Tag: Centenary Celebrations

MSHR Foundation Day 2025

Posted on by admin

Foundation Day Message to the Sisters

"Photo of MSHR Congregational Leader"
Sr Franca Onyibor, Congregational Leader

Sr Franca the congregational leader marks the 101st anniversary of the congregation, celebrating the sisters’ dedication worldwide and encouraging them to deepen their ministry of presence. 

She reflects on the joy of the centenary celebrations, inviting them to embrace the ongoing jubilee year, “Pilgrims of Hope,” by witnessing hope in their communities. 

She also urges prayers for Pope Francis’s recovery and echoes his call to journey in hope while caring for the marginalised, including migrants and refugees.

She pointed out key updates, which include the 2024 General Chapter’s focus on synodality, trauma healing, and strategic growth. Sisters in Cameroon have begun trauma care initiatives, and efforts are underway to expand support to other regions. The Organisational Capacity Assessment is progressing and is crucial for

future funding.

The much-anticipated centenary documentary is near completion, while the Generalate’s move to Killeshandra House, Cavan, will begin in April. The letter also celebrates 15 Jubilarians and provides every sister with a copy of The Second Burial of Bishop Shanahan to 

reconnect with their Founder’s spirit.

She expresses solidarity with sisters facing political shifts in the USA, conflict zones, and global injustices, reaffirming the congregation’s mission for peace and justice. The Nonviolent Communication (NVC) program in Nigeria has fostered reconciliation 

across diverse groups.

Ahead of International Women’s Day (March 8), she calls for renewed action on gender equality. She closes with a blessing from Bishop Joseph Shanahan, wishing every sister a richly blessed Foundation Day as they step forward in faith and hope.

Killeshandra Centenary Celebrations

Posted on by admin

On March 10th 2024, the historic town of Killeshandra in Cavan, Ireland came alive with joyous festivities to mark the Centenary Celebrations of the Missionary Sisters of  Rosary fondly called the “Killeshandra Nuns.” The town was alight with prayers, laughter, music, light refreshments, and storytelling to ignite the spirit of community that has existed between the Sisters and the people of Killeshandra.

The Eucharistic Celebration

The events began with a Holy Eucharist sacrifice at St. Brigid’s Parish Church in Killeshandra, where many gathered to thank God for the Sisters’ contributions over the years. Bishop Martin Hayes of Kilmore Diocese led the beautiful ceremony.

The Symbols

The symbols presented include portraits of Bishops Shanahan and Finnegan, the seven pioneer Sisters, a globe, flags of MSHR mission countries, a Bible, rosary beads, MSHR Constitutions, an oak plant, and soil from the former convent in Killeshandra.

Tree Planting Ceremony

 After Mass, an oak tree, symbolising strength and hope, was planted on the church grounds to honour the legacy of the Killeshandra Nuns, preserving the Holy Rosary Sisters’ connection to Killeshandra for future generations.

 

 

Historical Exhibitions

Guests, locals, and Sisters reflected on the strong bond between Killeshandra and the Holy Rosary Sisters. Through photos and videos, the early works of the Sisters were brought to life, along with the story of the Memorial Cross, erected after the convent was sold and demolished, symbolizing their lasting legacy and impact on past generations.

Cultural Performances

St. Brigid’s Primary School Hall came alive with the sounds of traditional Irish music and dance, as the young performers took to the stage to showcase Killeshandra’s vibrant cultural heritage. In addition, the pupils were recognized with lovely gifts to celebrate their creativity.

 

Refreshments

Guests and sisters shared stories, laughter, snacks, and drinks. A beautiful Centenary Cake was cut by a selected few, with photos taken. It was a time to relax, enjoy the flavors of Killeshandra, honor those who came before us, and dream of the future.

Conclusion

All good things they say must come to an end, but the spirit of Killeshandra Centenary Celebration lingers on, a testimonial to the resilience, dedicated love and service of a community that has stood the test of time. It was wonderful that Killeshandra was a part of this epic commemoration of a milestone event in the life of the Holy Rosary Sisters.

MENU