St Andrew’s Parish Church was designed in the classical style and is home to an impressive organ originally built by John White. Beyond the Doric portico, visitors will discover a treasure trove of statues and paintings, including the famous painting depicting the martyrdom of Thomas Beckett. While St Andrew’s dome, cast from a mould by John Hogan, captures the Coronation of Christ, there is a simple detail in the church that adds something to its charming character. The next time you’re at St Andrew’s, take a closer look at the pews, and you’ll notice that no two ends are the same.
That next visit to the church could be for a Candlelight concert in Dublin. Hosted on a regular basis to meet with the audiences demands, the series pays a classical tribute to pop artists, rock stars, film soundtracks and more under the glowing light of thousands of candles.
A little bit of history on St Andrew’s Parish Church
During the Penal Days, Catholics had no choice but to worship in makeshift chapels, as public practice was prohibited. As a result, a chapel on Townsend Street suffered the collapse of a chimney, which fell on the entire congregation while they attended Mass. This tragic incident garnered sympathy for Catholics, and city officials later permitted the construction of places of worship—one such place being St. Andrew’s.
The building is also a prime example of neo-classical design, with its clean lines, symmetrical Doric portico, and soaring dome that nods to the grandeur of ancient Greece and Rome. Adding to its exceptionality, the John White organ doesn’t reside there merely ornamentally: it was built to fill the church with music for services, celebrations, and the choir that’s been singing here since 1834.
What can you do at St Andrew’s Parish Church?
Visitors can attend the usual services and sacraments. And if you can’t make it to the actual building some days, don’t fret because St Andrew’s also live streams mass every day. For Dublin’s music lovers, Candlelight at St Andrew’s offers enchanting concerts in a unique setting. Enjoy soothing melodies from talented musicians and experience your favourite music in a new light. From tributes to Vivaldi and Queen to performances celebrating Taylor Swift’s hits, there’s something for everyone.
Is there a Vigil Mass on Saturdays?
There is a Vigil Mass on Saturdays at 6:30 pm.
Is there parking at the church?
Given the church’s central location, parking is limited. However, you can find spaces in nearby car parks, such as Q-Park St Stephen’s Green.
Does the church have a choir?
A choir has been filling St Andrew’s with music since its foundation in 1834. What was once a Male Voice Choir made up of boy sopranos, tenors, and basses is today consisting of members such as Kathryn Smith. You might have heard the choir performing on RTE’s Radio Mass or at the opening of the Christmas Lights in Dublin City Centre.
Where is St Andrew’s Parish Church and how can I get there?
Located directly adjacent to Pearse Station, St Andrew’s Parish Church enjoys a central location on Westland Row, just a 5-minute walk from the Dawson Street Luas stop on the Green Line. The nearby Pearse Station bus stop on Westland Row is served by multiple Dublin Bus routes, including 4, 7, 7A, 7D, and 15A. The church is also wheelchair accessible.
Nearby Venues
As well as setting aside some time to visit the historic St Andrew’s Parish Church, you’ll also be near the National Gallery, and the Natural History and Archaeology Museum of Ireland, allowing for a convenient way to cover some of the city’s most treasured buildings. And not only is the wildly popular Candlelight series illuminating St Andrew’s, but it is also bringing its trademark sea of candles and talented musicians to several other venues across the city. Don’t miss out on experiencing the perfect blend of live music and architecture in Dublin’s finest spaces.