Friends and Sisters of Charity of Nazareth joined Sr. Maggie Cooper, SCN (fourth from right) to bid her farewell at a Mass celebrated by Bishop Christopher Glancy, CSV at the home of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth on April 27.
From The Christian Herald, May 2017
A group of people gathered for what was a sacred moment of mixed thoughts and feelings. Gratitude and love for a special woman was probably the strongest emotion within all who were present on Thursday, April 27 at the home of the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth located on Princess Margaret Drive in Belize City. This was blended with a touch of loss for the Catholic community as it was acknowledged that Sr. Maggie Cooper, SCN’s time for being in full-time ministry in Belize, after 18 years, had come to an end.
Sr. Maggie asked that the time together be a blessing and a celebration. And so it was. She and her discipleship were celebrated with the Eucharist led by Bishop Christopher Glancy, CSV joined by friends of Sr. Maggie from the north, south, east and west of Belize. Her SCN sisters, SCN associates, religious communities, LIMEX graduates, recipients of the Basic Religious Certi cate program, members of the Pastoral Life Commission, and other partners in ministry shared stories of the impact Sr. Maggie has made in their lives and communities. She has pioneered various programs within the diocese.
Furthermore, she has led the development and growth of Catholic ministries for laity through training, education, formation, friendship, moral support and empowerment for individuals and teams. What was beautiful was the love each person at the gathering has for Sr. Maggie. Everyone knows they have had a great mentor and cheerleader in Sr. Maggie. The ministries she has been influential in forming are very much alive, and those present knew they will be carrying well the gift of ministry this fearless, smart, loving, faithful daughter of God has guided them in developing. “She has planted seeds in us and begun to water them. We will continue to water these seeds.” It was shared numerous times that the impact this Sister of Charity has made in the Church of Belize is nothing small. In fact, it is tremendous, far-reaching and long-term. Each part had been built out of pure love for God and for the people of God, a love Sr. Maggie never measured but gave willingly and consistently.
Bishop-Elect Lawrence Nicasio, Steven Sabal, Sr. Maggie Cooper, SCN and Pete Castillo pose for a photo.
It was indeed a celebration. As Sr. Maggie departs she will leave the gift of footprints of God’s Spirit that can never be erased. We say farewell, but mostly we say thank you God for loaning us such a beautiful committed woman. Also, thank you Sr. Maggie for everything you have done and for who you have been. We love you and as many of your friends said that day, you will aĺways be in our hearts. We wish you every blessing!
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Congratulations Sister Maggie. You’re an inspiration to everyone you touch.
Congratulations, dear friend and comrade!! I know you will not be forgotten by all those wonderful people you have helped!! They are so fortunate God sent you to be in their midst!! I have never forgotten you either. You even came to my wedding many years ago! (My darling Ross passed on last May!-age 83- we were together 41 years!) How I would love to see you again! The times I was able to go to Nazareth for reunions etc, you were, unfortunately , not able to be there, so I kept missing you. Maybe we can still meet again before our life ends here ! You are loved and I am happy for all the Love you have given and received! You are a faithful Servant for sure!!! If you can contact me, please do! (Number is: 419-874-0798.) Love you, dear friend! Many memories we could gather together!
Patty Teufel
Dear Maggie, This is indeed a great tribute to God’s marvelous deeds done with your heart, hands and mind. So much has happened in these 18 years that has contributed to the growth of the Church in Belize. God’s blessings always as your journey takes you to other shores.
Sr. Maggie – we so enjoyed visiting and touring your ministries with you several years back in Belize. God bless you for all your hard work and efforts.
What a lovely celebration. I was fortunate to meet you on my short visit to Belize City. I hope to see you again in Kentucky.
A wonderful tribute, Maggie. You laid a solid foundation so, the community will continue to grow. They were blessed to have you for 18 years. Blessings to you.
Carmelita
Great tribute Maggie and nice dispedida 👍🏻🙏🍾
Within the first hour or day of my first visit to Belize, I knew how much Maggie was contributing to the development of knowledge and ministry in the church of Belize. Eighteen years! What a fidelity and an accomplishment! SCNs are proud of you, Maggie.
Thanks you for your faithful ministry. Glad you are here at Nazareth, Prayers for your continuing good health!
Thanks for your remarkable service to the people of God.
Sr. Trudy Foster
Dear Sister Maggie you truly deserve such a loving and heartfelt tribute for your 18 years of committed service to God and His people in Belize. You are a valiant woman , no doubt “this fearless, smart, loving, faithful daughter of God has guided them in developing. “She has planted seeds in us and begun to water them. We will continue to water these seeds.’
Profound words expressed for your selfless service. Very proud of you Sr Maggie. May you continue to be an inspiration to many more….. May God grant you good heath. Sisters & friends in USA will be awaiting for your arrival back home…
Blessings on you Maggie today and in the next chapter of your life. You will be greatly missed by the people of Belize, but warmly welcomed by your Sisters and friends in the States.
This is a well-deserved tribute, Maggie, for all you have given to the people of Belize.