St Finnian’s House, Cregagh Road

In looking forward to the celebration of fifty years of St. Finnian’s in the year 1982 the Select Vestry determined to make it a worthwhile occasion.  They hoped that through the celebrations the parish would grow spiritually.  There would be concern that worship would become more of an inspiration, that people would reach out to their neighbours, near and far.

A major project was undertaken for our neighbours in the parish.  There was a sponsoring of a house for the elderly, an Abbeyfield House.

A house was purchased, 132 Cregagh Road, the former residence of an early parishioner, Dr W.R.N. Galbraith and, after conversion work, it was ready for residents early in 1981.

The purpose of the house is to provide a home, not an institution, for elderly people with comfort, security and friendship in a familiar district.

A housekeeper is employed to cook the main meals and generally to administer the daily activities with the support of a House Committee.

The eight residents each have a measure of independence with private accommodation.

St Finnian’s House was officially opened by Mrs Christine Eames, LLB., wife of the then Bishop of Down and Dromore, on 14th October, 1981.

Extract from St. Finnian’s Cregagh by David Hammond

Abbeyfield provides:

  • Independence
  • Companionship
  • Privacy
  • Security
  • Home Cooking
  • Assistance with laundry and cleaning
  • 24 Hour staff cover
  • Emergency call system
  • A comfortable, caring and affordable way of life for older people