A New Abbess in Glencairn

On the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the community at Glencairn Abbey gathered in a spirit of prayerful discernment to elect a new Abbess. We are delighted to announce that Sister Fiachra Nutty has been elected as Abbess of St Mary’s Abbey, Glencairn for a six-year term.

Mother Fiachra entered our community in 2006 and made her solemn profession in 2012. At the time of her election, she was serving as Prioress. We give thanks for her generous response to this new call to service, and we entrust her to the grace and wisdom of the Holy Spirit as she begins this ministry of leadership and care.

This election also marks the conclusion of Mother Marie Fahy’s fourth six-year term as Abbess. For twenty-four years, Mother Marie has guided our community with faithfulness, steadiness, and fidelity. Her years of service have been a profound blessing, and we remain ever grateful for her enduring example and witness.

In Chapter 2 of the Rule of St Benedict, we are reminded of the heart of the Abbess’s vocation:

“Let her strive to be loved rather than feared. She should be prudent and considerate, and whether the occasion requires her to show the severity of a master or the loving affection of a mother, she should aim always at the benefit of the souls committed to her care.” (RB 2:24–25)

Please join us in giving thanks to God for Mother Fiachra, and in praying for our community as we continue our journey together—seeking God in all things, in unity, and in peace.