After a busy year of preparation and planning, St. Gertrude’s parish in Woodstock celebrated their 175th Anniversary on Sunday, October 8. I was invited to represent the Congrégation de Notre-Dame Sisters; our presence in Woodstock goes back to 1983. The people there have stories and happy memories of all who served there. A lengthy slideshow during the meal brought back faces familiar to us. Sister Therese Arsenault, who was there from the beginning, (Sister T., she was called) was given honourable mention in many conversations. Congratulatory letters were read from Sisters Esther Clarkin and Ann Marie McDougall, two of the most recent ministry persons; both were unable to be present. The Congrégation de Notre-Dame Associates continue their active involvement since we have moved from the parish. It was a treat to be included in the celebration events with Bishop Harris, former pastors, past-and-present parishioners, friends and guests.
On Tuesday, October 10th the former and new administration team members met for the transfer of Province responsibilities.
The opening prayer of our gathering inspired us with the following words:
Giver of the dream, this I ask:
for courage to take the paths the feet of my soul have always known;
for vision to see the wonders the eyes of my longing would never forget;
for stillness to hear the song the ear of my spirit will ever remember;
for daring to taste the delights the tongue of my heart forever recalls;
for wisdom to touch the depths the hands of my desire could never erase.
In the ritual of blessing, former team members symbolically blessed members of the new team and offered a bracelet of beads representing the various gifts of leadership: Wisdom; Compassion; Courage; Balance; Commitment; Vulnerability and Vision.
May the spirit abide deeply in all of us as we continue to journey forth.
On Wednesday, October 11, during morning collation, Sister Ercilia Janeth Ferrera Erazo introduced the Mother house sisters and staff to the new local community leader: Sister Jeanne Bonneau.
Sister Jeanne is very familiar with the community, as she has been part of it for many years. To the sustained applause of everyone present, she stated that she was very happy to be called to continue the Mother house’s mission of hospitality, which, she stressed, would be carried out with everyone’s cooperation!
Congratulations Sister Jeanne and thank you for your service!