherish your heritage and strive to add your own glowing page to the annals of the MacNamaras.  May the peace of Saint Francis of Assisi, whose sons you have sheltered and whose protection you may claim as a family right, enfold you.

As his successor, I impart to you, successors of Síoda and Mahon Mac Conmara, the favourite blessing Saint Francis prayed over his brothers and friends: it is taken from the book of Deuteronomy:

May the Lord bless and keep you;

May the Holy One be merciful to you;

May the Face of Love shine on you and give you peace!

Brother Giacomo Bini

O.F.M.

Minister General of the Franciscan Order

Rome