Luke Doogue, Neil Patterson, and Stephen Patterson took the Christmastime twelve pubs tradition into their own hands after they found themselves with nothing to do on Sunday mornings.
The Co. Wicklow locals are golfers, and when one suggested attending Mass instead of golfing on a rainy Sunday, the men coined the term ‘twelve churches’ instead of ‘twelve pubs’.
“We should be doing twelve churches, nevermind twelve pubs, one to absolve everyone of those sins you’re about to pick up when you go out for your twelve pubs,” said Luke Doogue in an interview with The Irish Catholic.
While twelve pubs offers lots of opportunity for socialising, Mr Doogue shared that going to Mass each Sunday has allowed for just as much, with the added benefit of deepening one’s faith.
“Your faith was getting stronger, but you were obviously able to get friendlier with people as well,” he said.
Whether chatting with local parishioners about their initiative or attending GAA matches nearby, Mr Doogue pointed out that the socialisation after Mass was just as enjoyable as it would be on a night at the pub. “We can still get Mass in and do all the things we enjoy,” he added.
“43 churches and 70 odd Masses later, we’re still going,” said Mr Doogue. “It’s part of our schedule now, we’re delighted to go.” Mr Doogue also cited the encouragement of parishioners and priests that they’ve met on their travels as motivation to keep the tradition going.
