St. Enda, Harry Clarke Stained-glass

St. Mary's Church Ballinrobe, County Mayo

By Averil Staunton

St. Enda of Aran

St. Enda, who had been a prince, defended his father’s territory and was considered a warrior. When returning from a successful war he fell in love with a young woman in his sister St. Fanchea’s convent but, through unhappy circumstances was unable to have a liaison with her. As a result he converted to Christianity.

He is depicted in scarlet robes over which hangs a silver cross. 

St. Enda’s symbol as noted by Clarke is “The Aran Isles” and is a stunningly beautiful piece of work by Harry Clarke.

The predella: “Conversion of St. Enda” tells the story of the death of his beloved, which subsequently led to his conversion. Here we see her laid-out, in the southern European style, on her death-bed with St. Enda, in his prince’s garb kneeling alongside and St. Fanchea looking on in the background. 

Thirteen upright candle flames, represent her soul’s departure for heaven.