Sr. Celestine McKenna of Cinderford died after a long illness, on the 9th December 2019. She came to Cinderford in 1965, aged 23, when St. Anthony's Convent School was in its infancy and became Headteacher in the early 1980's.

Sr. Celestine touched many hearts and her impact on the lives of many people in the Forest of Dean has been immense. 

Sr. Celestine was born in Glasgow but made the Forest of Dean her much loved home. She dedicated her life working tirelessly for the school, the Church and to serving the people in the Forest.

Her driven and devoted faith always shone through and it was this that made her set such high standards and expectations for herself, the pupils and her staff. Under her care, guidance and dedication  the school flourished. The children were renowned for their high academic achievements, beautiful manners, excellent behaviour and kindness as she lead them in supporting many charities. Nothing but the Best for the children, school and church and later on when she retired in 2008 the parishioners too.

She was an accomplished artist and musician and was known as the 'Singing Nun'. Sr. Celestine produced many memorable concerts with  every child taking part enthusiastically and she was extremely keen to encourage their talents.

Sr. Celestine was very much loved and respected by all the children, many of whom kept in touch . She loved hearing from them when they wrote or visited, keeping up to date with their news and successes.

Her beloved Our Lady of Victories RC Church, benefited from her devotion. She created exquisite vestments, floral arrangements and displays appropriate to the churches calendar year. Sister played the organ and led the singing right up until the week before her death. The town would join in with Carol singing in Cindeford Triangle as the children created the tableau. Through this and other work, considerable funds were raised for charity. She linked the school with local care homes, taking the children to visit and hosting parties for those who were unable to travel.

Sr. Celestine's door was always open to everyone. She listened with kindness, compassion and wisdom, offering practical and spiritual help. 

She was always full of fun, had a wonderful sense of humour and loved to put on events and parties which would be much enjoyed by all.

Sr. Celestine exemplified the three theological virtues- faith, hope and charity. Her faith was 'unshakeable', her hope was sure and her charity unlimited.

She will be greatly missed but her example and love will always remain in our hearts.