Cathedral’s ‘go-to’ person retires after 26 years of service

“I’ve heard that there are two different meanings for ‘retire’ – to ‘retire’ and to ‘re-tyre,’” Fr Martin Sirju amusingly commented during the 9 a.m. Mass on October 17.

The auspicious occasion was held in commemoration of the retirement of Carol Benicourt-Duprey, who recently concluded her duties at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception office after over 26 years of commitment and invaluable service.

Carol has worked successfully with six Cathedral Administrators during her tenure. Fr Sirju delivered the homily with additional special remarks filled with pleasant memories and praise for Carol, who has over the years been regarded as a key ‘go-to’ person on significant projects that have kept the Cathedral/Sacred Heart parish running smoothly.

Carol is regarded as having uniquely accurate intuition, special attention to detail and quick alertness, to eagerly attend to requests at any time necessary.

Fr Sirju recalled that, when asked how she wanted to commemorate her retirement, Carol requested a Mass be celebrated in thanksgiving of her tenure at the Cathedral office.

The Mass was indeed enjoyed by all, who lifted their voices to hymns like ‘To God be the Glory’ which were hand-picked by Carol for the occasion.

Toward the end of the Mass, Carol extended her thanks particularly to Msgr Christian Pereira, who was instrumental in encouraging her to take on the vital role in the Cathedral office.

“I’d like to also especially thank my friends and family for their support – they always show up,” Carol said. She encouraged her friends and family to stand as the congregation welcomed and applauded them warmly.

Carol was presented with special gifts from the Cathedral office, including a commemorative plaque for her years of service. Her friends and family additionally showered her with gifts and well wishes to congratulate her on over 26 years of hard work, outstanding achievements, and immense dedication.

Carol is truly a gem, and though the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and Sacred Heart Church family will miss interacting with her every day at the office, we wish her the very best on her new journey. —Ave Le Blanc