Edmund O'Reilly (theologian)

Edmund O'Reilly (1811-1878) was an Irish Roman Catholic theologian and Archbishop of Armagh. Born in County Louth, Ireland, he was educated at St. Patrick's College, Maynooth. He was ordained a priest in 1838.

O'Reilly served as Professor of Theology at Maynooth from 1842 until 1854, and then as President of the college from 1854 to 1857. Known for his intellectual rigor and staunch ultramontane views, he became a prominent figure in Irish Catholic intellectual life.

In 1878, he was appointed Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, but his episcopate was short-lived as he died later that year.

O'Reilly is particularly remembered for his contributions to the debate on papal infallibility. He actively participated in the First Vatican Council (1869-1870), where he was a strong advocate for the definition of papal infallibility. He argued that the Pope, when speaking ex cathedra on matters of faith and morals, was preserved from error by the Holy Spirit. His writings and speeches played a significant role in shaping the eventual declaration of the dogma.

His publications primarily consist of theological treatises and addresses, dealing with topics such as the nature of the Church, papal authority, and the relationship between faith and reason. He is regarded as a significant figure in the history of Irish Catholicism and a notable contributor to 19th-century theological debates.