Convent Grounds


The Convent Grounds

The grounds of the convent consist of five acres, surrounded by high walls.  The mature gardens and lawns there are home to a magnificent variety of trees and shrubs.  The sisters have a special attachment to this haven of peace and tranquility, and they frequently go there for reflection and relaxation.  On every Easter Sunday morning throngs of people from the parish and beyond come to this unique setting to join the community in celebrating a 'Dawn Mass'.

At the southern end of the grounds lies the nuns cemetery.  One hundred and twenty seven sisters including the Founding Sisters and a grand-daughter of Irish patriot Henry Grattan are laid to rest in this hallowed space.  The Grattan family was instrumental in funding the convent in its early years. 
In the cemetery stands a beautiful oratory.  The stonework is an amazing example of 19th century architecture.  The oratory contains the marble altar which was taken from the old Convent Chapel.