An honour to serve

The Corpus Christi Carmelite Sisters will celebrate their centenary of arrival in Trinidad this month. This is Part Six and the conclusion of the history of the Congregation. Part One appeared in the June 9 issue; Part Two – July 14; Part Three – August 11; Part Four – September 8; and Part Five – October 13.

In 1935 the island celebrated the silver anniversary of Archbishop Dowling.  Since he was also ecclesiastical superior of their congregation, the Corpus Christi Sisters had their share in the ceremonies.

In his speech he made to the many people assembled to honour him, he thanked them all for having made it so wonderful an occasion, and he especially mentioned the Carmelite community.

“I think the most important work I have done since I became archbishop,” he said, “is to have brought the Corpus Christi sisters here in 1919.  It is an honour to Trinidad and the Archbishop that they have their Motherhouse here.  I think it is a unique honour and only fitting that they should help celebrate my silver anniversary this morning.”

The Carmelite Sisters have been associated with the Archdiocese of Port of Spain ever since they came into corporate existence through the inspired zeal of their venerable Foundress, Mother Mary Ellerker of the Blessed Sacrament.

Excerpts taken from With God and Two Ducats (1958) by Katherine Burton, and A Great Adventure (1944), Corpus Christi Carmelites.

CENTENARY CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Thursday, November 7 to Friday 15 – Novena in honour of 100th anniversary @ 6 p.m. at L’Hospice

Thursday, November 14 – Mass at L’Hospice, actual day of arrival; Carmelite Sisters and regular devotees at 5 p.m.

Saturday, November 16 – Holy Mass at Cathedral at 10 a.m.