A book titled 'Guide to Connemara's Early Christian Sites', published by the Oldchapel Press, will be launched in St Nicholas' Collegiate Church, by the Very Revd Patrick Towers tomorrow, 19 August at 7pm, and at the Clifden Arts Week on 18 September at 5pm by well-known archaeologist Michael Gibbons.

This book describes and illustrates, together with over 100 full colour plates, the settlements of the early Christian monks and eremitics who populated 25 of Connemara's beautiful yet rugged island and coastline sites dating from the Early Christian to the medieval periods of our history. Also included is a brief account of the Desert Fathers of North Africa, their maritime connections along the Atlantic seaway with the West of Ireland and their ascetic background, which was replicated around our coast. The book also contains details of all the early saints associated with or to whom these sites are dedicated.

This publication will provide valuable information to visitors, students and the residents of Connemara alike in their search for such historical background, which is so much part of our rich heritage.

The author is Anthony M A Previté, former Archdeacon of the Diocese of Tuam and Rector of the Connemara (Omey) group of parishes. Now retired, he lives in Oughterard.

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