New book explores the history of religion in Kilclief parish

New book explores the history of religion in Kilclief parish

16 September 2020

A NEW book covering the ecclesiastical history of the parish of Kilclief has been published.

Stella Maris Church 1820-2020 A Celebration of Faith, was commissioned by Father John McManus PP to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Stella Maris Church in Strangford.

It was written by Michael McConville and compiled and edited by Jennifer O’Reilly, both residents of the village.

The explores religion in the Kilclief and Strangford area right back to the time of St Patrick. It is a compelling insight into the faith and determination of our ancestors who built the foundations of the parish through periods of great unrest, two world wars and economic depression.

As well as covering the history of Stella Maris Church from when it was built in 1820 to the fire that ravaged it in 1930 and subsequent rebuild in 1932, the book covers the wider history of the parish of Kilclief.

There are chapters devoted to the early days of religion in the parish when the countryside appears to have been dotted with numerous small churches through to St Malachy’s Church in Kilclief which was first opened in 1785. The adjoining cemetery and other denominations in the area are also covered in the book.

The social wellbeing of the parishioners is also documented in the book, as demonstrated by the building of Stella Maris and St Malachy’s Halls and the early development of St Malachy’s Park at Kilclief.

The history of education in the parish is chronicled from the hedge schools through to the Charter schools and National Schools, culminating in the current St Joseph’s and St Malachy’s Primary Schools. 

“This is an important historical publication which in effect is a tribute to those who went before us,” said Jennifer.

”For a small moment we can walk in the shoes of our ancestors and marvel at their faith, enthusiasm and tenacity,” she said.

“Michael has spent many years meticulously documenting this information and working on it with him has been a real education. All the hard work was worth it in the end as we have here a book which I hope everyone will enjoy reading.”

She added: ”Father John has to be commended for having the foresight to commission this piece of work, enabling the drawing together of all the strands that make the parish what it is today.”

If you would like to order a book at a minimum cost of £5, please contact the parochial house at Strangford on 028 4488 1206. Books will also be on sale at Kevin Og’s, Castle Street, Strangford.