Sr Agnes Horgan of the Poor Clares Nun’s Island, died on August 21, having undergone heart surgery on the August 13.
Sr Agnes was a very well known and loved member of the Poor Clare community, and her death has come as a shock to the community as she was only 66 years old.
She had been responsible for hospitality in the monastery for many years. Everyone who met her remembered her and received a warm welcome, this was reflected in the number of visitors she had while in hospital.
The main celebrant at her funeral was the Franciscan Provincial, Fr Caoimhin O’Laoide and homily was given by Fr Mícheál McCraith OFM. The Bishop, who was unable to attend was represented by Fr David Murphy and Fr Diarmuid Hogan. The funeral was also attended by Mayor Padraig Connelly.
An extract from the homily reads, “If our life means anything, if what we are goes beyond the monastery walls and does some good, it is somehow , by being, here at peace, we help world cope with what it cannot understand.”- The Sixth Lamentation.
“It was through her life at peace here at Nun’s Island for nearly 50 years, a prayerful life of humble service, that Agnes reached so many people beyond the monastery’s walls, helping them cope with their difficulties often beyond their comprehension. But there was, a candle of hope burning in the midst of their darkness, an example for all of us to follow.”
Sr Agnes was a warm and practical woman who had the gift of making everyone feel at home and important to her.
She will be greatly missed by her sisters in the community, to whom she was both a friend and a model of what a Poor Clare should be. She will also be missed by her family, sisters, Sr Louise, a Good Shepherd sister in Thailand, and Mary Lehane and brother Tommy along with extended family and many friends.
Her community and family are deeply grateful for all the care and attention she received from doctors, nurses and medical staff, especially during her final illness.
