Mags GarganPope Francis has awarded Sr Emmanuel Kilkelly RSM the Bene Merenti Medal for her exceptional long and dedicated service to the Church and the parish of New Ross, Co. Wexford.
Sr Emmanuel, who celebrated her 90th birthday recently with her family and community, entered the Mercy Convent in New Ross on December 18, 1943 from Co. Mayo. Having taught in both St Joseph’s Primary and St Mary’s Secondary Schools in New Ross, on her retirement Sr Emmanuel became the first secretary of the then newly formed parish office and later, part-time sacristan in the parish church, a position she continues to serve.
The presentation was made at Mass in St Mary’s & St Michael’s Church, New Ross, by Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Charles Brown – by happy coincidence, a relation of Sr Emmanuel.