Waterford woman honoured with Benemerenti medal
Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan presented Mary Power with the Papal award the Benemerenti Medal at a Mass of Thanksgiving, at the sacred Heart Church, Dunhill in recognition of Mary's 48 years service to the church. Photo: Joe Evans
There were scenes of great celebration in the Dunhill area of County Waterford recently when local woman, Mary Power, was honoured for her commitment and dedication to the church.
Mary, who is in her 80s, has been sacristan in her local Sacred Heart Church, for the last 48 years and on July 12, she was presented with the Benemerenti medal by Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan at a mass in the church.
The mass was attended by members of Mary’s family including her sons, Kevin and John, a former Waterford hurling goalie, and her daughter, Anne. Some of Mary’s grandchildren were also in attendance including her grandson, Darragh, who gave a short speech about her after the presentation of the medal was made. Her family accompanied Mary up to the alter for the presentation ceremony.
Following the mass, everyone in attendance went to the local community hall for some light refreshments organised by the hall committee.
One of Mary’s lifelong friends, Eileen, made the trip home from the UK especially for the event.
The two women have been friends since their school days and Mary was delighted to see Eileen there. Mary is one of the most respected and well-known members of her community and that was reflected in the number of people who wished her well and congratulated her on receiving the medal.
Someone who always has a smile on her face and a pleasant word for everybody, she looks after the church for all events taking place.
Mary is also a member of the church choir and was delighted to see them at the ceremony. Priests from throughout Mary’s time in the church were also in attendance.
A lover of music Mary enjoyed a trad music session in the hall to finish off what was a very special day for her and her family.
Mary was presented with a special plaque, on behalf of the parish, by John Queally and she was also presented with a painting, also on behalf of the parish, by Mary Harney.
The reception in the local hall was very well attended with locals happy to pay tribute to Mary.
