St. Patrick Parish, Fallowfield is excited to announce the upcoming culmination of a more than two-year project that has transformed 10 acres of former scrub farmland into an extended cemetery, complete with a full cyclic roadway and extensive landscape integration. This serene space features a large-scale grotto designed to be a place of reflection and peace, offering solace to those mourning a loss or
seeking tranquility.
One of the highlights of the grotto, named Our Lady of the Fields, is a statue of Mary positioned on the right-hand side, standing above at a 7′ elevation. The grotto is intended to draw visitors closer to God, their loved ones, and themselves. This project is a dedication and expression of appreciation to the church, its parishioners, and the community is fully funded by a patron who has had a lifelong relationship with St. Patrick Fallowfield.
A group from the parish community and beyond the parish community known as the Stewards of the Grotto, will act as caretakers and fundraisers to ensure its maintenance and prominence for decades to come.
St. Patrick Church Renovation
The renovation will take place in phases, which started with the replacement of all the church’s windows. The original windows, which were nearly a century old, have been swapped out for modern, energy-efficient versions that respect the church’s image and meets the requirements of its Heritage Site designation. This update is essential for preserving the church for future generations and lays the groundwork for planned renovations, including the proposed internal refurbishment and the addition of iconography on the ceiling.
Grounds and Cemetery Improvements
Outside the church, efforts have been made to rejuvenate and expand the grounds. The Knights of Columbus have finished repairs on the monument to the unborn, which is prominently located outside the church office. A fundraiser is currently underway to replace trees that were lost/damaged during recent storms, ensuring the grounds continue to be a peaceful and reflective space.
Additionally, the parish has expanded its cemetery with a significant new feature: a grotto dedicated to the Blessed Virgin. This lovely grotto and grounds expansion has been donated by parishioner Charles Tierney, a retired Ontario judge, and reflects his deep spiritual commitment. It will offer a place for prayer and contemplation for all who visit.
Community Involvement and Future Plans
These projects highlight the dedication and faith of the St. Patrick Parish community, with parishioners and volunteers contributing their time, effort, and resources. The parish will continue to provide updates on the renovation and expansion projects via its social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube along with information and blogs on the new St. Patrick Fallowfield website.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stpatrickfallowfield
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stpatrickfallowfield/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLDQImZMgm9HoJ92X1Wzm-Q
TikTok: St. Patrick Fallowfield TikTok
Website: https://stpatricksfallowfield.com/
For sample photos:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1x122CCsxgnyC6cMdEfU2WvwGJF_osq2v
For more information or for an interview with Rob Stamper (Finance Council) and Charles Tierney (patron), please contact:
David Piccolo
Communications Specialist
St. Patrick’s Parish, Fallowfield
613-981-7016
communications@stpatricksfallowfield.com
www.stpatricksfallowfield.com
François Lanthier
Director of Communications and Mission Promotion
The Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall
613-738-5025 ext 239
francois.lanthier@ottawacornwall.ca
www.ottawacornwall.ca
