14/12/2019 - Ireland

Brigid Reynolds writes:   Recently we had the 10^th Annual General Meeting of Social Justice Ireland.  When the formal proceedings were completed the Executive Board and Staff recalled with gratitude and humility what had been achieved over the years. While we did not have a formal celebration, we did take time to remember the many people who helped the organisation in so many different ways since 2009. The Marist Sisters are in this count of generous supporters. (Full story in English)

Catherine Jordan had returned to Tubbercurry after some years teaching in Bray, and with her passionate interest in promoting projects for community development, she felt the formation of an Active Retirement Group would be a worthy goal to pursue. Joining the local Community Care Committee, she shared her dream with her colleagues and won their approval.  An open meeting was held in the local Health Centre in May ’94 and it was decided unanimously to form a Branch. This was done and the Branch has continued for the last 25 years.  (Full story in English)

Elizabeth Gilmartin was invited back to The Institute of Technology (TUD) Tallaght, for the launch of a new Honours Degree programme in Child Welfare and Human Development. This new development came about as a result of work done by Elizabeth during her ministry as Chaplain from 2001-2009. During that time she worked tirelessly on student issues.  Tom Stone, President of the College, reiterated his sincere thanks to Elizabeth for her lasting legacy to the College, as the first woman Chaplain at the College. He noted her love for transmitting her faith and putting in place a Quiet Reflective Garden and Prayer Room.   (Full story in English)

Imelda Layden took up work as a volunteer with LEITRIM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY(L.D.C.) in 2017 to welcome a group of 10 new  families, mostly from Syria, arriving to the town. She began by simply getting to know the families. Since then others have joined her and a programme is in place to teach English and to further the process of Integration. Imelda sees her role as a  Liaison Person, a go-between the families and Coordinators, while the Teachers see to the Classes and do all the work. She says: My role is only a drop in the ocean in the "now" as our students become more and more independent - many have found employment locally and are able to help support their families.   (Full story in English)

Mary C. Duffy tells of a dream come true - at St Anne's Ward for patients with dementia - where many who are acutely ill need to stay for weeks. Clearly what was needed was a quiet, homely space. Now - thanks to the collaboration and generosity of many people - the whole ward has become "dementia-friendly". Mary says: Each room is a different colour which is easily recognisable by patients with dementia. Not only have these colours brightened the lives of our patients but also those who work on the ward and those who visit!  There are benefits all round.  In order to generate conversation and memories we now have four seats on the ward corridor. Memories and conversations bring happiness and contentment and reduce worry for family and friends.  (Full story in English)

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