The tranquility of monastery is open to public

The tranquility of monastery is open to public

25 June 2014

THE grounds of Tobar Mhuire Retreat and Conference Centre in Crossgar will be thrown open to the public today with the launch of a new walking trail.

The five Passionist priests who reside in the centre will be among those exploring the new three kilometre trail with visitors at the launch, which follows months of planning and development.

The £200,000 trail will complement a new £1.4m retreat centre that was developed in 2012 to secure the future of the monastery which had been threatened with closure due to declining numbers.

The centre’s director, Mr. Brian McKee, said the community, which was attracting significant bookings at the retreat centre, was now looking forward to the official launch of the trail.

He said idea for the trail arose following a chance conversation last year with a visitor to the centre about areas of the 55-acre grounds that were not accessible during the winter months.

This visitor put him in touch with Outdoor Recreation NI, which later oversaw the new scheme, which was funded by several organisations led by Down Rural Area Partnership and the Heritage Lottery Fund.

“There was significant investment in the centre in recent years with the development of a new retreat facility with 15 bedrooms,” said Brian.

“The retreats are now taking off very well and the centre is also available as a full conference facility for businesses.

“The trails can be used by people on retreat as well as local people who will be able to walk through the grounds in all weather.

“The trails also include heritage panels telling walkers ands cyclists about the history of the place, including details about American soldiers who lived in the monastery during World War Two.

“I think the scheme shows a lot of generosity on the part of the community who have opened their home to invite people in.

“They are delighted to be able to share this wonderful resource with the local community.”

Fr. Friel said the Passionist community was encouraging locals to take timeout to enjoy the woodland trail.

“We want to warmly welcome all members of the local community to the new trail and encourage them to avail of them often and enjoy the ambience and the peacefulness that is Tobar Mhuire,” he said.