Worship and Historical Significance
St Canice’s Cathedral has been an important site of Christian worship since the 6th Century. For both pilgrim and tourist alike, the Cathedral remains both a hallowed place, and one of significant historical interest. Additionally, St Canice's is the mother church of a bishopric which includes six dioceses and eight counties. It continues to be used as a place of prayer and pilgrimage by those who seek the challenge, comfort, and consolation of God. Regular services are held in St Canice’s Cathedral, and all are welcome to participate.
The Cathedral houses the memorials of the many generations that have gathered within its confines to worship the Lord. Apart from its role as a house of prayer, the Cathedral is at the heart of the heritage of the vibrant city of Kilkenny.
The building’s exemplary acoustics are widely enjoyed each year during the Kilkenny Arts Festival, when the sounds of many voices and instruments entertain audiences who arrive from both near and from afar.
Dean
The Very Reverend Stephen Farrell
Bishop’s Vicar
Canon Richard Marsh
Bishop of Cashel & Ossory
Adrian Wilkinson
A Welcome from The Dean
Welcome to Saint Canice’s Cathedral where for more than 1500 years prayers and praise have been offered to God. This sacred worship continues to be at the heart of our cathedral life today.
This remarkable building stands as an enduring witness to the transforming love of God made visible for us in Jesus Christ. It continues to inspire people to go out into the world to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to follow Christ through lives of daring creativity and deep faithfulness.
This ancient cathedral is where the story of Kilkenny began, and this place gives the city its name – Cill Chainnigh – Church of Cainnech/Canice. This is a place where everyone in our city should find a home and feel a sense of belonging. Whether you have come as a tourist or pilgrim, to experience great art and architecture or simply to attend a concert or event, I trust that you will experience something of the transcendent in the tranquil beauty of this place.
The cathedral is the spiritual home for a lively Christian community where worship, from the simplest prayer to soaring musical excellence, is always accompanied by a warm welcome. We aspire to pray, to serve and to grow in the love of God and our care of God’s people.
More than an artistic treasure and a national monument, this ancient Cathedral Church offers a place of peace, hospitality and welcome. Please light a candle, say a prayer and find comfort in this sacred space.
The Very Reverend Stephen Farrell
Dean of Saint Canice’s Cathedral