Dublin (Ireland) On 23 October 2020, the Province of Our Lady Queen of Ireland (IRL) celebrates the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in Ireland (1920-2020). The first four FMA, three Italians and one English, arrived in Limerick at the request of Bishop O’Halloran, who as a young priest had met Don Bosco in Turin.
A publication presented on 28 February 2020 during the Visit of Mother Yvonne Reungoat to the IRL Province, narrates the history of the beginning of the FMA works in Ireland. Sr. Sarah O’Rourke, one of the authors of “Against the Odds” writes: “I think the thing that struck me most was that the sisters started a Foundation in a war zone … I’m not entirely convinced that we have fully appreciated the risks and the courage that was required of those pioneers.”
In spite of the dangers, these Sisters soon opened a night school for the young girls who had not had the opportunity to frequent the regular school. From these humble beginnings arose a flourishing apostolate in the schools and oratories, and very soon vocations began to arrive. Many of these became missionaries in the whole English-speaking world and beyond.
Due to the limits imposed by Covid 19, it was not possible to carry out many scheduled events. Although it is not possible to gather to celebrate, we will gather for an Evening Prayer prepared by the Provincial Council.
Congratulations Sisters! The Province of SEC enjoyed one of your missionary sisters, Sr. Rose McShane! Be sure of our prayers and gratitude for your faithful service to the Institute.