Sisters of Mercy departure ends 91 year association with Spanish Point
It was with deep sadness that we heard that the sisters of Mercy are closing the Convent in Spanish Point. It brings to an end a long connection with Spanish Point and the people of this area going back to 1929 when four Sisters of Mercy from Ennis arrived on July 3rd and opened St. Joseph’s Secondary School two months later, on September 4th with an enrolment of forty girls.
They have left an enormous legacy in terms of Education over all those years and the wonderful school we have today is a tribute to the wonderful work and sacrifices of the Sisters over all those years. In difficult times in Ireland their giving of themselves, their provision of facilities meant that the young people in our community were educated and given a great start.
The wonderful book “ Salty Faces and Ferocious Appetites” tells us about the many people who attended St Josephs from this area, and who are now leading professionals in all walks of life in Ireland and abroad.
On a deeper level it’s the legacy of kindness left by Srs Mona, Angela, Zita, Noreen, Agnes and Lelia along with so many others that lingers on in the heart. In a recent piece in The Irish Times Michael Harding said “I noticed that my mother only visited the Nuns when her own life was particularly troublesome”. As Harding remembered with gratitude the help of nuns
in Cavan, we too remember with gratitude their help and kindness over all those years in Spanish Point. On this weekend we say a huge “Thank You” to all the Sisters, and we assure you that your kindness didn’t go unnoticed, we are the poorer for your going.
Slán go Fóill agus Míle Buíochas. We can certainly say we won’t ever see your likes again in this area.
This article was taken from Kilmurry Ibrickane and Miltown Parish Newsletter Sunday June 28th 2020
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