Fundraiser for St. Columba's Church
On Thursday, Oct 23, 2014, we celebrated a happy event was in St Cronan’s, Brackenstown. We were joined by clergy and parishioners from our neighbouring parishes, St Colmcille’s, Swords and St Finian’s, River Valley. Our guests of honour were Rev’d Cannon R.W. Deane, Rector of St Columba’s Church of Ireland, Swords and a fair representation of his parishioners.
St Columba’s church building had suffered serious storm damage over several hard winters. The time had come for major repair work, entailing hefty expenditure. Their Roman catholic neighbours organised some fundraising for the restoration fund, and the resulting contribution was handed over to Canon Robert Deane at the conclusion of a short service in St Cronan’s.
St. Columba's Church before the storm damage
Following the ceremony, our hospitality team provided light refreshments. For me, and for everyone I talked to, the prevailing atmosphere was one of sheer happiness. I was reminded of the day St Cronan’s Church was dedicated, in December, 1977, 37 years ago now. On that evening there was an atmosphere of quiet joy within in the church. This same atmosphere seemed to prevail on this particular Thursday evening, one of quiet joy and contentment.
Storm damage to our homes is a disaster we all dread, and the older homes are the most vulnerable. The scene is similar with churches. Built on the original Colomban monastic hill-site in Swords, St Columba’s can often find itself in the path of the storm. Restoration and re-enforcement work becomes a necessity. however costly it may be.
We wish our neighbours, the parishioners of St Columba’s church, every blessing and success with their restoration work, and with them, we look forward to the day when their church will be back in use.
"Ar scath a cheile a mhaireann na daoine"
Presentation of Cheque for Roof Restoration Fund in
St. Columba's Church
From left to right: Fr. Des Doyle, Fr. Michael Carey,
Revd. Robert Dean, Fr. Paul Thornton
and Fr. Joseph Njanackal
