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First Catholic Synod in Ireland since the Middle Ages in Thurles, Co. Tipperary

First Catholic Synod in Ireland Since the Middle Ages in Thurles, Co. Tipperary

The Irish Franchise Act is enacted and has the effect of increasing the electorate from 45,000 to 164,000

Charters are granted to colleges in Belfast, Cork and Galway, under the Universities (Ireland) Act

First Catholic Synod in Ireland since the Middle Ages in Thurles, Co. Tipperary

The First Catholic Synod in Ireland since the Middle Ages opens in Thurles, Co. Tipperary, convened by Archbishop Paul Cullen. The National Synod begins on this date and runs through September 10, marking a major turning point in the post-Penal Laws revival of the Irish Catholic Church.

Summoned to reassert discipline, unity, and Rome-aligned authority, the synod is attended by bishops, clergy, and lay representatives. It reflects Cullen’s vision of a renewed and centralized Church, with strong influence from Ultramontanism—the belief in strong papal authority.

The Synod of Thurles (1850) lays the foundation for the modern Irish Catholic Church, reshaping its structure, education policies, and public role in Irish life.