100 not out for Sister Jude

From the Prestwich and Whitefield Guide, first published Saturday 25th Aug 2007.

A PRESTWICH nun's Scottish connection was well and truly brought to the fore as she celebrated her 100th birthday.

Sister Jude, who was born Margaret Collins, received personal birthday greetings from the Archbishop of Glasgow, the Most Reverend Mario Conti. They have known each other since the Archbishop was a curate.

He travelled south especially to be with Sister Jude as she celebrated her centenary at Nazareth House Nursing Home in Scholes Lane last Saturday.

And the Scottish flavour was further enhanced when Highland dancers put on a display during a special birthday party for Sister Jude. Another special guest was Bury's deputy mayor, Councillor Jack Walton.

Sister Jude, one of eight children, was born and raised on a farm in Lanark. She worked on the family farm for a number of years before entering the church. She spent some time at the Nazareth House residential home in London where she was mainly involved in looking after youngsters.

However, Sister Jude spent a remarkable 54 years at Nazareth House in Aberdeen where she cared for nursery children.

Sister Bernice, who is attached to Nazareth House in Prestwich, said: "I know Sister Jude quite well and last year when she was living in Aberdeen she was running around when she fell and broke her hip. It was after that when she came down here.

"She is more than happy to be here and is such a lovely lady who just loves people. She gets out each day and recently had a holiday in Ireland." A mass was held in the church attached to Nazareth House to celebrate Sister Jude's centenary, complete with seven priests, Archbishop Conti and some young musicians.

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