Frances Moloney facts for kids

Lady Frances Isabella Sophia Mary Moloney (born Lewis; 18 April 1873 – 15 August 1959) was an Irish woman who became a nun. She helped start a group of nuns called the Missionary Sisters of St. Columban. When she became a nun, she took the special name Sister Mary Patrick.

Who Was Lady Frances Moloney?

Frances Moloney was born in Ireland in 1873. Her father, Henry Owen Lewis, was a Catholic landowner and a politician. This meant he owned a lot of land and was a Member of Parliament (MP).

Early Life and Family

Frances grew up in a well-known family. She married Cornelius Alfred Moloney. He was a "colonial governor," which means he helped manage a country or area for another country.

After her husband retired, Frances worked for London magazines. She wrote for the "society page." This part of the magazine shared news about important or famous people and their events.

A New Path: Becoming a Nun

In 1913, her husband passed away. After this, Frances thought about becoming a nun. Nuns are women who dedicate their lives to God and often help others.

In 1918, a priest named John Blowick asked her for help. He was part of a group called the Maynooth Mission to China. This group sent priests to China to help people.

Helping Others: The Missionary Sisters

Frances decided to help. In 1924, she worked with John Blowick and Mary Martin. Together, they started a new group called the Missionary Sisters of St. Columban. This group was for women who wanted to help the priests in their mission.

Work in China and Ireland

Frances, now known as Sister Mary Patrick, went to China. She worked there from 1926 to 1936. She helped people and supported the mission.

After her time in China, she returned to Ireland. She became the leader of the Missionary Sisters in Ireland. She helped promote their work until 1946. She continued to serve in a leadership role until 1952.

Legacy

Lady Frances Moloney, or Sister Mary Patrick, dedicated her life to helping others. She played a very important part in starting the Missionary Sisters of St. Columban. This group continues to do important work around the world today.