St Mary's Church

Nestled in the heart of Navan, County Meath, St. Mary's Church stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring faith of the local community. This magnificent structure, which opened its doors in 1839, is one of the two churches that form the modern-day Parish of Navan in the Diocese of Meath. With its striking architecture and storied past, St. Mary's Church offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's religious and cultural heritage.

The Historical Roots of St. Mary's Church

The history of St. Mary's Church is deeply intertwined with the medieval parishes that once dotted the area, including Athlumney, Cannistown, Donaghmore, Dunmoe, and Navan. These parishes, though now largely reduced to cemeteries and ruins, played a crucial role in the religious life of the region. The original St. Mary's was an Augustinian abbey located on the outskirts of Navan, which was suppressed during the reign of King Henry VIII as part of his broader campaign against religious orders.

The modern St. Mary's Church, however, owes its existence to the wave of church-building that followed Catholic Emancipation in 1829. This period saw the repeal of the last of the Penal Laws, which had severely restricted the rights of Catholics in Ireland. The decision to construct St. Mary's was made at a public meeting on September 9, 1834, led by Fr. Eugene O'Reilly. Fr. O'Reilly, inspired by his studies in Lille, France, envisioned a church that could accommodate 3,000 worshippers, ensuring that everyone could see and hear the priest. The design of the church, with its theatrical elements, reflects this vision and has become a distinctive feature of St. Mary's.

Architectural Marvels and Unique Features

As you approach St. Mary's Church, you'll be struck by its imposing façade and the intricate details that adorn its exterior. The church is situated between Trimgate Street and the Fairgreen, with its main entrance facing the latter. This strategic location not only makes the church easily accessible but also provides ample parking for visitors.

One of the most notable features of St. Mary's is its wooden life-size sculpture of Christ on the Cross, which hangs from the back wall behind the reredos. This exquisite piece was crafted by Edward Smyth, a renowned 19th-century sculptor from County Meath, who is also famous for his riverine heads on the Custom House in Dublin. The sculpture adds a profound sense of reverence and artistry to the church's interior.

Another interesting aspect of St. Mary's is its connection to the Duke of Bedford, the major landowner in the area at the time of its construction. A monument within the church commemorates the Duke's permission to build the church, highlighting the interplay between religious and secular authorities in 19th-century Ireland.

Modern Innovations and Community Engagement

St. Mary's Church has embraced modern technology to enhance the worship experience for its congregation. In April 2007, the parish installed a camera under the organ loft to broadcast Mass live to Navan and its surrounding areas. This initiative, in collaboration with P5tv (Province 5 Television), allows those who cannot attend in person to participate in daily services. The technology was further enhanced in December 2007 with the addition of a second encoder to stream the video signal to the parish website.

In July 2008, P5tv introduced a pressure mat system with an intelligent camera that automatically adjusts its pan, tilt, and zoom features whenever a priest stands on the mat. This innovative system ensures that the broadcast remains focused on the officiating clergy, providing a seamless viewing experience for remote worshippers. Additionally, a static camera continuously displays the Blessed Sacrament, allowing for perpetual adoration.

Leadership and Legacy

Navan is one of the two mensal parishes of the Diocese of Meath, meaning that the Bishop of Meath serves as the parish priest. Historically, bishops such as Patrick J. Plunkett and John Cantwell resided in Navan, though the episcopal residence was later moved to Mullingar. Today, the bishop is represented in Navan by an administrator who performs all the functions of a parish priest. The current administrator is the Very Reverend Declan Hurley, Adm.

St. Mary's Church also plays a significant role in the broader religious landscape of Navan. The town is home to another St. Mary's Church, an Anglican place of worship located nearby. This proximity reflects the diverse religious traditions that coexist in Navan, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry.

In conclusion, St. Mary's Church in Navan is not just a place of worship but a symbol of resilience, faith, and community. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, and embrace of modern technology make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the spiritual and cultural heritage of Ireland. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a devout pilgrim, St. Mary's Church offers an enriching and inspiring experience that will leave a lasting impression.