Fundraising for Gortnahoe Church
In February, 2005 a public meeting was called to discuss the poor state of Gortnahoe Church and plans were put in place to draw up a structure to restore the Church.  The 30 member committee was formed under the chairmanship of Jimmy Fogarty, Longfordpass, Secretary Fr. O’Rourke, Treasurers Richard Dunne and John Mulhall.  The finance committee immediately set in motion a structure over a two year period that would hopefully ensure that enough funding would be on hand to complete the refurbishment of the church.  Over the last two years the contribution from the parishioners exceeded all expectations and the generosity of the parishioners together with people associated with the parish have created a fund that will now come very close to covering the cost.

Interior of Church under Construction
In the last 12 months the finance committee were very pleased with the major fund-raising drives that were organised by local clubs and organisations.  The fund-raising activities gave the public an awareness of the project on hand. 

We are happy to report on, in particular, the major fund-raisers that were arranged for the fund. On Friday, 24th November, 2006 a major Whist Drive took place in the Hill School organised by the Kilcooley Church of Ireland parish. This was fully supported and it was a great night’s entertainment.  Over €1,000 was raised on the night.  Gortnahoe/Glengoole Pioneers held a Table Quiz in the Hall in December, 2006.  The proceeds were €645. 

Next fund-raiser was organised by Gortnahoe Community Hall Association. They agreed to give the proceeds of the Bingo on the last Saturday night before Christmas to the Church Fund.  With a raffle and extra attendance on the night over €2,000 was donated to the church fund. 

On the 4th February, 2007 a memorable night was held in Gortnahoe Hall with a Drama organised by the Glengoole/Gortnahoe Drama Group who performed two one act plays “Love and Acid Drops” and “Dispensary Dan” in aid of our funds.  We had a full house on the night and over €3,000 was collected.  The  highlight of the raffle was a Reading jersey signed by An Taoiseach, Mr. Bertie Ahern T.D. and given by him as a prize for the raffle on the Sunday night.  It was a most hilarious show and we deeply thank again the Drama Group for their efforts.

A Table Quiz was organised by the Gortnahoe/Glengoole G.A.A. Club in Mary Willies in April and over €865 was raised.  On Easter Sunday night the Gortnahoe Gun Club organised a raffle and draw which took place at John Prouts.  €1,000 was collected on the night.

The Church Restoration committee decided in early May to hold a barbecue at Mary Willies on Saturday, 23rd June, 2007.  It was advertised as the “Craic at the Back” with music by Midnight Run.  The night was great fun and the organisation by a wonderful committee of people helped to make the event run smoothly.  Even though it was inclement weather we were very fortunate on the night that it stayed fine.  In excess of €7,000 was made on the night and a big thank you to all who all who supported it. 

We have highlighted some of the major fundraising events by the clubs and organisations. However, many more people made contributions to our fund which will go a long way in restoring Gortnahoe Church to its former beauty and will leave a legacy for many years to come in the parish. 

We look forward to the year 2008 with great pride and joy.

Richard Dunne and John Mulhall - Treasurers