Sister Mary Aloysius
of the Blessed Sacrament (Marques), O.C.D.
Jubilee Mass of Thanksgiving
Sunday, June 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.
St. Joseph Chapel at Santa Teresita
819 Buena Vista Street, Duarte, CA 91010
Father John Henry Hanson, O. Praem (Celebrant)
What are some quotes that you’ve carried with you?
“We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”
– Romans 8:28
“Keep your eyes on Jesus and let the world roll by.”
– Mother Luisita
“Jesus does not demand great actions from us but simply surrender and gratitude.”
– St. Thérèse of Lisieux
What have you learned during your years in Carmel?
In a recent conference, Fr. Daniel Chowning, O.C.D. stated the following words of wisdom which struck me very much: “God is the soul’s health. Prayer heals us, changes us. God transforms the person as he/she surrenders and opens oneself. Healing is a thirst for God. Our Carmelite mystics are explorers of the human heart. They knew themselves as loved by God and therefore found a new freedom.”
Each day in Carmel I have increasingly tried to open myself to God’s transforming work in my soul. To simply allow “The Potter” to do His work. I fall and get up again—always trusting in His Mercy, remembering I am His beloved daughter.
As you think of your jubilee, what comes to mind?
As I approach my 50th Year of Religious Life, I have recently been pondering the words of St. John of the Cross, “It is very important and fitting, if you desire to possess profound peace in your soul and attain perfection, that you surrender your whole will to God, that it may thus be united with Him.” I am so thankful for the many priests, religious and lay faithful that God has placed in my path that show me daily how to surrender to God’s will for His greater honor and glory! Jesus grant that each of us may do Your loving will more perfectly each day. I am so grateful for your numerous blessings!
How has your journey in Carmel brought you to be the sister you are today?
I remember with gratitude the many religious and lay professionals who helped me while I was teaching, and the many parents and students who also helped mold me. In a special way, I remember with eternal fondness the many people I met and interacted with during the various times I was missioned to Loretto Catholic School in Douglas, Arizona. Through the ups and downs of life, I have come to realize how utterly patient, kind and compassionate God has been with me. As a result, I am slowly becoming more empathetic and understanding to the shortcomings of others. We are all broken people in need of His healing and His Divine touch.