Diocese of GalwayKilmacduagh & Kilfenora

Galway Cathedral welcomes the gifting of a painted replica of the revered “Weeping Virgin Mother of Győr” painting, graciously presented to the Diocese of Galway by His Excellency Bishop András Veres of Győr, Hungary, on a recent visit to Ireland. This remarkable gesture reaffirms the deep historical and spiritual bond between the Dioceses of Galway, Clonfert, and Győr - a connection that spans over 350 years.

Bishop Michael Duignan, who serves as Bishop of Galway, Kilmacduagh, Kilfenora, and Clonfert, expressed his gratitude for this treasured gift during a special ceremony in Galway Cathedral. In his address, he highlighted the significance of Bishop Walter Lynch, a Galway native and former Bishop of Clonfert, who played a pivotal role in uniting these two regions during the 17th century.

Bishop Lynch, exiled from Ireland during the Cromwellian era, found refuge in Győr, Hungary. It was in Győr that the miraculous event associated with his treasured painting occurred. On the Feast of St. Patrick, March 17th, 1697, the image of the Madonna and Child was said to have wept tears of blood, a miracle that became a symbol of hope and consolation for the afflicted across Hungary and beyond.

“Today, this historic connection between Galway and Győr continues to inspire us,” said Bishop Duignan. “The ‘Weeping Virgin Mother of Győr’ - also known as the ‘Irish Madonna’ or ‘Consoler of the Afflicted’ - serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of faith in the face of suffering. Just as Bishop Lynch found solace in Hungary, this painting now represents the ongoing solidarity between our dioceses.”

The replica of the painting will be placed in Galway Cathedral. Fr. John Gerard Acton, commenting on the significance of the gift, said, “We hope it will offer parishioners and visitors a moment of reflection and comfort as they engage with its rich history, while also providing a place where they can come to seek peace and deepen their devotion to Our Lady. In a world so often filled with uncertainty, this image reminds us of the hope that faith brings.”

Bishop Duignan extended his heartfelt thanks to Bishop Veres and the Diocese of Győr for their kindness, as well as to the Hungarian people for their long-standing tradition of generosity - a tradition that began with their warm welcome of Bishop Walter Lynch centuries ago.

“In a world filled with uncertainty, this painting serves as a real source of hope. It reminds us, as Christians, of our call to stand with the afflicted and to never lose sight of God’s compassion,” Bishop Duignan remarked.

An exhibition detailing the story behind the picture is on display at Galway Cathedral for a limited time.