The Wichita Irish Cultural Association and Newman University will sponsor an appearance by Irish storyteller Eamonn O’Conghaile Friday, Aug. 13 in the Jabara Flexible Theatre in Newman’s De Mattias Fine Arts Center. O’Conghaile, affectionately called Father Eddie, is an Irish Catholic priest who came late to the priesthood after raising a family. In addition to being a priest and Irish speaker, he is a master seanachie, or storyteller.
The event begins at 1 p.m. with music by the popular local Irish band “Raging Sea.” Fr. O’Conghaile’s talk and storytelling will be from 2 to 3:30 p.m. and will include questions and answers. A social will be held at 4 p.m.
Fr. O’Conghaile will share stories of his journey to the priesthood which began in his sixties, following the death of his beloved wife. Fr. O’Conghaile has spoken all over Ireland and England and as far away as New Zealand, telling traditional stories in the Irish oral tradition. The event is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted for the musicians and for Fr. O’Conghaile’s meditation garden at his church in Tierna’, Ireland, called the “Star of the Sea.” For more information, call Julie at 316-652-9382 or Mike at 316-204-4036. No reservations are required.
