Thursday, January 23, 2020
Sister Margaret Duffy was in charge of Syracuse Diocese Ministry for the Deaf, including Binghamton, when
I was realizing I was only pretending to be a hearing person, but had no clue how to be a Deaf person. She
opened doors for me in many ways.
She made sure the Catholic Deaf Community had the support and opportunity to have the fullest inclusion
in the Church. She and her dear friend, Sister Ellen, were not only a vital part of my own religious development,
but also important to my two hearing children. She would have been thrilled to know my daughter's 6th child
is Deaf and preparing now for her First Communion.
Sister Margaret encouraged me to become a Commissioned Lay Minister many years ago, and this involved
interpreters for all the classes, workshops and retreats for over two years. When our chaplain was reassigned,
she supported my efforts to continue all the services the Southern Region Catholic Deaf Community had become accustomed to.
She had so much energy, enthusiasm and love for the Deaf. She was known throughout New York State
and throughout the country, through her support and involvement in the NYS Pastoral Workers with the Deaf,
and National Catholic Office for the Deaf, and the International Catholic Deaf Association. Sister Margaret
certainly made a huge impact on many lives, including mine and my family.
Sister Margaret, Enjoy this next chapter in your heavenly home and keep watch on us who appreciate you,
miss you and love you!
Jane Long and family
