Transitions: Last of Grey Nuns Retire from Mary Immaculate Health/Care Services

Mary Immaculate Health/Care Services (MIHCS) marks the end of an era this month with the retirement of the remaining two Grey Nuns working at the facility. Sister Theresa Rousseau and Sister Irene Harper have served MIHCS in a variety of capacities earning the love and respect of residents and staff for three decades. They will be relocating to Youville Place in Lexington (MA), the home base for the order in Massachusetts.

The Grey Nuns originally settled in Lawrence in 1867. They came to assist Fr. James H.D. Taafe who requested their presence to care for the orphans, destitute and “sick young girls” of the mills. During the next century, the Grey Nuns became a permanent fixture in Lawrence serving the city during depression, poor health conditions, strikes, unemployment and deprivation.

Over time, as the needs of the community changed, the Grey Nuns adapted their mission to care for the needs of the frail elderly. This new focus led to the development of MIHCS which today, stands as on of New England’s largest and most advanced complexes for the care of seniors.

“Sisters Irene and Theresa are truly beloved here at MIHCS,” said Barbara Grant, president and chief executive officer of MIHCS. “We have benefited from their love and guidance for many years. We hope they will visit often and wish them the very best as they settle into their new ministry in Lexington.”

A tea in their honor was held to mark the occasion, attended by many staff and members of the MIHCS family.