Catholic Church
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When the Catholic church of St John the Baptist was built in 1783, the Penal Laws which discriminated against all other religious denominations, particularly Catholics and Presbyterians, in favour of the Established Church, the Church of Ireland, were still in force, although being relaxed.
The church follows a simple 'barn' layout, an architectural style also favoured by Presbyterians at this time. This is indicative of the caution felt as religious restrictions began to loosen, yet the fear that they could be reinstated remained. This rural church was built to accommodate 2000 worshippers, though parish records indicate an average attendance of about 1500 people.
The positioning of the altar on the long wall was a common feature, as it gave practically everyone in the church a good view of the Mass being celebrated. This intimate and central element of worship is not found in larger churches of more traditional design built after the achievement of Catholic Emancipation in 1829.
Original location: Drumcree, Portadown, County Armagh
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