An Evening with Cecil Frances Alexander

An Evening with Cecil Frances Alexander at The Old Rectory, Fahan.

Saturday, 15 Nov 2025 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

On November 15^th, 2026, The Churches Trust hosted a unique celebration of poet and hymnist Cecil Frances Alexander at The Old Rectory in Fahan, her former home, for An Evening with Cecil Frances Alexander — an immersive event of music, light sculpture, spoken word, and historical reflection.

This special evening, funded by PEACEPLUS which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and supported by Derry City and Strabane District Council, honoured the enduring and unifying legacy of Cecil Frances Alexander — known for timeless works such as “All Things Bright and Beautiful” and “There is a Green Hill Far Away.”

We extend heartfelt thanks to the Dorrian Family for opening their home in memory of the late Mrs. Pat Dorrian (née Carlin), who held deep admiration for Alexander’s humanitarian work and literary achievements.

Programme Highlights

Panel Discussion – Historians Gordon Smyth (Christchurch, Strabane), Elizabeth Fielding (Friends of St. Columb’s Cathedral, Derry), and Eva Baxter (Enniskillen) explore the impact and charitable legacy of Alexander’s life and writings.

Parlour Concert –An intimate performance by acclaimed folk trio The Henry Girls from Malin, Inishowen, renowned for their harmonious blend of Irish roots and contemporary sound.

Spoken Word & Poetry Recital – Hosted by Kathy Donaghy, award-winning journalist and author of Finding My Wild, featuring original works from members of our Each Bird Sings writing workshops held in Strabane in September and October 2025.

Mini Museum & Light Sculpture Trail – Artifacts from St. Columb’s Cathedral’s Alexander collection, curated by Bridgeen Rutherford inside the house and a magical outdoor light installation, by the Inishowen Carnival Group, in the garden.

Craft & Creativity – A crochet workshop with textile artist Anna Stainsby.

The evening was hosted by actor Susie Garvey Williams, portraying Cecil Frances Alexander, directed by Ruth Garvey Williams of Living Breath Productions - known for bringing historical figures vividly to life.

Light refreshments were served, provided by Corner Coffee of Carndonagh.

A House of History

The Old Rectory holds deep historical significance — it was here that Cecil Frances Alexander lived with her husband, William Alexander, and gave birth to two of their four children during their five years in residence.