By Dionne Meehan

THERE is growing excitement among parishioners in Raymochy as their beloved chapel gets ready to re-open after closing its doors almost two years ago.

St Columba’s Church, which is located ten minutes outside of Letterkenny, is considered by many as the heart of Drumoghill’s bright, caring and connected local community.

But, with the building falling into a state of despair in recent years, parishioners were forced to attend Mass in their local Resource Centre while restoration works were carried out.

Although attendance at Mass remained strong, Pat Meehan, a member of the restoration committee, shared a very positive update this week, confirming that the chapel is just four weeks away from re-opening.

“The project is in its closing stages and ready for gradual re-opening four weeks from now, ahead of schedule,” Mr Meehan told the Donegal News.

“The Resource Centre in Manorcunningham has been there for the congregation and has been very accommodating, we have to stress that.

“But speaking personally, it means an awful lot to have the chapel re-opening; it is embedded in the DNA of the people in the area.”

The beautiful interior of St Columba’s Church in Drumoghill as it nears completion, with all the original old roof beams reserved. Photo: Brian McDaid.

However, the restoration of the 200-year-old chapel wouldn’t have been possible without the heartfelt support of the local community.

“From word go, there was a great push from the local community to get involved by any means possible, from the smallest of fundraisers, right up to the bigger events that we had,” Mr Meehan said.

“People have rallied behind this cause immensely and it has been greatly supported by wider communities outside the parish.

“There has been great interest and the support has just been enormous and overwhelming.”

Now, as the restoration nears completion, the committee is preparing to add the final touches, including installing lighting and carrying out decorative work.

But to do so, they need your help.

As a final push for funds, the Drumoghill Chapel Restoration Project has launched a cash draw offering eight prizes with a total value of €30,000.

The draw will take place on Friday, September 26, in the Manorcunningham Resource Centre.

The restoration project team would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported the project so far.

This includes everyone who purchased tickets, community members who have been tirelessly selling tickets, and the local businesses, event organisers, and other groups that have graciously allowed the committee to sell tickets at their premises and events.

If you wish to enter the draw you can do so online through Revolut @drumoghillchapel or check out their Facebook and Instagram @Parish Of Raymochy.