Sr. Annette Dempsey Celebrates her Golden Jubilee

Annette entered Mt. Oliver in 1960 and made First Profession there in 1962. Her first mission appointment was to Maramba School, in Zambia. Here, she quickly made a name for herself as a teacher of mathematics, paying special attention to those students who lagged behind and were in need of extra help. Through offering extra tuition, she ensured that every girl made the grade in maths. Her belief in others and her infinite patience paid off and got results.

From 1978- 1982 Annette held the position of Bursar General in the Congregation. Later in Kamwokya, a densely populated slum area of Kampala, Uganda, she had a change of career, taking up the challenge of

Pastoral Ministry to many people suffering from the effects of H.I.V. and Aids. In this ministry, Annette made many friends through her genuine love and compassion for suffering people. This ministry to the sick is continued by Annette as she endears herself to our sick sisters in St. Francis Nursing Home, offering that same compassion and support.

Annette continues to live out her motto daily “Because of God’s love”.  We congratulate her on her many years of faithful service to God’s people and wish them “Ad multos annos .”

Annette writes…
When I was asked “What is your special memory of your Jubilee Day?” I wanted to say “JUST EVERYTHING”. Sr. Patricia and everyone in Mount. Oliver community worked so hard for days beforehand making everything so welcoming for my sister Thérèse, relatives and friends.

Most special of all was the Thanksgiving Eucharist celebrated by my cousin, Fr. John Killeen.
The choir sang like angels and the drumming by our three African sisters added so much to the joy of the celebration.

For the Franciscan spirit of joy, laughter and community I say “Deo Gratias” for my vocation as a FMSA.