This past summer, the faculty, staff, and students of St. Joseph School in Webster, MA renewed their former tradition of making a pilgrimage to the Felician Convent in Enfield, CT. With great joy, two buses carried students in grades four through seven for a day of faith, formation, and fellowship—a tradition that, now renewed, will now be held annually to connect St. Joseph students more deeply with their Felician heritage.
The visit began in the chapel, where Sr. Jeanne Marie Akalski led a reflection on vocations. She reminded the children that their first call began at baptism and encouraged them to nurture that call through daily prayer and conversations with trusted adults. Her heartfelt words invited the students to open their hearts to God’s guidance.
In this Jubilee year, celebrating 150 years of the Felician Sisters in North America and the legacy of Blessed Mary Angela, Sr. Mary Ann Papiez shared inspiring insights into Mother Angela’s life and mission. Sr. Laureann Alexandrowicz followed with stories of the pioneer sisters and an explanation of the Blessed Mary Angela tapestry that once hung in St. Peter’s Square, and is now displayed in the convent chapel. Students were moved to reflect on the sacred ties to the sisters who founded their school in 1892.
A highlight of the day was a special session for the soon-to-be eighth graders, led by Principal Mrs. Boudreau, Sr. Anita Marie Taddonio, Sr. Carol Marie Saladin, and teachers, Mrs. Weaver and Mrs. Lefebvre. The students were reminded of their role as future leaders: “You are the role models, the future apostles of the school, the 2025–2026 edition!” They were challenged to lead with joy, kindness and faith.
The day concluded with a prayer service, including a Gospel reading, reflection, Prayers of the Faithful, and closing prayer.
Afterward, the students enjoyed a short convent tour before heading to Sonny’s Place in Somers, CT where they shared lunch and an afternoon of fun with mini golf, go-carts, zipline rides and more.
This pilgrimage gave students a meaningful encounter with the mission and ministry of the Felician Sisters, grounding them in the spiritual and educational heritage that continues to shape St. Joseph School today.
