“Life is a gift and when it is long it is a privilege. The ‘wealth of many years’ is a wealth in terms of the persons themselves, their experience and history,” a quote from Pope Francis is how Sister Michaelita Popovice would best describe turning 80. Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen’s (CCDOM) employees gathered to celebrate the life of Sister Michaelita Popovice. Sister Michaelita has been a dedicated employee of Catholic Charities for 30 years and a religious in the Sisters of Mercy order for 60 years. As Program Director, Sister Michaelita’s role includes supervising staff, working closely with up to 60 volunteers, setting budgets, grant-writing, and community networking, to name a few. She is an active member in her community and belongs to the Warren County Housing Subcommittee, Warren County Hunger Coalition, and the Food Shed Alliance. Described by her supervisor as “living and breathing the mission of CCDOM,” Sister Michaelita serves as an example for all staff in the approach she uses when meeting a person. With a focus on encountering individuals where they are at, with a kind approach and a listening ear, and looking beyond disadvantages such as poverty and food insecurity, Sister Michaelita welcomes all those who enter the Social Service Center in Phillipsburg with compassion and warmth. We are thankful for Sister Michaelita’s many years of service and wish her many more wonderful birthdays to come! To learn more about Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen and its 100 programs and 20 service areas which provide a path to self-sufficiency and hope for a brighter future for people from all walks of life, all races, all religions and all economic levels, visit www.ccdom.org.