Sr. Carmel Crimmins, pioneering social concerns minister, returns to God

Sister Carmel Crimmins, a Sister of Mercy who was a pioneer in social concerns ministry in the diocese, was called to eternal rest on Sunday at a Care Center in her native Ireland. Sr. Carmel began her ministry in the diocese in 2002 when she spearheaded the Get on the Bus program here that helped connect children and teens with their incarcerated mothers and fathers. That same year, Bishop Gerald Barnes established the diocesan Office of Social Concerns and named Sr. Carmel as its first director. Later, she was named the first director of the Department of Community Services, which is now the Department of Life, Dignity and Justice. She served on the diocesan Curia from 2002 to 2008, when she began a new ministry outside the diocese.  Her humor and infectious smile were matched by a dogged advocacy for human life and dignity, whether it was leading public demonstrations against abortion and the death penalty or mentoring lay Catholics and young people on lobbying trips to the State Capitol or planting the seeds of Restorative Justice ministry in the diocese. When she departed the diocese she reflected on her work for the poor and vulnerable. “This ministry put me in touch with people who were hidden. I was inspired by their gratitude for whatever they received.” A Mass of Resurrection was celebrated for Sr. Carmel at St. Mary of the Isle Convent in Cork, Ireland on Sept. 30.