A get-together on August 26th - A reunion and a celebration of gratitude at Résidence Sainte-Émélie
The Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) are extending an invitation to a reunion and a celebration of thanksgiving to highlight their significant presence in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve-Viauville districts. This joyful gathering will take place at Résidence Sainte-Émélie, 4837 Adam Street, on Saturday, August 26, between 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm.
The intention is, at the same time, to emphasize the nearly 160 years of presence in these districts of this first teaching Congregation of women religious which was founded in Canada. Indeed, it is easy to forget that the initial presence of the SNJMs in Montreal was in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve-Viauville districts.
This first expansion of the Congregation, founded by Eulalie Durocher, dates back to 1860 with the establishment of the Hochelaga Convent, which played a major role in the area by housing many institutions right up until its closure in 1972.
Called to respond to the urgent needs of education in the east end of Montreal, the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary also opened the Sainte-Émélie Convent. This institution would play an equally important role with the local population, by offering various training programs, not to mention English courses, commercial courses and courses that were artistic in nature (painting and music).
The influence of the SNJMs in the area has extended well beyond the private and public institutions which they have established. Thus, many religious have taught in almost all the schools of the sector as is made evident in the exhibition "L’école d’antan” (The School of Yesteryear) at the Musée Dufresne. They have also been involved in several English schools thanks, among other things, to the presence of both English-speaking and bilingual Sisters.
To this education-oriented presence, we must also underline all the work in social action initiated in the east end of Montreal. Continuing the mission of Blessed Marie-Rose (Eulalie Durocher), the Sisters set up, on their own or with partners, large-scale projects to help impoverished women and families. For example, we think about Meals on Wheels, the Carrefour familial Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, the Centre des jardins, French courses for refugees, social action groups, and also their significant support for various reputable organizations, including Chic Resto-Pop.
Those who have maintained relationships with the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve-Viauville districts, former students, teachers and/or collaborators, are invited to participate in this reunion and celebration of thanksgiving , on August 26. To facilitate the organization of this activity, it would be helpful if you confirmed your presence by August 18, 2017, with Sister Lise Gendron at 450-651-3744, ext. 1410 or by e-mail: lisegendron@snjm.qc.ca
