Reaching the age of 100 is a special occasion for anyone, but for Sr Jude, who lives in our Holy Cross nursing home in Sunderland, celebrations for her centenary were extra special.
In an unprecedented occasion at our nursing home, nine local priests gathered to concelebrate a special Mass for Sr Jude in the home’s chapel in honour of her landmark birthday.
Following Mass, friends, staff and fellow residents gathered to enjoy singing along with popular entertainer, Michaela, before tucking into a delicious buffet – complete with a specially-decorated birthday cake.
Sr Jude became a Carmelite nun in her native Ireland at the age of 24 and has dedicated her life to worship and work in the local community. She was known for her love of animals and nature and her passion for music has seen many budding musicians benefit from her tutelage over the years.
Sr Jude has lived at Holy Cross two years and chose it as her home because it shares the same name as her convent in Ireland and was, until 2012, a convent and nursing home run by Little Sisters of the Poor.
“I feel blessed to have enjoyed such a wonderful celebration and I would like to thank everyone for making my day so special,” said Sr Jude. “I thank God every day for the incredible life I have but turning 100 is truly amazing!”
Pictured left to right with Sr Jude: Fr Alec, Fr Pat, Fr Juliet, Fr John Cooper, Fr Bob, Fr Mariadass, Fr Peter, Fr Gordon and Fr Harry.
