Exhibition marks 180 years of Cathedral

THE history and traditions of the Catholic faith throughout the years were recalled at the weekend in a special exhibition marking the 180th anniversary of Ennis Cathedral.

A chalice dating back to Penal times and an artefact used in the old church of Chapel Lane before the establishment of Ennis Cathedral were just some of the items of historical significance on display.

The exhibition of historic vestments, liturgical artefacts and other items of interest were displayed in the Cathedral Chapter Room throughout the weekend.

According to Fr Ger Fitzgerald, there was a lot of interest in the exhibits. The exhibition was officially launched by James O’Connor last Friday, with the artefacts on display over the weekend.

“In some ways, this exhibition was an appreciation of what we had, as well as looking towards the future and seeing where we are going. This exhibition was held for two reasons; to mark 180 years of the church and mark the perseverance of the people of Ennis in their belief and their faith. It was also held to mark the Year of Faith.

“The exhibition featured a lot of very interesting items. There were pre-Vatican II missals, pre-Vatican II chasubles, very old chalices going back even as far as Penal times and a very old cruet that used to be used in the church in Chapel Lane, the original church in the town.

He paid tribute to everyone who donated to the exhibition. “Many of the items came from Bishop’s House and we are very appreciative of Bishop Kieran O’Reilly. Other items came from Fr Brendan Quinlivan and more from a church in Newmarket. As well as donations of religious items, there were a number of people who donated presses and cabinets to display the items and we are very grateful.”