Since their first arrival in Glasgow in 1472 (under the lead of Father James Muirhead) and the building of the city friary in 1876, the Franciscan order had then soon become an important part of Glasgow`s religious community, serving as both teachers and carers to the many poor and sick within the community. Following the cruel destruction, during the reformation, of their first friary the Franciscans made a return to the city in the year 1868 when they set up home by opening a small chapel in Hutchesontown, Gorbals. Now recent events, during the development at the site for the future City Science Centre near High Street have once more highlighted the Franciscans important historic link to our cities roots. The remains of twenty followers (or benefactors) of St. Francis were discovered during an archaeological excavation which was a main planning condition for the future City Science site. Along with the remains was also uncovered the original deep well of the Friary, which even until now was found to be a perfectly hand carved circle of stones, the well itself to become a key feature in the planned mediaeval garden to be created on the north
edge of the site, near to George Street.
edge of the site, near to George Street.
Following a mass lead by Archbishop of Glasgow, Mario Conti at St. Andrews Cathedral. The historic remains were respectfully taken
on the short distance across to the Southern Necropolis for the graveside committal by Rev. Patrick Lonsdale, OFM. Guardian of the
Glasgow Franciscan Friary in the Gorbals, home to the Franciscan order for over 150 years. With their strong links to the Gorbals, the recent re-interment within the Southern Necropolis of those who once helped support them
in their cause is a fitting tribute and unique piece in the historic jigsaw of our fair city. Laid to rest among so many contributors to Glasgow`s rich heritage and in a cemetery that like the Franciscans themselves, holding no social boundaries, they are in the company of fellow Glaswegians spanning from mill workers to merchants. May they rest in peace.
on the short distance across to the Southern Necropolis for the graveside committal by Rev. Patrick Lonsdale, OFM. Guardian of the
Glasgow Franciscan Friary in the Gorbals, home to the Franciscan order for over 150 years. With their strong links to the Gorbals, the recent re-
in their cause is a fitting tribute and unique piece in the historic jigsaw of our fair city. Laid to rest among so many contributors to Glasgow`s rich heritage and in a cemetery that like the Franciscans themselves, holding no social boundaries, they are in the company of fellow Glaswegians spanning from mill workers to merchants. May they rest in peace.
FRANCISCAN REINTERMENT
