Some time ago, we were informed of our General Treasurer’s upcoming visit. She will be visiting here in the Moncton Sector from September 4 to September 7. The purpose of her visit is to get to know us and our region.

A Setback

On September 4, we learned that Sister Hélène Atangana would not by arriving today. Having finished her visit to Edmonton, Alberta, she was ready to travel to Moncton, New Brunswick. A surprise awaited her! Due to some technical issues, her trip was delayed.

Everything went well

After a lot of effort to resolve the issue with her trip, she finally arrived on the 5th, just before dinner. We were very happy to see her and welcome her.    While we went to dinner, she went to get some well-deserved rest after all that traveling and all those hours of waiting at airports. Our country is huge, and I think Sister Hélène learned that the hard way. But she arrived safe and sound nonetheless, and was happy to be here.

Organized Visits and Introduction

Sister Hélène toured the buildings where we live; there are three of them: Royal Court, Canterbury Hall, and Monarch Hall. She also met the sisters from each community.

She was able to talk with the sisters and learn about our life here among so many different religious denominations living together under one roof; there are many people from various professions—now retired—and we get along well. “Wherever we are sent, rooted among a people, we live close to them, in all simplicity.” ”  RV Article 15.  

After dinner, we all gathered on the third floor of Royal Court for a presentation on our history, our foundations, and our mission work here in the Maritimes. As she listened to all of this, she was able to understand where we stand today. It’s a long and rich history that isn’t over yet!

Following this presentation, Sister Hélène asked the group a question: “How did we come to make the decision to leave our Provincial House and settle here?” Of course, the answers and explanations came pouring in.   We can say without hesitation that she fully understood the entire process and what had led us to settle here.

To wrap up our meeting, we were offered fresh fruit as we continued our conversation. At one point, a “family photo” was taken.

A heartfelt thank you

Thank you, Sister Hélène, for taking the initiative to come meet us and get to know us a little. Thank you also for your interest, your kindness, and your support in prayer. We want to assure you that the feeling is mutual.

Jeanne Comeau, f.j.

Riverview, N.B., Canada