A lookback on Clare nun Sr Benedict's incredible life as she celebrates 100th birthday

Sister Benedict, a native of Kilrush, Co Clare, marked a significant milestone on Sunday, February 16 - her 100th birthday! 

Sharing their appreciation for the one-of-a-kind lady, members of the Strabane Pastoral Area shared on social media an insight into Sr Benedict's hugely successful life to date. 

Sister Benedict was given the name Mary Valentine Culligan when baptised in her home county, and although she remained a lifelong supporter of all things Clare, she moved to Strabane, Co Derry, at eight years old. 

Mary (Valentine) had an aunt in the Strabane convent, Sr Mary de Pazzi, who she and her family loved and adored, with the young girl looking up to her as a role model. 

Upon completing all her educative studies, the Clare woman expressed the desire to enter religious life in Strabane, but was advised by the community to take time out and think about her future.

After much consideration, Mary returned to her beloved Strabane on December 7, 1945, and entered the convent. After the required 3-year novitiate, she then made First Profession of Vows as a Sister of Mercy in September of 1948.

It was then that she was given the name of Sr Mary Benedict.

READ MORE: New funding scheme launched to support Healthy Clare initiatives

A few short years later, Sr Benedict discovered a fierce passion of hers, teaching. Graduating from Sedgely Park College in Manchester, and she went on to teach in the Convent Prep school. 

Speaking on the incredible woman, a member of Strabane Pastoral Area stated in the social media post, "Teaching was her vocation, and Sr Benedict specialised in infant education. Despite the large classes of the time, she was a warm, friendly and encouraging presence in the lives of her charges. She loved them all, especially those in any kind of difficulty or need.

"She offered her pupils a wonderful experience of the liberal arts, music, art and craft, nature appreciation - as well as the required academic subjects, and her pupils loved her. When the school day ended for the infant classes, Sr Benedict took the older classes for art and crafts," they concluded. 

Upon retirement, the beloved nun did not slow down as she continues to serve local parishes in anyway she can, including, cleaning, flower arranging and taking care of the altar linen for many years. She would also assist with the children’s choruses in local pantomimes, was involved in the Ladies’ Guild and continued to visit the sick and elderly of the local parishes.

Sr Benedict's many talents do not end there, as she herself is a very accomplished painter, having produced many fine works.

Continuing to sing her graces the social media post went on to say, "As a community member, Sr Benedict was kind, gentle and generous - always willing to help in any way she could. She served as community bursar, sacristan, flower arranger, and excelled in the finest embroidery and handcrafts. Blessed with a beautiful singing voice, she added greatly to the community liturgy and festivities, in addition to her artistic and décor skills."

Now celebrating being 100-years-old, Sr Benedict still shows the same kind of disposition she has always possessed. 

Happy birthday, Sr Benedict!