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Sr. Ann Pennington, SFCC, D.Min., director of senior adult ministry and outreach for the parish, has announced that she will be moving to Waco February 1st to enjoy “semi-retirement."
She will be renting an apartment in the independent living section of Providence Park where she will be actively involved in ministry. "Waco is quite familiar to me since I am a Baylor graduate and spent several years there in various types of ministry including church music and chaplaincy in hospital, long-term care, and hospice settings," she said. "When I called to ask about apartment availability, a former colleague answered the phone. A short time later, I was told that, out of appreciation for my years of ministry in Waco, Providence Park had decided to waive my entrance fee of $1800."
We will miss Sr. Ann's ever joyful spirit and her inspired pastoral care and guidance for the elderly of the parish. Sr. Ann started the senior adult ministry at St. Theresa six years ago, including not only pastoral visits to the sick and homebound, but also many opportunities for seniors to gather for cards and games, socializing, bible studies, Holy Communion service at Brookdale, day trips and more. Kay Hays was new to Austin when she joined the parish about five years ago. “As a result of Sr. Ann’s efforts, I have made many good friends with whom I can socialize,” she said. “I am so very grateful!”
During the pandemic senior adult activities have been curtailed, but Sr. Ann has stayed in touch with the seniors of the parish. “Sr. Ann has been our angel during the pandemic,” says Judy Hickey. “She emails me and my husband Paul every week to see how we are doing and to send prayers our way.”
Sr. Ann noted “it has been a joy and a privilege to be part of a parish whose members live out their faith in service and support to each other and to the community at large."
Her order, Sisters For Christian Community, has no retirement fund or facilities for sisters. For those of you who would like to show your love and appreciation to Sr. Ann, we have set up a retirement gift page where you can donate online.
Also, cards and gifts can be sent to the parish office before January 31st, or you can leave a message for Sr. Ann on this online card. Photos or video messages can be posted too. Thank you Sr. Ann for your love and care of our senior neighbors and for allowing the Holy Spirit to work through you to bring the love of God to so many people. You will be greatly missed!
