Formers’ Reunion: Reunited in Joy and Gratitude

Laughter, song and sunflowers filled the air as former members and Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur gathered this past

Sisters Monica Madden, Nancy Simonds and Geraldine Stanton, SNDdeN and former members Mary Margaret Quinn Devine and Eleanor (Crowley) Healey/BJFRASERPHOTO

Fall to celebrate their shared story. Two reunions—held September 13 in Wenham, Massachusetts, and October 4 in Belmont, California—brought together nearly 150 women to rekindle enduring friendships.

The gatherings overflowed with connection and gratitude. One attendee shared, “I never regretted the 10 years I spent in Notre Dame. It has influenced my whole life. St.Julie has been an important part of my prayer life and ministry as a teacher and catechist.” From archival slideshows set to an SNDdeN chorale playlist to spontaneous hymn singing, joy was unmistakable.

Each event also featured a replica of the “Black Element,” the walls in Namur, Belgium, engraved with the names of every woman who has taken °rst vows as a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur.

We are deeply grateful to all who joined us—in person and in spirit—for these moments of grace and reunion.