Convent of Mercy, Mallow was closed for major renovation from 2008 – 2012. During that time the Sisters were rehoused at a vacant nursing home at Fairy Hill. On 2nd February, 2012 the community gladly returned to their former home, the “New Mallow.”
Welcome to the “New Mallow”! Next stop the Promised Land!
Mallow Convent
We’re back on the solid foundation of one hundred and sixty two years of “The Top Convent” as it used to be affectionately called by our Mercy Sisters in Holy Spirit Convent in bygone days. During our exile in the leafy suburbs of 63 Fairy Hill from 2008 to 2012 we were strongly animated by the same spirit of courage as is evident in our town’s crest “Per Ignem et Aquam,” a motto that reflects the vicissitudes of the history of Mallow Town. Our spirits were uplifted in anticipation of the dawn of a new era of Mercy living in our refurbished Convent. It now stands majestic overlooking the town and pointing heavenwards. Our two towering beech trees at the gate are in this season of resurrection symbolic of a “beauty ever ancient ever new.”
We would like to record the immense gratitude we owe to Srs. Liz, Veronica, Hilary, not forgetting Valerie, Liam Long, Architect and the Cantwell Brothers, Building Contractors. Together they produced a project of genius and artistry. Of course we, the community, hovered in the wings with watchful eye. As I look out at the glistening fountain, a home to five frisky fish, our only lifestock, my Te Deum is “all this and heaven too.”
We got a “Céad Míle Fáilte” on that eventful day of return February 2nd. Sr. Veronica and her welcoming party prepared a special Evening Prayer and we enjoyed a delicious tea. On our first morning home, Mass was celebrated in our new spacious chapel, the central gem of the building with our golden tabernacle restored. This was given in 1945 on the occasion of our centenary as a gift by the people of Mallow. Above it hangs the figure of Christ with arms outstretched in a gesture of welcome.
Chapel
Our neighbours were delighted to see the Convent once again a place of welcome. They were a part of our Community for morning Mass for as long as we can remember and stood in awe when they visited the Chapel, admiring its space, light, and the stained glass window fully restored. Teachers, friends and relatives called to say “Fáilte ar ais” (welcome back) and were welcomed with the cup that cheers. Cards, letters, flowers galore all conveyed a feeling of joy and appreciation.
The furnishings, curtains, floors etc. are much admired for quality and mild colour blends. We have one favourite relaxation spot called “Gossip Corner,” where we meet, have a cuppa, chat, as we view the Galtees, the tender grass shooting up in the grounds or the cattle browsing in our nearby fields. Our new rooms for ministry are a new and welcome feature. We have christened them “The McAuley Rooms.” Already these are well used for prayer and reflection.
We, Sisters, spent a few days finding our way around and are most grateful for the extra facilities. At first we were bewildered by the high tech – codes for doors, soft toned phones, a lift with a London accent, a kitchen fitted with the most modern apparatus that constantly buzzes and hums.
The enclosed garden has an array of shrubs, some apple trees and plenty of paths for walking. The kitchen garden will, in season, produce fresh vegetables, potatoes and herbs. We look forward to a flourish of tomatoes in the greenhouse. The area is JJ’s haven. As our caretaker and gardener he has kept an eye on the grounds during the building work and is happy to be able to begin cultivating once more.
An added joy for us is that Sr. Stanislaus Galvin and Sr. Joan Corridan from Kanturk and Sr. Perpetua O’Donoghue from Buttevant have joined our ranks.
One aspect of our journey back has been tinged with sadness by the death of Sr. Francis O’Donovan on January 14th and Sr. Patricia Donovan on April 19th. Both had shared our lives for over sixty years and were longing to rejoin us but it was not to be. Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh siad araon! (That they may be at the Lord’s right hand).
Our wish is that every person who enters our Convent may enter one day the gates of Heaven.
Ita Looney rsm
Southern Province
