The Little Sisters of the Poor at Holy Family Residence, Scranton, welcomed three new Jeanne Jugan Associates to its lay member society, Association Jeanne Jugan (AJJ), on April 30. The AJJ, named in honor of the Mother Foundress of the Little Sisters of the Poor, St. Jeanne Jugan, serves as a lay apostolate that shares in the spiritual riches of the Little Sisters by participating in their mission of hospitality to the elderly poor.

Following a one-year formation program, members help to spread the spirit of St. Jeanne Jugan by developing a lively faith and confidence in Divine Providence, a personal love for Jesus recognized in the aged poor, and a spirit of praise. The AJJ serves as an extension of the Little Sisters’ work by participating in the pastoral, recreational, and cultural activities in their home.

The Little Sisters, who have been serving the elderly of Northeastern Pennsylvania since 1908, work closely with staff, volunteers, and benefactors to create a family spirit for the residents who make their home with them. They welcome the elderly who have limited funds and provide for their needs so they can thrive in an atmosphere of respect, dignity, and love.

Photo Caption: Associates and associates-in-training of the Little Sisters of the Poor’s Association Jeanne Jugan at Holy Family Residence, Scranton: First row (seated), left to right: Sr. Kathleen Murphy, l.s.p., AJJ facilitator; Aileen Alunni; Joe Sheridan; Carolyn Coniff; Marlene Tonkin; Josie Roman; Rosemary Blomberg; Eleanor Scalese; Norma Yeager; and Mother Theresa Louisa Woo-Ching, l.s.p.

Second row, left to right: Marianne Ferrario; Pat Aronica; Elaine Falzone; Gayle Joseph; Fred Joseph; Patricia Avery; Maria Ceccacci, AJJ co-coordinator; Bruce Ceccacci; Marlene Deily; Barb Marta; Joan Holzman; Pat Senkow; and Mary Kane.

Third row, left to right: Mary Sheils; Mary Patricia Jordano; Nancy Walsh; Ann Marie Fulmer; George Fulmer; Ann Marie Marx; Anne Ruddy; Cathy Lavelle; Cathy Skrutski; Jackie Galvin, AJJ co-coordinator.

Absent from photo: Michael Andrews; Anne Armezzani; Lorraine Borthwick; Mary Clare Brill; Nancy Cicerini; Mary Kay Dwyer; MaryCarol Kanton; Pete Kanton; Jadwiga Krajewski; Margy Rainey; Lenore Ruddy; Ann Marie Skrutski; Kathleen Statsman; Connie Terrery; Nancy Wilson; and Judi Zanghi.