Lisdoonvarna church concert to raise the roof

A CHRISTMAS concert in Lisdoonvarna’s Corpus Christi Church is aiming to raise the roof in more ways than one.

Country and gospel singer James Kilbane will be performing in the church on Sunday, December 11, with funds raised from the event going towards much needed renovations and repairs to the church.

Fr Robert McNamara, parish priest, outlined that Corpus Christi Church was constructed in 1868 and now sections of the roof are in great need of repair with the replacement of slates and gutters.

“There is much dampness inside the church as well, as a result. These church areas need internal sealing and dampness repair on the internal roof and walls. The church’s bell tower also needs extensive repair work.

“The reality is that urgent funds for repairs are needed as well as for the maintenance of the other church buildings in the parish in Kilshanny, Doolin, and Toovahera.

“All support to the event will be greatly appreciated from the surrounds of the local parish and greater County Clare region,” he said.

Fr McNamara said the concert will be a “wonderful night of music and seasonal celebrations” starting at 6pm. The response to the concert has already been very positive, with Fr McNamara urging people to come out and show their support for the fundraiser while also enjoying a fun festive event.

The parish priest first met Kilbane while in Medjugorje and they have kept in touch since.

“He was singing to us up a mountain and we became friends so when we were looking for ideas to raise money for the repairs we asked and he very kindly said he would do this concert.”

This will be Kilbane’s first time back in County Clare to sing since Covid and he is really looking forward to returning saying, “Clare has always been a special place for me. In the past we always would have wonderful nights.

“County Clare is an amazing place and the people are known for their love of music and song. I am really looking forward to the Lisdoonvarna concert. It will be a real special night.”

On the night he will include many Christmas carol favourites as well as the songs that he has become known for across Ireland and elsewhere.

Since 2004 and “You’re a Star” programme Kilbane has released a total of 13 successful albums and numerous singles.

In recent months Kilbane has been working with television broadcaster Shalom World TV who broadcast across five continents with his new programme ‘Rewind with James Kilbane’.

Kilbane, now a multi-platinum selling artist continues to move musically with the times on the internet and social media music platforms.
He is a well-known voice on radio, for his country and Christian albums.

Kilbane’s home grown approach attracts many from every walk of life, and many Christian traditions.

In Lisdoonvarna at the Corpus Christi Church, Kilbane will include many of his popular song offerings including There is a place, Mama’s Roses, When a Child is Born, Mary’s Boy Child, O Holy Night, The Nazarene Song and so many more.

To enjoy a great night of Christmas carols and Country gospel with James Kilbane, tickets are available from Howley’s Shop in Kilfenora, Dolly Jordan shop in Lisdoonvarna, the church committee members or direct from 087 9763559. Concert assembly will be from 5.30 pm with the event starting at 6 pm. All support will be much appreciated and all are welcome from across the region.