AS SEEN FROM IMAAL ROAD
CHRIST THE KING CATHOLIC CHURCH [AS SEEN FROM IMAAL ROAD]
Christ the King Catholic Church, Cabra: A History and Community Cornerstone
I. Introduction: A Landmark in the Heart of Cabra
Christ the King Catholic Church stands as a prominent and readily identifiable landmark within the Cabra district of Dublin. Its presence is deeply ingrained in the local landscape, serving not merely as a place of worship but as a central point of reference and identity for the surrounding community. This discussion aims to explore the rich history of this significant edifice, delve into its notable architectural characteristics, and examine its enduring relevance to the people it serves in contemporary Cabra.
II. The Foundation and Early History: A Response to Growth and Faith
The origins of Christ the King Catholic Church are intrinsically linked to a significant moment in Irish religious history: the International Eucharistic Congress held in Dublin in 1932. The establishment of the church in the subsequent year suggests a period of heightened religious devotion and a desire to commemorate this major event with the creation of new and substantial places of worship. The official opening of Christ the King Catholic Church took place on 29th October 1933, a significant occasion presided over by Archbishop Byrne. The architectural vision for this new church was brought to life by the firm of Robinson and Keefe, while the construction itself was undertaken by Fitzgerald and Leonard, with the initial cost amounting to £35,000.
The architectural practice of Robinson and Keefe held considerable sway in the development of Cabra during this period. Beyond the church itself, they were also responsible for the design of other key public buildings in the vicinity, including the adjacent Christ the King National Schools and Cabra Technical School. This indicates a comprehensive approach to urban planning, where the church was conceived as part of a larger network of civic and educational institutions, contributing to the evolving character of the suburb. Evidence of the church's early presence in the community is provided by an aerial photograph taken in 1937. This historical image offers a glimpse into the church's original setting and its position within the developing urban fabric of Cabra.
III. Architectural Grandeur: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
The design of Christ the King Catholic Church follows a traditional cruciform, or cross-shaped, plan. Its exterior is marked by several striking features, most notably a tetrastyle Corinthian portico adorning the west elevation. The inclusion of classical architectural elements such as the Corinthian portico suggests an intention to imbue the building with a sense of grandeur and a connection to established architectural traditions. This portico leads into a spacious five-bay double-height nave. Flanking the nave are shallow transepts extending to the north and south , leading to a two-bay chancel and a single-bay apse at the eastern end of the church.
A prominent three-stage bell tower is attached to the south elevation. This tower serves not only a functional purpose in housing the church bells but also acts as a significant visual marker within the local landscape, symbolising the church's presence and its role in the community. The church is covered with pitched tiled roofs, detailed with concrete cross finials and practical cast-iron rainwater goods. The walls are constructed from red brick laid in a Flemish bond pattern, resting upon a concrete plinth course and reinforced by shallow red brick buttresses at the corners. A concrete string course adds a horizontal element to the south, east, and north elevations. The bell tower itself features red brick walls with recessed concrete panels and culminates in a concrete cap, which includes a statue on its south-facing side. This integration of a statue directly references the church's dedication to Christ the King, serving as a constant visual reminder of its namesake.
The church incorporates a variety of window openings, including single, double, and triple-light round-headed windows, each featuring brick voussoirs and reveals, dressed limestone frames and sills, and stained-glass panels. The round-headed style of the windows evokes Romanesque architectural influences, further contributing to the blend of traditional elements. A notable rose window graces the west elevation, featuring red brick voussoirs and concrete mullions. Rose windows are often symbolic features in churches, representing themes of light and eternity, and their placement above the main entrance makes them a central focal point. The main door openings are square-headed with rendered surrounds, fitted with timber panelled double-leaf doors that include stained-glass over-lights, and are accessed via a concrete platform and steps. Similar attention to detail is evident in the round-headed door openings leading to the bell tower and sacristy, which also feature brickwork, timber doors, and stained-glass fanlights. A square-headed opening with a timber panelled door provides access to the transept. The property is enclosed by mild steel railings set on a concrete plinth, complemented by matching vehicular gates and cast concrete piers.
Overall, the architectural design of Christ the King Catholic Church demonstrates a high level of skill and detailing, successfully combining traditional architectural features with more modern construction techniques and materials, such as the stepped bell tower and the use of reinforced concrete and steel. This synthesis of styles reflects the architectural trends prevalent in the early 20th century. Notably, the church shares several architectural features with St. Therese Mount Merrion, which was designed by the same architect, John J. Robinson, approximately two decades later. This similarity suggests a consistent design philosophy in Robinson's ecclesiastical work. The building stands as an important visual anchor within its predominantly residential surroundings, contributing significantly to the architectural heritage of the local area.
IV. Treasures and Tales: Artefacts and Their Stories
Within the walls of Christ the King Catholic Church reside several significant artefacts, each with its own unique story. Foremost among these is the statue of Christ the King itself, a proud feature of the church since its opening. This impressive sculpture was crafted in Trieste, adding an international dimension to the church's heritage. The statue's history took a dramatic turn during wartime when it was buried for safekeeping. Later, it was carefully crated in sections and eventually dispatched to Cabra, finally arriving and being reinstated in its prominent position in the 1950s. This act of preservation underscores the community's deep reverence for this central religious symbol.
The church also holds items of historical significance connected to the International Eucharistic Congress of 1932. The candlesticks that adorn the Main Altar and the metal cross positioned on the left-hand side of the church were both used during the ceremonies of the Congress and were subsequently gifted to the parish. Additionally, a beautiful Thurible, employed during Mass in the Phoenix Park as part of the Eucharistic Congress, is also cherished within the church's collection. These artefacts serve as a tangible link to a pivotal moment in Irish Catholic history, imbuing the church with a deeper sense of historical and symbolic resonance.
Near the main entrance of the church hangs a painting titled "The Agony in the Garden" by the artist Patrick Tuohy. This artwork has its own interesting provenance, having been originally painted by Tuohy around the age of twenty-five for the Church of Loreto Female boarding and day Schools. It was later acquired for Christ the King Church by Canon O'Callaghan. The painting's artistic merit was recognised by the noted art critic Thomas McGreevy, who described it as a significant early work by Tuohy, praising its sensibility, pathos, dignity, fine design, and beautiful quality. This artwork adds a cultural and artistic dimension to the church's significance.
V. A Pillar of the Community: Current Role and Relevance
Christ the King Catholic Church continues to hold an undisputed central position within the Cabra community, serving as a vital hub for its residents. The very layout of the surrounding area, with a network of houses built encircling the church, bears testament to its historical and ongoing importance as a focal point. Beyond its role as a place of worship, the church provides crucial social, spiritual, and pastoral support to the community, particularly for the elderly and those who live alone. In recognition of the needs of those who may be unable to attend services in person, the parish provides a helpful webcam service. The enduring connection between the church and its parishioners is further evidenced by the community's consistent generosity in contributing to the various developments and changes required by the parish over the years.
The vibrant nature of the parish is reflected in the numerous active parish groups that cater to a wide range of interests and needs. These include the Legion of Mary, dedicated to service through prayer and action; the St. Vincent de Paul Society, focused on assisting those in need within the local community; the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association, promoting abstinence from alcohol; the Parish Choir and Folk Group, providing music for liturgical services; the Flower Guild, responsible for the church's floral arrangements; Collectors, who assist during Mass; Ministers of the Word and Eucharistic Ministers, lay individuals who play important roles in the liturgy; the Children's Liturgy Group, which organises services for younger members; Altar Servers, typically young people who assist the priest; the Baptismal Team, which supports families preparing for baptism; the Funeral Ministry, offering support to bereaved families; the Finance Committee, advising on financial matters; and the Parish Pastoral Council, working with the parish priest on pastoral planning.
In a collaborative effort to enhance their pastoral outreach, Christ the King Catholic Church is part of a clustering arrangement with the Church of the Most Precious Blood in Cabra West, St. Peter's Church in Phibsborough, and Our Lady Help of Christians Church on the Navan Road. This initiative allows the parishes to work together for mission, share resources, and potentially develop more comprehensive services for their combined communities. Furthermore, the church maintains a strong connection with local schools, most notably the adjoining Christ the King National Schools. There are also established pathways for students to continue their Catholic education at secondary level, highlighting the church's ongoing role in the educational and spiritual development of young people in the area. The pastoral presence of the Franciscan Minoress Sisters in the parish from 1987 to 2016 is also fondly remembered, underscoring the significant contributions of religious orders to the community's spiritual well-being.
VI. The Enduring Legacy: A Testament to Faith and Community
Christ the King Catholic Church stands as an enduring testament to the high level of skill in architecture, building, and labour that characterised its construction. It continues to function as a vital focal point for the local community, representing not only a place of worship but also an important element of their heritage, a tangible link to the past, and an integral part of their present and future lives. For the people of Cabra, the church symbolises security, continuity, development, and tradition, its towering presence offering a sense of permanence amidst the changes and challenges of contemporary life.
VII. Conclusion
In conclusion, Christ the King Catholic Church in Cabra is more than just a building; it is a cornerstone of the local community, deeply interwoven with its history, culture, and daily lives. From its foundation following the Eucharistic Congress to its present-day role as a provider of spiritual, social, and pastoral support, the church has remained a significant landmark. Its architectural grandeur, the stories behind its treasured artefacts, and the active participation of its parishioners all contribute to its enduring legacy as a vital institution in the heart of Cabra.
Christ the King Catholic Church, Cabra: A History and Community Cornerstone
I. Introduction: A Landmark in the Heart of Cabra
Christ the King Catholic Church stands as a prominent and readily identifiable landmark within the Cabra district of Dublin. Its presence is deeply ingrained in the local landscape, serving not merely as a place of worship but as a central point of reference and identity for the surrounding community. This discussion aims to explore the rich history of this significant edifice, delve into its notable architectural characteristics, and examine its enduring relevance to the people it serves in contemporary Cabra.
II. The Foundation and Early History: A Response to Growth and Faith
The origins of Christ the King Catholic Church are intrinsically linked to a significant moment in Irish religious history: the International Eucharistic Congress held in Dublin in 1932. The establishment of the church in the subsequent year suggests a period of heightened religious devotion and a desire to commemorate this major event with the creation of new and substantial places of worship. The official opening of Christ the King Catholic Church took place on 29th October 1933, a significant occasion presided over by Archbishop Byrne. The architectural vision for this new church was brought to life by the firm of Robinson and Keefe, while the construction itself was undertaken by Fitzgerald and Leonard, with the initial cost amounting to £35,000.
The architectural practice of Robinson and Keefe held considerable sway in the development of Cabra during this period. Beyond the church itself, they were also responsible for the design of other key public buildings in the vicinity, including the adjacent Christ the King National Schools and Cabra Technical School. This indicates a comprehensive approach to urban planning, where the church was conceived as part of a larger network of civic and educational institutions, contributing to the evolving character of the suburb. Evidence of the church's early presence in the community is provided by an aerial photograph taken in 1937. This historical image offers a glimpse into the church's original setting and its position within the developing urban fabric of Cabra.
III. Architectural Grandeur: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
The design of Christ the King Catholic Church follows a traditional cruciform, or cross-shaped, plan. Its exterior is marked by several striking features, most notably a tetrastyle Corinthian portico adorning the west elevation. The inclusion of classical architectural elements such as the Corinthian portico suggests an intention to imbue the building with a sense of grandeur and a connection to established architectural traditions. This portico leads into a spacious five-bay double-height nave. Flanking the nave are shallow transepts extending to the north and south , leading to a two-bay chancel and a single-bay apse at the eastern end of the church.
A prominent three-stage bell tower is attached to the south elevation. This tower serves not only a functional purpose in housing the church bells but also acts as a significant visual marker within the local landscape, symbolising the church's presence and its role in the community. The church is covered with pitched tiled roofs, detailed with concrete cross finials and practical cast-iron rainwater goods. The walls are constructed from red brick laid in a Flemish bond pattern, resting upon a concrete plinth course and reinforced by shallow red brick buttresses at the corners. A concrete string course adds a horizontal element to the south, east, and north elevations. The bell tower itself features red brick walls with recessed concrete panels and culminates in a concrete cap, which includes a statue on its south-facing side. This integration of a statue directly references the church's dedication to Christ the King, serving as a constant visual reminder of its namesake.
The church incorporates a variety of window openings, including single, double, and triple-light round-headed windows, each featuring brick voussoirs and reveals, dressed limestone frames and sills, and stained-glass panels. The round-headed style of the windows evokes Romanesque architectural influences, further contributing to the blend of traditional elements. A notable rose window graces the west elevation, featuring red brick voussoirs and concrete mullions. Rose windows are often symbolic features in churches, representing themes of light and eternity, and their placement above the main entrance makes them a central focal point. The main door openings are square-headed with rendered surrounds, fitted with timber panelled double-leaf doors that include stained-glass over-lights, and are accessed via a concrete platform and steps. Similar attention to detail is evident in the round-headed door openings leading to the bell tower and sacristy, which also feature brickwork, timber doors, and stained-glass fanlights. A square-headed opening with a timber panelled door provides access to the transept. The property is enclosed by mild steel railings set on a concrete plinth, complemented by matching vehicular gates and cast concrete piers.
Overall, the architectural design of Christ the King Catholic Church demonstrates a high level of skill and detailing, successfully combining traditional architectural features with more modern construction techniques and materials, such as the stepped bell tower and the use of reinforced concrete and steel. This synthesis of styles reflects the architectural trends prevalent in the early 20th century. Notably, the church shares several architectural features with St. Therese Mount Merrion, which was designed by the same architect, John J. Robinson, approximately two decades later. This similarity suggests a consistent design philosophy in Robinson's ecclesiastical work. The building stands as an important visual anchor within its predominantly residential surroundings, contributing significantly to the architectural heritage of the local area.
IV. Treasures and Tales: Artefacts and Their Stories
Within the walls of Christ the King Catholic Church reside several significant artefacts, each with its own unique story. Foremost among these is the statue of Christ the King itself, a proud feature of the church since its opening. This impressive sculpture was crafted in Trieste, adding an international dimension to the church's heritage. The statue's history took a dramatic turn during wartime when it was buried for safekeeping. Later, it was carefully crated in sections and eventually dispatched to Cabra, finally arriving and being reinstated in its prominent position in the 1950s. This act of preservation underscores the community's deep reverence for this central religious symbol.
The church also holds items of historical significance connected to the International Eucharistic Congress of 1932. The candlesticks that adorn the Main Altar and the metal cross positioned on the left-hand side of the church were both used during the ceremonies of the Congress and were subsequently gifted to the parish. Additionally, a beautiful Thurible, employed during Mass in the Phoenix Park as part of the Eucharistic Congress, is also cherished within the church's collection. These artefacts serve as a tangible link to a pivotal moment in Irish Catholic history, imbuing the church with a deeper sense of historical and symbolic resonance.
Near the main entrance of the church hangs a painting titled "The Agony in the Garden" by the artist Patrick Tuohy. This artwork has its own interesting provenance, having been originally painted by Tuohy around the age of twenty-five for the Church of Loreto Female boarding and day Schools. It was later acquired for Christ the King Church by Canon O'Callaghan. The painting's artistic merit was recognised by the noted art critic Thomas McGreevy, who described it as a significant early work by Tuohy, praising its sensibility, pathos, dignity, fine design, and beautiful quality. This artwork adds a cultural and artistic dimension to the church's significance.
V. A Pillar of the Community: Current Role and Relevance
Christ the King Catholic Church continues to hold an undisputed central position within the Cabra community, serving as a vital hub for its residents. The very layout of the surrounding area, with a network of houses built encircling the church, bears testament to its historical and ongoing importance as a focal point. Beyond its role as a place of worship, the church provides crucial social, spiritual, and pastoral support to the community, particularly for the elderly and those who live alone. In recognition of the needs of those who may be unable to attend services in person, the parish provides a helpful webcam service. The enduring connection between the church and its parishioners is further evidenced by the community's consistent generosity in contributing to the various developments and changes required by the parish over the years.
The vibrant nature of the parish is reflected in the numerous active parish groups that cater to a wide range of interests and needs. These include the Legion of Mary, dedicated to service through prayer and action; the St. Vincent de Paul Society, focused on assisting those in need within the local community; the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association, promoting abstinence from alcohol; the Parish Choir and Folk Group, providing music for liturgical services; the Flower Guild, responsible for the church's floral arrangements; Collectors, who assist during Mass; Ministers of the Word and Eucharistic Ministers, lay individuals who play important roles in the liturgy; the Children's Liturgy Group, which organises services for younger members; Altar Servers, typically young people who assist the priest; the Baptismal Team, which supports families preparing for baptism; the Funeral Ministry, offering support to bereaved families; the Finance Committee, advising on financial matters; and the Parish Pastoral Council, working with the parish priest on pastoral planning.
In a collaborative effort to enhance their pastoral outreach, Christ the King Catholic Church is part of a clustering arrangement with the Church of the Most Precious Blood in Cabra West, St. Peter's Church in Phibsborough, and Our Lady Help of Christians Church on the Navan Road. This initiative allows the parishes to work together for mission, share resources, and potentially develop more comprehensive services for their combined communities. Furthermore, the church maintains a strong connection with local schools, most notably the adjoining Christ the King National Schools. There are also established pathways for students to continue their Catholic education at secondary level, highlighting the church's ongoing role in the educational and spiritual development of young people in the area. The pastoral presence of the Franciscan Minoress Sisters in the parish from 1987 to 2016 is also fondly remembered, underscoring the significant contributions of religious orders to the community's spiritual well-being.
VI. The Enduring Legacy: A Testament to Faith and Community
Christ the King Catholic Church stands as an enduring testament to the high level of skill in architecture, building, and labour that characterised its construction. It continues to function as a vital focal point for the local community, representing not only a place of worship but also an important element of their heritage, a tangible link to the past, and an integral part of their present and future lives. For the people of Cabra, the church symbolises security, continuity, development, and tradition, its towering presence offering a sense of permanence amidst the changes and challenges of contemporary life.
VII. Conclusion
In conclusion, Christ the King Catholic Church in Cabra is more than just a building; it is a cornerstone of the local community, deeply interwoven with its history, culture, and daily lives. From its foundation following the Eucharistic Congress to its present-day role as a provider of spiritual, social, and pastoral support, the church has remained a significant landmark. Its architectural grandeur, the stories behind its treasured artefacts, and the active participation of its parishioners all contribute to its enduring legacy as a vital institution in the heart of Cabra.
AS SEEN FROM IMAAL ROAD