TOBAR Mhuire monastery in Crossgar has undergone a huge transformation.

The popular retreat centre owned by the Passionist order since 1950 was at risk from closure in 2009 due to a lack of funds and manpower.

However after much deliberation among the order’s leadership the Passionists gave up their home in North Belfast to invest their energies in Tobar Mhuire.

The building work that has been going on for the last 18 months has nearly come to an end and visitors to the centre will not fail to be impressed by the newly renovated church, retreat centre and visitors’ residence.

Today the house has nine public rooms, 15 new guest rooms with en suites, a renovated library and conference rooms, which are also available to hire for non-religious purposes.

To help mark the successful renovation project a large gathering of Passionist Priests from Ireland, Scotland and France travelled to Crossgar for their annual assembly on Wednesday January 26.

This important event in the Passionist calendar looks at issues such as the religious life, church, ministry and future plans.

This occasion saw the re-dedication of the church and blessing of the new crucifix.

“We have taken a big risk investing a huge amount of money but we are all really excited about it and raring to go,” said Assistant Superior Father Tom Scanlon.

“I have to say it has been beautifully done. Huge glass panelling in and around the church has created a bright and inspiring place to be and we plan to hold many concerts there.”

Fr Ephrem Blake CP, Fr John Friel (Superior), Fr Mel Byrne CP and Fr Pat Duffy (Provincial Superior) pictured in the courtyard where the new stations of the cross will be situated leading to the entrance of the church.

In the court-yard on the entrance is a tastefully paved piazza in which stand modern stations of the cross.

“They are stations with a difference designed by the ecclesiastical architect Brian Quinn,” said Fr Tom.

“They have been made up of fifteen red girders which represent the 14 stations of the cross and the resurrection.

“They indicate a spirituality that cannot be contained in buildings but bursts outside into the market place. He has done a wonderful job. We are still waiting for religious icons that are being made in Italy to complete them.”

The Passionists are eager that the new facilities be used by all sections of the community and wish to invite everyone to a series of concerts that will be held there over the coming months.

“We move with a different energy here,” said Father Tom.

“One that is non-judgemental but welcoming and compassionate. Society has changed and we realise we have to be flexible and move with the times. We very much hope the house will be widely used by everyone, no matter what denomination, whether they are seeking solitude or just need to talk to someone.”

Work at the monastery is still ongoing but the church will reopen its confessional services on February 3 and it is hoped the church will reconvene mass the following week.

The retreat centre is also introducing counselling services which will be carried out by qualified psychotherapists, including members of the Passionist community.

For details of concert dates and how to book retreats log on to www.tobarmhuirecrossgar.com or telephone 028 4483 0242.