On arrival this powerhouse of woman was there to greet us, full of enthusiasm, a smile to brighten any day and as always, a heart full of love for people and a strong affection and care for others, making us so welcome. As a crowd of approximately 100 gathered -dignitaries, fund raisers, anyone who had supported sister – were seated and the proceedings began.

The Mayoress Linda Scanlon opened the celebration event, next came the newly appointed Mayor Ehthesham Haque who thanked Sister for her tireless work in supporting local people.

Mayor Ehthesham Alderman Peter Wood Lynda Scanlon Mayoress Sister Mary Scholastica Alderman Mark Greenfield Former Tyne and Wear Lord Lieutenant Mrs Susan Whitfield

Next came the author, Kevin Lilley, who told us how the idea came about for a book and, how in 2022 “You raise me up” was no longer merely a vision. Sister Mary thoroughly enjoyed Kevin’s homage, laughing at his comments until… it was almost her turn. But let’s pause, and take a short look at the ways in which this remarkable woman has helped her beloved community, which is in fact, her adoptive home.

Sister Mary was born in Ireland, and it was at the tender age of 17 that she came to Sunderland to join the Convent of the Sisters of Mercy in order to live a life of service. And indeed, that is exactly what her life became as she worked amongst Sunderland’s wonderful and often needy community. Her work involved, amongst many other causes, the homeless, support for young people, respite care, and of course, the seafarers. Heavens, was there anything she wasn’t involved in? Well, no, the list goes on and on.

Mayor Ehthesham Sister Mary Scholastica

Ever modest, Sister Mary, beloved by so many, spent her launch celebrating and highlighting, not her life, but the efforts and generosity of so many people who helped and supported her over the years. Sister also took the opportunity to tell the mayor that more people need to be honoured, as ordinary folks are overlooked and do not get the recognition they deserve for the charitable work they do. (She never misses an opportunity to get her point across).

‘The list could have been much longer,’ she finally remarked, with her beautiful smile. Amongst those listening to Sister, were some of her family members, and for us, her friends, it was a humbling experience to be part of this auspicious occasion.

Columbia Community Association (Marion and Bob Taylor) along with Margaret Graham of Frost Magazine, felt privileged to be presented with a copy of the book which Margaret will be reviewing shortly. What a day, spent with fabulous people, lovely buffet and an amazing celebration of the one and only Sister Mary Scholastica “Angel of Mercy”. Raise me up will be published soon, at a cost of £20 and all proceedings will go the Seafarers Mission.