During their annual Tea with the Sisters, the Associates presented the Congregation with a replica of an outdoor bench that will grace our grounds. The gift was made in honor of the 150th anniversary of the Congregation’s founding in Ebensburg, PA.
In her greeting to 49 Sisters, Associate Judy Lewis expressed how “blessed and grateful” the Associates were to be able to once again “come home” to the Motherhouse. “Together, we are able to journey in ministries that are important to our charism and share times of prayer as prayer partners,” she said.
Judy said the bench as well as a glider will be placed on the grounds “so the Sisters or a visiting ‘dear neighbor’ can rest in the profound love of God that surrounds us.” Each seat will be designated with a sentiment to mark the occasion.
Twenty Associates attended the Tea, sharing love, laughter and conversation with the Sisters. It was a joyful reunion following a long separation because of COVID-19 restrictions. The get-together was also an opportunity for Sister-Associate prayer partners to re-connect and capture memories in photographs as they sat on the bench.
Contributing to the celebration was Associate Lois Wendel who wrote the following poem:
The Bench
Today we stand to celebrate
A century and a half
To honor those
Who pointed out the path,
To give thanks for their guidance
And their welcome.
Tomorrow, we may sit
And reminisce,
Reflect on our gatherings,
Recite our stories,
Rejoice in union,
And relish our journey
Together.
