About our Parish

The Church: A Legacy of Faith

The roots of our parish stretch back centuries, to a time when the original name, Killedan—derived from the Irish Cill Liodáin, meaning “the Church of Liodáin”—marked this place as a centre of Christian life. The Franciscans established Killedan Church, and from the 12th to the 16th century, it stood as a beacon of faith for the people of this region. Today, the beautifully restored stone church, believed to have been built in the 12th century, still stands in the townland of Killedan, a silent witness to the generations who prayed there before us.

The Church of the Holy Family: A Testament to Dedication

When Fr. Denis O’Hara arrived as Parish Priest of Kiltimagh on 20th February 1887, he found the existing church in a state of disrepair. Without hesitation, he embarked on an ambitious plan to build a new one. The old church was demolished that same year, and renowned Dublin architect William Henry Byrne was commissioned to design a new place of worship. Construction began in 1888, and by December 16th of that year, the new Church of the Holy Family was dedicated by Bishop Lyster.

At the dedication, Bishop McCormack of Galway—formerly Bishop of Achonry—expressed his astonishment that such a magnificent church had been built in Kiltimagh, then a poor rural area. The total cost of construction was £3,320, a significant sum at the time, and parishioners worked tirelessly to fundraise for years to clear the debt. Fr. O’Hara also reached out to emigrants from the parish, particularly in the United States, who responded with remarkable generosity.

Reflecting on the church’s enduring beauty, Fr. Michael Cryan wrote in the Centenary booklet:

“Basically, the Church as it stands today is much the same as it was designed in 1888. There are additions and alterations, but the good plain lines and harmonies of the original design have remained unaltered. Most visitors feel at home in this Church. It never dwarfs you; its proportions are right, yet it has a suggestion of splendour!”

Over the years, the church has undergone some changes. In 1914, the front porch area was added, providing extra space, a mortuary chapel, and a baptistry. In 1982, the Sanctuary area was restructured, and in 1998, a new roof was installed.

Stained Glass Windows: A Kaleidoscope of Faith

One of the most striking features of the Church of the Holy Family is its collection of over 20 exquisite stained-glass windows. Many of these were crafted by J.J. Clark & Son of Dublin, renowned stained-glass artists of their time. Among them are 15 windows illustrating the Joyful, Sorrowful, and Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary, drawing worshippers into a deeper contemplation of Christ’s life.

Another remarkable feature is the painting above the Sanctuary, created in the 1930s by the McHugh brothers of Kiltimagh. Remarkably, it has remained untouched ever since, preserving its original splendour.

As you step into this church today, you are entering a sacred space shaped by generations of faith, sacrifice, and devotion. Whether you come to pray, reflect, or simply admire its beauty, the Church of the Holy Family continues to be a place where the presence of God is felt and cherished.