Presentation of Papal honour to a dedicated Tipperary church organist
The Benemerenti Medal was presented to Mary Coen in Rossmore
A special celebration was held in Rossmore parish recently to honour Mary Coen for her many years of dedicated service as organist in her local church.
To mark the special occasion, Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly was accompanied by parish priest of Clonoulty Rossmore, Fr Tom Hearne and Fr Matthew McGrath to concelebrate Mass.
The Rossmore choir was joined by the Clonoulty choir for the special celebration, and the beautiful music and singing added greatly to the occasion. At the end of mass Mary received the Benemerenti Medal from the Archbishop.
The Benemerenti Medal is a papal honour awarded by the Pope to individuals who have provided long-standing and exceptional services to their local parishes and communities.
On the night, Mary was accompanied by her husband, Michael, their three sons, Séamus, Micheál and Pádraig, their granddaughters, Anna, Orla, Saoirse and Neasa and Mary's three sisters, Ann, Helen and Margaret, along with their many relatives and friends.
The joy of the occasion was accompanied by a sense of sadness, following the loss of Mary and Michael's beloved son Liam at the beginning of the year. Liam died on January 16th, following a long illness, which he fought with great bravery and courage to the very end
After mass, the community gathered in the local hall for tea and refreshments. Mary took the opportunity, at the hall to thank all who helped in any way to make the night a wonderful celebration. She also acknowledged the help she received from many during her long service as organist.
It was a lovely opportunity for everyone to come together, a very special occasion for Mary and her family, and a fitting tribute to the dedication and service she has given to the parish community throughout the years.