History & Renovations Our church has been established on this site for over 200 years. It was built in 1813 and has evolved and changed with the times, addressing the needs of the parish as well as providing a historical and social interpretation of the times. 2024 The new doors in the Croagh Patrick oratory. The five new doors were hung by volunteers Anthony Corrigan, Brendan Conway, Mick Needham, and John Joe McDonnell. 2016 Renovation work commenced. 2015 Structural problems arose with the roof and ceilings. 2004 Major structural works were carried out to reinforce the foundations of the original church. 1990 Placing the statue of St. Patrick on top of the pedestal on the Octagon, March 1990. Watching the preparations are members of the restoration committee. L-R : Joe Berry, Westport; Liam Walsh Chairman; Fr Tony King ADM Westport; Ken Thompson sculptor; John Coffey Monumental Works; Tom Durcan; Cathal Hughes and Sean Staunton, Restoration Committee. Photographer Liam Lyons 1986 St. Mary's Church, Westport, May 1986. House originally the residence of the Gallagher family Westport and it was the property of St. Mary's parish and has returned to the ownership of the parish. It is the residence of the administrator. Photographer Liam Lyons 1973 The alter and sanctuary were remodelled. 1959 Working on St Mary's church, Westport, 1959. Photographer Liam Lyons 1958 Building recommenced to complete the 1928 church and finished in 1961. 1955 St Mary's Church Westport, 1955. before modern renovations & prepared for Procession Sunday. Jim Crawford Castlebar St Westport standing in the doorway. The residents of Westport Quay had the honour every year to decorate the front of the church. Photographer Liam Lyons 1928 A new church was planned and dedicated in 1932. 1813 The foundation stone was laid. 1975: The CROAGH PATRICK Pilgrimage | Nationwide | BBC Archive A facinating look back: " Bernard Falk joined the pilgrims on their arduous journey in the summer of 1975 for Nationwide, making it to the top (and back to the bottom again) relatively unscathed." Oct 16, 2025 St. Mary's Church Westport Stained Glass Windows Mar 18, 2025 Happy to welcome Bishop Michael of Tuam, Limerick & Killaloe On Sunday 16 FEB 2025 we were very happy to welcome The Church of Ireland Bishop of Tuam, Limerick and Killaloe to St. Mary's Church,... Feb 17, 2025 You can learn more about the parish’s history by visiting this page: [click here] . Description Detached nine-bay double-height Catholic church, built 1926-32; dedicated 1932, on a cruciform plan comprising seven-bay double-height nave opening into six-bay double-height flat-roofed side aisles; single-bay (single-bay deep) double-height transepts centred on single-bay double-height tower (crossing) on a square plan opening into single-bay double-height apse (south). Completed, 1957-61, producing present composition. Renovated, 1973, with sanctuary reordered. Pitched slate roofs on a cruciform plan centred on pyramidal slate roof (tower); half-conical slate roof (south), clay ridge tiles, and cast-iron rainwater goods on slightly overhanging eaves retaining cast-iron square profile hoppers and downpipes. Drag edged rock faced limestone ashlar walls to entrance (north) front on cut-limestone chamfered plinth with limestone ashlar frontispiece in cut-limestone frame; roughcast surface finish (remainder) bellcast over rendered plinth. Round windows (clerestorey) with rendered "bas-relief" surrounds framing storm glazing over fixed-pane fittings having square glazing bars. Round-headed window openings (side aisles) with concrete sills, and rendered "bas-relief" surrounds framing storm glazing over fixed-pane fittings having leaded stained glass panels. Round-headed window openings (transepts) with concrete sills, and rendered "bas-relief" surrounds framing storm glazing over fixed-pane fittings having leaded stained glass panels. Pair of round-headed door openings to entrance (north) front with cut-limestone surrounds having stepped reveals framing timber panelled double doors. "Wheel Window" (gable) with cut-limestone surround having stepped reveals framing fixed-pane fittings having stained glass panels. Interior including vestibule (north) with reclaimed cut-limestone date stone ("1813"); paired square-headed door openings into nave with glazed timber panelled double doors having overlights; full-height interior with organ gallery (north) supporting pipe organ below stained glass "Wheel Window" (1960), terrazzo central aisle between cruciform-detailed timber pews, round-headed arcades on polished red Verona marble pillars on cut-veined grey marble plinths with barrel vaulted ceiling on cornice, round-headed chancel arch framing carpeted cut-veined white marble stepped dais to sanctuary (south) reordered, 1973, with cut-veined white marble panelled altar below inlaid cut-veined white marble "baldacchino", cut-veined white marble stepped daises to side altars with Gothic-style altars below stained glass memorial windows (1948-1981), timber boarded wainscoting (side aisles) with carved timber dado rail, and "Opus Sectile" stations (1929-31) below stained glass memorial windows (1950-1979). Street fronted with concrete flagged footpath to front. Appraisal A church erected to designs by Rudolph Maximilian Butler (1872-1943) of Kildare Street, Dublin (Irish Builder 1st April 1926, 261; 16th April 1927, 282), representing an important component of the twentieth-century built heritage of County Mayo with the architectural value of the composition confirmed by such attributes as the cruciform plan form; and the slender profile of the openings underpinning a streamlined Romanesque theme: meanwhile, aspects of the composition, in particular the "Wheel Window"-detailed frontispiece, clearly illustrate the belated completion of the church to designs by James Rupert Edward Boyd Barret (c.1904-76) with those works recalling his contemporary Catholic Church of the Descent of the Holy Ghost (1956-60) in County Cork (Irish Builder 14th June 1958, 439; 30th September 1961, 765). Having been well maintained, the form and massing survive intact together with substantial quantities of the original fabric, both to the exterior and to the arcaded interior reordered (1973) in accordance with the liturgical reforms sanctioned by the Second Ecumenical Council of the Vatican (1962-5) where contemporary joinery; an eye-catching "baldacchino"; opus sectile stations by Hubert McGoldrick (1897-1967) of An Túr Gloine (opened 1903), Dublin; and vibrant stained glass supplied by Earley Studios Limited (closed 1975) of Dublin; Harry Clarke Stained Glass Studios (closed 1973) of Dublin; George Campbell RHA (1917-79) of Belfast and Span; Patrick Pye RHA (1929-2018) of Dublin; and George Walsh (b. 1939) of Dublin, all highlight the considerable artistic potential of a church making an imposing visual statement overlooking the canalised Westport or Carrowbeg River: meanwhile, a reclaimed date stone ("1813") survives as an interesting relic of the Georgian Gothic church 'Erected by subscription and the strenuous exertions of the Most Revd. Oliver Kelly [1777-1834] aided by the Parishioners' which in retrospect was unjustly maligned as 'a large, lumpish, tasteless structure' (Parliamentary Gazetteer of Ireland 1846 III, 521). data from: NBHS Renovations: The Situation Today In July 2015, part of the ceiling in the side aisle collapsed falling onto the seating below.Thank God no one was injured. While examining the cause of the ceiling collapse it became apparent, after exhaustive investigations, that defects in the building were much more extensive, serious, varied and widespread. The reality is, our ‘200 year’ old Church is ‘physically a lot sicker than it looks’ with serious problems extending from the cross on top of the roof right through to the foundations in the ground. Substantial remedial works are required. The time spent investigating the problems and appropriate solutions has been worthwhile. This process has ensured that poorly planned and abortive works are avoided. The time and effort has undoubtedly saved us money. In the first instance, we have identified the most urgent works to protect your safety and secondly to protect the structure and fabric of our historic building. Accordingly, the works are now divided into four phases in line with what we think we can afford at this time. The more detailed elements of each phase are outlined under the headings below. We deeply appreciate your patience during this process.

Advice for Pilgrims Pilgrimage is a fundamental part of our Christian heritage. Croagh Patrick is one of the most well known pilgrimage sites in the country and is used by thousands of pilgrims every year. Please note that the Croagh Patrick path is on private working farmland and everybody that climbs the mountain does so thanks to the generosity of local landowners on the understanding that climbers and pilgrims do so totally at their own risks. There are no dogs allowed on the mountain under any condition. All pilgrims are asked to respect this and accede to any instructions given by the landowners should you encounter them on the mountain. Over 120,000 people climb Croagh Patrick annually. Out of that figure there are about 50 call outs by Mayo Mountain Rescue and the Coastguard. Therefore the vast majority of people who climb the mountain ascend and descend safely. The condition of the mountain has been cited as a reason for injuries, and while the mountain is extremely challenging in places particularly at the cone, the condition and preparedness of climbers is a significant factor as is borne out by Mayo Mountain Rescue statistics. Anybody who is contemplating the climb should be in a fit condition, used to exercise and prepared for a challenging climb. People who are not fit, suffering from pre existing medical conditions, or who have any issues with limbs or joints should most seriously consider seeking medical advice before taking on the climb. Pilgrims and all users of the mountain do so totally at their own risk and should therefore take all reasonable steps to ensure that they are in a fit state to take on the mountain, therefore not exposed to any danger due to their own physical condition. Please remember that all members of Mayo Mountain Rescue are volunteers and have to take time away from family and work to attend call outs on the mountain. Again over 99% of people who climb the mountain do so safely and without major incident. Please do all you can to ensure that you are in that 99%. As well as being in a fit and sound state of health please make sure that you are properly prepared for the trek. Before you climb the mountain please consult Mountaineering Ireland's Good Practice Guide and Mayo Mountain Rescue for advice. It is also advised to check the weather forecast . The advice of Mountain Rescue, the weather service and locals should always be considered before climbing. The climb itself takes at least three hours round trip and goes through some dangerous terrain underfoot, be prepared and aware of this and always know that you climb totally at your own risk. Always take all precautions necessary, including proper footwear, clothing, a stick, food and water. Be aware that the climate on the summit is very different to that on the ground, so be prepared!! Pilgrims are welcome to use the official prayer card as they climb. These cards are available locally in the Murrisk Community Café which is located in the Croagh Patrick Car Park and in Teach na Míosa which is on the route up. The traditional stations of the Reek are posted on the signage in the Car Park as well as at the foot of the steps before the ascent. The three stations are marked clearly on the Ordnance Survey Map produced by the Croagh Patrick Stakeholders which is also available locally. Please note that the third station Reilg Mhuire is located some distance down the west side of the mountain, and is not easily accessible unless one knows where they are going. It isn’t completed very often therefore.

Every year millions of people worldwide participate in a global event to raise awareness about climate change and saving energy. The event is known as EARTH HOUR. It started on 31st of March 2007 in Australia. Now there are more than 190 countries participating. It is happening this year on this weekend 23rd March from 8.30-9.30 p.m. Earth Hour invites all of us to switch off and spend one hour doing something – anything positive – for our planet. Every year millions of people worldwide participate in a global event to raise awareness about climate change and saving energy. The event is known as EARTH HOUR. It started on 31st of March 2007 in Australia. Now there are more than 190 countries participating. It is happening this year on this weekend 23rd March from 8.30-9.30 p.m. Earth Hour invites all of us to switch off and spend one hour doing something – anything positive – for our planet. Westport Eco-Congregation Every year millions of people worldwide participate in a global event to raise awareness about climate change and saving energy. The event is known as EARTH HOUR. It started on 31st of March 2007 in Australia. Now there are more than 190 countries participating. It is happening this year on this weekend 23rd March from 8.30-9.30 p.m. Earth Hour invites all of us to switch off and spend one hour doing something – anything positive – for our planet. The blessing of Animals • an Ecumenical Ceremony 🙏👍 The October 🍁🍂 edition of the ECI newsletter is now available! 5 Reasons to Donate Your Clothing at Westport Family and Community Resource Centre's Bins! Adult Faith and Human Formation Classes Date and time is TBD Westport Learn more Eco Congregation School project An online directory and interactive map of recycling facilities and charity shops in Westport. Westport Eco Congregation asks the community of Westport to reflect on the beauty of our precious world and to consider what practical steps can be taken to prevent further damage to the environment. Also, we ask the community to consider those in the developing world already affected by climate change and their future generations. Project Page Recyclin facilities listing Recycling facilities map For latest news visit https://www.ecocongregationireland.com/ Plastic Free July campaign This year’s Plastic Free July campaign focuses on small changes each of us can make to reduce plastic waste under the slogan “Small steps, big difference”. Each year millions of Plastic Free July participants from over 190 countries worldwide are together making a big difference by choosing to refuse single-use plastic. An astonishing 10 billion kgs of household waste has been avoided by participants over the last five years because millions of people choose to make a change for cleaner streets, healthy oceans, and beautiful communities or just to do the right thing. Choose one single-use plastic to avoid or take the pledge to avoid single-use cups, plastic drink bottles, or plastic food wrap. These “Top 3” items are single-use plastic items we commonly use each day that most of us can easily replace by; Refilling reusable water bottles from the tap Bringing a reusable cup or sitting and enjoying a real cup Switching from plastic wrap to reusable containers or wax wraps CHANGE ONE THING Invite you all to an inspiring event on Saturday June 15th in Westport Town Hall from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm. CHANGE ONE THING – is an event exploring the Circular Economy. What is circular economy in simple terms? It is a model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible. In this way, the lifecycle of products is extended. Demonstrations, examples and discussions on circular economy will take place on the day. You can drop in for 10 minutes to have a look, - doors open at 10.00am - or you can stay from 1.00 – 3.00 and listen to panels discussing the circular economy in more detail. Not only is this event informative but it is also fun and you may find ways of saving some money!!

The Team Priests Fr. John Kenny Administrator Parish priest at Archdiocese of Tuam (Roman Catholic) Studied Bachelor of Arts at St Patrick's College, Maynooth Went to Ballyhaunis Community School Lives in Westport, Ireland From Tooreen, Mayo, Ireland St. Mary’s Presbytery, Westport, Co. Mayo., Tel: 098 28871 Email: [email protected] Fr. Britus Kadavunkal Francis Westport (Aughaval) Tel: 098 28871 Email: [email protected]

Baptisms are held every weekend, on Saturday (the second Sat.) and three Sundays in the month (check with parish office for actual dates). Parents are required to give three weeks notice and are invited to attend a short information meeting our Baptism teamon the Wednesday prior to baptism, at Carrowbeg House, at 8.30 p.m. We strongly encourage parents to avail of the new Baptismal Teams who will make contact with you and visit you in your home if you wish. Confirmation ... Westport Parish Contact the Parish Office @ 098-28871 About Confirmation St. Mary's Church Confirmation is the Sacrament by which the baptised receive a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Through ancient rituals and words, God sends his Holy Spirit to give us the strength needed to put into practice the message of Jesus in every aspect of our lives. Christians have held that when the Holy Spirit comes, God gives us the gifts of: • being wise, • increased knowledge, especially of spiritual things, • the ability to judge between right and wrong, • understanding how and why things might be as they are, • courage to live life well, • holiness to become more what God intends us to be, • respect for God. These gifts result in the fruits of the Holy Spirit. We become: • more loving, • more joyful, • more at peace, • more patient, • kinder, • better, • faithful, • gentle, • and contented people. Each person’s ability to embrace these affects depends on his or her openness to the sacrament and willingness to accept it as God’s personal gift. You Shall Be My Witnesses is a Confirmation preparation programme based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The programme is designed as a resource to parishes. It offers support, encouragement and a challenge as well as an invitation to parents to become more actively involved in the faith life of their children as they prepare for Confirmation. The programme runs over four nights. The parents help facilitate small group activities with the young people on the themes listed below. During the course of each session the parent leaders facilitate discussion/activities. You Shall be My Witnesses explores the themes of: What it means to Belong to the Catholic Church; What we, as Catholics, Believe; How Being a Confirmed Catholic impacts and reflects on how we live our lives; and Who we Become as a Confirmed Christian. As stated, the four sessions are run by parents with the help of the parish community and parish priest.

Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Nia Burgess 24 September 2025 10:03 am I've been struggling to understand God, faith, and christianity in general for a long time now. I'm still unsure of exactly what I believe, but experiencing Croagh Patrick inspired me and filled me with peace. I can feel the spirit of everyone who's made the climb before me, as if we're all here at once, and all connected. I came to Ireland in hopes of finding true solitude and quiet, and Croagh Patrick has more than filled that need. I feel a sense of rest here, as if something outside of me, bigger than me, is keeping me safe. I'm filled with gratitude for the people who fought to preserve this mountain, and that I was able to see this beautiful view.

Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link < Back Glory Be - Liturgy of the Hours Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen Previous Next

FIRST EUCHARIST AND FIRST PENANCE DATES FOR HOLY COMMUNION Welcome! This page is for the children in 2nd Class who are preparing for First Confession & First Holy Communion in each of our seven primary schools. The sacraments of First Confession & First Holy Communion are wonderful celebrations, not only for you but for your family and the entire community. As a parish, we want to help you prepare to celebrate these occasions in your life so that they may be special and meaningful for you and your family. First Holy Communions for 2026 take place starting from: Saturday 23rd May 2026 Murrisk & Lecanvey Schools at 1.00p.m. Saturday 9th May 2026 Scoil Phádraig & Brackloon Schools at 1.00p.m. Saturday 16th May 2026 Quay & Gaelscoil Schools at 1.00p.m. REGISTRATION CARD Child's First name Child's Last name Date of Baptism Day Month Month Year Father's Full Name Mother's Full Name including Maiden Name Parent's Address Child's School Parish you live in Phone Number Email Address by SUBMITTING this form YOU CONSENT TO THE ABOVE INFORMATION BEING RETAINED BY THE PARISH RECORD PURPOSES. YOU CONSENT TO BEING CONTACTED BY THE PARISH USING THE ABOVE INFORMATION REGARDING PARISH ACTIVITIES. YOU CONSENT TO HAVING MY RECORDS RETAINED FOR FUNDRAISING PURPOSES AND BEING CONTACTED BY THE PARISH FOR THE SAME PURPOSE. Submit

We stream live from St. Mary’s Church in Westport during Masses and major celebrations, allowing those who cannot attend in person to join in the spiritual experience. This live coverage ensures that everyone, whether near or far, can remain connected with the parish community and participate in important religious ceremonies. Live Camera How to watch We stream live from St. Mary’s Church in Westport during Masses and major celebrations, allowing those who cannot attend in person to join in the spiritual experience. This live coverage ensures that everyone, whether near or far, can remain connected with the parish community and participate in important religious ceremonies. To watch the live camera from St. Mary’s Church in Westport, simply visit our parish website or designated streaming platform during Masses and major celebrations. For those who are ill or elderly, the live stream can be easily viewed on larger screens such as TVs or tablets, enhancing the experience and allowing them to feel more connected to the sacred ceremonies. By enlarging the images, they can enjoy a more immersive participation, bringing the atmosphere and spirit of the church into their homes, providing comfort and spiritual nourishment. we stream on: https://www.westportparish.ie/live-camera https://www.churchtv.ie/westport/ https://www.facebook.com/stmaryswestport https://www.youtube.com/@frchaz/streams Devotions are broadcast on Parish Radio on 104.8fm See Mass Times

Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link < Back Act of Contrition (Alternate Version) My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin. Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us. In his name, my God, have mercy. Previous Next

WELCOME How to Add to the Pilgrim's Note Reflect : Take a moment to gather your thoughts, prayers, or intentions. Write : Use the space provided to share your experience, prayer, or message. Respect : Be mindful of others; write with kindness and reverence. Sign : Include your name or initials (optional) and the date of your visit. Your contribution becomes part of the shared journey of all who climb Croagh Patrick. Thank you for adding your voice to this sacred tradition. Pilgrim / Visitor's Name Personal Note Visitor's personal note of reflection Normal Text Title Subtitle Normal Text Weather / Additional Information Add Photo Select File Select date / if differnet * required Select Time / if differnet Include in Public Listing View terms of use Following information is not public and for Westport Parish and Prayer Intentions only Prayer Intentions / All intention will be included during monthly mass Visitor's personal note of reflection and prayer intentions Normal Text Title Subtitle Normal Text eMail Submit Your content has been submitted An error occurred. Try again later Your content has been submitted Your content has been submitted Your content has been submitted

CROAGH PATRICK A PLACE OF PILGRIMAGE Although a place of stunning natural beauty, it is not for its scenery or ruggedness that Croagh Patrick is famous. The mountain, colloquially called 'The Reek' (a variant of the word 'rick', ie a hayrick or haystack; the Irish word 'cruach' has a similar meaning is renowned for its Patrician Pilgrimage in honour of Ireland's national saint, Saint Patrick, and has been a place of pilgrimage since St Patrick fasted there for forty days and nights in AD441. On the last Sunday of July each year (known as Reek Sunday its slopes are thronged with pilgrims, some barefooted, praying at the stations and climbing to the summit to attend Mass. Local people traditionally ascend the mountain on the previous Friday, Garland Friday. On Reek Sunday alone, thousands of people flock to the pilgrimage. Throughout the summer months many thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit Ireland's Holy Mountain. CROAGH PATRICK A PlACE OF BEAUTY Croagh Patrick, Ireland's Holy Mountain has long been a place of wonderment and myth, history and archaeology. The distinctive conical-shaped mountain is located about 8km (5m) from the picturesque town of Westport, County Mayo. Its peak soars majestically over the surrounding hills, rising to 765m (2,510ft) above sea level and quite often the top is hidden in the clouds. But on a clear day the view from the summit is spectacular. To the west stretches the broad expanse of the Atlantic Ocean and down below lies Clew Bay with its countless Islands Northwards lie the cliffs of Achill, with Blacksod Bay shimmering beyond. To the north-east is Nephin standing boldly alone. Southwards are the mountains of Connemara in every size and shape, with many silver lakes nestling in their valleys By Harry Hughes. Filmed on Reek Sunday July 28th 2024