Michael Shiell facts for kids

Michael Shiell was a special kind of Franciscan leader, known as a Guardian, at the Killeigh friary. He lived in Ireland around the years 1693 to 1698.

Michael Shiell was part of the Ó Siadhail family. This family was well-known in areas like County Offaly and County Laois a long time ago. Michael joined the Franciscan order, which is a group of friars who dedicate their lives to God and helping people. In 1693, he became the Guardian of the Franciscan friary in Killeigh, which is in County Offaly. A friary is a place where friars live and work.

In 1698, Michael Shiell and seven other people signed an important document. This document showed that they had taken special items from the friary to keep them safe. These items included chalices (cups used in church services), pyxes, other cups, an oil box, a ciborium (another type of container for church items), a bell, and special clothes called vestments. These items were very important to the friary. One of the other people who signed was William Shiell, who was probably also from the Ó Siadhail family. The Ó Siadhail family had a long history of working closely with the Franciscans in the middle parts of Ireland.

Who Were the Franciscans?

The Franciscans are a religious order that started many centuries ago. They follow the teachings of Saint Francis of Assisi. Franciscans are known for living simple lives and helping others. They often live in communities called friaries.

Protecting Important Items

During Michael Shiell's time, there were often challenges in Ireland. To make sure valuable church items were not lost or damaged, people like Michael Shiell would take them for safekeeping. This was a way to protect the friary's treasures during difficult times.