“It holds the bread that we believe has been transformed into the body of Christ. That is what we believe and that is why this act of desecration is so distressing” – Bishop Francis Duffy.

“The determination of the bishops, priests and people ... to restore St Mel’s is a source of encouragement and a sign of faith in the community” - Bishop Smith.

Canon Wulfran Lebocq of the Institute of Christ the King needs €6,800 to fund altar for Sacred Heart Church in Limerick's Crescent.

After a massive €30 million renovation programme, using the latest building technology and the skills of master craftsmen and contemporary artists, St Mel’s Cathedral will be officially rededicated on Sunday 17 May 2015.