Photo by Mark Comiskey, The Northfield News Normande Messier The Parish of St. John the Evangelist celebrated the many contributions of Normande Messier has given to the parish at a potluck supper following the evening Mass last Saturday.

She was presented with a corsage recognizing, honoring and thanking her for her many years of service.

Normande Anna (Fortin) Messier is the wife of Albert Messier of South Northfield. Normande was born in Rock Island, Quebec and came to Northfield to live. Normande and Albert are the parents of four daughters, Sylvia, wife of Kenneth Billings, Diane, Rose, and Rita and the grandparents of Joshua, Katy and Nicholas Billings. They have three great-grandchildren. Normande has been a devoted Mother, Granadmother and Greatgrandmother.

Normande was recognized for her longtime service to the parish. She has been an important part of the Religious Education program working with the First Communion classes. Many children have been presented with personalized banners that she constructed to help them remember the importance of that special day. She has shared her gift and love of music with the parish. For many years she was a faithful member of the choir. It is not unusual for her to play her harmonica as accompaniment with other musicians. Normande has kept the church and rectory clean for many years. Albert and Normande often have decorated the church for special occasions and holidays. Her quiet devotion to these works has often been overlooked.

Jim Jones was the master of Ceremonies for the occasion. Jim led the blessing before the meal. Speaking for the parish family, he presented the plaque, which expressed the parish's recognition and gratitude for her faithful work. In a short speech, Normande thanked everyone for honoring her.

The parish supper was well attended by her family and friends. Residents of the Veteran's Program on Vine Street were invited to attend. The food was plentiful and delicious. It was a fine tribute to a remarkable lady.