In Memory

Sr. Pauline Doherty, O.L.M. (1920-2009)

May/June 2010

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Our Sister Pauline died November 20, 2009, after a long missionary life. Pauline was born on November 13, 1920, and filled her 89 years with love, joy, and service. After becoming a nurse and working in various Canadian hospitals, Pauline responded to God’s call by entering Our Lady’s Missionaries in 1952. The following are tributes from our Sisters who grew to love and appreciate who Pauline was, and how she shared and learned from others during her lifetime.

Sr. Mary Hughes, who lived and worked with Pauline and who remained her devoted lifelong friend writes:

“In 1965 Pauline came to Brazil, and for the next 10 years worked as a staff nurse in the Fortaleza University Hospital. Answering a need for nurses, Pauline moved to Palmacia, a small town in the interior of Fortaleza. After learning about the needs of the area, and at the request and with the help of the townspeople, Pauline was instrumental in constructing a small maternity hospital. She also was active in providing the proper and necessary obstetrical training for the staff. It was a service the town wanted and needed and the hospital is still functioning today.”

During a memorial mass in Fortaleza, Sr. Clarice Garvey reminded everyone that Pauline, an excellent cook, had taught many women from the area how to bake bread. Sr. Clarice said:

“Let us remember now the person she was. Pauline was an alert, lovable, and efficient nurse. In her later years, Pauline had time to show her love for nature as she took care of the flowers, birds, and the herbs in her special garden. The children of the neighbourhood had full access to her time and house. She kept toys and games for them as they enjoyed endless hours playing there. Their parents always knew they were safe at Pauline’s house. She was a good counsellor with the capacity to listen with the wisdom she had learned over the long years of her life. Pauline lived a true spirituality based on a strong faith and a close relationship with God. The proof of this was the joy she received from associating with the poor and marginalized. For everyone who knew her, Pauline was a friend, companion and much loved OLM.”

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