Nano Nagle
Nano Nagle (1718-1784) was born in Ireland, which suffered under oppressive British rule. Their strict penal laws barred Irish children from attending school or learning about God. At age 32, Nano secretly gathered the children of the poor, teaching them catechism, reading, writing and mathematics. As word spread, Nano's hedge schools increased in number, and more teachers were needed. Nano eventually established seven schools in Cork, Ireland.
Tireless in service, Nano spent her days teaching the children, and her nights caring for the sick and the elderly, bringing them food, medicine and comfort. Captivated by the spirit of the poor she served, she often visited with them late into the night. Lamp in hand, she'd return home making her way among the winding lanes. Before long, Nano became known as the "Lady of the Lantern."
On Christmas Eve, 1775, with a group of like-minded women, Nano established a religious community that would later become known as the Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The Conversion Story
The life of Nano Nagle and its fruits attest to the positive impact a single life can make. As a young woman from a wealthy Irish family, Nano enjoyed a life of privilege. Several experiences pushed her beyond herself and into a life of service to education, the poor and the sick. Read More >
The Christmas Eve Story
“Let’s have a crowd of guests for Christmas dinner,” she said gaily to the Sisters one evening in early December. Read More >
For further information about the life of Nano Nagle:
