On a rare rainy day in Atherton, California, in mid-September the staff, residents, and friends of Oakwood Retirement Community — one of and the largest of the Province’s retirement communities — gathered for an open house to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Oakwood. This celebration was a long time coming having been postponed twice due to COVID-19 precautions.
Oakwood officially turned 50 in July of 2021. This gathering was all the more important as it was the first time so many could gather and be in community since the various lockdowns throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. “We were thrilled to welcome so many who were as glad as we were to be back!” shared Sheila Hammond, RSCJ, Community Life Director at Oakwood.
Notably, the late Mary “Be” Mardel, RSCJ, was very active in planning the open house. She was there for the opening of Oakwood and integral in the planning of the 40th anniversary said Sister Hammond. “Be was up and in her scooter greeting people, thrilling her many friends who really came to see her!”
The day was full of joy as sisters reconnected with many of their friends, former students, current Sacred Heart students and their families, and people they had served with in their past ministries.
The staff hosted tours to show off the new Oakwood entry, reception area, parlor and office area. Stephanie Goodyear, Life Enrichment Director at Oakwood, created and shared a slideshow featuring the various events, activities and outings the RSCJ take part in.
In addition, for this special gathering, the library was transformed into an art gallery with various RSCJ artwork on display.
Sister Hammond concluded it was a marvelous event and, despite the rain, it all worked out thanks to “Plan Be.”
