Kinneigh Union of Parishes
within the United Dioceses
of Cork, Cloyne and Ross  
Church of Ireland - Anglican    

St. Mary,
Desertserges

St Patrick, Murragh
Farranthomas

Christ Church,
Kilmeen

St. Bartholomew,
Kinneigh

Ballymoney National School

(St Paul's Church.)

Desertserges
National School
 

Kinneigh Union of Parishes is situated in a broad tract of picturesque land either side of the fertile Bandon valley. The River Bandon has its source in hills further west. To the south the scene is pastoral with gentle hills and farmland, while the northern side also has moorland and rocky outcrops.

In the centre of the Union, lie the twin villages of Ballineen and Enniskean situated on the R586 main arterial road serving much of West Cork.

The community is largely involved in agriculture with its supportive services. The farms are generally rearing beef and dairy cattle, and work together co-operatively. Within the parish is one of northern Europe’s largest cheese factory producing much of Ireland’s popular brand names. Many other businesses thrive and notably Hosford's Geranium and Garden Centre which has had a new restaurant added to its already expanding business.

The River Bandon is famous for its sea trout and salmon fly fishing; there are many places to stay locally for holidays. The Irish Natural Forestry Foundation at Manch, just between Ballineen and Dunmanway, is a Centre of Excellence and an Outdoor University to demonstrate and promote natural Irish forestry that is socially and environmentally beneficial as well as economically viable. The Hollies is another demonstration of sustainable living.

Four fine church buildings serve the Church of Ireland parish; whilst they are mainly rebuilds from the 1800's, three are standing on extremely ancient religious sites. There are two redundant church buildings and a few other remains of old ecclesiastical buildings.

There are two excellent National Schools (at Desertserges and Ballymoney) supported by the United Dioceses of Cork, Cloyne and Ross, giving a fine all-round education for local children.

Local organisations include the Mothers' Union and Table Tennis. There is an Ecumenical choir which sings for various occasions and a new Joy Club for children of National School Age.

We have an active Children's Church and there is an all denominational Mothers and Toddlers Group which meets in St Paul's Church Centre.

In 2007 a new Youth Club was set up working closely with the Diocesan Youth Officer. We join in with Diocesan events and have our own meetings.

Family History Research

Email genealogy for your family history researches in the first instance.

All Baptism and Burial records previous to 2000 are now at the R.C.B. Library, Braemor Park, Churchtown, Dublin 14  Tel: 01 4923979 library@ireland.anglican.org

Some marriage records are still in the parish from mid 1800's. Enquiries by email please.

Parishioners are generous in their giving, especially to aid and mission. However the cost of insuring four historic churches is huge. Any financial help is welcomed. A gift in memory of your forbears perhaps? Thank you.

For further information contact email