Rest In Peace Sr. Jackie

"Do all you can for God's people because time is short." 
- The Venerable Mother Catherine Elizabeth McAuley 

On Monday night, my teacher and friend was killed in a hit and run accident while on retreat in Watermill, NY. Sr. Jackie (SJ as we called her) was the campus minister at Our Lady of Mercy Academy while I was a student there. She was amazing woman who a heart so full of love for everyone she met. Her laugh was infectious and her hugs could melt the North Pole. Despite the fact that it has been 11 years since I graduated, we were still in touch. So much so we have a words with friends game going at the moment...we were trying to find  time for her to meet Charlie. The last time I saw her she was so excited that the hubby and I were expecting a little one...

Last night at her prayer service at St. Edward's there were so many people that they couldn't all fit in the church. It was a true testament to the work she did in the community and how much she meant to all those she met.

SJ LOVED music and LOVED to sing. She freely admitted that she may not have the best voice but, she was going to sing loud and proud anyway.

These were the songs they picked for her service.

Be Not Afraid 

All I Ask 

You Are Mine

The Summons 

News articles: http://syosset.patch.com/articles/syosset-mourns-beloved-sister-jackie
http://www.newsday.com/long-island/suffolk/cops-actively-looking-for-nun-s-hit-run-driver-1.3830952
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newsday/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=158507263
http://www.americamagazine.org/blog/entry.cfm?blog_id=2&entry_id=5257

“God of our ancestors,
we gather to our hearts all those who have influenced our lives with their love and goodness.
Although they have passed on to the other side of this life,
their lives continue to affect who we are and what we do.
Like the sound of a bell resounding in welcoming air, so has the goodness of these holy ones resonated in our lives. Thank you for these women and men and the bond we have with them. Amen  ”

Adapted from: Out of the Ordinary: Prayers, Poems, and Reflections for Every Season. ©2000 Joyce Rupp, Ave Maria Press, Notre Dame, Indiana

Eternal rest, grant unto her, O Lord, 
and let perpetual light shine upon her. 
May the souls of the faithful departed 
through the mercy of God rest in peace. 
Amen.