Celebration of the Life-Long Commitment of New Centenarian Sr. Éliana Vallée

It was a day of celebration for Sr. Éliana Vallée’s centenary held at Maison Jésus-Marie (MJM) on Sunday, July 28. A dozen members of her family, including nephews and nieces, attended this event along with other residents of MJM.

Sr. Éliana Vallée’s centenary celebration

As is customary, a Mass for the centenarian’s intentions was celebrated before the festive meal. In her welcome address, Sr. Beverley Wattling briefly recalled Sr. Éliana’s long journey of commitment. We learned that, after teaching for a few years, “She used her talents in a variety of roles, in service to the Congregation” (from cook and laundry worker to receptionist and seamstress). All essential roles, it should be noted, to ensure the smooth running of the community’s larger convents, such as in Valleyfield, the Motherhouse in Outremont and at Résidence Marie-Rose Durocher in Montreal.

Despite her many duties, Sr. Éliana spent her free time visiting the sick, particularly in the parish of Saint-Arsène. Then, shortly after arriving at MJM, she hastened to continue her good works by visiting the sick sisters.

In time when she required health care, Sr. Éliana began her prayer ministry. “Her spirituality continues to be based on Jesus, her good shepherd, and Mary, her good mother,” said Sr. Beverley. To support her words, she recalled Sr. Éliana’s cries of joy and her invitations to come and see the “Virgin” when she sees the statue of Mary during the vespers programs on television.

Before wishing a joyful celebration to all those present, Sr. Beverley expressed the following wishes:

“Eliana, you who love Mary so much, may Mary bring you strength and hope to keep you in peace all the days of your life.”

“May you feel, today and every day of your life, God’s smile as He looks at you with tenderness—you, His friend.”

Sr. Éliana, surrounded by members of her family

Following the buffet served in the large meeting room which welcomed the family and some of the SNJM Sisters, the blessing of Bishop Claude Hamelin of the Saint-Jean-Longueuil diocese and the wishes of Governor General Mary Simon were read out. His niece Diane also conveyed the family’s wishes. She was then presented with flowers by the resident Sisters.

The Sisters on her floor joyfully celebrated Sr. Éliana’s centenary

At the end of the afternoon, Sr. Éliana also enjoyed a party with the Sisters on her floor, with whom she shared her birthday cake. A wonderful festive moment for the new centenarian and all her companions.

Note: To facilitate the family gathering, Sr. Éliana’s birthday was celebrated on Sunday, July 28, rather than the following day, her actual date of birth, July 29, 1924.

Photo credit: Sr. Hélène Harvey