St Dympna's Parish Dromore 2012

On 19 th May '85, sketch plans of the
proposed new church were displayed
for the first time. Prior to this, the
land for the preferred site had been
acquired from Brendan O'Reilly at a
nominal fee: later the ground for the
new cemetery was obtained from
Andrew O'Reilly. The elevation of the
site and its accessibility, graveyard
provisions etc. ensured that the new
church would occupy a commanding
presence over the town and its flock. Fr.Breen atthe laying of the first stone
The various experts in engineering put
their minds to work and the time was right for the project to go to tender.
As 1986 progressed, excitement mounted as visible signs of the efforts from previous
fundraising emerged. Site leveling, laying of road and car parks and digging the
foundations began. The main contractors were local firm, Mc Aleer & Teague, as building
progressed, a new vision on the Northern horizon emerged. The work proceeded and
fund raising continued. Another equally successful parish auction took place whilst
a dance was held by Dromore emigrants in distant New York and a substantial profit
ensued.
In 1987, the parishioners watched with increasing satisfaction as the new edifice
continued to grow. Novel concepts emerged via a Dromore Gala Week which included
a barbecue, holidaymaker's Dance, a gala sports day and dance. The completion of
the roof and completion of the Bell Tower were more visible signs of progress and the
venture was fast moving towards fruition. By October, Fr Breen could announce that
five-sixths of the cost of the new church had been raised. Meanwhile many generous
donations towards various liturgical requirements within the church were being made
St.Davog's nearing completion
7
Picture By: Pat Mccarron