Jubilees in the Eastern Region
Joanne Rusch, CSJP - 70 years, Helen Paul Starr, CSJP - 75 years, Josie Pate, CSJP - 60 years, Mary Kuiken, CSJP - 70 years, not present Carol Adams, CSJP - 60 years
Finally, on September 10, the Eastern region celebrated the gifts of our 2022 Jubilarians five months late due to the pandemic! The delay in time did not put a damper on the joyfulness of the event. One Jubilarian said it was the best ever!
The mood of the day was set by the colorful and creative arrangement of flowers and candles which decorated the altar area. Sing a New Song, led by leader of song, Aileen Raya, and pianist, Lucy Clarke, CSJP enhanced the festive spirit as our Jubilarians processed in.
Andrea Nenzel, CSJP presided as the Sisters renewed their vows and the remainder of the Congregation pledged their support “as we walk together in the way of peace”.
We continued our celebration on the auditorium of the Holy Name Hospital Medical Center Sister Claire Tynan School of Nursing. Agnes Fox, CSJP toasted our five Jubilarians:
~ Helen Paul Starr, celebrating 75 years as a CSJP, spent her life as a nurse in many of our ministries. Helen Paul showed exceptional skill in nursing the sick and amazed many doctors at her ability to diagnose an illness. At St. Michael Villa where she now lives, she quietly welcomes every new resident with great kindness and care.
~ Joanne Rusch, celebrating 70 years as a CSJP, taught in many of our schools both on the east and west coast before beginning another phase of her ministry in the Finance Department of St. Peter’s Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. Joanne ministered there for 34 years before retiring and moving to St. Michael Villa.
~ Mary Kuiken, another 70-year Jubilarian, began her ministry teaching business skills to students in St. James High School in Penns Grove, NJ. She continued using those skills while acting as secretary to Mother Patricia Moran, the head of the CSJP’s. Afterwards, Mary served in many other ministries including various Boards of our institutions as well as editor of the St. Joseph Messenger. Mary is enjoying her retirement now as a resident of St. Michael Villa.
~ Josie Pate, a 60-year Jubilarian, taught primary grades for many years before embarking on a new career at Peace Care at St. Ann’s Nursing Home in Jersey City as Admissions Coordinator. Josie is also gifted in Art. She creates beautiful hand-made cards and gifts her family, friends and CSJPs on special occasions. Josie views this jubilee as a time to express gratitude for all the blessings she has received.
~ Carol Adams, also a 60-year Jubilarian, has spent almost her entire religious life at St. Mary’s Parish in Salem NJ. She began as a teacher and also in time, became the Principal. Salem County is one of the poorest counties in NJ and Carol sought to improve the education of its children. When requested to serve on the Salem Board of Education, Carol seized the opportunity and has served on the Board for 20 years. She is grateful and happy to continue serving the poorest of the poor.
Ad Multos Annos, Sisters!
Photos: Peter Pieroni and Susan Francois, CSJP
Article: CSJPs Agnes Fox and Susan Whitsell
