Pictures: Kilkenny care home celebrates 40 year anniversary

Mount Carmel Supported Care Home celebrated a remarkable milestone last weekend, marking its 40th anniversary with the launch of a new book, I’ll Never be Lonely Again, written by Frank McKenna.

The book traces the origins and history of Mount Carmel which, for four decades, has provided sheltered accommodation for people from Callan, Kilmanagh, Cuffesgrange, Mullinahone and beyond, those no longer wishing or able to live entirely independently but not yet requiring full nursing care.

From its inception, Mount Carmel has welcomed countless residents and staff, each contributing to its enduring spirit and many families remain deeply grateful for the compassionate care their loved ones received within its walls.

This significant occasion paid heartfelt tribute to the visionaries who conceived the project in 1978, steering it from bold idea to cherished reality: Bishop Peter Birch, Canon John Kennedy, Paddy Clancy, Seamus Horgan, Martin O’Halloran, Maisie Condon, Father Liam Cassin, and numerous others who invested their time and expertise.

The legacy of Mount Carmel, and other similar homes, is woven into the fabric of Ossory Social Services, pioneered by the late Bishop Birch.

The Sisters of Mercy, who shaped the ethos and daily running of the home, most notably Sister Loretto Crowley, Sister May Lynch and Sister Bernadette.

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Saturday’s celebrations began with the planting of a commemorative tree at Mount Carmel, donated by Callan Co-op, and the unveiling of a plaque from Molloy’s Sculptures, paying homage to the Sisters of Mercy and their steadfast service from 1978 to 2014.

Matt Doran, acting as MC, invited Father Liam Cassin to officially launch the book and reflect on the formidable efforts which brought the home into being, especially in an era when Callan was undertaking several major fundraising endeavours.

Sister Loretto gave a moving account of her experiences managing Mount Carmel from its very beginnings, sharing stories of the first residents and the community that grew around them.

Frank McKenna then recounted his journey researching the book, which began as an article but quickly expanded as he unearthed stories and interviews with those instrumental in the home’s history.

The loss of wonderful servants in recent times of Mary Egan and Maisie Condon before the book’s launch was keenly felt and respectfully acknowledged.

The event also marked the 30th anniversary of the Mount Carmel Bungalows, with a touching anecdote from one of the first bungalow residents who, after 27 years, moved to the main house and exclaimed: “I’ll never be lonely again.”

These words resonated deeply with Frank McKenna and inspired the title of the book.

The celebration concluded with refreshments, music courtesy of Kilmanagh musicians, and a touch of dancing, complemented by the support of local businesses such as Keoghs Bakery and SuperValu.

The book is now available in local outlets, offering the community an enduring record of Mount Carmel’s place in local history.

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