Athenry News & Views Winter 2025

Athenry News & Views The Bell from the Church of Ireland, Monivea By: Marian Hardiman The original Bell from the Church of Ireland in Monivea was removed from its tower and sent to Cregagh Parish in Belfast. An elderly parishioner there recalls its arrival from Galway many years ago. The bell was installed in St. Finnian’s Church, where it has remained in use ever since. The Monivea Heritage Association later made contact with St. Finnian’s, and the parish staff were delighted to rediscover this important link between the two communities. A recent photograph of the bell was kindly shared with Monivea Heritage Association. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the bell was rung daily in support of NHS staff. While it is now operated by an electric switch, it was originally rung using traditional ropes. The removal of the bell was deeply felt in Monivea, where it had played an important role in community life—particularly as it was traditionally rung on New Year’s Eve. In a further point of interest, St. Finnian’s Church is also the parish church of the world-famous footballer, George Best.

St. Finnian’s Church, Cregagh Parish, Belfast and the Monivea Bell which still rings today.

The Trinity Windows

The original Trinity Windows from the Church of Ireland in Monivea were also relocated to St. Thomas’s Church, Dugort (Doogort), Achill, County Mayo.