Ellen Mary Patrick Downing facts for kids

Ellen Mary Patrick Downing (born March 19, 1828 – died January 27, 1869) was an important Irish poet and nun. She was also known by her pen names, Mary of the Nation and E. M. P. D.. Ellen was one of the most famous poets who wrote about Irish pride and identity during her time.

About Ellen Mary Patrick Downing

Her Early Life and Writing

Ellen Mary Patrick Downing was born in Cork, Ireland, in 1828. Her father was a doctor at the Cork Fever Hospital. From a young age, Ellen loved to write. She started sending her poems to a newspaper called The Nation. Over time, more than 40 of her poems were published there. She became one of the top poets who wrote about Irish nationalism. This meant her poems often expressed a strong love for Ireland and its people.

She also wrote for another newspaper, the United Irishman. However, this newspaper was eventually stopped by a law called the Treason Felony Act 1848. Ellen was part of the Cork Historical Society. Here, she met Joseph Brenan, who was a member of a group called the Young Irelanders. This group wanted more rights and freedom for Ireland.

Her Religious Life

After some personal difficulties, Ellen decided to join a convent. A convent is a place where nuns live and dedicate their lives to God. She joined the North Presentation Convent on October 14, 1849. There, she took on a new name, Sister Mary Alphonsus.

However, Ellen's health was not good. Because of this, she could not stay in the convent full-time. Instead, she lived in her own home but still followed the rules of a lay sister. This meant she was part of the religious community but lived outside the convent. Later, she joined another religious group called the Third Order of St Dominic. People like George Russell, a famous Irish writer, thought she was a very spiritual person. He said she was a popular religious teacher.

Her Books and Poems

Ellen Mary Patrick Downing wrote several collections of poems during her life. These books shared her thoughts, feelings, and her deep faith.

• Voices of the Heart: This was a collection of her poems first published in 1868. An even bigger version came out in 1880.
• Novenas and Meditations: This book, published in 1879, contained her prayers and reflections.
• Poems for Children: This special collection of poems, released in 1881, was written just for young readers.]