This September, two much-loved Sisters of Jesus and Mary, Sister Brenda and Sister Claudine, moved from their long-standing convent home in Thornton to begin their retirement at the congregation’s Felixstowe convent. Their departure marks the end of an era for many in the Diocese, particularly the parish community of St Bernardine’s, Buckingham, where both sisters served with generosity and joy for many years.
Parishioners will hold especially warm memories of Sister Brenda, who has been one of St Bernardine’s organists since the blessing and inauguration of the church in October 1974. For more than 50 years, her music has enriched parish liturgies, supported countless celebrations, and helped shape the prayerful life of the community. As she begins her well-earned retirement, representatives of the parish travelled to Felixstowe to present the sisters with cards, flowering plants, and many heartfelt messages of thanks. A glass keepsake was offered to Sister Brenda in gratitude for her extraordinary dedication and service. She admitted to feeling “a little overwhelmed” but was deeply touched by the gesture.
Life in Felixstowe is already bringing new joys. Sister Claudine has taken up jigsaw puzzles with enthusiasm, while Sister Brenda is happily accompanied by her dog Scamp, who has settled in quickly among the convent’s other resident pets and, by all accounts, still insists on sleeping at the foot of Sister Brenda’s bed.
During the visit, Sister Claudine kindly guided guests on a tour of the convent and chapel. The parishioners especially appreciated the opportunity to meet several Sisters they had known during their earlier days at Thornton Convent and through their involvement in the independent Catholic school.
The Sisters of Jesus and Mary continue their global mission of education and formation. Founded in 1818 by Saint Claudine Thévenet in Lyon, France, the congregation now oversees educational centres in 28 countries across four continents, serving more than 100,000 children and young people. Thornton College remains a proud member of this international family.
We offer Sister Brenda and Sister Claudine our heartfelt thanks, warmest wishes, and the promise of our prayers as they begin this new chapter. Their presence, service, and witness of faith have blessed our Diocese beyond measure.
