The Church Bell and Clock
The inscription on the bell reads: "Matthew O Byrne Fountain Head Bell Foundry James’ St. Dublin 1902 In Honour of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph and in memory of deceased priests of the Parish. Very rev. E.O’Reilly P.P. 1902" An entry in the register of burials at Mountbolus states that the Bell first tolled on the 13th January 1903. The bell was automated in 1985 The Church clock that replaced an earlier folly was installed in conjunction with the automation of the bell. The work was carried out by John Smith and Son (Smith of Derby) at a cost of £5241.50 The clock and automation were donated in remembrance of the Leonard family, Rathlihen.
Statue of St. Brigid
At the corner of the cemetery stands a statue of St. Brigid, to whom the Church is dedicated. The saint is portrayed holding a lighted lamp - a symbol of faith. As we think of Brigid’s faith in Christ, the light of the world, we remember all those who have passed this way through the centuries, to work, at leisure, to go to worship at lady well or one of the many houses of prayer that have been in the parish, we give thanks to God that the message of faith is heard in our day too.
Related Buildings
To the left of the Church in Mount Bolus is the old school building that was erected in 1850. This building served as the school until 1911 when a new premises was opened nearby. The old school became used as a hall, thereafter, and provided the location for many functions and dramas. Part of the old school is home to the Village Folk Museum.
In 1976, a new Community Centre in Mountbolus was opened on a site given by the Parish adjacent to the Church. This centre has served the community well since its opening, being used for all types of social occasion.