The Vincentian fathers have applied to remove seven items of religious significance from St Vincent's Catholic Church in Sunday's Well in Cork, as part of a deconsecration process.
Among the items they seek to remove from the protected structure is a tabernacle with repousse metal work, a large altar, a timber crucifix, and a large statue of St Vincent, which currently stands outside the building.
The church, which opened in 1856, is one of the finest buildings in the city and closed controversially in June 2016 due to a lack of priests.
A spokesperson for the Vincentian's, Linda Downes, confirmed that they are working with Cork City Council's Conservation Officer as part of the process.
Ms Downes said the items cannot be left in the church and the Order is working with the Diocese of Cork and Ross to identify new religious 'homes' in its parishes for some of the items they are removing.
The proposed location for the altar is the oratory in Castleknock College, while a brass and glass sancturary lamp and eight large brass lights are earmarked for St Peter's Church in Phibsborough.
She could not say how long the process of deconsecration will take as this is a first for the Order in Ireland.
But she added it is very difficult for everyone involved in it, particularly its former parishioners.
