Bishop of Cloyne, William Crean was at Park North (Carker Pike Cross), Shanballymore last Thursday evening to perform a blessing on a revamped Calvary shrine that dates back to 1933.

Dedicated to the memory of Mrs Julia M Crowley, the shrine now looks in pristine condition thanks to the efforts of staff working under the direction of Ballyhoura Development Rural & Social Scheme.

Fr Gerard Condon, who is now ministering in Killavullen, provided some history about the shrine which is similar in design and structure to another monument at Wallstown which was built by Julia Crowley's husband, Jeremiah in 1932. Paint and materials for the project were supplied by the Lane and Crean families who live nearby. Shane Crean who farms locally, is a nephew of the Bishop.

Also involved in the blessing were Canon Gerard Casey, Kathleen Roche and John Walsh. Bishop Crean said great credit was due to everyone involved in the refurbishment work which included cleaning and painting metal work fronting the sculpture. Approximately, 50 people attended the blessing.

Given the shrine's proximity to a busy road, organisers are grateful to An Garda Siochana for being in attendance. Following formalities, those present were invited to Shanballymore Community Centre where refreshments were served.

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