The Little Sisters of the Poor

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXII, Issue 4, 28 January 1904, Page 6

The Little Sisters of the Poor

In the splendid work which the Little Sisters of the Poor do in Auckland, they have no other source of revenue (writes our correspondent) than the kind and charitable hearts of the people. From house to house they go on their daily mission begging alms for the support of the aged and infirm. The response to their appeal is, no doubt, creditable to thevdonors, but not sufficient for the ever-increasing demand made upon the energies of the Little Sisters in Auckland. A suitable Home is urgently required so that the Sisters may not be compelled to turn away those deserving old people who crave admission to their holy asylum, where they can spend the remainder of their days in peace. In the Homes conducted by the Little Sisters the aged are kept scrupulously clean, well nursed, and clothed in comfortable wearing apparel ; and the only passport for admission is old age and poverty and the recommendation of some person who will guarantee that the applicant will conform to the rules of the institution. It matters not whether they are Catholics, Protestants, or pagans. All receive the same tender attention. No distinction whatever is made among the anmates. But, as already stated, the Home of the Little Sisters in Auckland is taxed to its utmost capacity. They therefore appeal to the charitable to help them to build a larger Home. When we reflect on the awful calamities that result from outbreaks of fire in wooden buildings, we must admit that we are in duty bound to contribute something to make the lives of the aged and infirm more secure. It should be borne in mind that this great undertaking will throw an increased amount of labor on the Little Sisters, for the number of inmates wi'U be greatly augmented. It goes without saying, therefore, that the ever-generous Catholic public will not falter in lending! a helping hand to these good nuns to pay off the debffc incurred in providing a clean, safe, and comfortable brick Home for the aged poor. The foundation stone will be laid by his Lordship Bishop Lenihan on March 6, and it is to be hoped t/hat those who are prevented by distance and other causes from attending this philanthropic and moving ceremony will remit a donation according to their means (the smallest sum accepted) to the Superior of the Little Sisters of the Poor, Shelly Beach Road, Auckland.