Sister Elizabeth Mullan (Mary Bernard)
Elizabeth, was born in Limavady, Northern Ireland, to Bridget and Bernard Mullan, the fifth born in a family of twelve; nine girls and three boys. Her parents worked tirelessly on their farm to provide for their large family. Elizabeth recalls, “With living out in the countryside I have very many happy memories of farm life.” Her early years, marked by the dynamics of sibling relationships; navigating the ups and downs of growing up, sharing experiences and interactions, all helping to develop important social skills and forming a foundation for lifelong connections. Strong Christian principles and values; faith, prayer, hard work and encouragement passed down by her parents, had a lasting effect and shaped aspects of Elizabeth’s life. She was a friendly young woman who enjoyed life in all its aspects. Throughout her life family was important for Elizabeth. At an early age she went to board at the RNDM Convent in Limavady where she experienced a regular way of life.
At the age of eighteen Elizabeth made the decision to enter the Novitiate in Hastings. Leaving her homeland was not easy for her as it meant leaving parents, family and the country she loved. “We were sad and lonely leaving Ireland.” She travelled with two companions by train to Belfast, then crossed the Irish Sea by boat to the UK. From there they continued their journey by train to Hastings. Elizabeth refers to the journey in her notes: “Our arrival in Hastings was a miracle from Euphrasie that the ‘three lovely lassies’ from Ireland made it safely!” She was intrigued by the exacting timetable and at the same time the experience of a deeply fulfilling communal life of such a large group of sisters. Elizabeth writes: “I remember counting all the heads when I went to the first Mass in the big chapel, there were so many and all of them serious.” While the transition was challenging, she soon grew accustomed to the disciplined lifestyle and gradually found a deep sense of purpose in the call from God to join a missionary Congregation.
Over the years Elizabeth took on various roles within the community at Beech Court, Sturry, Hastings, Wealdstone, Chew Magna and Deal, helping with the sacristy, laundry, caring for boarders and assisting with sewing skills. She was hard working, reliable, adaptable and willing to learn. With determination in 1966, she officially mastered driving and was overjoyed with her success. This increased her confidence in her ability to conquer what she thought was not possible. In 1972, she attended the College in Hastings to acquire knowledge and competence in the areas of commercial typing and secretarial skills. Her ability to efficiently manage technological techniques surpassed her expectations. These successes led to the role as chauffeur for the Provincial and visitors
for twenty-two years. At the same time, she worked as assistant Province Secretary. Elizabeth’s ability to handle multiple tasks, her dedication, hard work, organisation and management skills were greatly valued. Her physical endurance and efficiency were outstanding as she happily and generously drove up and down the country making sure the Provincial and others were supported and their needs provided for. This mission of support to members of the Congregation which she loved, brought her fulfilment and was appreciated.
Elizabeth had an opportunity to follow a renewal session at Hawkstone Hall before taking up her mission in Dundalk, Ireland. She valued the quiet time, input and rest, in preparation for this recently opened mission. At the small community in Dundalk, she enjoyed a quieter lifestyle, finding peace and contentment in gardening, supporting the Parish community and offering companionship to the elderly and those in need. She was well known and respected in the area and often people called to the house knowing they would connect with a caring person with a compassionate, kind heart and listening ear.
Fragility caught up with Elizabeth and she eventually moved to the community in Dublin where she spent some happy years. However, in 2021, Elizabeth moved to Sturry when her health required more personal and full-time care. Again, this transition at the age of 98, was difficult for her, as she struggled with the loss of independence and various health issues. Despite these challenges she faced her new reality with the same strength and grace that had characterised her earlier years. She was a true RNDM missionary to the end and grateful to have been gifted with a clear mind. She expressed gratitude for the care she received from the staff at St Anne’s and the sisters who prayed with her while they visited. What an experience and gift to have lived through the many changes in society, in the Congregation and in the Church for over a century!
In her final days of illness she displayed moments that showed her strong personality and at times her sense of humour. Towards the end, still quite alert, she was heard to say numerous times, plainly and firmly, “Saviour come, I’m here, Saviour come, I’m here.” She was ready to go to meet God after a long and faithful journey of life. Elizabeth passed away peacefully on January 30th, 2025, at the age of 102, with her nephew Brendan and the sisters by her bedside. She is remembered as a woman of deep faith, resilience and compassion, whose long life touched the hearts of many, leaving a legacy of kindness and faithful RNDM missionary service. Thank you, Elizabeth. Rest in peace with God.
The Mass of thanksgiving, at St Anne’s, Sturry on 18th February 2025, was celebrated by Father Leo Creelman, nephew of Elizabeth and Father Patrick McKeown CP, friend of the family. Present also were members of the family, nieces and nephews with partners, Staff, Sisters of St Anne’s, Euphrasie Barbier and New Southgate communities. Due to unforeseen circumstances the Provincial and the sisters from Wealdstone were unable to attend.
Elizabeth was laid to rest in Sturry cemetery.
“A strong woman knows she has strength enough for the journey,
but a woman of strength knows it is on the journey she will become strong.” (M.R. Ballard)