Lithgow’s Sister Anne Houston says she has lived a “blessed” life as she celebrated an incredible milestone of 50 years as a Josephite Nun on Tuesday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The much-loved Lithgow icon was recognised with a special mass at St Patrick’s Church on Tuesday and six of the parish priests Sister Anne has worked with were in attendance, along with a number of community representatives.
Sister Anne was modest about her achievement and said she preferred not to be the centre of attention, but appreciated the recognition.
“It’s wonderful that the parish and the community wanted to celebrate the occasion. It was a bit overwhelming to start with, I walked in and everyone was there, but once we started praying I settled down,” Sister Anne said.
“I don’t know where the 50 years has gone. It’s been a wonderful life and I have been blessed.”
Lithgow has also found a special place in Sister Anne’s heart, having spent more of her 50 years of service in the town that anywhere else.
“I love it. Thirteen of my 50 years have been spent here. It’s the longest I’ve been in any one place. I’m just happy to be here,” she said.
“I think the parish and the community is happy too. They’ve accepted me and that’s why I’m so happy to be here.”
Sister Anne’s parents met in Lithgow but they moved to Newcastle before she was born and she completed her education in the Hunter.
After school Sister Anne started nursing, before she was called.
“After I took my vows I became a teacher and I was a teacher for a number of years. I have also been a principal of schools,” she said.
“I moved into pastoral care and was in several places. I was at Lightning Ridge then I came here and I’ve been here ever since.”
Her role ensures Sister Anne is at both St Patrick’s and Le Salle schools almost daily, as well as interacting with large sections of the community and she said she wouldn’t change a thing.
“I’ve lived my religious life the best I can, with God’s help of course and I’ve had wonderful support, particularly here in Lithgow,” she said.