Without notes, Jubilarian Sister Catherine Cannon took the microphone and offered an inspired tribute to the congregation during Jubilee celebrations at Providence Motherhouse in June.
Calling Jubilee a special day, she reminded her fellow celebrants to reflect on this peak experience. “God is saying come up to the mountain top with me, I’ll give you a hand. Dance and sing with me, for this is a day I have made for you; you really need to rejoice and be glad.”
In her address to the Jubilarians, General Superior Sister Kathryn LaFleur remarked the Sisters of Providence continue to be the hands and heart of Providence to God’s people. “Although we celebrate your ministries today and the collective 645 years you have laboured in the vineyard, we celebrate primarily you — each of you for whom you are and for whom you have become as a Sister of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul.”
Family members and friends came from across Canada to join the celebration held on June 16th. Father Don Clement presided at the Eucharistic celebration at the Chapel of Mary, Mother of Compassion at Providence Motherhouse. Homilist Charles Gazeley described the Sisters as beautiful women of prayer. “God has given you the gifts to carry out your apostolic work as Sisters of Providence.”
Also attending the Eucharistic celebration were Archbishop Emeritus Frances Spence and Bishop Vincent Cadieux, Bishop of Moosonee and 14 visiting priests.
Celebrating 70 years of religious life is Sister Mary Fitzpatrick.
Celebrating 60 years are Sisters Jean Edey, Anne Hudec, Elaine Jacob, Mary Mona and Margaret McCallion.
Celebrating 50 years are Sisters Mary Fidelis, Catherine Cannon, Kathleen Morrell, Sheila Way and Lucy Kearney.
Sister Monica Whalen celebrates 25 years.
Celebrating Sisters will receive a DVD of the weekend events and a copy will be available to lend from the Resource Centre.