PROVIDENCE

PROVIDENCE PAGES
Vol. 3 No. 19 FALL 2011
Published regularly by the Communications Office of the Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul
Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul
The September Silent Vigil marked two anniversaries — 150th anniversary of the congregation and the 16th year of the vigil. The two
anniversaries underlined a longstanding commitment to addressing both the symptoms and the causes of poverty.

BY CHRISTINE ROSS
The gap between rich and
poor in Canada is widening
at a faster pace than in the
United States.
A Conference Board of Canada
report released in September also
indicates that our nation has the
fourth largest increase in income
inequality among its peers.
For 150 years, the Sisters of
Providence have worked tirelessly to
dig out the roots of poverty. Sixteen
years ago, this mission intensified in
reaction to deep social cuts by the
provincial government.
“I was at the first vigil 16 years ago,”
remarked Sister of Providence Una
Byrne. “We were shocked at the
deep social cuts affecting our most
vulnerable. We felt compelled to act.
Sadly, little has changed. The
government continues to fight the
deficit on the backs of the poor and
the gap between the rich and poor is
widening.”
is politics’ is an overstatement,” the
Senator told a late summer Sister of
Providence gathering, adding that
poverty should be an issue for every
candidate seeking election. “Until
you engage at the level that gets
candidates attention…candidates
won’t respond.”
The Sisters took part in the recent
Faith To End Poverty campaign during
the October provincial election.
With close to 200 supporters among
them, the Sisters launched this sign
blitz campaign during a special
Silent Vigil, marking two anniversaries:
16th anniversary of the vigil
and 150th anniversary of the
congregation.
Jamie Swift helped organize the
province wide campaign. His story
on page 3.
Digging out the roots of
Poverty
2 Digging out the roots of Poverty
Christine Ross
3 Poverty Reduction
Jamie Swift
4 150th Events West & East
West: Sister Rita Gleason
East: Christine Ross
5 Legacy Recognition Project
Covenant Health
6 Fall Gathering West & East
West: Sister Dianne Brennen
East: Sister Sandra Shannon
7 Tapestry Timeline
Kristina Jellema
8 Healing Tree
Christine Ross
9 Say No to Tar Sands
Bridget Doherty
FALL 2011
Providence Pages
10 Liturgy Schedule
11 Changes to Catholic Mass
Albert Dunn
12 Mystery Unfolding
Sister Gayle Desarmia
Sister Frances O’Brien
13- 15 Providence Associates
16 Vocation/Formation News
17 PSC Director retires
Sister Lucy Bethel
18 In Memoriam
Sister Rose Mary Ryan
19 In Memoriam
Sister Joan Wing
20 Contacts/Mission Statement
Poverty is political. Just ask Senator
Hugh Segal. “I don’t think ‘poverty
2

Commitment to Poverty Reduction
150 people gathered with Sisters of Providence at the weekly silent vigil at Kingston City Hall on
September 16 to raise awareness about social justice. It marked the 16th anniversary of the vigil and the
launch of an election sign blitz campaign to end poverty.
BY JAMIE SWIFT
“Together in this vigil we bring
before us injustices affecting
our world…”
The Rt. Rev. Michael Oulton had to
raise his voice above the hum of
traffic in front of City Hall. But
most of the 150 supporters gathered
to mark the sixteenth anniversary
of our Silent Vigil could hear
Kingston’s new Anglican Bishop as
he led us in prayer.
The September 16 gathering was
also part of the ongoing celebration
of 150 years of Sisters of
Providence service in Kingston.
The two anniversaries underlined a
longstanding commitment to
addressing both the symptoms and
causes of poverty in a land of
plenty. As Kingston Senator Hugh
Segal noted in a letter of recognition:
“Your vigil on September 16
reflects in its consistency and the determination
of your Order and its
many supporters to bear witness to
the scourge of poverty and homelessness
that still weakens our city,
our neighborhoods, our province
and country.”
The anniversary vigil was remarkable
for its ecumenical nature. Not
only did Bishop Oulton lead the
prayer. The other faith communities
represented included people from
the United Church, the Kingston
Unitarian Fellowship, the Society of
Friends and of course the Roman
Catholic Archdiocese of Kingston.
Local Lutheran and Presbyterian
congregations participated in the
Faith To End Poverty campaign by
displaying signs reading Let’s Vote for
a Poverty Free Ontario.
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Tara Kainer of the JPIC office distributes
signs with the message Let’s Vote for a
Poverty Free Ontario.
We made a special effort to invite
candidates from the four main political
parties, all of whom stood holding
the lawn signs that became
familiar around town during the recent
campaign.
In 2009 all political parties in the
Ontario Legislature supported a new
Poverty Reduction Act. By passing
this historic legislation unanimously,
the three parties at Queen’s Park
recognized that “a sustained commitment
to work together to develop
strong and healthy children,
youth, adults, families and communities
is required to effectively reduce
poverty.”
Sisters Frances O’Brien and
Sandra Shannon attended the
special Silent Vigil.
Of course, such an Act needs to be
backed up by the political will to put
words into action.
“Thus, we stand in hope,”
concluded Bishop Oulton, reading
the verse recited by the vigil keepers
every Friday.

BY SISTER RITA GLEASON
In addition to the Silent Vigil in
Kingston, outreach to the poor
became an integral part of our
congergational 150th anniversary
celebration in the West as well.
Sisters in Edmonton chose to
volunteer at Marian Centre
(Madonna House Apostolate) on
August 23rd. We joined other
volunteers to prepare a meal that
would be served to the homeless
and needy who came to the door
that day. We were expecting a large
number as it was also the day that
clothing was being offered to those
in need. The clothes were neatly
folded and hung on racks to make it
easier to choose items.
We stopped our work mid morning
for a snack and a hot or cold beverage,
at which time the community
members and volunteers gathered in
a circle for prayer, spiritual reading
and shared reflection. We, the Sisters,
were then given a tour of
Marian Centre and we watched a
video presentation of the spirit and
history of Madonna House in
Combermere. Then it was time to
share a meal together before serving
over 270 guests who came to the
dining room that day.
While the other Sisters and volunteers
helped in the dining room
which was appropriately decorated
with a mural depicting Jesus in the
bread line, I helped in the clothing
room, where I witnessed such wonderful
hospitality and gentleness
from the staff who treated each person
with love and compassion. The
guests all left with grateful hearts
and smiles on their faces.
One of the young women I had the
privilege of helping was still outside
150th Events West & East
Four of the Edmonton Sisters (Pat Amyot, Jeannette Filthaut, Rita
Gleason and Avita Kilar) volunteered at the Marian Centre throughout
the day. They were joined later by the other Sisters (Diane
Brennen and Ellen Murray) for Mass and supper with the members
of the Madonna House Apostolate who service the Marian Centre.
4
when we left. As we were getting
into the car she jokingly asked if she
could come and live with us. She
really was joking as she already has a
place to live, but she’s one of the
“working poor” who can’t afford to
buy all the necessities of life.
Wishing to join us in our 150th
Anniversary celebration, the community
at Marian Centre invited us
to join with them in the Eucharistic
celebration followed by the evening
meal. Following the meal,
Sr. Jeannette
presented the
president, Gerard
LeSage, a
cheque in the
amount of
$1,000.00.
Gerard was so
surprised at our
generosity that
he could hardly
speak. In addition
to the
cheque, we gave
them three turkeys purchased by
Sr. Jeannette, and fresh vegetables
from Sister Avita’s garden.
As we were leaving, we shared
among ourselves our experience
from the day and agreed that it was
a positive community experience of
mutual love, joy and gratitude.
In Kingston, a similar meal was
prepared thanks to a financial
donation from the Sisters of
Providence to the St. Vincent de
Paul Society as an outreach to mark
the 150th anniversary. In a letter of
thanks, Society administration Deb
Greer says a wonderful meal was
enjoyed on September 15th and the
remainder of the funds were
forwarded to the Food Pantry.
She continued, “One of our
participants has stated that feeling
poor is worse than being poor.
Thank you to those who support
our work as we help many feel less
poor. Now it’s time to look less
poor! Thank you, Sisters, for your
kindness and there is no doubt you
are making a positive difference in
the community, especially during
these difficult times.”

REPRINTED HERE WITH PERMISSION
COVENANT HEALTH
Several Sisters of Providence
including two members of
Leadership, Sisters Una Byrne
and Sandra Shannons, attended the
Catholic Sisters’ Legacy Recognition
Project held in September to
recognize Catholic Sisters for
their historical contribution to
public life in Alberta over
the past 150 years.
A new addition to the
Alberta Legislature recognizes
the courageous and intrepid
religious women who helped to
found the province, providing
health care, education and social
services to pioneer communities.
A bronze monument unveiled
September 28th honours all the
congregations of Sisters who
served across the province and
celebrates their legacy of care
and compassion carried on by
others today.
“This monument serves as a powerful
tribute to the impact the Catholic
Sisters have had on so many lives in
our province, including my own. As
a young child, I experienced the care
and compassion of the Catholic Sisters
firsthand, and this is a fitting
way to honour their service, dedication,
and care to countless Albertans,”
said Premier Ed Stelmach.
The Catholic Sisters’ Legacy
Recognition Project is being led by
Covenant Health in collaboration
with the Catholic community. The
Legacy Recognition Project
Ten Sisters of Providence were among the 180 Sisters
who attended the Catholic Sisters’ Legacy Recognition
Project in Albera. SP’s from Kingston and Alberta stand
beneath the 10 foot statue called Service Through Christ
monument was funded by donations
from various organizations and
individuals.
“They taught school, fed the hungry,
visited the distraught, housed
orphans and tended the sick. These
5
were no small tasks when you
consider how little they had and
how primitive conditions were,”
says Gordon Self, Executive Sponsor
of the Catholic Sisters’ Legacy
Recognition Project.
Over 70 orders of Sisters have
served in Alberta in the past
150 years, including the Sisters
of Providence, Kingston, who
first arrived in Alberta in 1908,
to open Providence Hospital in
Daysland. The first were three
Sisters of Charity of Montreal
(Grey Nuns) who arrived in
Lac St. Anne, September 24,
1859.
Local artist Herman Poulin
from St. Paul, Alberta was
commissioned to create the
Catholic Sisters’ Legacy
Recognition monument, Service
Through Christ. For Poulin, the
project brought him back to his
childhood and stirred feelings of
gratitude.
“To work on the Sisters’ project is
an honour. It is full circle for me.”
says Herman. “In my primary
school years, it was the Sisters who
helped me discover my talent as a
young artist. They called it a gift.
Today, it is my turn to honour and
respect my mentors.”
The 10 ft bronze statue of a Sister
holding a piece of stained glass
stands on a pedestal engraved with
the names of the religious orders of
Sisters who served in Alberta. The
bronze figure moves through a
foundation pillar
and incorporates
a
crucifix
around
her neck,
which
Poulin
defines as the
source of her inner
strength and purpose.
“Her movement exudes service”
says Poulin. The figure in traditional
dress strides forward, one heel up.
“The flow of her long dress and her
apron symbolize many tasks to do.”

BY DIANNE BRENNEN
West
From the opening words of
General Superior Sister
Sandra Shannon to the final
group hug, the Western Fall Gathering
was a time for all of the Sisters
to unpack the new directional
statements of the Chapter held last
April. Reminiscing of the prechapter,
the chapter itself and now
the movement forward with our two
statements showed us how much we
have grown as a group. This brought
hope for the future.
Sisters gather at the Western Fall Gathering
in late September.
During the September 29th to
October 1st gathering, we were also
brought up to date on other key
events including plans for renovations
at Providence Motherhouse in
Kingston, an update on negotiations
with regard to Rosary Hall and
Covenant Health, and an update on
any Sisters in the east who had been
ill.
Unfortunately the Associates who
planned to attend the Fall Gathering
were unable to show up for supper
and the opening on Thursday
evening.
Realizing that the number of Sisters
in the West are now down to a little
more than a handful, it was decided
by the group that this would be the
last Western Fall Gathering. It just
makes more sense for the Sisters
here to go East.
East
Sr. Sandra Shannon, General Superior,
offered the opening address at
the Eastern Fall Gathering.
An excerpt appears here.
Fall Gathering
“Traditionally there is some reflection
given at the opening of the Fall
Gathering. I struggled with “What
will I share.” Well the word LOVE
kept popping up here and there.
Last Sunday the readings – You shall
6
love the Lord your God with all
your heart, etc.; You shall love your
neighbor, etc. Monday’s Prayer after
Communion – “May the new life
you give us increase our love and
keep us in the joy of your kingdom.”
Tuesday – Father Gazeley’s
homily about doing little things for
one another in love. Directional
Statement I says “being educated in
love by prayer (St. Vincent).”
So I thought I would go with the
theme of LOVE. St. John, apparently,
every time he was asked to
address the early church, would
stand up and say “Love one another”
and sit down. Now if I were
St. John, I’d stop now but since I’m
not, I’ll say a little more.
Like St. John, I say “Love one another.”
About a month ago while attending
the unveiling of the statue
of a sister and while at the Mass
celebrating the Legacy of the Sisters
in Alberta, I reflected not only about
our present Sisters and Associates
and what you are doing to bring
about the reign of God in our time
but also about those who have gone
before us, our ancestors. Those
Sisters who have left us the beautiful
legacy we have – our congregation,
the Associate Program and most
importantly our Mission – the
reason we exist and the reason for
which we continue to strive to exist.
Walking into the light we continue
to love the Gospel and bring its
message into our reality. Thus the
importance of our Directional
Statements. They are the road maps
which tell us with whom and in
what direction we are to place our
love and how we are to live out our
love.
Participants at Eastern Fall Gathering.
Sr. Sandra Shannon, General Superior, gives
the opening address.

BY KRISTINA JELLEMA/
PROVIDENCE CARE
In celebration of the 150th
anniversary of Providence
Care, two volunteers have taken
the initiative to create five commemorative
quilts.
One will be gifted to the Sisters of
Providence of St. Vincent de Paul
during a special Mass at Providence
Manor in late November. The
others will be given to PC’s Mental
Health Services, Providence Manor
and St. Mary’s of the Lake Hospital.
Each of these four quilts visually
capture and chronicle the buildings’
progression over time.
The fifth and final quilt created the
opportunity for Providence Care
staff to actively participate in marking
this anniversary year. Staff,
patients, clients and residents were
encouraged to collaborate with
others to complete a square
representing their department or
area. This team effort resulted in 96
eclectic and creative squares
highlighting their dedication to
Providence Care’s mission, vision
and values.
Fran Cooney, Housekeeping Service
Manager for Providence Care,
Mental Health Services, and her
long-time friend, Linda Miller,
Tapestry Timeline
7
offered their quilting skills and time
to this project. At a Providence Care
staff forum in late 2010, staff were
encouraged to suggest ideas on how
they would like to celebrate
Photo: Jenn Goodwin
A Providence Care staff member and her long-time friend have created five quilts to
celebrate Providence Care’s 150th Anniversary. One of these quilts will be gifted to
the Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul later at a special event November 23.
Providence Care’s 150th anniversary.
Fran immediately expressed interest
in creating a commemorative quilt.
After developing the idea, and
speaking with Linda, the quilter for
the project, the pair agreed to
create five commemorative quilts.
Just nine months later, the set of
expressive quilts was completed.
“We are very excited to present the
quilt to the Sisters of Providence
and see their reaction,” said Fran.
“The hundreds of hours of time
put into completing these quilts will
be worth it.”
The quilt for the Sisters of
Providence of St. Vincent de Paul
will be unveiled on Wednesday,
November 23, at 2 p.m. at
Providence Care’s special
anniversary service to be held at
Our Mother of Sorrows Chapel at
Providence Manor.
The remaining four quilts will be
presented at staff forums during
Founder’s Week in December.

Healing Tree
BY CHRISTINE ROSS
Nancy Stevens is trained
in fine arts and
photography — gifts she
repeatedly shares with Sisters in her
care on the infirmary wing of
Providence Motherhouse. Her latest
project now hangs on display by the
nursing station on Marian II.
Called the Healing Tree, the large
painted tree features 18 leaves; one
for each Sister on Marian II. At the
base of the trunk, a string holds the
prayer petitions and special intentions
written on leaves by both
Sisters and staff.
Every Sister on Marian II created
the large art piece including leaf
cutting and painting.
Some of the intentions ask for
prayers for specific events or people.
Others simply hold one name.
Nancy wrote her own intention,
revealing her trademark sense of
humour. It reads, “Special intention
for Nancy to find love someday.”
She stressed the need for laughter
among this close knit group of
Sisters and staff on the second
Sister Irene MacDonell and Nancy Stevens at the Healing Tree shortly after it was displayed
in August. A plaque hangs beside the tree that reads in part, Trees have been
looked upon as a source of wisdom and healing. We hope that our Healing Tree here
at the Motherhouse enhances the mission of Providence and helps to make visible the
compassionate presence of God.
floor.
“We’ve experienced the loss of
some of our dear Sisters this year
and others are gravely ill,” says
Nancy.
Accompanying a Sister to a hospital
appointment, Nancy was impressed
by a similar healing tree blooming in
the lobby. Within weeks, Nancy
organized her crafty group and
8
adapted the tree to become more
interactive.
“The activities on this floor have
become more non-active with our
aging Sisters,” says Nancy. “This tree
doesn’t just hang on the wall, it
invites Sisters to visit and reflect.”
“I think the healing tree is a grand
idea,” says Sister Peggy Flanagan
who knows all too well the power of
Sister Loretto Boland, a gifted artist, paints one of
the 18 leaves.
prayers and special intentions. Sr.
Peggy is currently receiving
chemotherapy for recurrent cancer.
“I plan to add a teal coloured leaf to
the healing tree – teal is the colour
for ovarian cancer survivors. I am
just so very edified by the dedication
of our staff. You help to keep us
true to our motto, Trust in
Providence and walk in hope.

NDP candidate Mary Rita Holland
answers questions from Sister Anna
Moran.
The other three candidates wait their
turn to speak l to r: Liberal John
Gerretsen, Green Robert Kiley and
Conservative Rodger James.
Election candidates from the
four major provincial political
parties spoke to a group of
Sisters of Providence before the
October 6th election. They
fielded questions about healthcare
and disease prevention,
poverty and home care for
seniors. The candidates also
addressed affordable housing,
green energy and education.
BY BRIDGET DOHERTY
ACanadian company plans to
build a pipeline from
Alberta’s Tar Sands to
Texas. If approved by both the
Canadian and American governments,
the pipeline would transport
diluted bitumen, a mixture of oil and
sand.
Environmentalists, farmers, and
affected communities are all
concerned that this mixture, which
includes cancer causing benzene and
toxic heavy metals may end up
spilling into ground water thereby
polluting precious drinking water and
aquifers. The company argues that
there is no such risk even though a
pipeline leaked more than one million
gallons of diluted bitumen into
Michigan’s Kalamazoo River in July
2010.
Other concerns include an increase
in the Tar Sands production adding
to the already destructive environmental
and social consequences
experienced in Alberta. This increase
will accelerate climate change causing
more carbon dioxide gases to be
Say No to Tar Sands
released into the earth’s atmosphere.
Instead of reducing our emissions
and protecting God’s creation our
country will be implicit in risking the
future of many generations to come.
Canadians and Americans who care
for the integrity of creation have responded
by arranging protest “sit
ins” where supporters are asked to sit
in acts of peaceful civil disobedience.
A “sit-in” organized by Ottawa
Action took place on Parliament Hill
September 26th.
The JPIC office of the Sisters of
Providence, the Kingston & District
Labour Council and the Ontario Secondary
School Teacher’s Federation
(OSSTF) sponsored a bus to give
Kingstonians an opportunity to
support this day of action. Sisters of
Providence Shirley Morris and Susan
Pye, along with JPIC staff Tara
Kainer and Bridget Doherty
attended. They were joined by Sr.
Maureen Killoran, CND, Ottawa,
Monica Lampton, CND, JPIC Staff
Montreal and Kingston MP Ted Hsu.
Many Sisters supported the day with
prayers.
9
Photos: Tara Kainer
Sisters of Providence Shirley Morris and
Susan Pye attend the Ottawa sit-in.
Two giant syringes with the words “TAR
SANDS, CANADA’S CARBON BOMB”
represent our addiction to oil. It carries the
dire warning that if we don’t act now to
reduce our dependancy on oil, we will
overdose.

Liturgy Schedule
Incarnational Cycle
2011-2012
Building a New World in God’s Steadfast Love
Saturday, November 26 6:30 p.m. Evening Prayer
Sunday, November 27 10:00 a.m. 1st Sunday of Advent
Sunday, December 4 10:00 a.m. 2nd Sunday of Advent
Sunday, December 11 10:00 a.m. 3rd Sunday of Advent
Sunday, December 18 10:00 a.m. 4th Sunday of Advent
Tuesday, December 20 6:30 p.m. Sacrament of Reconciliation
Saturday, December 24 7:00 p.m. Vigil of Christmas
Followed by refreshments
Sunday, December 25 10:00 a.m. Nativity of the Lord
Sunday, January 1 10:00 a.m. Mary, Mother of God
Friday, January 6
Day of Eucharistic Devotion
Sunday, January 8 10:00 a.m. Epiphany of the Lord
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BY ALBERT DUNN
Liturgy - Revisions to Missal
More than 80 Sisters,
Associates, Motherhouse
liturgical ministers and
staff gathered on Tuesday, October
4 for an information session regarding
the coming revision of the
Roman Missal (the book of rites
used for Mass and other liturgies
such as Good Friday) and its
accompanying General Instruction,
the document explaining the
Missal’s practical implementation.
The presentation was given by
Fr. John Hibbard and sponsored by
the Congregational Liturgy Committee.
Fr. Hibbard is chair of both the
Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission
and the National Council for
Liturgy, a committee of the
Canadian Conference of Catholic
Bishops. He is also a past director of
the National Liturgy Office.
A revised edition of the Roman
Missal was issued by the Holy See
(Rome) in 2002. The English
translation of Roman Missal has
been completed. This revised
Roman Missal will introduce a new
Fr. John Hibbard reviews the upcoming
revisions to the Roman Missal.
translation of the Mass for all
English-speaking Catholics throughout
the world and revised directions
for celebration. This will affect the
spoken prayers and sung parts of
the Mass.
Fr. Hibbard first reviewed the
history of the revision process,
moving on to such matters such as
translation principles, scriptural
references and ritual language, all of
which have had considerable
influence on the final texts.
Sr. Frances O’Brien expressed
appreciation on behalf of all
present, noting that times of
transition can challenge us.
She said that hopefully
Fr. Hibbard’s thoughtful
presentation will help us
all through this challenging
time.
The Third Edition of the
Roman Missal will be implemented
on the First Sunday of Advent,
November 27, 2011. Further
information and resources
are available on the website
of the Archidiocese of Kingston.
www.romancatholic.kingston.on.ca
Season’s Greetings
2011
The 2011 Christmas greeting card.
Cover art by Sr. Margaret Mary Lines.
January 1973.
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BY SISTERS GAYLE DESARMIA AND
FRANCES O’BRIEN
Gayle Desarmia and
Frances O’Brien had the
privilege of participating
in the annual assembly of the
Leadership Conference of Women
Religious being held in Garden
Grove, California from August 9-12.
The theme of the assembly was
“Mystery Unfolding: Religious Life
for the World”.
The morning that the conference
opened we had opportunity to visit
the exhibit, “Women & Spirit:
Catholic Sisters in America” which
illustrates how sisters played a vital
role in shaping American life from
the earliest days right up to the
present. This exhibit has been
travelling across the United States
for a couple of years.
One of the keynote speakers,
Barbara E. Reid, OP, presented a
biblical reflection entitled
“Embodying Holy Mystery” in
which she addressed the mystery of
God revealed in Creation, the
mystery of God beyond gender and
the mystery of death as birth pangs
of hope. While it appears that
religious life as we know it is dying,
she challenged us to be hopeful and
joy-filled for what
is in the process of
being birthed by
Holy Mystery.
Maricarmen
Bracamontes, OSB
after reviewing the
signs of the times,
challenged women
religious to live
with a profound
faith that will bring
forth new life.
Over the course of
the three days we
engaged in a contemplative process
and conversation. We sat
together in silence discovering what
God is calling forth for religious life
today. The work is God’s and we are
available for it.
In the presidential address Mary
Hughes, OP, addressed the hurt that
women religious in the United States
Mystery Unfolding
experienced because of the
Doctrinal Assessment by the
Congregation for the Doctrine of
the Faith and the Apostolic
Visitation by the Congregation for
Institutes of
Consecrated Life
and Societies of
Apostolic Life
(CICLSAL). She
said that from
these experiences
we have learned
to forgive those
who brought
about the suffering.
Forgiveness
requires us to
abandon our right
to resentment,
being agents of reconciliation, letting
go of negative attachment to
hurt.
One highlight of our time in
Garden Grove was joining with 38
other Women of Providence in
Collaboration for a meal together.
There was a special session of
sharing by sisters whose
congregations have engaged in
re-founding/revitalizing and
obtained some new ideas for
application to our own reality,
re-casting ourselves from being
workers to being catalysts.
We were personally revitalized by
the positive energy, the hope, the
creativity, the enthusiasm, the
commitment to birthing the new
thing of the 650 congregational
leaders who participated in this
assembly.
The DVDs of the assembly are
available in the Electa Resource
Centre.
Donations always accepted
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BY MARIE MCCARTNEY
AND DIANNE DUTCHER
Our Providence Associates
Annual General Meeting
was held at Providence
Spirituality Centre on September 30,
2011.
Prior to the 6:30 p.m. Call to Order
and Welcome, our Associates and
Sisters posed for a group
photo taken on the PSC
staircase.
Mercy, who gave a presentation on
Communal Discernment. We should
be listening, understanding (seeking),
remembering (dreaming) and
then acting (make a choice). This
was a wonderful presentation and
many of us will be seeking out the
DVD “Of Gods and Men” to
further our knowledge of communal
discernment.
Associates
was unanimously accepted by everyone
present. Sister Brenda gave us
instructions on the “World Café”
and we shared ideas on how we
could bring this challenging Mission
Statement to life when we return to
our groups.
family, friends, Associates and Sisters.
Sheila said she felt accepted, inspired
and united by the charism of
the Sisters of Providence. She can
now live out this charism of compassionate
service, trusting in Providence
and walking in Hope.
Our evening began with a
beautiful prayer, “A Time
of Happy Transition”
(adapted from a Joyce Rupp
poem) and prepared by the
Catalpa Group. What a
wonderful way to invite the
Inquirers to Candidacy!
Sister Gayle Desarmia, council
Liaison, welcomed Doris Lomboy
and gave her a small token to mark
this important occasion. Barbara
Baker accepted the token on behalf
of Jane Hayes, who was unable to
attend.
Barbara Baker introduced our facilitator
Brenda Peddigrew, Sister of
On Saturday morning the AGEM
began with the inspirational Mantra,
“Open to You” by Joyce Rupp and a
prayer prepared by the Rainbow
Group. Sister Brenda Peddigrew
worked with all present and helped
us to understand that we would
“grow into” our Mission Statement.
The Associate Mission Statement
The Chapel of Mary Mother of
Compassion was a beautiful setting
for the Commitment Ceremony of
Sheila LaRush as she made her commitment
as a Providence Associate
of the Sisters of Providence of St.
Vincent de Paul. The ceremony was
celebrated within the Liturgy of the
Hours. Sheila was surrounded by
Photo: Joe Demedeiros
Sheila LaRush makes her Commitment
as a Providence Associate.
Photo: Joe Demedeiros
Participants at the AGEM.
l to r: Elizabeth Cowperthwaite,
Barbara Baker, Dianne Dutcher and
Sr. Judith Lee
13

BY SISTER CATHERINE CANNON
NACAR Workshop on the Ins and Outs of
Associate Formation
Sister Catherine Cannon, Associates
Barbara Baker and Cathy Bryan
attended the NACAR Professional
Development Workshop for Associate
Directors held June 10-12, 2011,
in the Providence Spirituality Centre,
Kingston, Ontario. Facilitators
were Carol Gariano and Mary Jo
Mersmann.
News from Camrose
Feb. 14, 2011 — A mid-winter bake
sale for Peruvian Missions was
organized by Providence Associates
with assistance of the C.W.L. and
St. Mary’s Hospital Auxiliary and
staff. Sr. Bernadine Bokenfohr and
Debbie Muise spoke to these
groups about mission and its needs.
The amount raised was $5480.00.
Funds were used to build the emergency
evacuation stairs
needed at the school.
Associates
Back row l - r: Audrey Heck, Miriam Hanoski , Connie Prost, Sr. Bernadine
Bokenfohr Front Row l - r: Kathy Liebel, Sr. Rose Marie Bokenfohr, Debbie
Muise, Bernice Schlunt-Macfarlane
NACAR workshop participants.
Topics included: Inquiry and Application
Process, Interviewing, Ritual
of Welcome and Commitment,
Formation and Initial Integration,
Discernment, and Withdrawal and
Termination. This excellent
workshop was well worth the time.
April 1, 2011 — Sister
Rose Marie Bokenfohr
missionary Sister from
Peru, spoke to the Associates
about the Mission
and thanked them
for their donation. Part
of the bake sale funds
were given to Sr. Rose
Marie who operates a health clinic
for the sick and those needing
assistance with medications.
14
June 6, 2011— Sister Patricia Amyot
facilitated a Retreat for the
Associates with a focus on Joyce
Rupp’s book “Cup of Life”. The
various forms of prayer used by Sr.
Pat during the prayer periods were
much appreciated.
Associate Pat Niehaus provided
hospitality in her beautiful Camrose
home. A delicious lunch was
enjoyed by all.
The day left everyone spiritually
renewed and uplifted by the spirit
of the group.

Mission Statement
We,
the Providence
Associates,
are inspired and united by the
Charism, Spirituality, and Mission of
the Sisters of Providence
of St. Vincent de Paul.
Trusting in God’s
Providence, we are
committed to strengthening
our common call to
compassionate service.
In responding to God’s call,
we are present to our family,
neighours and all of
creation through
relationships which
are authentic, trusting,
meaningful, respectful
and creative.
Associates
In Memoriam
BY SR. CATHERINE CANNON
Lorne Willard Hankinson,
dearly beloved husband of
Elsie Hankinson, was called
home to God in Brantford on May
22, 2011 in his 86th year.
Lorne together with his wife Elsie
made their commitment as
Associates of the Sisters
of Providence of St.
Vincent de Paul on
September 10, 1992.
Lorne’s fellow associates
describe him as a
fine Christian gentleman,
conscientious in
all undertakings, generous
and possessing exceptional
leadership skills.
He was a faithful member
of St. Pius X Parish in
Brantford serving for many years as
coordinator of Ministers of the
Word. He organized the St. Vincent
de Paul Society and served as President
of Brant County Particular
Lorne Willard Hankinson
Council of St. Vincent de Paul.
He worked in close contact with the
Sisters of Providence assisting them
in their work with refugee families.
He was awarded the Bishop’s medal
for dedicated service to Parish and
Diocese.
Lorne expressed well his deep faith
in corresponding to the Director
of Providence Associates.
He wrote, “I
will continue in my efforts
to assist those
less fortunate than
myself. I will assist
and support the
refugee families. I will
live and regulate my life
to the best of my ability
in caring for my fellow
human beings.”
May he rest in peace.
15

Vocation / Formation News
There is surely a future hope for
you, and your hope will not be cut off.
— Proverbs 23:18
continuing her discernment with the
help of a spiritual director. Let us
pray for this gifted and highly
educated woman who is attracted to
ministering to the marginalized of
our society.
And the one who was seated on the
throne said, “See, I am making all things
new.” — Rev. 21:5
We can be awake and watchful
for resurrections, for the creative ways that
new life streams even in the midst of
death. — Judy Cannato
BY SISTERS BARBARA THIFFAULT
AND LUCY KEARNEY
During the last several
months we have been in
contact with a mature
young woman from Kitchener,
Ontario who, after doing a search
on the internet, has expressed an
interest in our Congregation. At her
request, she spent two days, June 11
and 12, at the Motherhouse meeting
with Sisters Nancy Wilson, Lucy
Kearney and Barbara Thiffault
because she felt attracted to our
charism and ministries. Because she
is discerning a possible call to
religious life, she wanted to meet
our Sisters to gain more insight into
our lived experience. Since her visit
in June, she has continued to remain
in contact with us on a regular basis.
At the present time she is seriously
Holy Cross Students Visit
Motherhouse
Ten grade 9 to 12 students and two
staff members from the Social
Action Club at Holy Cross Catholic
Secondary School, Kingston visited
the Motherhouse on October 3rd.
Following a short presentation on
our Congregation and an explanation
of the Volunteer Program, the
students visited Marian II in
anticipation of becoming volunteers.
The interaction between the
students and the Sisters has inspired
some of the senior students to
become volunteers at the
Motherhouse.
Inter-Congregational Vocation
Committee
The regular meetings of the Inter-
Congregational Committee have
continued with planning for various
activities. Representatives from the
Committee attended the Algonquin
and Lakeshore Catholic District
School Board system wide Community
Faith Day on October 24th in
Belleville. We provided a display
consistent with and supportive of
Catholic education.
On October 16th three members of
the Committee in response to an
invitation from St. John’s Parish,
Gananoque participated in the
parish retreat. Their presentation on
the “Call to Discipleship” in keeping
with their theme, “Come Follow
Me”, was well received.
Diocesan Joint Vocation
Committee
The insights gained from the collaboration
of the laity, clergy and religious
are invaluable in our efforts to
build a culture of vocation. Among
other activities the Committee is
exploring the possibility of holding
a Vocation Fair in one of the
parishes.
16

BY SISTER LUCY BETHEL
It is in a spirit of gratitude that
we say our farewell to Beverley
McDonald as she retires from
her ministry as Director of
Providence Spirituality Centre for
the past eight years.
We are grateful for Beverley’s:
• Wholehearted commitment to this
ministry of the Sisters of Providence
of Saint Vincent de Paul.
• Faithfulness to the Church and the
people of God.
• Respect for all people and for all
of God’s Creation.
We have seen this in her tireless efforts
and determination to seek out
‘top-notch’ retreat directors and
presenters, committed to issues of
justice and peace and up-to-date on
ecological and environmental issues
of the day.
Beverley has been respectful of and
faithful to the charism and mission
of the Sisters of Providence of
Saint Vincent de Paul and we thank
her.
Beverley’s delightful sense of
humour, her contagious laughter
and her joyful spirit have been gift
for those of us who had the privilege
to work closely with her and a
blessing for all who visited our
Centre.
We wish Beverley well and a “Happy
Retirement! ” We are grateful for her
dedication and leadership during
these past eight years. Beverley will
be greatly missed by all of us.
Beverley McDonald
PSC Director retires
BY CHRISTINE ROSS
Some gifted poets at
Providence Motherhouse are
being recognized for their
creative prose. Poems written by
Anna Moran, a Sister of Providence
and Tara Kainer of the Justice,
Peace and Integrity of Creation
Office, were published in the
Kingston Whig Standard as part of
a poetry writing contest called
In Your Own Words.
Motherhouse Poets
Mystery so mystifies this mind of mine,
Proposing problems of such perplexing kind
That rest within the womb of a war torn world
Awaiting wisdom
— Sr. Anna Moran
Kingston residents were asked to
send short poems (haiku, couplet,
free verse.) Sr. Anna and Tara made
an impression on Poet Laureate
Eric Folsom who selected the
poems for publication.
Sr. Anna began writing poetry only
a decade ago. Tara Kainer pubished
her first book of poetry ealier this
year.
Why are they denied these gestures
beyond the self, symbols
like beacons in the night
— Tara Kainer
17

BY SISTER BARBARA THIFFAULT
Sister Rose Mary Ryan
(Theresa Doris Ryan) was
born on December 17, 1929
in Picton, Ontario, one of nine children
of Jane Gannon and William
Ryan. She was blessed with a twin
sister, Dorothy Sarah, Sister Rose
Anne. She grew up in a very happy
family home which was located outside
the town of Picton. She attended
St. Gregory’s Catholic
Elementary School and Picton High
School for grade nine. She then attended
Notre Dame High School in
Kingston for one year. During the
summers of 1944 and 1945 she
worked at St. Vincent de Paul Hospital
in Brockville where she enjoyed
her experience of working with the
Sisters. She had already met the Sisters
of Providence of St. Vincent de
Paul in Picton when she was in
grade eight at the time of the
Sisters’ arrival there to teach. Sister
Mary Berna (Mary LeSage) had been
her teacher. The Sisters’ spirit of joy
helped her to make her decision to
enter religious life.
She and her twin sister, Dorothy
Sara, Sister Rose Anne, entered the
novitiate of the Sisters of Providence
of St. Vincent de Paul in
Kingston, Ontario, on August 15,
1946. Sister spent many years as
housekeeper and cook in
Maryvale Abbey,
Glen Nevis, St.
Michael’s Convent,
Belleville,
St. Mark’s Convent,
Prescott
and St. John’s
Convent,
Perth. She
spent two years
at St. Joseph’s
Vocational School
in Winnipeg as Assistant
Supervisor of
the boys, a ministry she
enjoyed. In 1969 she graduated with
honours from St. Mary’s School of
Nursing, Montreal as a Registered
Nurse. After four years of general
duty nursing at St. Mary’s Hospital
which were very happy years for her,
she was assigned to Providence
Manor in Kingston as supervisor
In Memoriam
18
and general duty nurse. In 1974 she
went to St. Mary’s of the Lake Hospital,
Kingston to begin and develop
the first Medical Day Hospital Program
in Ontario. She remained there
until August 1986 and then had a
sabbatical year at Galilee in
Arnprior. On her return
from her sabbatical in
1987 she began a
new career with the
Nursing Registry
in Kingston. This
involved doing
private duty nursing
for dying people
in their homes.
This was night work
within the city of
Kingston as well as in
the surrounding area. She
enjoyed this work and felt
privileged to be with the dying and
their families. In 1988 she was asked
to go to Gabriel Home to work with
the young unwed expectant mothers.
Following this ministry she was
asked to work at the Loretta Hospitality
Centre to oversee and help
prepare a hot noon meal for those
in need. Sister Rose Mary remained
in this ministry until ill health necessitated
her withdrawal. She was
called home to her loving God at
Providence Motherhouse, Kingston,
Ontario, on August 18, 2011. Sister
Rose Mary is predeceased by her
parents, her sisters, Loretta Gunn,
Mary and Jean and her brothers,
Thomas, Vincent, Daniel, Leo and
James. Sister is survived by her twin
sister, Sister Rose Anne Ryan of the
Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent
de Paul of Kingston. She will be
fondly remembered by her sister,
relatives, and friends and by the
members of her religious community.
The Mass of Christian Burial,
held in the Chapel of Mary Mother
of Compassion, Providence
Motherhouse on August 22, was
presided over by Friar Edward
Debono, OFM Conv. Msgr. Don
Clement was the homilist.
Sister Rose Mary Ryan
December 17, 1929 —
August 18, 2011

BY SISTER BARBARA THIFFAULT
Joan Wing was born on April 30,
1922 in Gananoque, Ontario,
the youngest of five children of
Elizabeth Corboy and
William J. Wing. She received her
education at St. John’s Separate
School and Gananoque High
School. In 1943 she graduated as a
registered nurse from St. Joseph’s
School of Nursing at Hotel Dieu
Hospital in Kingston. The following
year on August 15th she entered the
novitiate of the Sisters of Providence
of St. Vincent de Paul in
Kingston. At her First Profession
she received the name Sister Mary
Michael.
Following her First Profession in
1946, Sister went to St. Francis Hospital
in Smiths Falls as the Operating
Room Supervisor. In 1953 she did
post graduate studies in Operating
Room Nursing at Jersey City Medical
Centre in Jersey City and took a
course in Operating Room Technique
at the Regina General Hospital
in 1961. From 1959 until 1963
she was at Providence Hospital in
Moose Jaw as the Operating Room
Supervisor. From 1963 to 1982 Sister
Joan was at St. Vincent de Paul
Hospital in Brockville in the same
capacity. The following year she enjoyed
a sabbatical. During her
sabbatical year she lived
at St. Mary’s of the
Lake and took a
course in
Church History
at Queen’s
University. At
the same time
she attended
St. Lawrence
College and
took a course in
interior design
and decorating.
Then in 1984 she became
the Director of
Nursing Service at Providence
Manor and remained in this position
until 1991 when she retired from
nursing. St. Mary’s of the Lake was
her last mission until the Sisters vacated
the residence in April 1998.
During these years she experienced
much tearing down and building,
In Memoriam
19
moving and renovating. For her it
was a wonderful experience to see
the new and modern facilities replace
old and outdated buildings.
During all this time of restructuring
she met many dedicated hospital
staff, medical, clergy and lay
people willing and anxious
to help the Sisters
achieve the goal –
Providence at work
in our lives.
In 1998 Sister Joan
became the care
giver and companion
for her sister,
Mary, who lived in
the country west of
Gananoque. Sister
lived with Mary until
Mary’s death on July 20,
2003. It was at this time that Sister
Joan took up residence at Providence
Motherhouse.
Sister Joan went home to her loving
God very unexpectedly on Tuesday,
August 23, 2011.
Sister Joan is predeceased by her
parents, her brothers, Oliver David
and John William and by her sisters,
Mary Wing and Elizabeth Deir. She
will be fondly remembered by her
nieces, nephews, and friends and by
the members of her religious congregation.
The Mass of Christian
Burial, held in the Chapel of Mary
Mother of Compassion, Providence
Motherhouse on August 26, was
presided over by Friar Ed Debono,
OFM Conv. The homilist was Rev.
Michael Reed.
Sister Joan Wing
April 30, 1922 — August 23, 2011

Providence Pages
Mission Statement
A regular publication of the Sisters of Providence of
St. Vincent de Paul
Editor & Director of Communications: Christine Ross
Editorial Assistant: Mike Hammond
Communications Advisory Committee:
Sr. Sandra Shannon (liaison)
Sr. Barbara Thiffault
Christine Ross
Mike Hammond
Doreen Hoekstra
Special thanks to Proof Readers:
Sisters Anne Hudec
Mary Joan LaFleur
Gayle Desarmia
For questions, comments or
address changes, contact:
Office of Communications
Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul
Providence Motherhouse
Box 427, 1200 Princess Street
Kingston, ON, Canada
K7L 4W4
613-544-4525
E-mail:
communications@providence.ca
Web site:
www.providence.ca
We, the Sisters of
Providence of St.
Vincent de Paul, are an
apostolic congregation of vowed
women religious called to be
channels of God’s Providence in the
world through compassionate
service in response to the needs of
the times. Sharing our individual
giftedness, we carry out diverse
ministries in a spirit of humility,
simplicity and charity in collaboration
with others to bring about the
reign of God.
Our heritage is rooted in the
creativity and spirituality of Vincent
de Paul and Louise de Marillac, in the
willingness of Emilie Gamelin to risk
and trust in Providence, in the
responsiveness of the Montreal
Sisters of Providence to the call of
Bishop E.J. Horan, as well as in the
courage and pioneer spirit of Mother
Mary Edward McKinley and the
original members of the Kingston
community.
Impelled by the compassionate love
of Jesus and Mary, we seek to
empower others, especially the poor
and oppressed, to achieve a quality of
life in keeping with their human
dignity. We strive to be prophetic
leaders in our church and in society
through the promotion of structures
and relationships of equality and
mutuality and through attitudes and
actions for justice and peace.
Strengthened by prayer, we are
bonded in unity and love through
our corporate mission. Serving with
compassion, trusting in Providence,
we walk in hope.
1861 - 2011
20