Home We Are Laois Moment in Time Moment in time: Rathdowney Mothers’ Union 50th anniversary in 2000

Moment in time: Rathdowney Mothers’ Union 50th anniversary in 2000

Members of the Rathdowney Mothers Union with Diocesan President Joan Dier at their Anniversary Celebrations.

Our Moment in Time looks back at a special occasion when Rathdowney Mothers’ Union celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Photographer Alf Harvey was on hand to capture the moment in May, 2000.

The 50th anniversary of the branch founding was celebrated in a service held at St Andrew’s Church.

In attendance were representatives from the local Mothers’ Union Branch, parishioners and friends, along with representatives of the Mothers’ Union in Abbeyleix, Mountrath, Ballyfin, Kilkenny, Templemore, Johnstown/Kilcooley and Kells.

In his address, the Bishop of Cashel & Ossory, the Right Reverend John R. W. Neill spoke of the importance of the Mothers’ Union in the lives of so many parishes throughout the country.

He stressed its role in the general running and support of parishes and the preservation of marriage and family life.

He also spoke of his experience of the Mothers’ Union as seen in his recent visit to Central Africa.

The local members provided a meal in the Parochial Hall after the service which was attended by 120 members and guests.

Long serving members, Muriel Patterson, Lucy Mounan, Gertie Sothern and Yvonne Thompson at the Rathdowney Mothers Union 50th Anniversary Celebrations. Photos: Alf Harvey
At the Rathdowney Mothers Union 50th Anniversary Celebrations. From left: Valerie Stanley, treasurer; Gillian Alley, secretary; Bishop John Neill, Cashel and Ossory; Shirley Stanley, Enrolling Member; Archdeacon John Murray; Joan Dier, Diocesan President and Irene Murray former president.
Members of the Rathdowney Mothers Union with Diocesan President Joan Dier at their Anniversary Celebrations.
Cutting the cake at the Rathdowney Mothers Union 50th Anniversary Celebrations, Yvonne Thompson and Lucy Moynan two of the longest members. Included is Irene Murray, former president of the Cashel and Ossory Mothers Union.

SEE ALSO – Moment in Time: Ballyroan Foroige hosts its first fun day in 2003