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17 Mar 2025

Aranmore Catholic College opens building in honour of Brother John Mann

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On Thursday 10 March, Aranmore Catholic College officially opened the Brother Mann Building in honour of Brother John Mann, a beloved Christian Brother whose life was defined by faith, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to his students and the community.

Brother Rod Ellyard, who spoke about Brother Mann at the opening, described him as a remarkable individual who, ‘despite being short of stature’, made a towering impact on those around him.

“A dedicated teacher of maths and science, Brother Mann had an extraordinary ability to engage his students and bring religious education to life through his deep faith. His classes reflected his passion for learning and teaching, and students were drawn to his warmth and enthusiasm,” said Brother Rod.

“His classes reflected his passion for learning and teaching, and students were drawn to his warmth and enthusiasm”

As Principal, Brother Mann’s leadership was defined by respect and kindness. He believed in the goodness of each student and approached discipline not with punishment but with understanding. Mrs Mary Noonan, Brother Mann’s secretary, recalls how students sent to his office, upset and defiant, often left with a renewed sense of self, having been treated with patience and respect. She shared that Brother Mann’s students loved him, and his gentle approach helped them become better versions of themselves.

When diagnosed with terminal cancer at 41 and given only months to live, Brother Mann’s strength and determination defied expectations, allowing him to live for another seven years, focused on faith, simplicity, and gratitude.

“When he was diagnosed with cancer, his doctor—a former student—had the difficult task of delivering the dreadful news and was visibly upset.On seeing his distress, Brother Mann comforted him with gentle understanding, even as he himself faced his mortality head-on,” said Brother Rod.

“This concern for others was the hallmark of his character.”

During his illness, Brother Mann became detached from worldly concerns, focusing instead on living simply and finding peace.

He spent his days walking along the seashore, breathing in the fresh air, and spending time with close friends.

His spirituality deepened, and he often spoke of cleansing his soul and finding God in the beauty of the world around him.

Brother Mann’s legacy is one of faith, service, and simplicity. The Brother Mann Building stands as a tribute to a man who gave so much of himself to others, whether as a teacher, a principal, a friend, or a mentor.

“His life continues to inspire all of us at Aranmore Catholic College to approach each day with kindness, humility, and a deep commitment to living out our faith,” said Declan Tanham, the current College Principal.

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