News from Visitation Province
A Farewell to Remember
September 8th, 2022, the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was the day the Mary of Peace Sisters chose to hold a farewell celebration for Sister Lorraine Costello. Among the invited guests were: Bishop James Wingle, Sisters Susan Cleevely and Kay Duffin, Head nurse Margolie and the Community Coordinators. Originally it was intended to be a wine/cheese although it quickly culminated into a plethora of various foods and a Guatemalan-themed feast.
Approximately, ten minutes before the celebration, we heard that Queen Elizabeth passed away. Later that afternoon, we learned that 45 years ago on this exact day was the anniversary of Lorraine’s first departure to Guatemala.
Each of the Sisters of Mary of Peace chose one word which for them best described Lorraine’s contribution to the community and attached it to a fuchsia-coloured carnation which they then presented it to her. Highlighted were her efficiency, enthusiasm, devotion, courageousness, perception, creativity and self- confidence.
Sr. Joan Foliot gently guided the celebration. The lyrics to the song ‘Now is the Hour’ were re-adapted by Sr. Dorothy Maher. The guests sang this new version for Lorraine. Sr. Clare O’Neill presented her with the appreciation gift. All 15 guests raised their right arms and directed the “Rainbow blessings” towards Lorraine. In expressing her gratitude Lorraine mentioned that her service was “grace- filled” and she concluded with “God is good!”
Carmie Rizzo, Coordinator of Mary of Peace Community
“Sensing the Sacred.”
Celebration at Illahee, East Bay, NS
On Tuesday, September 13th, a beautiful warm, sunny day, the sisters came together at Illahee to celebrate the end of summer. It was a wonderful opportunity for the sisters to greet one another and for some to see one another for the first time in a long time. The greetings were boisterous and joyous. The energy in the room was vibrant. We were able to settle down and were called to share in prayer, The gathering was described well in the prayer in these words, “We gather together to connect with Love, being present in the words and images that bubble up in our hearts and minds.” We also paid tribute to the life of Queen Elizabeth II and raised our glasses in a toast. We had fun with a game and prizes and then enjoyed a very special lunch.
Members of the Illahee Committee
Celebrating life is always so full of happy moments and memories. So it was, as we gathered in the Mary of Peace community on Tuesday, September 13, to celebrate Sr. Monica McKenna’s 90th birthday. It was truly a joyful moment and such a delight to celebrate our special, quietly full of life companion. We wish her ongoing and abundant blessings.
Indeed, the great gift IS the group gathered!
Lorraine Costello, CND for the Mary of Peace community
Indigenous Peoples, Reconciliation, and the Catholic Church
In this free webinar, Wiikwemkoong First Nation Elder Rosella Kinoshameg, DOS and the Jesuits’ Assistant for justice, ecology, and Indigenous Relations Fr. Peter Bisson, SJ, will reflect on the relationship between the Catholic Church and Indigenous communities, Pope Francis’ recent visit to Canada and its implications. What could be next steps towards truth, healing and reconciliation? How are we to continue to walk on the wider journey of reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples? A recording of the webinar will be shared with registered participants 72 hours after the event. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2022, 7:00 P.M. (EASTERN TIME) DURATION: 1 HOUR + 30 MIN. Q&A REGISTER ONLINE For more information: poreilly@jesuits.org
Kathy Kelly, Associate