‘Stories of Hope’ at Our Lady of Lourdes, Steelstown

Baroness Nuala O’Loan, the well-known Irish Catholic columnist, Police Ombudsman and IRA bombing survivor leads up a wealth of people who will recall their personal journeys of hope at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Steelstown beginning Monday, March 7.

Speaking ahead of this week’s first talk, member of the Parish Pastoral Committee of Steelstown says that so many are looking forward to each evening. She said everyone is very welcome and encourages all to spread the word among families, friends and work colleagues.

Hope, Faith and Love help in situations of need. Hopefully each evening will give each person who attends a sense of hope and inspiration. The music will be uplifting and refreshments will be served after each event.

Activities will include talks and music with former Principal of St. Mary’s College, Marie Lindsay will start proceedings on Tuesday, 7th March. A Donegal native, well known in teaching circles in the city, Marie will recall her journey over this past few years.

Tuesday, March 14 will see Geraldine Mullan, who tragically lost her husband and two children in an accident in 2020 recall her story and tell how faith, love and hope enabled her to keep going one day at a time.

Archdeacon Robert Miller will give a talk on Tuesday, 21st March. The Church of Ireland clergyman is active in conflict resolution in both church and community contexts.

Children in Crossfire founder and well-known Derry man Richard Moore will host events on Tuesday, March 28. Richard tragically lost his sight when hit by a rubber bullet when he was at secondary school in the Creggan back in the 1970s. He explains how he lives an inspiring and fruitful life.

The finale on Friday, March 31 will see Baroness O’Loan, a high-profile figure in Ireland, both north and south, explain how she survived an IRA bombing but lost her unborn child.

Each night will also have live music by local musicians such as Eibhlin and Rory O’Donnell, Erin Carlin and Lauren and Beth Doherty, as well as tea/coffee served.

Each event will have a 7pm start and all are welcome to attend.