Anytime the name Eucharia Richardson is mentioned there is bound to be a story told. Such was the life of this colourful and interesting woman that her 100th birthday had to be celebrated in style. The day began in a fitting manner with a Mass of Thanksgiving celebrated by Monsignor James O’Donnell, retired Parish Priest of Macroom. The Liturgy was enriched with music and hymns led by Srs. Patricia O’Donovan and Maria McCarthy.

 Sr. Eucharia Richardson, Macroom community, pictured at St. Columbas, Cork, on her 100th Birthday on Friday 13th August

In his homily Monsignor O’Donnell attributed Eucharia’s long life to the fact that she was born in Macroom on the 13th August, 1910, where, as the saying goes “they never reared a fool!” Other contributory factors were her deep prayer, her serene attitude to life, her lively sense of humour and her gifts of music and song. Eucharia was never shy in performing and in 1989 took the stage in the Opera House in Cork during the Cloyne Sisters “Holy Show.”

Eucharia attended both the Primary and Secondary Schools in her native town, qualified as a Primary Teacher in 1932 and returned to teach in the Primary School in Macroom. She entered the Convent there in 1939 and dedicated the rest of her life to young and old in the town. She had an active role in the local Senior Citizens Branch, was a committed member of the Vincent de Paul and all who came for help to Eucharia always went away with more than material help.

The number of birthday cards delivered by post to St. Columba’s on Friday the 13th is testament to all of the above so it was with great joy that the celebration continued with a delicious meal. A beautiful birthday cake held pride of place in the decorated dining room. Sr. Monica Mohally represented the Provincial Team, an interesting coincidence as Monica’s Mother – Molly O’Riordan – was in school with Eucharia. Monica, on behalf of the Team, congratulated Eucharia on reaching this milestone, Monsignor O’Donnell read President McAleese’s letter of congratulations and presented Eucharia with the Presidential cheque.

Sr. Eucharia’s Cake – 13th August 2010

The celebrations could not conclude without a sing-song, which began with “Mount Massey, the Flower of Macroom.” Eucharia’s repertoire followed: “I can play the piano;” “Teaching McFadden to dance” to mention a few, and finishing with her solo “My Auld Scolaire Hat” which she sang in the Opera House when she was in her eighties!

All in all, the day, the fun and the retelling of stories were a tribute to a much loved Sister who had dedicated her life and talents to all that is Mercy.

 

Consilio O’Hea rsm
Southern Province