Getting to Know the Apostles- Week 73
Posted September 12, 2010
When did you enter the Congregation of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus?
I entered on August 25, 1962 - the Feast of St. Louis!
How did you come to know the sisters?
I was taught by our sisters at Cor Jesu Academy in St. Louis, MO.
What have been your ministries and where have you served?
I was a classroom teacher in various places: Bridgeport, Connecticut; Hamden, Connecticut; Melrose Park, Illinois; Johnston, Rhode Island; and St. Louis, Missouri. I then became involved in parish ministry, and for the last 15 years, I have served as a pastoral associate in three different parishes in St. Louis, Missouri.
What type of ministry are you involved in at this moment?
Currently I am the pastoral associate at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish in the North County of St. Louis (Spanish Lake).
What has been a special blessing that you have received in this or any of your ministries?
I have particularly enjoyed “variety” within my ministries, especially in my parish work. That has been such a grace for me.
Would you like to share a “joyful moment” or a special grace that you have received in any of your mission assignments?
In my work with the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) process, sometimes I can almost “see” God’s Spirit touching the hearts of the catechumens and candidates. RCIA is messy, but the God of Surprises is always present!
What hobbies or interests do you have when you are not working in your ministry?
I enjoy writing poetry, walking “Twister” (the rectory dog), and sitting, reading, and watching nature while relaxing on our lovely convent deck.
What has been the grace of living in community with other sisters?
I’ve often been the recipient of the many talents and gifts of the sisters with whom I have lived. That makes for richness in community living.
Have there been any challenges in living out your call as a religious sister?
Life is full of challenges! That’s true for any walk of life!
How do you spread devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus?
I try to be compassionate and caring in my ministry and in community life. For me that’s the best way to bring Jesus to others.
Do you have any other special devotions? How did this (these) devotion(s) come to be?
Rather than having special devotions, I do have a few special “saint” friends. Two of my favorites are St. Teresa of Avila and St. Pio.
If Mother Clelia were alive today what would you like to say to her?
“Please help me to know you better!” I often wonder what she would do in a certain situation in which I find myself. I often pray that we continue to learn more about her.
