80th ANNIVERSARY OF THE COLUMBAN SISTERS
The Columban Sisters in the Philippines celebrated their 80th Anniversary of missionary presence in the country on November 30, 2019 in San Juan, Metro Manila. It was a joyous occasion graced by the family and friends of Columban Sisters and the relatives of their mission partners from Malasiqui, Lingayen, Labrador and Olongapo, Zambales. They were delighted to see old photographs of their relatives and friends in different mission areas.
Bishop Jesus Cabrera was the main celebrant with Fr. Paul Glynn, SSC as co-celebrant. The guests included the Columban family, priests, students and lay missionaries. Some Sisters from different congregations were present. Monsigñor Cacho, the director of the Columban University in Olongapo, also came.
Bishop Jesus Cabrera and Fr. Paul Glynn, SSC, presiding over the celebration
A sumptuous meal was shared after the Mass. It was catered by a former student of Malate Catholic School which was administered by the Columban Sisters many years ago. Students from Sister Bella’s ministry entertained the group with song and dance performances. A band was provided by one of their benefactors, a relative of the late Sister Sally.
A band, provided by a benefactor, added to the festivities through a serenade
It was a day of meeting old friends, telling some funny stories and remembering the Sisters, who worked against all odds to bring the Gospel to the people, may it be in the barrios, schools or communities.
The day ended with words of gratitude and people taking pictures.
(From Sr. Divina’s letter to the Columban Sisters – edited version)