A special Mass and reception to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Sisters of Providence in the West was held Nov. 6 at Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center.

The Sisters of Providence first arrived in Fort Vancouver, Wash., on Dec. 8, 1856. After establishing health care facilities throughout Washington, Alaska, Oregon and Montana, the Sisters of Providence later arrived in Southern California to establish Saint Joseph Hospital in Burbank in 1943.

The event honored four Sisters of Providence - one deceased and three retired - who were instrumental in the establishment and growth of Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center. They are:

Sister Mary Shearer, SP

Sister Mary Shearer, SP began her ministry in Burbank in 1953 as the nursing supervisor for the obstetrics unit at Saint Joseph Medical Center. After almost ten years is this position, she was called to minister in other Providence hospitals but returned to Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center in 1973 to minister to the patients through the Pastoral Care Department. She tended to the spiritual needs of the patients, families and staff for more than 25 years until her retirement in 1997.

Sister Flora Mary, SP

Sister Flora Mary, SP, began her work with Saint Joseph Medical Center as the first administrator of the hospital. She led the construction of the one-story, 100- bed structure in 1943. The hospital opened its doors in 1944 with 106 doctors and 150 employees. Sister Flora was the guiding force throughout the early development of Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center as it grew to meet the needs of our community.

Sister Rose Lulay, SP

Sister Rose Lulay, SP arrived in Burbank in 1956 to serve as the treasurer of Saint Joseph Medical Center, a position she held for 34 years. She believed it was a privilege to be associated with the healing process of our patients. Sister Rose served Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center for nearly 44 years. Sr. Rose Lulay remained true to her mission in caring for the elderly, the forsaken, the poor and the needy and answering any need that arose.

Sister Georgette Jean, SP

Sister Georgette Jean, SP, was one of these strong women who led Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center as the administrator from 1972-1978. Throughout the early years, Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center was under the watchful eyes of the Sisters of Providence, who held most of the leadership positions. During her service, Providence Saint Joseph grew in size and reputation. Through her empowering leadership lay men and women began to take on more responsibility for the continuation of this healthcare ministry. Today the Sisters of Providence continue in their leadership role as Sponsors of this ministry rather than in direct administrative roles.