Monday, May 18, 2026

‘Supper and song’ fundraiser announced to support repairs for Clare church

A musical fundraiser has been arranged between Clare natives John Burke and Luka Bloom to support the repairs to a small lcoal church.

Christ Church in Spanish Point is a Protestant church dating back approximately 100 years.

Designed in a ‘Mediterranean Gothic’ style by architect William Henry Allen, the church was built between 1926 and 1927, following the destruction of the original 1804 church in 1922.

Now in need of some repairs, John Burke, owner of The Armada Hotel in Miltown Malbay, got in contact with the folk singer-songwriter Luka Bloom to organise a fundraising event on May 17.

Kevin Barry Moore, known professionally as Luka Bloom, is the younger brother of Christy Moore, originally from Newbridge in County Kildare.

“This beautiful old building is a small Protestant church in Spanish Point, near Milltown Malbay, County Clare,” the musician said in a post on social media, alongside a photo of the church. “It holds 80 people. And it needs some TLC; some repair.

“John Burke from The Armada Hotel approached me with the idea of an event to raise a few bob for the work needed.

“On Sunday, May 17, people can go to the Armada for a meal, then walk or bus to the church, where I will give a concert at 7pm.

“It should be a lovely evening, and my hope is that this wonderful place can host many concerts in the future, especially for the many brilliant musicians and singers living locally.”

For €65 per ticket, guests can enjoy a two-course meal with a glass of wine, then walk or avail of a shuttle service to Christ Church where Luka Bloom will perform.

All funds raised from the event will go towards the repairs needed in the church, with organisers insisting there are no costs associated with the event.

Tickets for the event are now sold out online.