About the Chapel:-

The Chapel of St. Columbanus was dedicated in September 1989, on the 10th anniversary of the visit of Pope John Paul II to Galway. The altar in the Chapel was the one used by the Pope to offer Mass for the 'young people of Ireland'  at Ballybrit racecourse that great day in 1979. 

Since it opened, the Chapel has become central to the life of the University. Here the celebrations and the sorrows, the achievements and the fears of the community are articulated, are acknowledged and are prayed for. Mass is celebrated each day and students, staff and visitors visit in a steady stream to light a candle, to whisper a prayer, to sit in peace or simply to find some refuge and rest from a busy, stressful campus.

How to find the Chapel of St Columbanus?

1. Find the main carpark, off Distillery Road, beside the Arts Millenium Building. 
2. Look for the Chapel Archway and the large sign 'Chapel of St. Columbanus' .
3. Go through the Archway to find the Chapel .

Also see map.

Opening Hours ?

The Chapel is open from 8.30am until 10 pm each day during term. Daily Mon-Fri mass is at 1.10pm. Sunday mass is at 1pm & 9pm.

The Chapel is also open from 10am until 7pm each day during holidays.

The Book of Intentions -

Many years ago one of the Chaplains left a large blank artbook near the altar of the College Chapel. He left no instructions or directions or suggestions on what this book was intended for. Over time, students began using this book to write to God, to write of their needs, their pain, their desires and their thanks. There have been many volumes of the book since that first one; each filled with stories of love and loss, of loneliness, friendship, success and faith. There are still no guidelines or rules. However, this book has become central to the life of the Chapel Community. It may very well be the only true account of what life in NUI, Galway is really like for those who live here. Sometimes it is very hard to tell the truth, but nobody tells lies in the Book of Intentions.    

Chapel Facilities -    

Blessed Sacrament Chapel

The Blessed Sacrament is reposed here. This little Chapel is always heated and is a place of quiet contemplation. The flickering red lamp is a reminder of the real presence of Jesus in this sacred space.

Chapel Library

A large collection of Spiritual, Theological and General Interest Books which can be borrowed on an 'honour system'  (ie bring them back when you are finished !). Periodicals are also available such as The Tablet,  The Furrow and  Intercom. It is also an ideal place to study. The College WiFi System covers the entire College Chapel facility.

Chapel Common Room

The Common Room is a place to rest, relax and chill out. Students are welcome to use the adjoining kitchen to make tea/coffee or to prepare or reheat food. All we ask is that you wash up after yourself!  The Common Room also hosts various weekly group meetings including:-

Exploring Theology

Alcoholics Anonymous (English & Polish)

Al Anon

Guided Prayer

Meditation Class

St Vincent de Paul - College Group

Youth 2000 Ireland

Taize

Cookery Classes

'Feeling at Home in Galway' Group for International Students studying at NUI, Galway

Thanksgiving Dinner for our US staff and students