"Focus on our Parishioners"-Sister Ida
I was born Ida Gregoire in Cohoes, New York. My parents were Marie Cecile and Theodore Gregoire. I have 2 older sisters, Marie and Yvette. We were raised in a Catholic family. I attended a bi-lingual elementary school, then went to Keveny Memorial High School in Cohoes. Upon graduation in 1965, I joined the Sisters of Mercy in Albany NY. I had met them in high school. I received my Associates of Science degree in Nursing from Maria College, in Albany. I furthered my nursing education in Utica and Syracuse. Then, in pursuit of continuing my education, I left family, friends and religious community in the Capital District area for new employment with the Arthritis Foundation where I had to create new and various support systems. My first Syracuse contact in 1981 was Sister Gloria DeCotis, CSJ who lived at St Vincent’s convent. I lived there nearly three and a half decades, until its closing. I always maintained my Sisters of Mercy roots and philosophy. The CSJs opened their home to me and have given me many treasured memories. Simultaneously, in 1981, the Aloi family befriended me and the relationship continues today. I have the honor of being Rachelle’s son, Ethon’s Godmother. Rachelle stated that they don’t want to get disconnected from me, and I happily agree!
My employment opportunities varied from pre-natal care to end of life care. As my life progressed, new professional prospects evolved. Life Coaching and Hypnotism have always fascinated me. I pursued credentials in this field and now currently help people in new ways.
The congregation of St Vincent de Paul have been very influential in my life. I love being attached to their spirit of hospitality to all. They say it and mean it, and they have given it to me.
As for my participation in the parish life here at St Vincent’s, I decided to give back by becoming a member of the parish council, an Usher at 4pm weekly liturgy mass, and have completed a 3-year term as a board member of the St. Vincent Day Care. I have led many presentations for the Happy Roamers, and taught Faith Formation during Gail Roach’s tenure as Director of Religious Education. Most recently, I joined the Youth Committee. I came to Syracuse for a job and I have not left yet!
Thank you, St Vincent’s Parishioners!
Comments