The Sisters' day

In 1880, a sisters day began early and ended late. It was filled with devotional, teaching, domestic and administrative duties.

5.25am    Rise at the sound of a bell rung by a 'Caller'.
5.40am    Angelus, prayed in Choir, at the sound of a bell rung from the steeple.
6.00am    Lauds, chanted alternately by two choirs of nuns standing opposite sides of the chapel.
7.00am    Celebration of Mass, offered by a priest of the parish.
7.45am    Breakfast - a simple meal of porridge, bread, butter, tea.
8.00am    Household duties in convent, supervision of duties in boarding school and orphanage.
9.00am    Classes in school, orphanage, parish. Care of the sick.
12.30pm    Lunch - a light meal of bread, butter, jam, tea.
3.45pm    Vespers, chanted in the chapel by two choirs.
4.00pm    Dinner - one course only, with sweets served on Sunday.
4.30pm    Recreation in Community Room or garden.
5.00pm    Matins, chanted in the chapel by alternating choirs. Spiritual reading.
7.30pm    Tea - a light meal of bread and butter.
7.45pm    Recreation in the Community Room.
9.00pm    Night prayers, led by Superior in the chapel.
10.00pm   Lights out, except with permission otherwise.

Sr Dolores preparing food in the boarder's kitchen, 1950s

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