CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC BECAUSE OF FALLING SLATES IN 2016
ST NICHOLAS OF MYRA CHURCH [CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC BECAUSE OF FALLING SLATES IN 2016]
I am discussing this church because a person that I met on my last visit to Francis Street mentioned that this church was dedicated to Santa Clause. Unfortunately, every time I visited since 2016 the gates were locked
Saint Nicholas of Myra:
Historical Figure: Saint Nicholas was a real person, a Christian bishop who lived in the 4th century. He was born in Patara (modern-day Turkey) and served as Bishop of Myra, also in present-day Turkey.
Reputation for Generosity: Nicholas was known for his incredible kindness and generosity, particularly towards children and those in need. Many legends and stories arose about his good deeds.
Famous Legends: Some of the most well-known stories include:
The Three Daughters: A poor man couldn't afford dowries for his three daughters, which meant they might have to resort to desperate measures. Nicholas secretly threw bags of gold through their window on three separate occasions, providing the dowries and saving them.
Rescuing Children: There are tales of him rescuing children from danger, including one where he revived three children who had been murdered.
Veneration as a Saint: After his death (around 343 AD), Nicholas was venerated as a saint. He became the patron saint of children, sailors, merchants, and many others. His feast day is celebrated on December 6th.
Santa Claus:
Evolution of the Legend: The figure of Santa Claus evolved from the stories and traditions surrounding Saint Nicholas. Over time, his image and the tales associated with him changed and blended with other folklore and cultural influences.
Dutch Influence: The Dutch, who celebrated "Sinterklaas" (their version of Saint Nicholas), brought their traditions to New York (then New Amsterdam) in the 17th century. This played a significant role in the development of the American Santa Claus.
Literary and Cultural Influences: Writers and artists further shaped the image of Santa Claus. Clement Clarke Moore's poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" (1823), better known as "'Twas the Night Before Christmas," helped popularize the image of a jolly, gift-giving Santa who travels by sleigh.
Modern Image: The modern image of Santa Claus, with his red suit, white beard, and reindeer-pulled sleigh, was largely solidified in the 20th century through commercial depictions, particularly by Coca-Cola.
The Connection:
Saint Nicholas is the Origin: Santa Claus is directly based on Saint Nicholas of Myra. The core idea of a generous figure who brings gifts, especially to children, comes from the stories of Saint Nicholas.
Transformation Over Time: However, Santa Claus is not simply a direct representation of the historical Saint Nicholas. He has become a more secular and commercial figure, incorporating elements from various cultural traditions and folklore.
Back in 2016 I visited Francis Street with the intention of photographing the interior of the St Nicholas of Myra Church but I could not gain access because they had a problem with their roof.
St. Nicholas of Myra Church, located on Francis Street in Dublin, is a historic Roman Catholic church with a complex history.
A Place of Worship Through the Ages:
While there may have been earlier religious activity in the area, concrete evidence for a 12th-century chapel is lacking. The Franciscans arrived in Dublin in 1230 and established a friary and church dedicated to St. Francis, giving Francis Street its name. This original Franciscan friary was suppressed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII in the 1540s.
The Franciscans attempted to return to Dublin in the 17th century, but their efforts were hampered by the Penal Laws against Catholics in Ireland. The Popish Plot of 1678 exacerbated these difficulties.
The current church was built in the early 19th century. Construction began in 1829 under Archbishop Daniel Murray and was completed in 1834. It was dedicated to St. Nicholas of Myra. John Leeson was the architect. Patrick Byrne's additions, including the Ionic portico, pediment, bell tower, and cupola, were completed around 1860.
The information about John le Porter's donation in 1235 and Henry III's contribution relates to the original Franciscan friary, not the current building.
Architectural Significance:
The church is a significant example of neoclassical architecture. Its strategic positioning, set back from the bustling Francis Street, creates a sense of tranquility. The church's pediment once displayed three statues: Our Lady, Saint Patrick, and Saint Nicholas. A twentieth-century concrete Marian shrine and a statue of Saint Nicholas are located in the churchyard to the west.
The interior features a neoclassical style with bright paint and intricate decorations. The traditional T-style layout focuses on the altar at the east wall. A baptistery and a marriage chapel are located at the north and south ends, respectively. A gallery with an organ is at the west end. Stained glass windows by Earley & Co. and sculptures by John Hogan adorn the interior.
The Role of the Franciscan Order:
The history of St. Nicholas of Myra Church is linked to the Franciscan Order, who established a presence in Dublin in the 13th century. They played a role in the construction of the first stone church on the site. Even after the Reformation, the Order maintained a connection to the site.
The Popish Plot and its Impact:
In the late 17th century, the Franciscans faced setbacks due to the Popish Plot of 1678, which led to increased restrictions on Catholic worship.
The Churchyard and its Significance:
The churchyard is a place of remembrance and historical significance, enclosed by gate piers and wrought-iron gates. A segmental-headed red brick arch marks the eastern boundary. A twentieth-century concrete Marian shrine and a statue of Saint Nicholas are within the churchyard.
Interior Decorations and Artwork:
The interior features neoclassical design, stained glass windows by Earley & Co., and sculptures by John Hogan.
The Closure of 2016 and Roof Repairs:
In 2016, the church closed due to falling roof slates. The roof, likely constructed in the 19th century, required extensive restoration.
Current Status and Accessibility:
The church is open to the public, with Mass celebrated regularly. It provides wheelchair access, WC facilities, and a loop sound system. A side chapel dedicated to St. Nicholas features a stained glass window and an icon of St. Nicholas of Myra.
The Church's Role in the Community:
St. Nicholas of Myra Church has long been a cornerstone of the Liberties neighbourhood, serving as a gathering place and a source of support.
Conclusion:
St. Nicholas of Myra Church is a symbol of faith, resilience, and community in Dublin. Its history reflects the enduring power of religious devotion and the importance of preserving architectural heritage. The successful restoration following the 2016 closure demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding this landmark for future generations.
I am discussing this church because a person that I met on my last visit to Francis Street mentioned that this church was dedicated to Santa Clause. Unfortunately, every time I visited since 2016 the gates were locked
Saint Nicholas of Myra:
Historical Figure: Saint Nicholas was a real person, a Christian bishop who lived in the 4th century. He was born in Patara (modern-day Turkey) and served as Bishop of Myra, also in present-day Turkey.
Reputation for Generosity: Nicholas was known for his incredible kindness and generosity, particularly towards children and those in need. Many legends and stories arose about his good deeds.
Famous Legends: Some of the most well-known stories include:
The Three Daughters: A poor man couldn't afford dowries for his three daughters, which meant they might have to resort to desperate measures. Nicholas secretly threw bags of gold through their window on three separate occasions, providing the dowries and saving them.
Rescuing Children: There are tales of him rescuing children from danger, including one where he revived three children who had been murdered.
Veneration as a Saint: After his death (around 343 AD), Nicholas was venerated as a saint. He became the patron saint of children, sailors, merchants, and many others. His feast day is celebrated on December 6th.
Santa Claus:
Evolution of the Legend: The figure of Santa Claus evolved from the stories and traditions surrounding Saint Nicholas. Over time, his image and the tales associated with him changed and blended with other folklore and cultural influences.
Dutch Influence: The Dutch, who celebrated "Sinterklaas" (their version of Saint Nicholas), brought their traditions to New York (then New Amsterdam) in the 17th century. This played a significant role in the development of the American Santa Claus.
Literary and Cultural Influences: Writers and artists further shaped the image of Santa Claus. Clement Clarke Moore's poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" (1823), better known as "'Twas the Night Before Christmas," helped popularize the image of a jolly, gift-giving Santa who travels by sleigh.
Modern Image: The modern image of Santa Claus, with his red suit, white beard, and reindeer-pulled sleigh, was largely solidified in the 20th century through commercial depictions, particularly by Coca-Cola.
The Connection:
Saint Nicholas is the Origin: Santa Claus is directly based on Saint Nicholas of Myra. The core idea of a generous figure who brings gifts, especially to children, comes from the stories of Saint Nicholas.
Transformation Over Time: However, Santa Claus is not simply a direct representation of the historical Saint Nicholas. He has become a more secular and commercial figure, incorporating elements from various cultural traditions and folklore.
Back in 2016 I visited Francis Street with the intention of photographing the interior of the St Nicholas of Myra Church but I could not gain access because they had a problem with their roof.
St. Nicholas of Myra Church, located on Francis Street in Dublin, is a historic Roman Catholic church with a complex history.
A Place of Worship Through the Ages:
While there may have been earlier religious activity in the area, concrete evidence for a 12th-century chapel is lacking. The Franciscans arrived in Dublin in 1230 and established a friary and church dedicated to St. Francis, giving Francis Street its name. This original Franciscan friary was suppressed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII in the 1540s.
The Franciscans attempted to return to Dublin in the 17th century, but their efforts were hampered by the Penal Laws against Catholics in Ireland. The Popish Plot of 1678 exacerbated these difficulties.
The current church was built in the early 19th century. Construction began in 1829 under Archbishop Daniel Murray and was completed in 1834. It was dedicated to St. Nicholas of Myra. John Leeson was the architect. Patrick Byrne's additions, including the Ionic portico, pediment, bell tower, and cupola, were completed around 1860.
The information about John le Porter's donation in 1235 and Henry III's contribution relates to the original Franciscan friary, not the current building.
Architectural Significance:
The church is a significant example of neoclassical architecture. Its strategic positioning, set back from the bustling Francis Street, creates a sense of tranquility. The church's pediment once displayed three statues: Our Lady, Saint Patrick, and Saint Nicholas. A twentieth-century concrete Marian shrine and a statue of Saint Nicholas are located in the churchyard to the west.
The interior features a neoclassical style with bright paint and intricate decorations. The traditional T-style layout focuses on the altar at the east wall. A baptistery and a marriage chapel are located at the north and south ends, respectively. A gallery with an organ is at the west end. Stained glass windows by Earley & Co. and sculptures by John Hogan adorn the interior.
The Role of the Franciscan Order:
The history of St. Nicholas of Myra Church is linked to the Franciscan Order, who established a presence in Dublin in the 13th century. They played a role in the construction of the first stone church on the site. Even after the Reformation, the Order maintained a connection to the site.
The Popish Plot and its Impact:
In the late 17th century, the Franciscans faced setbacks due to the Popish Plot of 1678, which led to increased restrictions on Catholic worship.
The Churchyard and its Significance:
The churchyard is a place of remembrance and historical significance, enclosed by gate piers and wrought-iron gates. A segmental-headed red brick arch marks the eastern boundary. A twentieth-century concrete Marian shrine and a statue of Saint Nicholas are within the churchyard.
Interior Decorations and Artwork:
The interior features neoclassical design, stained glass windows by Earley & Co., and sculptures by John Hogan.
The Closure of 2016 and Roof Repairs:
In 2016, the church closed due to falling roof slates. The roof, likely constructed in the 19th century, required extensive restoration.
Current Status and Accessibility:
The church is open to the public, with Mass celebrated regularly. It provides wheelchair access, WC facilities, and a loop sound system. A side chapel dedicated to St. Nicholas features a stained glass window and an icon of St. Nicholas of Myra.
The Church's Role in the Community:
St. Nicholas of Myra Church has long been a cornerstone of the Liberties neighbourhood, serving as a gathering place and a source of support.
Conclusion:
St. Nicholas of Myra Church is a symbol of faith, resilience, and community in Dublin. Its history reflects the enduring power of religious devotion and the importance of preserving architectural heritage. The successful restoration following the 2016 closure demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding this landmark for future generations.
CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC BECAUSE OF FALLING SLATES IN 2016