St Columba’s Church Conservation Group invites anyone with an interest in local history to join them in a historical walk from Clonmany village to the Old Church, in Straid.
The walk, to mark the end of the conservation project, will take place on Saturday, June 9th, the Feast of St Colmcille, the patron saint of the church.
The group will gather at 2.30pm at the Parochial Hall in Clonmany, within sight of the white stone which is said to mark the entrance to the ancient monastery at Cluain Maine. We will then walk to The Old Church, stopping to discuss points of local interest along the way.
Whether as a scene of quiet contemplation for our more reflective citizens, or as an adventure playground for generations of energetic children, the Old Church is part of the identity of the people of Clonmany Parish and significant to many outside.
For some it is a symbol of our troubled political and religious past, for others it stands as testimony to the passage of time, and its potential for healing.
The walk may be reminiscent, for older generations, of the religious pilgrimages of old – the ‘turas’ on a saint’s feast day – while for others it will represent a more personal trip down memory lane.
Whatever its significance to you, the committee extends a warm welcome to you to come and share your thoughts, and help us celebrate the success of our conservation project.
Tea and sandwiches will be available in the Parochial Hall upon our return.