Sisters of Saint Joseph from across Australia recently celebrated their Tourmaline (75 years) and Platinum (70 years) Jubilees of Religious Profession.
Six Jubilarians from this group of 19 Sisters gathered at Mary MacKillop Place in North Sydney where they were welcomed by Sisters of Saint Joseph Congregational Leader, Sr Josephine Dubiel, fellow Sisters, family and friends. The Most Reverend Terry Brady presided at the Mass and congratulated the Jubilarians on their vowed commitment.
This amazing group of Sisters shared and reflected on their significant years of service in so many ministries – education, music teaching, social justice, parish pastoral care, disability services and working with Companions (Associates).
Sisters who were unable to attend, and those from the profession groups now resting with God, were remembered in prayer and story.
“It is a time to be grateful for the treasures these Sisters are and have been to us,” said Sr Josephine.
“These Sisters have lived the spirit and charism entrusted to the Congregation by Mary MacKillop and Julian Tenison Woods. They have done it with commitment, generosity and faithfulness. We give thanks for indeed God has done great things in them and it fills us with joy.”
Sr Pattie Snudden, who celebrated her Platinum Jubilee, was working as a teacher when she decided to join the Congregation and was professed in 1956.
“I feel more and more grateful for all the things that have happened in my life, especially as a Sister,” said Sr Pattie. “Every part of my life, I believe, has been God’s plan.”
Sr Pattie worked for many years with L’Arche NSW, a faith and relationship-based community that shares everyday life with people with and without an intellectual disability. She is also an accomplished artist, creating colourful works which are reflective and spiritual.
“I’m filled with gratitude, joy, delight and confidence in the presence of God, whose love is beyond limits for every person. Living your life to help others is quite amazing. It just seems so right to be here, and I thank everyone who has believed in me along the journey.”
The Jubilarians were invited to renew their vows by Sister Josephine, and their renewed commitment was met with applause from the Congregation.