WelCom February/March 2025
Carmel Cole rndm celebrated her ruby jubilee (40 years) in Dannevirke on 7 December among a large crowd at St Joseph Church joining her for her special day. Guests included family, friends and Sisters from other communities as well as parishioners and friends from Dannevirke, where Carmel has been living for four years.
In her opening welcome Carmel remembered her parents, who have both died in the last three years, and gave thanks for their support and inspiration. She also remembered her novitiate companion Alei Leilua who died suddenly in Samoa in 2019.
Appropriately, Bishop Peter Cullinane was the presiding celebrant, as he was the celebrant in 1993 when Carmel made her final vows in Bulls. The parish choir, of which Carmel is a part, provided music for the Mass. Carmel sang the Psalm filling the church with a beautiful sound. The Sisters responded in kind after the Renewal of Vows, harmoniously singing the Gloria Patria.
In his homily, Bishop Peter spoke about the call of each person to follow Christ, with a beautiful reflection on Religious Life. Mary Maitland reflected on Carmel’s life and the various missions and ministries that have formed her. Mary gave thanks for Carmel’s courage and generosity, especially for her 12 years of ministry in Leadership of the Aotearoa New Zealand and Samoa Province.
The celebration and conversations continued in the parish hall where parishioners had provided a wonderful spread. Carmel cut her jubilee cake and thanked everyone for their presence at her special celebrations.