by Nadia Ramoutar MMM Communications Coordinator                    ireland                             05.11.2025

This Monday in Ireland, 3rd November, we woke up to the news that Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, better known as Sr Stan, passed away this morning, aged 86.

A wave of grief flooded over me when I heard the news initially as I have admired her for so long. In her activism, advocacy, writing and leadership she has inspired me greatly. I know that the time she spent on Earth is something to fully celebrate and also use a guidepost to direct us. Sr Stan showed us what is possible when humans see a problem and set about to correct it for others less fortunate. She didn’t just “help” people, she created systems so people could be empowered to help themselves. Which is really taking the higher road in what is referred to as “charity”.

She has been a role model for me in her clarity, faith and tireless persistence that the world could and should be better. In our humanitarian efforts, I often feel we get confused because we come to accept things that are “normal” rather than finding ways to make meaningful changes. When someone is unhoused and without a place to live, there is a whole system that has failed them. Needing a roof over their head is such a small part of a bigger issue. Sr Stan set about addressing these issues and the underlying causes personally and systematically for people to have a safe and stable home they can afford.

In a news statement, the Religious Sisters of Charity said she worked tirelessly to support the homeless, immigrants and those in disadvantaged communities throughout Ireland and beyond. It is amazing to see the difference that one persistent person can make in activating others to see things in a new way. Almost every problem people face is one of a complex system that does not work.

After finding Focus Ireland, Sr Stan then went on to establish the Immigrant Council of Ireland, Young Social Innovators, and The Sanctuary.

She stood up for those most marginalised in our society, and inspired others to do the same. Thousands of lives were made better, brighter, fairer and safer because of her work. The work of the organisations she established. And because of her courage and foresight, thousands will continue to be impacted through her legacy, for many years to come.

It’s one thing to be a good person but it’s another to bring out the best in other people too. Creating ways for people to have a good life and then be empowered to help other people is essential. There is too much darkness in the world for us not to light a small candle and bring light.

My heart is expanded by the life of Sr Stan and that is a tremendously rich gift to leave us in the world as she journeys on spiritual path. May she finally get the rest she certainly earned. Rest in Peace, Sister.