[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 101 (Wednesday, July 8, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1668]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENTS OF SISTER ALINE ANTIL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BILL DELAHUNT

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 8, 2009

  Mr. DELAHUNT. Madam Speaker, I rise today so that my colleagues in 
the House of Representatives can join me in recognizing the 
distinguished and selflessly dedicated contributions of Sister Aline 
Antil, a native daughter of New Bedford, Massachusetts.
  In February of 1959, Ms. Antil first entered the Congregation of the 
Holy Cross, a spiritual decision that would shape not only her life but 
those of the countless women, children, and families whom she has 
touched through her missionary work. Across New England--in North 
Grosvernordale, Connecticut; in West Franklin, New Hampshire; and in 
Springfield, Massachusetts--Sister Aline used her infectiously positive 
attitude and love of learning to instill her elementary- and middle-
school-aged pupils with wisdom, knowledge, and the highest moral 
values.
  For the past 37 years, Sister Aline has served in various parts of 
Haiti, a country whose population depends upon the humanitarian efforts 
of those compassionate enough to answer the calling. Most recently, she 
served as principal of Ecole Presbyterale de Fleurenceau, St. Marc, a 
position she has held in other locations. In a country where most 
Americans would find conditions appalling, Sister Aline Antil has never 
looked down on her students with pity. Rather, she has treated them as 
equals and taken great pride in the opportunity to help them learn, 
grow, and understand their valuable role in the world.
  Sister Aline speaks fluent French, English, and of course, Creole, 
the native tongue of the people with whom she lives and works. Those 
who know her well--her family and peers--will tell you that no matter 
where she is in a room, you'll know her by her laughter. Her optimism 
and enthusiastic love of life know no bounds, a trait that has allowed 
her to thrive and brought her comfort under trying circumstances that 
most of us can only imagine.
  As she celebrates her 50th Jubilee this week, Sister Aline Antil 
deserves the highest praise and recognition for the difference she has 
made in lives both young and old. Her charitable example is a story of 
hope, love, and inspiration at a time when we all need it. Thank you, 
Sister Aline Antil, for your exemplary work. I wish you health, 
happiness, and all good things in the years to come.

                          ____________________