THE work of some of the greatest poets has been recorded onto a special CD in the hope that the encouraging words will help to heal those in need.

Poetry opens up a world of surprises, fun, memories, sadness and beauty, says Sister Rose Marie Keenan RSM, a former teacher at Mount Lourdes, who spearheaded the project.

The CD entitled ‘Poems of Hope and Healing’ was launched in the Aisling Centre last week by Enniskillen journalist Denzil McDaniel who spoke of his admiration of Sister Keenan’s work.

In 2013, the former English teacher began offering poetry sessions to adults in the Aisling Centre, gatherings that she said “proved life-giving and inspiring.” “Poetry moved out of the classroom and an examination syllabus to shared reflections on life, its journeys, memories and experiences. These adults were fertile soil for the seed. Their words tumbled into the room with wonderment, questioning and wisdom. There was a growing sense of self-worth, as all insights were treated with respect,” explained Sister Keenan.

“The poetry readings meandered over the centuries; from Herbert and Donne, from Wordsworth and Hopkins, to Yeats, Kavanagh and Heaney.

“This was followed with American poetry; Emily Dickinson, Jessica Powers and Mary Oliver. Contemporary Irish poets, such as Paula Meehan and Brendan Kennelly spoke to us of our world and our lives today,” she said, believing that Seamus Heaney’s death gave people a new desire to read his poetry.

“With poetry, a door swings open, a brave new world beckons, and we are invited to enter into the mystery of life, its joys and sorrows – our own and those of others,” she said.

The CD “offers a map for the journey beyond the open door” and features poems and commentaries by Sister Keenan which are “linked to the overarching theme of the search for happiness, peace, hope and healing.” “These poems can be used individually for personal reflection, or as a catalyst for group sharing. They can lead us to new insights as we touch into significant events, places, people, evocative memories,” she said.

All proceeds from the sale of the CD will go towards the work of the Aisling Centre – a counselling centre in Enniskillen which aims to bring hope and healing to its many clients. The CD costs £5 and can be purchased at the Aisling Centre or at St. Michael’s Church in Enniskillen.