Thomas Hamilton, Dictionary of National Biography… (1893)
“ In childhood Malachy was noted for his studious, retiring, prayerful habits. At school he outstripped all his fellows in learning. Early in life he became a pupil of Iomhar Ua-h-Aedhagan, founder of the abbey church of SS. Peter and Paul in Armagh, who lived in a cell near the church. Here Malachy gained such a reputation for sanctity and learning that the Bishop of Armagh, Kellach or Celsus, ordained him to deacon's orders, much against his will. ”
