Derry/Londonderry has had a long and troubled past, stretching back over 400 years. It is a city divided. The recent ‘Troubles’, lasting almost 40 years, ended with the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Much work remains to be done to enable all the citizens of Ulster to live together and participate fully in a shared future.

Cross-community work for the Sisters involves working across the political and religious divide. They do this with individuals and groups who are open to addressing the past history of Northern Ireland and to working towards understanding and healing. A Sister is also actively involved with men and women marginalised by addiction to alcohol, i.e. street drinkers.

“Hands across the Divide” by Maurice Harron

Erected in 1991, the sculpture shows two bronze male figures, their faces revealing little emotion as they stand at the end of two separate histories, facing each other, reaching out, almost touching. For the sculptor, Maurice Harron, reconciliation is a ‘work in progress’.

The Opening of the new Peace Bridge, June 2011

The opening of the Peace Bridge across the River Foyle in June 2011 marked a further step in the symbolism of peace-building. Linking the Unionist community of the Waterside with the Nationalist community of the city-side, the opening of the Peace Bridge has been warmly welcomed by all.