Dozens of people turned out Saturday to show Sister Clare Meyer their appreciation as she celebrated her 100th birthday at the Convent of St. Helena.

Teary-eyed, she smiled Saturday as friends and fellow nuns sang tributes, read poems and recalled memories of her. Her birthday was Tuesday.

"It was very moving," she said. "I was afraid I was going to burst into tears. I never expected all of this."

Despite the variety of tributes, there were two common focuses: Sister Meyer's great love for people and the impact she has had on people.

"I love getting to know all of these people," Sister Meyer said. "It was very heartwarming to see how much they care about me."

Sister Meyer has been a nun since 1953 and at the convent since 1962. Her advice is to belong to a church and have faith.

"God's always been a part of my life, and I always loved coming to church. Faith is really important to me," she said.

She said that reaching 100 years old is a blessing, but that doesn't mean she feels old.

"It doesn't feel any different than being 10," she said.

Reach Nikasha Dicks at (706) 823-3336 or nikasha.dicks@augustachronicle.com.