Sr Micheline's O’Donnell's Golden Jubilee Celebration

Good morning!

Greetings once again from the Woman of the Untold Story! Today I have anchored my body and adjusted my antennae to a different corner of our universe. It is centred on a very vibrant community in Scotland and the actual dwelling place of this community is called Airdrie.

The Sisters of Charity there are carrying out an extensive mission both in Saint Andrew’s Hospice, as well as in the surrounding areas. Today, however, my antennae will focus on one of these sisters who will be celebrating her Golden Jubilee. Her name is Sr. Micheline O’ Donnell.

November 22nd dawned crisp and chilly though the sun peaked out at the glistening snow on the hilltops as we made our way towards the Convent that was abuzz with all sorts of activity. The results of this activity were soon apparent when we beheld the inside decked out in gold with flowers, balloons and plants adorning every crevice.

The coming and going included five Sisters who travelled by air from Hackney, London, plus two who came from Ireland. This wonderful festive display extended to the local Parish church of St. Andrew’s where the Liturgy of the Eucharist was to take place. As the folk young and old kept pouring into the church, the chill in the outside air was soon replaced by the warmth and hospitality given to each person as they found their seats.

The liturgy led by the pastor, Fr. Raymond Breslin, was very touching. Songs were well chosen and sung by the congregation with great gusto as Scottish people are wont to do. The wonderful voices of young and old resounded throughout the whole church and beyond.

Father’s homily though off the cuff, as he said himself, was both meaningful and inspiring. He spoke of Micheline as being a legend in Airdrie and that when she was missioned by her RSC Congregation to Africa in 1986, this congregation in Airdrie felt missioned as well. That missioning translated not only into prayerful support but into material support as well, and that support continued for the 37 years of her ministry in health care and in leadership where she “felt so happy to be serving God’s poor”. She called these folk in the parish “mission partners”.

After the Liturgy the Parish Hall, also beautifully decorated by volunteers, awaited us. It was soon filled to capacity by family and friends. Tribute upon tribute poured out onto Micheline as she was surrounded by loved ones, including many children, grand-nieces and grand-nephews who just loved their Aunt Miche and who were ready and able to do her bidding at a moment’s notice! Noteworthy was the huge number of children milling about and playing together with abandon.

Some felt comfortable taking up the mike and doing their own rendition of Elvis or whomever came to mind.

A picture was also taken of Micheline and her friends with whom she trained and who kept up acquaintance with her all these years. The joy of this whole event was truly palpable and I could not help reminding myself of a quote I once heard: