Daniel O'Donnell to lead concert to help rebuild burnt Donegal church
Stephen Maguire
Daniel O'Donnell and a host of other stars are to appear at a concert to raise funds to rebuild a Co Donegal church burned to the ground in a mystery fire last weekend.
St Mary's Church in Derrybeg, Gaoth Dobhair was gutted when fire ripped through the building in the early hours of Monday morning last.
Investigations are still ongoing into the cause of the blaze with Garda forensic experts still sifting through the ashes of the once stunning octagonal-shaped church.
A Go Fund Me campaign has already raised more than €40,000 towards the rebuild of the church.
Now a star-studded concert is set to add even more funds towards the cost of the rebuild.
As well as Daniel O'Donnell, Clannad's Moya Brennan and Altan's Mairead Ni Mhaonaigh have vowed to play at the concert this Saturday night at Teach Phaídí Óig in Crolly.
A spokesperson for the organisers said "As many of you know, our beloved parish chapel in Gweedore Doirí Beaga was tragically destroyed by fire — a place where we celebrated life’s most important moments, a symbol of faith, family, and hope for generations.
"Now, it’s time to give back to the place that gave us so much.
"We are hosting a Fundraiser and Volunteer night to support the rebuilding of our chapel and to renew the spirit that holds our parish together. Join us — whether by donating, volunteering, or simply sharing your support.
"Every hand, every heart, every small act of kindness will bring us closer to seeing our chapel rise once more."
Parish Priest of St Mary's, Fr Brian O'Fearraigh, said the church will rise from the ashes again.
“We are a resilient community and will stand together to support one another in this moment of deep grief and sorrow,” the statement read.
“We will rebuild our church with a renewed hope for a brighter future," he said.
