Celebrating 2023 CDP Jubilarians
Amidst the spirit of our General Assembly, joyous occasions unfolded as we came together to celebrate our beloved CDP Jubilarians. These remarkable women dedicated their lives totally to furthering the mission of Jesus. With hearts full of gratitude, we honored their 820 combined years of selfless devotion.
Honoring 820 Years of Service with a Jubilee Mass:
On Sunday, June 18th, our Jubilarians were surrounded by joy and gratitude as we commemorated their milestone anniversaries with a Jubilarian Mass in Sacred Heart Conventual Chapel at Our Lady of the Lake University. Father Tom Ovalle, OMI served as Presider.
Celebrating 75 Years: Sister Ramona Bezner† & Sister Florentine Mazurkiewicz; 70 Years: Sister Bernie Galvin, Sister Maria Cristina Ruelas, Sister Annalee Prather, & Sister Joyce Jilek; 60 Years: Sister Anne Michele Berry, Sister Jacqualine Ann Kingsbury, Sister Louise Miksch†, Sister Margit Mária Nagy, & Sister Ann Petrus; 50 Years: Sister Catherine Parent; 40 Years: Sister Elsa Garcia
Each Jubilarian has embarked on her unique journey of service, responding to both an individual call from God and communal discerning. Their dedication has touched countless lives, leaving an indelible impact on the communities they served. With deep gratitude, we celebrate our Jubilarians for their dedication and witness throughout the years. Their legacies are a testament to their unwavering faith and commitment to God’s work.
Sister Florentine Mazurkiewicz, with her distinguished career as an educator and dedicated finance officer for the Congregation, has left an indelible impact on countless lives. Her passion for education has nurtured young minds and instilled a love for learning that will endure for generations.
“You were my fifth-grade teacher at St. Pius V Catholic School in Pasadena TX. I remember you as the kindest, gentlest, most caring person I have ever met. I am a teacher in Pasadena. I actually taught 5th grade for many years, but now I teach 7th grade math. You had a huge impact on my life!”” – Former student of Sister Florentine
Sister Bernie Galvin, celebrated for her dedicated service to marginalized communities, has tirelessly advocated for justice and equality. Her unwavering commitment to the most vulnerable among us has been a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change.
“It’s not easy to take a stand against your fellow Committee members, but Galvin’s long commitment to housing homeless people—she founded Religious Witness with Homeless People—compelled her struggle to save 150 Otis [Building] for the very poor.” – Read the full article here.
Sister Anne Michele Berry, known for her diverse and impactful ministry, has touched the lives of many through her compassionate outreach. From empowering youth to supporting those in need, her profound dedication to serving others has transformed countless lives and communities.
“For the past 60 years Sister Anne Michele Berry, CDP has been about spreading the good news of God’ Providential love through a variety of ministries including education, spiritual direction and retreat ministry, vocational discernment, and Congregational [leadership]. She retired from 25 years of teaching young children and providing family support services. She brings a listening ear and caring heart to everyone she meets.” -PROSO facilitator notes
While we only spotlight three, each of these Jubilarians has made a profound and lasting impact, embodying the values of the Congregation and leaving a legacy of love and service for us all to follow. Read more about our Jubilarians in the Spring 2023 issue of our Living Providence newsletter.
A Joyous Jubilee Banquet:
On Thursday, June 22nd, the Congregation came together to honor our Jubilarians with a jubilee banquet. After a heartwarming Mass, the Sisters gathered for a celebratory meal, cherishing the opportunity to capture memories in photographs alongside the Jubilarians. As the evening progressed, we were moved by heartfelt tributes that paid tribute to each Jubilarian’s remarkable legacy. Laughter, love, and the presence of the Holy Spirit filled the air, making the night festive.
In our photo gallery below, are glimpses of the Jubilee Mass and Banquet, capturing the joy and camaraderie shared by all. These images serve as a testament to the deep bonds of sisterhood and the gratitude we have for the Jubilarians’ lifelong commitment to serving God and His people.
Join us in commemorating the incredible achievements of our Jubilarian Sisters and the blessings they have bestowed upon our Congregation. Together, let us express our profound gratitude for their enduring commitment to God’s work and their unwavering dedication to serving others. Their selfless service serves as an inspiration for all of us to follow in their footsteps, spreading love, compassion, and hope in our own lives.
