St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Church
A new name, a new altar and a new statue helped usher in a new beginning for Sydney area Catholics on Sunday October 19, 2014 at the 10:00 am Eucharistic Celebration. Diocese of Antigonish Bishop, Brian Dunn, presided at Sunday mass at St. Joseph’s Church where he officially changed its name to St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Church. The name change reflects the coming together of four churches. Pastor Fr. Bill Burke said the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame generously donated a large statue of Marguerite Bourgeoys that now stands outside the church, mounted on a large stone. Bishop Dunn officially dedicated the statue Sunday. It was a time of great celebration as the beautiful choir began the festivities with a song written by Sister Rita Clare, CND, entitled “Hymn to St. Marguerite Bourgeoys”. At the closing of Mass, Fr. Burke spoke of the wonderful work done by the many sisters who have served the Cape Breton area and invited all CND Sisters present to stand, at which point the gathered faith community broke out in continuous applause for them. Associates Frances Gordon and Winnie Odo were humbled to be part of the procession, living mutuality with Sisters Mary Cecilia MacDonald, Mary Murphy and Catherine MacDonald who brought in the relic of St. Marguerite that was placed in the new altar which contains a replica of the first stable school house.
Miramichi Visit
Miramichi Associates invited Marjorie to attend their October 8 Meeting. Geraldine Gordon gave an informative Reflection on the book, Marguerite Bourgeoys and Montreal 1640-1665. I experienced the warm hospitality and “Visitation” of the Miramichi Associates.
The quilted hanging of the “Visitation” seen in the photo was made by Geraldine Gorden and it is present for their meetings.
Diocese of Charlottetown: Opening of year of Consecrated Life
On November 30, the Diocese of Charlottetown officially opened the year of Consecrated Life with a solemn sung vesper service at St. Dunstan's Basilica led by Bishop Richard Grecco.
Following the vesper service, Sister Donna Egan shared a reflection on her vocation and on the charism of the Congregation of Notre Dame. The service closed with the singing of the official hymn: "Wake up the world".
The evening had been organized by a diocesan committee who are planning other celebrations during the year.
Photo by Sue Kidd, CND
