Since we finished the month of February celebrating consecrated life, I thought I would use the month of March to focus on the Associates of Providence from our various WPC congregations.

“The Sisters of Providence welcomed a new Associate Director, Aida Gaouette, over the past few months. She had served Associate co-director and now has taken on full responsibilities as Director.

Aida been an SP Associate for 16 years. Commenting on her new role, she said: “I have long admired the Sisters of Providence and all they accomplished through the years. Those who went before me in leadership of the Associate program – both Sisters and Associates – did a great job. I want to do my part to contribute as well and do what I can to carry on the legacy of the Sisters.” She had reflected earlier, “I feel that for every minute of service I give, it is returned 100-fold in the many blessings I receive.” Also as 2021 came to a close, the Sisters of Providence and the Associates – with variety of Covid precautions – were able to gather together for their Annual Christmas Party. The Associates prepared a brief prayer service for before the festive dinner.

The Associates also were busy with other Christmas activities, such as bringing Christmas gifts to the Sisters at Providence Place and Mary’s Meadow Nursing and Rehab facility. Two Associates elves were sighted and caught on camera as they brought Christmas greetings and good cheer to all. Associates Louise Cooper and Connie Canata delivered the gifts, aided by Associate Pat St. Amand who also helped with the purchasing and wrapping.

Preparing for 2022 while adapting to Covid challenges, Aida and Associate Core Group have planned for the next several months a series of Associates Zoom gatherings with guest speakers and time for dialogue.  Also they initiated the processes of welcoming two new Associates.”