CWR Ireland was established in 2016 initiative of Patricia Lenihan, RSC, and co-founder Sr. Thomasina Finn, RSM. Sr. Thomasina, who managed communications duties for the Conference of Religious of Ireland (CORI), generously shared her expertise and resources to support the group.

Already a member of CWR and having attended some of its meetings in the United States, Sr. Patricia recognized the need for the voice of women religious to be heard at home in Ireland.

CWR Ireland seeks to provide a counter-narrative by:

• Being proactive in engaging in digital spaces promoting the good news of the gospel.

• Telling our stories through social media and our websites.

• Highlighting and making explicit charism and ethos that define our mission.

• Using a contemporary language that resonates with today’s audience.

Beginnings

CWR Ireland’s first meeting took place in January 2016 at the Generalate of the Religious Sisters of Charity. Congregational leadership teams were invited to send communications personnel, and 14 participants attended. Over the next two years, a series of meetings followed, culminating in a conference that included a session for leadership teams.

On the evening of October 23, 2018, CWR Ireland hosted a gathering of women religious leaders at the Clayton Hotel, Ballsbridge. During this event, the purpose and aspirations of the new group were outlined.

We were especially grateful to have Nick Schafer from the CWR international office in Chicago join us. Nick provided insights into CWR’s mission and ethos. The story of CWR Ireland unfolded through the voices of those who had been involved from the beginning, sharing experiences of collaboration, hospitality, and welcome. Participants left meetings feeling energized and empowered.

By the end of 2018, CWR Ireland was formally recognized as a region of CWR. The group continues to work toward developing a strategic communications framework for religious in Ireland.