Monasterboice Parish has launched a major fundraising initiative to support essential improvement works at its two historic churches — in Tenure and Fieldstown.
In the coming months, both churches will undergo projects, including painting, some structural repairs, and much-needed electrical upgrades. These works are part of the parish’s commitment to preserving its heritage while creating warm, safe, and accessible spaces for current and future generations.
To support this effort, the parish is holding a fundraising draw, with tickets priced at €50. Tickets will be on sale from Sunday, 10th August, (after Mass in each Church) and the draw will take place on Friday, 31st October.
Prizes include €2,500, €1,250 and €750.
Speaking about the initiative, Fr. Paddy said:
“Our churches are not just buildings—they’re sacred spaces that hold the memories of baptisms, weddings, funerals, and generations of Sunday worship. This draw is our way of saying: we believe in the future of our parish.”
In The Church of the Nativity of Our Lady, Fieldstown, work will soon get underway to paint both the interior and exterior, along with installing a new floor covering to refresh and brighten the sacred space.
In The Church of the Immaculate Conception, Tenure, electrical upgrades will be carried out – including rewiring, the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting, and new exterior lighting. Some residual painting from previous repairs will also be completed. We have also built a new accessible toilet block, which will be a welcome facility for large funerals, weddings, and parish gatherings.
These works are happening alongside the refurbishment of the Parochial House in Tenure. This project, fully funded by the sale of the old Fieldstown Parochial House, will provide rooms for community use – ideal for meetings, talks, and presentations.
Ray Mitchell, Chair of the Parish Finance Committee said at the launch event:
“We are seeking your support to undertake these works. As the Parish has not held any major fundraisers in years, we are asking and hoping that households in the parish and your extended family members at home or abroad will buy a ticket to support us in undertaking these improvements to the Churches”.
This an ideal moment to invite support from all – whether you attend regularly, only occasionally, or now live further afield but still hold Monasterboice close to your heart. The return of the Parochial House to Tenure is a milestone, and these improvements are an investment in the future of our parish and the wider community. We are grateful to the members of the Parish Finance Committee and the Fundraising Committee who have worked hard to bring this about, and who will be volunteering to sell tickets.
Our churches are structurally sound, thanks be to God, but these enhancements will ensure they remain welcoming, vibrant spaces for worship and community life for the next generation and beyond. Parish life may be evolving, but the spirit of collaboration and mutual support that defines Monasterboice Parish remains strong – uniting parish, school, and community.
How You Can Help – Buy a Brick Fundraiser
To support these vital works, we have launched a Parish Community Buy a Brick Ticket Draw.
- Tickets: €50 each or €500 for a book of 10
- Draw Date: Friday 31st October 2025
- Prizes:🥇 €2,500🥈 €1,250🥉 €750 (* Prizes have all been sponsored by local businesses)
Tickets will be available every weekend at both churches after Sunday Masses starting 10th August, from the Parish Office (087 3791443), Fr Paddy (086 8807470), Ray Mitchell (087 3418002), John Delves (083 0602441), or from committee members:
Online
Many people who grew up here, or who have family connections with the parish, continue to feel part of our community even if they now live further afield. Online donations are a simple and secure way to support the parish. This format also affords our regular parishioners an opportunity to join the draw can be made anytime from home — no need to remember cash at church. Just click the button below.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU FILL IN THE CONTACT DETAILS OTHERWISE A TICKET NUMBER CANNOT BE ALLOCATED TO YOUR PURCHASE.
However it is made, your contribution helps us to maintain and develop our churches and parish life, ensuring they remain strong for the generations to come. We are deeply grateful for the generosity of all who give, whether nearby or across the world, as we continue restoring the past and investing in the future of Monasterboice Parish.
Every ticket purchased, every word of support, and every prayer offered helps us to preserve our cherished heritage while building a vibrant, welcoming community for generations to come.
Monasterboice Parish 