Written on: March 27, 2018
Sister Helen Martin (Sister Anne Joseph) was educated by the Grey Nuns in her hometown of Ogdensburg, New York, where the Grey Nuns taught in both the elementary and high school. In her early years as a teacher she served in various schools where Grey Nuns ministered: Lowell, Massachusetts, Atlanta,Georgia, Depew and Potsdam, New York.
After receiving a degree in Library Science from Villanova University, she began her career as a librarian first at Grey Nun Academy in Yardley,Pennsylvania, and later at Wadhams Hall Seminary College in Ogdensburg, New York. In addition to her service as librarian, she was part of the formation programs the college offered to the young seminarians.
On coming to the Yardley Motherhouse, she assisted in the Archives Office as well as in the library. She was also part of retreat programs for groups coming to the Motherhouse.
In her retirement at Holy Redeemer Lafayette,she enjoys having extra time for prayer and reading.
The Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart have always been a part of my life. They were my teachers and friends! It was a joy to be accepted in the the Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart where I was privileged to receive courses in education, library science and spirituality. These opportunities became gifts to share with students and adults in ministry.
I enjoyed my years at Wadhams Hall Seminary College in Ogdensburg, New York. Assisting the seminarians in the library and in their formation programs was a grace-filled time. I was privileged to conduct retreats in the Ogdensburg Diocese and at Christ the King Retreat House in Syracuse, New York. My Seventy years have passed quickly. I am indeed grateful to God for my call and to my family and community for their support.
Congratulations, Sister Helen! I recall, fondly, our time together at Wadhams Hall Seminary College and our working together on retreats in the Ogdensburg Diocese. May God continue to bless you for your service. You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Happy 70th Jubilee!
Sr. Helen, congratulations on your 70th jubilee. I have many happy memories of you in your ministry in Depew, New York, my first introduction to the Grey Nuns of the Sacred Heart. You certainly had a positive impression on my entering the community many years ago. Thank you for your many years of service to God’s people.