By Sister Mary Fitzgerald, SSND
On Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025, three SSNDs at Ozanam Hall celebrated their 70th Jubilees: Henrita Frost, Mary Laurellen Nixon, and Rosemary Spodnik. Dorothy Leising celebrated her seventy-fifth jubilee in heaven.
The jubilarians wore sashes to designate the big day.
Sister Catherine Feeney prepared the liturgical readings and intercessions. She also brought beautiful pink and red carnations to adorn the tables.
Sister Regina Mulenga, Coordinator of SSND Community at Ozanam, provided bright, sparkly table covers, vases, and juice for the sisters to drink.
Sister Bernadette Alfieri supplied two cakes – one with vanilla icing and one with chocolate. Sister Philip Ann Bowden, O.Carm., provided ice cream.
The presider at Mass was Father Anthony Mugavero, a dear friend of the Leising sisters.
The readings were from Hosea and the 15th chapter of John’s Gospel. The singing was a cappella, and the choir of Sisters was magnificent!
Father Tony gave a very inspirational homily in which he thanked and praised our jubilarians for their long years of dedicated service.
After the homily, the Sisters renewed their vows. The strength of the “AMEN” at the end could rival what Jerome called the “thunderous roar of the Great Amen” in late fourth and early fifth century liturgies in Christian churches!
After Mass, we all enjoyed the cake and ice cream and continued the celebration with the acknowledgment of birthdays.
Sister Mary O’Connor celebrated 91 years of gifted life on October 17. On October 31, Sister Florence Leising was to celebrate 98 years, and on the same day, Sister Blanche Leising was to celebrate 100 years. Two sisters born on the same date just two years apart!
The joy was obvious in the beaming smiles of all in attendance.
