ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH, GOREY… reopened for worship after refurbishment programme.

Mass was celebrated in St. Michael’s Church, Gorey, this evening for the first time in five months.

The 175 years old church, designed by the celebrated church architect, Augusts Welby Pugin, was part of an extensive refurbishment programme.

Parish Priest, Fr Willie Howell, said the congregation were delighted to be back in St. Michael’s and large congregations are expected for the Christmas Masses.

The Catholic community was afforded the facilities at Christ Church courtesy of the Church of Ireland community.

“It has been a joy to host our friends for their worship needs and it is a true example of Gorey churches working together for all to see,” commented the Rector of the Gorey Union, Canon Mark Hayden.

St. Michael’s Church benefitted from the Built Heritage Jobs Leverage Grant Scheme 2014 and received a grant of €15,000 towards “stained glass windows, urgent remedial attention and protection.”

Contractor for the work was Pat Gregan from Tara Hill and the refurbishment created 115 days of employment.

The interior of the newly refurbished St. Michael’s Church at Gorey.