Our History
The Church of the Immaculate Conception, Tubberclair
Nestled in the heart of County Westmeath, Tubberclair Parish is part of the Diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnoise. It shares boundaries with Drumraney/Tang and is home to a single parish church, the Church of the Immaculate Conception, which is dedicated to Our Lady under this special title. The church, currently under the care of Rev. Seamus Mulvany, stands as a testament to the faith and resilience of the local community.
Originally built in 1807, the church was reconstructed in the 1830s to better accommodate the growing number of parishioners. Over the years, the church has seen several important improvements, including the addition of a long aisle during Fr. Murray’s time and re-roofing in 1891. The tower, which remains a striking feature, was completed in 1881. Major restoration work took place in 1999, preparing the church for the Jubilee Year, and the church was re-dedicated by Bishop Michael Smith on 17 October 1999.
This church is more than just a building; it represents the enduring devotion of the people of Tubberclair. From its humble beginnings during Penal times to its role as a vibrant hub of faith today, the Church of the Immaculate Conception continues to serve as a cornerstone for spiritual and community life in the parish.
Fr Seamus Mulvany
Fr. Seamus Mulvany C.C. Ashbourne was appointed P.P. in November 1993. A native of Wilkinstown, Co. Meath, he was educated at St. Finian's College, Mullingar and Maynooth. Ordained in 1965, he served for a short time in Tullamore before joining the Irish Chaplaincy in London. He returned to the diocese in 1969 and was appointed C.C., Beauparc. He moved to Kentstown in November 1976. In 1985 he moved to Ashbourne.
Parish priests of Tubberclair
The spiritual guidance of the parish has been enriched by the devoted service of its parish priests over the years.
Those who have served our community:
Rev. Michael Murray (1862 - 1897)
Rev. Patrick Briody (1897 - 1902)
Rev. Richard Mc Donnell (1902)
Rev. Thomas Gaughran (1903 - 1926)
Rev. John Murphy (1926 - 1935)
Rev. Maurice Weymes (1935 - 1969)
Rev. Joseph Clarke (1969 - 1978)
Rev. Thomas Gilhooly (1978 - 1993)
Rev. Seamus Mulvany (1993 -current)
Each of these priests has brought their own unique gifts to the role, fostering a spirit of faith and community while building upon the rich heritage of the parish. Together, they have ensured that the Church of the Immaculate Conception remains a beacon of faith for all who enter its doors.
"I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth."
— Psalm 34:1
Prayer of Gratitude for the Parish's History
"Almighty and ever-living God, we thank You for the rich history of Tubberclair Parish and the generations that have built and nurtured this community.
Bless all those who have gone before us and all who continue to serve You through their faith.
May we honour their legacy by living out Your Word with love and commitment.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen."