Our Team Visit to The IOSAS Centre, Co. Donegal

As a team we think it's very important to take time to develop our own spirituality - making time to nurture our own hearts so that we can give generously to the young people who come to our Centre. So on Tuesday, we took at trip up to the IOSAS Centre (Island Of Saints And Scholars) at Derryvane, Co. Donegal.

Our host for the day was our former team-mate and great friend Máire Carlin, who worked here on our team for six years and recently took up her post at the IOSAS centre, close to her native Derry.

The IOSAS Centre focuses on the great contribution Irish saints have made in spreading the Gospel message in Ireland, Scotland, Europe and beyond.

There is a beautifully designed prayer garden, with a specific focus for each saint. As we journeyed round the garden we reflected on the story of each saint.

One of the saints represented is St. Ciarán of Saigher, born on Cape Clear Island off the Cork Coast.

St. Ciarán was a great man for nature - with a particular love for birds. Looking at the beautiful birds in the aviary brought memories of Gerry, our centre's budgie who sadly died in early Winter of 2009. Maire said a few words in his memory.

It was a lovely day - restful and calm, surrounded by beautiful nature. In addition, the hospitality shown by the team at the IOSAS centre was as generous as their reputation - excellent!

The centre is only five miles from Derry city centre, so if you're ever in the direction of Derry or Donegal, and you're looking for a place to reflect in beautiful surroundings, look no further!