MONDAY marked the one year anniversary of the devastating fire at St Mary’s Church in Derrybeg.
In the early hours of Easter Monday last year the cherished landmark at the heart of the close-knit community in Gaoth Dobhair was destroyed.
When daylight finally broke on April 21, 2025, the slow smouldering remains were revealed- no more than the steel spine of the building left standing. The whole parish fell silent.
In the wake of the tragedy, as the embers settled and the initial shock began to fade, the people of west Donegal did what they do best and rallied together and fundraised over €150,000 toward the rebuilding of the church, with over €40,000 raised in the first 24 hours.
In the past year the beloved Parish Priest, Fr Brian Ó Fearraigh, has played a central role in the journey to rebuilding on the existing site in Derrybeg.
Speaking on Monday he thanked the community for their support over the past 12 months.
“The support, patience and faith of the parish community throughout this difficult period have been deeply appreciated.”
Fr Ó Fearraigh has been supported by a community working group Meitheal Mhuire, which was established in response to the fire, as well as the diocese of Raphoe.
A public consultation also played an important part in the process and in informing the vision for the project.
Fr Ó Fearraigh explained that all stakeholders have been engaged in extensive work to ensure that the rebuilding project proceeds in a careful, professional and orderly manner.
This includes the appointment of architect Karl Pendersen who is leading the design of the new church and quantity surveyor Eugene Coyle who is assisting in the preparation of the parish’s insurance claim which is to be finalised in the coming weeks.
“These developments represent significant progress,” said Fr Ó Fearraigh.
“While there remains a considerable amount of work to be done, the project is moving steadily and purposefully through the necessary stages of design, financial preparation, and pre-construction planning.
“The parish is committed to ensuring that this process is carried out properly and that the new church will be built on strong foundations, both practically and financially.”