‘Deeds not words’: Presentation School celebrates its 200 years

The Presentation Sisters built more than just a physical school when they came to Mullingar 200 years ago, they built a thriving community rooted in faith, learning and hard work.

Natasha Miskell, principal of Presentation Convent Junior School, made that point in her address to those gathered in the school hall on Friday morning to mark the two centuries since those nuns arrived in Mullingar by canal boat.

A day of commemoration began with a ‘Homage to our School’ in the form of spoken word and musical performances by the pupils of Presentation Junior School and its sister institution, Presentation Senior School.

In a series of well rehearsed, well executed performances, the children told the history of the Presentation Sisters, beginning with the life and times of Nano Nagle, founder of the Presentation Order – the woman remembered as ‘the Lady with the Lamp’ – and continuing to the present day. The young performers were guided by staff members, Miriam Walsh on piano, Muire Early as soloist and Una Sullivan on the harp.

Ms Miskell said: “Today, as we look back with gratitude and forward with hope, we celebrate not just the buildings or the years, but the people, the relationships, and the spirit of the Presentation tradition that makes our school special.

“To everyone who has been part of this story, past and present, I thank you. Your dedication, your faith, and your belief in the power of connection have shaped generations and helped people to light their own lanterns in the world.

“Today, we proudly carry forward that mission, not simply as a memory of our past, but as a living promise for our future. As we begin the journey into the next 200 years, we do so with hope and energy. We continue to walk in the footsteps of those gone before us, reminding us that while times may change, the spirit of love and connection will fill our schools – but our sense of purpose remains the same.”

During her address, Ms Miskell also acknowledged the contribution of former principals present, Sr Angela, Valerie Moore and Bernie Beddows, “the Three Musketeers!”.

Concluding, she extended heartfelt thanks to colleagues on the staff at both Presentation Schools for the effort they had put in to preparing for the day, and she raised a laugh when she quipped that the previous six days had been spent “practising and power washing”.

“As we look to the future, we remember Hanora Nagle, who said, ‘Deeds not words’.”

Anne Nugent, chair of the board of management at Presentation Junior, also delivered a short address, in which she thanked Bishop Paul Connell who was present, the staff at both schools, fellow board members, and, referring to the ongoing building work, Patrick Gilsenan, architect, and Michael Ennis, contractor, and their teams.

Ahead of refreshments at the school, and before the community Mass at the Cathedral of Christ the King, a copy of a poem the children had recited (composed by the school team) was presented to Sr Sharon Fagan, Congregational Leader.

Ms Miskell welcomed everyone to the Mass, which Bishop Tom Deenihan celebrated. Claire Dorr, principal of Presentation Senior, did a reflection, and pupils from her school sang in the choir. Pupils from both schools read the prayers and responsorial psalm, and at the end of the Mass, Sr Sharon addressed the congregation.

By the time staff and guests had returned to the school hall, it had been transformed into an elegant dining room by a team from David Smyth Catering, who then served a delicious meal.