Festive fund-Raising

On January 12, 2001, "a joyful noise" was heard in the northeast Bronx. At Villa Maria Academy, about thirty CNDs, CND alumnae, and friends gathered to celebrate Marguerite with a hearty supper of soup and bread before moving on to St. Benedict Church for an evening of sacred song.

Sister Kathleen Deignan, several CNDs and other musicians, the fourth grade students of the Villa, and members of the former folk group at St. Benedict’s gathered before the altar to share their gift of song and music before an audience of over two hundred to help raise funds for the Villa, devastated by fire just before the opening of school last August. Sister Ona Bessette’s liturgical dance at the start and conclusion of the concert was music - prayer in motion. The beauty of the dance, the singing, and the smiles of the students were echoed by the generosity of Villa supporters. $8200 dollars was raised. Marguerite’s feast day was truly a day for giving thanks - for her; for gifts of song, music, and dance; and for the support of Community and loving friends.