PAWTUCKET — Auxiliary Bishop Robert C. Evans celebrated Mass at the Little Sisters of the Poor Jeanne Jugan Residence on Wednesday, October 25, to commemorate the 225th birthday of Saint Jeanne Jugan, founder of the Little Sisters of the Poor and namesake of the Pawtucket residence for the elderly.
Saint Jeanne Jugan was born in France in 1792 during a time when the French Revolution made the open practice of religion dangerous for many Catholics. Her desire to serve God led her to live in community with other Catholic women and care for the old and sick in her own home, eventually founding the order that would become known for its service to the elderly poor.
“Today we honor her memory, we beg her intercession and we give God our gratitude for choosing, guiding and directing this holy woman to devote her life to service to neighbor, especially those who have no one else to care for them,” said Bishop Evans. “The example of the Little Sisters reflects that love spoken of by Saint John, namely that we don’t merely talk about love but put it into action.”
Other activities during the day included a special dinner for residents, a play commemorating the life of Saint Jeanne Jugan and the presentation of the Jeanne Jugan Award, an annual award that recognizes an employee who exemplifies the mission of the order’s founder. This year’s award was presented to Certified Nursing Assistant Famata Gaye.
“Everybody’s celebrating. It’s a big day for the residents,” said Sister Mercy Stella Theresa, mother superior of the Pawtucket community. “This is a celebration of our mother, the mother of the home.”
