Limerick, Friday. The need for a dedicated residence for the nuns belonging to the Order of the Little Company of Mary, who diligently serve at St. John’s Hospital, has long been acknowledged by the supporters of this invaluable institution. Today, in the presence of numerous well-wishers, the foundation stone for the new building was laid by the Most Reverend Dr O’Dwyer, the Bishop of Limerick. Despite the inclement weather, a large gathering of clergy and laity attended the ceremony, which commenced at noon.

A platform was specially constructed for the esteemed visitors, while the Bishop, adorned in canonicals and accompanied by Father Griffin, the Administrator of St. John’s, and the acolytes, officiated the ceremony using a silver trowel. The trowel, adorned with a suitable inscription, was graciously presented to Dr O’Dwyer by the contractor, Mr Gough. The foundation stone, bearing a Latin inscription, will be prominently displayed at the front of the convent, visible from the Square.

Dignitaries in attendance included the Mayor, adorned with his chain of office and accompanied by the mace-bearer and the High Constable, Mr Forest, carrying the sword of state. Also present were Mr James Flynn, the City High Sheriff, alongside the Mayoress, Mrs. James Flynn. Notable figures from the clergy and community were Reverend John Griffin, Administrator of St. John’s; Archibald Murzay; John Gumane, J.P.; Very Reverend Andrew Murphy, President of St. Munchim’s College; Reverend J. O’Shea, C.C.; Alderman Joyce, MP..; Alderman O’Mara; James H. Roche, J.P.; Reverend D. Shanahan, P.P., Ballysimon; Dr Shanahan; J. Wallace; Mrs. Power; Mrs. Spllave; Mr P. and Mrs. O’Malley; Leiby, S.C.; William Lloyd, S.C.; Mr J. De Ovurcy, solicitor; Mr McCann, Manager of the National Bank; D. Hanpan; A. Killeen, Assistant Town Clerk; N.A. Brophy; J. Beban, S.C.; C. Ryan, S.C.; Nni Léta Deiagey; E.J. Long, S.C.; S. Hastings, solicitor; Dr Malone; P. Hartigan; and many others.

Dublin Evening Telegraph – Saturday 17 September 1904