Courtney McGrail
Staff reporter
Irish rugby legend Ollie Campbell has revealed that his Catholic faith is a “very important” part of his life.
In an extensive interview with The Irish Catholic the former fly-half said he had a “very strong faith”.
“I’m a weekly massgoer. It would be a rare Sunday that I wouldn’t get Mass,” he said.
Mr Campbell, who was educated at the Jesuit-run Belvedere College, said two of the biggest influences on his faith were his parents and the Jesuit ethos.
“I believe. My parents would have been a massive influence on that. They were both very strong believers and then you add in the Jesuit influence as well. I have a very strong faith. It’s a very important part of my life,” he said.
Mr Campbell said the Jesuit ethos had a “lasting impression” on him.
“The Jesuits, whether you like it or not, really get in under your skin. Their influence really never leaves you.
“They taught excellence and aspiration,” he said, and “that you are a winner once you try”.
The rugby great also noted that the Jesuits seem to impart on their students the “importance of having a social conscience”.
“Sometimes it’s even subconscious but the Jesuits give you a broader picture of the world and to always be on the lookout for those who might be less fortunate than you,” he said.
