News from Visitation Province
From British Columbia
The Okanagan associates gathered in Kelowna to celebrate Visitation. We have been studying Listening to Indigenous Voices and spent the day together studying and praying together before renewing our commitments. We also had a number of milestones to celebrate that were missed because of COVID. Kathleen, Carol and Sr. Nancy all celebrated 80th birthdays, Rick and Ellen celebrated 60 years of wedded bliss and both Lorne and Maria turned 70.
Pat Weicker, Associate
Visitation at Marguerite Bourgeoys Centre, Summerside
With joy in our hearts, we, sisters and associates, gathered at Marguerite Bourgeoys Centre to share on our orientation, to pray, to sing, to celebrate the Feast of the Visitation, to renew our vows and commitment and to enjoy a delicious meal. Alleluia! The Sisters and Associates were joined at dinner by members of one of the prayer groups who meet weekly at Marguerite Bourgeoys Centre.
Shelley Grant, CND
Fortress Louisbourg
Following a two-year semi closure, Fortress Louisbourg is opening up this summer. It is with a very grateful heart that I thank those wonderful Sydney Associates who managed to volunteer their time during the past 2 years. I am sure that Marguerite smiled with pleasure at your efforts.
Connie MacIsaac, CND
Jubilee celebrations at Résidence Bon-Secours in Montreal
Jubilees are always joyful occasions in the Community and this year was no exception. After all the COVID restrictions over the past two years, it was a great joy to honour and celebrate the 29 sisters at the Residence who were celebrating Jubilees this year. Sisters Gladys Hayward, Dorothy Maher and Clare O'Neill from Mary of Peace Community were among the Diamond Jubilarians. Early in the week of May 15th there was a buzz of activity as beautiful decorations were appearing everywhere. On Thursday afternoon, Sr. Joan Foliot led the sisters of Mary of Peace in a prayerful reflection, using the theme “The Lord has set his heart on you.” Following this, the sisters were treated to a festive afternoon collation. The climax of the Jubilee celebrations took place on Sunday with a beautiful Eucharistic celebration in the chapel where the Jubilarians all renewed their vows.
They, and their guests then moved to the cafeteria where all enjoyed a delicious festive meal.
Our prayers and congratulations are extended to all the Jubilarians. AD MULTOS ANNOS!
Natalina Farinaro, Coordinator
Jubilarians celebrated in Kingston, ON
On Sunday, June 12th the CND Sisters of Kingston plus Sr. Marijke Gerretsen gathered at the Providence Motherhouse to celebrate our 2022 Jubilarians. A decorated hall of flowers and balloons was the background as we recognized 70 years of profession for Sisters Nancy Tallmire and Ruth Penny, and 60 years of profession for Sister Eleanor Monahan. There were songs, a few words of recognition, gifts, cake and a joyous spirit to mark this special occasion.
Rosemary Shannon, CND
Truro News
Truro area Associates gathered at Joan's home on the afternoon of May 31st. Present were Joan, Trudy, Bev, and Anna. We began our time together with reflection and sharing of our faith journeys since we last gathered in April. Later we renewed our commitment as Congregation of Notre Dame Associates. Included in the renewal by proxy were Roby and Juanita who were unable to attend today's gathering.
We concluded our gathering with a lovely potluck meal and animated sharing and laughter around the table. Our group will resume its monthly gatherings in September, when we will continue our study of Richard Rohr's book, The Universal Christ.
Trudy Cox, Associate
June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day
This is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
In cooperation with Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada chose June 21, the summer solstice, for National Aboriginal Day, now known as National Indigenous Peoples Day. For generations, many Indigenous peoples and communities have celebrated their culture and heritage on or near this day due to the significance of the summer solstice as the longest day of the year. The Jesuit Forum for Social Faith and Justice has an article about its resources for National Indigenous History Month which details the nature and purpose of its publication, “Listening to Indigenous Voices”: https://jesuits.ca/stories/listening-to-indigenous-voices-through-the-jesuit-forum/
Kathy Kelly, Associate
Movie Recommendation
Coda: Life with Music (not to be confused with the more recent movie, CODA) was filmed in Montreal and focuses on the stage fright an older renowned classical pianist has started to experience about performing. A music journalist for The New Yorker who wants to write an article about him finally succeeds in getting him to share his story and their friendship assists him in finding a healing path to dealing with his losses. Beautiful settings, fine acting and classical music woven throughout.
Kathy Kelly, Associate