Celebration of 150th Anniversary of the death of Marie Madeleine,
Foundress of the Sisters Faithful Companions of Jesus, and
125th anniversary of the arrival of the Sisters in the Province of the Americas

Last week was one of great celebration here at St. Philomena School/Convent. On Monday March 31, 2008, two trees were planted on the grounds to mark the two special anniversaries. A dedication ceremony will take place when the weather becomes warmer.

As is the tradition here at St. Philomena School, on or around April 5 each year, Jennifer Abbate, Companion in Mission, and her Gr. 3 class, lead the entire school assembly in a special prayer service in honor of Marie Madeleine.

This year the prayer took place on Thursday, April 3 and incorporated the beautiful silhouettes of Sisters who have gone before us and the song Standing Before Us, as well as The Gigi Song. Brief reflections on our beautiful charism painting were also read by several of the Gr. 3 students. Each class was presented with a small framed picture of the painting.

As a way of connecting prayer with action, mention was made of class outreach projects, e.g. The Rhode Island Food Bank and Pennies for Patients. Pictures of the two anniversary trees adorned the sacred space.

On Saturday April 5, 2008, a Mass of Praise and Thanksgiving took place in the St. Philomena School Auditorium at 4.30 pm, followed by a reception. Fr. John Murray, SJ, from Boston College, a long time friend and fan of FCJs in this area, presided. Our school Chaplain, Fr. Chris Davis, OSB, from nearby Portsmouth Abbey, concelebrated.

It was a most joy-filled liturgy involving Sisters, Companions in Mission, faculty, students, and Board Members. Mrs. June Spencer, Principal of Blessed Sacrament School, led the Prayers of the Faithful. Cecelia Heredia, our music teacher and Companion in Mission, provided musical accompaniment. Those who joined with us in this celebration reflected the many and varied connections our Society has had over the years in this region.

There was obvious joy as old friends re-connected after many years, and much time was spent reminiscing as people viewed yearbooks from the past and photos of both past and current FCJ life and ministry. We are very grateful to Sr. Gemma Tucciarone for her initiative in preparing and staffing this popular table.

The evening concluded in a packed Children’s Dining Room where a beautifully arranged reception took place. Many commented on the great beauty of the liturgy and the very enjoyable reception.

We wish to acknowledge with great gratitude everyone who helped us in any way to honor these two special anniversaries. Special thanks to Bartlett Tree Experts for their donation of a tree.