"Sisters of Providence are Catholic women of faith who respond to the needs of the poor and vulnerable through education, parish ministry, health care, community service and support, housing, prison ministry, pastoral care, spiritual direction and retreats, and foreign missions" (from their vocation brochure).  The Sisters of Providence have also been great friends of St. James Cathedral over the years.  It was a privilege to host their Jubilee celebration on July 19, 2008.  Special thanks to the Sisters of Providence and Felma Cerezo, SP, for photos of the celebration.


Sister Kathryn Rutan, SP, General Superior, and Sister Margaret Botch, SP, Provincial Superior, join in the entrance procession.


The ten jubilarians.  Celebrating 60 years of religious life:  Sister Mary Clare Boland, Sister Dolores Ellwart, Sister Alice St. Hilaire, Sister Julie Ziocchi.  Celebrating 50 years:  Sister Susanne Hartung, Sister Patricia Hauser, Sister Charlene Hudon, Sister Pauline Lemaire, Sister Therese Multz.  Celebrating 25 years:  Sister Gabrielle Nguyen.


Candles adorned with flowers and ribbons for each jubilarian.


We were especially privileged to welcome our beloved retired Archbishop Raymond Hunthausen to the celebration.  Archbishop Hunthausen offered a special blessing during the Mass, at which Father Ryan presided.


Sister Kathryn Rutan offers a reflection.


The jubilarians encircle the altar for the renewal of their vows.  "I, wishing to renew my consecration to God and to become the servant of the poor, willingly make anew to God the perpetual vows of chastity, poverty and obedience, under the authority of the Superior General and according to the Constitutions of the Congregation of the Sisters of Providence."


The Sisters of Providence Choir, under the direction of Michele Herman, assisted by Chauncey Boyle, SP.


Archbishop Hunthausen visits with old friends at the reception following the Mass.