By Jackie Galvin, director of development and communications
As you may have heard, our very own Mother Maureen reached the end of her six-year mission here in Scranton. As of December 5, our spiritual leader is now serving in the great northeastern part of the United States as Mother Superior of Jeanne Jugan Residence in Somerville, Massachusetts, part of greater Boston. Even though saying goodbye to Mother Maureen was certainly a sad occasion for so many of us, we certainly sent her off in the same celebratory style she so enthusiastically hosted for our Residents – parties!
At the first gathering on Sunday, November 29, hosted by the members of the Association Jeanne Jugan (AJJ), Resident family members, benefactors, and friends assembled to express their well wishes and thanks to Mother Maureen for all she did to make Holy Family Residence a Home and to welcome Mother Theresa Louisa as the new Mother Superior of our Home.
After the guests were greeted, we were invited to sit back and relax as the AJJs took to the stage and presented songs from “The Sound of Music.” They certainly did a splendid job performing the familiar songs from the film, but as everyone listened closely to the words they realized the lyrics had been creatively modified just a bit to reflect Scranton’s character as well as Mother Maureen’s.
After the show ended, it was time to clean up and prepare for our second farewell party on Tuesday, December 1. This party, which was hosted by Holy Family’s activities department, really paid tribute to Mother Maureen’s gift of building the family spirit that our Residents and staff enjoy in our home.
Just as quickly as they sat down, Mother Maureen and Mother Theresa Louisa were swept into a joy-filled rendition of “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge. As Residents and employees danced through the auditorium carrying the letters F-A-M-I-L-Y and the word FAMILY, we really embraced the message of the song and celebrated Mother Maureen’s spirit building ability one last time.
As you can imagine, when Mother Maureen left for Somerville, we all shed quite a few tears. But, just like any family scattered throughout the country, distance may keep you apart, but God’s love keeps you close in heart.
To catch just a glimpse of the fun we had, check out WNEP-TV 16’s news story and interview with Mother Maureen by
clicking here>>
