An Appreciation

to the

Sisters of Mercy

Sunday 8^th September 2013

By John Gallen

We are very much in a state of shock in coming to terms with the realization that the convent is closing and that many of the sisters are leaving the area. It has caught us all unawares, and has left us feeling very sad..... because the Mercy nuns and the Convent were at the very heart of our community.

The Sister’s contribution, in terms of education and health care to the development of Castleblayney is inestimable. But it is not just their work and their enormous financial input that we acknowledge....but the spirit in which it was all done.

True to the teaching of Catherine McAuley, theirs was always a joyful, generous giving. We came to accept..... and, indeed, take for granted.... a convent door that was always open and welcoming to everybody.... be it townspeople...visitors.... new nervous teachers... priests... bishops or a man of the road, passing through.

We met the nuns on our streets... at our gatherings.... in the convent... in our homes... in our schools and hospitals.... as they wove their way in and out through our lives. They were always there... a constant presence, whatever and wherever the need....quietly helping and supporting... sharing our joys and sorrows... just be-ing one of us.

The seeds that were sown in 1905 have, over the 100 plus years, sprouted for all of us.... in spiritual growth... learning.... music and songs... and much shared laughter and joy.

So, it is with very grateful hearts, that we acknowledge their immense contribution to Castleblayney and say our sincere thanks.

The strong foundation that they have laid, and the Spirit of Mercy which they have instilled, is our rich heritage. It is up to us now, to fully support the sisters who are remaining, so that together, we can continue to grow in faith and confidence.

The Castleblayney of 1905 rejoiced and celebrated at the arrival of the first Mercy Sisters and subsequent building of the Convent, the school and the Chapel, and the transformation of what was once the workhouse St. Mary’s hospital. We, the people of 2013 are called to a different awakening.

We offer our sincere thanks to all the Sisters here present, and to many Sisters of the past, whom we recall with love and affection.

Wherever the road takes each of you from here on.... our good wishes and blessings go with you.

And all our special wishes are with our very own Sr. Celine. The work that she has accomplished..... and continues to accomplish... in our Parish is way beyond measure. 

To Sr. Celine...... and to all of you..... Sisters of Mercy........ from all of us......

Thank you.