Missionary nun from Co Cavan cared for Pope Francis as newborn in Argentina

The Bergoglio family, who lived in Buenos Aires, called on the religious order the Little Sisters of the Assumption for help when they were expecting their first child in December 1936.

Sr Olivia Maria, a long way from her own home near Kilnaleck in Co Cavan, arrived to care for the mother and her newborn, who would grow up to become the head of the Catholic Church more than seven decades later.

Author Matt Moran first traced the origins of the woman who cared for the Pope as a newborn, uncovering the significant Irish connection to the late pontiff, who died this week aged 88.

Today's News in 90 seconds - 23rd April 2025

Sr Olivia Maria was born Susan Cusack in the parish of Crosserlough in south Cavan on January 1, 1889.

She was one of six children and lived on a small farm with their parents Philip and Ellen Cusack...
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