Daring to hope and embrace the unknown 1867 – to the present day
Sr Marie Gabriel nee Elizabeth Connachy, first profession Lyon 1871
From the first Sisters sent from Ireland to the other side of the world was at the invitation of the Marists Fathers, living in Dundalk and Fr Favre, Lyon. From that time up until today, Sisters are working both in Ireland and across the world, hosting a wide range of RNDM missions.
Our first Irish Sister to “embrace the unknown” was Elizabeth Connachy. At the age of 15, she left her farming family in Castlebellingham, Co Louth to join Euphrasie Barbier in Lyon in 1867. Between the early years of her formation and early mission between France and England, Euphrasie recognised Elizabeth, now known as Sr. Marie St Gabriel for her strength of character so missioned her as Prioress of Christchurch, New Zealand in 1877. This young woman was universally esteemed not only by RNDMs but equally by missionaries, the people of Christchurch, Catholic and Protestants alike.
Ground breaking Era 1926-1960
Mission in Ireland was renowned for its generosity despite the long years of suffering due to famine and political unrest, families supported young women to enter religious life whereby vocations flourished. Many Sisters from Ireland including those who emigrated to New Zealand, Australia, UK and beyond, played a key role in opening schools where the State did not provide education, healthcare, social workers or generally caring for the disadvantaged in a parish setting.
1889 Maori Providence, Napier. With the support of Fr Euloge Reignier SM, Sr Marie St Jean (Antoinette Dufour) and the early Sisters in ANZ addressed the need to the Maori and mixed raced society who needed education.
On-Going Call to Mission 2000-2026
The impact of Vat II was a pivotal turning point responding to societal change. Many Sisters moved from established ministries to work more within the local community, with and among the people. We RNDMs along with other Congregations work alongside co-workers and partners in mission to help facilitate people as we face a changing and uncertain Ireland.