The Sisters of Mercy, founded by Catherine McAuley in Dublin 1843 established a foundation in Callanin 1872, at the invitation of the Bishop of Ossory, Dr.Patrick Moran
Callan is home to three religious congregations. These congregations have contributed greatly to the spiritual, social and economic life of the town and surrounding areas for several centuries.
The Sisters of Mercy, founded by Catherine McAuley in Dublin 1843 established a foundation in Callanin 1872, at the invitation of the Bishop of Ossory, Dr.Patrick Moran
The first Augustinian Abbey was built in Callan in 1471 by James Fitzdesmond Butler who is buried within. This Abbey was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1557 when the then prior William O'Fogarty was forced to leave.
The present Friary dates from 1810 and was built by Rev. John Rice O.S.A., brother of Edmund Rice, founder of the Christian Brothers.
Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice, (1762-1844) founder of the Irish Christian Brothers was born at Westcourt which is situated one mile outside the town of Callan.