The Heath Church was built in 1835. The parish priest at the time was Rev. Nicholas O'Connor (1780-1855). It is known as the Church of the Assumption. No, the church is not subsiding. Michelle just has unsteady hands!
A group of local people started building the Grotto beside the church in 1950. That year was known as Marian Year because it was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Grotto was finished in 1952. The rocks and stones used to build the Grotto came from around an old Mass Rock in Loughshinahawn. The holy water font is the actual font from the Mass Rock itself. During the Penal Days of the 18th century, priests used to say mass in secret at Mass Rocks. They were usually located in remote places. Each year on August 15th (Feast day of the Assumption of Our Lady) a religious ceremony is still held at the Grotto. The Latin words on the gate, Ave Maria, mean 'Hail Mary'.
This is the church bell. It is rung fifteen minutes
before Mass and also for funerals.
