We want to celebrate with you the lifetime ministry of Sister Jean Sinclair to G.I.F.T.
From Newsletter of Good Shepherd Parish, Balmoral, Auckland NZ:
“17 September 2023, ‘G.I.F.T.’ celebrated its 50th Jubilee. ‘G.I.F.T.’ stands for:
Growth in Faith Together. It was the vision of Cenacle Sister Jean Sinclair, who saw the need to walk with, and nourish the faith lives of those with intellectual disabilities. There was a huge void in this area and ministries like L’Arche were beginning to emerge overseas.
Sister Jean recognised that these people were missing out when it came to celebrating the sacraments and living fully their faith. Sr Jean had the enthusiasm, commitment and faith to put her vision of ‘growing in faith together’ into action.
For over 50 years this very special community has had a place in the life and mission of the Auckland Diocese and we have been blessed to have had ‘G.I.F.T.’ based here in Balmoral for the last 47 years. The Diocese is committed to continuing the ‘G.I.F.T.’ ministry and we rejoice with the extended ‘G.I.F.T.’ whanau as they celebrate this golden milestone! Bishop Steve will be here for the Jubilee Mass.”
Sister Clare O’Connor represented our Cenacle Community at the Golden Jubilee Mass for ‘G.I.F.T.’.
There was a wonderful gathering including many families and people associated with GIFT over 50 years, as well as Auckland Cenacle Companions, Sarah Hart and Lijana Anketell. Lijana worked alongside Jean over many faithful years and was a dear friend of Jean. Angela Harwood was Jean’s “right hand woman” and Cenacle Companion. Angela with a passion and energy for ‘G.I.F.T.’ now lives in Christchurch. Sarah continues to be in touch with Angela.
The Sinclair Family also contacted us rejoicing at the 50th year celebration and are very proud of all Jean accomplished.
Jean’s niece, Heather, sent us this photo of the Prayers of the Faithful.
We remain grateful and proud of our Sister, Jean Sinclair and of each person associated with ‘G.I.F.T.’
We’re delighted to share with you these photos from the joyful celebration.
The GIFT community gathered at their Golden Jubilee
Clare O’Connor and GIFT friends
Cenacle Community July 2023
Seated L-R: Clare, O’Connor, Kathleen Ryan
Back L-R: Mary J Kay, Anne Powell, Ngaire Roil (W. Australia)
at our gathering in Waikanae
Earlier this year, Ngaire visited from Perth, Australia. Because of travel restrictions during Covid-19, it was impossible for us to meet. We enjoyed some days of reflection and sharing as Community for Mission, and also an afternoon with our Waikanae Cenacle Companions. We’re glad to share these photos of some of the Companions.
L-R: Ronnie Parton, Anne Powell, Clare, O'Connor, Ngaire Roil, Susan Kelly
L-R Ngaire Roil, Ngaire Pinkham