Golden Jubilee Celebration - Anne McGrath, RSCJ,  20th August, 2006

Though I have experienced the joy of other Jubilarians, I was not prepared for what this day brought.  Some days before, I received a card from a friend, a Sister of Mercy, with these words from Catherine McAuley: 

When we first make our vows, it is not surprising if we feel anxious and pronounce them in a timid voice, being as yet unacquainted with the full extent of God’s infinite goodness to whom we engage ourselves forever. But when we renew them it can be with the tone of joy and confidence which the experience of God’s increasing mercies inspires.  (C. McAuley Oct 25 1837) 

This was very true for me. Looking back fifty years to my youthful commitment and knowing God’s love and compassion in the intervening years, I felt that I could truly say

            For what has been – Thanks
            For what will be – Yes!

In this I was encouraged by the presence of about twenty-five RSCJ, especially those from Karlaminda who have lived the life for many years, by the gathering of forty-nine of my immediate family, by a group of good friends, the staff from the Provincial Office.  When I told someone next day I had counted forty-nine family members, she pointed out that I made fifty, one for each of the years I was celebrating!  This large number of family members, ranging in age from nearly eighty to eight weeks, was a particular joy.

In the sanctuary of the chapel at Kincoppal-Rose Bay were two beautiful arrangements of flowers, gifts from the Sacré Coeur Association and the Chapel Society.  Monsignor Tony Doherty led a moving Eucharistic liturgy, opening the readings with particular relevance for the occasion, particularly John 1: 35-39 and Ephesians 3:14-21.

Then followed a most joyful celebration in the Hughes Centre, where RSCJ, family and friends mingled and then gathered round the Jubilee cake for some speeches.  Joan Pender proposed a toast and Paddy McGrath, my eldest brother’s eldest son, spoke on behalf of the family.  I decided that I would like to share these with you as they were full of meaning, love and some human touches!  My own response was one of gratitude and acknowledgement of all who had made the occasion such a happy one.  This included my community, Diana and Lynette, Roslynn, Genelle and Helen from the Provincial Office, Eileen Bucher from Kerever Park who made the magnificent cake, members of the Province who had sent such warm greetings, all who attended with special mention of those who had travelled long distances.