I have called you by Name.
You are mine."
Isaiah 43:1
God blessed the day with sunshine and, rare for this time of year, a refreshing breeze. It was the day to celebrate the anniversaries of two of our Sisters: Sister James (75th) and Sister Rosemary (50th anniversary of Religious Profession) ... Sunday, August 11, 2019.
The day began with a festive dinner at noon for familiey and closest friends. A very special Holy Mass followed at 2:00 with Father Carl Gentile as the principal celebrant. Many gathered for the Holy Mass to celebrate the life and years of service of these two Sisters. Sister James spent all of her professional life teaching children, with enthusiasm and creativity. While teaching the necessary subjects, she never failed to impress on her students the goodness of our Creator and that He is most deserving of our love. At 97 Sister James continues to be enthusiastic in spreading the "Good News" of God's love through "holy packets" filled with prayer cards, holy pictures, and religious medals to encourage and inspire others.
During her 50 years as an SDR, Sister Rosemary helped others in a wide varienty of ways. Her first years were spent working in the business office of our hospital in South St. Paul, Minnesota. Later on she prepared to work with the elderly, eventually becoming administratior of our nursing home in Darby, PA. After this Sister served in parish social ministry at two parishes: St. Bartholomew's in Penn Hills and St. anthony's in Monongahela, Pa. wherever she was sister Rosemary was sensitive to both the pastoral and practical needs of others.
God has blessed our small American Region with three Sisters who have outstanding voices and did an ourstanding job: Sr. Geraldine, Sr. Michaela, and Sr. Viannea.
On glitch provided a special challenge on the occasion: road-repair detour on about five of the roads leading to the Motherhouse. In spite of this we are not aware of anyone coming late because of these. Not sure of there were guiding angels overhead, but let's give credit to the smart drives as well!
A cake-coffee-fruit punch reception brought the happy day to a close.
Sister Joanne, SDR
