Jackson an innovator in religious education

By ANH HOANG
WCR Staff Writer
Scarborough, Ont.

Jackson had a number of university degrees under her belt and knew how to use them. For the most part, she was a quiet person, but could be outspoken when she needed to be, never intimidated in voicing her opinions.

"She was no shrinking violet in a sense that when she had something to say, she would say it," said Franciscan Father Brian Burns, judicial vicar of the Alberta Regional Tribunal.

"Academically, she was bright, quite gifted. She was able to express herself very intelligently. She always valued her opinions and always shared it.

"She had a delightful sense of humour, rather dry."

Jackson, 86, passed away unexpectedly Feb. 19 in Scarborough, Ont..

Born in Peterborough, Ont., and raised in Dartmouth, N.S., Jackson was one of seven children.

She entered the Sisters of Service in 1936 following a stint as a school teacher. She received bachelor of arts and education degrees from St. Francis Xavier University and a master's in theology from the University of Notre Dame.

She continued teaching throughout Canada and later supervised religious education programs with the Catholic school systems in Edmonton and Fort McMurray.

She co-piloted the Canadian Catechism and lectured and taught on this subject throughout Canada, the United States and Germany.

She spent 17 years with the tribunal in various capacities including judge of the tribunal and defender of the bond.

"She was an active person," said Burns. "She had a long career already before she came here. When she retired she went and got her degree in canon law at St. Paul's University (Ottawa).

"She's very dedicated."

Msgr. Francis Patsula also worked with Jackson during her term at the Tribunal. He reflected on her commitment and dedication to her work.

"All the years that she was with us, I really appreciated all the work she had done here," Patsula said.

"She had been here for a long time and really knew the area. She enjoyed her time here. I know that she was really sorry when she had to leave."

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