Sister Hilda Baxter cutting the jubilarian cake.

By Maureen Brennan, CSJP

It was with delight that the sisters and associates in the UK Region were able to gather on Wednesday, 3 June 2026 at Rothley Court Hotel in Leicestershire to give thanks and celebrate the lives of our Jubilarians of 2026. This year Sister Eileen Byrne celebrated 75 years as a CSJP, and Sisters Hilda Baxter and Elizabeth Kenny each celebrated their Platinum Jubilees, 70 years of religious life. It was unfortunate that Sisters Eileen and Elizabeth were unable to be with us in person owing to their health, but we wished them well and remembered them in our prayer.

The weather brightened after a rainy start and the day was simply perfect with a relaxed atmosphere. On behalf of all the Jubilarians, Sister Maureen Brennan warmly welcomed everyone to the celebration and led us in the beautiful prayer graciously prepared by Sister Hilda herself. This included a reflection by John O’Donohue, read by Sister Katrina Alton, finishing with the line:

“May we learn to see ourselves with the same delight, pride and expectation with which God sees us in every moment”.

We were delighted to have Sister Andrea Nenzel join us once again for the celebration.

We offer congratulations to Eileen, Hilda and Elizabeth from all of us. May God continue to bless and guide them in the years to come.