Farewell to Sister Eileen
30 December 2009
There was shock and genuine sadness in women@the well when the news broke that Sr. Eileen was leaving Kings Cross and returning to the North. She was one of the founding members and a great favourite with staff, volunteers and all the women who come to the “well”.
Eileen was most at home in the kitchen and behind the serving counter. She and Virginia our cook had become really good friends. Occasionally she would venture and out join the women at other activities.
One of her great strengths was the ability to engage people in conversation. Even the most withdrawn women responded to her warm smile and were soon talking with her.
Eileen being Eileen hoped she could just slip away quietly but there was no way that that was going to happen. Immediately the news broke she received cards and small gifts and plans were put in place for a farewell celebration.
Folks turned out in force on the last drop-in day before her departure and even though she had dreaded the occasion I believe she really enjoyed it and was both surprised and very moved at the affection, shown and the kind words spoken, to say nothing of the farewell gifts.
Eileen, as many of you know is not well at present and faces surgery shortly. I am sure we speak for all of you when we say,
“Eileen we are holding you in prayer and wish you a speedy and full recovery.”
