It was indeed with sorrow that the Sisters said goodbye to their superior, Sister St. Hildebert, whose term of office had come to a close this July, 1956. Her virtue, her deep religious spirit, her total self-forgetfulness were admired by all. Her concern for others was evident when Sister accidently broke her arm while helping to put up the crib in the church on Christmas Eve. Her first words were: “Thank God it was I who fell and not one of my companions!” Her rich intellectual resources, as well as all these qualities were aptly noted by her com— panions: “We will forever remember with love and gratitude our incomparable

Sister St. Hildebert!”

The two founding Sisters of Stella Maris Convent also left North Rustico this summer. Sister St. Mary Eugenia was transferred to Miscouche High School and Sister St. Catherine of Louvain to Sydney Mines Convent, Cape Breton.

There is never a shortage of good, capable women in this land of ours. A heartfelt welcome was extended to one of these, Sister (Hermine DesRoches) St. Rosalia, who succeeded Sister St. Hildebert. Sister had spent many years teaching in the High School in Caraquet, N.B. She was a most successful teacher and was well-equipped, too, as a Music teacher.

In August, 1957, Sister Lillian Blacquiere left Stella Maris for a convent with the same name in Pictou, Nova Scotia. The services Sister rendered dur— ing her eight years in North Rustico, her spirit of joy and friendliness, were tru- ly greatly appreciated.

Sister St. Daniel of Mercy (Philomene Gallant) came to replace Sister Lillian. She was surely a great blessing to Stella Maris Convent.

After two weeks of constant work the insulation of the convent was com- pleted and this increased the comfort of all. Many items, all very necessary, were added to the house in 1958. A new organ was bought for the chapel. During the summer of 1961 the entire roof of the convent had to be repaired.

Sister St. Rosalia, besides her efficient care of her household, contributed a big share to school programs. She organized a women’s choir who generally sang once a week in church. Sister also gave piano lessons to a number of students who continued to bring honor to North Rustico at Music Festivals.

It might be added here that, because of sufficient local enrolment, the

decision was made not to take boarders any longer. Through the years from 1950, when three boarders made it possible to open a special class for Grade XI, their- numbers increased until, with thirteen girls, the peak of convent accommodation for boarders was reached. These students were loved and enjoyed.

After six years of generous service and inspiration here Sister St. Rosalia was named to take over the duties of Superior in Tignish Convent.

Sister St. Helen of the Rosary (Sister Ida Reid) came to North Rustico from Notre Dame Academy, Charlottetown, when she left the leadership of that

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