The Crowning of Mary, an OLPH Convent Tradition Since 2005

Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Convent recently participated in their annual Crowning of Mary ceremony and devotion, which was coordinated by staff member Karen Murphy. Karen has coordinated this event, which includes scripture readings, prayers, songs, and the crowning, every year except for those where construction has occurred since 2005. In keeping with tradition, she chooses a Sister to lead the readings and perform the crowning every year.

She shared the list of participants with us, allowing us to remember and celebrate our Sisters and learn why they were chosen.

This year, we were blessed with a picture-perfect day, a fitting backdrop to our joyous celebration of the season of new life. The crowning event provided a memorable encounter with Christ through the Virgin Mary, Queen of Heaven and Earth, filling the hearts of our Sisters with joy and gratitude.  

Sr. Irene Arsenault placed this year's crown on the Blessed Mother and was chosen to do so because she is the longest professed at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Convent, 72 years (who hasn't had the honor in the past).

In 2023, Sr. Jeannine Boutin was chosen because she was the oldest Sister at age 97 and an 80th Jubilarian celebrant.

In 2022, Sr. Marie Sopr was chosen because she had been living at OLPH since 2016 and was celebrating her 70th Jubilee.

In 2021, Sr. Peg McPeak was chosen because she was the oldest Sister at age 97.

In 2020, Sr. Emma Rohn was chosen because during that year, out of the Sisters living at OLPH, she was there the longest, since 2014.

In 2019, At age 88, Sr. Rosemary Gaffney had the honor.

In 2018, Sr. Louise Dufour,  who had been a resident since 2006, was chosen for the number of years she was living in the Convent.

In 2017, Sr. Veronica McCormack, who had been a resident since 2003, was chosen for the number of years she had lived in the Convent.

In 2015, Sr. Emelda Parent was chosen for the number of years she had lived in the Convent (27 years).

In 2012, Sr. Robert Hogan was chosen for her 60th Jubilee and 88th birthday.

In 2011, Sr. Gertrude O'Brien was chosen because she was turning 95 and celebrating her 75th Jubilee.

In 2010, Sr. Alice Paquin was chosen because she turned 90.

In 2009, Two Sisters shared the honor. Sr. Rachel Bouchard and Sr. Mary Pfeifer were both celebrating their 70th Jubilees.

In 2008, Sr. Martha Winum was chosen because she was celebrating her 75th Jubilee.

In 2007, Sr. Marie Franck was chosen because she was celebrating her 70th Jubilee.

In 2006, Sr. Edna Butler was chosen because she was leaving Our Lady of Perpetual Help Convent.

In 2005, Sr. Lucy Daigle was the first Sister to have the honor of placing the flower crown on the Blessed Mother Statue. She was chosen because she was 90 and new to the Convent.

Thanks to Karen Murphy for keeping such a beautiful tradition alive for the Sisters of Our Lady Of Perpetual Help Convent.