Ballintubber Abbey Choir release fundraising CD, Dóchas ‘s Grá - Hope and Love

Ballintubber Abbey Choir has announced the release of their new fundraiser CD, ‘Dóchas ‘s Grá - Hope and Love’.

The album features songs and traditional Irish music reflecting the church calendar year together with an introductory ‘Message of Hope’ by Fr. Frank Fahey.

An attractive commemorative booklet with images of the famous ‘Abbey that refused to die’ and surrounding grounds is also included in the package.

Ballintubber choir, together with local sponsorship, have funded this musical endeavour themselves, allowing all proceeds to go directly towards the east wing restoration project match-funding and the ongoing upkeep of this historic abbey.

The choir first came together in 2012 and have gone from strength to strength, growing in numbers to 30 current members now led by Janine Hoban and Maria Spelman.

The idea of recording a keepsake album first came about in 2019 but the Covid pandemic halted all plans.

The project was resurrected last summer and with the generous help and musical direction from Fr. Joe McGuinness,based in Maynooth, their dream has become a reality.

‘Dóchas ‘s Grá – Hope and Love’ is a beautifully arranged, unique choral album showcasing songs often heard throughout the year in Ballintubber Abbey and is complemented by local traditional musicians.

Purchases can be made from the Ballintubber Abbey Gift Shop, online at www.ballintubberabbey.ie, Castle Street Book Shop, Knock Book Shop, Knock Museum/Gift Shop and from choir members.