Re: Re: reorganisation and destruction of irish catholic churches
New exhibition showcases the story of St Mel’s CathedralPremium Article !
« Previous « PreviousNext » Next »View GalleryADVERTISEMENTPublished Date: 30 June 2010
By Ailbhe Gillespie
An exhibition showcasing the story of St Mel’s Cathedral is on display in the Co Longford Library for the next month.
The event, which was officially opened by Bishop Colm O’Reilly in recent weeks, explores the history of the cathedral and reflects on the tragic fire last Christmas Day through photographs, paintings, books, letters and newspaper articles.
According to the Co Longford Librarian Mary Carlton Reynolds: “The exhibition includes an overview of the history of St Mel’s and its treasures; the aftermath of the fire and future plans; and writings by local people, children and adults, reflecting on what the cathedral means to them. There is also an interesting selection of books, archives and artefacts on display.”
She added, “Over the years, St Mel’s Cathedral has had a central part in community life in Longford town, the county and the diocese. In the weeks and months after the fire, many people from Longford, and with Longford connections, expressed their sorrow in letters and poems, some of which feature in the exhibition.
“On the opening night, there was a performance by pupils from St Joseph’s National School. While the exhibition looks back at the remarkable history of St Mel’s, it also anticipates the repair work soon to begin.”
Three local artists/photographers; Tiernan Dolan, Tommy Reynolds and Pat Hourican have also donated photographs and a painting which are for sale in the library and all proceeds will go towards the Cathedral Restoration Fund.
Local graphic designer Edel Fallon of Bottlegreendesign created several colourful banners to guide you through the exhibition. It is intended that the exhibition will travel to other venues in the county and the diocese later in the year.
The exhibition will run until the end of July. There will alos be open mornings from 10am to 12pm, on three successive Wednesdays (June 30, July 7 and July 14) with a guided tour by Diocesan Archivist, Fr Tom Murray, Heritage Officer, Mairead NÃ Chonghaile and County Archivist, Martin Morris.
To book your place on one of the tours or for further information contact 043-33 41124.
