A Grave Matter!

Some years ago we decided to refurbish our Ursuline graves out of gratitude and respect for those who had gone before us. A small committee was formed to undertake this work. Over the years many of our convents had been opened and closed so this was no small task. Thanks to our Archives and Mother Winefride Sturman’s book ‘ The Ursulines in England 1851-1981’ we set to work. As time went by, including COVID, we felt we had done all we could.

Unexpectedly, an Ursuline Grave on the Isle of Wight, was discovered, this was for Mother Philomena Abbott, a member of our Forest Gate Community, who died in 1911. 

On the 25th July 2024, following the refurbishment of this grave by Island Memorials, we invited the local parish priest of Shanklin, Isle of Wight, Father Stephen Vooght to bless the grave. He came prepared with an appropriate service which included prayers, a short litany and the blessing with Holy Water. We brought flowers to lay on the grave, to honour Mother Philomena. Afterwards, Father invited us back to his church and presbytery for refreshments. 

Despite the rain, it was a very special day and a privilege to be part of.

-Sr Kathy Glencross osu