Marian Manor is fast proving that you can never celebrate a happy event too many times! On May 7 the first of the 50th anniversary events began, with a 4:30 p.m. Mass offered by Archbishop Sean O'Malley and many concelebrating priests. In addition to our residents, staff, physicians, nurse practitioners, volunteers and families, there were a host of other attendees. Among them were Mother Suzanne and the General Council of the Carmelite Sisters, members of the Board of Directors, visiting Carmelite Sisters and various professional persons who assist in the mission of the facility. A choir made up of Sisters, staff and volunteers practiced long and hard for the big day and wore borrowed choir robes to enhance the celebration. Department heads, Board members, a resident and a volunteer brought up the offertory gifts, accompanied by two Sisters with lighted candles. The cross bearer was the son of one of our residents, and two department heads were candle bearers. A reception was held in Carmel Hall afterwards for invited guests. Our own Food Service Department outdid themselves with culinary delights.

On May 20 the Seaport Hotel was abuzz with over 400 attendees of the 50th Anniversary Spring Gala. Rev Joseph Kane and Robert J. Griffin Esq were the honorees, and each spoke fondly from the heart about their association with Marian Manor. The screening of the video - Marian Manor - the First 50 Years during dinner brought many a memory and a few tears to those in attendance. Ron DellaChiesa was the perfect host, and Hush the perfect band. The Griffin family demonstrated their dancing skills right up to the 11:30 ending.
Do you think that was it for celebrating? Not at Marian Manor! On June 17, in the midst of the annual Department of Public Health state survey, the Food Service Department did it again by catering a beautiful 50th anniversary dinner for the residents and for all three shifts of staff. The anniversary video was screened at various times in Carmel Hall and over closed circuit Channel 14. From Chicken Marsala to ice cream sundaes, everyone enjoyed the day.

Do you think we're finished celebrating? Stay tuned, I doubt it.