Blessing of new mural for Derry nun Sister Clare Crockett this weekend

The striking artwork on the side of shops on Deanery Street off Lecky Road has been created by UV Arts and will be officially dedicated this Sunday at 6pm.

A Candle Light Rosary will be held immediately afterwards at the Brandywell Grotto from 6.30pm, followed by open air Mass at the Grotto at 7pm.

Sister Clare, a native of Iona Terrace in the Brandywell, was killed in an earthquake in the Equadorian town of Playa Prieta on April 16, 2016. The 33-year-old, a member of the Servant Sisters, died when the school building she was in collapsed. Sister Clare had been teaching guitar and singing with five young postulants, who were entering the religious order, when the earthquake struck. She died while trying to save children.

The Brandywell Road will be closed from the roundabout at the Lone Moor Road down towards the grotto from 5.30pm on Sunday. The Lecky Road will be closed from Barrs Traditional Takeaway over past the grotto. Parking will be available in the Gasyard Centre and anyone needing disabled access is asked to drive in at Barrs Takeaway on the Lecky Rd and stewards will give direction for parking.

There will be hand sanitising stations in place and also candles will be available for the rosary, with a suggested donation of £2.

The organisers have said: “All those attending are asked to remain vigilant regarding proper social distancing and if they are also able to wear a mask. During mass there will be spiritual communion only due to space restrictions. We want to ensure the safety of all in attendance so ask for your co-operation in following the direction of stewards on the evening.”