Fr. Paul Mary Pakenham C.P. 1821-1857
First Rector of Mount Argus

Moments in the life Fr. Paul Mary

1821 Charles Pahenham was born in Dublin, fourth son of Earl of Longford, a protestant aristocratic family. His mother was Georgina Emma Charlotte Lygon, daughter of William, first Earl of Beauchamp. Educated at a preparatory school at Richmond and later at an English public school at Winchester.

1846 Enlisted in Grenadier Guards.

1850 After doubts about his Anglican Faith he converted to Catholicism on 15th August to the consternation of his family and friends.

1851 One of his sisters was horrified by his defection from Anglicanism. "For goodness sake, Charles," she snapped, "get married as soon as you can or you'll end up by becoming a monk". Her words were prophetic for that is what he decided. He joined the Passionists to further dismay of his family. In the seclusion of his Passionist Retreat, Brother Paul Mary was heard to whisper: "How little have I given up for so much."

1855 Bro. Paul Mary continued his studies and was ordained a priest by Most Rev. Dr. Ullathorne at Oscott College, Birmingham, on September 29th 1855. He was assigned to Rome.

1856 Recalled from Rome to be First Rector of Mount Argus. He celebrated the First Mass in Mount Argus on 15th August 1856. Fr. Paul Mary as superior was well-respected by the other religious. He led by example. The day and night round of prayers were strictly adhered to. All traces of luxury vanished. Food was plain and simple.

1856 The people of Dublin flocked to this new priest in their midst. They came for confession where they found a very sympathetic ear. They came to listen to his sermons and to his catechism classes. Religious and people recognised someone special in their midst.

1856 He fell ill in November during a Mission in Rathmines and returned to Mount Argus.

1857 New Year - Fr. Paul Mary was 'dying on his feet' and was confined to bed towards the end of February. He died March 1st aged 35 years.

Preaching in the Jesuit Church, Gardiner St., that day Fr. Ignatius Spencer announced 'The voice of him who was to have addresses you today shall never again be heard upon the earth'. A suppressed wail of grief was heard throughout the Church.