A Visit to Some Cork City Churches and Former Churches

There was a strong sense of ecumenism at the Cork Chapter's final event for 2010. The event, organised by Edmund Corrigan, was a Saturday morning visit on the 20th. November to two Roman Catholic churches and two former Church of Ireland churches. Our group began our tour at the Catholic Church of St Peter's and Paul's.

St. Peter's and Paul's Church was designed by E.W. Pugin and George Ashlin. The church is much loved by Corkonians of every persuasion including children who love to visit the church in order to count its numerous angel motifs that adorn the building. Its Gothic revival architecture sets it apart from other Cork churches. Building work was initiated by the then Parish Priest, Fr. Murphy, of the Murphy Brewery family in 1859. Public subscription contributed to the completion of the church in 1866. The lavish interior was and continues to be a joy to visitors and worshippers alike.

The former Church of Ireland, St. Paul's Church was next on our itinerary. The church, latterly a factory, was built in 1723. Today, it proudly displays its first floor elegant tall round-headed windows. Its entrance is graced by tall ashlar pillars dating from 1785. But what really delighted our group was the building's incredible ornate plaster ceiling. A rare sight indeed.

The former Church of Ireland, St. Peter's and the Catholic Church of St. Augustine's were the subjects of the second half this pleasant morning's tour. St. Peter's is reputedly the oldest church standing in Cork. Today, it serves our city as The Vision Centre. We were given a most interesting talk by Tarquin Blake who introduced us to his exhibition, "Abandoned Mansions of Ireland." Finally, our group, having made our way on foot to the last of four churches, the Catholic Church of St. Augustine. After welcome festive treats such as coffee and mince pies, enjoyed at the priory, we rounded off our morning with a tour of this beautiful 1940's church. Our appreciation was conveyed to our hosts and to Edmund Corrigan for a most seasonal and enjoyable Four Churches Event.