Marie Etheridge Enters Novitiate

September 29, 2005

On September 12, 2005, we were pleased to welcome candidate Marie Etheridge into the Novitiate phase of the Formation Program of our Congregation (Newfoundland). Marie has journeyed with us over the past couple of years during the live-in and candidacy phases of the program
and ministered at the same time to the elderly and infirm at St. Patrick's Mercy Home.

The ritual, which was held at St. Bride's Convent chapel, consisted of an Introductory Rite, a celebration of the Word, the Rite of Reception and a Concluding Rite. Before the assembled group of sisters, relatives and friends, Marie expressed her desire to experience our way of life and invited us to journey with her as she continues to discern God's call in her life, to help her grow in the spirit of prayer, hospitality and generous service of God's people and to teach her what it means to live the Gospel, according to the charism of Catherine McAuley. In response, we, as sisters, accepted the privilege and responsibility to share our life in Mercy with Marie through prayer, example and encouragement.

In the celebration of the Word, we listened to the call of the first disciples as recounted by Luke. We pray that Marie will continue to experience in new ways the sense of call that has led her to this place in her life, and that she will continue to sing a new song, a song of mercy and compassion.

Sister Helen Harding, Congregational Leader, giving Marie a copy of our Constitutions.