Unveiling of unique stained glass window in Shinrone

St. Mary's Church of Ireland in Shinrone is home to one of the most unique stained glass windows in the country, which is set to be unveiled to members of the public as part of Heritage Week.

The Mary Lowndes stained glass window, believed to be one of only two such unaltered examples of its kind in Ireland, will be unveiled at a special Unveiling Service in the Church at 7pm on Saturday evening next, August 21, which will also include a blessing, historical talk and insights from the window conservator.

The exciting conservation project for the Lowndes window in Shinrone - which has had a somewhat perilous journey over the last 105 years - has attracted both national and international interest, and the Unveiling Service takes place against the backdrop of the Parish Bicentenary celebrations.

Among the many questions which will be answered as part of next Saturday's event will be :

Who was Mary Lowndes and why is she important?

Who commissioned the window and what secrets lie within?

What was involved in the windows conservation?

And how did a work from Ettagh Church end up in Shinrone?

Earlier in the day on Saturday next, and running from approximately 2pm to 5pm, the Lowndes Window will be on display in its specially commissioned light box, and visitors can also explore other important Church artefacts to include furnishings and stain glass examples; with guides on hand to assist and answer questions.

All are welcome to both dimensions of the day, which are subject to COVID-19 guidelines. Ensure to bring your Mask!