VIEWS OF ST LAURENCE O'TOOLE CHURCH

SEVILLE PLACE 14 JULY 2024

St. Laurence O’Toole Church, located on Seville Place in the Sheriff Street area of Dublin’s north inner city, holds a significant place in the local community’s history and faith. Built between 1850 and 1854, the church was designed by renowned architect Patrick Byrne, known for his work on numerous religious buildings in Ireland. The construction was carried out by Messrs. Meade and Doolin, builders of considerable repute at the time.

The church’s namesake, St. Laurence O’Toole, was a 12th-century Archbishop of Dublin and is the city’s patron saint. His legacy of piety and devotion to the poor resonates with the community served by the church. The parish itself has a long history, established in 1837 to cater to the growing population of the area, which was experiencing rapid development due to the expansion of the port and surrounding industries.

The church building is a notable example of early Gothic Revival architecture, featuring pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and stained glass windows. Its imposing presence on Seville Place makes it a recognisable landmark in the area. Inside, the church boasts a beautiful interior adorned with intricate details and religious iconography.

St. Laurence O’Toole Church remains popular among locals, serving as a place of worship, community gathering, and a source of support for those in need. The parish offers a range of outreach services, including:

Food bank: Providing essential food supplies to individuals and families facing food insecurity.
Soup kitchen: Offering hot meals to those experiencing homelessness or struggling financially.
Counselling and support services: Providing emotional and practical support to those facing various challenges, including addiction, bereavement, and family difficulties.
Community events and activities: Organising social gatherings, educational programs, and cultural events to foster a sense of community and belonging.
The attached school buildings, which have a long history of serving the local community, have undergone redevelopment in recent years. The project aimed to modernise the facilities while preserving the historical character of the buildings. The refurbished school now provides a state-of-the-art learning environment for students, contributing to the overall revitalisation of the Sheriff Street area.

St. Laurence O’Toole Church and its associated school continue to play an essential role in the lives of the local community. The church’s commitment to outreach and support, combined with the school’s educational mission, make them valuable institutions that contribute to the well-being and development of the area.