It was standing room only – and even that was at a premium – as several choirs from the community showcased their talents at a stunning Carols by Candlelight gathering in St Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday night.

Pictures: Valerie O’Sullivan
One of the biggest crowds ever witnessed in the magnificent church enjoyed close on three hours of high quality entertainment in an event Killarney Parish Administrator, Fr Kieran O’Brien, said could be summed up in one sentence – Killarney’s got talent.
“To witness St Mary’s Cathedral filled with the community of Killarney, joining together from all walks of life, to sing carols and play music was such a privilege,” he said.
Seats were difficult to come by long before the 7.00pm start time with close on 400 performers in total lined up to sing carols, hymns and seasonal numbers from the altar.

Bishop of Kerry, Ray Browne, joined hundreds of people in the audience which was made up of proud parents, siblings, grandparents, neighbours and friends.
It was a real community event and the local business community was represented by Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce Joint Presidents Johnny McGuire and Pádraig Treacy.
A total of 10 choirs from Killarney parish joined together to sing some of the world’s most beloved Christmas carols and the service was directed by accomplished violinist and choral director, Paula Gleeson, whose husband, Michael, was the master of ceremonies.

Originally from Cork, Paula’s family have been involved in all aspects of choral and church music for 50 years.
School choirs that participated were St Oliver’s, Presentation Monastery, Gaelscoil Faithleann, Lissivigeen, Holy Cross Mercy, St Brigid’s Secondary School, Killarney Community College and St Brendan’s College and also participating were the St Mary’s Cathedral Parish Choir and the Killarney Harmonisers as well as musicians Brian Murphy and Jack McCrohan with a special closing ceremony piece by Allie Casey before the entire congregation joined together for a rousing rendition of O Come All Ye Faithful.
The big event in the cathedral was sponsored by Killarney Credit Union, Sheahan’s, JM Reidy’s, Cllr John O’Donoghue, The Laurels, The Victoria Hotel, Adams Jewellers and Quill’s.
Happy Christmas from KillaneyToday.com Call 087-2229761 or email news@killarneytoday.com