Sir, – I write with a heavy heart at the passing of Sister Stanislaus Kennedy, or Sr Stan as she was known to many. Her life was a testament to faith in action, compassion without end, and tireless advocacy for the most vulnerable among us.

I was privileged to meet Sr Stan a few times during my work with people in need. Each encounter was a gift. Her words of encouragement, gentle prayers and quiet guidance gave me courage in moments when the scale of suffering in Ireland, Asia and Africa felt overwhelming.

Through Focus Ireland, which Sr Stan founded in 1985, through the Immigrant Council of Ireland, and through the Sanctuary on Stanhope Street, Dublin she transformed faith into action.

She confronted homelessness not merely as a social problem but as a moral and spiritual one. She believed that hope is not naive optimism – it is trust that light will come, even in the darkest places.

Her writings, Seasons of Hope and Gratitude, taught me that every act of kindness matters, that gratitude strengthens the soul and that compassion is a discipline not a choice. In moments of despair, her courage and vision reminded me to keep working, to keep praying and to keep believing that every person deserves a home and a sense of belonging.

Now that Sr Stan has returned to God, we honour her best by continuing her mission. We must act, building homes, advocating for the voiceless and walking alongside those society often forgets. As Scripture calls us: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Sr Stan’s light shone brightly across Ireland. – Yours, etc,

RONAN SCULLY,

Knocknacarra,

Galway.

Sir, – My 1969 Leaving Cert class went on retreat, as was typical at the time, to the Peace in Christ centre in Kilkenny.

Part of the schedule was to take a silent, contemplative walk in the adjacent garden. At some point, three or four of us took cover in a quiet corner where we compromised our “vow of silence”.

We were soon thrown into panic as we observed a young woman appro