We frequently take them for granted but the service they provide is second to none.

For the past five years the Elphin diocese has provided a day of retreat for parish and diocesan secretaries and administrators.

Currently all such post holders are women and each year as many as can participate take time together to rest, enjoy each others’ company and have some spiritual input.

Since 2004 their gathering has taken place in the Sisters of Mercy Galilee Community, Boyle, Co. Roscommon where nourishment for body and soul have been provided by Srs Mae McManus, Olive Flanagan and Catherine McInerney.

The theme of this year’s retreat was recognising the holiness of office work / administration and fosterng openness to the power of the Holy Spirit in Sacred Scripture.

The day also incorporated a short remembrance service for deceased family members and friends of the participating secretaries and for parish and diocesan secretaries who have died

Sitting (Left to right): Maura Meade (St. Mary’s Sligo), Maura Scanlon (Elphin Diocesan Office). Standing: Marian McGowan (St. Anne’s, Sligo), Ann Allen (Pastoral Dev. Office, Strokestown) and Srs. Mae McManus and Olive Flanagan at this year’s Elphin Diocesan Retreat for Parish Secretaries in Galilee, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.