Beloved Sr Clare legacy lives on: The story of Sr Clare through the eyes of her younger sister

From the heart of Derry City to much further afield, Sr Clare's legacy continues to resonate profoundly within the community, touching lives and souls long after her passing. 

Shauna Gill, the younger sister of Sister Clare, affectionately recalls the spirited essence of her beloved sibling, offering poignant insights into the remarkable woman whose influence transcends time.

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Growing up in Derry City, Shauna paints a vivid picture of their childhood, reminiscing about the bond shared among three sisters. ‘Clare was the boss in the house, Shauna chuckles, ‘whatever she said, we did.’ From childhood escapades to holiday adventures in Butlin’s, Sr Clare's vivacious spirit and natural flair for drama left an indelible mark on those around her.

Before her passing, Sr Clare was deeply ingrained in the fabric of the Derry City community, actively participating in youth clubs, and embracing her passion for drama. However, as Shauna reflects, it was after her passing that the full extent of Sr Clare's impact became evident, permeating the hearts and minds of all who knew her and all those who through her story of vocation and sacrifice came to know her.

Maireann oidhreacht deirfiúr ionúin go deo: Scéal Súir Clár Trí Shúile a Deirfiúr Níos Óige

‘A híomhá i ngach áit agus daoine ag taisteal uaireanta chun cuairt a thabhairt ar a uaigh, mura deabhóid é sin, níl a fhios agam cad é!' - Shauna Giolla

Shauna's recollections of Sr Clare's distinctive qualities evoke a sense of both nostalgia and admiration. ‘Her bossiness, her dramatics,’ Shauna muses, ‘everything was over the top. Yet, beneath the dramatic exterior lay a kind and beloved soul, whose presence commanded attention and affection wherever she went.’

The Annual Retreats in April stand as a testament to Sr Clare's enduring legacy, drawing individuals from far and wide to share their stories of inspiration and faith. ‘People want to talk about their story,’ Shauna affirms, ‘someone from our wee town making such an impact.’

The monthly Mass in Termonbacca serves as a beacon of hope and prayer, as the community gathers to petition for Sr Clare's canonisation. Shauna describes the mass as a powerful expression of faith, uniting believers in a common cause.

The Tuesday night prayer group, held in the Bishop St Community Centre, epitomises Sr Clare's enduring presence within the community. Through prayer and reflection, in particular the Rosary, participants find solace and strength, asking for the intercession of Sr Clare.

Sr Clare's passing left an indelible void within the community, yet her memory lives on through the countless tributes and expressions of devotion. The outpouring of support from people around the world was a testament to her far-reaching influence. Father Mongan and Father Stephen, deeply touched by Sr Clare's legacy, played pivotal roles in honouring her memory. 

Derry's strong devotions through the ages has always been demonstrated by candles and prayercards

Now, her image adorns the windows of homes across the city, as frequent as the Sacred Heart. Her candles flicker, novena prayer cards are cherished mementos and murals adorn walls in the Brandywell and the Racecourse road. Shauna recalls: ‘We were driving around for weeks and weeks and the same wall kept coming back to us, no better place as we lived close by, and the mural can be seen from her grave in the City cemetery’.

Even in death, Sr Clare's presence is palpable, her memory cherished by young and old alike. ‘My wee girl always says Mickey Doherty is not even in the windows, but our Clare is!’ Shauna mentions, her children proudly proclaim Sr Clare as ‘Our Clare,’ a cherished aunt who, despite 4 of the sisters’ children never meeting lives on in their hearts. 

As the community gathered for a Mass on what would have been Sr Clare's 40th birthday at the Long Tower Chapel, the overflowing pews bore witness to the profound impact of her life. It's a testament to Sr Clare's enduring legacy and the depth of love and reverence she continues to inspire.

Shauna reflects on the profound teachings imparted by Sr Clare, emphasising the importance of faith and simplicity in life. ‘She showed you don’t have to have everything in life, she had nothing, and she was happy,’ Shauna recalls, ‘she brought us back to faith, I couldn’t imagine myself running a retreat, rosary group, attending Mass and heading to Knock’ In a sense the big sister still bosses the younger sisters about in a way!

As Derry City continues to be touched by Sr Clare's enduring spirit, her legacy serves as a beacon of hope and renewal for all who encounter her story. From a humble working-class Derry beginning she desired global recognition as a famous actress to a humble servant of God whose recognition is global all the more upon her passing, Sr Clare's journey reminds us of the transformative power of faith and love.

From the retreat last year.

In the words of Shauna Gill, ‘A renewal of Faith in the City, her image everywhere and people travelling hours to pay her grave a visit, if that’s not a devotion, I don’t know what is!’ 

Indeed, Sr Clare's legacy lives on, an eternal testament to the boundless impact of one woman's unwavering faith.

As the retreat approaches in April, the community eagerly anticipates a week filled with meaning and reflection, honouring the remarkable life and legacy of Sr Clare. Through testimonies, memories and prayers, her spirit lives on, forever cherished in the hearts of the people of Derry and all that come to hear her incredible devotion be it through her film or book.

If you would like to contact Míċeál-Piaras please email: moceallaigh01@stmarys-belfast.ac.uk.