Each year on August 30, Residents, Little Sisters, Association Jeanne Jugan members, family, and friends gather at various Little Sisters’ homes throughout the world to celebrate the feast day of St. Jeanne Jugan. While Jeanne may not be as widely known as other saints such as Jude, Ann, and Anthony, her intercessory prayers are just as strong and her virtuous life is one worth studying and imitating in our own.
Here in Scranton, we marked her feast day with a special Mass and luncheon. The Mass, which was celebrated by Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton, was extraordinary. In his homily, Bishop Bambera spoke so eloquently about St. Jeanne Jugan as he drew comparisons between her work and Jesus’ teachings in the Beatitudes.
Following the Mass, Bishop Bambera personally greeted every person who attended the Mass and then joined us for lunch.
As we feasted on a delicious turkey dinner with all of the trimmings, everyone enjoyed the operatic talents of Mr. Giovanni Antidormi. Giovanni, a tenor who has performed with the New York Lyric Opera Company and at Madison Square Garden, is always well received by our Residents and this year was no exception. He sang many Italian favorites, but the one that brought the crowd to its feet was “That’s Amore” – a favorite of all of our Residents and most especially Lena G. Being aware of Lena’s love of this song and all things Italian, Giovanni began to serenade her with this classic but was quickly and pleasantly surprised when Lena serenaded him instead!
As Giovanni continued to entertain, Mother Maureen announced that CNA Johnnie Gary had been nominated by his fellow employees and selected as the recipient of the 2013 St. Jeanne Jugan Award. This award is given annually to an employee who exemplifies the spirit of St. Jeanne Jugan and embodies a work ethic of humble service.
As you can tell, it was quite a day here at Holy Family Residence. Please click here to review a photo slideshow capturing highlights of the day.
