A series of podcasts is presented on Spotify, by Evelyn McLoughlin, also known as Sister Loreto. The series is entitled, “Women Made a Difference”. In these five, thirteen minute spoken pieces, Evelyn speaks from her heart about a selection of the women in her life. Some are memories of those already with their Creator, including Catherine McAuley, Evelyn’s mother and her blood sisters. More tales are of Sisters of Mercy who dreamed in a big way, following their dreams, as far away as South Africa, when it was still under the Apartheid regime. Other stories celebrate Mercy Sisters, who made a difference in their ministries in the locality of the Clonfert diocese, where Evelyn herself made Final Profession as a Sister of Mercy. Here, in the detail of how life and death can be marked beyond strict institutional rules, we hear how a difference can be made by those who care.

Sr. Evelyn McLoughlin

Evelyn also shares some of her own personal journey. Going back to her childhood, we hear of her childhood schooldays, and her discernment that began an adventure into convent life. She tells of her college days, the time her study of French brought her to Paris, her teaching ministry and her retirement. Right through the different podcasts, Evelyn/Loreto’s values are evident. Her gracious openness that was attentive to her theme that women indeed made a difference can be heard within the sincerity of her speaking tone. May you too be inspired as you listen.

Evelyn is already the author of five books. The first of these was launched for her 80th year, “Down the Arches of the Years.” This part of her memoir, was followed by “Hurrahing in Harvest” and “Like the River Flows.”  The last two books were prompted by COVID: “These Seeds Fell on Good Ground” and “Mustard Seeds,” in both of which, many of her friends collaborated in sharing reflections.

When you have some leisure time, you are invited to put your feet up, your speakers turned on, click here and enjoy listening.

Suzanne Ryder rsm
Western Province