Tobar Mhuire Monastery Crossgar

The tranquil courtyard of the monastery underwent a meticulous refurbishment revealing a profound spiritual narrative. Steel pillars, glimpsed through the entrance arch, support cast bronze Stations of the Cross, tracing a poignant route through the courtyard to the door of the chapel. A reverent atmosphere permeates this external space as fourteen stations, boldly presented on pillars finished only in rich red primer, beckon visitors to contemplate and to follow the journey of Jesus Christ. At the heart of this sacred haven, and the end of the journey through the courtyard, a solitary white pillar framing a polished brass image of the Resurrection, the fifteenth station. This courtyard embodies the essence of the Passionist Order, honouring their devotion and transforming the space at the heart of the monastery into a profound 'way of the cross.'

At the centre of the monastery lies a special courtyard surrounded by walls of dark roughly-finished basalt stone. This courtyard is a peaceful place where people can find tranquility. Inside, there are fifteen stations of the cross that tell a story of Jesus' journey from one corner of the courtyard to the chapel door. These stations are stunning and visceral bronze figures brought to life by the talented artist Brian Byrne. When you step into the courtyard, you have a decision to make - to follow in the footsteps of Christ and walk the 'Way of the Cross', or to bypass them and enter the chapel directly. It's a place filled with history and spirituality, offering visitors a chance for reflection and contemplation.