The Little Company of Mary order have chosen a very practical way in which to celebrate the life and works of their founder, Mary Potter. They’ve decided on a family fun day, to take place at Corrin Event Centre, Fermoy this Saturday from 10am until 4pm.

A range of workshops on the day will cover such topics as compassionate listening, stress management, outside pressures on the family, God in the bits and pieces of everyday life and how Mary Potter’s dream was further actualised through associates.

Fermoy has had a long association with the Little Company of Mary nuns. Their founder, Mary Potter, was born in London in 1847. Drawn to religious life and with a deep empathy for the sick and those in distress, she joined the Mercy Sisters. She realised her dream of founding her own congregation that would pray for the sick and dying, beginning in Nottingham in 1877 from an old disused factory.

Four women became the first members of her Little Company of Mary. Their mission saw them praying and caring for the sick and dying and helping lapsed Catholics. The congregation grew and spread to many parts of the world with the approval for her order coming from Pope Leo XIIV. She was declared Venerable by Pope John Paul II in 1988. Her remains are interred in the cathedral in Nottingham. Her work and mission continue today in many parts of the world where the sisters are helped and supported by affiliates, associates and volunteers.

FERMOY’S CONNECTION

In Fermoy Sr. Una remains on as the order’s torchbearer, quietly running courses, Bible studies and welcoming people to the hermitage she has established in Fermoy as an oasis of calm for those who are seeking quiet time to reflect and meditate.

To make the event as inclusive as possible, supervised childcare will be available. Lunch and teas and coffees will also be provided. Pre-booking isn’t required, people can simply turn up on the day. Further information can be had from Una Boland on 087 6263934 or by e-mail unaboland@yahoo.ie.