“Let us love the Will of God above all things; let us cling to it no matter what happens, in life, in death, in sickness, in health. This is the source of all peace and happiness.”
– SAINT MADELEINE SOPHIE BARAT
We recently learned of the passing of Sister Philippa Wittering, a much-loved staff member at Duchesne College for many years. She died at Baradene, Auckland on 18 October 2021. Many of our Duchesne alumnae would remember Sister Wittering and her uncanny memory for birthdays. We are keeping Philippa and the community at Baradene in our prayers.
The following reflections were written by Sister Philippa Wittering and published in 1989 in Duchesne College’s ‘From Acorn to Oak’ publication.
Looking back over my fourteen years at Duchesne College, from 17 January 1968 to 17 January 1982, various thoughts come to me. Living at a University College was a new venture for me, though indeed the late 1960s were a new venture for all of us. It took me a while to settle into the rhythm of the College and University life, but I think that anyone who has spent time in Queensland senses the friendliness of the people, and their acceptance of those who work among them.
The staff, with whom I was closely associated, have a marked dedication to the College and consider their work there not just a job, but a contribution to the whole community. Many staff members gave, and some are still giving, years of devoted service to the College. One such was Mrs Merl Le Good, whose death we heard of with sorrow in March 1987. My years at Duchesne College were very happy and fulfilling.
Image courtesy of Baradene College of the Sacred Heart
