Irish Times Notes
Church of Ireland Notes from ‘The Irish Times’
St Patrick’s Conservation Plan
St Patrick’s cathedral, Dublin, the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland and one of the country’s most cherished landmarks, has officially launched its Conservation Plan 2024, a comprehensive roadmap to safeguard the historic building’s physical fabric, cultural significance, and spiritual legacy for generations to come. The 112–page document outlines a meticulous strategy for the sustainable care and future development of the cathedral, recognising its vital role as a place of worship, cultural beacon, and living heritage site.
Developed by James Howley, Grade 1 conservation architect of Howley Hayes Cooney, in collaboration with Cathedral Archaeologist Linzi Simpson, and with contributions from heritage expert Mary Hanna, the new conservation plan takes stock of the substantial progress made over the last 18 years including essential repairs, fire safety upgrades, and increased visitor engagement.
The plan was made possible through funding from the Community Monument Fund 2024, administered by Dublin City Council and supported by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
The Conservation Plan takes a forward–looking, integrated approach to care and stewardship, balancing the preservation of ancient stonework, stained glass, and archaeological remains with the cathedral’s role as a vibrant centre for worship, music, education, and tourism, welcoming more than 600,000 visitors annually.
It also emphasises environmental responsibility, using sustainable materials and practices in all conservation efforts.
As the most visited church in Ireland and a cornerstone of Irish heritage, St Patrick’s cathedral continues to represent the intersection of faith, history, and civic identity. The Conservation Plan reaffirms its commitment to that role and will guide decision–making for the next 20 years, ensuring the cathedral remains a dynamic, inclusive, and resilient space for all.
Summer Music at Sandford continues today (Friday) at 1.10 pm in Sandford parish church, Ranelagh, where soprano, Marion Creely will sing accompanied by the Hanneville String Quartet.
In Belfast tomorrow evening (Saturday) at 7pm there will be a Summer Concert in St Columba’s church, Knock with the St Columba’s Cantors and Soloists, directed by Dr Joe McKee, with Tristan Russler at the organ.
On Sunday at 8.30 am. the Bishop of Cork, Cloyne & Ross, Dr Paul Colton, will celebrate the Eucharist in Templebreedy parish church, marking the 40th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.
The Benefact trust is advertising for a Grants Officer based in the Republic of Ireland. In order to help us increase its Christian grant making in Ireland. Details of the role can be found here.
A new leaflet produced by Belonging Without Boundaries, an ecumenical group supported by the Church of Ireland’s Commission for Christian Unity and Dialogue, among other organisations, aims to prompt Christians to consider their role in welcoming those who have arrived on this island.‘Room at the Inn – A Welcome for the Stranger’ may be downloaded here and hard copies are available by emailing [email protected].
Published in the Friday edition of The Irish Times