St Michael
Enniskillen, County Fermanagh
St Michael’s is a striking landmark rich in history, architectural beauty, and artistic heritage.
Methodism was introduced to the area in 1763 by William Price, a former soldier in the Inniskilling Dragoons, who established the first Methodist society at Tonyloman, a few miles outside Enniskillen. By 1779, Methodism had reached the town itself.
In 1793, the first Methodist chapel was constructed near Wellington Place to serve the burgeoning congregation. As the community continued to grow, a larger chapel was built in 1846 on Wesley Street. However, this building soon became inadequate for the increasing number of worshippers. To address this, additional land was acquired in 1863, and on June 17, 1865, the foundation stone for a new church was laid by the Earl of Enniskillen.
Designed by architect William J Barre, the new church features a Palladian façade with a Corinthian portico spanning its five bays. This new place of worship officially opened on Sunday, February 17, 1867. Visitors will notice the wrought ironwork around the gallery, designed with the fashionable large hooped skirts of the time in mind, which ballooned outwards as the wearer sat down!
The church has undergone several significant enhancements since its opening. In 1906, under the guidance of Revd RC Phillips and with a generous donation from Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, an organ was installed, enriching the musical aspect of worship services. A comprehensive overhaul and relocation of the organ console took place in 1957, ensuring its continued functionality and prominence within the church.
Throughout its history, Enniskillen Methodist Church has been a focal point for spiritual revival and community gatherings. Notably, in 1859, the church experienced a significant religious awakening, with the Wesleyans, Primitive Wesleyans, and Presbyterians uniting to hold open-air services attended by vast numbers, leading to many conversions.
The church also honors its members who served and sacrificed in times of conflict. Memorial tablets commemorate those who laid down their lives in the First World War, Second World War, and the Falklands Conflict, ensuring their names and contributions are remembered by future generations.
Today, the church continues to serve its congregation and the wider community.