Presentation Sisters Union
News Update November 2010
Print Version
Feature Article – November 2010
Spotlight on India
Greetings and blessings to all our Sisters and Friends of Nano around the globe as we celebrate Presentation
Day. This month in our feature we highlight stories from India. Below are some of the news articles
received during the month from our Sisters in India.
Exposure Experience at the Mining Areas in Goa
Instead of the usual input, this year's annual meeting of the Justice Core Teams opted to learn through firsthand experience how mining has impacted on the land and its people.
Abuses of Land
This year for our annual meeting of the Justice Core Teams from each of the four Circles we decided that
instead of the usual inputs we would learn through firsthand experience how our precious land is being
abused by the mining industry and by the SEZ’s (Special Economic Zones). Since we have taken the two
issues of LAND and FOOD SECURITY to counteract corporate greed in keeping with the focus of the IPA
Assembly of 2007, this exposure was very timely.
We travelled by bus through some very beautiful and scenic parts of Goa along the forest covered mountains
of the Western Ghats, the home and the source of life for many species of animals, birds, insects, trees,
plants and the unique flora and fauna of this region - truly a diverse and life-giving eco-system. However, as
we travelled into the interior we were shocked to see the glaring reality of the massive destruction and
devastation caused by open cast mining. The beautiful forested mountains were gone and all we could see
was the ugly red sand piles made by the work of the mines.
We were guided by Mr. Sham Sunder, a social activist through the mines in Bicholim Taluka (Advalpar and
Srigao). We were surprised to learn that the Srigao mines extend to 14 km forming the longest mining belt
of Asia. Most of the mines are in the interior and are not seen on the main roads of Goa.
Negative Impact of Mining
It was heart rending to see firsthand the negative impact of mining:
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The dust raised by mining has caused serious health problems to the people of the area. ” We live, eat and
breathe dust” they said.
Thousands of open trucks carrying iron ore pass daily through the villages from the region´s mining areas
creating roadblocks, dust and noise pollution.
Dust from the mines is choking the growth of cashew, coconut and betel nut trees.
There is a depletion of natural water springs and the water table. We saw many wells that were dry even at
the height of the monsoon season. People now throw garbage into them.
Water sources are no longer safe as iron ore tailings are dumped into rivers.
Paddy fields have been destroyed and agriculture is at a standstill. Indiscriminate felling of trees is leading
to mud slides and flooding.
There is a total destruction of the eco-systems of the area and of the natural flora and fauna.
Acacia trees, which are not native to India and are actually harmful to the water table, are being planted to
make a show of forestation.
There is a divide and rule policy of the industrialists and politicians, specifically through the promise of jobs
to the local population. This has not been the case due to heavy mechanization of mining.
Colonization of a different kind is being experienced
Displacement of the people is giving rise to poverty and a migration to the already crowded cities for work.
Response
Mr. Seby Rodrigues , the resource person for the evening, elicited from the group their feelings, hopes and
how they could play a supportive role in lobbying with the movement.
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News Update November 2010
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We were inspired by the persistent struggles of the people, despite heavy odds, to keep and preserve this
precious heritage. Despite what is happening we are all called to be part of creating a ‘New heaven and a
new earth’.
Special Economic Zones
The next day we once again left by bus to visit the sites demarcated by the Governmnet for SEZ’s – Special
Economic Zones.
Mr. Seby Rodrigues and Miss Swati took us to Keri, a village near Ponda, with a population of 5,000 to give
us first-hand knowledge of an area notified by the government of India for the establishment of a SEZ by
Meditab Specialties Pvt. Ltd. The area specified is roughly about 300 acres. This land has always belonged
to the community called Bhut-khan. For the people of the area this land is a very holy place, a spiritual
abode as well as source of water.
Way back in 1995, the Government made an effort to sell away the land to the DuPont Multinational
company for the manufacture of rubber tyres, at a throw away price of 80 paisa per square metre. The
people of the place started an agitation, during which a young man was shot dead. The people were
victorious and the deal did not take place. In 2007, Keri was again targeted as one of the three places
notified to start a SEZ. The developer would be CIPLA. When the villagers saw what was happening, about
200 of them assembled spontaneously and gave the ‘order’ for the machines to be taken out of their holy
place. This led to the formation of the SEZ Virodhi group. They have taken the matter to the High Court
and got a Stay Order on any further development of the area.
Later we visited Amad-Keri where illegal stone crushing operations are going on in stone quarries despite
the license period having expired. People living in the area of the quarries are neglected and suffer great
hardship as their houses are under threat from the falling stones. The issue of the illegal quarries has been
taken to the High Court, where the matter is still pending.
[Submitted by Sr. Lisa Pires and Sr. Ida Ferrao.]
Annual Day Celebrations
Sr. Prabha Puthota writes of the Annual Day celebrations at St. Columban's A. I. Hr. Secondary School,
George Town.
We at St. Columban’s A. I. Hr. Sec. School, George Town, celebrated our Annual Day with great enthusiasm
with the sole aim of encouraging the talents of our students and to appreciate them for all their endeavours
and achievements. The distinguished Chief Guest for the evening was Mr. K. Gnanadesikan IAS, The
Principal Secretary to Government of Tamil Nadu, Home, Prohibition and Excise, whose message on the
role of students, parents, teachers and the management in enhancing a stress free study ambience for students
was a soul stirring eye-opener. He graciously distributed the prizes for academic excellence for the year
2009-2010.
Cultural Programme
The cultural programme organised by the Principal, staff and students was highly appreciated by the Chief
Guest, friends and parents. The English Play My Fair Lady reiterated the importance of fostering language
skills and etiquette. The Tamil Play Thooliyin Kural struck a chord when it laid stress on the value of a
cordial relationship between the parents and children. The play was convincing and emphasised that
children had a right to enjoy their childhood, be stress free and safe from the snares of cyber crime. The
International Dances and the Classical Dances were power-packed and added vibrancy to the show. Go
Green was environmental friendly and portrayed the importance of the conservation of soil, water and plants
and laid stress to the safe bequeathing of the earth to our progeny. The evening ended with a Tribute to
Tagore whose 150th birth anniversary we commemorate this year. The high tech rendition of the Annual
Report and the National Anthem using the visual media was unanimously appreciated by the audience.
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Presentation Sisters Union
News Update November 2010
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Annual Report
The Annual Report illustrated emphatically, that our school activities adhered to the charism and mission of
the IPA Goals. Our mission has always been to mould individuals with courage, confidence, conviction,
integrity, sensitivity and a strong sense of the divine in their lives. This is accomplished through our daily
prayer services filled with thought–provoking insights, meaningful assemblies on special days like Republic
Day, Independence Day, Women’s Day, Children’s Day, World Environment Day, Teachers’ Day,
Presentation Day and Religious festivals that are based on relevant themes which convey a powerful message
to the students.
In order to create a sense of responsibility among the students towards the earth we live in, World
Environment Day was celebrated on June 5th with the theme The Planet Needs You. Unite to combat the
climate change. Suggestions were given to save the earth and also how to handle and hand over the earth
with care to the next generation.
There is a growing violence and disrespect to life in our society today. Children around the globe have
become victims of abuse and terror. The Supreme Court has passed orders and the new Education Act by the
Central Government of India has put a ban on corporal punishments to children in schools. On July 16th
2009, a seminar on Child Rights was conducted by the Management to the staff in order to enlighten them on
the child protection policy and the rights of children. The Speaker used a short documentary film to illustrate
the kind of child abuses that take place around the world today. The norms and rules passed by the United
Nations to protect the rights of children were also highlighted in this seminar. At St. Columban’s we nurture
every child as a precious gift from God and use constructive methods to inculcate discipline among them.
The Annual report also revealed that the primary aim of the school activities was to safeguard the children
against any form of abuse or peril, to inculcate a strong conviction in them that they have to give back to the
society what they have received from it and so we take them on periodical visits to community centres, old
age homes, homes for the mentally retarded children and underprivileged children. The students were taken
on a visit to Kanakkammachatram, the place where The Presentation Sisters are striving to uplift the socially
and economically backward class of people.
Thus both the year and the Annual Day has left us with the immense satisfaction that we at St. Columban’s
have not only accomplished academic excellence but have also kept the lantern of Nano Nagle burning in
every one’s heart within our portals.
[Submitted by Sr.Prabha Puthota]
CLT News
Presentation Day 2010
Blessings and greetings to you from the CLT as we celebrate Presentation Day.
As preparation for this Feast, we have journeyed together in our Novena prayer with Presentation Sisters and
Friends of Nano all over the globe. The Novena was an inspirational invitation to reflection and
contemplation on the theme Awakening to the Mystery of God and we are most grateful to the community
of the Nano Nagle Centre in Ballygriffin who created it.
Each day we were invited to awaken anew to the mystery of all life and to the immensity and power of
Creator God who loved us into being. As Mary of the Cosmos is awakened to the mystery of the Divine
within herself so we are called to re-discover our own capacity to carry the sacred and to allow the life of the
Universe to flow through us, enfolding all of life in love and peace.
This year we are celebrating Presentation Day with our sisters in India and the Philippines. Srs. Terry, Emer,
Mary Deane and Mary Hanrahan are currently in Church Park, Chennai, meeting with the extended
leadership team of India (leadership of the Unit and the circles). Sr. Joan is presently facilitating a circle of
life with the sisters in the Philippines. During the past few months Mary Hanrahan and Joan have visited the
sisters in Pakistan.
As we meet at the Church Park campus in Chennai we are surrounded by a number of schools and
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Presentation Sisters Union
News Update November 2010
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institutions where over 4,000 young people are being educated and trained. In preparation for Presentation
Day there are numerous assemblies, gatherings and celebrations as students and staff re-call our founding
story and our rich Presentation heritage in various creative ways.
As we celebrate this great Feast across the Presentation world, our prayer is that we continue to be drawn
deeper into the mystery of God, the Mystery of Oneness.
Congregational Leadership Team
Presentation News
Eco-Club Inter-School Debate
On 10th November 2010, the Eco-Club of the school held its annual P.C.S Eco-Club Inter-School Debate.
Many eminent schools of Delhi participated to vie for the beautiful tree-shaped trophy.
The topic chosen this year was Environment and Development: an Antagonistic Combination. The aim
was to exhort the future denizens to respect earth and life in all its diversity, especially when the entire world
is observing 2010 as the International Year of Biodiversity. The chief guest was Sr. Grace - the president of
the Presentation Society of India.
Our special guests of honour were Mr. Dharmender, Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Dr. Sabata
– Chief Scientific Officer, from the Delhi Government.
Other highlights of the day included a powerpoint presentation by the Eco-Club Coordinator Dr. Meena
Jethi, to demonstrate the schools multifarious environmental activities. A riveting and meaningful dance
performance followed soon with a powerful message ‘SAVE THE PLANET EARTH’.
Our Annual Environmental Newsletter Dewdrops, whose theme was in accordance with the International
Year of Biodiversity, was also released amidst much fanfare by Sr. Grace, our Chief Guest and Mr.
Dharmender, our Guest of Honour.
Sr. Grace’s words of wisdom enlightened the young audience, especially when she pointed out pertinently
that ‘We can nurture our Mother Earth by giving equal importance to both the environment and
development’.
Mr Dharmender, Secretary to Minister of Environment, our Guest of Honour’s eloquent and appreciative
words ‘ A very progressive school with great concern for the environment’.
[Submitted by Sr. Molly]
Celebrating Children's Day at Presentation Convent Delhi
The Children's Day celebration on 12th November was a day of fun and fanfare for the students and was
marked with great festivity in the school. The entire school was decorated with colourful balloons and the
spirit of Children's Day was overwhelming.
Fun Day for Children
There was a diverse assortment of activities lined up for the students. The morning assembly organised by
all the sisters and teachers was an impressive display of entertainment with a message. The Senior
coordinator in her welcome speech brought to light the importance of Children’s Day and schooling in the
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News Update November 2010
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life of an individual. She dealt with the different stages in a student’s life and how every moment is special
and meaningful. She also told the students how important they are and how we cherish their presence here
and how we learn so much from them. A Prayer by the Middle School coordinator and Hymn by the
teachers invoked God’s blessings for the day ahead and for the future of our students.
The cultural section of the assembly began with the message by the four candles for love, hope, peace and
faith. The big fat turnip- was a humorous skit by the K.G. teachers sending the message of unity. Unity in
Diversity was another item that really enthralled the students. The folk dances from Bengal, Punjab, Kerala,
Gujarat and Goa were indeed a treat for the students. The different stages in a student's life were brought out
beautifully in a fusion dance called “Kal, Aaj aur Kal”. The Qawals from Lucknow were another surprise
entry for the students wherein the teacher qawals sang praises of the school and the students.
The Headmistress of the school, Sister Martha, in her message to the students urged them to set goals and
visions for their lives and to learn from different moments that encompass it. She also wished the students
the very best for their future and hoped that they learn and mature into good humans and dutiful citizens of
the society. The last leg of the assembly saw a fashion show with a difference. In their attempt to hide their
identity, the sisters and teachers of the school dressed up in disguise with masks on their faces. It truly was a
hit as the students tried hard to recognise the faces behind the disguise.
The highlight of the show was the seed dance by all the sisters. The dance signified the struggle of a farmer
in nourishing the seed to a mature crop. Correspondingly, teachers foster a young child into a mature and
capable individual. The assembly was indeed like a kaleidoscope of colours and traditions.
But, the best was yet to come. The Bal Mela organized especially for the students was a mix of delicacies
and fun games. Initially the students were treated to ice cream by the school. The games included the
Rolling Seven, Tailing the Donkey, The Wheel of Fortune, Lucky Dip. Lighting the Candles and Racing
Cars. The food menu included Golguppa, papdi chaat, Dahi Bhalla, Chowmein, Moong dal laddoo, Bedmi
poori and aloo tikki, indeed some mouth watering and tangy delights. The star attraction was the D.J. in the
hall. The students grooved to some peppy numbers especially requested by them. It was a joyous occasion
for the students and staff. Truly, a children’s day with a difference.
[Submitted by Sr. Molly]
Rallying for the Rights of the Child
Students from Sr. Aloysius A.I. Hr. Secondary School, Chennai, planned a Children's Day Celebration with a
difference as they took to the streets to raise awareness of the rights of the child.
Keeping in mind the focus of the IPA, the women and children and the Child Rights Policy, St. Aloysius A.I.
Hr. Secondary School, Chennai, had planned to celebrate Children's Day in a different manner this year. The
School Child Rights Club in association with the management, staff, students and P.T.A members had
organised a Rally on the 10th of November 2010. In the fast track age that we are in, modernisation is at its
peak on one hand and quite contrarily there are scores of marginalised children around us being denied their
rights. To sensitize the locality, a Rally to voice the cause of Child Rights was organised in which 700
students took an active part.
The rally was led austerely by the band followed by the members of the Student Council, Child Rights Club,
and R.S.P., Guides and students from 6th to 12th. It was a proud moment as the students held high the
placards made by them to show that they cared to make that little difference needed for creating a
constructive world for children. We had few area counsellors amidst us with their chief, flagging off the
Rally.
They walked around the neighbourhood main roads and streets attracting the attention of the public. It was
really a red-lettered day for Aloysius and the public at large. Indeed it was a great awakening for all
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Aloysians.
Every child is special. Let's treat them alike.
[Submitted by Sr. Gracey]
The Nano Nagle Cup
What is the connection between Nano Nagle and the Cork Intermediate Camogie Championship?
Last year, as part of the celebrations for the 225th Anniversary of Nano’s death, we felt that an activity
involving young people should be included. With that in mind the Nano Nagle Cup was donated by the
South Presentation Community and by the County Board’s President Kay Dunne (also a past pupil of the
school) to the Cork Camogie Board.
The sisters wanted to mark the great tradition and the many links which South Pres has with Cork Camogie.
The school produced many great players: Anne Comerfort, Betty Sugrue and Hannah Dineen, all attended
the school and all went on to captain Cork to Senior All-Ireland titles. The South Pres Community had a
wish that the different clubs around the county involved in the Championship would get to know Nano Nagle
and draw inspiration from her life. In this way Nano’s name will be kept alive through another generation
and beyond.
The first holders of the Nano Nagle Cup in 2009 were Clonakilty Intermediate Camogie Club. This year
after an exciting match, Mallow were crowned Intermediate Camogie champions at Castleroad, Blackrock,
Cork. Sr. Patricia O’Shea presented the trophy to Mallow captain Kathleen O’Brien, she spoke about Nano
Nagle and gave each club member a copy of the life of Nano. Parents and club members were keenly
interested and I’m sure Nano was smiling down on the whole venture! So the Nano Nagle Cup has gone
home to the Nagle mountains for the coming year and I’m sure it’ll be taken on a visit to Ballygriffin.
[Written by Sr. Patricia O’Shea and submitted by Sr. Margaret Coleman.]
Passage from India
Sacred Heart Matriculation Higher Secondary School, India, and North Pres Cork are involved in a Cultural
Diversity project between teachers and students.
On September 25th two teachers from Sacred Heart Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Church Park,
Chennai, India arrived in Cork. Ms. Gita Das and Ms. Fatima Gerard were in Cork as part of the Global
Education Experience/Worldwise Project visiting their partner school North Presentation Secondary School,
in Farranree. In October of last year two teachers (Ellen Lyons and Ingrid O’Shea) from North Pres had
visited Chennai with Sr. Jo McCarthy and Sr. Mary Rossiter and as a result of this partnership the two
teachers from Church Park made the reciprocal visit this year.
The two schools are involved in a Cultural Diversity project between teachers and students and through the
links they have forged as Presentation Schools the project is growing and developing each year. Ellen and
Ingrid through careful planning ensured that both Gita and Fatima were made to feel very welcome for the
week they spent in Cork. A full and varied itinerary was prepared well in advance of the visit and Sr. Jennie
Clifford and Sr. Jo McCarthy also pitched in to facilitate a very successful experience for Gita and Fatima on
their first trip to Ireland.
For the duration of their stay Gita and Fatima stayed with Sr. Carmel in the very friendly and caring South
Pres convent in Douglas Street. They both felt very privileged to be accommodated in such an auspicious
building and Sr. Carmel very kindly showed them Nano Nagle’s tomb and her relics. They also spent an
environmental awareness day in the Nano Nagle Centre in Ballygriffin surrounded by the Transition Year
students from North Pres. Even though it was raining they enjoyed the day in Nano’s birthplace and they
could imagine her playing by the river Blackwater as a child.
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On their first day in North Pres Secondary School Gita and Fatima were guests of honour in our school
library for a whole school assembly. Our new Principal, Mr. Paul McDonnell, welcomed our guests on
behalf of the whole school community and we had a senior student, Louise O’Donnell, welcome them “as
Gaeilge” too! A Transition Year student Leah Anderson sang “The Banks of my own lovely Lee” for our
guests and a Second Year student Ciara O’Brien did Irish Dancing for them. Both Gita and Fatima
introduced themselves and spoke about their school. With the formalities over Gita and Fatima were taken
on a tour of the school and visited many of the specialist rooms. They also visited the primary school Scoil
Aireiri Chriost and Sr. Ena Lehane invited them to the Convent for lunch. In the afternoon Sr. Jennie and Sr.
Jo arrived in school for a meeting on the project for the coming year and to sign the partnership agreement.
The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Cork, Michael and Catherine O’Connell, welcomed our guests in
their chambers in City Hall. The Lord Mayor presented Gita and Fatima with a book on Cork and they both
signed the visitors book.
Another day was spent in Killarney National Park with the Transition Year students and their teachers Eithne
Horgan and Eileen Riordan. The students were there to do an ecology project and were delighted to meet the
Indian teachers and show them the delights of Muckross House and gardens.
Gita and Fatima also spent time with the Fifth Year history students outlining the British retreat from India
which is a case study on the Leaving Certificate History course. The students realised how privileged they
were to hear the history of India from Gita and Fatima and diligently wrote down all the information. The
Fifth Year geography teacher also invited our guests to speak to her class on the physical features of India
and the economic geography of this vast country.
It was with great sadness that we said goodbye to Gita and Fatima at the end of the week. We really enjoyed
hosting their visit to Cork and we look forward to working with them and their students during the coming
year. In October mid-term 2011 it is hoped that three teachers and four students will visit Chennai and
continue to develop the links between our schools.
[Written by Ellen and Ingrid and submitted by Sr. Margaret Coleman]
Update from Nano Nagle Centre Ballygriffin
Greetings to all our friends as we move from a summer and autumn of wonderful sunshine and bountiful
growth into a damp November. In this hemisphere our earth is preparing for the long sleep and the quiet
regeneration of Winter.
We have had a busy summer with many visitors from all over the globe - from Australia to Canada and from
Chile to Japan. All enjoyed the beautiful surroundings and the peace of the Blackwater Valley.
Jan Novotka Retreat
Almost thirty participants took part in a retreat in August 2010 led by Jan Novotka. Our minds and hearts
were opened to new and wonderful insights gleaned from deep reflection on the wonders of God’s glorious
universe. The whole experience was an invitation to move into a new level of consciousness and to join the
many thousands of our brothers and sisters already engaged in this search throughout the world. It was a
most exhilarating experience for all. We thank Jan for leading us in a deep and engaging journey together
and wish her many blessings on her life’s journey. Her recent beautiful song to honour Nano Nagle was
written during her time here at Nano Nagle Centre.
Celebrating Organic Week
The Open Evening which was held on 15th September to celebrate Organic Week was a great success with
over 400 people turning out. Renowned chef Darina Allen gave a talk on how to make the most of cheaper
cuts of meat. There was also a tree planning demonstration, tours of kitchen garden and tunnels, allotments,
orchard and hens, a sustainable energy presentation and the farmers market with an array of local artesanal
produce and potted plants, herbs and flowers. We hope everyone enjoyed the day as much as we did.
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Charism Weekend
Twenty-four friends of Nano Nagle Centre from all over Ireland came for a two-day reflect-in on how best
we can promote Nano’s message of wholeness and love in a new way in our fast-changing world. We
reflected on what her message means for each of us, on how we see present links between the Presentation
Sisters and lay followers of Nano and on how we would like to move to a new way of living and promoting
her heritage in today’s world. We hope to follow up with a further meeting.
School Retreats
School Retreats continue to form an important part of our ministry here at Nano Nagle Centre. We had the
students from Faranree in Cork, from John the Baptist School in Hospital and from Ballingarry in Tipperary
to spend a day here reflecting on right relationships between themselves and God, with themselves and
others and between themselves and creation.
Reflections with the Mystics
Sr. Anne Lyons led a group on a three-day journey with the mystics. This led to a deeper understanding of
the invitation their lives present to us to grow in awareness and to live a deeper level of consciousness.
Digital Photography
In the beautiful surroundings of the Centre a group of photography enthusiasts thoroughly enjoyed a fournight course under the direction of Morgan O’Neill. A further course will be organised so anyone interested
should contact the Centre.
GAP
The eighth group of enthusiastic participants are almost finished the GAP Programme for this term. This
highly popular programme provides the participants with good reasons and helpful hints for living more
sustainably in everyday life and simultaneously saving themselves some hard-earned cash. It will run again
in January.
Joga and Meditation
Yoga weekly classes continue under Ms Gwynn Comyn this term and are so popular that we have a waiting
list. Sr. Anne Lyons leads a group in approaching prayer and meditation t weekly sessions at the Centre.
Homeopathy for Animals and Bee-keeping for Beginners
Being an Organic Centre one of our priorities here is to run courses which promote an organic approach to
life in all its aspects. These were two of the more popular courses run here this term – all with a view to a
more holistic approach to healthy living and eating.
National School Visit
A group of Primary School students enjoyed a day of brilliant sunshine, fun and games at Nano Nagle Centre
in early October. They visited the animals, learned how to plant in the garden and how to recognise and
plant some native Irish trees.
Introduction to Organic Gardening
A 10-day course on Organic Gardening started with nine very interested gardeners in October. It will run
every two week up to December and then pick up again when the growing season starts in March. It covers
every aspect of organic gardening and is a great starting point for anyone wanting to start growing their own
food.
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Patchwork and Quilting Weekend
This took place on 15 – 16 October. It was run by Annemarie Horan from Galway and was a great success
with everyone going home with their own Christmas table runner.
Kitty on Corrigan
Richard Corrigan is on a mission. Last year he brought his city farm to Cork and encouraged everyone to eat
well and grow their own food. Now he’s determined to spread the good work around the rest of Ireland and
so he launched a new campaign to encourage everyone to Taste Local. He has set up his own Corrigan
Cooks Naturally Roadshow and he is bringing it all around the country. But this time, he has recruited a few
expert friends to give him a hand. On the campaign tour with him is medical herbalist Vivienne Campbell
who can show you how plants and flowers can make remedies and even natural beauty products. Also
joining Richard is our very own horticulturalist, Kitty Scully, who wants us all to reconnect with our food
heritage and celebrate the community gardens that are popping up all over the country. Kitty is our Farm
Manager and Organic Course developer. Their motto is “Taste Local” and they are celebrating what is local,
what is good and ultimately what is natural. The programme is broadcast every Wednesday on RTE1 at
8.30p.m.
Zimbabwe eNewsletter
This article brings good news about Kankwanda Basic School and Mutano House. Presentation Sisters were
The Zimbabwe eNewsletter for September 2010 is now available to download.
We have made the September 2010 edition of the PBVM Zimbabwe eNewsletter published by the Vice
Province available to download as a PDF in the Members Area of the Presentation Union Website.
To access the Newsletters section of the Website you will need your user name and password. Members can
log in by clicking on the Members Area Icon half-way down the Homepage.
A Cork Victory!
Congratulations to Presentation Secondary School, Ballyphehane, Cork who have just won the All-Ireland
National Choir Competition.
The Winning Choir
The choir from Presentation Secondary School, Ballyphehane, Cork, under conductor Ms Anne Dunphy,
won the prestigious All-Island School Choir Competition. The live final was held in Belfast’s Waterfront
Hall on Sunday, November 14th.
In the final, the Presentation choir impressed the judges with their
performance of two contrasting pieces, opening with the plaintive Cill Chais and livening things up with the
more upbeat Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy. The choir was complemented on the choice of music and the
manner in which the music was performed.
There’s always music in the air in Cork but the result of the long hours of hard work and commitment,
coupled with the innate talent of this group, was a joy to hear and see on our televisions at the weekend.
This win has brought great joy and a wonderful sense of pride to all of us and especially to the girls, to Ms.
Anne Dunphy, their musical director, to Sr. Sheila Kelleher, School Principal and to all of the school
community. The President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, presented the choir with their trophy.
Before the winners were announced, President Mary McAleese said the audience had enjoyed music of
poetic quality from the four finalists. Well done to all involved.
Choir Director, Anne Dunphy said: "We are absolutely delighted! The school will be so proud, as will the
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whole of Cork! Congratulations to all the girls who worked so hard to make tonight such a success".
Peter Sheridan, Chief Executive of Co-operation Ireland, organisers of the competition, said: "Cooperation Ireland recognises the importance of promoting tolerance, respect and friendship among young
people of different races, faiths and cultures across the island. What better way of doing that than through
music and song with the next generation?"
RTÉ's Northern Editor Tommie Gorman and the competition's executive producer said that it was "a
fantastic night for all the choirs who competed here in Belfast tonight and for all the choirs from North and
South of the country who entered the competition.
"It's a great night for music and we're delighted to have broadcast it over the last month and shown it live
tonight".
This is the 2nd annual All-Island School Choir Competition. The inaugural competition last year was won by
Methodist College, Belfast.
Presentation Secondary School, Ballyphehane, received a trophy and a cheque for £5,000.
The four finalists were chosen at regional finals in Cork, Castlebar, Navan and Armagh which were
broadcast on RTÉ over the last four weeks.
The competition, presented by Anne Cassin, was designed to encourage the tradition of school choirs in
second level institutions throughout the island. The adjudicators for this year's competition were: Seamus
Crimmins, Executive Director, RTÉ Performance Groups; Dr Angela Feeney, Belfast Opera singer and
teacher; Brendan O'Connor, Musical Director, Cois Cladaigh Chamber Choir, Galway and Dr Geoffrey
Spratt, Director, Cork School of Music and Conductor of the Fleischmann Choir.
The competition is organised by Co-operation Ireland, in association with RTÉ.
"We really admired the choice of music, and then we enjoyed the way they performed the music as well," Mr
O’Connor said.
Morning Ireland Feature
The school were also featured on Morning Ireland Radio 1 Show on 15th November. Check out the podcast
on RTE website.
A message from Sr. Sheila Kelleher, Principal
“At Presentation Secondary School, we continue to be inspired and challenged by our foundress, Nano
Nagle. The uniqueness of every student is recognised and we rejoice in the great privilege of being entrusted
with the education and overall development of so many young students.
Through the collaborative efforts of a committed and vibrant staff all talents are acknowledged, developed
and nurtured.
Our school is a happy and indeed special place where, among other things, the sound of music and song is
as constant and as certain as the drawings of the new day. Our choir director, one of our full time teachers,
Anne Dunphy, works incredibly hard to achieve and maintain an excellent standard of choral performance.
On behalf of the entire school community I pay tribute to Anne and congratulate her for her work and
achievements which continue to inspire us in our daunting but sacred task in educating tomorrow’s
generation here at Presentation Secondary School.”
Reflection at the Beginning of the School Year
Soracha O'Rourke, a Leaving Certificate student at Presentation Secondary School, Currylea, reflects on the
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Mass celebrated at the start of the academic year.
The team pep talk for a group of runners about to undertake a strenuous marathon just moments before the
big race. The unification of actors wishing each other luck before their debut performance. The start of year
Mass for a community, a family of young women before they embark of the journey that lay before them
through the jungle of education, the forest of learning, across the stream of sisterhood.
The welcomed arrival of those bright eyed , eager new faces being adopted into the Currylea Clan and the
beginning of a long ,drawn out farewell to the older siblings who are preparing to take flight from the
comfortable nest of Presentation Tuam. Harmony, solidarity, sorority.
The almost expected diligent, dignified and delicate aura of a shoal of students who wear the acorn emblem
with pride clung to every tall pillar and wooden bench on that Thursday afternoon in September. Though
among that sheet of sophistication buzzed a hum of excitement and a fizzle of energy , every lady alert with
anticipation for the formalities to begin, of course tweaked by a unique and original Curylea mannerism.
Then the brisk bubbling effervescence that sparkled and twinkled in every corner of the church ceased as the
first bars of music waltzed down the aisle. The silence of a kidnapping as every soul was captured in its
alluring net, trapped under its spell of enchantment.
The notes, harmonies, sharps and accidentals twirled from their place of residence a cold flute, a brown
violin, stretched themselves high and long before pirouetting down the benches, leaping over the plaits,
ponytails and buns, twisting into every open ear, all bound tightly together by the sweet, candied, sugared
voices of our educationally accomplished angels. A prayer in its rawest, most natural, most genuine form.
The readings were executed with determination to vocalise the message perfectly, unwilling to let the
meaning be lost in translation. The prayers reflected that of our very thought processes: our common hopes,
our mutual dreams, our shared condolences, our joint uncertainty of the future, our common plea for
guidance. Real, genuine, appropriate.
Before the school year train could trudge down along the academic rail of curriculums, revision and exams it
pulled into its usual annual stop, the induction depot, but this year the station had been renewed, renovated,
revived. It is common inevitable yearly tradition for the big sisters of this affiliation to warmly inaugurate its
junior members into the circle of kinship. Pass on the fire that is lit in every Pres girls chest, kept alight by
the solvent of school spirit that permeates through their being, saturates who they are. Give them the
wisdom that we have gained so they can plant it in their hearts and let it grow inside them. But why hand
them the usual flame of fire, a candle? Give them the flame of faith, an unquenchable blaze that will burn
tall and strong within, shielded from the wind, unaffected by moisture that will keep that girl warm when she
is cold with doubts, stress or worry. Something profound, enigmatic and elusive was given a concrete,
physical presence. The miraculous medal, it is worn around our beings like the embrace that our Mother
holds us in, cradles us to her, protects us, holds us tight. A little reminder to an occasionally lonely teenager
that she is never alone, we are all one, a network, interdependent, a family. there are so many kinds: the
family of mankind, the ecclesiastical linked family of faith, the family of a shared female species, but there is
a particular, unexplainable bond in a family especially reserved for 500 girls on the riverside banks of
Currylea; the family at Presentation College Tuam, a sisterhood of students.
[Written by Soracha O'Rourke and submitted by Neasa Cosgrove, Deputy Principal, Presentation College, Tuam]
Water is Life
On the 9th Of October 2010, Linda West Basic School, Livingstone, Zambia, celebrated the opening of a
Water Bore Hole. This project was funded by a Canadian couple who live in Livingstone and their friends in
Canada.
Sr. Judith of the local Presentation Community teaches grade 2 at the school and was invited to bless the
Bore Hole at the beginning of the ceremony. Judith also prepared her class of boys and girls to recite and act
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out a reflective poem on water which she had written for the occasion. This reflection was very much
appreciated by all present: parents, students, teachers, invited guests and sponsors.
Poem/Reflection
For my bathing, I need water
For my washing, I need water
For my thirst, I need water
For my food, I need water
Water is a necessity for all living beings, plants, animals, micro organisms,
But above all, human beings, you and I need water to live.
I can't survive without water
My body is made up mostly of water
The blood contains 74% water
Water helps patients with diarrhoea
Water helps reduce fever
Water prevents constipation.
Though I loose this water through sweating, crying and urination
An intake of 8 to 12 glasses per day fills me
Therefore the more you loose water from your body, the more you should put it back.
True! Water is life.
I can't live without water
Clean and safe water is what I need to learn better
Thank God for the many sources of water
Today we are getting clean water from underground
Yesterday we got water direct from the rivers and streams.
I need to use water wisely and safeguard it.
I need to preserve this water for the generation after me
This water was there, is now here and it will be there.
HOW CAN I PRESERVE THIS WATER?
By using the 4Rs
1. Reuse: I can reuse water in many ways - For example after washing plates in a basin, I can take
that water to a plant that is dying of heat.
2. Repair: Repair all leaking taps so as not to waste water.
3. Reduce: Use a bucket when watering the plants ; Use a cup when cleaning the teeth ; Use basin
when washing your hands after toilet.
4. Recycle reuse water wisely.
Lastly water is life; keep it clean even as it cleans you.
[Submitted by Sr Annmary]
Living Justly
No Place to call Home
Students at St. Joseph's College, Lucan, wanted to raise awareness of issues related to homelessness. They researched
the different reasons why people may have no place to call home and the effects this has for the individuals involved.
The project centred around different reasons why people may have no place to call home and the effects this has for the
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individuals involved. We looked at all the various reasons as to why a person may be out of a stable home
environment. We focused on areas such as actual homelessness, plight of refugees, people being forcibly removed from
their homes through human trafficking, debt bondage etc. and then the lives of children in orphanages.
The aim was to raise awareness about all of these areas and to encourage people to view the person rather than the
situation because through our research we found, particularly in the case of homeless people, there is a very negative
stigma attached to being homeless.
The students contacted Focus Ireland and studied a DVD and information pack from them and looked at the effect being
homeless can have on a person's self esteem. The students then tried to put themselves in the shoes of a homeless
person and wrote diary entries describing their feelings.
They studied the issue of refugees and explored the reasons why somebody might find themselves in this position and
again the effect this can have on the individual and the stigma, if any, attached to being a refugee.
In the middle of our project the huge tragedy in Haiti occurred so one group chose to look at the situation now, in
relation to housing, in Haiti as a result of the devastating earthquake. They decided to fundraise for Haiti by organising
a fast. They raised 674.09 euro and donated this to Trocaire as this agency is very involved in bringing aid to Haiti.
A guest speaker from the Simon Community visited the classroom and spoke of the organisation's work and the 13
different projects they have currently running. This was extremely informative as many of the girls did not realise the
work Simon does is so comprehensive. At this stage we realised just how many people we have homeless in Ireland
and how there can be so many contributing factors to a person becoming homeless.
After we had received all of this information we then wanted to share it with the school community and the wider local
community.
Release of Aung San Suu Kyi
After spending seven and a half years of the last ten years held under house arrest Aung San Suu Kyi was released to a
joyous reception in Rangoon, Burma, on 13th November.
November 13th 2010 was an historic day in the country of Burma (also known as Myanmar). This was the day that
Aung San Suu Kyi was released from house arrest after more than 15 of the last 21 years being held in detention.
On Sunday, she told thousands of wildly cheering supporters at the headquarters of her National League for Democracy
that she would continue to fight for human rights and the rule of law in the military-controlled nation.
In an interview Monday with the BBC, Suu Kyi said she sought "a nonviolent revolution" and offered some reassuring
words for the military.
"I don't want to see the military falling. I want to see the military rising to dignified heights of professionalism and true
patriotism," she said. The British-educated Suu Kyi also said she did not fear being detained again. "I'm not scared," she
said. "I know that there is always a possibility, of course. They've done it back in the past, they might do it again."
(Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report).
Further reports can be found on the UN website and on the The Telegraph website
Reflection
A True Story
A chance encounter walking along the paths in Matlock leads to a regular visitor and pray-er in our chapel.
This happened in Matlock one lovely afternoon in October 2008. I went for a walk after lunch and decided I
would follow a path I had not used for nearly 3 years. I set out from the Care Centre and had to cross
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Chesterfield Road to reach the public path on the other side. This would take me to the top of Rutland Street
which would be far enough for a start.
I was carrying my Rosary in my right hand and praying and I noticed as I crossed the road another person
coming down the hill from the direction of Wellington Street. I did notice the person was a woman and a
foreigner too. As I continued down the path I heard footsteps behind me and eventually the person came
alongside. She spoke to me and asked what time we had mass in the convent. I told her the weekday and
Sunday times and she said they would not be suitable for her. I asked where she lived. She did not say
exactly but explained she was a carer with a couple and also lived in with them. She had to rely on a relief to
give her time off and she looked at her watch as she was talking. Her mobile phone also rang at the same
time. She answered this in her own language.
Now this is the best part of the story. My friend, (we were now on first names) Felicity, told me she went to
Derby on Tuesday which was her only day off. She was free from 10 am and went to St Mary’s Church for
the 1pm mass which was her only opportunity in the week. Where is her native country? Another
coincidence was to learn she is from Zimbabwe. She came here last July and since she came she has seen the
name Nagle on the board at the school several times on her walks and wondered if there was any connection
with the same name seen at home. This was the first time she had met anyone to ask and was so delighted to
know that we in Matlock knew the sisters in Marondera, Zimbabwe where she lived. She came to England in
2001 and was now a trained NVQ carer working with an agency that had sent her to work here. She has
worked in many other parts of the country and her family are living in Portsmouth. She herself was taught by
the Sisters of the Precious Blood and later by the Dominican Sisters and her sons were in St Michael’s with
the Presentation Sisters and later finished at St George’s with the Jesuits. What brought us together? We
were both convinced it was the Rosary we were carrying and praying on our own until Our Lady brought us
together on that lovely sunny afternoon. We parted until Our Lady brought us together again.
About three months were to go before I met Felicity again. The day was January 6th, the feast of the
Epiphany which happened to be a Tuesday in 2009. I was very happy to see Felicity being shown to our
chapel that day, and to renew our acquaintance again. I showed her where to sit and she joined in the
celebration of our community mass and showed great gratitude and a reverent prayerful appreciation of our
celebration.
After mass I offered her the opportunity to share our meal but she declined, saying she wanted to stay in
Chapel to pray. I did offer her a cup of tea later and she accepted it, telling me how pleased she was to spend
some time near the crib. She had not been free over the Christmas days, so she was so grateful for coming to
us and for her attendance at the Mass for the feast.
I had a short conversation with her, hearing of her address and the set-up of her employment. She was hoping
to come regularly in future even on a Sunday. She received help which did enable her to come to our chapel
every Sunday and Tuesdays also. Not only does she come to Mass but also spends one to two hours each
afternoon praying in the Chapel. We have come to accept her daily presence and she finds her own way
along the fields and pathways from Asker Lane, even some days when it is raining.
As the year has progressed she has met two of our African nursing staff at other times and in other places. So
her journeys to Derby have ceased and we have a regular visitor and pray-er in our chapel almost every day
in the week. For a few days after Easter, Felicity visited her family in Portsmouth and enjoyed a break from
her dedicated full time care of the elderly couple she has now cared for, for nearly a year.
- Sr M. Gregory, July 2009, Matlock , England
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