Timeline

Construction of new Catering and Dining Hall completed.

A noticeable decrease in vocations and student numbers continues through the decade. New programmes introduced: Preparing for Ministry, Sabbatical programme and BA (Theology). Marie Slevin MMM is first female student.

Retreat Conference Centre established in Purcell House. By the 1970s many academic and administrative staff are women.

President John F Kennedy assassinated in Dallas, Texas, USA. Christmas card, signed by the First Lady and posted prior to the tragedy, is received by Fr Joe Leonard, staff member and close friend of Jackie.

Largest number of ordinations to date. 44 priests are ordained. Mine Disaster, Burney, England. Liam Cotter, ordained in All Hallows in 1955, risked his life by crawling down a coal mine torn by an explosion and giving absolution to all 17 dead or dying men.

Many bishops pass through All Hallows travelling to or from the Second Vatican Council, leading to vibrant discussions on the Church’s future.

O’Donnell House, dedicated to All Hallows’ longest-serving and influential president, is blessed and opened by Most Rev Dr McQuaid, Archbishop of Dublin.

Betty Crowe is the first female academic to be employed by All Hallows. She teaches Spanish to those travelling to Spanish-speaking countries.