Press Releases20 Jan 10

Archbishop to Give Talk on Celtic Heritage of Armagh

The Archbishop of Armagh, the Most Reverend Alan Harper, OBE, will deliver a talk on the Celtic Heritage of Armagh in the Church of Ireland Cathedral on Monday 1st February at 7.30 pm.

Archbishop Harper was previously an archaeologist and worked on the last excavation of Navan Fort. He is a former Chairman of the Historic Monuments Council for Northern Ireland and received an OBE for services to conservation in Northern Ireland. Along with Environment Minister, Edwin Poots, he recently launched An Archaeological Survey of County Armagh published by the N.I. Environment Agency.

The Revd Grace Clunie, Director of Celtic Spirituality at the Centre for Celtic Spirituality in Armagh says, ‘The theme for this year’s programme at The Centre for Celtic Spirituality, Armagh – ‘Ancient paths, new journeys’ – reflects the connections between the traditions of history and contemporary faith and culture. Archbishop Alan Harper is one who knows about this connection intimately through his own life experience – firstly as an archaeologist, uncovering the mysteries of the ancient past, and then as a priest of the church practising his faith in worship and pastoral ministry. He was involved in the last excavation of the Megalithic site of Navan Fort and has understandably a passion for the archaeology of County Armagh. This event is open to anyone who has an interest in understanding more about our connections with our ancient past, and the richness of our heritage for contemporary life in Ireland.’

Admission is by ticket: £2.50 if purchased in advance; £3.50 at the door on the night; £2.00 for purchases of 20 tickets or more. Tickets are available from The Church of Ireland Cathedral Gift Shop or contact the Revd Grace Clunie on T. 02838 870 667 or Email: [email protected]