Irish Pastoral Centre Profile

By Kieran C. O’Sullivan

The Irish Pastoral Centre in Quincy is a non profit agency dedicated solely to catering to the needs of Irish immigrants.  Its services include ministering to the sick and imprisoned, assistance on housing, employment, immigration and citizenship matters.

Aine Cryts

Marathon Runner/Fundraiser

How did you get involved with the IPC?

I got involved through my mother, Noelle Cryts, who attends a lot of your weekly events. I must say: She always has a great time and has developed some real friendships with both your staff and the folks who attend your events. For that, I’m very grateful.

I had the real honor of meeting Irish President Mary McAleese this past spring – so that was my first in-person contact with IPC. I was – and continue to be – profoundly impressed by your mission of ministering to Irish people throughout greater Boston.

Is there Irish connections in the family?

My mother is from Woodlawn, Co. Galway, and our family has a house in Kilconnell, which is just a few miles outside Ballinasloe.

Will this be your first time in Ireland?

This’ll be far from my first time in Ireland. Thanks to my parents, my family spent many full summers in Ireland. A good few years ago, my parents built a house in Kilconnell, which is where we stay when we visit. In addition, I’ve lived and worked in Dublin – for a TD and at Dublin City University. I’m looking forward to going back to Ireland – I haven’t visited since 2004.

Is it your first time doing the Dublin marathon?

It’s both my first marathon – and my first Dublin marathon. From everyone I’ve asked, it’s one of the very best marathons for a first-time marathoner. The crowd’s supposed to be great. I suppose it doesn’t hurt that the entire course is flat! Plus, Irish weather is the best for running.

What is involved in training? 

Training involves loads and loads of running and floor exercises and yoga. I run and work out at least five times a week. Some days, it’s faster runs. Other days, it’s slower but longer runs. But definitely a lot of running.

Have you done other marathons?

This will be my first marathon. My hope is to do at least one a year and to do each in a different city. That said, I’ll be quite happy to have one marathon under my belt and absolutely look forward to crossing that finish line in Dublin in October!

Authors Note:  Everyone at the Irish Pastoral Centre wishes Aine well as she embarks on her Marathon effort.  We appreciate her support.  Anyone who wants to send a donation to the IPC honoring Aine’s efforts may send it to: Attn Sr. Marguerite Kelly, IPC, 953 Hancock St., Quincy, MA 02170