On May 3, a grand celebration was held in honor of our eight jubilarians in Moncton, Canada. It was a wonderful time of thanksgiving.

It is often said that celebrating a jubilee is a time for recognition and gratitude—recognition for the calling one has received and gratitude for all that this person has experienced and continues to experience. It was a wonderful opportunity to share in a fraternal celebration and to offer wishes for a year of blessings and graces to each of the jubilarians.

This celebration was prepared by a wonderful team (our three-support staff and three sisters) who worked hard to incorporate many aspects of the lives of each of the sisters celebrating 80, 75, 70, 65, and 40 years of religious life.

Eucharistic Celebration

The day began with the Eucharist celebrated by our chaplain, Father Babineau. We were even very surprised to learn that we would have the chance to hear a talented five-person choir sing, following an invitation from one of our sisters.  The five, all from the former Christ-Roi parish in Moncton, agreed to come and celebrate with us. What beautiful voices!  The songs were indeed well chosen: “Acclamez Dieu” for the entrance, “Toi, tu es mon berger” for the Psalm, and “Deviens ce que tu contemples” for Communion. The songs greatly contributed to making this celebration even more beautiful!    

Afternoon Relaxation

The time has come to enjoy a festive presentation in honor of our jubilarians. Once again, thanks to the expertise of our Jubilee Celebration Committee, it was decided that we would take stock of everything that happened after the official Olympic Games in Italy. Our jubilarians did indeed participate in the Olympic Games, but this took place after the official Games. Each sister was presented with a medal for the various missions she has carried out throughout her life so far, as well as a certificate of recognition. 

After the certificates and medals, it was time for snacks!  As usual, the snacks were well prepared, the cake was beautifully decorated and delicious.  A very sincere thank you to everyone who organized this wonderful celebration.  We will remember this beautiful day for a long time!

The celebration is drawing to a close

From 40 to 80 years of religious life—what a journey! We have already experienced so much, and there is still much more to come. “Whatever our circumstances and apostolic tasks may be, whether we are active, afflicted by illness, or have reached retirement age, we all share the same mission. ”  (RV 14)   Whether we are 100 years old or younger, we are always called to “Honor the Sacred Humanity of the Son of God” (Rule 1842, art. 3), “to put out into deep water and, relying on his Word, to cast our nets.”  (Lk 5:5)

Jeanne Comeau, fj

Moncton, Canada