St. Enda, Harry Clarke Stained-glass

Photo: Illustrative image for the 'St. Enda, Harry Clarke Stained-glass' page

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.

This page was added by Averil Staunton on 14/08/2013.
Comments have been temporarily disabled while we update the site. They'll be turned back on when we launch the new version of the site in a few weeks' time.