History of the Diocese of Meath (vol. 2)

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Trim receives chalice and paten from Bishop Dopping

   Trim · town · Meath

   Bishop Dopping presented a chalice and paten to Trim as part of his later activities in the diocese.

   Read the passage

   Dopping, Anthony, Bishop of Meath, translation, i., 306 ; sermons, i., 307 ; on loyalty, i., 309 ; another sermon on the same text, i., 311 ; letter to a dissenting minister, i., 314 ; supports Protestantism in Parliament, i., 318 ; imprisons a schoolmaster, i., 319 ; administers the Diocese of Dublin, i., 321 ; resists repeal of the Act of Settlement, i., 322, 331 ; obtains safeguards in searches for arms, i., 324 ; protests against conduct of General Rosen, i., 324 ; accused of inconsistency, i., 334; sermon after the Battle "of the Boyne, ii., i ; reasons with Bishop Otway, ii., 2 ; Form of Prayer during the War, ii,. 2 ; discountenances reprisals, ii., 3 ; collection for poor clergy, ii., fj ; letter from the Bishop of London, ii., 5 ; from Lord Cavan, ii., 6, 7 ; from Lord Drogheda, ii., 8 ; proposed for Archbishopric of Dublin, ii., 10 ; visitation return, ii., 12 ; helps in publication of Irish Bible, ii., 21 ; compiles service for receiving lapsed Protestants, i., 21 ; his later years, ii., 23 ; comparison with Archbishop King, ii., 23 : presentation from his parishioners, ii., 24 ; presents chalice and paten to Trim, ii., 261 ; episcopate, ii., 272 ; compiles list of clergy, ii., 280.

   Dopping, Anthony, Rector of Killucan, ii., 44.

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 151

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Trim in Meath, this town has a small part in the story of Bishop Anthony Dopping. He was Bishop of Meath, and among his many activities recorded in the history of the diocese, he presented a chalice and paten to Trim. Dopping was a busy figure. He preached sermons, supported Protestantism in Parliament, resisted repeal of the Act of Settlement, and protested against the conduct of General Rosen. After the Battle of the Boyne he preached again, and he helped in the publication of the Irish Bible. The record lists his presentation of these communion vessels to Trim alongside the long catalog of his episcopal work, but gives no further detail about the gift itself.

2. Tullamore chapel, Wesley's visit, and dissenting meeting houses

   Tullamore · town · Offaly

   Tullamore is noted as a chapel of ease to Durrow, the site of a visit by John Wesley, and the location of both a Quaker meeting house and a Methodist chapel.

   Read the passage

   Tullamore, chapel of ease to Durrow ii., 48 ; visit of Wesley, ii., 81 glebe, ii., 152, 153 ; church, ii., 154 Quaker meeting house, ii.. 174 Methodist chapel, ii., 174; endowment, ii., 246; clergy, ii., 331.

   Turgesius, i., 50.

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 152

3. Vicar of Trim Seconds Anti-Disestablishment Resolution

   Trim · town · Meath · 1869

   At the 1869 Navan conference, Reverend C. J. Bayly, Vicar of Trim, seconded a resolution protesting against the government measure for disestablishment as containing multitude of secondary injustices to the Irish Church.

   Read the passage

   This was followed by another resolution, proposed by Major Dalton, and seconded by the Reverend C. J. Bayly, Vicar of Trim :

   That this meeting further protests against the government measure, as containing, apart from the primary wrong, a multitude of secondary injustices, and as calculated to oppose great hindrance to the future working of the Irish Church. 3

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 105

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Trim, this is where the Vicar, Reverend C. J. Bayly, made his stand in 1869. At a conference in Navan that year, he seconded a resolution proposed by Major Dalton protesting against the government's disestablishment measure, which he said contained, apart from the primary wrong, a multitude of secondary injustices against the Irish Church.

4. Wesley calls Moate the pleasantest town in Ireland

   Moate · town · Westmeath · 1740–1790

   Though Wesley had only a small congregation in Moate, they were very enthusiastic, and he paid the town the compliment of calling it the pleasantest town he had seen in Ireland.

   Read the passage

   It was principally in the western portions of the diocese that the Methodists established their societies. The following places are all mentioned in John Wesley's Journal as localities that had been visited by that great evangelist : Tullamore, Clara, Moate, Athlone, Tyrrelspass, Ballyboy, Frankford, Ferbane, Mullingar, and Drumcree. To some of these places he only paid a passing visit, but in most of them he established societies, many of which continue to the present day. He seems to have had large congregations wherever he went. In Tullamore, he says that " most of the inhabitants of the town " came to the preaching, and even at five o'clock in the morning " abundance of them " came back again to hear him once more. In Clara he preached to " a vast number of well-behaved people." In Moate he had only a handful of listeners, but they were very enthusiastic, and he pays the place the compliment of saying that it was " the pleasantest town that I have seen in Ireland." But it was at

   1 The information in this chapter is mostly derived from John Wesley's Journal.

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 38

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Moate, you are in a town John Wesley praised highly during his travels through the western parts of the diocese. He visited many places in this region, preaching to large congregations in most of them. In Moate, though, he had only a handful of listeners. But they were very enthusiastic, and he paid the town a striking compliment, calling it, in his own words, "the pleasantest town that I have seen in Ireland."

5. Wesley Praises the Preaching at Athlone Church

   Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1748–1759

   John Wesley, in his Journal, repeatedly commended the preaching he heard at Athlone church, noting sermons on the Fear of God and the Intercession of Christ as plain, useful, and excellent.

   Read the passage

   John Wesley, in" his Journal, speaks more than once of the preaching in Athlone church, of which he seems to have highly approved. On Sunday, May 3rd, 1748, he writes : "At eleven we went to church, and heard a plain, useful sermon." On May yth, 1749, he has the entry, " Athlone. The rector preached in the afternoon (though it is called morning service) a close

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 25

   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is Athlone, where John Wesley came more than once to the church and liked what he heard. On May 3rd, 1748 he wrote in his Journal, "At eleven we went to church, and heard a plain, useful sermon." A year later, May 7th, 1749, he noted the rector preaching in the afternoon what he called a close sermon. He highly approved of the preaching here.

6. Athlone once held daily church services

   Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1799

   Bishop O'Beirne noted that Athlone had once maintained daily services, and queried why this practice had been discontinued as part of his reforms of parish worship.

   Read the passage

   monthly communion. Few of the church festivals were observed, except Christmas Day and Good Friday. In two or three churches they had service on New Year's Day and on Ash Wednesday, but no incumbent mentions service on Ascension Day, nor does Whitsunday seem to have been observed as a time for the celebration of Holy Communion. In all these points Bishop O'Beirne set about effecting whatever improvements were possible. He ordered services to be held in the principal parishes on Wednesdays and Fridays. He notes how in Athlone they used at one time to have daily service, and enquires why this has been discontinued. He calls attention in several places to the disproportion between the church population and the number of communicants. In Enniskeen he found the curious arrangement of the bishop allowing a yearly payment to the dissenting minister for looking after the people. He simply states the fact without any comment. Altogether it must have been a new experience for the clergy of Meath to have a bishop who thus interested himself in every department of the work, and who was a true overseer of the work of God.

   In the matter of education he was equally alert. The Diocesan School was at that time conducted at Trim. The bishop puts down as subjects to be enquired into : " Diocesan Schoolmaster — What the amount of his appointment ? In what state the diocesan school house is, and if he inhabits it ? What number of scholars he keeps, and how many are educated according to the institution ? " At the diocesan visitation the following note is made : — " Rev. Mark Wainwright admonished to have the objects of the school carried fully and bona fide into effect. That for that purpose he give immediate notice that the school is open for

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 74

   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Athlone in Westmeath, there is a church story from 1799. Bishop O'Beirne, overseeing the Diocese of Meath, was pushing reforms of parish worship. Most churches observed few festivals beyond Christmas Day and Good Friday, and he ordered services in principal parishes on Wednesdays and Fridays. He noted that Athlone at one time had daily church services, and he asked why that practice had been discontinued. He also drew attention in several places to the gap between church population and the number of communicants. Altogether, it was a new experience for the clergy of Meath to have a bishop who took such a direct interest in every department of the work.

7. Canon Peacocke consecrated Bishop of Meath at Armagh Cathedral

   near Armagh · town · Armagh · 1894

   Following the death of Bishop Reichel, Canon Peacocke, Rector of Monkstown, was chosen from a select list and consecrated as Bishop of Meath on 11 June 1894 in the Cathedral of Armagh.

   Read the passage

   The Synod then proceeded to the election for which it had been called together, and a select list was formed, consisting of the names of Canon Peacocke, Rector of Monkstown in the Diocese of Dublin ; Canon Keene, Rector of Navan ; and the Very Reverend Hercules H. Dickenson, Dean of the Chapel Royal, and son of a former Bishop of Meath. There was considerable difficulty in coming to a conclusion, as the clergy and laity could not agree as to which name should be supported, but in the end all three names were submitted to the bench of bishops, and the choice of the prelates fell on Canon Peacocke, who was accordingly consecrated on the eleventh of June, 1894, in the Cathedral of Armagh.

   This is not the place to speak of Bishop Peacocke, as he is still amongst us, worthily presiding over the Archdiocese of Dublin, to which he was elected three years later. Suffice it to say that during his short stay in Meath he displayed those remarkable powers of organization which he had displayed as a parish clergyman, both at Saint George's, Dublin, and also at Monkstown. He was quickly winning the confidence of both clergy and laity when he was translated to the higher office which he now fills so well.

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 125

8. Clonard's ruined church replaced by old abbey chancel

   Clonard · town · Meath · 1732–1733

   At Clonard the parish church itself was in ruin, but the large chancel of the old abbey church was used instead, being ceiled, flagged, and fitted with galleries and a decent Communion and altar piece.

   Read the passage

   church is in most decent order. Tis ceiled and flagged and wainscoted. There is a decent pulpit and reading desk, and convenient seats throughout. There is a most beautiful table of polished marble for the Communion, handsomely railed in, and the floor boarded and raised. There is a font of marble, and a chalice, patin, and flagon of silver. There is likewise a good bell to the church, and the churchyard is well enclosed with a wall of stone and lime." Of Moynalty church a similar good report is given : ' The church is handsome and lofty ; the roof and walls firm and good. It is well flagged and furnished with decent seats, a font of stone, a Communion Table decently railed in, and the floor raised and boarded." In Clonard the church was in ruin, but the large chancel (evidently of the old abbey church) was used instead of it. " It is ceiled and flagged, and has galleries, besides a decent Communion and altar piece. The whole inside of the chancel is very beautiful and convenient."

   The record is not quite so good in every case. Enniskeen was then, as now, an important parish. It had fifty-two families of church people, and fiftyfour families of " Protestant dissenters." The church is thus described : " The church is roofed, the walls and timber good. It is slated, but in some places stripped by the winds to which 'tis much exposed. 'Tis very spacious, but intirely naked. There was a pulpit, but taken down by some former curate as being too small. No reading desk. Only one seat, and the whole floor of the church a dirty earthen floor." The bishop was himself in receipt of the tithes of this parish, and we might have expected that he would have seen that it was kept in decent order, but it was situated on the confines of the diocese, and apparently

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Clonard, there is an old abbey whose chancel was doing duty as the parish church in 1732. The parish church itself had fallen into ruin, so the large chancel of the old abbey church was used in its place. It was ceiled and flagged, and fitted with galleries, a decent Communion table, and an altar piece. The whole inside was described as very beautiful and convenient.

9. Diocesan School conducted at Trim under Rev. Mark Wainwright

   Trim · town · Meath · 1799

   The Diocesan School was based at Trim, and the bishop admonished schoolmaster Rev. Mark Wainwright to properly open the school for day boys and prepare for boarders.

   Read the passage

   In the matter of education he was equally alert. The Diocesan School was at that time conducted at Trim. The bishop puts down as subjects to be enquired into : " Diocesan Schoolmaster — What the amount of his appointment ? In what state the diocesan school house is, and if he inhabits it ? What number of scholars he keeps, and how many are educated according to the institution ? " At the diocesan visitation the following note is made : — " Rev. Mark Wainwright admonished to have the objects of the school carried fully and bona fide into effect. That for that purpose he give immediate notice that the school is open for

   Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 74

   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Trim, this was where the Diocesan School was conducted, under Rev. Mark Wainwright. In 1799 the bishop wanted answers: what the schoolmaster's appointment amounted to, what state the school house was in, whether he inhabited it, and how many scholars he kept and educated according to the institution. At the diocesan visitation Wainwright was admonished to have the objects of the school carried fully and, in the bishop's words, "bona fide into effect." He was to give immediate notice that the school was open for day boys, with preparation made for boarders. The bishop was alert to whether the school was doing what it was meant to do.

10. Enniskeen paid a stipend to a dissenting minister

    Enniskeen · parish · Meath · 1799

    At Enniskeen the bishop found the unusual arrangement whereby a yearly payment was made to the dissenting minister for looking after the people, which he recorded without comment.

    Read the passage

    monthly communion. Few of the church festivals were observed, except Christmas Day and Good Friday. In two or three churches they had service on New Year's Day and on Ash Wednesday, but no incumbent mentions service on Ascension Day, nor does Whitsunday seem to have been observed as a time for the celebration of Holy Communion. In all these points Bishop O'Beirne set about effecting whatever improvements were possible. He ordered services to be held in the principal parishes on Wednesdays and Fridays. He notes how in Athlone they used at one time to have daily service, and enquires why this has been discontinued. He calls attention in several places to the disproportion between the church population and the number of communicants. In Enniskeen he found the curious arrangement of the bishop allowing a yearly payment to the dissenting minister for looking after the people. He simply states the fact without any comment. Altogether it must have been a new experience for the clergy of Meath to have a bishop who thus interested himself in every department of the work, and who was a true overseer of the work of God.

    In the matter of education he was equally alert. The Diocesan School was at that time conducted at Trim. The bishop puts down as subjects to be enquired into : " Diocesan Schoolmaster — What the amount of his appointment ? In what state the diocesan school house is, and if he inhabits it ? What number of scholars he keeps, and how many are educated according to the institution ? " At the diocesan visitation the following note is made : — " Rev. Mark Wainwright admonished to have the objects of the school carried fully and bona fide into effect. That for that purpose he give immediate notice that the school is open for

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 74

11. Formation of the Union of Ratoath and Holy Trinity Church

    Ratoath · town · Meath · 1682–1821

    The Union of Ratoath, comprising Crikstown, Cookstown, Killegland, Donaghmore, and Greenogue, was formed in 1682, and its Church (Holy Trinity) was consecrated in 1821.

    Read the passage

    The Union of Ratoath, Crikstown, Cookstown, Killegland, Donaghmore, and Greenogue was formed in 1682. The Church (Holy Trinity) was consecrated in 1821. Kilbrew and Tryvett were united in 1678, but at disestablishment the latter was transferred to Dunshaughlin. The Church was built in the eighteenth century, and is now disused. Kilmoon and Piercetown Landy were united in 1826. The Church (St. Munna) was built in 1816. The present Union was formed in 1885.

    RATOATH. 1887 John Howlin Montserrat.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 150

12. Kells church body in ruin, chancel repaired

    Kells · town · Meath · 1693

    At Kells the situation was reversed from Trim: the chancel was in repair while the body of the church itself lay in ruin, according to the 1693 visitation return.

    Read the passage

    Of course, there are some reports more favourable than these, but it is hard to find one in which the record is altogether satisfactory. In Trim the church was in good repair, and the services constantly maintained, but the chancel was in ruin. In Kells, on the other hand, the chancel was in repair, and the body 01 the church in ruin. In several cases we are told that the services were regularly conducted, though both church and chancel were in ruin. For the most part no information is given as to where the parishioners assembled. Sometimes, however, we are told that they met in the porch, as in the case of Duleek just quoted. In Kentstown also, the porch was able to accommodate the few parishioners who came to church. In other places, we learn that they met in private houses. This was the usage at Rathmolyon, Kilberry, Moynalty, and a few other places. At Stackallen they made use of the private chapel of Mr. Serjeant Osburn. At Navan they repaired the Mass house, and held their service there. No general effort seems to have been made as yet to rebuild the churches.

    Bishop Dopping sums up these several reports by telling us that the diocese contained one hundred and ninety-seven parish churches and one hundred and six chapels of ease, but only forty-three churches in all

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 10

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kells in Meath, the old church here had an odd fate recorded in the 1693 visitation return. It was the reverse of what they found at Trim, where the church body stood in good repair and the chancel lay in ruin. At Kells the chancel was in repair, but the body of the church itself was in ruin. Bishop Dopping compiled these reports across the diocese, which held 197 parish churches and 106 chapels of ease, with only 43 churches in all left standing. No general effort had yet been made to rebuild.

13. Kells church furniture fully catalogued

    Kells · town · Meath · 1732–1733

    The report on Kells gives the most complete inventory of church furniture in the diocese, listing a railed Communion table, silver chalice and patin, pewter flagons, stone font, surplice, Bible, prayer books, and parish registers.

    Read the passage

    As to church furniture, the most complete account is that given of the parish of Kells. " The Communion table is railed in, but the place is too scanty, and admits but a very small number of communicants. There is a decent carpet, and fair linen cloth ; a silver chalice and patin, and two flagons of pewter ; a stone font, a surplice, a Bible, two Common Prayer Books, a Book of Canons, a book wherein are registered the christenings, marriages and burials, and another wherein are entered the acts of the vestry ; there are convenient boxes for collecting the alms." In nearly all the churches the presence or absence of a " carpet " is noted. The word is not used in the sense in which we now employ it, but in the obsolete sense of a table cloth. We still speak of a thing being " on the carpet," when we mean that it is under discussion. The

    40 HISTORY OF THE DIOCESE OF MEATH

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Kells, this town had the fullest church inventory in the whole diocese back in 1732. The report lists a railed Communion table, though it notes the place was too scanty and admitted but a very small number of communicants. There was a silver chalice and patin, two pewter flagons, a stone font, a surplice, a Bible, two Common Prayer Books, and a Book of Canons. The parish kept registers of christenings, marriages and burials, and a separate book for the acts of the vestry, with convenient boxes for collecting the alms. One detail worth noting is the word carpet, which appears in nearly all the church reports. It did not mean a floor covering as it does now. It meant a table cloth. We still speak of a thing being on the carpet when it is under discussion, and that older sense is the one used here.

14. Navan incumbent forced to lodge outside the town

    Navan · town · Meath · 1732–1733

    Navan lacked a glebe house, forcing the incumbent to find his own accommodation; he had originally resided in the town but later moved to lodgings in the country, causing local offence.

    Read the passage

    Navan was then, as now, without a glebe house and the incumbent was forced to procure a dwelling for himself as best he could. We are told that " the incumbent resided at first in the town of Navan, but since has removed to lodging in the country, which gives offence."

    The following description of Taughmon church and parson is somewhat amusing : —

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan, this town had no glebe house in 1732, so the incumbent had to find his own dwelling. He lived in the town at first, but then moved to lodgings in the country, which, as the record puts it, "gives offence."

15. Oldcastle taken by Lord Broghill

    Oldcastle · town · Meath

    Oldcastle was captured by Lord Broghill; the settlement later saw Methodism take root and had a Methodist chapel.

    Read the passage

    Oldcastle taken by Lord Broghill, i, 293 ; Methodism at, ii., 85 ; cathechizing, ii., 145 ; parish clerk, ii., 146; glebe, ii., 153 ; church, ii., 154 ; Methodist chapel, ii., 174; clergy,

    ii- 3i5-

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 152

16. Old paten at Eglish dated 1559, oldest dated plate

    Eglish · townland · Donegal · 1559–1775

    The church of Eglish possesses an old paten bearing the date 1559 on the back and an inscription of 1775 on the front, believed to be the oldest dated piece of church plate in the diocese.

    Read the passage

    The church of Eglish has an old paten, which bears on the back the date 1559. On the front it has the inscription : "Ye Church at Eglish, 1775." There is no hall-mark. The curate in charge informs me that he has shown it to a friend who is somewhat of an expert, and that he thinks that it was very probably made in the year 1559, and given to Eglish in 1775. If this surmise be correct, it is the oldest dated piece of plate that we possess. The same church has a flagon which is somewhat remarkable. It is nine inches high, like a tankard, with a lid attached by a hinge, and a handle at one side. The bottom is of oak. The rural dean remarks, "It is doubtful if this is an ecclesiastical vessel at all. It is like an old pewter pot in shape." Very probably it was not originally intended for church use, for in those old days they frequently employed vessels that we would not now consider suitable for the service of 'the Holy Communion. The chalice and paten formerly belonging to the disused church of Knockmark are held on loan by this parish. The chalice is inscribed : " This Chalice and Stand belong to the Parish Church of Knockmark, 1819." The paten has, " This Stand and Chalice belong to the Parish Church of Knockmark 1819." The peculiar use of the word " stand " is worthy of notice.

    There is in the parish of Durrow a chalice, which, from the hall-marks, appears to be of the date 1632 or 1633. The Rev. S. de C. Williams writes concerning it, " It has the letters B.T. rather coarsely but deeply cut on it, almost obliterating some letters finely engraved, which look like F.G. From a comparison between the two inscriptions, it only requires a slight effort of the imagination to think of B.T. as a vulgar upstart, who thought he could take the place of a man of culture and refinement by seeking to obliterate his initials by putting his own over them. Beneath this double pair of initials are the letters C.M., engraved in the same way as the letters, which I think are F.G. The silver in this chalice is still fairly thick, but the hall-mark was stamped so deeply in it on the

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 135

17. Presbyterian churches at Enniskeen, Laracor and Mullingar

    Laracor · townland · Meath · 1834

    The 1834 religious census of the Diocese of Meath records Presbyterian churches located at Enniskeen, Laracor, and Mullingar, alongside the much larger Church of Ireland and Roman Catholic populations.

    Read the passage

    The total population of the Diocese of Meath in 1834 was 104,059. Of these, 25,626 were church people, 77,562 were Roman Catholics, 672 were Presbyterians, and other dissenting bodies numbered 199. The Presbyterians had churches in Enniskeen, Laracor, and Mullingar. There were Quaker meeting houses in Moate and Tullamore. The other Dissenters nearly all attended church service, and most of them, especially the Methodists — both Primitive and Wesleyan — called themselves church people. The Primitive Methodist meeting-house in the parish of Clara was made use of by the incumbent at Christmas and Easter for the administration of the Holy Communion to remote parishioners. There were Wesleyan chapels in Kingscourt, Clara, Banagher, Mullingar, Athlone, Tullamore, Tyrrelspass, and Kilkenny West. The Primitive Methodists had chapels at Oldcastle, Athlone, Tullamore, and Clara. The Baptists had chapels at Clara, Banagher, Athlone, and Rahue (in the parish of Ardnurcher) .

    Among the Acts of Parliament which were passed affecting the church, the most important was the Church Temporalities Act, which became law in 1833.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 91

18. Quaker meeting houses established at Moate and Tullamore

    Moate · town · Westmeath · 1834

    As part of the religious census of the diocese around 1834, Quaker meeting houses are recorded as existing in the towns of Moate and Tullamore.

    Read the passage

    The total population of the Diocese of Meath in 1834 was 104,059. Of these, 25,626 were church people, 77,562 were Roman Catholics, 672 were Presbyterians, and other dissenting bodies numbered 199. The Presbyterians had churches in Enniskeen, Laracor, and Mullingar. There were Quaker meeting houses in Moate and Tullamore. The other Dissenters nearly all attended church service, and most of them, especially the Methodists — both Primitive and Wesleyan — called themselves church people. The Primitive Methodist meeting-house in the parish of Clara was made use of by the incumbent at Christmas and Easter for the administration of the Holy Communion to remote parishioners. There were Wesleyan chapels in Kingscourt, Clara, Banagher, Mullingar, Athlone, Tullamore, Tyrrelspass, and Kilkenny West. The Primitive Methodists had chapels at Oldcastle, Athlone, Tullamore, and Clara. The Baptists had chapels at Clara, Banagher, Athlone, and Rahue (in the parish of Ardnurcher) .

    Among the Acts of Parliament which were passed affecting the church, the most important was the Church Temporalities Act, which became law in 1833.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 91

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Moate now. In 1834, a religious census of the Diocese of Meath recorded Quaker meeting houses in the towns of Moate and Tullamore. The census counted 104,059 people across the diocese, of whom 77,562 were Roman Catholic and 25,626 were Church of Ireland. The Quakers were a small presence, but they had their own places of worship here. That is all the record tells us.

19. Roger Dod died and buried at Ardbraccan

    Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1608

    Bishop Roger Dod, Dean of Shrewsbury, died in 1608 and was buried at Ardbraccan.

    Read the passage

    1605. Roger Dod, Dean of Shrewsbury, was appointed in 1606. He died and was buried at Ardbraccan in 1608.

    1611. George Montgomery, Dean of Norwich and Chaplain to King James I., was consecrated to the Bishoprics of Derry, Raphoe, and Clogher in 1605. He was translated to Meath in 1611, the See having been some time vacant after the death of Roger Dod. He continued at the same time to hold the See of Clogher. He died in London in 1620, but was brought for burial to Ardbraccan, where his tomb may still be seen.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 142

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here lies Roger Dod. He was Dean of Shrewsbury before being appointed bishop in 1606, and he died just two years later in 1608. He was buried at Ardbraccan, and after his death the See of Meath stayed vacant for some time, until George Montgomery was translated to it in 1611.

20. Skirmish and rebel attack at Moynalty

    Moynalty · townland · Meath

    Moynalty was the site of a skirmish, and troops led by the Bishop of Meath passed through; the parish church and glebe are also recorded.

    Read the passage

    Moynalty, union of , i., 104; troops led by the Bishop of Meath at, i., 202 ; rectory, i., 216 ; church, i., 243 ; ii., 14, 38; curate, i., 247; catechizing, ii., 43 ; skirmish at, ii., 107 ; plate, ii., 262 ; clergy, ii., 283.

    Moyvore, i., 125.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 152

21. Vicarages endowed following forfeitures for rebellion

    Ratoath · town · Meath · 1702–1714

    Under Queen Anne, tithes of some impropriate parishes were restored to the Church after impropriators were deprived for rebellion, endowing the vicarages of Dunamore, Ratoath, Culmullin, Moyglare, and Kilcormuck (Frankford).

    Read the passage

    to the Church.6 Under the same queen the tithes of some impropriate parishes were restored to the Church, the impropriators having been deprived for rebellion. In this way the vicarages were endowed of Dunamore, Ratoath, Culmullin, Moyglare, and Kilcormuck (Frankford).

    Nor was it only in material ways that the Church prospered. Her bishops became more active than before, and this in turn reacted on the clergy. King, now become Archbishop of Dublin, writing to one of his suffragans in 1706, says : — " I do own that the clergy are altered as to their demeanour towards their bishops of late, of which several reasons may be given ; one particularly is, the bishops being altered towards them. Time was when they were left to themselves, and might do, or not, their duty as they pleased. But of late some bishops have begun to look more narrowly into their practice, and to press their duty on them." ^

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 19

22. Athboy church described as in decent repair

    Athboy · town · Meath · 1732–1733

    Bishop Ellis's report describes the church at Athboy as ceiled with a flagged aisle, a handsome gallery, stone font, and a churchyard adorned with walks and evergreens enclosed by a stone wall. The account reflects the restoration of church buildings in the diocese by the early 18th century.

    Read the passage

    as the number of clergy in the diocese at the present time. This comparison enables us to measure to some extent how far the church had recovered from the long-continued troubles of the seventeenth century. In the more important parishes there had evidently been a good work of restoration going on. Of Athboy, for instance, we are told, " The church of this union, which is in the town of Athboy, is in very decent repair. 'Tis ceiled and the isle is flagged. There is a decent pulpit and reading desk, and the church is seated throughout, and has a handsome gallery besides. There is a font of stone, and the Communion Table decently railed in. There is a decent carpet (tablecover) for the Communion, a chalice and patin of plate, and flagon of pewter. There are likewise two bells. The churchyard in beautifull order, adorned with walks and evergreens, and planted with trees, and enclosed with a good stone wall." Of Mullingar he says : " The church is in very good order, and furnished with everything necessary for the celebration of Divine service. The chancel is in repair, but not used. 'Tis separated from the body of the church by a partition, against which the Communion Table is fixed. The churchyard is well enclosed with a stone wall, and planted with trees." This arrangement of not using the chancel is curious, but a similar state of things existed in Kells church up to the time of disestablishment. Nearly all the larger churches are described in much the same way, and we may, therefore, conclude they were on the whole in excellent condition.

    Many of the smaller churches were equally well

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

23. Athlone flagon given by Henry St. George, 1702

    Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1702

    A large flagon at Athlone, showing hard usage with a crushed lower part and lid removed roughly with a chisel, bears the inscription recording its gift by Henry St. George to St. Mary's Parish Church in 1702.

    Read the passage

    There is besides at Athlone a paten, probably also of the seventeenth century. It has no inscription. The other plate is interesting, though not so old. The flagon is large, and seems to have had at one time somewhat hard usage. The lower part is much crushed, and the lid, which was originally attached by a hinge, appears to have been taken off roughly with a chisel. The hall-marks are not legible. The inscription reads : " The gift of Henry St. George, brother to Arthur St. George, Esq., to the Parish and Parish Church of St. Mary, Athlone, Anno 1702, The Revd. Edward Wallen being Rector." There is also a large flat paten, of the same date, with the inscription : " Ex dono Francisci Lambert ad usum Ecclesiae St. Mariae, Athlone, 22 Junij 1702." Athlone also possesses a large heavy alms dish, with the inscription :

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 134

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Athlone in Westmeath, the parish church of St. Mary holds a large flagon given in 1702 by Henry St. George, brother to Arthur St. George. It has seen hard usage over the years. The lower part is much crushed, and the lid, once attached by a hinge, was taken off roughly with a chisel. The hall-marks are no longer legible. The inscription records the gift to the parish and parish church of St. Mary, Athlone, in 1702, when the Reverend Edward Wallen was rector. There is also a paten from the same period, given by Francis Lambert for the use of St. Mary's on 22 June 1702.

24. Bishop Hugh O'Malone buried at Kilbeggan

    Kilbeggan · town · Westmeath · 1236

    Hugh O'Malone, Bishop of Clonmacnoise, died in 1236 and was buried at Kilbeggan.

    Read the passage

    Moriertach O'Melider, was present at the Synod of Kells in 1152. He died in 1188, but resigned some time before his death. Tigernac, died in 1172. Muirigen O'Muirigen, died in 1213. Edan O'Maily, died in 1220. 1220. Melrony O'Modein, died in 1230. 1230. Hugh O'Malone, died in 1236, and was buried at

    Kilbeggan. Elias, mentioned as predecessor of Thomas in State

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 144

    As the companion tells it

    You're coming through Kilbeggan now. Back in 1236 Hugh O'Malone, Bishop of Clonmacnoise, died and was buried here in this town. He was one in a line of bishops stretching back to Moriertach O'Melider, who was at the Synod of Kells in 1152.

25. Canon Keene consecrated Bishop of Meath at Armagh

    near Armagh · town · Armagh · 1897

    After Bishop Peacocke's translation to Dublin, the Synod elected Canon Keene, Rector of Navan, who was consecrated at Armagh on 17 October 1897 and continued to preside over the See.

    Read the passage

    MEATH has had more experience of episcopal elections than any other diocese in Ireland. On the translation of Doctor Peacocke to the See of Dublin she was called on for the fourth time to elect a bishop. Again it was found impossible to obtain a two-thirds majority for any one name, and accordingly two names were sent up to the Bench of Bishops by the Synod which met on the tenth of August, 1897. These were the Reverend Canon Keene, Rector of Navan, and the Reverend Doctor Bernard, Archbishop King's Professor of Divinity in Trinity College. Of these Canon Keene was chosen, and he was accordingly consecrated at Armagh on the seventeenth of October in the same year. He still presides over the See in which most of his ministerial life has been spent, and it is the prayer of his many friends that he may be long spared to fill that exalted position. It would be out of place to speak of his qualifications or character. It may suffice to say that his college record has rarely been equalled, and that the range of subjects in which he distinguished himself shows a versatility of powers which few can boast. He obtained the highest distinctions in every subject that he studied, and these included Classics, Mathematics, Ethics, Hebrew, and Divinity. No further explanation need be desired of the fact that the clergy, almost unanimously, and the laity, by a large majority, wished to have him as their bishop.

    A FINAL RETROSPECT 24!

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 126

26. Diocesan churches perform frequent weekday services in 1833

    Kells · town · Meath · 1833

    Six churches in the diocese, including those at Kells, Mullingar, Navan, and Trim, held additional Wednesday and Friday services, while Athlone church held a service every Friday, reflecting an active liturgical schedule during Bishop Alexander's episcopate.

    Read the passage

    In the ninety-nine churches in this diocese, divine service is celebrated, in nine of them twice on all Sundays ; in fortythree, twice on Sundays in summer and once in winter ; and in forty-seven once on all Sundays during the year, exclusive of the celebration of service in each on the principal festivals. In six of these churches, viz. : Kells, Kilbride-Tullamore, Mullingar, Navan, Rathgraffe, and Trim, there is one service

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 90

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kells, it's worth knowing that in 1833, during Bishop Alexander's time, this was one of six churches in the Diocese of Meath holding extra weekday services on Wednesdays and Fridays. Mullingar, Navan, and Trim did the same, while Athlone held a service every Friday. Across the diocese's ninety-nine churches, Sunday services ran at varying frequency, but these six kept a fuller liturgical schedule through the week.

27. Diocesan Synod meets at Fishamble Street and Christchurch Place to elect bishop

    Fishamble Street · street · Dublin · 1876

    Before the synod assembled to elect a new bishop, members celebrated Holy Communion in Saint John's Church, Fishamble Street, Dublin, then convened at the Synod Hall, Christchurch Place, for the election of the bishop of Meath in 1876.

    Read the passage

    Before the synod assembled, the members met together for the celebration of the Holy Communion in Saint John's Church, Fishamble Street, Dublin. Then, under the presidency of the Lord Primate, and with the Right Honourable J. T. Ball, LL.D., acting as assessor, the synod met in the Synod Hall, Christchurch Place, for the serious and responsible task of electing a new bishop.

    On the first voting, which was to form a select list, it was found that five names were to be included. These were, Lord Plunket, who obtained 94 lay and 43 clerical votes ; the Very Reverend Achilles Daunt, Dean of Cork, who had 81 lay and 41 clerical votes ; the Venerable Doctor Reichel, Archdeacon of Meath, who was supported by 46 clergyman and 19 laymen ; the Reverend Doctor Bell, Rector of Kells, who obtained 29 clerical and 18 lay votes, and the Reverend Canon Jellett, afterwards Dean of Saint Patrick's, who was voted for by 30 of the clergy and 21 of the laity. It was easily seen from these numbers that the choice lay practically between Lord Plunket and the Dean of Cork. Accordingly, on the second voting, few suffrages were given to any of the other candidates. Lord Plunket obtained this time 84 lay votes and 56 clerical, while Dean Daunt was supported by 46 laymen and 22 clergymen. This showed that Lord Plunket had obtained a decided majority over the dean, but

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 116

    As the companion tells it

    Along here, in 1876, members of the diocesan synod gathered in Saint John's Church to celebrate Holy Communion before one of the most consequential votes in the Diocese of Meath. They were there to elect a new bishop, and afterwards they moved to the Synod Hall at Christchurch Place, where the Lord Primate presided and the Right Honourable J. T. Ball acted as assessor. On the first vote, five names made the select list. Lord Plunket led with 94 lay and 43 clerical votes, followed by the Very Reverend Achilles Daunt, Dean of Cork, with 81 lay and 41 clerical votes. The Venerable Doctor Reichel, Archdeacon of Meath, had 46 clergy and 19 lay supporters. The Reverend Doctor Bell, Rector of Kells, got 29 clerical and 18 lay votes, and Canon Jellett, later Dean of Saint Patrick's, drew 30 clergy and 21 lay. It was clear the contest was truly between Lord Plunket and Dean Daunt. On the second ballot, the other candidates faded. Lord Plunket took 84 lay and 56 clerical votes, while Dean Daunt managed 46 lay and 22 clerical. Lord Plunket had his majority.

28. Diocesan Synod meets in Navan and Mullingar

    Navan · town · Meath · 1870

    The first Diocesan Synod, formed under the Irish Church Convention rules, met initially in Dublin and was later reconvened in two parts, with the Meath portion meeting in Navan and the Westmeath portion in Mullingar.

    Read the passage

    met again later in the year in two parts — the Meath portion in Navan, and the Westmeath portion in Mullingar. The resolutions adopted at this synod were all of a business-like character ; they denned the duties of the Diocesan Council, as well as the number of members, and the mode of their election. They directed the council to carry into effect the resolutions with regard to finance which had been adopted by the General Convention, and for that purpose to promote parochial organization for the collection of subscriptions and donations to the sustentation fund ; they also asked the council to report on the subject of the rearrangement of benefices, and to prepare a list of churches, glebe-houses, and other church property that was to be claimed from the government. They recommended the clergy to commute, so as to gain the financial advantages which were thereby secured. These resolutions, together with the election of the Diocesan Council and of the Board of Patronage for the diocese, seem to have fully occupied their time.

    The Diocesan Council met for the first time at 8 Dawson Street, Dublin, on Wednesday, the twentyfourth of August, 1870, and set at once to work, meeting regularly every month, until after the first arrangements were completed, it was not deemed necessary for them to meet so often.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 111

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan in County Meath, this is where the Meath portion of the Diocesan Synod met in 1870, under the Irish Church Convention rules. The synod had first gathered in Dublin and was later reconvened in two parts, Meath here in Navan and Westmeath in Mullingar. The resolutions passed were all business-like in character. They defined the duties of the Diocesan Council, its number of members, and the mode of their election. The council was directed to carry into effect the financial resolutions of the General Convention and to promote parochial organization for collecting subscriptions and donations to the sustentation fund. The synod also asked the council to report on the rearrangement of benefices and to prepare a list of churches, glebe-houses, and other church property to be claimed from the government. The clergy were recommended to commute in order to gain the financial advantages thereby secured. These resolutions, together with the election of the Diocesan Council and the Board of Patronage for the diocese, seem to have fully occupied their time. The Diocesan Council then met for the first time at 8 Dawson Street, Dublin, on the 24th of August, 1870.

29. Diocesan Synod of Meath held at Trim, 1747

    Trim · town · Meath · 1747

    The annual synod of the clergy of the Diocese of Meath was held in the Parish Church of Trim on 11 June 1747 before Bishop Henry Maule, attended by sixty-six clergy, where dinner fees and proxy arrangements for visitations were agreed.

    Read the passage

    Acts had and sped in the annual synod of the clergy of the Diocese of Meath, held in the Parish Church of Tryme, in the said Diocese of Meath, on Thursday next following the Feast of Pentecost, to wit, the eleventh day of June, in the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and forty and seven, before the said Right Reverend ffather in God Henry by Divine Permission Lord Bishop of Meath, and in presence of me, John Harris, Register of the said diocese.

    (Here follow sixty-six names of clergy attending.)

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 48

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up through Trim, where the annual synod of the Diocese of Meath was held in the parish church on Thursday the 11th of June 1747. Bishop Henry Maule presided, and John Harris, the diocese's register, recorded the proceedings. Sixty-six clergy attended, their names set down in the record that follows.

30. Doctor Joly's endowment of Castlejordan parish

    Castlejordan · townland · Meath

    Among laymen notable for service to the diocese, Doctor Joly is remembered for his liberality by which the parish of Castlejordan was endowed.

    Read the passage

    attendants at the meetings, and transacted much of the financial business. His successor in the office of Diocesan Treasurer, Mr. Edward Dames Longworth, has also, quite lately, passed from us, his life, which promised so much of usefulness, being cut off unexpectedly in its prime. Other names that should be mentioned are Doctor Joly, by whose liberality the parish of Castlejordan has been endowed, Mr. Richard Chaloner, Mr. John Tisdall, Judge Gamble, Colonel Cooper, Mr. G. A. Rochfort Boyd, and Mr. J. L. Naper. There are many others that might be noted, for there is scarcely a parish in the diocese that has not had some who have rendered conspicuous service to the Church. As we look back on those years since disestablishment we may say of the churchmen of Meath as a body that they were men of whom any diocese might be proud.

    Among the clergy, too, there are names that deserve remembrance. The Reverend Canon Bell, Rector of Kells, and his brother, the Reverend James A. Bell, Rector of Banagher, were both remarkable men. Of Canon Bell we have already seen that his was one of the names put forward when the bishopric was vacant, and the position which he held in the diocese may be judged from the number of votes cast in his favour, even when against such a formidable rival as Bishop Reichel. He was in his day one of the best preachers in the Irish Church. Shortly after the episcopal election he resigned his parish, but retained his position as representative Canon in Saint Patrick's National Cathedral. In his last days he suffered much from a long and painful illness, which he bore with wonderful resignation and fortitude. His brother James was almost equally gifted as a preacher, and was besides a brilliant scholar. He left the diocese to

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 129

31. Duleek church floor of bare earth

    Duleek · town · Meath · 1732–1733

    Duleek's church had no Communion table, no railed space, no flagging or flooring where the table should stand, and nothing but the common earth was visible beneath the seats, with no Communion utensils at all.

    Read the passage

    In several churches the provision for the celebration of Holy Communion was exceedingly poor and inadequate. At Syddan the flagon and chalice were of block tin. At Knockmark there was " no Communion table nor place railed in for it, nor raised, no linen or carpet, nor flagon ; there is a chalice of pewter." Duleek was even worse. " No Communion table nor place railed in for it, nor is there any flagging or flooring in the place where the table should stand, nor elsewhere in the church, saving in the seats, and nothing

    " STATE OF MEATH " UNDER BISHOP ELLIS 41

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

32. Hugh Brady buried at Dunboyne church

    Dunboyne · town · Meath · 1583

    Bishop Hugh Brady died at Dunboyne in 1583 and was buried in the church of that parish.

    Read the passage

    1563. Hugh Brady was consecrated in 1563, and died at Dunboyne in 1583. He is buried in the church of that parish.

    1584. Thomas Jones, Dean of Saint Patrick's, Dublin, was consecrated in 1548. In 1605 he was translated to the Archbishopric of Dublin.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 142

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Dunboyne in Meath, this town has a quiet claim. Hugh Brady, consecrated bishop in 1563, died here in 1583 and was buried in the church of this parish.

33. Kells church plate commemorates St. Columba

    Kells · town · Meath · 1738

    The collecting plates of Kells church bear an engraved dove in reference to St. Columba, founder of the church, with an inscription dated 1738.

    Read the passage

    Kells. Deo O. M. D.D.A. Georgius Lewis, Archdiaconus Meidensis. Anno 1724." The Chalice has, " In usum Ecclesiae Christi apud Kells. Deo O. M. D.D.D. Georgius Lewis, Archdiaconus Meidensis. 1727." The paten has simply the letters I.H.S. with a cross enclosed in halo. There are, besides, two collecting plates, with a dove engraved, evidently in reference to the founder of the church, St. Columba, and around it the words, " For the Church of Kells, May the 8th, 1738." All these are of English plate.

    The church of Clonard has a chalice presented in 1677, and repaired in 1796. It has two inscriptions recording these facts. " Ex dono Susanna Loftus, April i5th, anno 1677 ; " and " Renew'd by Lady Jane Loftus, June 22nd, 1796." The hall-mark is of the date 1795, showing that the cup is of later date than the base. There is also a paten, with the inscription, ' The Gift of Lettice Loftus to ye Church of Clonard 1718."

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 137

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kells, you are in a town whose church plate still carries an old story. The collecting plates bear an engraved dove, a reference to St. Columba, the founder of the church. Around the dove runs the inscription,

34. Kentstown parishioners worship in the church porch

    Kentstown · townland · Meath · 1693

    At Kentstown the porch of the ruined church was large enough to accommodate the small number of parishioners who attended services in 1693.

    Read the passage

    Of course, there are some reports more favourable than these, but it is hard to find one in which the record is altogether satisfactory. In Trim the church was in good repair, and the services constantly maintained, but the chancel was in ruin. In Kells, on the other hand, the chancel was in repair, and the body 01 the church in ruin. In several cases we are told that the services were regularly conducted, though both church and chancel were in ruin. For the most part no information is given as to where the parishioners assembled. Sometimes, however, we are told that they met in the porch, as in the case of Duleek just quoted. In Kentstown also, the porch was able to accommodate the few parishioners who came to church. In other places, we learn that they met in private houses. This was the usage at Rathmolyon, Kilberry, Moynalty, and a few other places. At Stackallen they made use of the private chapel of Mr. Serjeant Osburn. At Navan they repaired the Mass house, and held their service there. No general effort seems to have been made as yet to rebuild the churches.

    Bishop Dopping sums up these several reports by telling us that the diocese contained one hundred and ninety-seven parish churches and one hundred and six chapels of ease, but only forty-three churches in all

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 10

35. Kilbrew church built and later disused

    Kilbrew · townland · Meath · 1678

    Kilbrew and Tryvett were united in 1678, though at disestablishment Tryvett was transferred to Dunshaughlin; the Kilbrew church was built in the eighteenth century and was disused by the time of writing.

    Read the passage

    The Union of Ratoath, Crikstown, Cookstown, Killegland, Donaghmore, and Greenogue was formed in 1682. The Church (Holy Trinity) was consecrated in 1821. Kilbrew and Tryvett were united in 1678, but at disestablishment the latter was transferred to Dunshaughlin. The Church was built in the eighteenth century, and is now disused. Kilmoon and Piercetown Landy were united in 1826. The Church (St. Munna) was built in 1816. The present Union was formed in 1885.

    RATOATH. 1887 John Howlin Montserrat.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 150

36. Kinnegad taken by Sir Charles Coote

    Kinnegad · town · Westmeath

    Kinnegad was captured by Sir Charles Coote during a military campaign, according to the historical record referenced in the index.

    Read the passage

    Kinnegad, taken by Sir Charles Coote, i., 293 ; curate, ii., 141 ; clergy, ii., 321.

    Kirwan, Dean, ii., 156.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 152

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Kinnegad in Westmeath. The record tells us only that this place was taken by Sir Charles Coote, but gives no date and no detail of the fighting. That is all the source holds.

37. Non-resident Rector of Kells held second parish in Ossory

    Kells · town · Meath · 1799

    As part of the widespread problem of pluralities and non-residence in the Diocese of Meath around 1799, the Rector of Kells is recorded as also holding a parish in the Diocese of Ossory, meaning he could not have resided fully in Kells.

    Read the passage

    non-residence. We have seen that these two evils had clung to the Church through all its history from the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion. It was never more rife than at this time. There was scarcely an important parish in Meath the incumbent of which did not possess another parish in a different diocese. Some of these lived in Meath, and were non-resident elsewhere. Others served their Meath charge by means of a curate. Others, again, wholly neglected their duty, and left their people without any spiritual provision. The Rector of Kells, for example, had a parish also in Ossory. The Incumbent of Navan lived in the Diocese of Armagh, and had a parish there. The incumbents of Athboy, Donaghpatrick, and Slane were all beneficed in Dublin ; and so on, throughout the whole of the diocese. Besides these, there were some who resided in England or elsewhere, drawing their stipends from Meath, and performing their duty either by deputy or not at all.

    This was a subject on which O'Beirne felt strongly. He referred to it in his Primary Charge, delivered in the Diocese of Ossory, and said that a man who absented himself from his parish, even when it was one without church or glebe-house, was " violating all that he owed to the redeemed of Christ, whom he engaged to instruct and to comfort, and forgetful of that awful Name by which he had sworn, abandoned his charge, leaving them to whatever casual instruction they could gather from others, to pick up the word by the wayside ; to beg even for Baptism for their children from some charitable hand, often from ministers of another faith, while he, standing on the mere privilege of an accommodating conscience, set every other consideration at defiance."

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 69

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kells, this town was caught up in a widespread problem around 1799. The Rector of Kells also held a parish in the Diocese of Ossory, which meant he could not have lived fully here. This was common across Meath at the time. There was scarcely an important parish in the diocese whose incumbent did not hold another parish in a different diocese. Some lived in Meath and were absent elsewhere. Others served their Meath charge through a curate. Some wholly neglected their duty and left their people without spiritual provision. The Incumbent of Navan lived in the Diocese of Armagh. The incumbents of Athboy, Donaghpatrick, and Slane were all beneficed in Dublin. Some even resided in England, drawing their stipends from Meath and performing their duty by deputy or not at all. The bishop, O'Beirne, felt strongly about this. In his Primary Charge delivered in the Diocese of Ossory, he said a man who absented himself from his parish was violating all he owed to the redeemed of Christ, and that he abandoned his charge, leaving his people to pick up the word by the wayside and to beg even for Baptism for their children from some charitable hand, often from ministers of another faith.

38. Revival Meetings at Moynalty

    Moynalty · townland · Meath · 1858–1860

    Reverend Henry Brougham held similar religious revival meetings at Moynalty during the wave of religious fervour that swept the Diocese of Meath in the late 1850s.

    Read the passage

    Towards the close of the fifties there occurred in the north of Ireland a remarkable religious movement, known as the " Great Revival." It was attended with great excitement and many extravagances. As far as can be ascertained none of these extravagant developments reached the Diocese of Meath, but the wave of religious fervour was felt, and alike among clergy and laity there was an earnestness and devotion that spoke of a real work of God. Bishop Singer himself took the lead in the movement, and established a prayer-meeting at his Palace at Ardbraccan on Friday afternoons, and again at seven in the evening. Others of the clergy followed the lead that was thus given. Archdeacon Stopford had meetings in his own house, as well as special services in the church. The bishop's son, the Reverend Aemelius Singer, had a weekly prayer-meeting at Stackallen. Similar meetings were held by the Reverend Henry Brougham at Moynalty, the Reverend Frederick Trench at Newtown, and by many other clergymen in the Diocese of Meath.

    Bishop Singer died on the nineteenth of July, 1866, in the eightieth year of his age, and in the fourteenth year of his episcopate. On the twentieth of the

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 100

39. Revival Meetings at Newtown led by Trench

    Newtown · townland · Meath · 1858–1860

    Reverend Frederick Trench led revival meetings at Newtown during the religious fervour of the late 1850s that touched the Diocese of Meath.

    Read the passage

    Towards the close of the fifties there occurred in the north of Ireland a remarkable religious movement, known as the " Great Revival." It was attended with great excitement and many extravagances. As far as can be ascertained none of these extravagant developments reached the Diocese of Meath, but the wave of religious fervour was felt, and alike among clergy and laity there was an earnestness and devotion that spoke of a real work of God. Bishop Singer himself took the lead in the movement, and established a prayer-meeting at his Palace at Ardbraccan on Friday afternoons, and again at seven in the evening. Others of the clergy followed the lead that was thus given. Archdeacon Stopford had meetings in his own house, as well as special services in the church. The bishop's son, the Reverend Aemelius Singer, had a weekly prayer-meeting at Stackallen. Similar meetings were held by the Reverend Henry Brougham at Moynalty, the Reverend Frederick Trench at Newtown, and by many other clergymen in the Diocese of Meath.

    Bishop Singer died on the nineteenth of July, 1866, in the eightieth year of his age, and in the fourteenth year of his episcopate. On the twentieth of the

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 100

40. St Mary's Drogheda unused despite repair

    Drogheda · town · Louth · 1732–1733

    In Drogheda no service was held at Saint Mary's, even though the building was kept in repair; instead parishioners crossed the river to attend Saint Peter's church.

    Read the passage

    Roger," instead of the usual " Dearly beloved brethren," addressing himself to the parish clerk, who was the only member of the congregation. Bishop Ellis's Report, however, makes no mention of these week-day services at Laracor, and we may perhaps conclude that they were also held in other country parishes throughout the diocese, although no notice of the fact is taken in this return. At Duleek, divine service was celebrated only every second Sunday. On the alternate Sundays, service was held in Mr. Mervyn's house, at the Naul, in the parish of Clonalvey. In Drogheda there was no service at Saint Mary's, although the church was kept in repair, and the parishioners used to go across the river to Saint Peter's.

    Very little information is given as to the frequency of the celebrations of the Holy Communion. At Athlone mention is made of a " monthly Sacrament," and this may have been the rule for the town parishes. At Kilskyre, we are told, " The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper is administered six times in the year." This may have been the custom in the country places. At all events, this is the only information that the Report gives.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Drogheda, in Louth. Around 1732 to 1733, the church of Saint Mary's here stood kept in repair, but no service was held in it. The parishioners used to cross the river to Saint Peter's instead. The record does not say why Saint Mary's was unused, only that the building was maintained while the congregation went elsewhere for worship.

41. Unusual flagon at Eglish resembling a pewter tankard

    Eglish · townland · Donegal

    Eglish church has a remarkable flagon nine inches high, shaped like a tankard with a hinged lid and oak bottom, which the rural dean doubted was originally an ecclesiastical vessel.

    Read the passage

    The church of Eglish has an old paten, which bears on the back the date 1559. On the front it has the inscription : "Ye Church at Eglish, 1775." There is no hall-mark. The curate in charge informs me that he has shown it to a friend who is somewhat of an expert, and that he thinks that it was very probably made in the year 1559, and given to Eglish in 1775. If this surmise be correct, it is the oldest dated piece of plate that we possess. The same church has a flagon which is somewhat remarkable. It is nine inches high, like a tankard, with a lid attached by a hinge, and a handle at one side. The bottom is of oak. The rural dean remarks, "It is doubtful if this is an ecclesiastical vessel at all. It is like an old pewter pot in shape." Very probably it was not originally intended for church use, for in those old days they frequently employed vessels that we would not now consider suitable for the service of 'the Holy Communion. The chalice and paten formerly belonging to the disused church of Knockmark are held on loan by this parish. The chalice is inscribed : " This Chalice and Stand belong to the Parish Church of Knockmark, 1819." The paten has, " This Stand and Chalice belong to the Parish Church of Knockmark 1819." The peculiar use of the word " stand " is worthy of notice.

    There is in the parish of Durrow a chalice, which, from the hall-marks, appears to be of the date 1632 or 1633. The Rev. S. de C. Williams writes concerning it, " It has the letters B.T. rather coarsely but deeply cut on it, almost obliterating some letters finely engraved, which look like F.G. From a comparison between the two inscriptions, it only requires a slight effort of the imagination to think of B.T. as a vulgar upstart, who thought he could take the place of a man of culture and refinement by seeking to obliterate his initials by putting his own over them. Beneath this double pair of initials are the letters C.M., engraved in the same way as the letters, which I think are F.G. The silver in this chalice is still fairly thick, but the hall-mark was stamped so deeply in it on the

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 135

42. Archdeacon Nugent appointed at Trim in 1892

    Trim · town · Meath · 1882–1892

    Archdeacon Nugent, appointed Archdeacon of Meath by Bishop Plunket in 1882, became Rector of Trim in 1892 and served as a trusted adviser to successive bishops until his death.

    Read the passage

    intimate friends were aware of the extent of his powers. He was appointed Archdeacon of Meath by Bishop Plunket in 1882, and became Rector of Trim in 1892. The Reverend Alfred T. Harvey was best known in connection with the Church Choral Union, which he was instrumental in founding when serving as Curate of Trim. In later years he acted as secretary of the Union, and arranged for the Choral Festivals which were held every year. He was also Diocesan Secretary for Meath of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel, and was Secretary of the Diocesan Committee of Missions and Charities. To the regret of all his friends he was carried away by a painful disease at a comparatively early age.

    The Diocesan Report for 1897, commenting on these three deaths, says :

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 128

    As the companion tells it

    Coming up now is Trim, in Meath. In 1882 Bishop Plunket appointed Archdeacon Nugent as Archdeacon of Meath, and ten years later, in 1892, Nugent became Rector here in Trim. The Reverend Alfred T. Harvey was also tied to the town, serving as Curate of Trim and founding the Church Choral Union during that time. Harvey later arranged the Choral Festivals held every year, but he was carried away by a painful disease at a comparatively early age.

43. Duleek's fortnightly services and alternate worship at the Naul

    Naul · townland · Meath · 1732–1733

    At Duleek, divine service was held only every second Sunday; on the alternate Sundays, service was instead held in Mr Mervyn's house at the Naul in the parish of Clonalvey.

    Read the passage

    Roger," instead of the usual " Dearly beloved brethren," addressing himself to the parish clerk, who was the only member of the congregation. Bishop Ellis's Report, however, makes no mention of these week-day services at Laracor, and we may perhaps conclude that they were also held in other country parishes throughout the diocese, although no notice of the fact is taken in this return. At Duleek, divine service was celebrated only every second Sunday. On the alternate Sundays, service was held in Mr. Mervyn's house, at the Naul, in the parish of Clonalvey. In Drogheda there was no service at Saint Mary's, although the church was kept in repair, and the parishioners used to go across the river to Saint Peter's.

    Very little information is given as to the frequency of the celebrations of the Holy Communion. At Athlone mention is made of a " monthly Sacrament," and this may have been the rule for the town parishes. At Kilskyre, we are told, " The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper is administered six times in the year." This may have been the custom in the country places. At all events, this is the only information that the Report gives.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

44. Knockmark church without Communion table or vessels

    Knockmark · townland · Meath · 1732–1733

    Knockmark's church had no Communion table, no railed or raised place for it, no linen or carpet, and no flagon, with only a pewter chalice for the Sacrament.

    Read the passage

    In several churches the provision for the celebration of Holy Communion was exceedingly poor and inadequate. At Syddan the flagon and chalice were of block tin. At Knockmark there was " no Communion table nor place railed in for it, nor raised, no linen or carpet, nor flagon ; there is a chalice of pewter." Duleek was even worse. " No Communion table nor place railed in for it, nor is there any flagging or flooring in the place where the table should stand, nor elsewhere in the church, saving in the seats, and nothing

    " STATE OF MEATH " UNDER BISHOP ELLIS 41

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here, Knockmark's church was in a sorry state in 1732 or 1733. The record says there was "no Communion table nor place railed in for it, nor raised, no linen or carpet, nor flagon." All they had for the Sacrament was a chalice of pewter. It was one of several churches in the diocese where the provision for Holy Communion was exceedingly poor.

45. Preston School funds at Navan taken over by new Board of Education

    Navan · town · Meath · 1890

    The Board of Education for the Diocese of Meath, established in 1890, took over administration of the funds of the Preston School at Navan along with other endowments, and became trustees of school buildings in the diocese.

    Read the passage

    The Board of Education for the Diocese of Meath was established in 1890. For two or three years previously the matter had been discussed between the heads of the diocese and the Judicial Commissioners constituted by the Educational Endowments Act, 1885, and the negotiations resulted in an Order of Council, by which the new board was formed. It was to consist of the Bishop, Dean, and Archdeacon, as ex officio members, together with four clergymen and six laymen, elected by the Diocesan Synod, and additional co-opted governors, not exceeding five in number. Their trust was to hold and apply endowments for elementary and intermediate education in the diocese, to promote technical instruction, and to promote and encourage religious, education. The Board took over the administration of the funds of the Preston School at Navan, together with some other less important endowments, and became trustees of all the school

    236 HISTORY OF THE DIOCESE OF MEATH

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 124

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Navan, this is the town where the Preston School funds changed hands in 1890. The Board of Education for the Diocese of Meath was established that year, after two or three years of discussion between the heads of the diocese and the Judicial Commissioners set up by the Educational Endowments Act of 1885. An Order of Council created the new board, made up of the Bishop, Dean, and Archdeacon as ex officio members, four clergymen and six laymen elected by the Diocesan Synod, and up to five co-opted governors. Their trust was to hold and apply endowments for elementary and intermediate education, promote technical instruction, and encourage religious education. The Board took over administration of the funds of the Preston School at Navan, along with some other less important endowments, and became trustees of school buildings in the diocese.

46. Westmeath portion of Synod convenes in Mullingar

    Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1870

    As part of the reorganisation of the Church of Ireland after disestablishment, the Westmeath section of the Diocesan Synod held its meeting in Mullingar in 1870.

    Read the passage

    met again later in the year in two parts — the Meath portion in Navan, and the Westmeath portion in Mullingar. The resolutions adopted at this synod were all of a business-like character ; they denned the duties of the Diocesan Council, as well as the number of members, and the mode of their election. They directed the council to carry into effect the resolutions with regard to finance which had been adopted by the General Convention, and for that purpose to promote parochial organization for the collection of subscriptions and donations to the sustentation fund ; they also asked the council to report on the subject of the rearrangement of benefices, and to prepare a list of churches, glebe-houses, and other church property that was to be claimed from the government. They recommended the clergy to commute, so as to gain the financial advantages which were thereby secured. These resolutions, together with the election of the Diocesan Council and of the Board of Patronage for the diocese, seem to have fully occupied their time.

    The Diocesan Council met for the first time at 8 Dawson Street, Dublin, on Wednesday, the twentyfourth of August, 1870, and set at once to work, meeting regularly every month, until after the first arrangements were completed, it was not deemed necessary for them to meet so often.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 111

47. Athboy, Donaghpatrick and Slane incumbents beneficed in Dublin

    Athboy · town · Meath · 1799

    The incumbents of the Meath parishes of Athboy, Donaghpatrick, and Slane were all also beneficed in the Diocese of Dublin, exemplifying the pluralities and non-residence that Bishop O'Beirne sought to correct in his 1799 survey of the diocese.

    Read the passage

    non-residence. We have seen that these two evils had clung to the Church through all its history from the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion. It was never more rife than at this time. There was scarcely an important parish in Meath the incumbent of which did not possess another parish in a different diocese. Some of these lived in Meath, and were non-resident elsewhere. Others served their Meath charge by means of a curate. Others, again, wholly neglected their duty, and left their people without any spiritual provision. The Rector of Kells, for example, had a parish also in Ossory. The Incumbent of Navan lived in the Diocese of Armagh, and had a parish there. The incumbents of Athboy, Donaghpatrick, and Slane were all beneficed in Dublin ; and so on, throughout the whole of the diocese. Besides these, there were some who resided in England or elsewhere, drawing their stipends from Meath, and performing their duty either by deputy or not at all.

    This was a subject on which O'Beirne felt strongly. He referred to it in his Primary Charge, delivered in the Diocese of Ossory, and said that a man who absented himself from his parish, even when it was one without church or glebe-house, was " violating all that he owed to the redeemed of Christ, whom he engaged to instruct and to comfort, and forgetful of that awful Name by which he had sworn, abandoned his charge, leaving them to whatever casual instruction they could gather from others, to pick up the word by the wayside ; to beg even for Baptism for their children from some charitable hand, often from ministers of another faith, while he, standing on the mere privilege of an accommodating conscience, set every other consideration at defiance."

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 69

48. Diocesan Council's first meeting at 8 Dawson Street, Dublin

    Dawson Street · street · Dublin · 1870

    The newly formed Diocesan Council held its first meeting at 8 Dawson Street, Dublin, on 24 August 1870, beginning regular monthly meetings to organise diocesan finances.

    Read the passage

    The Diocesan Council met for the first time at 8 Dawson Street, Dublin, on Wednesday, the twentyfourth of August, 1870, and set at once to work, meeting regularly every month, until after the first arrangements were completed, it was not deemed necessary for them to meet so often.

    The financial arrangements of the diocese formed naturally one of the first subjects to be considered by the Diocesan Council and the Synod. It does not fall within the scope of this present work to give an exposition of Irish Church finance, but so many wild assertions have lately been made on this subject that it may be well here to explain the exact state of the case, taking the finances of the Diocese of Meath as our example.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 111

    As the companion tells it

    Along here at number 8, the newly formed Diocesan Council held its first meeting on Wednesday, the 24th of August, 1870. They set at once to work and met regularly every month until the first arrangements were completed, when it was no longer deemed necessary to meet so often. The financial arrangements of the diocese were one of the first subjects for the council and the synod to consider.

49. Incumbent of Navan resident in Diocese of Armagh

    Navan · town · Meath · 1799

    The Incumbent of Navan is recorded as living in the Diocese of Armagh, where he held another parish, leaving his Navan charge without a resident minister, part of the widespread non-residence crisis documented under Bishop O'Beirne circa 1799-1807.

    Read the passage

    non-residence. We have seen that these two evils had clung to the Church through all its history from the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion. It was never more rife than at this time. There was scarcely an important parish in Meath the incumbent of which did not possess another parish in a different diocese. Some of these lived in Meath, and were non-resident elsewhere. Others served their Meath charge by means of a curate. Others, again, wholly neglected their duty, and left their people without any spiritual provision. The Rector of Kells, for example, had a parish also in Ossory. The Incumbent of Navan lived in the Diocese of Armagh, and had a parish there. The incumbents of Athboy, Donaghpatrick, and Slane were all beneficed in Dublin ; and so on, throughout the whole of the diocese. Besides these, there were some who resided in England or elsewhere, drawing their stipends from Meath, and performing their duty either by deputy or not at all.

    This was a subject on which O'Beirne felt strongly. He referred to it in his Primary Charge, delivered in the Diocese of Ossory, and said that a man who absented himself from his parish, even when it was one without church or glebe-house, was " violating all that he owed to the redeemed of Christ, whom he engaged to instruct and to comfort, and forgetful of that awful Name by which he had sworn, abandoned his charge, leaving them to whatever casual instruction they could gather from others, to pick up the word by the wayside ; to beg even for Baptism for their children from some charitable hand, often from ministers of another faith, while he, standing on the mere privilege of an accommodating conscience, set every other consideration at defiance."

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 69

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Navan, in Meath. Around 1799 the incumbent of Navan did not live here. He lived in the Diocese of Armagh, where he held another parish, leaving his Navan charge without a resident minister. It was a widespread problem. Scarcely an important parish in Meath had an incumbent who did not possess another parish in a different diocese. Some lived in Meath and were non-resident elsewhere. Others served their Meath charge by means of a curate. Others wholly neglected their duty and left their people without any spiritual provision. The Rector of Kells had a parish also in Ossory. The incumbents of Athboy, Donaghpatrick, and Slane were all beneficed in Dublin. Some even resided in England or elsewhere, drawing their stipends from Meath and performing their duty either by deputy or not at all. Bishop O'Beirne felt strongly about this. In his Primary Charge, delivered in the Diocese of Ossory, he said a man who absented himself from his parish was “violating all that he owed to the redeemed of Christ, whom he engaged to instruct and to comfort,” leaving them to “pick up the word by the wayside” and to “beg even for Baptism for their children from some charitable hand, often from ministers of another faith.”

50. Kilmore parish attacked by rebels

    Kilmore · townland · Meath

    The parish of Kilmore is recorded as having been attacked by rebels, alongside notes on its tithes and glebe.

    Read the passage

    Kilmore, parish, i., 215 ; tithes, i., 264 ; attacked by rebels, ii., 107 ; glebe, ii., 153 ; clergy, ii., 306.

    Kilnegarenagh, i., 265 ; ii., 266, 330.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 152

51. Mullingar church furnished but chancel unused

    Mullingar · town · Westmeath · 1732–1733

    The church at Mullingar was reported to be in very good order and well furnished, though its chancel, though in repair, was not used and was separated from the body of the church by a partition.

    Read the passage

    as the number of clergy in the diocese at the present time. This comparison enables us to measure to some extent how far the church had recovered from the long-continued troubles of the seventeenth century. In the more important parishes there had evidently been a good work of restoration going on. Of Athboy, for instance, we are told, " The church of this union, which is in the town of Athboy, is in very decent repair. 'Tis ceiled and the isle is flagged. There is a decent pulpit and reading desk, and the church is seated throughout, and has a handsome gallery besides. There is a font of stone, and the Communion Table decently railed in. There is a decent carpet (tablecover) for the Communion, a chalice and patin of plate, and flagon of pewter. There are likewise two bells. The churchyard in beautifull order, adorned with walks and evergreens, and planted with trees, and enclosed with a good stone wall." Of Mullingar he says : " The church is in very good order, and furnished with everything necessary for the celebration of Divine service. The chancel is in repair, but not used. 'Tis separated from the body of the church by a partition, against which the Communion Table is fixed. The churchyard is well enclosed with a stone wall, and planted with trees." This arrangement of not using the chancel is curious, but a similar state of things existed in Kells church up to the time of disestablishment. Nearly all the larger churches are described in much the same way, and we may, therefore, conclude they were on the whole in excellent condition.

    Many of the smaller churches were equally well

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

52. St. Munna church built at Kilmoon

    Kilmoon · townland · Meath · 1816–1826

    Kilmoon and Piercetown Landy were united in 1826, and the Church of St. Munna at Kilmoon was built in 1816.

    Read the passage

    The Union of Ratoath, Crikstown, Cookstown, Killegland, Donaghmore, and Greenogue was formed in 1682. The Church (Holy Trinity) was consecrated in 1821. Kilbrew and Tryvett were united in 1678, but at disestablishment the latter was transferred to Dunshaughlin. The Church was built in the eighteenth century, and is now disused. Kilmoon and Piercetown Landy were united in 1826. The Church (St. Munna) was built in 1816. The present Union was formed in 1885.

    RATOATH. 1887 John Howlin Montserrat.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 150

53. Trevet's name and its burning

    Trevet · townland · Meath

    The origin of the name Trevet is discussed, and the place is recorded as having been burned. Later references cover tithes, vicar and curate, and parish clerk there.

    Read the passage

    Trevet, origin of name, i., 46 ; burned, i., 51 ; tithes, i., 265 ; vicar and curate, ii., 139 ; parish clerk, ii., 146 ; clergy, ii., 306.

    Tribunals, ecclesiastical, ii., 209.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 152

    As the companion tells it

    Close to Trevet, somewhere around here, a book on the Diocese of Meath notes the origin of the name and records that this place was burned. Later entries mention tithes, a vicar and curate, and a parish clerk. No details of the burning survive in that record.

54. Bishop Edmund Ouldhall buried at Ardbraccan

    Ardbraccan · townland · Meath · 1450–1459

    Edmund Ouldhall, a Carmelite of Norwich, succeeded to the See of Meath in 1450, died, and was buried at Ardbraccan in 1459.

    Read the passage

    1450. Edmund Ouldhall, A Carmelite of Norwich, succeeded in 1450. He died, and was buried at Ardbraccan in

    *459-

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 141

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere around here lies Bishop Edmund Ouldhall. He was a Carmelite of Norwich who succeeded to the See of Meath in 1450. He died and was buried at Ardbraccan in 1459.

55. Clonard chalice given by the Loftus family

    Clonard · town · Meath · 1677–1796

    The church of Clonard has a chalice presented by Susanna Loftus in 1677 and later renewed by Lady Jane Loftus in 1796, along with a paten given by Lettice Loftus in 1718.

    Read the passage

    The church of Clonard has a chalice presented in 1677, and repaired in 1796. It has two inscriptions recording these facts. " Ex dono Susanna Loftus, April i5th, anno 1677 ; " and " Renew'd by Lady Jane Loftus, June 22nd, 1796." The hall-mark is of the date 1795, showing that the cup is of later date than the base. There is also a paten, with the inscription, ' The Gift of Lettice Loftus to ye Church of Clonard 1718."

    The old plate of Athboy dates from 1678, and is in bad condition. An electro-plate set is in ordinary use. The old chalice gives the name of the vicar, Robert Parkinson, and of the churchwardens, Thomas Bligh and Robert Fame, with the date. It was evidently repaired at a later date, for it has also the names of John Hopkins and Thomas Tandy, churchwardens, 1749. The paten has no inscription.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 137

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Clonard in Meath, the church here holds a chalice with a story stretching over a century. Susanna Loftus presented it in April 1677, and Lady Jane Loftus had it renewed in June 1796. The two inscriptions record those facts, and the hall-mark dates to 1795, showing the cup itself is later than the base. There is also a paten, given by Lettice Loftus to the church in 1718. So three women of the Loftus family left their mark on this church's plate across the years.

56. Durrow silver flagon given by Mrs. Francis Fox, 1732

    Durrow · parish · Offaly · 1732–1881

    Durrow parish church possesses a silver flagon given by Mrs. Francis Fox in 1732, along with two patens donated by the Fox and Garvey families.

    Read the passage

    outside that it is now appearing on the inside." Durrow has also a silver flagon, with the inscription : " This piece of plate was given by Mrs. Francis Fox for the use of the Parish Church of Durrow, Anno. Dom. 1732 ;" a paten, which has engraved on it, " The Gift of Francis Fox of Durrow to the Parish Church ; " and a second paten, " Presented to Durrow Church by Toler R. Garvey, 23rd June, 1881."

    It would appear that the rebellion of 1641, followed by the usurpation of Cromwell, caused most of the old church plate to be lost. The Protector, we know, seized it wherever he could, and melted it down for coinage. It need not surprise us, therefore, to find that most of our silver is of subsequent date to those events. The chalice of Killucan has the London hall-mark of 1663, and is still in perfect condition. It has the inscription, " Parrish of Killuquen Cupp 1664. GW : AD : Churchwardens." The same parish has also a large silver paten, " The Gift of Mrs. Jane Nugent of Clonlost to the Parish Church of Killukan, December the gth, 1742." It has the Dublin hall-mark

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 136

57. Killucan chalice with 1663 London hall-mark

    Killucan · town · Westmeath · 1663–1664

    The chalice of Killucan bears the London hall-mark of 1663 and remains in perfect condition, inscribed as the parish cup with churchwardens' initials dated 1664.

    Read the passage

    It would appear that the rebellion of 1641, followed by the usurpation of Cromwell, caused most of the old church plate to be lost. The Protector, we know, seized it wherever he could, and melted it down for coinage. It need not surprise us, therefore, to find that most of our silver is of subsequent date to those events. The chalice of Killucan has the London hall-mark of 1663, and is still in perfect condition. It has the inscription, " Parrish of Killuquen Cupp 1664. GW : AD : Churchwardens." The same parish has also a large silver paten, " The Gift of Mrs. Jane Nugent of Clonlost to the Parish Church of Killukan, December the gth, 1742." It has the Dublin hall-mark

    of 1734-5-

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 136

58. Moate's uncertain church status under Kilcleagh parish

    Moate · town · Westmeath · 1630–1733

    No mention is made of a church existing in Moate itself, though glebe lands were bestowed on the parish of Kilcleagh by Charles I with a stipulation for a clergyman's residence, suggesting an early intended importance for the town that was not realized until much later.

    Read the passage

    town of Tullamore, which indeed was at that time by no means such an important place as it afterwards became. There had been a chapel of ease there, but no mention of it is made in the present account. The parish to which it belonged (Durrow) comes in for only a very scanty notice. There is equally no mention of Moate, but the parish, Kilcleagh, is mentioned as united to Bally loughloe. There is no intimation as to whether a church existed in the town of Moate, but from the fact that glebe lands were bestowed on Kilcleagh by Charles I., with a stipulation that a clergyman's residence was to be erected, we may perhaps conclude, that even then the importance of the place was recognized, and that the intention was that it should be made into a separate parish. This intention, however, like many others of the same kind, was not carried into effect until many years afterwards.

    Except in the latter portions, the Return seems to have been very carefully compiled, and it marks for us the recovery of the Church after the miseries of the rebellion of 1641, the usurpation of Cromwell, and the attempted Romanizing of the Church under James II. After ninety years of such painful experiences, it speaks well for the Church that we find it so carefully organized, and on the whole so efficiently administered. There was still, no doubt, great room for improvement in many places, and the standard reached was very far from what would be deemed satisfactory in the present day. But once more we must judge things, not according to modern ideas, but according to the ideas that were then prevalent, and when we remember this, we cannot but admit that substantial progress had been made, and the way prepared for still greater progress in the future.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Moate, there's a quiet gap in its church history that lasts most of a century. In a 1630s account of the diocese, there's no mention of a church in the town at all. The parish it belonged to, Kilcleagh, was noted as united to Ballyloughloe, but whether any church stood in Moate itself went unsaid. What the record does show is that Charles I bestowed glebe lands on Kilcleagh, with a stipulation that a clergyman's residence was to be erected. That suggests the importance of the place was already recognized, and the intention was to make it a separate parish. Like many such intentions, it was not carried into effect until many years afterwards. The broader church records of this period mark a recovery after the rebellion of 1641, the usurpation of Cromwell, and the attempted Romanizing under James the Second. After ninety years of those troubles, the Church was again carefully organized, though with great room for improvement in many places.

59. Kells church chancel unused until disestablishment

    Kells · town · Meath

    As at Mullingar, the chancel at Kells church was not used, a practice that persisted right up until the time of disestablishment of the Church of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    as the number of clergy in the diocese at the present time. This comparison enables us to measure to some extent how far the church had recovered from the long-continued troubles of the seventeenth century. In the more important parishes there had evidently been a good work of restoration going on. Of Athboy, for instance, we are told, " The church of this union, which is in the town of Athboy, is in very decent repair. 'Tis ceiled and the isle is flagged. There is a decent pulpit and reading desk, and the church is seated throughout, and has a handsome gallery besides. There is a font of stone, and the Communion Table decently railed in. There is a decent carpet (tablecover) for the Communion, a chalice and patin of plate, and flagon of pewter. There are likewise two bells. The churchyard in beautifull order, adorned with walks and evergreens, and planted with trees, and enclosed with a good stone wall." Of Mullingar he says : " The church is in very good order, and furnished with everything necessary for the celebration of Divine service. The chancel is in repair, but not used. 'Tis separated from the body of the church by a partition, against which the Communion Table is fixed. The churchyard is well enclosed with a stone wall, and planted with trees." This arrangement of not using the chancel is curious, but a similar state of things existed in Kells church up to the time of disestablishment. Nearly all the larger churches are described in much the same way, and we may, therefore, conclude they were on the whole in excellent condition.

    Many of the smaller churches were equally well

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 21

    As the companion tells it

    Coming through Kells in Meath now. The church here had an unusual arrangement that lasted right up to the time of disestablishment of the Church of Ireland. The chancel was kept in repair but was never used. It was separated from the body of the church by a partition, and the Communion Table was fixed against that partition. The same arrangement existed at Mullingar, and the writer calls it curious. Nearly all the larger churches in the diocese were described in much the same way, so they were on the whole in excellent condition.

60. Kilkenny West's monastic and parish history

    Kilkenny West · townland · Westmeath

    Kilkenny West is noted as the site of a monastery of Crossbearers, with its church later seized; the parish also had a Methodist chapel and plate recorded among its clergy history.

    Read the passage

    Kilkenny West, monastery of Crossbearers, i., 102 ; church seized, i., 238; glebe, ii., 152, 153; Methodist chapel, ii., 174; plate, ii., 267; clergy, ii., 333.

    Killagally, i., 120, 265.

    Internet Archive historyofdiocese02healiala, Chapter 152