Devenish Island
Devenish is the most important of Lough Erne’s island monasteries. It was founded in the 6th century by St. Molaise and was the most famous centre of Fermanagh’s spiritual and cultural life. The ruins include St. Molaise’s Oratory, St. Molaise’s Church, the well-preserved 12th century Round Tower, the 15th century remains of St. Mary’s Priory and graveyard High Cross. A small museum portraying the “Devenish Story” has been added recently. This historic island is situated approximately 3 miles from the county town of Enniskillen.
Enniskillen Convent
The first Sisters of Mercy came to Enniskillen from Sligo on 27th May, 1856 with the aim of establishing a school for girls. The bottom floor of their living quarters became a classroom for students.
The first school building was erected in 1887
“… perfectly unique among Irish conventual chapels.”
(J.E. McKenna. Parishes of Clogher)
The first school building was erected in 1887. The Convent Chapel was not opened until 1907 and is regarded as a gem of architectural beauty.
The Convent Chapel
Stained Glass Windows in the Convent Chapel
One of the outstanding features of the Convent Chapel’s design is the stained-glass windows. The 23 windows were created by a group of skilled artists from Dublin known as An Túr Gloine (The Tower of Glass).
The Mercy Cross
While teaching remained their main focus, the Sisters branched out to visitation of the sick at home and in hospital. To meet emerging needs each succeeding generation of the Sisters expanded and diversified their ministries. Today, they respond to the needs of the 21st century.
