The Kilkenny Gospel Choir is proud to celebrate a remarkable milestone – 25 years of music, ministry, and meaningful outreach. To mark this special occasion, a televised Mass will be broadcast live from RTÉ Studios on Sunday, May 25th at 11am, celebrated by Bishop Niall Coll, Bishop of Ossory.
Founded in 2000 by Fr. Willie Purcell, who continues to serve as choir director, the Kilkenny Gospel Choir has spent a quarter of a century lifting spirits and uniting communities through the power of gospel music. From its humble beginnings, the choir quickly grew into a vibrant and diverse ensemble. At its peak, it became the largest gospel choir in Europe with over 120 members. Over the years, it has welcomed singers from across Ireland and around the world, including Germany, France, England, Austria, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Tobago, and the Congo—truly reflecting a spirit of international unity and fellowship.
A registered charitable foundation, the choir has raised more than €450,000 in support of local, national, and international causes. Their debut album, Kilkenny Sings Gospel, generated vital funds for the Kilkenny Rape Crisis Centre and the Kilkenny Women’s Refuge. Their poignant single, ‘Sleep Little Angel’, supported the Sudden Infant Death Association, and their third album, Somebody’s Praying (2008), benefitted the Irish Cancer Society and Kilkenny Cancer Care.
The choir’s reach has extended well beyond Ireland, with tours across the United States including performances in Washington D.C., Boston, and New York. Memorable highlights include a joint concert with Boston’s Joyful Voices of Inspiration Choir and a special performance at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, New York City. A deeply cherished moment was their performance for Pope Benedict XVI in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City.
While their musical accomplishments are significant, it is their enduring commitment to faith, charity, and service that continues to define the Kilkenny Gospel Choir. “At the heart of our choir is a strong spirituality,” says Fr. Purcell. “We are grateful for the gifts God has given us—our voices, our friendships, and our mission. Through music, we pray that lives are touched, and hearts are uplifted with the love of God.”
As they look back on 25 years of gospel music, the Kilkenny Gospel Choir also looks forward with renewed purpose and hope for the future—ready to continue their journey of song, service, and spiritual inspiration. For more information, visit www.kilkennygospelchoir.com or follow the Kilkenny Gospel Choir on social media.
A special televised mass featuring The Kilkenny Gospel choir with Celebrant Bishop Niall Coll, Bishop of Ossory will be broadcast on RTÉ on Sunday, May 25th at 11am.
