A fundraiser has been launched to restore a historic Clare church which is turning 180 years old this summer.
On June 13, the community in Teerleheen, Clouna, will celebrate 180 years since the building of St Columba's Church.
To mark the anniversary, the community has launched a Go Fund Me page with the aim of gathering enough funds to begin restoration works at the historic landmark.
In particular, both the interior and exterior of the church need to be painted, while the stained glass windows need essential repairs.
With a target of €15,000, the Go Fund Me page describes the church as a “focal point” for the community, a place full of memories as well as a “special place of worship”.
The Go Fund Me reads: “The church remains a focal point of the community, with generations fondly remembering baptisms, communions, confirmations and marriages, as well as the dignified end-of-life commemorations of deceased members of our local parish.
“Clouna church was constructed during very challenging times, but, the legacy of the skilled craftspeople, and the local support is still evident today in this special place of worship.
“To ensure the church will continue to serve the community, we need to raise essential funds for both cosmetic and structural repairs. Any funding received will be allocated in its entirety to the church.
“The outside and inside of the church needs to be painted, along with essential repairs to the stunning stained glass windows, which are a focal point of this treasured place of prayer/worship.
“We acknowledge the demands on households in the current climate, so every donation, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated. We welcome all friends of Clouna church to join us on June 13 to celebrate the special occasion. Go raibh maith agaibh, agus beannacht De oraibh go leir.”
Anyone who would like to donate to the restoration can do so via the “Clouna Church Restoration Fund” page on GoFundMe.ie