Presentation nuns set for major merger

Merger between two key Presentation provinces will result in the creation of a new Irish province set to take effect in January 2015

Presentation nuns here are gearing up for major overhaul of their order as part of an extensive restructuring process occurring throughout the congregation.

It has emerged that a significant merger between two key Presentation provinces will result in the creation of a new Irish province set to take effect in January 2015.

The decision to form a new Irish province by amalgamating the Northern and South Eastern provinces came after intensive talks between members of the order and congregational leaders within the Presentation Sisters Union.

“This is a way to release new energy for life in mission, especially in relation to spirituality, community life and ministry,” a spokesperson for the Presentation Sisters told The Irish Catholic this week.

“The Congregation is working towards greater collaboration and participation and the decision has come out of a period of discernment and reflection regarding how the Congregation will be organised into the future,” the spokesperson said.

The Northern Province of the Presentation Sisters in Ireland comprises Presentation communities from the Archdioceses of Armagh, Dublin and Tuam and the Dioceses of Down & Connor, Galway, Kildare & Leighlin, Kilmore and Meath.

The South East Province encompasses the dioceses of Cashel & Emly, Ossory, Waterford and Lismore, Ferns and some of the Archdiocese of Dublin.

In 2008 there were 257 sisters in 33 communities throughout the Northern Province, while there are currently 192 sisters living in various sized communities across the South East Province.