By Róise Collins
THE PARISH priest in Milford said he has been truly taken aback by the generosity of the local community who have responded to an appeal for help for essential repair works at the town’s St Peter’s Church.
Parishioners in Milford were faced with a potentially chilly winter when the boiler at the church broke several weeks ago.
Replacing the old boiler that was over two decades old was going to set the parish back over €10,000 and as Milford Parish Priest Father Stephen Gorman told the Donegal News, this was money that they simply did not have.
He recently took to the altar and humbly pleaded with parishioners, asking for donations to cover the costs of replacing the boiler.
Just three weeks after making his appeal, Fr Gorman said the parishioners have donated over €6,000.
“The community have really rallied together to support this project,” he said.
Local football club, Milford United have also rallied to support the cause by kindly donating the proceeds of their upcoming 50/50 draw to help cover the remaining costs associated with replacing the church’s boiler.
Fr Gorman, who has been in the parish for five years, said: “This is a wonderful gesture, especially when the committee have their own bills to pay.”
This is not the first time Milford United have supported the church, they also generously fundraised for a parish webcam to be installed during the pandemic.
Fr Gorman paid a special thanks to organiser Martin Roarty and the club committee for their continuing generosity.
He also wholeheartedly thanked the Milford and Kerrykeel community.
“There is a dedication in the people of Milford and Kerrykeel, when there is somebody in need they always step up to the plate,” he said.
The new condensing boiler has since been installed and thanks to the wonderful community support, parishioners are now looking forward to a warm winter in St Peter’s Church, added Fr Gorman.
For anyone who would like to make a donation to help cover the costs of the new boiler they can contact Fr Stephen at the parochial house in Milford.
Tickets for the Milford United 50/50 draw will also go on sale this week and can be purchased from any of the club members.
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