By Róise Collins

TOMORROW is the deadline for architectural firms submitting preliminary proposals as part of the rebuilding of St Mary’s Church, Derrybeg.

In recent weeks, a local working group who were set up in response to the fire that destroyed the church on Easter Monday morning have been liaising with 20 architectural firms with experience in church design and renovation.

Local Parish Priest Fr Brian Ó Fearraigh said each firm was invited to express their interest in collaborating with the parish to design a new Church.

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic, with many architects already making site visits and engaging deeply with the project,” said Fr Ó Fearraigh.

These firms have until the August, 15 to submit preliminary proposals, and the “attention and care being shown at this early stage is truly heartening”.

“Looking ahead, it is clear, from the many informal conversations I’ve already had, that there is genuine interest and anticipation both within the community and beyond.

“We now have the opportunity to shape this future together, in an open and intentional way.”

A parish-wide public consultation is also to take place in the community next month.

The consultation which is being led by Macdara Hosty Consultancy, will be held in Ionad an Acadaimh, Gaoth Dobhair on Monday, September 15.

The process will offer parishioners the opportunity to share their thoughts for the new church, which will be compiled and fed back to the selected architectural team.

“This ensures that the lived experience, values and aspirations of our parish community directly shape the design and vision of our future church,” said Fr Ó Fearraigh, while encouraging everyone to take part in this process.

“This is our church, and your participation will ensure it reflects the heart of our community.

“This is but one step in the journey of designing and building a brand new church at the heart of our community, a sacred space that will serve generations to come,” he concluded.