Mags GarganSheila O’Leary, retired sacristan of St Finbarr’s Oratory, Gougane Barra in Co. Cork was honoured recently as a Dame of the Pontifical Equestrian order of St Sylvester.
It was a fitting honour for Sheila O’Leary who gave so much of her time to the church.
On December 29, Sheila was surrounded by her daughters Pauline and Helen and their family along with a host of friends for this momentous occasion. The Pontifical Order of St Sylvester was founded in 1841 by Pope Gregory XVI. It is conferred on lay persons who are active in the apostolate, particularly in the exercise of their professional duties.