First Profession of Sr. Bernie O’Grady – September 2004

Bernie O’Grady made First Profession in the South Central Province of the Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy in September 2004. The ceremony took place in the Parish Church in Coolock, Dublin and was attended by many Sisters of Mercy and Bernie’s family and friends.

Bernie (front) and some of those who attended the Profession Ceremony

Sr. Mary Reynolds represented the Congregational Leadership Team and Sr. Helena O’Donoghue, Provincial leaders of South Central Province accepted Bernie’s vows. The ceremony was followed by refreshments for all who attended. It was a wonderful occasion and we wish Bernie many years of happiness as  a Sister of Mercy.

Srs. Michele O’Kelly, Helena O’Donoghue (Provincial Leader), Bernie O’Grady

Final Profession of Sr. Bernie O’Grady – 31st August 2008

‘God is Love’
‘The core of choice is groundless love, which may be answered only by total, unlimited love: the core of the I to the core of the You’ (quotation from Bernie’s Mass booklet)

Bernie, who comes from Hospital, Co Limerick, made final profession of her vows as a Sister of Mercy at a public solemn ceremony in St. Senan’s Church, Kilrush, Co Clare on Sunday, August 31st. In attendance were her parents, sisters, and brother, nieces, nephews and friends and the people of Kilrush. Many Sisters of Mercy from the South Central Province and from around the country were also present.

Sr. Peggy Collins Provincial Leader welcomed everyone to this special liturgy. Fr. Michael Drennan was the chief celebrant at the Mass. In his homily he said that “God is Love and the only response to Love is Love”. He spoke about Bernie’s “wholehearted commitment to God’s call”.

Sr. Coirle McCarthy (Congregational Leader), Sr. Bernie O’Grady and Sr. Peggy Collins (Provincial Leader)

The Liturgy was enhanced by the beautiful music and singing led by the local folk choir of Kilrush. Children who are neighbours of Bernie and Teresa sang ‘This Little Light of Mine’. After the ceremony tea and refreshments were served in the local hall. Bernie, her family, friends and many Sisters later celebrated in Bellbridge House Hotel in Spanish Point.

Bernie spoke of her Profession as an opportunity to give witness to her relationship with God and to publicly commit to that relationship through being a Sister of Mercy. Her mother Catherine stated that it was the most significant day of her life – a day she and her husband so looked forward to. “We are married 46 years and this is the best day of our lives. She is a wonderful daughter,” said her proud parents.

Bernie is currently living in Kilrush, Co. Clare with Sr. Teresa Hogan. Here she is immersed with Teresa in the local community, being with the people in a very genuine and sincere way. The Final Profession was a great day for the O’Grady family, for the Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy and for all the People of God. May God bless Bernie and grant her all she needs to fulfill the words of her profession. May her consecration inspire others to say, “yes” to God’s sacred invitation and call.

Congratulations Bernie and may your life be richly blessed.

Phyllis Moynihan rsm
South Central Province