On the Second Sunday of Advent, Pope Francis visited the Island of Lesbos in Greece, a place of large numbers of refugees fleeing wars and persecution in their native lands, primarily western Africa and the mid-East. He went among the refugees in their camp, touching the children, blessing them and listening to them. Then he went to a tent right in the midst of the settlement. With an audience of about 100 people, many of them residents of the camp, he spoke briefly and warmly to those assembled.
Toronto Jubilarians: ‘May the God who touched your heart in your youth lovingly look upon your generous years of dedication and service in the Congregation of Notre Dame and say: ’It is good.’
So began the blessing offered by Maureen Baldwin, CND to Congregation de Notre-Dame Jubilarians: Sisters Denise Burns (70), Virginia Sullivan (61—not celebrated last year due to Covid restrictions), Mary Jane Leonard (60), Colleen O’Leary (60) on Saturday, November 27, 2021 at St. Ann Parish Hall in Toronto. Wearing their wrist-corsages, the celebrants cut two delicious cakes and all enjoyed celebrating their combined 251 years of commitment as Congregation de Notre-Dame Sisters with refreshments, conversation and most of all, the rare opportunity to see each other face-to-face!
Serenity Renewal for Families founded by Sister Louise Dunn and associate Alexa Smith continues its good work of assisting individuals and families with addiction issues. Wally who has been involved since the beginning has recently shared his own story. He is still involved in offering virtual workshops which have enabled a continued outreach during these pandemic times. You can read more about Wally's story over the years and see what the current offerings are here.