Kathleen speaks from the podium above

An expectant crowd gathered in the Community Centre of Kilteevan from after seven on Friday the eighth of November and they were not disappointed. Eileen Fahey, Chairperson  of the Centre, welcoming the crowd, spoke of Kilteevan’s pride in its weaver of words, Kathleen.

Dr. Ann Louise Gilligan and Senator Katherine Zappone

Ann Louise Gilligan, with Kilteevan roots, was the one honoured with the task of launching the book. She spoke of the vital need in our time to heal the pain of the Earth with metaphors. These are not lacking in Kathleen’s book.

The centenarian, Mr John Mooney, is pictured above

John Mooney was interviewed by Kathleen during the event. He is celebrated in her book, as he lived in Doogary bog throughout his life, finding many important artefacts there.

Jimmy and Teresa McDermott are seen above with Mary Glennon rsm, Kathleen’s sister

Kathleen was surrounded by family, friends and by members of the Mercy Congregation for the evening. All joined together in celebration of person and place.

Carmel Bracken and Nellie McLoughlin, seen above, have both worked with Kathleen. They are part of the wider Mercy community

Another Mercy Sister present at the event was Máirín Ní Mhurchú, pictured above. She accompanied readings of Kathleen’s poetry with the dulcet tones on her harp

This picture gives some feeling of the number of those present, as well as the enjoyment and enthusiasm they shared

Úna Purcell rsm seen above also provided music on the night, as part of a group of Mercy Sisters, who delighted all with their rendition of Holy Ground

Food was provided by Kathleen’s family, neighbours, community and writing class

 

https://youtu.be/ll3GfjVI_D0

Kathleen gave a beautiful interview on Claremorris Community Radio recently. It can be heard by clicking on the link below and then clicking on the arrow at the left hand of the window.

Suzanne Ryder rsm
Western Province