Knockbride 200th Anniversary
In 2023 it was discussed that two hundred years of Knockbride Church of Ireland’s, current building, should be marked. This spark was ignited but remained untouched until early 2025. Earlier this year ideas were bounced around on how best to mark the occasion and a stark realisation dawned that considerable work was needed on the church building.
Three months ago, that spark became a flame as a committee of hardworking parishioners created an action plan of events and a schedule of works which needed to be done on the church. Following Archdeacon Ian’s departure to the Mullingar Union of Parishes, this committee had to take the baton of responsibility and ensure the planned events would be a success.
Extensive work was completed on the church building. An inclusive wheelchair space was created as part of the congregation, new flooring, dry lining, new carpets, full repaint and a new sound system all quickly came to fruition.
A 3 day event schedule of celebrations was agreed and plans put into action.
Wednesday 13th August- A gospel concert featuring Ballybay Gospel Group & Le Cheile Choir, Cootehill was held. This was a fantastic opening event and set the scene for what was to come.
On Saturday 16th August a vintage car & tractor run took place in conjunction with a vintage day and family fun day. The sun shone and the crowds arrived in droves. Almost 70 vehicles drove the highways and byways of the Knockbride countryside arriving back in the field to a vintage & live threshing display. A local wood turner also displayed his skills.
The family fun day included live music, food vendors, a history talk, photo & video display, children’s play area, face painting, treasure hunt as well as a count the balloons in the tractor competition. The atmosphere, positivity, community integration and uplifting spirit was certainly palpable.
Sunday 17th August concluded celebrations with a service of celebration and thanksgiving led by Bishop Ferran. The service reflected the wonderful talent present in Knockbride as the music, readings, prayers & a poem, written by Lisa Clarke, was read by parishioners. Bishop Ferran reflected on Psalm 16 and how we should be confident in the Lord like David was.
The service concluded with refreshments, served by a hardworking group of ladies, who never wavered all week, and a time to socialise. The weather, again, was fantastic and many visitors, friends and community members rekindled conversations outside in the sunshine.
What started as a spark, years ago, grew into a raging, but magnificent fire. Young & old united willingly and came together to ensure that Knockbride’s 200th Anniversary was marked meticulously.