An ancient crozier that would have been carried by a bishop back in the 9th century caused something of a stir in the Shankill Road area of Belfast last Tuesday.  The historic artefact – or the parts that survived centuries underground – were brought to St Matthew’s Parish Church from Dublin by staff from the National Museum of Ireland to go on display for one day only.

In–person events (and visits) returning in Cork

In Cork, Cloyne and Ross, Bishop Paul Colton has been presented with a Pride of Cork Award, and the Diocesan Youth Council has held its first Retreat Weekend since before the Covid–19 pandemic.  Fanlobbus Youth Club has visited and helped out at a local farm which uses an environmentally sensitive form of agriculture.

The annual clergy conference has also taken place at the Garryvoe Hotel in East Cork.  This followed the diocesan visit to Lichfield at which Bishop Paul Colton preached in the Cathedral; his sermon, on nurturing post–Brexit relationships, is available in the video of the service below and at this link. 

Interview with Archbishop Jackson

Limerick and Killaloe’s Communications Officer, Stephen Fletcher, recently interviewed Archbishop Michael Jackson during his first visit to the new United Diocese of Tuam, Limerick and Killaloe.  The Archbishop was in the diocese for the Institution of Canon Arthur Minion in Birr, Co. Offaly.

Vibrant Victorian architect’s churches in Armagh

Ulster Architectural Heritage has just published a beautifully illustrated, comprehensive and lively account of the architect WJ Barre, written by the former Church of Ireland Press Officer, Dr Paul Harron (who is now its Chief Executive).  WJ Barre, 1830–1867: A Vigorous Mind is profiled on the Armagh diocesan website.  Mr Barre’s work included the really remarkable St Anne’s, Dungannon (Drumglass) and the prettily situated St Mary’s Drumbanagher, and he transformed the building for St Luke’s, Ballymoyer.

Mr Barre also had a hand in changes to St James’s, Moy and St Luke’s, Loughgall, and he did design work for Archbishop Beresford at the Music Hall in Vicar’s Hill and at the Palace Stables.