CELEBRATING THE SILVER AND GOLDEN JUBILEES OF FOUR VERY SPECIAL LADIES WHO WERE CALLED TO SERVE GOD.

 

Ann Fleming, Nola Goodwin and Anne Bond

The camaraderie amongst the congregation spoke of the connection and fellowship amongst the friends and families who came together on Saturday, July 2^nd under the dome of the majestic Corpus Christie Church in Nundah to celebrate the occasion of the golden and silver jubilees for Sister Jubilarians, Anne Bond rsj, Ann Flemming rsj, Nola Goodwin rsj, and Sandra Hopkins rsj.  Main Celebrant, Monsignor John Grace and Concelebrants, Father Nick de Groot svd and Father Bernie Gallagher conducted the mass which honoured the ladies’ call to serve God as Sisters of St Joseph, for the two Annes and Nola, 50 years ago, and 25 years ago for Sandra.  Following Anne’s emotive reflection of their lives in the footsteps of Saint Mary McKillop and their sharing of the mission of Jesus, in the presence of the congregation, these four Sisters were able to reaffirm their vows of poverty, chastity and obedience: their commitment to fidelity and love.

At home on Corpus Christie’s magnificent organ, as she is at any musical keyboard, Alexis’s backdrop of beautiful playing ranged from the softest of pianissimo as the congregation found their places to thundering forte as they departed, interspersed with sublime accompaniments for the hymns which, through song, brought both choir and congregation together, singing from the heart the songs of praise and celebration.

B: Alexis, Ruth, Jan, Anna,   F: Margaret and Joann

While the pomp and fanfare of another recent Jubilee saw a Commonwealth celebrating, this Jubilee was no less special for all who were privileged to be a part…made even more special for the ensemble of Choir members who led the singing, for Sister Anne was part of our Ruth’s family, her big sister, in fact.  

Following the mass, celebrations rolled on around tables at the Virginia Bowls Club where, over a tantalizing lunch, friends and families congregated, old acquaintances were renewed, and new ones formed.  We of the Esk Community Choir wish to sincerely thank the ‘Angels’ who allowed us to be a part of this special day and for their welcoming fellowship and hospitality.  

By: Sue Walker