Burt’s Carmel hangs up her duster after almost 50 years of service
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The 91-year-old has helped care for the iconic church since it first opened its doors in 1967
Well-known Burt woman Carmel McDermott has finally decided to hang up her duster after almost half a century helping to keep one of Inishowen’s most iconic churches looking its best.
After dedicating almost 50 years to cleaning St Aengus’ Church in Burt, Carmel recently decided that, having reached the grand age of 91 (and with her 92nd birthday fast approaching), it was time to put away the brushes, dusters and polish.
It is a remarkable record of dedication, with Carmel having helped care for the distinctive roadside church since it first opened in 1967.
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Designed by renowned architect Liam McCormick, St Aengus’ Church is one of the most recognisable buildings in Donegal, and Carmel has played her part in ensuring that its striking interior remains in pristine condition for generations of parishioners and visitors.
Her association with church service goes back even further, however. From the age of just 16, Carmel helped dress the altar in the old church for Mass, meaning her years of service to the parish span more than seven decades.
To mark her retirement, Burt, Inch and Fahan Parish Priest Fr Francis Bradley recently called to the church on Carmel’s final working day to personally thank her for her tremendous commitment and dedication.
The beautiful award-winning church continues to look as impressive as it did when it first opened its doors in 1967, thanks in no small part to Carmel and the various teams of cleaners who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes over the years.
Thankfully, Carmel is not hanging up her apron completely when it comes to helping her parish. She will still be a familiar face at the weekly bingo in St Mary's Hall, where she will be more than happy to sell you a bingo book!
Meanwhile, the parish is now looking for two cleaners to take over from Carmel and help maintain the church to the exceptionally high standards she has helped set.
Finally, a huge thank you to Carmel for her many years of outstanding service, dedication and care. Her contribution to St Aengus’ Church and the wider parish is greatly appreciated.