Strange indeed. The foundation stone for Castleknock Parish’s church came from excavations near St Peter’s tomb in Rome. This is Castleknock Parish. It was formed from Blanchardstown Parish in 1976. Back then, Castleknock Parish included Laurel Lodge, Porterstown, and Clonsilla.
Saint Mochta’s in Porterstown served as the Parish Church. The Parish Priest resided there. As the city-side population grew, Castleknock College chapel hosted additional Masses. A small oratory in Castleknock Village held weekday Masses. Today, it is a betting office.
In 1978, a large wooden cross marked the site for the new Parish Church. Brian Conroy of Campbell, Conroy and Hickey became the architect. Building started in 1980. The foundation stone had a special origin. It came from excavations close to Saint Peter’s tomb in Rome.
Early on, a decision was made to assign an artist to design the church’s interior. Imogen Stuart, a renowned sculptor, got the job. She designed all the artwork for the new church. This was unusual. Few Irish churches have been designed by an artist. The new church officially opened on March 17th, 1983. The Archbishop of Dublin, Dermot Ryan, led the ceremony.
Castleknock Parish Centre construction began in 1997. It finished in 1998. The Centre serves the Parish community in many ways. Parish organizations use its rooms for meetings. Parishioners use it as a place to meet and socialize.
In the early 1990s, priests and people began working together. They wanted to renew belonging and participation in the Parish. The Parish Development and Renewal program encourages shared responsibility. It focuses on the Parish community’s future. Parish Assemblies convened to assess Parish needs. These assemblies led to new Parish groups. These groups address the community’s spiritual, liturgical, support, and social needs.
Castleknock’s story is intertwined with the families who shaped it. The Guinnesses once resided at Farmleigh and still live at Knockmaroon. The Laidlaws lived at Abbey Lodge. The Godleys called Oatlands home. The Brookes lived at Sommerton House.
In 1171, the High King Ruaidrí Ua Conchobair gathered forces at Cnucha. He aimed to resist the Norman invasion. Strongbow wanted to negotiate with the High King. He offered to recognize Ua Conchobair as High King. The offer was rejected. Strongbow then launched a successful attack. Ua Conchobair retreated. The Norman conquest succeeded.
Castleknock’s name links to Cnucha. Cnucha was the foster mother of Conn of the Hundred Battles. The name also connects to the castle built by Normans in the 12th century. Castleknock evolved from a village to a bustling suburb. It is a blend of old stories and new life. The location provides access to the M50 motorway. Dublin Bus serves the area. Irish Rail operates train services from Dublin Connolly to Maynooth. The Royal Canal, completed in 1817, offers leisure.
Today, Castleknock stands as a testament to faith. The blend of historical roots and modern life creates a unique community. Remember the journey of its foundation stone. Remember the artist-designed interior. Castleknock Parish remains a beacon of community and faith.