A Centenary Celebrated with Joy and Gratitude

On Saturday, February 28, the chapel in Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM) was filled with joy and gratitude as Sr. Marthe Poliquin celebrated her 100th birthday. Surrounded by her SNJM companions, family members, and friends, she experienced a unique and deeply moving moment marked by emotion and gratitude.

The celebration began with a word of welcome by Sr. Beverley Wattling, who reflected on the remarkable journey of a woman who “fell in love with Jesus” at the end of her studies at Pensionnat Mont-Royal. Fr. Réjean Poirier then presided over the Eucharist, highlighting the richness of a life faithfully given.

Following the Mass, the celebration continued with a family meal. Despite the challenges of severe hearing loss, which makes conversation more difficult, the presence of her loved ones brought Sr. Marthe great joy and comfort.

A Life Rich in Passion and Commitment

The festivities continued with a presentation retracing the key moments of her life, based on notes she had prepared as early as 1998. This look down memory lane offered a powerful glimpse into the depth of her commitment and the meaningful relationships that have shaped her journey.

Sr. Marthe Poliquin

A passionate musician, Sr. Marthe devoted more than 40 years to teaching music. She taught at Pensionnat Marie-Rose, Pensionnat Saint-Nom-de-Marie, and the École supérieure de musique d’Outremont (now the Vincent-d’Indy School of Music). She later became director in Valleyfield, where she also led the music department. In 1982, she founded the Jésus-Marie Music Festival, now known as the Classival Festival.

At the age of 60, she began a new chapter by studying pastoral work and theology. She then became involved with young people through sacramental preparation, led a parish Word community, and accompanied those who were ill. She also contributed to various initiatives, including serving as a member of the Action by Christians for the Abolition of Torture (ACAT-Canada) and the SNJM Solidarity-Justice Committee. These many commitments kept her actively engaged for over 30 years.

An Inspiring Woman

As Sr. Beverley Wattling expressed in her tribute:
“Marthe, we know you as a woman passionate about God, justice, music, and life; a determined and authentic woman… open to the world and full of compassion.”

This centenary celebration was an opportunity to honor a life deeply rooted in faith, music, and care for others—a life that continues to inspire and touch all who encounter her.

Sr. Marthe Poliquin, surrounded by some of her family members, during the celebrations marking her 100th birthday.

Photos credit: Sr. Hélène Harvey