On Saturday, October 28th, a large bus pulled onto our property in West Park, NY and many Missionary Sisters stepped out to recall and share memories of so many sisters who have gone before us but especially those who have died since 2015.

What a privilege to assist at Mass in our International Formation Chapel celebrated by our former student Rev. Michael Salerno, who shared his special memories of our sisters and all they did for him and his family. We recalled the names of so many of our sisters buried there [in West Park] during the Prayers of the Faithful. Following our Mass, we proceeded to a spectacular luncheon.

The dining room had been transformed into a Fall/Halloween/Thanksgiving center. Sisters Aloysia and Lorene with the help of Sisters Marisel, Joseane and Lucia prepared goodie bags for each of us, and decorations all around. The wonderful food was provided by Sal’s Caterers of Highland, NY and the choices were abundant and amazing.

No one was forgotten. We were invited to take food for those who could not attend. (I assure you that was most appreciated!)

After our feasting and animated sharing, we collected our goodies and headed back to our cemetery overlooking the Hudson River. How many memories floated back as we recalled years spend with our sisters now interred in their final resting places. What a perfect preparation for November, the month of the Holy Souls. What a meaningful, memorable day – the glorious sun shining down on us as we gave thanks for those who went before us. ~ submitted by Sr. Mary Ann Hawes, MSC