Obituary of Sister Margaret Ferris

Sister Margaret Ferris
The Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Canada, London Neighbourhood, announce the death of our dear Sister Margaret Ferris at the Residence of the Sisters of St. Joseph at 485 Windermere Road in London. Sister died peacefully on Sunday, November 12, accompanied on the last part of her journey by the Sisters along with her devoted relatives and friends. Sister Margaret, (formerly Sister Marie Thérèse) was born in London, Ontario, May 25, 1931 and joined the Community of the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1953. She is remembered with affection by all her CSJ Sisters as well as her sister-in-law, Mary Ferris (Harry), of Sarnia, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother, Kathleen (Jenkins) and her father Henry, her sisters, May O'Meara (Lorne), Eileen, and brothers Harry, and John (Joan). Sister Margaret began her career as a science teacher, guidance counsellor, and Vice Principal at St. Patrick's High School in Sarnia, and later became Principal at Mount St. Joseph Academy, London. Always interested in meeting unmet needs, she was instrumental in opening a home for teens in London (Internos1972-1977).  Sister Margaret later moved into retreat work and spiritual direction, and was named director of Medaille Retreat House.  Margaret served two terms in leadership within the Congregation, and served from 1985-2006 as professor of pastoral counselling at St. Peter's seminary.  She was sought out by many as a counsellor and spiritual director, and her published book, Compassioning, has been translated into many languages for use around the world.  Her life spoke eloquently of her own deep compassion, and her always wise and listening heart.  She will be missed by many whose lives she touched with gentle grace. All services will be held at the Sisters of St. Joseph Residence, 485 Windermere Road, London. Visitation will be on Thursday, November 16, 6:30 - 8:30 pm, with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, November 17, 11:00 am, with visitation from 9:30 am.  Father Francis O'Connor will preside, with Fathers Michael Prieur and Richard Charrette concelebrating.  Interment in St. Peter's Cemetery, London.  (John T. Donohue Funeral Home)