Billboards Spark Reflection in Mount Merrion’s St Thomas’ Church

A church billboard in Mount Merrion, Dublin, is inviting reflection among passersby with its thought-provoking message. Located at the intersection of Foster Avenue and the Stillorgan dual carriageway, the sign at St Thomas’ Church reads, “Stand up for what you stand on. There is no Earth 2.” This slogan, unveiled recently, is part of a long-standing tradition that aims to offer calm and insight in an often chaotic world.

The current message is one of many that have appeared over the years, each designed to resonate with the community. According to the church’s rector, Gillian Wharton, who has served for over 21 years, the tradition of changing the billboard slogan annually dates back long before her tenure. Wharton notes that the messages often blend humor and profundity, transcending their original religious intent.

In previous years, some slogans have taken a more light-hearted approach. One memorable phrase, “Jesus the carpenter is looking for joiners,” led to a direct response from a local man who identified himself as a joiner—though he turned out to be a taxi driver. Such interactions highlight the billboard’s role as a bridge between the church and the community, encouraging engagement through its eclectic messages.

The tradition faced a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, when spreading the word became challenging. A committee will convene next week to brainstorm ideas for the upcoming 2025/26 slogan, welcoming suggestions that aim to provoke smiles or deeper thought. The community’s involvement in this process illustrates a shared investment in the church’s outreach efforts.

The choice of location for St Thomas’ Church is particularly fitting. Foster Avenue, named after John Foster (1740-1828), the last speaker of the Irish House of Commons, embodies a dual meaning. It emphasizes the act of nurturing or encouraging growth, whether it be in ideas, children, or, as the community has experienced, a sense of belonging.

Notably, other places in Dublin also feature streets with significant names. For instance, Dublin’s own Hope Street, like its counterpart in Belfast, serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between aspiration and reality. In contrast, the billboard on Foster Avenue promotes a sense of optimism and contemplation, steering clear of the fire-and-brimstone rhetoric often associated with more fundamentalist messages.

The presence of St Thomas’ Church at this bustling junction signifies its role as a point of guidance and reflection for those navigating the complexities of daily life. Wharton reflects on the church’s mission, stating, “Our aim is to connect with the community in a meaningful way, to offer insight and perhaps a chuckle amid the seriousness of life.”

In a city known for its vibrant culture and rich history, the church’s billboard serves as a contemporary touchstone. It’s a reminder that messages of hope and introspection can flourish even in the most unexpected places. As the community prepares for the next slogan, it is evident that the tradition will continue to foster connections and provoke thought among generations to come.