The Carmelite Community in Knocktopher will soon be no more.
The Order has reviewed its commitments as it makes future plans and in a statement says it can no longer maintain a community in Knocktopher or continue to fulfill its pastoral responsibilities in Ballyhale.
Their withdrawal is planned for this December and the parish will then return to the care of the Diocese of Ossory.
Local man Frank Aylward told KCLR Live this morning that people are shocked but diminishing numbers in the order has resulted in this decision.