The Diocese of Clonfert and the Diocese of Galway, Kilmacduagh and Kilfenora are blessed to be home to a wide variety of religious orders and congregations. These communities bring with them long traditions of prayer, service, and pastoral work. They contribute to parish life, education, healthcare, and social outreach, while also sustaining places of silence and contemplation. Their presence adds depth to the life of the Church in the West of Ireland and witnesses to the many different charisms that enrich the Body of Christ.
The following religious are present: the Augustinians, Dominicans, Franciscans, Jesuits, Carmelites (OCD), Redemptorists, Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, Society of African Missions, Brothers of Charity, Christian Brothers, Patrician Brothers, Sisters of Mercy, Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood, Brigidine Sisters, Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy, Dominican Sisters, Sisters of La Retraite, Little Sisters of the Assumption, Poor Clares, Presentation Sisters, and the Religious of Jesus and Mary.
Each year, for the World Day of Consecrated Life, we gather to honour the women and men who live out their vocation in these religious communities. Their witness through prayer, community life, education, healthcare, pastoral ministry and service to the poor is a source of encouragement and strength for the whole diocesan family. We give thanks for their presence among us and for the rich diversity of charisms that they bring to the life of the Church.