County Roscommon church celebrates its 200th anniversary

People from near and far converged on Dysart this afternoon Sunday, August 24th to join with parishioners to mark the two-hundredth anniversary of Dysart Catholic Church, which is part of the united parishes of Ballyforan, Dysart and Tisrara.

It was a momentous occasion that involved months of preparation to fittingly celebrate two centuries of Catholic worship in this beautiful rural crossroads village of south Roscommon.

The church was built in 1825, at a time when our nation was still burdened by the harsh legacies of the Penal Laws and emerging from centuries of religious suppression. The church building was initially a modest, rectangular barn structure. It was built not just of stone and timber, but of the unwavering devotion of a deeply committed faith-minded people. For two centuries, it has stood as a steadfast symbol of spiritual nourishment, a beacon of hope, and a centre of communal life and faith for generations of parishioners in this area.

Throughout its 200-year history, Dysart Church has witnessed profound change—both within the Church and in the wider world. It has endured many challenging events during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries including famine revolution, independence, economic struggles, emigration, poverty and reform.

The church building has evolved over the decades and has been renovated, restored, and preserved with the sensitive care of dedicated parishioners and clergy. Its colonnaded limestone structure with its magnificent stained-glass windows which add to the grandeur of the building that is much admired by its many callers.

Every devotional feature of the edifice is designed to create an inviting prayerful ambience for its worshippers. The eucharistic presence in the tabernacle is a constant reminder to cherish the presence of Christ in our hearts, homes and in our faith community. Each pew invites families to come together in prayer, to kneel, worship, listen, and offer their glory and praise to God. The bell in the belfry tolls each day calling us to reflect and pray, just as it did for two centuries.

Today’s celebrations began at 3 p.m. with a Mass of Thanksgiving celebrated by Bishop Kevin Doran. It was followed by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque in the church grounds. Afterwards, people retired to Dysart Community Centre for refreshments and entertainment.

During the celebrations, a souvenir booklet was launched tracing the history of Christianity in Dysart from Patrician times to the present Church. It is an illustrated history and wholesomely embellished with many interesting photographs and memories that capture the past, present and future aspirations of this close-knit community.

People from Boston in the USA and many parts of Ireland and oversees joined the people of Dysart for this historic and celebratory occasion.