Carrick-on-Shannon, Leitrim

Drumshanbo, Co Leitrim
Here at the Lodge, we are a community of three sisters who live in close association with the Contemplative group of Poor Clare Sisters. We are involved in Secondary Education, Parish Work and run a small Poustinia which is provided by the Poor Clare Community. As a group we try to follow the maxim of our Foundress Catherine McAuley by making hospitality our special care. We have callers to our home here on a daily basis and all are welcome for a cuppa and a chat. Welcome!

Shannagh Grove Community, Mohill, Co Leitrim
We are a small community in the little historic town of Mohill, Co Leitrim. We are conscious of our rich Historic and Religious background. Four Sisters came here from Longford on March 31st 1880 and so the Mercy Convent Mohill was established. The convent was known as St. Anne’s until it finally closed its doors in 1999. The Sisters then moved to Shannagh Grove where they now reside. The name Shannagh was derived from the Irish “Duibhleacht an tSionnaigh” which means “The Black Grove or Bed of the Fox”. Our new home is a detached house in an estate of 27 houses. The residents are mostly retired people but there are also a few young families. We feel welcome here and we have a good relationship with our neighbours. Our principal ministry is Education with particular emphasis on the less-able students. We are also actively involved in the Parish and especially in the Church Choir. Through our work, our Prayer and our relationships with people we hope to be “the compassionate presence of Christ” in the Parish.

We are proud of our home and rich heritage, and we try to ensure that our house and garden look well. We have quite a big garden at the rear and it is nicely landscaped. The house itself is comfortable. In the true spirit of Catherine McCauley we will give you “a nice cup of tea” and a warm “cead mile failte” when you come.  You can spend many hours walking in the grounds of Lough Rynn Castle House Estate and Gardens. It is only a short distance away. As you browse around the Town you will see the Statue erected in memory of Turlough Carolan (1670 – 1738). He was a great composer of music for the harp – such an achievement when we realise he was blind. The locals will tell you about “The Workhouse” which was situated where the Connacht Gold Hardware Store now stands. It had accommodation for 800 people but no doubt it housed many more during the Famine Years 1845 – 1847. Conditions were horrific according to reports. We could go on and on –  our area is dotted with memories of our history so come along and view for yourself.