Celebrating 150 Years!
On August 30, the Feast of Jeanne Jugan, The Most Reverend Alberto Rojas (Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago) celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving in honor of the 150th Anniversary of the Little Sisters’ arrival in the US, in our Chapel. Fr. Tim Fairman (Pastor) and Fr. Matt Jameson (Parochial Vicar) of St. Theresa Parish, Fr. David Ryan (Pastor) of St. Francis de Sales Parish, Fr. Paul Schneider OFM Conv., Fr. Damien Graziano (Chaplain) of St. Joseph’s Home and Fr. Tom Rzepiela (Pastor Emeritus) of St. Thomas of Villanova Parish concelebrated, along with Deacon Lou Ricco of St. Theresa Parish.
The Knight of Columbus stood as Honor Guards as Bishop Rojas and the clergy processed in. A full house of Residents, Little Sisters, friends and relatives were in attendance at this closing of our sesquicentennial year. During his homily, Bishop Rojas spoke of the humble love of Jeanne Jugan and her dedication to the elderly poor. He praised the Little Sisters for carrying on that devotion of service. At the end of Mass, Bishop Rojas blessed us with the relic of Jeanne Jugan. The relic was then available for veneration.
Continuing the celebration after Mass, all were invited to the dining room for a meal ‘fit for a king’. An impromptu ‘smart mob’ entertained us with a parade and signs.
With God’s Grace and the help of our friends, we look forward to continuing our ministry of caring for the elderly well into the next 150 years.
Celebrating 150 Years!