In 1979 at the Cashel General Chapter it was decided to set up a Mission in Brazil. The Leader and her Assistant visited Brazil and after meeting with several Bishops decided to found the mission in the Diocese of Campina Grande. Four Sisters were missioned to Brazil on the 8th of December, 1982.
Our Foundress Catherine McAuley famously exclaimed, “Hurrah for foundations”, and the group that gathered to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the foundation of the Mercy Mission to Brazil, echoed that cry. Saturday May 7th, 2022 dawned with glorious sunshine, almost as warm as the heat experienced in Brazil. The Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise was the venue chosen for the anniversary celebration and the Sisters gathered from all corners of Ireland. Among them was Sr. Celine Conway, who currently serves in Brazil, along with the others who served there for various lengths of time down through the years. Four Sisters who have passed on to their eternal reward were fondly remembered. Also present were the various Leaders who supported the Mission throughout the 40 years as well as devoted Sisters who fundraise for the various Projects.
The venue was beautifully decorated with Brazil flags and memorabilia in the Brazilian colours, and the Brazilian music in the background created a wonderful atmosphere from the outset.
Those gathered had a unique opportunity to pray and sing together in Portuguese, the language of Brazil, and to reminisce on the early days of life on the mission. The stories shared about the beginnings of the mission painted word pictures of heroic, valiant women fired with zeal for the mission to spread the Good News of the Gospel and to be present to the Brazilian people in whatever way and wherever they could. Physical discomforts, lack of language and distance from home did not deter their pioneering spirits and they enthused others to join with them and spread the Mercy of God wherever they pitched their tents.
A delicious meal was enjoyed by all present and sweets brought all the way from Brazil by Sr. Celine delighted the palattes.
The closing prayer ritual was created around the theme of light, with a large 40th anniversary candle in the centre of the table and each person present lighting their individual candles from the centre one. This symbolised the carrying forth of the missionary light into the future.
Srs. Celine Conway and Gay Kieran
Srs. Celine Conway and Gay Kieran (pictured in the photo) organised the celebration in its entirety and it certainly was a fitting tribute to 40 years of Mercy Mission in Brazil.
We congratulate all concerned and wish Sr. Celine well as she continues to minister in Brazil.
Ailish O’Brien rsm
South Central Province
