Last week, I was able to attend a fundraiser for the Sisters of Charity – Halifax at the beautiful Union League Club in midtown Manhattan. As I and my family have been long-term supporters of the Sisters, it was nice to get together with other supporters as they continue to fund-raise for the housing renovation for the retired sisters.
As a member of their investment committee for several years, I understand the importance of ensuring the financial stability for the aging population of nuns who have helped countless individuals by educating them, ministering to them in hospitals and helping with their religious lives. I had the good fortune of being educated during my elementary school days at St. Barnabas School in Bellmore, New York where the Sisters of Charity were the predominant teachers. If you grew up on Long Island and attended Catholic elementary schools, you likely were taught by the Sisters of Charity.
The fundraiser was in support of the renovation project to update the Elizabeth Seton Residence in Wellesley, Massachusetts that is used by the retired nuns. The facility was originally built to house 18 and 19 year old young women as they entered the order and was built with those ages in mind. So the 80 and 90-year-old retired nuns have been subjected to a using a rest room down the hall as is common in many older college dorms. As is their nature, they never complained and fought against upgrading the living conditions. Happily, we were able to persuade them the benefits especially as their physical condition continues to reflect their ages. The construction will be completed by the end of the year as to afford them a very Merry Christmas. One generous benefactor from Bergen County has supplied all of the rooms with computers so the Sisters can email the many people who they have touched through the years. The benefactor discussed at the fund-raiser about how touched he was when one of the nuns thanked him for allowing her to communicate again as she has been deaf for many years and this allowed her the ability to “speak” with others again. It seems you often get back more than you give – doesn’t it?
If you would like to assist the Sisters and their endeavor, you can find more information about them at their website (http://www.schalifax.ca ) including how to donate to this worthy cause.
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