Columban Sisters’ Mission Helpers made their way to Magheramore, Wicklow, on Saturday, 18 May for their annual outing. Fr Pat Donohoe, Chaplain, celebrated Mass at which the mission related reflection was given Sister Rebecca Conlon.
Sister Rebecca, who has been on mission in Pakistan since 1989, shared on the life and work of the Sisters there. One focus was the follow-up on the post-flood time experienced by the people in Sindh Province. She recalled the delight of the various families as they moved on from being homeless to being house occupants and then to being house owners: each family received the actual Title Deeds to their house. The Title Deeds were presented to them in a ceremony in which four Bishops from Ireland and members of Trocaire, the Irish Church Funding Agency, took part. Donors from Ireland and many other places were remembered by Sister Rebecca for the generous help given for the housing project.
After the Mass of Thanksgiving, the large group of Mission Helpers repaired to the dining room for refreshments. Lily Hogan, a member of the group, who was retiring after 25 years of service was presented with a gift by Sister Rose Gallagher.
And, as the result of the raffle held during the meal, Lillian Boyd, housekeeper in Magheramore, drew the winning ticket: a voucher for 2 for 2 nights B&B at the Westwood Hotel, Galway, compliments of the Mr Terry Sweeney. In the photo below (Rt) Teresa Bolger, President of the Sale of Work Committee, Lillian Boyd and Vera Brennan*
The Columban Sisters give thanks to the Lord of Mission for the faithful groups of Mission Helpers in our various mission areas
*Postscript: Sadly, Vera Brennan died recently following emergency surgery. Vera had given many years generous service to the Sale of Work and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. May she rest in the Peace of the Lord
