The Daniel O'Connell Memorial Church in Cahersiveen, has now closed its doors for essential restoration works.
The total cost of the repairs is €2 million, but fundraisers say they're concerned that they'll fall short of raising this amount.
The Daniel O’Connell Church, which first opened its doors in Cahersiveen in 1902, closed yesterday in order to facilitate urgent repair work.
This Church holds a special place in Irish heritage—not only as a place of worship for over 120 years, but also as the only church in the world named after a lay person, Daniel O’Connell, “The Liberator.”
This August marks the 250th anniversary of his birth, which fundraisers say make the preservation of this landmark more meaningful than ever.
The total cost of the restoration is €2 million and parishioners have already raised half a million Euro, but a shortfall of €1.5 million remains.
Chairperson of the Parish Council Marie McGowan appealed to the public and to the Cahersiveen diaspora, to help preserve this vital part of the town's legacy.
With the church closed for the foreseeable future, Mass times in the area have moved to nearby churches in Foilmore and Aghatubrid, with Mass during the week being held in the Nun's chapel.
Details on how to support the fundraising efforts can be found here.
