Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Anne Jude Van Lanen

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Wrightstown, Wisconsin

Year of profession: 1957

Education, schools attended, and degrees received: 

St. Agnes School of Nursing, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Anne Jude has ministered:

Sister Anne Jude served in CSA sponsored hospitals in Wisconsin, Kansas, and Waspam, Nicaragua, from 1955 to 1973.

Sister Anne Jude was a member of the CSA General Council from 1973 to 1977.  She served at Hospice Hope from 1978 to 1990.  From 1990 to 1996, she served in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua.

She was the CSA Retirement Center Coordinator from 1998 to 2002.  Since 2003 Sister Anne Jude has been with Agnesian HealthCare Spiritual Care Service.

Thoughts on Religious Life: 

"I have had innumerable opportunities for personal and spiritual growth because of my 'call' to religious life as a Sister of St. Agnes.

My life has been immeasurably enriched by those with whom I've lived and worked, and by those to whom I've ministered over the years.

It has been a privilege for me to work among the materially poor, and the sick & dying. My life has been enriched by those I've served.

God has been good and I am grateful."

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Bernadine Dreiling

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Victoria, Kansas

Year of Profession: 1937

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

American School, Chicago, Illinois
Font Bonne College, St. Louis, Missouri - Food Service Supervisors

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Bernadine has ministered:

From 1937 to 1989, Sister Bernadine served at parishes in Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Kansas, and Michigan providing housekeeping, cooking, and sewing services. 

Thoughts on Religious Life:

At 88 years old, Sister Bernadine is grateful that she has the ability to be able to continue to live a full life.  "I am still able to walk, see and hear.  I have no complaints."

 The following article was written by Sister Marie Wagner, in May 1998 for the CSA Newsletter focusing on Sister Bernadine:

"In our 1998 Birthdays and Necrology, CSA lists ten sisters with Dreiling surnames.  Among them we find Sister Bernadine.  At sixteen, she heard the call to CSA and with her mother's comment that, "It's a good spiritual life," Teresa responded to the call.  With her came seemingly boundless energy and the will to serve.  Homemaking duties of all kinds and occasional paint jobs kept her attention.  "Painting is my hobby,"she states.

One incident which Sister recalls is the time when, as candidate, she coaxed another candidate into the dumb-waiter, routed the conveyance up to the priests' pantry and went about her work.  Someone did, after a while, hear the knocks coming from the area and responded.  Another amusing experience occurred at Sister's 1997 Jubilee celebration in Kansas.  Nieces and nephews had dressed a life-sized wooden frame in Sister's painting regalia, which consisted of paint-splattered cap, shirt, overalls and shoes.  Bernie dubbed the display her twin sister.

A series of bone fractures prompted Sister's moving to Nazareth Heights on June 26, 1996.  She was eighty years old in June 1998, and still didn't feel that she had retired.  She rose around 4:00 a.m. for her medication and could be found in chapel shortly after that.  Long prayer periods were a part of her day. As she noted: 'After all, I have many, many relatives to pray for and I'm preparing for the pearly gates.' 

For as long as her health holds out, she is dedicated to prayer and service.  She sees some need and then she responds.  How many wheelchair residents has she transported?  How many items of clothing has she made or fixed?

Sister Bernadine was, is and, hopefully, will always be a lively person.  As she goes about responding to many needs about her, we must say that she is a young eighty-eight.  Like that little battery, she just keeps going and going and going." 

Name of Jubilarian:     Sister Bertha Ann Miller

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Decatur, Indiana

Year of Profession: 1947

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

Decatur Catholic High School - 1944     
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1944 -1954 - BS Education
Fort Hays State College, Hays, Kansas - Classes toward BS degree
Marian College of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, 1968 -1971 - Certificate in Theological Studies

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Bertha Ann has ministered:

From 1947 to 1978, Sister Bertha Ann taught 1st through 5th grades in schools in Wisconsin, Illinois, Kansas, and New York.  She also served as Librarian from 1976 to 1978 at St. Mary's School in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

From 1978 to 1986, Sister Bertha worked in the Business Office at St. Mary's Springs High School in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

From 1986 to 2006, she provided diocesan services at The Leo House in New York, New York.

Thoughts on Religious Life: 

"I am very thankful that God has given me this time.  Sixty years of trying to fulfill the Will of God in the service of those I came in contact with; whether these were children, teenagers,or adults. It seems impossible that 60 years have passed. I hope and pray that I have earned some small place in Heaven.

Satisfaction has come from the fact that I tried to bring individuals closer to Jesus by what I said or did in my daily work. I experience happiness today because of the kind treatment I received from my sister companions, in times of sickness, over the years.

There are many spiritual benefits that come from living this life-style: for instance; opportunities for daily Mass, praying together in community, days of recollection, retreat time, companionship with other sisters, and witnessing their good example.  However religious aren't perfect yet, so there will be differences to confront."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Bertha Bumann

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Altoona, Pennsylvania

Year of Profession: 1947

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

St. Mary - Primary
St. Agnes - Secondary
Marian College of Fond du Lac - College

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Bertha has ministered:

During her career, Sister Bertha taught primary and secondary grades in parish schools located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; Ellis, Kansas; Victoria, Kansas; Hays, Kansas; and Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua.  She also participated in formation work in Nicaragua.

Sister Bertha also served at The Leo House, a hospitality hotel owned by the Sisters of St. Agnes in New York City.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

What has it meant to you to be a religious for the number of years you are celebrating?
"Unbelievable with the grace of God"

What has given you a sense of satisfaction or happiness as you review your number of years as a religious?
"God's guiding hand and grace"

What would you want a woman, who is considering religious life, to know about this life style?
"Wide open for self-realization" 

Name of Jubilarian:     Sister Carla Crave
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Beloit, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1957

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

Brother Dutton Elementary School
Beloit Catholic High School, Beloit, Wisconsin - First Graduation Class-1954
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Education -1959
Loyola University, Illinois
St. Louis University
Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin - Ed.D.-1974

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Carla has ministered:

From 1958 to 1968, Sister Carla taught 2nd, 7th, & 8th grades in parish schools in Wisconsin, Indiana, and Illinois.

Sister Carla was Assistant Professor at Marian College of Fond du Lac from 1971 to 1981, in addition to serving as Chairperson of the Education Department from 1975 to 1981.

From 1981 to the present, Sister Carla has taught 7th & 8th grades in parish schools in Milwaukee.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"Fifty years ago, I answered God's call to fulfill my baptismal promises by living the vows of celibate chastity, poverty, and obedience as a Sister of St. Agnes.

For all these years, Jesus has been the center of my life; the one whose personal love, experienced in the Word, sacraments, nature, prayer, family, friends, students, and my sisters in community, has been more than any one life-time can hold.  Jesus' vision of a world of justice, peace, truth, and love has challenged my personal choices and encounters with others.  His mission to realize this vision and to spread the Good News of God's unconditional, everlasting love for each and all of us continues to be the reason for and the message of my life.  All my religious life, it has been my privilege and the source of great joy to share in this mission of Jesus through my teaching ministry in Catholic schools.

My vocation is, as said in the business world, an offer I could not refuse.  It is an invitation I am blessed to be given.  It is a gift I accept gratefully anew each day.  Religious life is my way of living as each Christian must - in faith, hope, and love." 

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Claude Feldner

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:  St. Cloud, Wisconsin

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

St. Claudius Grade School, St. Cloud, Wisconsin - (2 room school house, 8 years of formal education)
St. Agnes Convent, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Kansas State Teachers College, Hays, Kansas - BA in Music (Later named Fort Hays State University)
De Paul University, Chicago, Illinois - MA in Music Education
New York Pius X Institute - Gregorian Chant Study

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Claude has ministered:

Sister Claude made her first profession in 1917.  Over the next 6 years she taught music to grade school students in Hays, Kansas. In 1923 Sister returned to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, teaching music to young novices at the Motherhouse until 1964.

From 1946 - 1962 Sister Claude served as directress of candidates, postulants, novices, and junior sisters. Sister also taught Music at Marian College from 1936 - 1945, and again from 1962 - 1964. 

For the next ten years Sister taught in St. Mary's School, Decatur, Indiana and St. Mary's, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. From 1974 - 1982 Sister taught in North Fond du Lac, at Presentation School.

In 1982 Sister Claude moved to Nazareth Heights to begin her journey through retirement. Today she continues to thrive in our retirement campus in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin at the age of 108, and celebrating 90 years as a professed Sister of St. Agnes.

Thought on Religious Life:

Sister Claude decided to become a nun at an early age. "Our house was at the foot of a hill the church was on. The Sisters would walk back and forth every day (from convent to church) saying their office (prayers known as liturgy of the hours) to themselves. I always watched them go by, and I told my mother I would be one of them when I grow up."

One of Sister Claude's primary ministries throughout her religious life was serving as musician and music teacher. Speaking of her musician experiences she shares: "I always worked for perfection in Church Music and I have a special love of chanting." One can still walk past Sister's room today and hear her singing songs, especially hymns to the Blessed Mother.

Sister Claude was directress of women in formation for many years.  She still remembers every one of the novices she was responsible for, and is proud of those years and her ministry!

Sister Claude's advice to anyone looking for her secret to longevity in religious life: "Take it as it comes!"

Name of Jubilarian:     Sister David Ennis
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Beloit, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1947

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

St. Catherine High School, Detroit, Michigan
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1944-1954 - BS in Education
St. Catherine, St. Paul, Minnesota - 1960-1964 - BS in Library Science
Siena Heights,  Adrian, Michigan -1970-1973 - M.E., Administration & Sup.
Ball State, Muncie, Indiana - 1974 - Credits for above degree
Numerous additional credits over the following years -1976 -1990

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister David has ministered:

From 1947 to 1970, Sister David served at parish schools in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Illinois, and New York where she taught school.  

Sister David was the Principal at parish schools in which she served in Wisconsin and New York from 1970 to 1991.  Following completion of serving as teacher and principal at numerous schools, Sister David served as Librarian at St. John the Baptist in Jefferson, Wisconsin, for a period of time. 

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"As a Sister of St. Agnes for sixty years, I have received more than enough opportunities for my spiritual and professional growth through retreats, workshops, and courses in education.  The help that I have received spiritually and educationally from my Sisters in community has likewise been invaluable.  I could always depend on someone to give me help and or advice.

My life has been enriched by numerous contacts with the laity in connection with the parishes and parish schools and the insights they brought to meetings.  Where once the choices of serving the Church professionally were quite limited to Sisters, now they can choose from a wide variety of ministries and be provided with the education needed to pursue them.

I am deeply grateful to CSA for all that I have received as a member of this Congregation."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Dianne Bergant
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Milwaukee, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1957

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

 Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Education
 St. Louis University - MA Scripture-1970
 St. Louis University - PhD Scripture-1975

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Dianne has ministered:

From 1959 to 1969, Sister Dianne taught 7th and 8th grades in parish schools in Illinois and Wisconsin.

Sister Dianne served as a General Councilor of the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes from 1973 to 1977 and also taught at Marian College during that time. 

Sister Dianne has been a professor at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, Illinois, from 1978 to the present.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"What I have most valued as a religious has been the opportunity to live in a religious culture, one that has emphasized the search for God and the deeper meaning of every aspect of life.  I have come to appreciate and to cherish people in a way I may not have otherwise.  This perspective has been the context within which I have ministered in the field of education.

When I taught junior high school, I saw my task as setting students on fire with the desire to learn and then providing them with materials to help them.  Teaching in a School of Theology, I am involved in the preparation of future ministers.  As a teaching biblical theologian, I both interpret our biblical tradition and teach others how to do it.  As a writing biblical theologian, I share both my interpretation of the biblical text and what I consider important contemporary implications of that tradition.  In these ways I am responding to the biblical injunction:  'Teach the gospel to the whole world.'

I would want any woman considering religious life to recognize the remarkable religious culture within which we live, a culture that encourages the search for God and that espouses values that can make a difference in the lives of others.  I would want her to appreciate the support that can be gained from a community of women committed to these values."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Esperanza Rico
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Matagalpa, Nicaragua
 
Year of Profession: 1957

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

Corazon de Jesus, Granada, Nicaragua - Small private Kindergarten, Matagalpa, Waspam, Puerto Cabezas and St. Agnes Convent, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin (Attended workshops but never earned a degree)

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Esperanza has ministered:

From 1957 to the present, Sister Esperanza has taught Preschool, Kindergarten, and 1st through 3rd grades in primary schools throughout Nicaragua; in Puerto Cabezas, Managua, La Cañada, Belén and Waspam. 

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"For me, the Religious Life is living in union with our Lord Jesus by means of personal, community and liturgical prayer.  What has given me much happiness and joy is to have the privilege of being sent to fulfill the mission of Jesus wherever God has permitted me to work with the children, and help them know Jesus and God, so they may love and serve God.  Another joy and happiness is to be a Sister of St. Agnes."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Jean Steffes
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

 St. Joseph's Elementary School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
 St. Mary's Springs, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
 Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BA English
 De Paul University, Chicago, Illinois - MA in English, Counseling, Human Services
 University of San Francisco, California - MA Theology

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Jean has ministered:

From 1966 to 1982, Sister Jean taught high school students at Catholic high schools in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Elmhurst, Illinois.  She served as Regional Coordinator for CSA from 1982 to 1985. 

Sister Jean served as General Superior of CSA from 1985 to 1993.  She ministered in the office of Religious/Missions in the Diocese of Phoenix, Arizona, from 1993 to 2004.

Since 2004 Sister Jean has served in the Office of Religious for the Diocese of Phoenix, Arizona. Currently Sister Jean is Chancellor in the Diocese.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"The opportunity to serve God's people as teacher, leader, and administrator in a variety of roles has been a real joy for me.

The Church has so many facets - Catholics are a delight and challenge.  We help each other grow as we search for new ways to respond to the on-going needs and realities of God's people.  God never fails us.

It has been my privilege to be a Sister of St. Agnes.  I entered in 1964 and have found CSA to be my home - spiritually and personally.  The Mission of CSA has given me the opportunity to be made ever so rich through the ministries that have been entrusted to me.

The richness of community life, spiritual enrichment, has been a beacon of hope for me.  God has blessed me with a wonderful community.  I would say to be a young woman interested in religious life - Come and see!"

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Joleen D. Retzer
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Milwaukee, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

 Mother of Perpetual Help Grade School, Milwaukee, Wisconsin - 1960
 St. Mary's Springs High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1964
 Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS-1968
 St. Scholastica, Duluth, Minnesota, MA in Education-1977

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Joleen has ministered:

From 1968 to 1975, Sister Joleen taught 1st, 4th, & 5th grades in parish schools in Minnesota and Indiana.

From 1975 to 1984, she taught 4th through 8th grade Mathematics in parish schools in New York and Wisconsin.  Sister Joleen has taught 6th through 8th grade Science since 1984 in parish schools in New Mexico

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"These past forty years as a Sister of St. Agnes have unfolded beauty, mystery, service, and the faithful presence of a loving God.  Having entered religious life with the dream of working in our northern Michigan orphanages as a pediatric nurse, I was quickly redirected into the classroom and parish life . . . much to my surprise, but with no regrets.  Never did I dream God would bring me so many unknowns, challenges, discoveries, and deep rich cultures.

Throughout the years, my family, my CSA community, all those with whom and to whom I have ministered, and various events in my life have nourished me on my journey.  I've never met a person who hasn't reflected something of God's message to me.  I feel very blessed having experienced pre and post Vatican II, knowing now that everything 'living' changes, develops and becomes.  My life as a religious sister has opened me to the unique diversity of God expressed in nature, events, people and self."

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Joseph McArdle

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Year of Profession: 1947

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

St. Mary's Springs, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1936-1940
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1940-1948 - BS Education
Fort Hays State College, Hays, Kansas - 1950-1953 - Extra Credits
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1958 -1962 - Extra Credits
Fordham University, New York - 1964-1967 - MS in Educational Psychology

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Joseph has ministered:

From 1947 to 2000, Sister Joseph taught 1st through 3rd grades and Special Education in schools in Wisconsin, Kansas, Indiana, and New York. 

From 2000 to 2001, Sister Joseph was a volunteer at B.A.S.E. teaching special education.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"I have been very happy as a member of the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes.  During my whole life everything was so nice.  If you are looking for satisfaction in life, there isn't a better place to find it than as a religious."

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Judine Ebsch

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Manitowoc, Wisconsin

Year of Profession: 1937

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

Menominee High School, Menominee, Michigan
Convent, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin -1935

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Judine has ministered:

From 1937 to 1991, Sister Judine Ebsch served at parishes in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana, and at St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac, providing services which included care of the elderly, serving as the sacristan, caring for pre-schoolers, serving in the infirmary, housekeeping and cooking services, and visiting the sick.  Since 1991, she has been a volunteer at St. Agnes Hospital and St. Agnes Convent.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

Sister Judine offers the following: "I have felt graced to be called upon to sit with people when they are dying.  It has given me such joy to see the Lord in each person I have served."  She offers the following poem to share with readers:

                                                My Star

Are you searching, searching for your 'Star' to make your world more bright?
Just say a prayer and trust in Him and all will turn out right!
I saw my star and followed it like the three Wise Men of old
It stopped over Fond du Lac, East Division Street
And once I was inside the door, I found my joy complete.
I've never fully realized the blessings I've acquired
But like the three Wise Men of old,
They set my heart on fire.
It matters not the work I do if it be great or small
It only matters how well it's done and if I gave my all!

                                                Sister Judine Ebsch

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Judith Vander Grinten
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Eden, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

 St. Mary's, Eden, Wisconsin
 St. Mary's Springs High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
 Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BA Education
 Marygrove College, Detroit, Michigan - M.Ed
 University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Wisconsin - 1986-1988, MSW

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Judith has ministered:

From 1968 to 1981, Sister Judith taught 3rd through 8th grades at parish schools in Wisconsin, New York, and Indiana.

Sister Judith was with Shalom Ministries of Chicago, Illinois, from 1981 to 1982.  She served at Catholic Charities, Refugee Resettlement in St. Paul, Minnesota from 1982 to 1986.  She was the Director of the Service Center of Catholic Social Services in Mobile, Alabama, from 1988 to 2001.

Sister Judith now serves as Local Coordinator at Nazareth Court & Center in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, and has been serving in this ministry from 2002 to the present.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"Forty years a vowed religious!  Incredible!  In 1967 when I made my vows, I, along with the Church, entered a long journey guided by Vatican II.  As with the Catholic Church, these forty past years have been a time of change and growth for me.  Always I felt the challenge to use gifts that I was discovering within myself.  As usual, there were times of struggle and feelings of aloneness and yet, throughout this journey, I have known the support of my God and my religious community.

As CSA declared its option for the poor, I felt myself called and supported to serve those who were struggling for basic survival needs.  In that role, I saw myself as 'midwife,' helping others to make steps toward a new life.  Not only was I privileged to serve but I also was gifted!

And now, as I journey with our retired sisters, I continue to see my role as 'midwife,' helping our sisters' journey to a new life.  What a blessing it is to be part of that journey!"

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Kathleen Cook
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Brownsville, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

 St. Mary's Elementary
 St. Mary's Spring Academy, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
 Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Education
 University of Phoenix, Arizona - Graduate Studies
 University of Arizona - Graduate Studies

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Kathleen has ministered:

From 1968 to 1996, Sister Kathleen taught 2nd through 6th grades in parish schools in Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Arizona.

From 2000 to January 2007, Sister Kathleen provided secretarial support at Forgach House Domestic Crisis Shelter in Sierra Vista, Arizona.  Since January 2007, she has been an Administrative Secretary at Catholic Community Services-Bisbee Office in Bisbee, Arizona.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"Community is the first thought that came to mind as important when considering what it means to live religious life.  As a fifteen year old I saw and felt it at an 'open house' retreat at the Motherhouse.  It called to me and so I responded.  Here I am 46 years later and community is still valued.

My sense of satisfaction comes in the knowledge that I've never been afraid of learning something new.  I call new things adventures.  I took the challenge of teaching, made it an adventure and found it delightful.  Getting to know people from Houghton, MI, to Bisbee, AZ, and all the places where I've ministered have been great adventures.  I've lived fully, learned much, and been blessed.

What brings joy and happiness is the knowing that I've been able to enrich people I've encountered in my adventures.  Life as a Sister of St. Agnes is good.  I also find great happiness in nature.  While living in Fond du Lac, I found out that planting flowers was a way to touch a deeper part of me.  When I moved to Arizona, I took that knowledge along and have let it flourish.  I've always loved animals, so being close to them and having them around puts a glow to my life and lightness to my step.  I've met a few horse people and that has meant getting to know their horses.  I'm lucky now to be living with Lupe, 'the cat,' and her 'cat person,' Sister Susan Kolb."

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Kathleen Nelessen
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Appleton, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

 St. Agnes School of Nursing, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1964
 Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Nursing

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Kathleen has ministered:

From 1967 to 1994, Sister Kathleen served in nursing at hospitals in Wisconsin, and Kansas.

From 1994 to 2002, she was a Regional Coordinator for the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes.

Since 2005, she has been involved with Sister Study Breast Cancer Research, in addition to serving at St. Frances Home in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, since 2006 to the present. 

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"For me, Jubilee is evidence of God's unending faithfulness which is a total gift every day, in combination with my fidelity in response to this call.  God's super abundant love is to be shared in ministry with God's people. The people I have ministered with have always encouraged me with their willingness to serve others. The special opportunities to be supported in community for working toward efforts for peace, for justice for all, and care of the Earth, have given areas of focus for my life.  Gratitude is truly the constant for all these gifts, including loving support in times of serious illness and family tragedy."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Kathleen Schweihs
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Villa Park, Illinois
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

St. Alexander Grade School
Mt. St. Mary High School
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Elementary Education
Clarke College, Dubuque, Iowa

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Kathleen has ministered:

From 1968 to 1985, Sister Kathleen taught elementary and high school grades in parish schools in Illinois and Wisconsin.

She served in office work as Director of Admissions, Director of Financial Aids, and Registrar over the course of her ministry years at Marian. She served at The Leo House in New York City from 1988 to 1992.  She has served at the Archdiocese of Milwaukee Central Offices in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from 1992 to the present.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"I praise and thank God for all the blessings through my life, beginning with my family and those who were part of my faith foundational experiences through my parish and early schooling.  In these 40 years in the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Agnes (CSA), I am grateful for all whose life journey intersected with mine along the way, and for those with whom I have been privileged to walk some distance through our shared work for the Church.  The Holy Spirit's gifts have enabled and encouraged me to respond daily to God's call in the joy and sorrows, trials and triumphs.  God is so good."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Laverne Miller
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Decatur, Indiana
 
Year of Profession: 1957

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

Saint Joseph Grade School
Decatur Catholic High School
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - One year
St. Clare Hospital, Monroe, Wisconsin - X-Ray training/registration as Radiologic Technologist
St. Louis University - Continuing education

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Laverne has ministered:

From 1957 to 2003, Sister Laverne served as a Radiologic Technologist at CSA sponsored hospitals in Monroe, Milwaukee, and Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Sister Laverne was a nursing assistant at Henry Boyle Home in Fond du Lac during 1970, and from 2003 served as a volunteer at Saint Francis Home in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, in the Sacristy and other areas.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"What it has meant to be a religious for 50 years:  Filled with much Joy and Thanksgiving, through the grace of God, I have been guided by the Holy Spirit and by the support and prayers of Sisters and friends. I have been able to rejoice in many blessings, carry many crosses, and walk with Jesus to destinations unknown.  His presence is Awesome!

I have experienced a sense of satisfaction and happiness through these 50 years. Through so many different paths; through all the lives I have touched; through the joys and sorrows, roses and thorns  I have encountered. . .  all add to making me a better person, radiating His love and joy and allowing me to share my gifts.  Thank you, Jesus, for holding my hand, leading, forming, strengthening, trusting me to do Your will.  Your many gifts to me of faith, love, patience, trust, joy, honesty, perseverance, friendship, a little stubbornness, peace, and Your presence have made these ways easier.  Thanks for the smile you have given to me.

What I would want a woman who is considering religious life to know about this life style:  Each person needs to be open to the workings of the Holy Spirit.  Sometimes it takes many 'Yes, Lord's.'  Sometimes this is very difficult and sometimes it is, 'Oh, so good.' "

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Lucille Bertram
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1947

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

 St. Mary Springs High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
 Food Service Dietary Assistant - 1969-1973
 Moraine Park Technical College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin -  Fall 1981
 Fox Valley Technical Institute, Appleton, Wisconsin - 1983 Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Lucille has ministered:

After entering the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes in 1943, Sister Lucille Bertram served as a homemaker from 1947 to 1975 at schools and parishes in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio.

From 1984 through 6/2000, Sister Lucille was involved in the following ministries:
Group Home for 8 retarded adults in Milwaukee;
Marian Franciscan Home in Milwaukee, working with the handicapped as a certified occupational therapist;
Social Development Commission, Milwaukee, where she started a literacy program for SDC
Interfaith Inc. in Milwaukee, where she continued on with work she was doing for SDC, and worked with the Older Adult Program.

Sister Lucille retired in July 2000.  She volunteered with Core El Centro in Milwaukee until 2003.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"I am surprised with what God had in mind for me.  God gave me the call  when I was in the 6th and 7th grade. I prayed and knew early on I wanted to become a sister.  My family was very supportive.  I was the oldest.  My father died when I was six and my mother remarried.  I have no regrets.  I am looking forward to my Jubilee with a great deal of satisfaction."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Madonna Dionis
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Altoona, Pennsylvania
 
Year of Profession: 1937

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

St. Agnes High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1935-1938, Diploma
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1937-1948, BS in Elementary Education
Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin - 1954-1962, MA History

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Madonna has ministered:

From 1937 to 1977, Sister Madonna taught Kindergarten through 8th grade in parish schools in Kansas, Wisconsin, Michigan, New York. She also served as principal of several of the schools, taught CCD to grade school children, started a Senior Citizen Group, and taught GED courses at MPTI during this period.  She was the supervisor of CSA schools from 1968 to 1969, and was an Apostolic Counselor for the Congregation of St. Agnes from 1969 to 1971.

Sister Madonna was the Superior for the aged & infirm sisters at Nazareth Heights Infirmary,Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, from 1977 to 1985.  She served as the Assistant Administrator & Coordinator of Volunteers at Service Center, Mobile, Alabama, during 1975.

In 1987, Sister Madonna was Coordinator and Housekeeper at St. Mary's Convent in Decatur, Indiana.  While semi-retired, she served in jail ministry work from 1991 to 1996, in Fond du lac, WI.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"I would not trade being a sister of St. Agnes for anything!  I wanted to become a sister and I have been very happy.  I came to the convent when I was 14 years old.  My parents were very supportive of my choice and my father used to carry a photo of me in his pocket and boast about being a daddy of a nun.

I was a teacher for 51 years.  I loved teaching school and children.  Prior to coming to St. Francis Home, I taught the prisoners in the jail in Fond du Lac for 5 years.  I helped them attain their GED's and saw 17 of them graduate. 

This 70th Jubilee came upon me rather fast, but I am very happy and am eager to celebrate it."

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Marilyn Bever
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Two Rivers, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

St. Luke's Elementary School
St. Mary's Springs High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BA Elementary Education
St. Meinrad's School of Theology - MA Religious Education
Prescott College - MA Spirituality

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Marilyn has ministered:

From 1968 to 1980, Sister Marilyn taught primary grade school in Wisconsin and New York.

Sister Marilyn served as Director of Religious Education from 1980 to 1981 at St. Joseph's in Hays, Kansas; from 1985 to 1990 at Sacred Heart in Tucson, Arizona, and at St. Odilia's in Tucson, Arizona from 1994 to 2000.

Sister Marilyn was Vocation Director at St. Agnes Convent from 1981 to 1985.  She served as parish coordinator at Sacred Heart, Fruita, Colorado, from 1990 to 1994.

During 2000 to 2002, she studied at the Interfaith Theological Seminary in Tucson, Arizona.

Since 2002 to the present, Sister Marilyn has been in Phoenix, Arizona, as Director of pre-novitiate formation for the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes, and Director of Arizona Ecumenical Institute for Spiritual Directors.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"My life as a Sister of St. Agnes has been diverse, enriching, challenging and a gift of God.  There have been many opportunities for personal spiritual growth and deepening, as well as support and encouragement to follow my ministerial call.  As I look back over the past forty years, I am amazed at how quickly they have passed,  and I am touched by how the grace of God has led me on paths I never expected to choose.  Working with adults in ecumenical and parish settings is a source of great joy and enrichment.

Being part of CSA, a community of women dedicated to the mission of Jesus Christ and open to the Spirit's new vision, has nurtured my soul and provided a loving, caring foundation for my life.  This life is right for me, the way I am being called to live my baptismal call of discipleship and a source of wonderful relationships and opportunities.  I am grateful to God for the blessings of my vocation."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Mary Alice Walters
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Hayes, Kansas
 
Year of Profession: 1947

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

 Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS
 Mary Manse College, Toledo, Ohio - MA
 Post Graduate:
    Fort Hays State University, Hays, Kansas;
    Notre Dame University, Indiana;
    Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin;
    Misericordia College, Dallas, Pennsylvania

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Mary Alice has ministered:

From 1947 to 1970, Sister Mary Alice taught primary and intermediate grades at parish schools in Wisconsin and Kansas.  From 1959 to1968 and from 1970 to1991, Sister Mary Alice served as the principal at parish schools in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and Kansas. 

Sister Mary Alice served as the Local Coordinator at Nazareth Heights from 1990 - 1995..She was administrator of  St. Agnes School in Butler, Wisconsin, from 1995-2000.  Since 2000, she has served in religious education, RCIC, and as the Chair of Evaluation Teams, living in Cudahy, WI. 

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"Sixty years as a Sister of St. Agnes have been years of peace and sincere joy in ministering in the educational systems in Wisconsin and Kansas, as teacher, administrator, and chair for evaluation teams for school evaluation. I was not only able to share educational adventures but have also received many opportunities from those with whom I ministered.  It has been a daily reminder that 'we, too, are among the needy' and God has granted the support and energy in all these needs.

To be called, invited to live a life of service to those in need, is a gift of time and talent. I am able to share, to assist in quality of life through educational endeavors.  'Live, Love, and Learn' in a healthy environment, enables students to be positive in daily choices.  I have had this opportunity as a Sister of St. Agnes. 

Being a sister of St. Agnes during these sixty years has been my life's journey of peace and gratitude."

Name of Jubilarian:    Sister Mary Monica Kutch
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Clinton, Indiana
 
Year of Profession: 1937

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

St. Mary's High School, Michigan City, Indiana - Diploma, 1929-1933
Marian College of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1934-1936, Summer Sessions
Fort Hays State, Hays, Kansas - BA History/Art-1943
DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois - MA History: American & European-1953
Numerous summer courses in scripture, world cultures, the school of democracy, psychology, and anthropology.

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Mary Monica has ministered:

From 1937 to 1973, Sister Mary Monica taught 2nd thru 7th grades, and social studies & world culture in parish schools in Wisconsin, New York, and Kansas.

From 1973 to 1980, she served in religious education, campus ministry, and as Director of Religious Education in Arizona and Kansas.

During 1980 to 1984, Sister Mary Monica served in ministry to the aging at St. Louis & St. Patrick Parishes in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. From 1984 to 1989, she served at Nazareth Heights and St. Agnes Hospice Hope in Fond du Lac, assisting with office duties at these sites.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"Every year I have been privileged to continue to be faithful to my vows (following as well as I know how) the call of Christ with thanksgiving and joy. My years have been filled with a great variety of experiences, both frustrating and satisfying.  I once wanted to be a missionary, a teacher, a musician, an artist.  I have been all of these and am grateful for how it came to be.  'God writes straight with crooked lines.'

I believe that Divine Providence has led me on my way.  Now I acknowledge that as a Sister of St. Agnes, I have spread the Good News not famously, but not infamously either. For the most part. I have grown 'wiser' in many ways, accepting God's will in 'building the Kingdom.'

Any woman who would desire to find her way to happiness, to satisfaction to the fullest, developing her natural talents in the service of others in Christ, will find a whole family in the Congregation of St. Agnes to support her."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Mary Noel Brown
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Petoskey, Michigan
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

St. Francis Xavier High School, Petoskey, Michigan
Alverno College, Wisconsin, Wisconsin - BSN
Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, Indiana - MSN
Norbertine Center for Spirituality, DePere, Wisconsin - Certificate in Spiritual Direction

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Mary Noel has ministered:

Sister Mary Noel has served in nursing at hospitals in Wisconsin, Nebraska, and Ohio.  She has also been in private practice as a spiritual director in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Currently Sister Mary Noel is the Executive Leader of Sponsorship at the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes corporate office in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"As I reflect on these past 40 years of religious life, I feel deeply blessed and very grateful for a life that has been both gift and grace, and infinitely more than I can ask or imagine.  Since my early years in religious life, God's faithful love and promise that 'I am with you always' has been the foundation of my unfolding journey. The changes, searching, transitions, challenges, losses, and new beginnings are life experiences I would neither trade nor undo.  Being able to share life in community with CSA is a tremendous gift, and I am grateful for CSA and others who have loved, encouraged, and walked with me into a newness of life I never thought possible.  My friends and those I have ministered with over the years have enriched my life and have been both teacher and mentor, as have the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, with whom I shared life and ministry for so many years. I hold in love my family who has always been there for me. In all of this, I am filled with overwhelming gratitude for God's loving presence and I invite all young women to open their hearts to the needs of the world, to hear God's call, and to 'come and see.' "

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Mary Rose Obholz

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Buffalo, New York

Year of Profession: 1967

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Elementary Education
Cardinal Stritch College, Milwaukee, Wisconsin - MA-Teaching of Reading
Clarke College - Certification in Learning Disability

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Mary Rose has ministered:

From 1967 to 1988, Sister Mary Rose taught 1st through 8th grades in parish schools in Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Alabama.

From 1988 to 1989, Sister Mary Rose was Administrative Assistant at Old St. Joseph in Chicago. Illinois.  From 1989 to 1991, she was an ESL instructor at Truman College in Chicago. 

From 1992 to 1996, Sister Mary Rose was an Adult Literacy Coordinator in Cleveland, Mississippi.  Since 1998 she has been a Parent Educator and Director of Imani Wellness Center in Indianola, Mississippi.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"Forty years of commitment to the Mission of Jesus has brought with it joy and challenge.  There is a song I use in my ministry, and that is Celebrate God. That is truly what my life has been, a celebration. I've been everywhere and have pioneered in many places - Chicago, Alabama, and Mississippi.I truly believe the best is yet to come.  My years in Mississippi, because they are the present moment, have challenged me to minister with the people in this area of the Delta. Every person has brought me to a new awareness; to a new definition as to who I am in CSA today. 

I have walked the walk, talked the talk, and become more whole; nurturing a healthy body, mind, and spirit.  I have recognized the power of God and the support of CSA as I journeyed with people of many cultures.  I have learned so much from so many and probably have grown because others have taught me and given me so much.  I can truly say I love my life and have the wonderful gift of being happy."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Mary Hornung
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Waunakee, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1957

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

St. Bernard's, Madison, and St. John the Baptist Grade School, Waunakee, Wisconsin
Waunakee High, Waunakee, and St. Agnes High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Education
Marygrove College, Detroit, Michigan - Masters in Education, Major in Elementary Administration.

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Mary has ministered:

From 1958 to 1970, Sister Mary taught 2nd through 7th grades at parish schools in Wisconsin.  From 1973 to 1999, she alternately served as principal, teacher and/or director of religious education at parish schools in Wisconsin, Ohio, and Illinois.  From 1999 to 2004, Sister Mary served as Director of Child Ministry for the Sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation at Sts. Mary & Peter Parishes in Port Washington, Wisconsin.

From 2004 to the present, Sister Mary serves part time in pastoral services at Badger Prairie Health Care Center in Verona, Wisconsin.  She is also a CNA/Secretary at Sonrisas Adult Home in Verona. 

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"As I reflect on the past fifty years, I think of the many lives I have touched in my years as an educator, in the role of teacher, principal and Director of Religious Education.  They gifted me with a challenge to serve them as a religious sister.  As an educator, I tried to instill in them my dedication to Catholic education and its values for living and learning.

Four years ago, I was given the privilege to take a six month leave from my work.  During that time, I reflected on my life, past and future.  That time was a most rewarding experience for which I will always be most grateful.  I became more aware of the great gift that God gave me, my call to serve Him and His people.

During these months, I became aware of the gift of perseverance that was mine as a religious woman, giving my life to God and His people.  It was during this time that in discerning my future, I was drawn to a new ministry in the Church.  I began serving the elderly 'young at heart' at Badger Prairie Health Care Center in Verona.  A year later I trained to become a Nursing Resident Assistant and worked for two years in that capacity.  In the past year I have been the secretary to the Manager of Sonrisas Adult Family Home in Verona.  Both of the above are part-time positions.  I believe that I have received more than I have given.  These ministries are gifts to me, and I will be forever grateful, for they have given me a healthy outlook on 'growing old gracefully.'

These years have given me a sense of joy and satisfaction.  I am most grateful to the Sisters of St. Agnes for their support, love and concern; for my well being during the past fifty years."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Mary Menke
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Milwaukee, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Ed.

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Mary has ministered:

Sister Mary has taught 1st through 4th grades in parish schools in Minnesota, Wisconsin, New York, and Illinois from 1968 to the present.  She currently teaches 4th grade at Mary Queen of Saints Catholic Academy in West Allis, Wisconsin.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"As I ponder my life as a religious, I can't begin to count the blessings I have received as a result of allowing myself to be open to the gift of this vocation.  Only because I am a religious have I had the opportunity to step back from the rush of life to connect with the Spirit within me, who allows peace and happiness to flourish among God's invitations to give of myself. 

God has given me the talent to be an effective teacher, and, at times, I am flooded with a sense of urgency to respond to the needs of children.  This call is continuous.  It comes again and again.  Each time I am compelled to accept it.  Each time I am given the grace, the physical, emotional, and spiritual support through my CSA community, to respond to the needs of children in the places to which I have been called.  And so, with great joy, I extend my gratitude to my family, friends, and my CSA Sisters, for supporting me all these years, during all the times that I have been invited to accept God's invitations."

Name of Jubilarian:    Sister Mary Neff

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Altoona, Pennsylvania
 
Year of Profession: 1947

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

Altoona Catholic High School
St. Agnes Convent High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Mount Mary College, Milwaukee, Wisconsin - 1960, BA Art Education
Notre Dame University, Notre Dame, Indiana - 1966, MA Art

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Mary has ministered:

From 1947 to 1963, Sister Mary taught first grade at parish schools in Wisconsin and Minnesota.  From 1963 to 1971, she served at Marian High School and St. Joseph Military Academy in Hays, Kansas as an art teacher.  From 1971 to 1995, Sister Mary was Instructor of Art (1971) and Assistant Professor of Art (1977) at Marian College in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.  She was Head of the College Art Department for 16 years during that period.

Since 1995, Sister Mary has served as an independent professional art teacher for retired adults, and at Nazareth Court & Center and St. Francis Terrace, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. 

Over her professional life, Sister Mary has created numerous commissioned art pieces, designed and illustrated covers for booklets, plus a variety of commissioned art works, including watercolor, acrylic, garden sculpture, banner designs, signs, stage sets, celebration environments.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"As a young child, probably because we were a family of eight children with one of the girls dying at age four, I would sometimes go with my electrician father to the St. Mary's Convent to wait in the living room and listen to the Sisters of St. Agnes talking and laughing in a room nearby.  I guess I was always open to new experiences.  Maybe it was Dad's way of helping Mother who ran the household, as well as being secretary for Dad's electric store on the first floor of the two houses, combined for home and business.  Dad was a very creative person; Mother was very gentle.

So, having known Sisters through grade and high school as both great teachers and kind humans who enjoyed life as well, I realized an attraction to their kind of life.  Added to that were the times when Mother and Dad shared their religious faith at family meals, or at our family night prayers; and in the ways their disciplining us taught us God-like behavior.

Then came the multiple experiences of several different communities of Sisters who taught at our Catholic High School.  We probably unconsciously compared our grade school Sisters of St. Agnes with these new sisters, and by the end of our sophomore year, four of us decided, with support from our parents, to enter C.S.A. in far away Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.  How hard it probably was for my parents to realize that my brother, too, had to leave for the war in Germany!  Only the youngest daughter was with them now at home.

Things quickly took root in the whole new environment of about fifteen women, as new as we were in the religious lifestyle.  As I look back now, the greatest gift was a deepening faith life, through prayer, and I loved the ministry of teaching first graders, then high school, then college and now the retired!  Education, also in art, further enriched my life with wonderful challenge and welcomed growth.  I continually recognize God's Will was and is there through it all, happily, gratefully.  Psalm 16 is one of my favorites, with the following images contained within it: "I have chosen to make God my ultimate concern."  "Wherever I am, wherever I go, I can sense something of the power of God."  (Psalms Now)

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Patricia Hayes
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Nursing
Aquinas School of Theology, St. Louis, Missouri - MA Pastoral Studies

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Patricia has ministered:

From 1970 to 1983 and 1989 to 1992, Sister Patricia served in CSA sponsored hospitals in Wisconsin, and in Waspam and Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua.

From 1986 to 1991, Sister Pat served as the Novice Director at St. Agnes Convent in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.  She served as Mission Services Director at St. Agnes Convent from 1992 to 1998. 

From 1997 to 2005, Sister Pat served on the Leadership Team of the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes in Fond du Lac.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"Life as a woman religious in CSA has called forth the best and truest of myself as a woman. At the same time, I've been enriched by the variety of ministry opportunities I've encountered and the wonderful people I've had the opportunity to serve and to collaborate with.  Because this lifestyle was my call, I've become more authentically the person God created me to be.  I have been happy, profoundly happy, in CSA.  That enables me to more consistently be a "joyful witness of the Risen Christ."

My deepest joy and greatest fulfillment as a woman has come in the context of being a woman religious in CSA. My greatest sense of satisfaction and happiness has come from the opportunity of being "a joyful witness of the Risen Christ" in the ministries I've entered into over the years.  Life in CSA communally and personally, has called forth the best in me and called me to greater authenticity and more honest commitment to God and God's people.

This life style, if it's your call, will enable you to, "become the secret that she was, in God, before the world began." Jessica Power,The Trackless Solitude

Name of Jubilarian:    Sister Regina Marie Werner

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Hortonville, Wisconsin

Year of Profession: 1937

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

St. Agnes High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1932-1936, Diploma
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1937-1949, BS in Education
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1969-1972, Certification in Library Science

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Regina Marie has ministered:

From 1937 to 1973, Sister Regina Marie taught in parish schools in New York, Kansas, Wisconsin, and Indiana.  She also was involved in CCD during 1937 through 1969.

From 1973 to 1989, Sister Regina Marie provided library services to parishes in Wisconsin, New York, and Indiana.  In 1989 she began to serve as a volunteer at Nazareth Heights and the Boyle Apostolic Center in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Rhea Emmer

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Year of Profession: 1967

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

St. Mary's Springs High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - 1964
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Nursing-1969
Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska - MA Spirituality -1978
University of Creation Spirituality, Oakland, California - Doctor of Ministry, 2002

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Rhea has ministered:

From 1969 to 1978, Sister Rhea served by providing skilled and acute nursing at hospitals in Wisconsin and Kansas.
From 1978 to 1993, she served at the Catholic Health Association in Madison, Wisconsin.

Sister Rhea served in the leadership of the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes from 1985 to 1989; and in CSA formation from 1985 to 1993.  From 1993 to 2007, she served in Spirituality & Health Care, and Spiritual Direction & Retreat Ministry. 

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"Being a woman religious at this time in human history has meant being a woman - first of all:  embodying the woman soul and creating places for women to gather and celebrate as women.

Second:  it has challenged me to claim the prophetic nature of this way of life and be a voice for others who are oppressed by patriarchal structures;

Third:  Any woman who longs to know the depth of God's love for her and God's deep desire to love the world through her  . . .  Come and be part of us!"

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Rita Kramer
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Dotyville, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

Our Lady of Angels Grade School, Armstrong, Wisconsin
St. Mary's Springs High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Education
Marygrove College, Detroit, Michigan - MA Religious Studies

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Rita has ministered:

From 1967 into the late 1970s, Sister Rita taught 1st through 8th grades in parish schools in Illinois and Wisconsin.  

For four years following her teaching years, Sister Rita worked in Financial Aid at Marian College in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.  From 1985 to 1992, she was a Nurse Aide at Nazareth Heights in Fond du Lac. 

Since 1992 to the present, Sister Rita has served at Agnesian Healthcare-Hospice & Home Care, Berlin, Wisconsin (1992 to 2000), and at Hospice Home of Hope in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, from 2000 to the present.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"I am deeply grateful for all the support I have received in responding daily to God's inner promptings as I've reached out to many in various ways all these years.

As a tear trickles down the cheek of a dying woman or man; as a patient who can no longer speak reaches out and clenches my hand - I know it has all been worthwhile - my listening ear; a sip of water; a back massage.

What I'd want a woman to know about this lifestyle is:  the deep Faith, the courageous initiatives, a true sense of Mission; listening to and following one's inner promptings; I feel lavishly Blessed in the good moments and the challenges. Journeying with my CSA Sisters and lots of people has been and is most enriching."

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Rose Andre Miller
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Decatur, Indiana
 
Year of Profession: 1957

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

Decatur Catholic High School
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Education
Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio - MS Education-Early Childhood Montessori

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Rose Andre has ministered:

From 1958 to 2003, Sister Rose Andre taught Kindergarten, 1st & 2nd grades in schools in Wisconsin and New York.  Sister Rose Andre developed the kindergarten program at St. Louis Parish & School in Fond du Lac, as well as at St. Mary's and St. Joseph Grade Schools. In 1994, she also developed and became administrator of a Daycare and After School Program in Fond du lac.

From 1997 to 2003, she was kindergarten teacher and Director of Religious Education, pre-school to high school at St. Michael's Parish and School in Plymouth, Indiana. She also assisted with pastoral work and was the Director of the RCIA program.  She developed RCIC for youth at this parish as well.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"To be a religious is a special gift - a calling to respond to one who was so dear to give me life through loving parents.  I cherish my life in community for these fifty years.  I've used my gifts to bring love and knowledge to others, especially the little children of God - it is all said in scripture - Matt 18:1-5.  Let the little ones come to me . . .

My sense of satisfaction is from the fulfillment of a dream as a child sitting on a curb and saying 'Someday I will go to school only to be a teacher.'  Being this teacher has set my heart on fire to relate God to others. 

If someone is considering religious life, I want her to know it is a commitment that opens one's heart to serve others; to help one to fall in love with God, walking hand in hand. Miracles do happen."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Stella Marie Karls
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Waunakee, Wisconsin
 
Year of Profession: 1957

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

 St. John's Grade School, Waunakee, Wisconsin
 St. Agnes High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
 Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Education

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Stella Marie has ministered:

For 37 years, Sister Stella Marie taught primary grade school in Wisconsin, Illinois, and New York.

Sister Stella Marie has served in Pastoral Care at Holy Family parish for the last 11 years. 

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"My life as a Religious has been very meaningful.  Serving God's people and their various needs has fulfilled a goal that I seek each day.  What more could I ask for?  God has been good to me. 

To love this life style one has to be a woman of prayer, always searching for the highest goal of loving and serving others.

As a religious and Christian, I try to see the good in everyone, live in the presence of God, and work to be the person God wants me to be." 

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Susan Kolb
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Crown Point, Indiana
 
Year of Profession: 1967

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BA History & Elementary Education -1969
University of Notre Dame - MA American Studies-1979
Arizona State University - JD-2000

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Susan has ministered:

From 1968 to 1978, and again from 1980 to 1983, Sister Susan taught 4th, 5th, 6th grades and social studies in parish schools in Wisconsin, Indiana, New York and Illinois.

During 1977 to 1980, she served in several capacities:  as a nurse aid, PT technician, and cooked for sisters in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

Sister Susan worked as a legal assistant for Catholic Charities in Coachella Valley, California, from 1983 to 1984.  She was with the University of San Diego, California, as a legal assistant for law school legal clinics and immigration counseling in the Diocese of San Diego during 1984 to 1986.  From 1986 to 1988, Sister Susan was immigration counselor for the Diocese of Tucson.  From 1988 to 1997, she was a paralegal with Southern Arizona Legal Aid in Douglas, Arizona.

Since 2000, Sister Susan has been managing attorney for Southern Arizona Legal Aid in Bisbee, Arizona.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"If I were to summarize my feelings about having been a vowed religious for forty years, I would use the words of a popular song:  'I'm everything I am because you loved me.'  Through thick and thin, I have felt the powerful love of my God.  I have felt His caress in a gentle breeze and seen His handiwork in the beauty around me.  I have felt His forgiveness fill my heart when hope eluded me.  Every event in my life has meaning because God loves me.

My religious Sisters have loved me, too, through thick and thin.  I have felt supported and accepted in all the twists and turns my life has taken over the past forty years.  They have made me laugh and taught me to value what is really important, being close to God no matter what I am doing.  My heart swells when I think of all the Sisters who have influenced my life.  I love coming home to Fond du Lac to be with them.  You may find my response very emotional, but that is what I am because Love has made me this way."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Thelma del Socorro Barahona
 
Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Managua, Barrio San Judas, Nicaragua
 
Year of Profession: 1992

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

Managua, Nicaragua - Grade School & High School
Escuela Normal/Teachers Training School Managua - Maestra Normalista (degree)/Teacher from Normal School

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Thelma has ministered:

During 1992, Sister Thelma was with the Josefina Sisters at Colegio San José in Matagalpa, Nicaragua.  From 1993 to 1995, Sister Thelma taught grade school and high school in Puerto Cabezas, Belén and Waspam/Rio Coco, Nicaragua.

From 2002 to the present, Sister Thelma has been principal of Colegio Sta. Rosa, in Rosita, Nicaragua.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"Religious Life is a very special life, a unique call and answer, in which we commit ourselves to listen to the voice of God, and to listen to those most needy.  To live the religious life is to give oneself and receive from God and others.  It is to let oneself be loved by God, our Lover."

Name of Jubilarian:  Sister Virginia Adler

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Waunakee, Wisconsin

Year of Profession: 1957

Education, schools attended, and degrees received:

Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS Elementary Education
St. Francis College, Ft. Wayne, Indiana - MS Elementary Education
Mundelein College, Chicago, Illinois - MA Religious Studies
Institute of Religious Formation, St. Louis University

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Virginia has ministered:

From 1958 to 1973, Sister Virginia taught Kindergarten, 1st through 4th grades in parish schools in Kansas, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin.  From 1973 to 1990, Sister Virginia was director of Religious Education at parishes in Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin.

From 1987 to 1991, Sister Virginia was also the initial Formation Director of the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes, and she was Associate Director, CSA, from 1987 to 1994.  Since 1993 to the present, she has been Pastoral Associate of St. Joseph Parish in Laguna, New Mexico.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"God's call seems to stand out in my entire life over these fifty years.  Not only the call to vowed life within community, but also the call to teach, to become a DRE, to become CSA's Associate Director, to cross a culture and minister to Native American people as a Pastoral Associate.  What a blessing it has been to bring about God's reign in this changing world of ours.  In the process, I have learned to value the 'sowing of seeds' as my primary way of being in ministry.  We have no way of knowing how our witness of life touches the lives of others.

Ministry within the Church has not been without its challenges and disappointments, but somehow, God's ways are made known to me through prayer, through my sisters in community, and through the people I serve.  Most especially enriching has been walking alongside adults and children who are seeking full initiation into the Catholic Church.  What joy there is in noticing God's love at work within his people!  What a blessing it has been to cross a culture and live and minister among the Laguna Pueblo people.  They have taught me much about spirituality, about respect for those who are different, and about forgiveness; and above all about the realization that God is the Creator of us all and loves us all.  They have helped open me to a deep desire to find ways to do the works of peace and justice within our Church and world."

Name of Jubilarian:   Sister Vivian Kleinsorge

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Colby, Kansas

Year of Profession: 1957

Education and schools attended and degrees received:

St. Agnes High School, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
St. Louis University - Certification in Food Service Management
Barton College, Great Bend, Kansas - Certification for CNA

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Vivian has ministered:

From 1957 to 1986, Sister Vivian provided food service support to ministries in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; Harlem, New York; and Crown Point, Indiana.

From 1986 to 1991, she was the Activity Director at St. John's New Horizons in Hays, Kansas, while also working part time in the St. Anthony Hospital Gift Shop.  From 1991 to 1996, she was Adult Day Care Activity Director in Gallup, New Mexico.

Since 1996, Sister Vivian has served at St. John's New Horizons in Hays, Kansas, as Residency Assistant, CNA, CMA in Pastoral Care.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"After fifty years of living a simple life style of serving God through my many ministries, I experience a great sense of gratitude, joy and happiness for being able to serve my God through touching the lives I serve.  My relationship with God has grown and become deeper.

Religious life is a sacrifice in many ways, but I find the rewards and blessings are greater, sometimes receiving more than I am giving."

Name of Jubilarian:    Sister Wilhelmina Schoch

Name of Birthplace/Hometown:   Altoona, Pennsylvania

Education and schools attended and degrees received:
 
St. Mary's Grade School - Altoona, Pennsylvania
Altoona Catholic High School - Altoona, Pennsylvania
Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin - BS in Education
Fordham University, Bronx, New York - MS in Religious Education

Overview of positions held, locations, and dates where Sister Wilhelmina has ministered:

From 1958 to 2000, Sister Wilhelmina taught 1st, 2nd & 3rd grades in parish schools in Indiana, Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois and Mississippi.

From 2001 to the present, Sister Wilhelmina has ministered at Sojourner Truth House in Gary, Indiana.

Thoughts on Religious Life:

"It is with great joy that I am celebrating fifty years of religious life.  It has been my dream to be a "sister" since first grade.  When I entered at age 17, I wanted to continue and deepen my relationship with God as a Sister of St. Agnes.  As I reflect back over these fifty years of commitment, I am filled with gratitude for the many opportunities I have been given to learn, grow and deepen this relationship.

Community has always been very important to me.  It is through our CSA community that I have been encouraged, challenged and supported in serving the Church and God's people.

Forty-two years of my ministry were spent teaching primary grade children. This took me to several states and a variety of cultures.  After retiring from teaching, I joined the staff at Sojourner Truth House, a ministry in Gary, Indiana, for homeless and at-risk women and children.

It has been a great privilege to be called to both ministries.  It was a joy teaching small children, helping them grow in their relationship with God and in the knowledge of the world around them.  By their wonder and excitement, as well as their struggles, the children have been teachers to me.

At Sojourner Truth House, I have been both challenged and awed by the many people who come for assistance.  Their deep faith and trust in God reveals the worth and dignity of each person.  I have been gifted and enriched to overflowing by God's call to be a sister of St. Agnes."