On Friday evening, in the hall of the Limerick Catholic Literary Institute, the esteemed Rev. P. McDermott, C.S.S.P., delivered the inaugural address to the institute’s members and their guests. The event garnered a significant turnout, with the Mayor presiding over the proceedings. Father McDermott’s lecture, titled “West African Life and Ways,” captivated the audience as he provided a fascinating and vivid description of the spiritual and temporal work undertaken by the missionaries and dedicated nuns in the vast territories of the African continent.

To enhance his presentation, Father McDermott utilized lantern views featuring photographs, which greatly aided in conveying the realities of missionary life and labour in Africa. Additionally, a young boy named “Charley,” who worked with pigs, was introduced and performed a couple of songs, infusing the melodies with the unmistakable pathos unique to Negro minstrelsy.

At the conclusion of the address, a vote of thanks was extended to Father McDermott, proposed by Father O’Connor, C.C., and seconded by Mr P. Hanlon. The chairman of the event also received acknowledgement and appreciation. These expressions of gratitude marked the conclusion of the evening’s proceedings, which had been filled with enlightenment and appreciation for the remarkable work carried out by missionaries in Africa.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 25 October 1904