Links of Interest

Liam Lawton, Composer and Singer — Visit Liam's Site

liam lawton"I just want to write music that touches people's hearts and stirs their souls," Liam said to me one day. And it is exactly this that he puts his life, his love and his energy into on a daily basis. He has a fond relationship with the people of Chicago, particularly those who gather to worship at Old St. Patrick's Church on the near west side. He has composed scores for three original works performed at Chicago Symphony Center: Patrick, the Shepherd Boy, narrated by Gregory Peck, Brigid of Kildare narrated by Joan Cusack, and Kevin of Glendalough narrated by John Malkovich. He has published nine collections with GIA publishers in Chicago and his music is well-known throughout the world. In August this year, Liam will be filmed over two days in the Docklands in Dublin for Public Broadcasting. I encourage anyone who is in Ireland August 18th and l9th to get a ticket as soon as possible. Please visit Liam's website for more information about upcoming tours and how to purchase CDs of his music.

Old St. Patrick's Church — Visit their website

old st patsUnder the vision and guidance of Jack Wall, pastor, the church on the near west side of Chicago has risen up out of the despair of near abandonment to being a church that shapes and moves the hearts of people worldwide.  It began its transformation from a church with only four registered members in 1983 to one where thousands worship regularly largely due to extraordinary efforts to reach disenchanted young adults in their twenties and thirties. Today the membership is intergenerational and diverse. Through its outreach efforts there is a presence of OSP in several countries of Africa, in Nicaragua, Peru, and India along with eighteen outreach centers in and around Chicago. Celebrating its 150th year at the crossroads of Adams and Des Plaines, its membership is committed to working 150,000 hours in service opportunities.  Click on the link to read about this extraordinary church whose trademark of hospitality permeates everything that goes on within the walls of its expanding campus.

Jeff Fitzpatrick, Artist — Email Jeff

Jeff FitzpatrickJeff is an artist living and working in the mountains of Mayo in Ireland. He has an enduring relationship with Old St. Pat’s having designed and created the Book of Patrick, a memorial book done in the style of the ancient manuscripts.  Jeff has exhibited his work at OSP and at Chicago Celtic Fest.  He specializes in works on paper, wood, glass, goatskin and textiles.  He will be seen at Milwaukee Irish Fest (August 16-l9th, 2006) in the Cultural Village.  Jeff, a master carver, is available for commissioned works for churches, public buildings, and individuals.

You can reach him at irishcelticilluminations@yahoo.ie.