Alumnae Reunion

May 28, 29, 2010

St. Angela’s Academy Alumnae Reunion
Sr. Adelaide Fortowsky

In the past, Prelate and District was well aware when the Academy had graduation or an alumnae reunion because there would be people coming here from many areas to celebrate. This year, St. Angela’s Alumnae had a reunion on May 27 and 28 in Saskatoon.  A major change!  It wasn’t quite the same as when it was at St. Angela’s in Prelate but everyone had a wonderful time, nevertheless.  To describe the event, I quote from a write-up that Sr. Gertrude, osu, had on Facebook and which she gave permission to use.
            “The sounds of the 100 or so who gathered in the Diefenbaker Room of the Ramada Inn in Saskatoon were very much like those one heard through the halls of St. Angela’s Academy, especially as girls returned after a time away.  There were squeals of recognition, hugs, tears, laughter, chatter from every sector, moments of silence, awe and wonder.  The age range spanned from two months to ninety-two years.

From among those who had not lived the Academy experience (like some of the spouses) there were comments like, ‘There is something going on here that speaks of a life together That I wish I could have experienced.  I am very happy to be part of this weekend’.” 

Photos were shared, yearbook photos gave rise to much merriment as pranks and blessings were recalled; names were proudly pointed to on trophies and plaques, most items were free and items of clothing were available for purchase at unbelievable bargain prices!  There was time for sharing memories and making predictions.

High in priority among the many memorable events, were the visit with the retired Sisters at St. Angela Merici Residence and the guided tours of this beautiful home, including the museum now housing the most treasured items formerly kept at Prelate.  The culmination was the celebration of Mass for the Feast of the Holy Trinity, in the chapel.  The combination of well trained voices representing many generations wafted our prayers heavenward.  Before returning to the hotel we sang “The Holy City” and then were brought back to earth with a small group, dressed in traditional habits, doing a delightful (and oh so pious) rendition of “Hail Holy Queen” from Sister Act.

Back at the hotel we enjoyed a delicious banquet followed by a thoroughly delightful sharing of talent and fun, and then it was time to say good-bye…but before that, somewhere in the day, a new executive took office and plans were made for another reunion in four years.  What a joyful, rejuvenating weekend it was!  Somehow in the people who were present, we felt the presence of all who had at one time and in any capacity been part of this grace-filled 88-year ministry of “educating for life”.  It was truly a time of giving glory to our Triune God as “Truth”, “Goodness” and “Wisdom”.”

Towards the end of the celebration, Sr. Rosetta called the past executive forward and Sr. Louisa Brost, on behalf of Sr. Anne Lewans, General Superior, presented them with flowers in appreciation for their dedication and service.  She thanked Anna Mary Rajchyba for the work she did during the reunion.

Indeed, it was an Alumnae Reunion to be remembered: one to live on, not only in the making of cherished friendships, but in the making of history.  As one person said, quoting scripture, Matthew 17:4, “Lord, it is good to be here.”

And so it was.