Mullavilly - History

A Brief History of Mullavilly Parish Church

The name "Mullavilly" means "the summit or hill of the ancient tree". The parish was originally part of the parish of Kilmore and the original church was built in 1736 at the sole expense of Dean Brandreth who died in 1761. A monument to him in Kilmore Church reads "He loved our nation and he has built us a synagogue". The font in the baptistery is dated 1751.

The walls of the original building were white-washed but were rough cast in 1774. At this time, the church was still regarded as a "chapel-of-ease". It was not given a title until 1809 and was consecrated on 11th September 1810, 59 years after it was erected, probably because it was held in private ownership until that time.

The original rectory was built in 1812 at Ballyknock. The present rectory was completed in 1949, costing £3,720 with an added garage at £150.

There have been a number of alterations made to the church over the years. A gallery was erected in 1775 but this was then removed when the church was enlarged in 1820. A new gallery was erected in 1823. The chancel was enlarged by nine feet in 1897 and a Vestry built at the side, costing £260.

There had been a slated spire in the Tower, but this was removed in 1905. The church was first lit by oil lamps in 1880 and some of the brass holders for the lamps still remain. Sadly the originally lamps and poles have been lost. The present roof, with its impressive interior, was put on in 1920. Before then, the roof was of shingle and pitch. Electric light was installed in 1935 and the switch box can be seen beside the font. The present lighting was installed in the 1990’s. A major alteration and renovation took place in 1972 at a cost of £10,000. The interior walls of the church, which were constantly flaking were battened and then covered with Newtonite felt, plastered with cement and given an Alpine finish. Portions of the original wall can still be seen where the various memorial tablets are erected. The centre aisle is narrower as a result.

The choir stalls were lengthened by using wood from the older and shorter ones, the chancel was extended and new chancel steps of York stone were installed. The baptistery was enlarged, a heating system installed and a new ceiling erected in the porch. In 1984 the windows were treated and replastered with Alpine finish to match the walls. The parish hall was completed in 1963.

Of course, a church is more than just the building. The church of Mullavilly now claims over 300 families in its membership which represent over 850 souls. New development has brought in many new families with young children. On an average Sunday, about 250 would worship here at one of the three services. For these people, the walls of this church represent a place of worship and prayer.

As you visit, please spend a few moments reflecting on the 264 years of worship in this building and bring before God your own thoughts and prayers.