Daughters of Charity visit Áras an Uachtaráin
On July 6 last seven Daughters of Charity attended a summer Garden Party at Aras an Uachtaráin.
It was a wonderful occasion to join about 500 people to celebrate the contribution of so many people to their local communities. The invitation was extended to the Sisters of the local community in Knock. Sisters Anne Killeen, Maureen Coen and Carmel Ryan were joined by Sisters Goretti Butler, Helen Byrne, Kate Lehane and Caitroina MacSweeney.
Each person was personally welcomed by Mrs Sabina Higgins as we entered the residence. It was a great occasion to come together and take in the beauty of the gardens and formal rooms of the Áras. The riot of colour in the walled garden was a joy to behold and the variety of fruit grown in the glass house, would lead one to believe that we were in the Mediterranean rather than Ireland.
As 6 July was a glorious summer’s day it allowed us to enjoy the beauty of our surroundings. We enjoyed wandering in the gardens and later sitting and enjoying the music from the Band of the Irish Prison Service as well as other musicians.
At 3.30pm we gathered in the large marquee to savour the variety and beautifully served refreshments. We were addressed by An Uachtaráin Higgins and the theme of this address was the importance of community. He praised all who give of their time freely to building up community in their local area. The Master of Ceremonies for the afternoon was Maura Derrane who introduced each of the entertainment acts. The group who impressed me the most were the group of young musicians from Laois. Music Generation Laois are one of twelve groups in Ireland who are in receipt of grants from the U2 foundation to promote music education in Ireland.
We extend our thanks to Uachtaráin Higgins and Mrs Sabina Higgins for the invitation to the Garden Party. It was the seventh of sight Garden Parties this summer and we were privileged to attend and enjoy a wonderful summer’s afternoon.
Please click here to view more photos from the day.
