History of Carrigrohane Union of Parishes
Carrigrohane Union of Parishes brings together four worshipping communities serving Carrigrohane, Blarney, Inniscarra, Ballincollig and the surrounding areas. Our parish is shaped by a long and diverse story — from medieval foundations to modern mission. Each church has its own history, yet all share one mission: to be a community where people encounter God, grow in faith and serve others.
St Peter’s Church, Carrigrohane
Early roots and a landmark on the Lee
St Peter’s is the oldest church in the Union, with Christian worship on this site stretching back many centuries. The earliest documented reference comes from 1291, when “Carrigrohane” appears in the ecclesiastical taxations of Pope Nicholas IV.
The original stone church was rebuilt in 1628, during a period of renewal across the region. The current building dates largely from 1851, when it was rebuilt in the Gothic Revival style under the architect Joseph Welland, one of the most influential church architects of the time.
Features such as the carved stone, the setting overlooking the Lee Valley, and later additions — including the nave roof and distinctive west end — all contribute to the church’s character today. St Peter’s remains the historic heart of the Union and continues its long tradition of worship, prayer and pastoral care in the community.
Church of the Resurrection, Blarney
Early roots and a A historic village church with global visitors on the Lee
The Church of the Resurrection stands at the centre of Blarney village, close to the castle that attracts visitors from all over the world. The church was built around 1776, funded in part by a grant from the Board of First Fruits — the body that supported church building across Ireland in the 18th and early 19th centuries.
Its architectural style reflects a blend of neoclassical simplicity with later Victorian influences, echoing the evolving life of the village. Over the generations the church has served local families, castle workers, and countless visitors who have worshipped or sought quiet moments within its walls.
Today, the Church of the Resurrection continues to be a place of welcome, worship and community life at the heart of Blarney.
St Senan’s Church, Inniscarra
Rural ministry with deep heritage
St Senan’s Church serves the Inniscarra area and has a rich history rooted in the rural landscape along the River Lee. The church was built in 1819, at a cost of £923, again supported by the Board of First Fruits.
The original simple building was extended and beautified over time, including a significant enhancement in 1893, when the Beresford family funded the construction of a chancel complete with carved oak fittings. This addition gives St Senan’s much of its distinctive interior character.
With its peaceful setting, historic churchyard and close-knit parish community, St Senan’s continues to be a place where worship, tradition and local identity come together.
The Carraig Centre, Ballincollig
A new chapter of mission and community engagement
The Carraig Centre represents the newest chapter in the parish’s story. Developed in the late 2010s and opened around 2020, the centre was created in response to the growing community of Ballincollig and the wider Lee Valley. The vision was to establish a modern, flexible space where church and community could meet in meaningful ways.
Located in a converted former printing works, The Carraig Centre includes multipurpose halls, community rooms, youth spaces, worship areas and facilities for courses, events and outreach programmes. It quickly became a hub of activity — from youth groups and Bible studies to social supports, fitness classes and partnerships with local organisations.
This development marked a significant step for the Union, expanding ministry beyond traditional church buildings and embracing a fresh expression of church for today’s community.
One Parish, One Mission
Together, St Peter’s Carrigrohane, Church of the Resurrection Blarney, St Senan’s Inniscarra and The Carraig Centre form a parish family that is rooted in history yet oriented toward the future.
We remain committed to:
- Worship that honours God
- Community that welcomes all
- Discipleship that encourages growth
- Service that blesses our neighbours
- Mission that reflects Christ’s love
From medieval beginnings to modern mission, Carrigrohane Union of Parishes continues to share the good news of Jesus Christ across generations and communities.