Sr. Marie de Lourdes O'Brien

It is just marvellous to see the wonderful turn out of so many family members for this final farewell. It is indeed a tribute to your love and respect for her. Her family meant everything to her, each and every one of you was special. Likewise it is obvious that she was more than special to each of you. So thank you for being with us. 

You will note from the mass leaflet that Sr. Lourde’s mission in life took her no further than Scotland. However, she was a great missionary at heart and many communities of the home Province were privileged to have had her in their midst. However, it was in Gallen Priory that she spent the greatest part of her life. She loved Ferbane and everything associated with it and was a presence to all with whom she shared life. We will miss her.
Yesterday as we shared our thoughts, we remembered many wonderful aspects of her personality.  The one thing that stood out  loud and clear for all of us, was her wonderful spirit of hospitality. She loved and welcomed people into her life and couldn’t do enough for them. She had such a jovial presence that people found it very easy to communicate with her. In this way she must have shared many peoples joys and sorrows, hopes and fears. She had great devotion to the Rosary and will have prayed this prayer for many a friend in need.

Sally,as the family endearingly called her, was a trojan worker and could put her hand to anything and did it all with a smile. No matter what area of the community needed attention, she was willing to put her shoulder to the wheel, she was in every since of the word a community builder.Last evening, Sr. Clare Houareau, Assistant General of the congregation, was on the phone from Paris, extending prayers and sympathy to the family and the community. She has very fond memories of Sr. Lourdes & Sr. Mamie in the Priory community and feels they must be having a great reunion. As usual we appreciate our chaplain’s assistance with giving Sister the last sacraments and celebrating the Eucharist for her today. We are happy and thankful to have Fr. Pierre Pepper, the Parish Priest of Ferbane, concelebrate with Fr. Desmond.