THE PRESBYTERY
The clergy moved into the new presbytery in June 1981 but within a month of occupation watermarks began to appear on the walls and concerns were raised. However, the parish was assured that the building was "drying out", though no actual inspection took place.
The Archbishop and - later - our Area Bishop observed the water which began oozing from the grey flooring of the housekeeper's sitting room. Workmen appeared and so began the long saga of digger, plumber, filler, plaster remover, plasterer and decorator. As each series of works ended so, it seemed, a new one began. Industrial machines were even installed to extract humidity from the air to dry the presbytery out.
With the beautiful sunny weather we enjoyed in June 1982 the spores from the damp walls and floor were released into the air and all the residents suffered from respiratory problems. Finally, the priests and housekeeper moved out into "Glendalough".
The presbytery repaired and new heating pipes installed, the house was once again occupied. Unfortunately the problems reappeared and finally it was decided that the conditions were unfit for human habitation and new accommodation would be required.
After
an energetic programme of planning and fund-raising, the construction of the
new presbytery began and in early December 2000 it was occupied. Substantial
progress has been made with repaying the debt incurred in erecting the new
presbytery. But we still have to wait before proceeding with proposed plans
to repair and renovate the former presbytery for its intended use as a parish
centre and offices.