Each of the churches in our family of parishes has its own story and its own architectural and artistic treasures. These were commissioned to point the congregations as well as the casual visitor to the glory of God
St. James Church, Ardfield, was erected in 1832, just a few years after Catholic Emancipation. However, much of its artistic decoration dates from almost a century later.
The stained glass windows in the church were made by Watsons of Youghal. The work of this Cork firm can be found in many Co Cork churches.
The two Ardfield windows to the left and right of the altar are excellent examples of Watsons’ adaptation of the Celtic motifs and tracery from the Book of Kells and other Irish sources.
The window of the Sacred Heart was donated, the window says, by Mrs Galway (probably Galwey). The window of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception was donated by Miss Walsh.
Watsons commenced making windows in Youghal in the 1880s but the Celtic Revivalist style of windows was moslty used by them in the 1900s.
The next time you atre passing St. James’ Church in Ardfield, do have a look at the windows and also look out for Watsons window which depicts the patron of the church.
Sacred Heart Window
Window of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
