The Mercy Journey

July 15, 2009

The Ballymahon Local History Group founded in 2007 took as their first project the telling and publishing the story of the Sisters of Mercy in Ballymahon, Co. Longford. The preface to the book states, "Since the sisters arrived they have worked diligently all their lives for the good of the community in Ballymahon and surrounding parishes. In the beginning they cared for the sick and dying. Then they went on to build schools and devote their lives to educating many generations of children in Ballymahon. We are showing our appreciation to them in this book with many tributes and memories from past pupils, colleagues and local people."

Ann Browne, secretary for the group stated, "13th July 2009 is a great day for us. The Ballymahon Local History Group who wrote "The Mercy Journey from Baggot Street to Ballymahon 1872-2008 in which Catherine McAuley was talked about and written about in our Mercy Journey. Coolock House and Baggot Street were very significant places to us and owing to the fact that our book was such a success and a "Best Seller" for Christmas 2008 we decided to come and visit Coolock House and Baggot Street. It has been a wonderful experience. We had a wonderful day and we felt part of the family of both houses from the moment we arrived. Thank you all.

Ann Browne presents a copy of The Mercy Journey to Caitlín Conneely RSM, the MIC Director. Pictured left to right: Mary Carey, Jean Warde, Rose Moran RSM, Mary Lennon, Philip Murrell, Anne Doris, Pat Kilduff, Kathleen Forbes, Kevin Claffey.