Final Profession of Máire Hearty, 9th October, 2022
The air was filled with excitement and gratitude as Sisters, family, friends and colleagues gathered on Sunday October 9th in Mercy International Centre, Baggot Street, Dublin, to celebrate the Perpetual Profession ceremony of Máire Hearty, South Central Province. From the first strains of the opening hymn, it was abundantly clear that the presence of the Lord was indeed moving in that place. So too were the spirits of our beloved foundress Catherine McAuley and all of the Sisters who have graced her beautiful Chapel over the past 195 years. No less present was the spirit of Máire’s late father, and her mother who was unable to attend due to illness. Present also, thanks to the marvels of technology, were those across the globe watching over the internet.
Be still for the presence of the Lord,
The Holy One is here
David J. Evans
Maire Hearty
Sr. Brenda Dolphin, Provincial Leader of the South Central Province, extended a Céad Míle Fáilte to all, thanking everyone who had journeyed alongside Máire to this day. Welcoming Máire, she acknowledged the ‘…voyage of discovery of a Love so deep and strong it can never be denied’ and this Love having drawn her to this day. It was the day on which she was to give public expression to her willingness to respond wholeheartedly to the One who in the words of Psalm 45 had ‘greatly desired’ her soul. Each of the carefully chosen readings spoke of Máire’s heartfelt desire to offer her life in witness and service to this Love. Presiding over the Liturgy was Fr. Seán Cunningham a friend of Máire’s from her days in Co Galway, who reminded her that she had ‘been a guinea pig as he underwent his training in Spiritual Direction’ many moons ago. He spoke of how all of the experiences of her life and each of those who had been part of it have had a role in her vocation to the Mercy way of life.
We hold a treasure
Not made of gold
In earthen vessels, wealth untold
John Foley S.J.
A reverent hush descended as Máire lay prostrate before the altar as the Litany was sung calling on the Heavenly hosts to intercede on her behalf. The emotion and joy was palpable as Sr. Marie Louise White accepted Máire’s vows on behalf of the Congregation. Each Sister in the Chapel, and I suspect all those present across the years, and across the globe, sang with gusto to affirm this special moment, before singing Catherine’s Suscipe. Every aspect of this liturgy was greatly enhanced by wonderful music and singing. Master of ceremonies, Deacon Br. Giacomo ensured that everything ran smoothly.
My God I am yours
For time and eternity
Catherine McAuley
Left to Right: Srs. Marie Louise, Maire Hearty and Brenda Dolphin
In an eloquent Word of Encouragement, Sr. Marie Louise spoke of first meeting Máire and of her infectious enthusiasm on encountering the Sisters of Mercy, having it seemed come upon ‘the pearl of great price’ she had been searching for. She acknowledged the courageous and prophetic nature of Máire’s gift of her life at this time, a step that only love could take. Unpacking the meaning of perpetual chastity, poverty and obedience, which Máire had professed, Sr. Marie Louise called on each of us to renew our commitment. Putting these vows simply she said calls us to love, to share, to serve and to follow Christ closely. She encouraged Máire on this most significant day ‘…to live her life to the full, making God’s mercy visible and tangible in this time and in this culture.’
The Truth will set you free
In a spirit of gratitude and joy all present adjourned to the dining room to continue the celebrations in true Mercy fashion, with a comfortable cup of tea, an array of delicious treats, lots of conversation and laughter. Catherine no doubt would have approved.
Congratulations and blessings Máire!
South Central Province
