Glasgow church makes 'difficult' change as three priests leave city

A “special” Glasgow church is undergoing a major “difficult” change as a much loved Catholic order is withdrawing from the parish.

Three priests will leave the John Duns Scotus chapel as the Irish Franciscans who have been in the Gorbals since 1866 prepare to depart.

Parishioner Joseph McCauley said he is “devastated” by the news and explained the chapel is home to a very special weekly novena where people can call in with their problems for prayers.

Now the care of the parish is to be handed back to the Glasgow Archdiocese, which said the building will remain open.

However Joseph said he worries where people will go if the weekly novena at the “active” church does not continue.

Joseph said: “The issue is the possible end of a Franciscan presence in Scotland.

“The Gorbals has a particularly strong historic Irish Catholic connection, with the Franciscans becoming deeply embedded in the community over generations.”

The 34-year-old added: “This isn’t just any parish. It has a huge Franciscan history and has served the Gorbals for generations. The St Anthony Novena, the welcome, the prayer and the care for people who are lonely or struggling are all part of what makes this place so special.”

“I’m genuinely heartbroken at the thought of losing the Franciscan presence here. Whatever happens next, I desperately hope the Catholic community is served well.”

He pointed out the “Franciscans also have a connection with St Francis’ school, providing priestly and pastoral support.”

Explaining more about the Novena, the 34-year-old said: “The Tuesday St Anthony Novena is particularly significant locally and attracts people bringing petitions and prayers.

“People come with prayers concerning illness, mental health, family difficulties, bereavement and other personal circumstances.

“I genuinely worry about where some of the desperate, lonely and needy people who come through those doors will go if that ministry disappears.”

A letter sent to parishioners said: “After much consideration and taking into account the current reality of the Province of Ireland, we the Irish Franciscans, must today announce our withdrawal from Blessed John Duns Scotus Parish in Glasgow and the handing back of the care and pastoral responsibility of the parish to the ArchDiocese. This is a sad and difficult decision for us to make. However, it is unavoidable, as we, like so many religious bodies, have to deal with and respond to our ageing and reducing membership.”

The Archdiocese of Glasgow said: “The parish church of John Duns Scotus is already a parish of the Archdiocese of Glasgow. While there will be much disappointment at the loss of the Franciscan presence, that will not signal the closure of the church building.”

A Franciscan friary opened in Glasgow in 1476 but was suppressed during the Reformation. The friars returned to the city in 1866 – establishing a presence in the Gorbals community.

The Franciscan priests are due to leave at Easter.

Their departure was announced during mass at the Ballater Street church last weekend.