Jubilarians Reflect on Their Loretto Lives

By Cecily Jones

Two diamond jubilarians, Virginia Ann (V.A.) Driscoll and Theresa Louise Wiseman, were joined by two golden jubilarians, Marie Ego and Sue Charmley (anticipating their May 29 anniversary), for a festive celebration at Loretto Motherhouse on Foundation Day, April 25. Several weeks later, each was asked to reflect on some highlight or enduring memory of her many years in the Loretto Community.

Theresa Louise immediately talked about her love for teaching the little ones in the primary grades. For nearly 50 years, she taught at Loretto-staffed schools in Missouri, Illinois and Kentucky. Her sister, Bernardine, and Mary Joyce Reasoner chimed in, reporting how the children in turn loved Theresa Louise.

By contrast, V.A., when asked if she had enjoyed teaching, responded with her characteristic wit, “Not particularly.” However, this former Spanish teacher at several Loretto high schools and at Webster College, added that she had been blessed by all the places where she had lived. V.A. especially remembered some travel opportunities, citing a visit to Ireland, land of her ancestors, and a trip to Latin America as a companion to Mariella Collins, making a provincial visitation there.

Both golden jubilarians responded to the question in written form. Marie’s reflection began, “It is hard to focus on a particular highlight of my 50 years in Loretto as each and every part of my life has been special!” She continued, “One of my main reasons for joining the Community was to get to know God. In the years I have been part of Loretto I have come to know many wonderful people both in the Community and outside it. My goal has been met through all these persons. God is where we all are — in every country, every color, size and shape. I am grateful.”

Sue wrote, “The day I professed my final vows was the happiest day of my life. Maureen McCormack flew down to Albuquerque for the celebration at Aquinas Newman Center.” Sue then quoted an excerpt from the first reading at her ceremony, from a Charles Peguy poem, “The Heart of the Matter,” as “reflecting some of my 50 years.” The lines are:

God said:
I myself will dream a dream within you.
My dreams seem impossible,
Not too practical,
Not for the cautious woman or man—
A little risky sometimes,
A trifle brash perhaps …
From those who share my dreams,
I ask a little patience, a little humor,
Some small courage, and a listening heart.
I will do the rest.

Kay Carlew, homilist at the jubilee Mass, focused her reflections on the theme of love, a thread through the readings from Corinthians, I Am the Way and John’s Gospel, love exemplified in the jubilarians’ lives of prayer and service. She also thanked the four celebrants for their part in continuing the mission of the Loretto Community that was begun 204 years ago on this day.

At the festive jubilee dinner, centerpieces of cream-colored Kentucky dogwood blossoms contrasted with the bright yellow/gold tablecloths. The celebration continued.