The Priory Church at Killadeas was built in 1881 but in recent years suffered from effects of penetrating damp in both the tower and main church body and after continuous heavy rain water would stream down the inside walls of some parts of the building. 

Over the past number of months a considerable volume of work has been carried out in a bid to restore and preserve the church for future generations. Repairs were completed on the  church’s tower and the building’s east and west walls as well as further drainage work outside of the related foundation areas. 

Mr Ronald Balfour, one of the Church’s wardens said, “It was very obvious that only a major project would fix the church building and put it back in a fit state so that the church will be available for generations to come. It is only with the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund grant that made the Priory project possible.”

The local church was awarded a grant of £65,400 from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the complete restoration project, which is now virtually complete is expected to cost in excess of £120,000.

Paul Mullan, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund in NI said that most churches rely on the hard work and generosity of local communities and volunteers to keep them in good order, but sometimes they need more help. “Our funding is an invaluable resource for the repair and reuse of important listed buildings,” he said.

The re-dedication service will be lead by the Bishop of Clogher, John McDowell this Sunday at 3pm. The parishioners are looking forward to the landmark service which will have a special significance as the Priory Church was originally consecrated on 24th November 1881.