Phibsborough
It has been brought to our attention that some parishioners are concerned that St Peter’s is closing down in the near future. Allow me to reassure you that this is absolutely not the case. There is much discussion about change and adaptation for the Catholic Church in Dublin generally but this has been in train for some years now and its broad outline is well known concerning the falling number of priests and numbers attending Mass.
However, St Peter’s, Phibsborough is the principal public ministry of the Vincentian Community in Ireland and will remain so.
Admittedly, the closure of the forecourt of the church on account of the work necessary to repair its damaged surface is not a good ‘look’. Closing the forecourt until we are able to repair it is necessary because it is unsafe in its present condition. It will reopen as soon as possible and will improve on what has served until now and will greatly enhance the front of St Peter’s.
St Peter’s Church as it currently stands was built between the early 1840s and the late 1920s. There are several parts to the building and they are aging and wearing in different ways. Major structural work lies ahead of us if we are to preserve and maintain this wonderful building. I appeal for your patience and, indeed, your help. The work necessary on the forecourt will run into tens of thousands of Euro. We are already examining ways of raising this money and we will return to this matter in the near future.
In the meantime, St Peter’s is still open and daily Masses, baptisms, weddings and funerals etc. are still being celebrated. If you have any questions at all please do ask so that we can best allay your concerns.
Paschal Scallon CM