Diocesan News02 Jun 10

"Four West Clogher Churches" History Publication Launched

A new book by Valerie Irwin from Garrison was recently launched at a special evening for the occasion at the Hotel Carleton in Belleek, Co. Fermanagh.

The book, which is entitled Four West Clogher Churches, is the culmination of much research by the author, as it explores the history of the four Church of Ireland parishes of Garrison, Slavin, Belleek and Kiltyclogher, which are located in the most westerly part of Clogher Diocese.

The 140-page publication traces the history of these four parish churches from their origins through to more recent times. The book also features a history of the Methodist church in the locality, especially the church at Kilcoo. With the loss of many significant local records over the years, much of which was lost following the fire at Dublin’s General Post Office, the book which has been colourfully illustrated with photographs and reproduced images of old documents, will provide a useful reference for parishioners and those with an interest in the local area and history in general. The publication includes reference to a number of interesting and significant characters who contributed to the life of these parishes and the local community down through the years.

The book launch was exceptionally well attended, from right across the community, with nearly three hundred people present. The MC for the evening was Mr Joe O’Loughlin, and everyone present enjoyed refreshments sponsored by Mrs Una Bourke of Erne Insurance Services. Speakers at the launch included the Bishop of Clogher, the Rt Revd Dr Michael Jackson; the author, Miss Valerie Irwin; the author’s brother, the Revd Canon George Irwin; Belleek native, the Revd Nigel Kirkpatrick; the Diocesan Curate in charge of the Garrison Group of Parishes, the Revd Noel Regan; Mr Tommy McLaughlin representing Fermanagh District Council; and, Mrs Kathleen Ritchie, widow of the late Canon Robin Ritchie.

The book is priced at £10 and is available in local book shops. The proceeds raised from the publication will go towards supporting educational initiatives with the Jacaranda Farm project in Northern Nigeria.