Scores of LDS men and women, including many who are decades removed from full-time missionary work in Ireland, continue to help the Church grow on the Emerald Isle.
Through the Shamrock Society — a non-profit organization of former mission presidents and missionaries who served in Ireland — more than 90 Irish-born missionaries have received financial assistance as they delivered the gospel's message. The contributions have been a blessing to many faithful Irish members "who would not be able to go on missions without help," said society trustee Thomas Harkness.
The Shamrock Society was organized almost 40 years ago by missionaries who served with President Stephen R. Covey and Sister Sandra Covey, who opened the first Irish Mission and served from 1962-65. Since then, 15 mission presidents and some 3,300 missionaries have served in Ireland, according to the society.
The society — which is not operated by the Church — has reportedly funded the entire cost of some missions, and a portion of many others. "It just depends what their needs are," said Brother Harkness, who served from 1963-65.
Some society members might contribute $100 a month, while others may make a $5 monthly contribution, Brother Harkness said.
The Shamrock Society has also raised the $6,200 needed to purchase and house the 1901 Irish Census. The census will be an invaluable tool for both missionary and family history work, Brother Harkness said.
"It's the first census that is complete in Ireland."
The census consists of 1,258 microfilm reels and is expected to be placed in the Dublin Ireland Stake Family History Library. The records are expected to be used by both Irish nationals and many Americans of Irish descent.
"The 1901 census is one of the important remaining genealogy records in Ireland," said Ireland Dublin Mission President Thomas Brighton. "Having this census in our Family History Library will be a draw for Irish people seeking their family roots. . . . this opens an avenue for the missionaries to answer questions about the Church and the reasons we maintain genealogy records."
In addition to raising funds to assist the Church in Ireland, the Shamrock Society also performs a social role by holding regular reunions, often at the home of Brother and Sister Covey.
Rondo Shaw was one of the original elders to serve in the Irish Mission, arriving in 1962. Now living in St. George, Utah, Brother Shaw said the Shamrock Society has allowed him to maintain the camaraderie of his former fellow missionaries and his mission president.
More information about the Shamrock Society is available at irishmission.com.
E-mail to: jswensen@desnews.com
