Irish Night Concert to take place for Inishbiggle's Holy Trinity Church

An Irish night concert for Inishbiggle’s Holy Trinity Church repairs is set to take place on Achill Island.

Local residents and visitors alike are invited to join in the evening of music and community spirit at Óstán Oileán Acla (Achill Island Hotel) on Bank Holiday Monday, May 6, at 8pm.  

The special event holds particular significance as it was the request of Inishbiggle's late Christy Henry.

He requested the concert to raise money to help with necessary repairs to Inishbiggle's historic Holy Trinity Church. 

The idea for the concert arose during a meeting between Mr Henry and singer James Kilbane, just a week before his untimely passing. 

Mr Henry’s passion for his community and dedication to preserving its heritage will be honoured through an evening of entertainment.  

Anxious to raise money for the church roof, eaves and inside floor, Mr Henry stressed that the small community valued the church as their location of worship and a centre for the community to gather.  The church itself is part of the Church of Ireland, however it is also consecrated that Roman Catholic services can take place there. 

Achill Island and Ballycroy have always had a strong bond with the people of Inishbiggle, and many people in the community knew Mr Henry.

Local Church of Ireland Rector Suzanne Cousins, who had met Christy before his passing, is also involved in the concert.

She said: “I made my first trip to Inishbiggle on 27 July 2023. On the day, my parishioners and I were met by Christy with other islander friends. We went straight to the church to survey its condition and then to celebrate the Eucharist. The building looked a little ‘sad’, to put it mildly, and the need for attention inside and out was evident. I believe there are times when we are given glimpses of light and hope that shine and lighten the darkness, and this concert, which has come as a result of Christy’s wish, is an example. 

“Those of us from the Church of Ireland community with responsibility for keeping this special, historically significant little church fit for the purpose of worship and gathering are enormously grateful to James Kilbane, his team, fellow singers and Cathal McLoughlin of the hotel who are giving generously of their time to this end. I am looking forward to meeting many in Achill Sound on the night,” added Reverend Cousins.

Inspired by the community commitment of Mr Henry, James Kilbane along with other local singers, Grainne Madden, Michael Mac, Pat Molloy, Rory McGinty, Tom McGinty, and Cian McNamara, have volunteered their talents to create a memorable night filled with Irish ballads, memories, and some country classics. All the artists have shared a connection with Christy over the years. 

Tickets priced at €15 are available from post offices in Achill Sound, Mulranny, and Ballycroy, as well as Keel shop, The Islander, Alfa at Meg’s, MacSavers, and Óstán Oileán Acla. 

Additionally, tickets are available from Reverend Suzanne at 083 8003233.