Irene Gleeson (1944 – 2013)

Sydney girl Irene Gleeson never intended to become a hero, but there is no doubt ‘Muma Irene’ made an indelible impact upon the world. Born during WWII, Irene’s life was marked by abuse and brokenness until her life-changing encounter with the love of Jesus. In 1991, Irene travelled to the worn-torn country of Uganda, where for 22 years she lived in a tiny caravan in order to minister to the child soldiers of the LRA. Witnessing miracle upon miracle, this brave Australian rescued and educated over 20,000 thousand children who had been brutalised and physically marred by the brutal rebel group. We honour Irene Gleeson and thank God for the courageous faith she inspires to radically obey Jesus – the One who laid down his life to rescue us.