Tributes to east Mayo parish secretary on her retirement

By Michael Byrne

A special gathering took place in Ballyhaunis when parish priest Fr. Stephen Farragher was joined by members of the pastoral council to pay tribute to long-time parish secretary Mary Donnelly on her retirement from the position after almost 30 years.

Mary took up duty in the parish office in 1993 when she was appointed by the late Fr. Joe Cooney, who had just taken up the position as pastor of Ballyhaunis. Over three decades Mary has given her all to this very important ministry in the parish.

In former times, when a priest's housekeeper was appointed, it meant nothing more than cooking, washing and cleaning, etc., but in recent years this ministry has taken on a new dimension with the technological developments which have come about in the past two decades in particular. To this end, Mary has shown herself to have come of age with modern technology, taking on courses and keeping up to date with the changing trends in the world of computer data, applying herself expertly in this role.

Indeed, as parish secretary, over recent years Mary has had to become something of a financial expert as well as a computer wizard to keep pace with the high demands that are now part and parcel of the role.

Speaking at the retirement function in the Dalgan, Fr. Farragher commented that on his appointment in 2011, at no stage did he have to consult his predecessor on any administrative matters relating to the parish as Mary was fully au fait with all matters.

He spoke about the many traits Mary possesses, like her flexibility, discretion, endless patience and her kindness to people. He also referred to the time in 2015 during the six-week period when he was absent due to back surgery, and how Mary administered the parish pretty much on her own in that period.

"The priest who took my place during that time spoke of how Mary made his stay here so enjoyable and stress free," he said.

On top of her secretarial work, Mary also undertook housekeeping and cooking duties, all done with the minimum of fuss and with endless patience.

Over 29 years Mary gave excellently and expertly to the ministry of parish secretary while also serving the parish community with the utmost efficiency and courtesy.

We wish her many years of health and happiness in her retirement.

Mary's role as parish secretary has been filled by well known former Midwest Radio news presenter Paula Donnellan, who is wished every success in her new position.