Soprano Celine Byrne helps raise €14,500 to restore Wicklow church bells
Performing to a packed audience, the 'Harmony in Faith' classical concert saw international award-winning artist Byrne, who has performed with greats like Andrea Bocelli, take to the stage with support from the Arklow Revival Gospel Choir and the 'A-Chord-ingly' barbershop quartet from Greystones.
The funds raised will go towards the refurbishment of the church bells, which were manufactured and installed in St Saviour's in 1989 by John Taylor, the original bell and foundry maker, who perfected the tuning of the bells.
Delighted with the turnout and fundraising total, organiser and ringing master Matthew Dent said: 'It was a fantastic night, with over 300 people in attendance, and Celine was a fabulous performer, she wowed and captivated the audience with opera arias, Irish folk songs and spiritual songs.
'We were joined by His Grace, the Archbishop Michael Jackson and St Peter's and Mary's Fr Ó Cochláin, as well as the Presbyterian minister Michael Anderson and also the minister Fadzi from the Methodist church.
'We served non-alcoholic bubbly and Italian ice creams at the interval, and Celine captivated onlookers with her dazzling personality during the break by speaking to various guests. Overall, the night was a high success.
'We raised a total of €14,500 before costs, so we have enough to see the full restoration of the bells and a little extra to go towards the church roof repairs.
'We will now be showcasing the bells and the hard work to restore them in a digital presentation at St Saviour's on Heritage Week, August 16 to 24, where the public are welcome at this free event to show how their generous donations and support have been spent,' he added.
'A big thanks to all the town's businesses for supporting us, who were also specifically thanked at the event for their support.
'We also invite anyone looking to join bell ringing at the church and would like to learn the art of campanology (bell ringing) free of charge every Friday evening from 7 pm till 8.30 pm (email: stsavioursbells@gmail.com)
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