Diocesan News
Shining a light on gender–based violence
In November in St Cronan’s Church, Roscrea, led by Rev Jane Galbraith, Limerick and Killaloe Mothers’ Union stood in solidarity with women across the world in support of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence Campaign. The prayer vigil is an awareness raising initiative which highlights and calls for an end to violence against women locally, nationally and internationally. It was a sign of the importance of the topic to see so many members attend as it was an exceptionally cold day. It was also wonderful to welcome Bishop Kenneth Kearon and Mrs Jennifer Kearon to the prayer vigil.
The speaker was Ms. Miriam Duffey from Rape Crisis Mid West, a free and confidential service for survivors for rape, sexual violence and abuse operating in Limerick, Nenagh and Ennis.
Miriam spoke about the many aspects of the work that they do, including crisis counselling, long–term counselling, court accompaniment, Initial Support with the Gardai and Group Support. Miriam spoke very movingly about her work: “When someone is shocked and grieving over what has happened to them the anger, loss and pain can be overwhelming. A hand to hold and someone to talk to that won’t judge but just listen is vitally important.”
In the Limerick & Killaloe Diocese the MU focus this year is with Adapt House, Limerick and Esker House, Athlone, women and children’s refuges. Mothers’ Union prepares care packages for families who are about to leave the refuge to set up on their own. These include toiletries, food, pyjamas, and toys, and members have been exceptionally generous in their giving once again. Also on the day of the vigil the MU members displayed knitted items to go to Limerick Regional Maternity Hospital for premature or stillborn babies and also some knitted teddies to support the ambulance and fire service in dealing with children experiencing a trauma. Miriam Duffey and Jessie Griffin, MU Fundraising & Communications Co –ordinator, are shown (below) with examples of these ‘Trauma Teddies’.
Especial thanks were due to Rev Jane Galbraith, MU Diocesan Chaplain, Florence Reid and Heather Evans who put so much work into preparing the vigil and all those who arranged a very welcome cup of tea and supper following the vigil.
Communications Officer, Tuam, Limerick & Killaloe
089 448 9353
Stephen Fletcher
[email protected]