Cathal BarryA group of US-based nuns set begin their ministry in Ireland later this year want to “pay back” the Church here for its missionary work in helping to spread the Faith across the world.
Three nuns from the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus congregation will take up residence in the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore in September, working across a number of different ministries.
Provincial Superior Sr Anne Walsh told The Irish Catholic that ministering in Ireland was an opportunity for the congregation to “pay back a little bit of what we received here in the United States”, noting that “many of us were taught by Irish missionaries”.
Sr Anne, who has just returned to the US after a trip to Ireland, said the congregation was “very excited” about starting their ministry in September.
“Three sisters will be there initially. We don’t have any set plan. We will see what the need is for us and what the Lord has in store so for the minute it is a one way ticket,” she said.
Service
Sr Anne, who met with Bishop Phonsie Cullinan during her stay in Ireland, said the sisters would work in “any area the bishop feels we can be of service”.
“I think evangelisation, parish ministry, visiting the sick and youth ministry certainly. We are engaged in all different kinds of ministries,” she said.
Sr Anne said she had a “wonderful impression” of Waterford.
“We were so impressed with the people, we loved just being in the city itself. We met with many wonderful people who just came up and said hello and asked for prayers.
“If we could be a part of sharing the Gospel and be a part of witnessing God’s love in the World our mission will be fulfilled. We just want to share the love of the heart of Christ with the people of Waterford in whatever way that we can,” she said.