Context and Background

Built by the Mercy Order in the 1920s, the Oratory has always been a special place for prayer and church services. However, for many and varied reasons including the shortage of priests and fall of in attendance at mass, this sacred space is now only used minimally for weekly mass and a few odd occasions during the year and remains unoccupied must of the time. The new plan will bring the Oratory into the Retreat Centre’s daily schedule while still keeping it open for weekly Mass and other liturgical celebrations such as weddings, baptisms and funerals . Much-needed renovations will make the space warmer and more flexible. All changes are intended to protect the historic building ensuring it can stay open for years to come.

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There are several compelling reasons to adapt the Oratory’s function, namely:

1. To extend the Centre’s capacity for mission and faith development.

2. To support the Centre’s economic stability and future viability.

3. To preserve the existing and future use of the Oratory as a place of public worship and for celebration of the Sacraments.

4. To carry out necessary structural repair and remedial work on interior walls.

5. To enhance and modernise the Oratory, while conserving key architectural aspects, so that it can adapt to the changing demands of the Church in the 21st Century.

 

Given its underutilization, as previously noted, introducing an alternative use is recommended to ensure the building’s continued maintenance and preservation.

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Please click on adjacent image for a more comprehensive overview of the project

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Project Details

1. Planning Permission Granted February 2025

2. Projected Cost of Project – Costed December 2025:

Extension and Site Works (including VAT) €365,470
Internal Renovation plus furnishings of Chapel (including VAT) €218,080
Total €583,550

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3. Once Funding is in place, plan for works initiation and completion.

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4. Projected beginning of works 2028.  (Estimated time to complete project is 6 – 9 months).

How You Can Help

If you are in a position to either give a once off donation or give regularly for a limited period, however small, it would be greatly appreciated.

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We realise that there are significant demands on everyone including cost of living increases, as well as many other projects locally and wider afield who are in need of your help.

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We have a number of choices for giving available at the donation Kiosks in the Chapel, in the Retreat Centre and on-line. For online donations please visit www.staroftheseacentre.com/donate

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No donation is too small, and we are grateful for standing order payments as much as we appreciate once off donations.

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We also really appreciate any help we can get in seeking the support of the wider community of faith in Ireland and abroad. You can greatly help us by spreading the word about this project and encouraging others to give their support who may be in a position to do so.

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We wish to thank all who have already contributed to this project and all who have encouraged us to proceed with this project in restoring and renovating this sacred place.

We entrust this project to the care of Our Lady Star of the Sea and St. Joseph the Worker
Frank and Louise McGuinness
Directors of Star of the Sea Retreat and Conference Centre
Email: staroftheseacentre@gmail.com
Mobile: 087 9880690