Sir, - I would like to comment on the item in your paper about Carlow Cathedral. Some years ago, the church in Naas was refurbished. Everything was removed from the sanctuary high altar, side altars, communion rails and marble wall decoration. The tabernacle was moved to the side of the church and the silver sanctuary lamp has also gone; a beautiful carved wooden pulpit (made in Glenstal, I think) was also removed. The church is now quite stark and, in many ways, quite bereft of former beauty.
recently visited the Redemptorist Church in Limerick city. There I saw history preserved with little alteration, but yet allowing the liturgy of Vatican II to be suitably catered for. At the back of the church, there is a written account of its history. I made particular mention of the tact that any alteration (or removal of objects) would only be made after considering the feelings of those whose generosity contributed to the furnishing of the church.
The history of Naas Church recalls that the pennies of the poor contributed greatly to its buildings, at a time when real poverty existed. I hope that the benefactors of Carlow Cathedral are remembered with sensitivity before any renovations take place.
There are many churches in the Dublin diocese where alterations have been minimal. These include one in Kilcullen, which is just seven miles from Naas. - Yours, etc.,
South Main Street,
Naas,
Co Kildare.