The two 6th classes had a wonderful day out in town recently. They spent the morning in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where they took part in a stained-glass art lesson and made their own bookmarks inspired by the stunning stained-glass windows of the cathedral.
Following the workshop, the pupils were given a guided tour of the cathedral, highlighting many of its historical features and points of interest. They saw the Boyle Family Monument, which features sixteen members of the Boyle family. The most famous of these was Robert Boyle, the renowned chemist who discovered Boyle’s Law.
The tour then brought the group to the sculpture of Jonathan Swift, a former dean of the cathedral and the author of Gulliver’s Travels. The children were fascinated to see Swift’s death mask and a replica of his skull.
The guide also explained how St. Patrick’s Well was discovered in the cathedral grounds — the site where St. Patrick is said to have baptized many local citizens.
Everyone admired the magnificent West Window, which contains 39 images depicting scenes from the life of St. Patrick.
One of the highlights of the visit was hearing the story of the Door of Reconciliation. The guide told the children about the historic feud between the Butlers and the Fitzgeralds, and how this event gave rise to the well-known phrase “chance your arm.”
Finally, the group was brought to the choristers’ seating area, where the choir sings during many church services.
After the tour, the children enjoyed a picnic on the cathedral grounds before heading to St. Stephen’s Green for some fun in the playground.
J McTeague