Vigil in Louth remembers O’Connor family
Hundreds of people gathered in Co Louth this week to remember Mark, Louise, and their son Evan O’Connor, whose deaths were confirmed after they were found at their family home in the Drumgowna area on Monday morning. The somber evening brought together neighbours, friends, and members of the clergy to show solidarity during a period of collective grief.
A candlelit moment at the walking track
The vigil began with a candlelit gathering at the Stonetown Community Walking Track, where Fr Gerry Campbell, the Administrator for Louth Parish, led prayers and spoke to the community about the impact of the tragedy. In a time of unanswered questions and heartbreak, he reminded those present that while words may fall short, the comfort of shared presence matters deeply in the days ahead.
Church leaders offer comfort and guidance
The service drew attendance from across the diocese and beyond. Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland Eamon Martin, along with Auxiliary Bishop Michael Router, were among the participants, underscoring the community’s need for spiritual support in the wake of such a sudden loss.
A community rallying together
Approximately 500 people, including Gardaí and other emergency service personnel, filled the grounds at Annaghminnon GAA Club for a broader remembrance gathering later in the evening. Speakers and choir members offered prayers and hymns, reflecting a shared sense of grief and resilience that has begun to shape the local response to the tragedy.
Remembering Mark, Louise and Evan
Fr Campbell spoke of the ripple effect of the loss on the parish and the wider community, noting that “the loss of Mark, Louise and Evan has sent ripples of grief across our parish and across this land and into the hearts of all who have heard their story.” The O’Connor family’s disappearance and death have left many grappling with questions, disbelief, and a shared ache for their relatives and friends.
Looking for the light
He spoke of a general theme for the vigil—”looking for the light”—and of the parish’s efforts to grasp that light in a time of darkness. “In the face of such loss, faith may feel fragile, but even the smallest spark of faith reminds us that death does not have the final word,” Fr Campbell said, offering a message of hope and endurance to those who are hurting.
Support, presence, and ongoing care
Fr Campbell emphasized that, while words cannot erase pain, the community’s presence, prayers, and care provide essential support. He urged people to remember that no one should grieve alone, and he thanked all the volunteers, neighbours, and friends who have stood by one another in the days since the family’s passing.
Rite of remembrance completes the evening
As the night drew to a close, attendees of the two gatherings took part in a reflective walk around the track, a quiet act of remembrance for Mark, Louise, and Evan. The service underscored a sense of unity, with many noting that the grieving process will require time, empathy, and ongoing community support in the weeks ahead.
Continuing support for the O’Connor family
Community leaders and parishioners affirmed that they would continue to hold the O’Connor family in prayer and extend practical help to relatives and neighbours affected by the tragedy. In moments like these, the strength of a close-knit community—especially in rural Ireland—often lies in its willingness to come together, lift one another up, and look for light amid sorrow.
