Woodstock Associates Gathered in December and January
Submitted by Woodstock Associate Marjorie Allison-Ross
Woodstock Associates were fortunate to be able to meet in both December and January. It had been a few months since the group gathered for the annual Retreat at Skiff Lake in September. A small group met in the Parish Centre on December 12th using COVID Protocols. In regular times, we would have met in someone’s home for Prayer and a Pot Luck Lunch celebrating the Advent Season. Since we were in COVID Pandemic times, we enjoyed a simple meal similar to what Marguerite served the Sisters in her time, soup and bread/biscuits. We also had dessert. One person served the food. One tradition that our group has at the December meeting is to prepare Christmas cards for sisters, priests, Associates who used to live in Woodstock, Associate Coordinators and Associates who are now housebound. This is a way that we can practice Visitation from a distance. For our prayer, the Group used an Advent Prayer and “Elizabeth’s Hope: A Meditation” to reflect on Mary and Elizabeth’s visitation with each other. Elizabeth said, “Here I Am.”
On Sunday, January 23, for the first time in many months, the Congregation de Notre-Dame Sisters in Providence Motherhouse were able to gather for a celebration. The occasion was the 97th birthday of Sister Anne Coffey. On this wintry day, our hearts were warmed by our ability to see one another and spend some social time. Following the health care protocols we gathered in the main dining room to honour Anne. After presenting Anne with a gift, the festivities continued with everyone indulging in a delicious birthday cake and ice cream, along with other treats. We were so glad that Anne provided us with a chance to come together again to celebrate. Thanks to Sister Pat Arsenault and Sister Mildred Chabassol who prepared the party.
Associates News
West Haven Associates Jan and Judi and a friend made warm blankets for the homeless in Waterbury, CT, in support of Sr. Patricia McCarthy’s ministry with the homeless. All Congregation de Notre-Dame Associates are involved in service projects throughout the year. This year as we celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Associate Relationship, we are all invited to complete three individual actions and one action with our local associate group. Together for the life of the world, may we be Transforming Love – written in every heart.