Marguerite Bourgeoys, our Foundress, was duly celebrated in our Halifax Community. Prior to the actual day, Ann Broderick hosted a lovely evening at her home during which time we truly experienced Visitation among us. What a delicious meal she cooked! On the actual Feast, sisters, associates, many parishioners and friends gathered at the newly formed Marguerite Parish where Eucharist was celebrated by Joe Mackinnon, with the homily capably delivered by sister Connie MacIsaac. Sister Connie spoke with confidence and great clarity about Marguerite highlighting her many positive characteristics. It was obvious that Connie knows and loves Marguerite. Generous women from the parish served a lovely lunch. It was interesting to enter into and also observe Visitation is being lived among us.

Sr. Joan Mahoney’s beautiful St. Marguerite Bourgeoys prayer service for January 12 reminds us of the broad, open arms that must have been Marguerite’s as she stood at the shore waiting for the women who would arrive in Montreal in 1663. She was able to anticipate their needs, to welcome them... despite the reserve of other Sisters in the fledgling community. Segue to....

A Path Appears, a film addressing human trafficking and the adversities faced by women and girls around the world will be shown on PBS Stations. Check your PBS Station. The film is based upon the most recent book, A Path Appears: Transforming Lives, Creating Opportunity, by authors/reporters Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn who also wrote the groundbreaking Half the Sky. Viewers will take the journey with Kristof and WuDunn and celebrity activists Malin Akerman, Mia Farrow, Ronan Farrow, Jennifer Garner, Regina Hall, Ashley Judd, Blake Lively, Eva Longoria, and Alfre Woodard to Colombia, Haiti, Kenya and throughout the United States as they explore the roots of gender inequality, the devastating impact of poverty and the consequences that can follow including sex trafficking, teen pregnancy, gender-based violence and child slavery. Along the way, they meet with inspiring activists who are creating effective solutions to combat gender-based oppression, transform lives and provide a roadmap for sustainable future change.