Newfoundland Sister of Mercy Honored

Recently Sister Kathrine Bellamy was honored for her dedicated and outstanding service to the Basilica-Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. Sister Kathrine was one of two recipients of the Papal Honour of the Cross, Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, during the parish celebration of the Liturgy of the Eucharist on Sunday, September 10, 2006.

Before the presentation of the medal and the certificate by Archbishop O’Brien, it was noted that Sister Kathrine had been central to the music ministry of the Basilica-Cathedral, having served as music coordinator, choir director and organist for parish functions and parish liturgies for twenty-four years. Presently she continues to be organist for one of the weekend liturgies in the parish and uses her gifts and talents in the service of the Archdiocese and the parish by composing sacred music for liturgies. One of her recent compositions was that of music for the Proclamation of the 150th anniversary of the Cathedral celebrated in 2005.

Of particular mention, was her concern, care and ministry to the poor. In 1980 Sister Kathrine became director of Outreach to the Poor of the Basilica Parish, of which one division was the Family Care Centre. In 1994 she initiated an ecumenical endeavour, whereby two Roman Catholic and three Anglican parishes united in their efforts to form Emmaus House, an interdenominational Centre serving the poor of the area.

Following the Liturgy, a Reception was held in the Episcopal Library where the Hospitality Committee of the Basilica Parish served refreshments and many parishioners and Sisters of Mercy came to express gratitude and congratulations.

Messages to Madonna Gatherall rsm