Book Launch in Kilteevan Community Centre
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Kilteevan Community Centre was packed to capacity on Friday November 8th for the launch of A Sense of Place: Reflections on the Boglands of Kilteevan by Sr. Kathleen Glennon.
The audience was welcomed to The Gathering Event by Eileen Fahey Chairperson Kilteevan Community Development Group. Ms Fahey said that “throughout 2013, this small nation has rediscovered much of what is strong and meaningful in local communities. Given
The book was officially launched by Dr Ann Louise Gilligan and Senator Katherine Zappone. Dr Giligan, whose grandfather Martin Gately came from Kileenboy, spoke of the warmth of the Kilteevan welcome she had received. She said she had personal experience of the healing qualities of Kathleen’s work during her recent illness. She claimed that Kathleen’s book, A Sense of Place, because of its connection to the earth, had the potential to fill the void being experienced in the lives of many people in
Senator Zapppone praised Sr Kathleen’s work for its earthiness and admired the fact that people could connect with the poetry collection. She read Tea in the Bog and The Mass Rock. Other reflections were also read by Anne Helmstetter, and Sr Mary Glennon.
Kathleen spoke about the depth of her connection with Kilteevan. The book, she explained, is about the beauty of the local landscape, its flora, fauna, history, heritage and personalities. She thanked everyone who had supported her in producing her book .Kathleen read two of her reflections I am of Kilteevan and Bridie Neilan Wall.
The special guest of honour for the evening was centenarian John Mooney, a native of Doogarymore. Sr Kathleen interviewed John in relation to his memories of road building in Kilteevan in 1927, the Black and Tans and his discovery of the Doogarymore Chariot Wheel.
Background music was provided by Sr Mairin Ní Mhuircú who played the harp.Sr Una Purcell, Sr Nora Keenan, Sr Martina Sheridan, Sr Mary Doherty and Sr Helen Divenney gave a magnificent rendition of the chant Holy Ground.
The occasion was brought to close by Michael Banahan whose interpretation of The Groves of Kilteevan left the audience spell bound.
A Sense of Place is on sale in Paddy Finns Kilteevan, Gleesons Roscommon, and Eight Til Late Roscommon
