'Visionaries' in Ireland (1) - Two Dioceses Response on House of Prayer, Achill, Ireland & Austin, Texas, USA

From the Archdiocese of Tuam website, link below.

House of Prayer – Achill

December 1, 2009

Many calls and letters have come to the Diocesan Office regarding the work termed the “House of Prayer” in Achill, Co. Mayo. The Archbishop originally issued two public statements in this regard, in December 1997 and July 1998 respectively.  These are included on the link below.  While wishing to entirely respect the reputations of all involved, the Archdiocese cannot but recall that sincere and well-ordered attempts on the part of the diocesan authorities to integrate this work into the life of the local church here met with a disappointing lack of success.  

Accordingly, while welcoming any and all sincere attempts to promote orthodox Catholic faith and piety, the Archdiocese cannot lend its approval to this work as matters stand and is obliged to note that the same work is entirely of a private nature and carries no ecclesiastical approval whatever.  The Archbishop would call on all persons of good will involved in the situation to reflect on what is best for the Church at large and to exercise the greatest responsibility and charity in the matter.

Link to further documents on this:  Tuam Archdiocese - House of Prayer, Achill

Leander prayer house, Austin, Texas, USA

Our Lady Queen of Peace House of Prayer, scheduled to open on June 23 2006 at 23700 Nameless Road in Leander, is doing so without the approval of Bishop Aymond. It should NOT be considered as sanctioned by the Catholic Church. Chancery officials have received several inquiries about its legitimacy and others have expressed concern regarding the situation.

The house of prayer is associated with Ms. Christina Gallagher of the Tuam Archdiocese in Ireland. The Tuam Archdiocese does not recommend her or the House of Prayer as credible. We have also been informed that Father Gerald McGinnity, a priest of the Armaugh Archdiocese in Ireland, will accompany Ms. Gallagher to Austin. Father McGinnity has not been given permission to celebrate Mass at the House of Prayer and will not have faculties from the Austin Diocese to serve in any ministerial capacity.

Above from:  Austin Diocese Newsletter 2006