We are a community of 5 priests. We belong to a male Religious Order called Augustinians. The Augustinians have been in Galway since 1500, so in the year 2000 we celebrated the 500th anniversary of the arrival of the first Augustinians in Galway. They had their first monastery in what is now Forthill Cemetery by Lough Attalia.
We all work here in St. Augustine's Church and Parish. The Church of St. Augustine, built in 1855 and renovated in 2005, is located on Middle Street, at the bottom of Buttermilk Lane. It is a popular devotional Church for the people of Galway. Many people come with their difficulties -and gratitude- to the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Counsel.
Since 1971 St. Augustine's has been a Parish Church. The parish itself is small geographically, but its population has grown dramatically in recent years, due mainly to the construction of so many new apartments in the city centre. The apartments on The Long Walk, The New Docks area, Merchant's Road, Spanish Arch area, Kirwans Lane, Bridge Street, Fisherman's Wharf, and Market Street are all in St. Augustine's Parish.
Though many are not aware of this fact, a rather vibrant community exists within the parish. A hub of activity is Ozanam House on Augustine Street. This is a community centre, run by the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Many voluntary groups meet there. These people are always looking for helpers. Tagaste House, at 4 Augustine Street, is a support centre for young people with difficulties adjusting socially. Again, they need helpers.
There is an open invitation to join us for Tea or Coffee and a chat after 11:00 Mass on Sundays. Finally, we are here if you need us. Don't hesitate to seek us out.