Congratulations Jubilarians.
standing left to right: Sisters Yvette Girard, Judith Ann Murphy, Rita Gleason, Nöella Séguin, Mary Benilda
seated left to right: Sisters Nancy Hunter, Mary Regina, Monica Laton, Lucy Bethel, Loretto Boland
BY CHRISTINE ROSS
General Superior, Sister Pauline Lally loves to take photographs of paths – a subject that became the theme of her congratulatory speech to the Jubilarians on June 11.
Drawing on these experiences from a life-long photography hobby, she reminded celebrants that in more than one of the psalms, a familiar refrain is repeated, Teach me your path, Lord.
“When Christianity was in its infancy as a movement, it was called The Way,” said Sr. Pauline. “Each of you was chosen and responded to that Way, through the path of religious life.”
She went on the recognize the achievements of all ten Jubilarians, who have amassed an astounding 545 years of combined service in Religious life.
“And look where your path has taken you,” said Sister Pauline, acknowledging all the ministries of the Sisters. “In the classroom, library, hospital, laundry, the orphanage, business offices, Associates, Spiritual Direction, group homes, music studio, occupational therapy and the principal’s office.”
Jubilarian, Sister Judith Ann Murphy, spoke on behalf of the celebrants.
“Wherever we have been on our journeys, in each of these places, we have left pockets of Providence. For many of us, as we grow in age and grace and hopefully wisdom, have much to Be and Do for God.”
Following the speeches, Sisters received corsages, posed for photographs and gathered for a special tea in the Sisters’ Dining Room.
The two day celebration began Friday morning with Mass, followed by an outdoor tree planting and blessing. Sisters gathered around a Red Maple tree planted in their honour as three clergy offered special prayers and blessings (Most Rev. Francis J. Spence Archbishop Emeritus, Monsignor Don Clement and Monsignor Bernard Walsh) Archibishop of Kingston, Brendan M. O’Brien presided at the Eucharistic Celebration on Saturday, June 12. Friar Debono delivered the homily, telling Sisters that the world was their cloister.
“No longer would all religious have to live in monasteries. Through Vincent de Paul and Louise de Marillac something new entered into the visible life of the Catholic Church.”
He went on to say that Sisters of Providence have enriched the Church in Canada with their spirit, gifts and love.
“The Christian community continues to reap the benefits of your commitment to Gospel living which you bring to your ministries.”
During the celebration of the Eucharist, two of the Jubilarians served as Ministers of the Word, Sister Judith Ann Murphy and Sister Rita Gleason while Sister Lucy Bethel read the prayers of the faithful.