Theresa Kearney

Mary Kevin Kearney (born Teresa Kearney; 28 April 1875 – 17 October 1957) was an Irish teacher, Franciscan Sister, and missionary, who founded the Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa in 1952. Born in Arklow, Ireland, she became an assistant mistress at 17 and taught in England. On 2 December 1902, she left to begin missionary work in Nsambya, Uganda, working as a Franciscan Sister of Saint Mary's Abbey, Mill Hill, London.

Kearney's work in East Africa resulted in the formation of multiple hospitals and training of nurses throughout the region. Her name serves as the root of the word Kevina, which means "hospital" or "charity institute" in Uganda. In 2016, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lugazi opened her beatification process, securing her the title Servant of God.

Early life

Family Teresa Kearney was born in Knockenrahan, Arklow, County Wicklow, on 28 April 1875 as the third daughter of farmer Michael Kearney and Teresa Kearney. Her maternal grandmother, Grannie Grenell, then raised Kearney in Curranstown, County Wicklow. Grannie Grenell had a profound impact on Kearny's spiritual beliefs and deep faith. When Kearney was 17, Grannie Grenell died.

Promotion of female education Kearney is credited for promoting higher education in Catholic African women in her mission. In 1923, she founded the Little Sisters of St. Francis, a community of African nuns for teaching and nursing. The Little Sisters of St. Francis currently has over 500 members throughout Africa,

Awards In 1918, Kearney was made Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her work during the war. In 1955, she was also awarded the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice by Pope Pius XI, for her work in Uganda.