NEW ZEALAND
For the first time since taking first vows at Heretaunga in 1966, the three of us – Judith, Frances and Pat
were together to celebrate the anniversary of profession for our Diamond Jubilee. This made the occasion all the more special. Sr Priscilla of the Sisters of Mercy at St Mary’s, Ponsonby, kindly welcomed us to celebrate there, and the manager, Sandra, agreed that we use the dining room. It also meant that Sr Margaret Arrowsmith and Maureen Eggleton who live at St Catherine’s could be present.
It was a blessing to have Bishop Steve as principal celebrant because we have not had many smsm occasions when he could be present since he became Bishop of Auckland. He was assisted by Fr Carl Telford, sm, and Mgr Paul Farmer. Surrounded by our smsm sisters we all renewed vows together. Mary setting out in visitation and her Magnificat song of gratitude resounded in our hearts.
As a number of those present were not familiar with the smsm story nor of the various places where we three have been missioned, Judith prepared a little handout “Introducing the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary” for distribution after the mass. This was much appreciated.
SAMOA
Happy Feast Day of the Holy Name of Mary. May her Holy Name, which we bear, bring us together in the mission of her Son wherever we are present, in her spirit of humility, simplicity, peace, joy and love. We celebrated Sr. Malia Tolotea Tauaifaga’s 80th Anniversary of Profession with a Mass presided over by Father Mikaele Tuimavave,sm, at the Vailoa Chapel.
ITALY
Thank you for this yes repeated day after day, for this discreet presence, this listening and this dedication to the service of the peoples of Burundi, Rwanda, France, Futuna, Wallis, Madagascar and Italy.
We give thanks for the gift of their vocation and all the good seed sown through their hands over the decades.
May the Virgin Mary continue to inspire and protect them for years to come. May the peace and joy of Christ dwell in their hearts, illuminate their path and give them health and serenity.
