In October 1903, the Sisters of Charity of St. Paul, headquartered at Selly Park near Birmingham, extended their reach to Ireland, establishing their inaugural convent in Kilfinane, County Limerick. Under the patronage of the revered Bishop of the diocese, Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer, the Sisters wasted no time in initiating a school, which, from its humble beginnings with forty pupils, has now swelled to nearly four hundred. Inspectors commend the institution for achieving remarkable results.

The dedicated efforts of the Community in the quaint locale of Kilfinane are expected to yield significant long-term benefits. Reverend Mother Ignatius, displaying both prudence and zeal, has recently introduced a lace school—a welcomed initiative in an area where many young women lack meaningful occupation. It’s noteworthy that these Sisters operate without any independent funds. While the inspectors have lauded their work, a substantial sum of money is imperative for the success of their endeavours to uplift the underprivileged girls in the region. Those willing to contribute stand to make a charitable impact and, perhaps, catalyse the establishment of a prosperous lace industry, promising economic prospects for the future.

The convent has already made strides in education by imparting culinary skills to local girls. Cooking classes, well-attended by girls from miles around, have resulted in numerous students securing employment, a testament to the effective training provided by Reverend Mother Ignatius and her dedicated team.

Catholic Times and Catholic Opinion – Friday 31 May 1907