This is the interior of St Patrick’s Church, Glann. Empty now, though open for prayer, there is no public Mass here and there hasn’t been since mid March. Sad to see.
The church was opened in 1824 so is almost two hundred years old. There are older churches in the diocese but it must rank up there among one of the oldest still in use.
It’s a sobering thought to realise this church was just 21 years old when the Famine broke out that ravaged our land for four years and left its darkened scars for decades, perhaps even centuries afterwards.
Before the Church had the chance to celebrate its centenary it witnessed the 1916 Rising and The Civil War and the First World War. The “Spanish Flu” of 1918 claimed over 20,000 lives in Ireland and infected, it is estimated, around 800,000. Worldwide the Spanish Flu claimed at least 50 million lives, with somewhere in the region of 500 million being infected.
Before the passing of another 21 years, the Second World War broke out with devastating impact.
Through these events, and local happenings, the church has stood as a sign that God calls us to be a community at prayer and at peace.
Standing in this church a few hours ago, I could not help but think if “the walls could talk”, they might well say “Don’t be afraid. I have come through the darkest of days and have always seen the very best in people, witnessed to and alive in this very place.”
We will get through this. We will fill these seats again. This church has stood faithfully in our midst and there is a call going out to us all, to remain faithful, remain hopeful and to give praise to God.
WE CAN DO THIS!
In baptism, white is the colour blessed as a symbol of purity. Our Lady IS the month of May. Communion and children. Jesus said Let the children come to me. St Anne, mother of mothers, help us to do as you did for your daughter. Bless your grandchildren. Ahem
Great reminder of past trials and that which is constant.