by Maria J. Santomauro, Development Director
On Tuesday September 28, we welcomed our Head of the Congregation, Mother General Celine de la Visitation, while she toured the Brooklyn Province. Ours is one of 11 homes within this territory. She and her assistant Mother Patricia traveled all the way from France! We worked very hard preparing for the days that she would be here.
We were lucky to have the Colts Trolley as part of this momentous occasion. Volunteers, Dave and Joyce Tressler portrayed our home’s original founders, Mr. and Mrs. Martin Maloney. The deeply planted historical roots of our home, The Electric City of Scranton and the Little Sisters of the Poor were woven together and brought to light during her the course of her visit. This was a truly once-in-a lifetime experience.
Mother Celine very graciously greeted each and every one of our residents, staff members and volunteers. We were all truly honored and touched by her presence.
The next day, many festivities continued beginning with Mass Celebrated by Most Rev. Joseph C. Bambera, Bishop of Scranton. He was assisted by several parish priests within the Scranton Diocese. A special luncheon was held in Mother Celine’s honor while she visited with each resident presenting them with a special gift.
We all then gathered in the auditorium for our version of the show, “This Little Light of Mine” performed by residents, staff members and volunteers. Mayor Chris Doherty and Lackawanna County Commissioner, Michael J. Washo, Chairman were also in the house to present Mother Celine with a proclamation and declared Wednesday September 29, 2010
Mother General Celine Day in the City of Scranton!
Mother Maureen joyfully expressed, “The visit of our Mother general was an historic event for all of us Little Sisters as well as for our Residents, Associate members, Employees, Volunteers and family members; all who make up the family of our Mother Foundress, St Jeanne Jugan and specifically to all of us here at Holy Family Residence.”
Sister Cornelia added, “The visit showed the beautiful spirit of the Home. Everybody worked together to make it all happen. For me personally, it confirmed me in my vocation to work in the spirit of St. Jeanne Jugan, to make the Residents happy, to give them love and hope on their final journey to the Father’s house.”
