Promoting Irish spirituality and culture through An Díseart

AN Díseart was founded by Mons Ó Fiannachta in 1996, situated in the former Presentation Convent in Dingle. The Sisters had recently vacated the building, but wanted to see it used in a way that would fit with its original purpose, particularly so given that its particular jewel was the beautiful chapel, fitted with six stunning, two-light windows by the renowned stained glass artist, Harry Clarke.

Fr Pádraig, then parish priest of Dingle, held several meetings with the Sisters and interested members of the community, and with his guidance and vision, An Díseart was established, with the aims of promoting the study of and research into all areas of Irish Spirituality and Celtic Culture, with particular emphasis on the language, theology, literature, art, music and all the other areas of Irish culture that were so close to Pádraig’s heart. In this he was assisted by a Board of Directors and a very dedicated team of workers. A wonderful day for all was when President Mary McAleese and Dr McAleese formally opened the building in 2002, and many other distinguished visitors have crossed its portal.

Over the years sabbatical students were welcomed, who came to study guided by Pádraig himself; links were established with various universities, both at home and abroad, and students came on short and longer courses with the emphasis always on aspects of Irish culture and learning. Perhaps more importantly, courses aimed at local residents of Corca Dhuibhne, particularly in theology, local history and creative writing, were offered, many of them guided again by Fr Pádraig, and many successful writers began their careers under his tutelage.

In the earlier years, several art exhibitions were hosted, but more recently, the building itself has become the canvas with many works by artist Eleanor Yates, including the Last Supper fresco, in which Fr Pádraig took much delight. The continuing developments of the beautiful garden have also always been close to his heart.

The facilities at the building have grown over the years, under Fr Pádraig’s supervision, and, in earlier years, under the direction initially of Diarmuid Ó Dálaigh and then of TP Ó Conchúir. A lift has been installed, rooms brought to the standards suitable for holding classes, with all the required modern equipment, and even accommodation facilities have been prepared.

Fr Pádraig has also had his office for An Sagart, his publishing company, in the building, and for many years Sacred Heart University has had a major presence in the building. It has grown under his guidance to be a multi-purpose facility, but always with the initial aim at its heart: promoting Irish Spirituality and Culture.

– Isabel Bennett, Archaeologist and member of the board of An Díseart

Mons Ó Fiannachta meeting Pope Francis in The Vatican in 2014.