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Celebrating the Feast Day of Saint Jeanne Jugan

By September 5, 2024No Comments

On August 30th, we came together in joyful celebration of the feast day of Saint Jeanne Jugan, our beloved foundress. It’s a day that fills our hearts with gratitude and reverence, as we honor the remarkable life and legacy of the woman who began it all: Saint Jeanne Jugan.

 

Saint Jeanne Jugan founded the Little Sisters of the Poor in 1839 with a profound mission to care for the elderly poor. Her journey began in Cancale Brittany, France, where she dedicated her life to serving the most vulnerable among us. Through her unwavering faith and compassion, she established a worldwide community of Little Sisters, each dedicated to continuing her work of love and service.

 

In the spirit of Saint Jeanne Jugan’s humble and loving heart, we’ve celebrated her feast day throughout the month with a series of heartfelt gestures. Earlier this month, the Sisters set up an education station and presentation about Jeanne Jugan, various select employees beautifully dressed as Jeanne Jugan and began a series of visits to our Residents and Staff throughout the month. They carried with them prayer cards, keychains, and, on their final visit, medal accompanied by French treats and inspiring quotes from Saint Jeanne Jugan herself. These tokens were more than just gifts; they were a reminder of her enduring presence and the values she championed.

Her feast day celebration began with a beautiful Mass in our chapel. Surrounded by priests, Residents, Friends, and Staff, we gathered to honor Saint Jeanne Jugan’s memory. The atmosphere was filled with reverence and joy as we celebrated the legacy of a woman who transformed the lives of so many. Following the Mass, our dear volunteer, Ginger Hamilton, renewed her Association of Jeanne Jugan vows in a touching ceremony that brought tears to many eyes.

A particularly moving part of the day was the opportunity to be blessed by a relic of Saint Jeanne Jugan. Father Damien, our chaplain, facilitated this sacred moment, allowing each person to touch the base of the relic and receive a blessing. It was a profound experience, deeply connecting us to the spirit of our foundress.

After the blessing, we came together for a festive feast day meal. Residents and Employees shared a delicious meal, and the afternoon was rounded off with a delightful cake. The joy and camaraderie of this meal were palpable, a testament to the sense of family and community that Saint Jeanne Jugan envisioned.

Later, the celebrations continued with a spirited game of bingo in the auditorium, complete with a special visit from Jeanne Jugan herself. This final event was a joyful culmination of a day dedicated to celebrating and reflecting on the extraordinary life and mission of our foundress.

As we reflect on this special day, we are deeply grateful for Saint Jeanne Jugan and the legacy she left behind. Her life was a testament to the power of faith, compassion, and selfless service.

We are honored to carry forward her mission, inspired by her example and supported by the love and unity that she fostered.

May the spirit of Saint Jeanne Jugan continue to guide and inspire us all, today and always.

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