Gleeson delivering the absolution (Rickard is also depicted in the background). The painting was printed in The Sphere on 27 November 1916 and was widely reproduced elsewhere throughout the war. The painting was destroyed by German bombs during the Second World War. Gleeson later donated the stole he wore for the parade to the regimental museum. In July 1915 Gleeson held a preaching mission in the British lines. He issued a certificate, designed by himself, to all who attended. The certificate included the names of major battles that the Munsters had fought in, the flags of Allied nations, a crucifix, the Celtic cross and the Irish harp. The text recommended that soldiers lead a temperate life, avoid sinning and to frequently pray. Gleeson further distinguished himself later that year by assisting in the defence of a trench against enemy attack and served with the Munsters in action on 25 September 1915 in the Battle of Loos. He had a strong commitment to the idea of freeing Belgium from German occupation but was known to be critical of what he considered anti-clerical views held by the French authorities. Having originally agreed to serve for a year Gleeson wrote to Father Bernard Rawlinson, the senior Roman Catholic chaplain, in October 1915 requesting that he be relieved of duty at the end of his current contract. He stated that "I am sorry to be leaving the dear old Munster lads, but I really can't stand it any longer. I do not like the life, though I love the poor men ever so much". Gleeson returned to Ireland and after a period of convalescence served as curate at the newly opened Church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Dublin from 16 December. Late war and Irish Free State service Gleeson later had a change of heart and requested permission from Archbishop Walsh to return to army service. He was recommissioned in his previous rank on 15 May 1917 on a two-year contract. Gleeson returned to the 2nd Battalion, Royal Munster Fusiliers and served with them in action at the Capture of Wytschaete, the First Battle of Passchendaele, the Battle of Langemarck, the Second Battle of Passchendaele and the Battle of Cambrai. When the 2nd Battalion were transferred to the 48th Brigade, 16th (Irish) Division on 29 January 1918 Gleeson remained with the 1st Infantry Division. He remained with the division, returning with them to