by Nadia Ramoutar MMM Communications Coordinator Ireland 28. 06. 2025
Recently, I have had the pleasure of working with the MMM Sisters to record a new song praising the gifts given by founder Mother Mary Martin. It’s a beautiful song written by MMM Sr Jacinta. She is very talented in writing and also in singing. It was great fun to gather an audience and film the choir performing. When I was directing this music video something occurred to me about the power of music, not just for those performing it but also for those listening to it. So I decided to do a little research on this. What I find confirmed to me that music is not just pleasant, it is important to our wellbeing.
The relationship between music and the brain is fascinating and we really don’t know enough about it yet. But it is clear that music helps the brain to organise and operate at higher function. If we think of it this way, music serves like exercise for our brain.
Music also offers us significant value in reducing our stress levels and expressing emotion in a healthy way. It also serves to alter our emotional state in positive ways.
My oldest son, Devin, is studying to get his Masters degree in Music Therapy. Because of this I have learned a lot about how music can help with not just recovery but also during surgeries. Music can reduce stress considerably and several experiments and medical trials show the positive impact. Unfortunately, music therapy is not used nearly as much as it can to benefit people. More research is just coming out now.
The Harvard Health news reported that a study done in New York on cataract patients showed impressive results. The listeners also reported that they felt calmer and better during the operation. Earlier research, though, found that surgeons showed fewer signs of stress and demonstrated improved performance while listening to self-selected music. So it benefitted both the patient and the surgeon.
Music can add so much to our daily life but what will also really bring us benefits is dancing to the music. It has been shown that of all exercise methods, dancing benefits the brain greatly and not just the body. You can see that adding a little bit of music to your daily life routine could bring many significant health and psychological benefits.
Life can be stressful and listening to bad news all the time can have a negative impact on us at several levels. Making space and time in our life to include music and movement is a wonderful investment in our wellbeing. It is worth the effort and consistency over time will bring us major benefits.
MMM Publications 1954 Ireland 25.06.2025
A story from early MMM life in Anua, Nigeria
The week before the “big day”, (the consecration of Bishop Ekandem, first Nigerian bishop in West Africa) reminded me of the crossroads incident that happened in Ireland during the War. Irish American soldiers were coming down from Derry to visit their friends and relatives in the twenty-six counties. They all described themselves as “army technicians”.
This proved too much for one country youth wo enquired,
“ What is a technician, anyway?”
“Can you hold a paintbrush?” enquired the visitor. “Yes.” “Can you do this?”, making imaginary strokes with a paint brush.
“Yes, of course.”
“Then, I guess you are a technician.”
Well, for one week at least all of us in the mission at Anua have been technicians. Pliny says that the cobbler should not go beyond his last. But we went further than that, we only stopped short at the matchet. Such flying of brooms and paint brushes, needles and suds. The woodmen and the wahermen, the carpenters and tailors – all were on overtime to have all-in ship-shape order for the great occasion. That is all but the head tailor. He was one of the untouchables, much too busy preparing Bishops “cloth” to be bothered with Sisters’ palaver. Important guests were invoiced for days in advance, and everything was scheduled to a nicety with no margin left for mistakes or loss of time.
Consequently, we had never tested the newly turned canvas seat on our best outdoor chair, and so, with a rending zipp, it gave way under the first important caller.
by Sr. Jane Frances Ihekuna MMM Nigeria 21.06.2025
On that fateful day, I embarked on a journey which I knew nothing about, no address, no companion, so confused of what to do, worried about how the journey would be. All I knew was that I must arrive somewhere, but I had no clue about the place. All I knew was that I had a destination. With hope, I will get to my destination, with openness, accept the destination in good faith.
While on this journey, I encountered some ups and downs of life. There were times I fell and times I was tired, weak and discouraged to continue. Going backwards was war, going forward was scary. There was a book I took along with me. One fateful afternoon, I just opened the book to know its content, I found myself reading the book with confidence. At once I realized I was filled with energy, happiness and zeal to continue with my journey. I set off to continue and I held that book so tight, close and in reverence because I never knew its worth until after that encounter.
At every stage of this journey, I met different people; some were false friends who tried to discourage me, trying to convince me to remain with them. Some claimed to be my companions. Most fell off to where they belonged, some tried to pull me down due to selfish interest, envy and jealousy. I never realized this until I got to the junction of self-evaluation which took me through the road of introspection, that brought me to self-awareness, revelations, growth and change of perception.
Arriving at a particular place, I told myself that I needed to take a break, enjoy the environment, adopt some of its living and values. And also, to lay a foundation there, so that at any time, I can freely spend some time there.
After that moment, I felt so convinced that at least I am becoming aware of the knowledge of my destination; though not too clearly. I realized that this particular environment is preparing me ahead for my future journey. At this point, I am still enjoying the environment, bringing it into my day-to-day encounter with the creatures around me.
So far, so good, it is a wonderful journey with enriching experiences.
Do enjoy every one of your moments but be prudent in all that you do.
The Word of the Lord (the Holy Bible) is my companion together with the Holy Spirit. You can never walk alone when you value the Word and work in accordance with God’s commandments.
Enjoy the ever presence of God in your life journey
by Sr. Margaret Anne Meyer MMM USA 18.06.2025
“Be sure to be at the airport by 10:30 AM. “These words were said to me by a Holy Ghost Father, whom I had visited the day before. He had been in the Biafran War in Nigeria and was now helping refugees in Ethiopia. I was transporting some letters for his brother, Fr Doheny, who was also a Holy Ghost Father, in Arusha, Tanzania. Because the US Congress had stopped the coffee trade with Uganda, I was asked to leave. The border between Kenya and Tanzania was closed and I had to fly from Addis Ababa to Mount Kilimanjaro. It was a very upsetting time for me. I felt sad to leave my beloved Uganda and the people to whom I had become close. Yet I knew from the Bishop’s concern for me, and my community’s supporting the decision of the US Government for me to leave, was the one to follow, no matter what the cost.
At 10:45 AM, the Comboni Sister with whom I was staying was kissing all her Sisters goodbye before getting into the car. At last, we were on our way, but the Sister driver decided it would be nice to see the sights of Addis before getting onto the plane. Finally, an hour later we arrived at the airport. Sister’s luggage and mine together were 100 lbs. I was about 2 pounds over the limit. All her tapes were confiscated, and she had to pay for the extra weight. Sister was going to establish a novitiate for a congregation in Tanzania and had many books. By this time, the plane was revved up and ready to take off. At the last minute, the Holy Ghost Father showed up in his Volkswagen, flashing all his official badges, and drove us out onto the runway. The gangplank was about to be removed. I had told Sister his instructions but as the previous plane was five hours late, she did not think it was necessary to be on time for this one. The sweat was pouring down my back. How could anyone think like that?
by Sr. Rita Kelly, MMM Ireland 14.06.2025
It is a dark cloudy Sunday afternoon, and I am debating whether to go for a walk or not. I put an coat on and decided to go out as far as the garden and “get some fresh air.” With the rain, heat and sunshine the garden was in full bloom and as Wordsworth quoted in The Daffodils it was “a bliss of solitude” and a sense of gratitude. But somehow the images of the terrible scenes in Gaza intruded into my thoughts. The bombings and the starvations and the overwhelming sense that no one in the International World appears to be responding to the crisis.
I had money in my pocket, and I decided to go down to Our Lady of Lourdes Church to light candles for the Palestinian people. There is a statue of the Pieta; with Our Lady holding her dead son in her arms. I was standing in front of the statue contemplating and praying for all mothers who was suffering for their children, when I sensed a presence behind me. I was a wary to turn around as I was in the Church on my own. There was a man standing behind me. My first thought that he was looking for money! But he apologised for disturbing me and asked had I known a MMM Sister called Mollie McDonagh? Immediately I responded “Mollie Meehan”. His face totally lit up and he said to a woman who was coming towards us….” She knew Mollie.” He was the nephew of Mollie who was known as Sr. Joannes Meehan in religious life. Sr. Joannes was a widow, from Belfast and entered the same time as me in 1967.
Harry and his wife were visiting Drogheda from Belfast. The last time he was in Drogheda was at his aunt’s funeral in 1979. He was a child. But also remembers visiting her with his family. He wished to visit the grave but did not know where it was. MMM are buried in the local graveyard of Sr. Peters. I accompanied them to the graveyard, and they were so delighted to find Sr. Joannes grave. Photographs were taken and prayers were said.
On our way to the graveyard, we shared memories of Sr. Joannes or Mollie as she was remembered in the family. Sr. Joannes was a widow when she entered in 1967. I also entered that year. We were temporary professed in 1970. Both of us were assigned to Turkana, North Kenya. Sr. Joannes as a Montessori teacher and I as a Nurse. With Sr. Joannes there was never a dull moment and always laughter.
As Harry and his wife wished to visit other historical sites, we bid each other farewell.
Reflecting afterward on the day there was a sense of being in the right place at the right time without any planning. Harry and I had started out on a quest to try and find an aunt’s grave. Because she was a religious, they thought she would be buried in a private graveyard. Medical Missionaries of Mary are buried in the local St. Peter’s Church. Harry was very young when he last visited Drogheda. They saw me going into Our Lady of Lourdes church and wondered could I help them. We had an enjoyable time, sharing memories of a beloved aunt and colleague.
In a recent letter, Archbishop Eamon Martin has called for each parish to be in solidarity with the people of Gaza, to lobby our politicians and especially to pray.
We continue to pray for peace for all areas of conflict, especially for the war in Gaza.
by Sr. Harriet Mutonyi, MMM Uganda 11.06.2025
When I was young, I vividly remember my grandmother sitting by the fireplace, lovingly sharing stories and riddles with her grandchildren most evenings. One such evening, she narrated a poignant tale: “Once upon a time, the wind passed through a banana plantation carrying a melodious tune. One banana stem had both dry and green leaves. As the wind played its music, the dry banana leaves danced with joy. However, the green banana leaves grew angry and scorned the dry ones, calling them ‘old ugly fools’ and demanding that they stop making noise. The dry leaves replied, ‘We were once young and vibrant like you. Treat us with love and respect.’ Despite this plea, the green leaves treated the dry ones harshly, eventually ensuring their fall from the stem.”
The banana plantation
After finishing the story, my grandmother urged us never to treat anyone poorly, especially the elderly. Her words resonate with me to this day: “The elderly you see today, including myself, have worked tirelessly in their youth. They were once young like you and deserve respect, love, and care.”
Regrettably, many of us behave like the green banana leaves, neglecting the elderly as if they no longer exist. Even those with affluent children often suffer as if they had none. We forget that without them, we would not be where we are today. They are the giants whose shoulders we stand upon. I recall a heartbreaking story of an elderly woman who fell ill and was abandoned at home in my village. She endured immense suffering without care. Yet, when she passed away, her children appeared, purchasing an expensive coffin and organizing a grand funeral. This left the community questioning where they had been during her time of need.
One aspect of my vocation in the Medical Missionaries of Mary (MMM) that brings me immense joy is caring for humanity as a whole. I firmly believe that MMM has heard this silent cry of the elderly and responded with compassion. Although our foundress, Mother Mary Martin, began the Congregation with a focus on mothers and children, her mission extended to all in need. This foundation has made it natural and fulfilling for me to serve in this ministry.
by Nadia Ramoutar MMM Communications Coordinator Ireland 07.06.2025
In what has become an iconic book now, theologian Matthew Fox in “Creativity: Where the Divine and the Human Meet” writes, “Creativity when all is said and done, may be the best thing our species has going for it.”
As a professional communicator, I have read this book a few times and a former me underlined this sentence a long time ago. I want to underline this for you now too because I think in a digital age where we are bombarded with Artificial Intelligence (AI), humans have some ethical issues to consider.
Rather than asking whether AI is right or wrong, good or bad, I have another question I want to ask: “Have we exhausted our own Human Intelligence?” I feel unusually confident in answering this with a resounding, “Eh, no. I don’t think so.”
In Ephesians 2:10 it states, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Yet, I think when we look at the world, we often see that humans are walking in the shadow of violence, disease, political strife and mental health issues. To a point perhaps where these plights in the world are almost presented as normal, typical or just the way the world is.
What would it take for humans to question this and to ask what “good works” can I do? How can I use my own Human Intelligence to make a difference in the world, or even within my own daily life.
To save you some time, I did some research and here are some ideas that surprised me.
For one thing, most creative people are not one way but are in some ways a contradiction. (That’s a relief to some of us!) They are social but need solitude and quiet. They are good listeners but can communicate. They are capable of being practical but using their imagination. They are realists who are also hopeful.
Another part of embracing our own Human Intelligence is making sure we design our lives in such a way that there is space for our creative side to be cultivated. We are not robots.
· We need some reflection time in prayer or meditation. Allowing moments of self-awareness to emerge.
· We need some unscheduled time to let our minds wander and active the daydreaming part of our brain that leads to innovation.
· We seek creativity in a book, or a film or art or even in other people. Engage with people and places that inspire you to be more.
· Watch out for distractions. People who bring drama or exhaust us need to be minimized and we need to have some free time but not waste our energy.
We are complex but really competent beings. We humans can be brilliant. Let’s focus on what we can do together and see how far Human Intelligence sprinkled with compassion can take us.
Nature is beyond décor, it is alive. It whispers through mysterious sounds with objects apparently falling and nocturnal, unseen movements.by Sr. Mary O’Malley Kenya/Ireland 31.05.2025
Editor’s Note: This is one of the stories Sr. Mary told us during her recent visit to Ireland. Sr. Mary works in Nairobi, Kenya in the prevention of human trafficking and care for the victims of trafficking.
Daniel came into our office about two weeks ago also. This young man is a ‘high thigh’ amputee. He has struggled with major injury for more two years ago now. He had come off a local transport (matatu) and was shortly hit by a high-speed motorcycle. It tossed him into the ditch, and he landed in a drain – rather dank due to the presence of open sewage and the driver sped off. He lay there for some hours in and out of consciousness. Finally, a good Samaritan took him to the national referral hospital where he lay there most of the night unattended. In this condition it was understandable that he required an amputation.
Afterwards he went back to his rural family upcountry, but there was nothing in that remote area to assist him. Finally, he returned to a friend in the Nairobi slums but it was not easy. He felt a burden to his childhood friend who lived in a subsistence way also. Struggling on his crutches, someone told him that he should try going around to churches as he might stumble on some form of a charity. Well, it turned out that he arrived at the office where Mutuku and I were engaged in a planning meeting for the ten Victim/Survivors who came to our office the previous evening (at 4.30pm). “ It never rains but it pours!”
Happily, life has changed for him, and he believes that his prospects are good. In consultation with him we set him up with a food trolley business. He sells cooked sausages and hard-boiled eggs which are kept hot with a small charcoal grill at the bottom. We got him a chair and umbrella as he will need to sit and have shade from the burning sun. We have put him on the list of Association of Physically Disabled of Kenya (APDK) to be measured and supplied with a prosthesis. He has found a niche close to the CBD where he can leave his trolley secured with a strong padlock. We are very confident that he will do well and there is no reason why he cannot have a family of his own in the future.
by Nadia Ramoutar MMM Communications Coordinator Ireland 28.05.2025
It is funny how sometimes we do something and have no idea the outcome our actions will have in future. I know that we don’t do something or take action sometimes because we are concerned about the unknown and feel fear. We sometimes don’t take action because we avoid venturing into the ambiguity of something new.
I am here to propose that we take on another perspective and realise that new actions can result in unexpected joy.
A few years ago, we were looking at ideas for our MMM Communication Department to raise money for the missions and to build more community. While going through old MMM Magazines, Sr Sheila and I read about the events that the Sisters used to host for these reasons. We were inspired to host a Christmas Craft Fair in Drogheda. There were a few people who thought it was a dreadful idea but they had the decency to tell us afterwards!
So, we had our Christmas Craft Fair and it was a big success. The hall was buzzing with activity, and it felt festive and fun. We invited the local children’s choir. They came and we loved having them here on the big stage in the auditorium. We also got to meet a lot of local crafters, artists and small business people who had stalls at the event.
Now, this year we got really brave (there are other words for it) and we added a Festival in May focused on Flowers, Food and Fun. Many of our Christmas vendors came and our lovely children’s choir. Speaking with the man in charge of the choir, Ken, he told me how much coming to the convent over the years has meant to the children in the choir. It is wonderful to have them here and witness them getting taller and more confident too.
This time, when the choirs’ sound equipment was being set up, I noticed something I had not realised before. The young man in charge of the sound is blind. He was busy getting things organised and ready, using a white stick. Honestly, I had been so preoccupied before, I had not noticed this. I stopped in my tracks and marvelled at his expertise with all the electronic equipment that made the children sound so great.
His blindness didn’t stop him from this important role. He was so agile and focused too that I had not realised he was blind. I really admire his talent and skill. It made me think how important it is not to be blind to our own bias or limited thinking. We think that we are trying to help other people – when in fact, they are helping us grow and see the world in a new, bigger way.
I reflect on the wonderful way in which God works and I am reminded of Proverbs 3:5.
“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”
