Sr Catherine O’Sullivan shares some of her experiences

It was my privilege for five years to have been part of the Cornerstone inter-denominational community on the Springfield Road, West Belfast. This was not only a great stimulus to my personal growth but provided a rich insight into the nature of ‘identity’, ‘conflict’ and ‘community’.

Since 1982, Cornerstone has been a prayer-centered, creative and prophetic community, a healing presence and a sign of hope in a polarised world. Its spirit of teamwork and continuous evaluation has been reflected in its community development and reconciliation projects over the years.

It continues to be a welcome venue for organisations and groups engaged in inter-community dialogue, and for people all over the world interested in peace and reconciliation.

Having then spent three years in Boliva promoting basic Christian communities, I am currently in Cuil Aodha (Coolea), near Ballyvourney, with a view to immersing myself in the Irish language and culture. Since my arrival in May, I have spent interesting hours listening to people tell their stories and participating in local cultural, religious and social events.

I have been very impressed by the number of poets, historians, authors, singers, musicians and artists that this small Gaeltacht area has produced. They are the proud guardians of a rich cultural heritage. The picturesque farms carved out between gigantic rocks, hills and heather show the skill and diligence of the farming community over the generations. The river Sullane, silent and peaceful, rises in Coolea at the confluence of three streams, and flows through the townland on its way to meet the Lee. It is my privilege to have the opportunity to contemplate its moods, its wisdom, its accommodating nature and harmony, traits with which the people who live in its environs are blessed.

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