Two pioneering Offaly based nuns honoured for lifetime of service to youth services

Stephen Lawlor (Centre Manager), Sr Ann O’Neill, Sr Geneiveve Hassey, Denis Magner (chairperson) and Anna Gorbenko (artist).

placeholder image — Stephen Lawlor (Centre Manager), Sr Ann O’Neill, Sr Geneiveve Hassey, Denis Magner (chairperson) and Anna Gorbenko (artist).

St Mary’s Youth and Community Centre in Tullamore honours Sr Genevieve Hassey and Sr Ann O'Neill

TWO pioneering nuns who played a key role in the development of St Mary's Youth and Community Centre in Tullamore have been honoured,

Last week, the centre proudly presented Sr Genevieve Hassey and Sr Ann O'Neill with two beautiful mosaic artworks in recognition of their years of dedicated service to the youth clubs.

The pieces, stunning portraits of Sr Ann and Sr Genevieve, were handcrafted by Anna Gorbenko, a Ukrainian artist working at the centre through the Tús scheme.

The presentation, made on behalf of the youth club members, was a heartfelt tribute to Sr Genevieve and Sr Ann, who have given so much of their time and care to the young people of the community.

Both ladies retired from the centre's board of management in November 2023, but their legacy of support and inspiration will continue to be felt by all.

"We are deeply grateful for their contributions and wish them all the best in their future," commented Centre Manager, Stephen Lawlor.