Gina Massey Drive, Newfoundland and Labrador

Fair address: Western Newfoundland Regional Heritage Fair

Project: The Presentation Sisters of Newfoundland and Labrador

My project describes the history of the Presentation Sisters who came to Newfoundland from Ireland over 178 years ago to educate catholic children. I looked at many of their accomplishments and challenges for the future.

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

I was amazed to find out how many sisters there used to be in Newfoundland (444 was the greatest number at one time) as most of the convents I have visited are nearly empty. There are only 110 sisters left in Newfoundland, and nearly all of them are quite elderly.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

I have learned that many of the remaining Presentation Sisters have some very interesting stories to share. By talking to people at the Heritage Fair, I learned that many people's lives have been touched by the sisters.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

The sisters dedicated nearly all their lives to helping others and lived owning very little. This is quite different from the way many Canadians live now.