So They Will Never Be Forgotten

Dear Friends

Annette and I recently returned from a deeply meaningful visit to County Kildare, made possible through the help of our friend and colleague Liam O’Sullivan.

Our journey began at Glendalough Monastic Site before meeting the family of Patrick McCormack, who had the 1959 plaque erected. I was interested in hearing what inspired him. His daughter Ann said “So they will never be forgotten." Wow, that was our heart too. We had a great evening sharing our story with Ann, her brother Ollie and his wife Imelda.

Monday morning we met with Fr Liam Merrigan and Bishop Denis Nulty.

Later that day, we met Sean Ó Fearghaíl TD (MP) who was moved by the story of the Poor Whites as he didn’t know they still existed and is going to look into helping them in some way.

Mario Corrigan from Naas Library was impressed and straight away organised this event in Heritage week.

Shirley Bowers is booked into the Chamber in Naas Library and Cultural Centre on Tuesday 18th of August 2026 6pm to 8pm.

We missed Rev Philip McKinley from Kildare Cathedral but he contacted me on my return and we are hoping to have another event here in the same week.

Our visit concluded with Cllr Noel Connolly. Everyone we met was astonished by the history shared and encouraged by the work that has been done over the years.

Praise God

We appreciate all your prayers.

Shirley