A tree is a beautiful reminder that life takes time to grow and develop. Planting a tree is symbolic of hope in the future, and thus it was most fitting that a tree planting ceremony began an occasion in Ballymahon, Co Longford to mark the long legacy and huge contribution the Sisters of Mercy made through their provision of education in the town. The tree was planted by the three remaining Sisters in Ballymahon, who will soon be bidding their farewell: Sisters Vincent Keena, Maura Faye and Maura Conlon. A tapestry of feelings underpinned this historic gathering in Ballymahon on Friday, May 19th.
It took place in the Secondary School, which had been opened in 1976, with further extensions being added between 1983 and 2,000. Staff and students celebrated the Sisters of Mercy and their tremendous contribution to education and community life in Ballymahon since first arriving in the town in 1872. Mercy Secondary School Ballymahon is very proud of its heritage, grateful for all that the Mercy Sisters have done since setting up the school in 1924.
The tree planting was followed by Eucharist, celebrated by Fr. Liam Murray, in the Sports Hall. Special guests numbered many Mercy Sisters, including retired Principal Sr. Assumpta Falkner, and Sisters Úna Purcell, Dympna Cassells and Elizabeth Manning. Also in attendance were retired Principals Mr Joe Mackey, Mr Jimmy Lennon, Chairperson of the BoM Mrs Mary Kenny, retired staff members and members of the Parents Council. The Sisters received a standing ovation from the student body and staff, as they left the hall to the sound of beautiful singing from the school choir with ‘Walk in the Light’. The celebrations continued in the school canteen where lunch was served and many happy memories shared.
The first Mercy community in the town had been a response to an invitation in April, 1872. In time, Primary School education was established. As it flourished, the provision of Second Level Education began in 1922, being placed under the Board of Education in 1924. The school became co-educational in 1959. The Mercy Sisters finished their presence in the Secondary School in 2012. The school continues to provide an excellent education, as the tree of education spreads its strong branches. May it indeed walk, and dance, in the light!
To read the article that appeared in the Longford Leader, please click here.
Suzanne Ryder
Western Province
