by Fr THIGE O’LEARY, SM
WHANGAREI — A farewell lunch was held for Sr Valerie Gunnion,
RSM, recently at Whangarei, that marked the end of the area’s years of association with the Sisters of Mercy.
More than a decade ago Sr Valerie accepted an appointment to
Whangarei. She assisted students at Otangarei Primary School as
well as giving time to disabled adults at art classes.
Last year a condition developed in one of her feet resulting
in limited mobility. This led to a decision that she move to live
with others of her congregation at St Mary’s Ponsonby.
Members of St Francis Xavier Parish “Gold Card Club” — a Catholic
seniors group — decided to host a lunch for Sr Valerie when
news broke that she would be leaving soon after Easter. Her
departure means that a long association of the Sisters of Mercy
with Whangarei now ends.
At this time the sisters do not have anyone to take up an
appointment.
Before the lunch, attended by about 50 people, Mass was
offered for the intentions of Sr Valerie and in thanksgiving for
her witness and ministry as a religious, by Fr Damian Caccioppoli,
SM.
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