Killenummery & Killery Parish Bereavement Group Conference

The Killenummery & Killery Parish Bereavement Group Conference was a resounding success, with the hall filled to capacity and a warm Leitrim welcome extended to all the speakers.

The evening commenced with Fr Patsy McDermott and Noeleen Kelly, setting a compassionate tone for the event.

Leah Cull, a resilient speaker from Arigna, Co Roscommon, shared her inspiring journey of overcoming adversity and emphasized the importance of community support during challenging times. She highlighted the significance of kindness, seeking help, and praised the local voluntary group “Stop” for their invaluable contribution to the Northwest community.

Fr John Joe Duffy followed, recounting his experiences during the Creeslough tragedy in County Donegal and the pivotal role of community in times of grief. He shared his personal story of loss and the positive impact of counseling in his healing process.

Aisling O’Reilly then spoke about the transformative power of meditation and mindfulness in her life, having navigated through past struggles with sexual abuse and self-harm to a place of healing and teaching others about these practices.

The evening concluded with Michael Harding's poignant presentation on bereavement, emphasizing the importance of communication, community support, and self- compassion in navigating grief. Attendees left the event with a newfound sense of positivity and connection, reflecting on the shared experiences and insights gained throughout the conference.

Guest speakers and committee members pictured at the Killenummery and Killery Parish Bereavement Group Conference in Killenummery Hall on Thursday night last, March 7. Pictured from left - Hubert McHugh, organiser of the event; Noeleen Kelly, Bereavement Counsellor, Killenummery; Fr Patsy McDermott, PP Killenummery and Killery; Aisling O'Reilly, speaker; Michael Harding, speaker; Fr. John Joe Duffy, Creeslough, speaker and Leah Cull, North West STOP, speaker. Pictures: Willie Donnellan