More than 600 people attended the celebration that highlighted the departure of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) from the municipality of Sainte-Martine which is in the Diocese of Valleyfield. Several people expressed the following sentiments, “The parish is losing one of its most precious jewels and we’ve come to show our gratitude even though we are regretting their decision.”
The 60 or so Sisters including the 12 from the convent in Ste-Martine were greatly surprised by the extent of the preparations for this celebration organized by Micheline Renaud, president of the pastoral council and by the huge outpouring of gratitude expressed throughout the day.
The large number of people who attended greatly illustrated the sentiments of all. “Former students and parishioners recognized all the work accomplished by the Sisters throughout the 115 years here in our midst,” said Mrs. Renaud who also added, “They regret the Congregation’s decision but they understand. They are saying thankyou, each in their own way.”