Please join us for the livestream of
Jubilee Mass
Sunday, June 30, 2024
2:30-3:30 p.m. CDT
Celebrating our 2024 Jubilarians
Mass will be livestreamed on the Holy Family Catholic Community Facebook page. You do not need a Facebook account to view the livestream.
75 Year Sister Jubilarians
Carol Geels
Professed in 1949
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Decatur, IN
EDUCATION
St. Joseph Grade School; Decatur Catholic High School – Decatur, IN
Marian University – B.S. Ed.
Marquette University – M. Ed.
St. John University, Collegeville, MN – Liturgical Music
St. Mary’s, Winona, MN – Administration
Fordham University – Biblical Studies/Vocational Guidance
University of Notre Dame – Development
MINISTRIES
1949-55 St. Patrick, Fond du Lac, WI – Grade 1
1955-58 St. Florian, Milwaukee, WI – Grade 2
1958-62 St. Luke, Two Rivers, WI – Grade 5, 7
1962-66 Sacred Heart, Yonkers, NY – Grade 8
1966-71 St. Mary Help of Christians, West Allis, WI – Principal, Grade 8
1971-79 CSA Apostolic Councilor Elementary Education
1979-87 Two Rivers Catholic Central, Two Rivers, WI – Principal
1987-94 St. Mary, Nanty Glo, PA – Principal
1994-99 CSA Motherhouse, Fond du Lac, WI – Local Coordinator
1999-04 St. John Baptist, Jefferson, WI – Music Teacher
2004-10 Monroe Clinic, Monroe, WI – Volunteer
2010-16 CSA Motherhouse - Retired
2016-present CSA Nazareth Court/Center
REFLECTIONS
A blessing I’d like to share:
My name Carol means joyful song. At this time of my 75th Jubilee, I sing with joy and gratitude for the life-giving Blessing of My Call to religious life in the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes. As a Sister, I have been provided enormous opportunities for personal and communal growth, for deepening my relationship with Jesus the Christ, and for witnessing to Jesus’ love and desire for justice especially for the poor and women, and for care of the Earth and the entire cosmos. Over the years, it has been a blessing to join my gifts of teaching, administering, and providing liturgical worship service in harmony with other CSA joy-filled women. Thank you, God, and CSA.
In Memoriam
70 Year Sister Jubilarians
Daniel Weinzierl
Professed in 1954
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Altoona, Pennsylvania
EDUCATION
BS in Elementary Education, Marian College, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Master’s in Education, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri
MINISTRIES
1954-1959 St. Peter Claver School Sheboygan, WI—Teacher Grade 1
1959-1962 Sacred Heart School, Fond du Lac, WI—Teacher Grade 1
1962-1965 St. Margaret Mary School, Milwaukee, WI—Teacher Grade 7
1965-1971 Sacred Heart School, Fond du Lac, WI—Teacher Grade 8,
Principal 5 years, Vice-Principal 1 year
1971-1972 St. Nicholas School, Evanston, IL—Teacher Junior High
1972-1977 St. Henry School, Fort Wayne, IN—Teacher Grade 6
1977-1986 Sacred Heart School Yonkers, NY—Teacher Grade 6, Vice Principal
1986-1989 St. John the Baptist School, New Haven, IN—Teacher Grade 5
1989-1994 St. Mary’s School, Nanty-Glo, PA—Teacher Specialist Math and Music
1994-1996 St. Mary’s School, Nanty-Glo, PA—Principal
1996-2008 St. Mary’s School, Nanty-Glo, PA—Teacher Specialist Math and Music
2008-2013 St. Mary’s Parish, Nanty-Glo, PA—Music Ministry, Volunteer at Holy
Name School
2013-Present Nazareth Court and Center, Fond du Lac, WI
REFLECTIONS
Expressions of Gratitude and a Blessing to Share
As I celebrate 70 years of religious life, gratitude fills my heart. Family has always been an important part of life for me. I feel so blessed to be part of my extended Weinzierl family and my CSA family. Their presence, love, and support have been my source of strength and joy.
With a grateful heart, I ask God to pour out continued blessings upon, you, my CSA community and my beloved family. You have helped me live, love, and serve faithfully all these years.
Lucina Halbur
Professed in 1954
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Fond du Lac/Eden, Wisconsin
EDUCATION
MINISTRIES
2008-2022 St. Rose/St. Michael Food Panty & ESL Program, Milwaukee, WI
REFLECTIONS
An Experience That Affirms My Lifelong Commitment as a Vowed Religious
I lived in a CSA local community in central city Milwaukee for 23 years. Each of us sisters served in a ministry daily and when home collaborated with our neighbors to address social issues affecting the area. Our local community was quickly accepted as authentic friend, with no other commitment than the good of others. The spirit of community spread among all in the neighborhood, evidenced by a significant bonding.
A Blessing I Would Like to Share
I have been blessed in many ways. For all these gifts I am ever grateful. The blessing I would like to share is gratitude. As I grow old my gratitude grows each day for the goodness around me and for the grace to be able to hold in my heart the suffering of others.
How the CSA Charism Continues to Inspire Me
To respond to others whose faith life or human dignity is threatened speaks to me as a reflection of the life and ministry of Jesus. As a follower of Jesus, I am honored to participate still in some small ways in CSA’s continuation of Jesus’ life and work.
Lucy Brault
Professed in 1954
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Two Rivers, Wisconsin
EDUCATION
St. Luke Grade School, Two Rivers, WI
St. Agnes High School, Fond du Lac, WI
B.S. Elementary Education, Marian College, Fond du Lac, WI
Alverno College, Milwaukee, WI
Masters Elementary Education, De Paul University, Chicago, IL
MINISTRIES
1954-1958 St. Florian’s, Milwaukee, WI – Grade 1
1958-1968 Immaculate Conception, Elmhurst, IL – Grades 1 & 2
1968-1975 St. Mary’s, Altoona, PA – Grades 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
1975-1980 St. Margaret Mary, Milwaukee, WI – Grade 2
1980-1988 St. Mary’s, Marytown, WI – Grade 2
1988-1992 St. Louis, St. Patrick, Fond du Lac, WI – Grade 3
1992-1993 Presentation, Fond du Lac, WI – Grades 1 & 2
1993-2001 St. Joseph, Fond du Lac, WI – Kindergarten
2001 Retired
2003 Foster Grandparent Program, Fond du Lac, WI
2007 St. Agnes Convent, Fond du Lac, WI
2012 Retired from teacher aid
2023 Nazareth Court/Center, Fond du Lac, WI
Religious Education Classes:
St. Florian, Milwaukee, WI
Elmhurst, IL
Altoona, PA
Marytown, WI
St. Louis, St. Joseph, Fond du Lac, WI
REFLECTIONS
An Experience That Affirms My Lifelong Commitment as a Vowed Religious
I am grateful for my life as a Sister in the CSA congregation. I entered quite young but as I matured, I learned a lot from the witness of the Sisters around me. May God continue to bless all of my family, friends, and CSA.
Words of Advice for Those Working to Advance CSA’s Mission
To advance the CSA mission one must read and be open to new ideas and take time to be grateful and participate in the daily practice of prayer and accept new insights that the Holy Spirit offers.
A Blessing I Would Like to Share
A blessing that I would like to share is the acceptance and participation of our associates as they carry on our mission in witnessing God’s love to us and all the world.
How the CSA Charism Continues to Inspire Me
The CSA charism inspires me to go forward in loving the world as our early Sisters did.
Marie Kees
Professed in 1954
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
St. John, Wisconsin
EDUCATION
St. Agnes High School - Fond du Lac, WI 1952
Marian College - Fond du Lac, WI - B.S. Elementary Education - August 1966 Holy Family - Manitowoc, WI - CCD Certificate - December 1968
Marygrove - Detroit, MI - Masters in Education - September 1971
MINISTRIES
1954-1963 Brother Dutton School, South Beloit, WI – Grade 4 Religious Education Teacher, Religious Education
1963-1970 St. Luke School, Two Rivers, WI – Grade 2 Religious Education Special Ed and Sacramental Prep
1970-1971 St. Ignatius School, Houghton, Michigan – Principal, Part-time Grade 2, Religious Education Program
1970-1979 Consolidated Catholic, Lomira, WI – Principal, Grade 7 & 8 Religion teacher, religious education program
1979-1982 St. Bernard, Watertown, WI – Director of Religious Education (preschool-grade 8)
1982-1984 St. Agnes Convent, Fond du Lac, WI – Supportive Services
1984-1998 St. Joseph Parish, Rosemount, MN – Pastoral Minister
1998-2001 St. Maria Goretti Parish, Madison, WI – Pastoral Associate
2001-2011 St. Maria Goretti Parish, Madison, WI – Volunteer Associate (with benefits)
2011-2019 Motherhouse - Fond du Lac, WI – Volunteer
REFLECTIONS
Words of Advice for Those Working to Advance CSA’s Mission
Some of my students from Two Rivers and Beloit have become teachers because of my influence. You never know whose lives you touch.
A Blessing I Would Like to Share
The blessing of a large family that was able to step in and care for the rest of the children after I left for the convent.
How the CSA Charism Continues to Inspire Me
Our charism of hospitality continues to show itself by the way we treat visitors and welcome them to our facility.
In Memoriam
60 Year Sister Jubilarians
Angela Behen
Professed in 1964
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Chicago, Illinois/Burlington, Wisconsin
EDUCATION
Marian College, Fond du Lac, WI - BS Education, May 1964
Ball State University, Muncie, IN - MA Education, August 1980
MINISTRIES
1964-1965 St. Louis Parish, Fond du Lac, WI – Grade 6
1965-1967 Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Hortonville, WI – Grade 5/6
1967-1973 St. Jude Parish, Wauwatosa, WI – Grade 6
1973-1975 Sts. Louis and Patrick Parish, Fond du Lac, WI – Grade 6
1975-1977 St. Joseph Parish, Fort Wayne, IN – Junior High teacher
1977-1978 St. Charles Parish, Bensenville, IL – Grades 5-8
1978-1979 St. John Rest Home, Victoria, KS – Social Services Designee, Public Relations
1979-1980 St. Mary's Springs High School, Fond du Lac, WI – Public Relations /Alumni
1979-1980 St. Agnes Convent, Fond du Lac, WI – Answer Phones
1980-1983 Marian College, Fond du Lac, WI – Assistant Director of Admissions 1983-1986 Marian College, Fond du Lac, WI – Director of Public Relations
1983-1985 St. Agnes Convent, Fond du Lac, WI – Communications Coordinator 1986-1988 St. John Rest Home, Hays, KS – Coordinator of Public Relations
1987 St. Mary's Parish, Hays, KS – Grade 5 CCD teacher
1988(Sept./Oct.) St. Francis Home, Fond du Lac, WI –Consulted on brochure 1988-1992 Nazareth Heights, Fond du Lac, WI – Receptionist/ Communications 1992-1994 St. Ambrose Catholic School, Chicago, IL – Development Associate
1994-1996 St. Ambrose/Congregation of St. Agnes, Chicago, IL – Sacramental Coordinator/ Associate Director
1995-1996 P.A.B. Social Services, Chicago, IL – Public Relations
1994-2001 Congregation of St. Agnes, Chicago, IL/Fond du Lac, WI – Co-director Associates
2001-2002 Quality Cab, Fond du Lac, WI – Weekend Dispatcher
Apr-June 2003 Center for Spiritual Healing, Fond du Lac, WI – Receptionist 2003-2016 Senior Center, Fond du Lac, WI – Volunteer
2014-2020 Simple Blessings Store (St. Francis Home), Fond du Lac, WI
2022- 2024
REFLECTIONS
An Experience That Affirms My Lifelong Commitment as a Vowed Religious
In Chicago, I was walking to the bus when two boys confronted me saying they had a gun, and they wanted money. I knew I was close to the rectory and a passerby recognized me. I said, "Do you really want to get into deep trouble for a little bit of money in front of a Church?" I hoped they wouldn't shoot me in the back. Then they said, "We really don't have a gun, and you're a nice old lady." They walked across the street and shouted, "Thank you!" to me!
Words of Advice for Those Working to Advance CSA’s Mission
Treat others as you would like to be treated. There is a wideness in God's mercy.
A Blessing I Would Like to Share
I am grateful for all of the experiences I have had with travel, meeting all kinds of people and cultures, and the ability to share CSA with them.
How the CSA Charism Continues to Inspire Me
Our commitment to those whose faith life or human dignity is threatened in any way and its expansion into continuous ramifications is deep in my soul.
Kathleen Delaspina
Professed in 1964
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Pittsburgh, PA/Carnegie, PA
EDUCATION
MINISTRIES
REFLECTIONS
An Experience That Affirms My Lifelong Commitment as a Vowed Religious
On going personal relationship with God through setbacks and challenges.
Words of Advice for Those Working to Advance CSA’s Mission
Witness and inspire God’s fidelity.
A Blessing I Would Like to Share
CSA flexibility and acceptance in my various ministries.
How the CSA Charism Continues to Inspire Me
To be faithful in vowed life.
Marilyn Ellickson
Professed in 1964
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Waunakee, WI
EDUCATION
St. John's Elementary School
St. Agnes High School and Saint Mary's Springs.
B.S. Elementary Education from Marian University, Fond du Lac
M.S. Elementary Education from Bank Street College of Education, New York
MINISTRIES
1965-1968 St. Joseph’s Elementary, Hayes, Kansas, Grade 1
1965-1968 Jefferson East Elementary, Hayes, Kansas, Grade 2
1968-1970 St. Jude’s Elementary, Milwaukee, WI, Grade 2
1970-1976 New York, Harlem, Grade 2
1976-1982 New York, Harlem, Grade 6
1982-1984 New York, Bronx, Grade 6
1984-1990 St. Margaret Mary School, Milwaukee, WI, Grade 6
1990-1993 Marian University, Fond du Lac, WI, Desktop Publisher
1993-1994 Doris Klein’s Art Studio, Milwaukee, WI, Business Office
1995-2006 Mount Mary College, Milwaukee, WI, Administrative Assistant
2006-2007 Ordinary Sisters, Formatted the book for Press
2007-Present The Leo House, NY Administrative Assistant/Director of Development/Newsletter Editor/Correspondent with Donors
REFLECTIONS
An Experience That Affirms My Lifelong Commitment as a Vowed Religious
I am so proud of the Sisters of Saint Agnes who had served years ahead of me here at The Leo House. It is a blessing and a privilege to follow in their footsteps and to be a member of a Community committed to carrying their charism into the future.
Current Leo House donors send letters, little notes, and contributions in memory of and in gratitude for the outstanding hospitality experienced 30-40 years ago. Some remembered the Sisters’ kindness at times of mind-boggling personal and family tragedy. I would go to the Court and Center during summer CSA Days and speak with those who had served at The Leo House before retirement. I asked if they remembered these families and individuals. “Oh, we did that all the time,” was the response.
One family brought their oldest son, a young teen, for a first time visit to the city. While here, he suffered a brain aneurysm and lingered at St. Vincent Hospital. Other family members came to say their good-byes. Accommodations for them were at The Leo House thanks to the Sisters who managed the guesthouse. Listening with compassionate hearts to the grieving parents made such an impact, that three times a year, at Christmas, for their son’s birthday, and on the anniversary of his death, they send a sizable contribution in gratitude for the kindness extended years previous.
Another family extended their heartfelt thank you and gratitude to the Sisters “who took care of our mother. She sat all day with our oldest brother who was dying of AIDS at St. Vincent Hospital.” At The Leo House they made sure she was comfortable and had enough to eat.
The friends of a severely wounded young woman, made sure the girl’s parents and grandparents had a secure, comfortable place to stay at night, while attending their dying daughter, again at St. Vincent Hospital. The young woman was a recent graduate from the Yale School of Drama and working toward an acting career in NY. Part-time work as a waitress and small movie roles filled her day. An ex-boyfriend started stalking her at all hours and one evening followed her home and at the door, shot her in the face. The shocked, grieving family sat with her, prayed, and spoke to her even though her face and head were completely covered with gauze and bandages. When she died, her grandmother found solace in The Leo House garden and in memory of her granddaughter, had a garden plaque inscribed and anchored in a flower bed. The family also started a foundation which continues to support young students pursuing the Fine Arts.
Words of Advice for Those Working to Advance CSA’s Mission
- Kindness never grows old.
- Trust the transformative power of God.
- Kindness generates kindness. We may not see immediate results of our actions, but 40 years from now, who knows? Today’s kindness may be transformed into generosity and into a really good story!
Mary Ann Czaja
Professed in 1964
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Kewaskum, Wisconsin
EDUCATION/MINISTRIES
Earned a BS In Elementary Education and taught for 13 years. Further study resulted in a Masters in Social Work and Gerontology. Forty-one years of serving the poor, and many as Executive Director of Tarboro Community Outreach, proved a love journey where no two days are the same! Sheltering the homeless, feeding the hungry, clothing those in need, and working with prisoners fills each day with a sense of the sacred and wonderment. How blessed it is to touch the lives of others! How blessed to receive their love!
REFLECTIONS
An Experience That Affirms My Lifelong Commitment as a Vowed Religious
Sharing gratitude, joy, fear, understanding and dreams with others gives meaning to each moment of living!
Words of Advice for Those Working to Advance CSA’s Mission
Listen to the workings of the Spirit in meditation.
A Blessing I Would Like to Share
I remain grateful to Sister Carmel Meyer. Her influence enabled me to understand the sacredness of life, value of communication, and the responsibilities of leadership. They have been lifelong lessons!
How the CSA Charism Continues to Inspire Me
The give and take of life itself, amidst so much beauty, continuously provides me with energy and creativity to confront situations at hand. Believe in love! Believe in sharing!
Patrice Rog
Professed in 1964
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Chicago, Illinois
EDUCATION
BA, Mundelein College, Chicago, IL, 1968
MALS, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL, 1976
MSEd, Loyola University, Chicago, IL, 1982
Certificate in Spiritual Direction, Claret Center, Chicago, IL, 1995
Continuing education: various workshops and conferences
MINISTRIES
1965-1966 St. Stanislaus School, Posen, IL, grade 3
1966-1968 Mundelein College
1968-1969 St. John of God School, Chicago, IL, grade 6
1969-1974 St. Isidore School, Blue Island, IL, grades 7-8
1974-1987 St. Joseph High School, Chicago, IL, librarian, teacher and administrator
1987-1993 Vocation Minister
1992-1993 Archdiocese of Chicago, Associate Vocation Director
1993-1994 St. Clare Spirituality Center, Polonia, WI
1994-1995 Claret Center, Chicago, IL
1995-1996 Our House of Prayer, Chicago, IL, director of center
1996-1997 St. Clare Spirituality Center, Polonia, WI
1997-1999 Campus Minister, St. Joseph Middle School, Appleton, WI
1997-2003 Monte Alverno Retreat Center, Appleton, WI
2001 Transferred vows to CSA
2003-2004 Sabbatical
2004-2005 Campus Minister, University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh, WI
2005-2006 Spiritual director
2006-2010 Pastoral Minister, Wright Hall, Chicago, IL
2010-2012 Coordinator, Nazareth Court and Center, Fond du Lac, WI
2012-2014 St. Lawrence Seminary High School, Campus Minister and teacher
2014- Spiritual and retreat director
50 Year Sister Jubilarians
Anita Henning
Professed in 1974
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Hardinsburg, KY/Beloit, WI
EDUCATION
MINISTRIES
1999-2001 Fond du Lac - CSA Leadership
2002-2008 Canton, MS - Principal
2009-2013 Portage, WI - Director of Faith Formation
2013-2017 Fond du Lac - CSA Leadership
2018-Present Briggsville, WI Pastoral Minister
REFLECTIONS
An Experience That Affirms My Lifelong Commitment as a Vowed Religious
There can't be only one story that affirms a lifelong commitment to as a vowed religious in CSA. It's a continuation of events and people that affirm a lifetime. Lives I've touched and lives that have touched me. Without my commitment to God and CSA, I would not have been in a position to know these people:
The mother who turned to me for safety for her daughter, when in an abusive situation and a CSA community willing to help
The high school freshman who came to tell me that he was carrying drugs to make money and wanted me to help him stop
A family who called for help as the father was dying
Parents who came in to talk about their children and needed to talk about other family issues.
CSA has helped form me throughout all my years and helped make me a person who was able to be of service and be served in these and many more situations.
Words of Advice for Those Working to Advance CSA’s Mission
Remember that first of all it is the mission of Jesus, and we are privileged to carry it out through our charism. Together as a community we are able to reach out to "those whose faith life and human dignity are threatened" ... always remembering that we "are enriched by those we serve." We are strengthened by the life we share together and the relationship we form with God. We receive the love of God and share the love of God.
A Blessing I Would Like to Share
The sisters I have come to know and love since my time in formation to the present day are a blessing. I treasure each one. The people I have been privileged to know through ministry have been a blessing to me. And most importantly the relationship God has formed with me is a tremendous blessing.
How the CSA Charism Continues to Inspire Me
It has guided me in my openness to the ministries God has provided in my life. It is a compass for my interactions with others. It is a reminder that the love of God touches all parts of our lives.
Mary Ann Scherer
Professed in 1974
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Two Rivers, Wisconsin
EDUCATION
MINISTRIES
2014-2018 Regional Coordinator, Congregation of St. Agnes, Fond du Lac, WI
2018-2019 L’Arche, live-in, Clinton, IA
2019-present ARC, volunteer, Fond du Lac, WI
REFLECTIONS
An Experience That Affirms My Lifelong Commitment as a Vowed Religious
Not a story, but the people who I ministered to who would thank me for giving my all to them. Their acknowledgments made me realize the value of a giving heart and always being thankful for God.
Words of Advice for Those Working to Advance CSA’s Mission
Always try to give with a generous heart and a warm smile. Everyone understands that. Always be generous with your time and time to keep yourself healthy.
A Blessing I Would Like to Share
May the God of love always fill us. May the God of light shine through the dark times. May God always be our rock.
How the CSA Charism Continues to Inspire Me
I still have a deep desire to be for God’s people.
I am daily moved to see and to find the good in those I am with, serve or just meet on the street!
25 Year Associate Jubilarians
Mary Beth Wirtz Osieki
First Commitment in 1999
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, MINISTRIES, OR VOLUNTEER WORK
My 2012 Certificate in Spiritual Direction from Aquinas Institute in St. Louis has opened amazing doors for me. First off, a support community of five women who studied with me have become long-lasting friends. I gained tools to share with small group faith communities in my local parish and with the Sisters and Associates. Through the experience a richness and depth empowered my leadership in the local Women's Cornerstone Community which I've been able to keep alive and growing even after scheduled retreats are no longer possible.
REFLECTIONS
A Blessing She Would Like to Share
I treasure the opportunity to share my gifts of organization, inspiration and encouragement with the CSA Sisters and Associates through active membership of planning groups like the coordinating body and home circle leaders and through facilitation of our monthly home circle and book study group. I regularly experience our CSA statement “We are nurtured by those we serve.”
What it Means to be Celebrating her Jubilee as an Associate of CSA?
Jubilee is a time of reflection about all of life's journey that have led me to today and of giving thanks to God the Giver of All. I feel so blessed to have had CSA a part of my life from my earliest days in elementary school, through high school, college and beyond. I would not come to the end of the list of particular Sisters and Associates who made a significant difference in my life or of how the mission and charism of CSA and its founders have inspired me in my life decisions. God’s plan and direction have lead me to this day of Jubilee when my love and appreciation for CSA is deeper than ever as I continue to give and receive support and encouragement from CSA Associates and Sisters who ever inspire me to be my best self and share the gifts God has generously bestowed upon me.
Together supporting one another we seek a broader view of life and greater understanding of inclusivity for humankind, nature, the Universe and each individual piece and part of the whole.
15 Year Associate Jubilarians
Nancy Fox
First Commitment in 2009
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, MINISTRIES, OR VOLUNTEER WORK
My primary ministry since my retirement (7 years ago) has been to gently oversee and guide my special-needs sister, who lives next door in the duplex I own. Additionally, I try to assist others as needed, both financially and in many other ways that may arise. Along the way, I’ve sung in the parish and other choirs for 40+ years.
Frances Grace
First Commitment in 2009
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Yonkers, New York
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, MINISTRIES, OR VOLUNTEER WORK
Since becoming an associate: lecturing at daily Mass at St. Francis Home chapel and sending associate birthday cars. For several years after moving to Fond du Lac, I did RCIA volunteering at Holy Family Parish and still support them.
Pre 2007 I did lots of volunteer and paid work for handicapped and families and RCIA with my husband.
REFLECTIONS
A Blessing She Would Like to Share
My family’s blessing was my son Peter who had Down Syndromes (IQ about 50). He inspired us all to volunteer work with handicapped people.
What Drew Her to Enter into Relationship with CSA as an Associate
My two CSA sisters: Sisters Mary Frances Schug and Emily Schug. Going to Sacred Heart Grammar & High Schools with CSA teachers in Yonkers, NY. Graduated from high school in 1942.
What it Means to be Celebrating her Jubilee as an Associate of CSA?
I’m very glad to spend my last years in Fond du Lac close to the Sisters (at St. Clare Terrace). Volunteer work now limited to lecturing at Mass and sending Associate birthday cars.
Kelly Kohlman
First Commitment in 2009
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, MINISTRIES, OR VOLUNTEER WORK
Horace Mann High School Graduate 1982, North Fond du Lac, WI
Folk Group Guitar Player/Singer at St. Louis Church 1979 until church closed, then joined St. Joseph Folk Group, then we became Joyful Spirit Ensemble.
Prison ministry through Holy Family Catholic Community until COVID.
Play at Motherhouse for Masses.
REFLECTIONS
A Blessing She Would Like to Share
It has been a blessing to get the chance to meet so many sisters and associates from all across the United States. To be able to share stories with them in a judge-free environment. I can share being an associate with my mom who became an associate the same day,
What it Means to be Celebrating her Jubilee as an Associate of CSA
It is a great honor. Hard to believe that 15 years have gone by. I get to celebrate it with both of my parents. COVID almost took my mom but as my brother said she is too stubborn to die. So we get to do this together.
Ruth Kohlmann
First Commitment in 2009
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
At home—Farm in Town of Wayne, Wisconsin
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, MINISTRIES, OR VOLUNTEER WORK
Fond du Lac High School Graduate, 1957, Fond du Lac, WI
Eucharistic Minister, Reader, St. Louis Church, Eucharistic Minister, Sacred Heart.
Folk Choir, St. Joseph Parish and member of Joyful Spirit Ensemble.
Prison ministry for 20 years.
Volunteered for ASTOP bingo with Sister Alice Ann.
Teacher, Confirmation classes for 2 years, St. Louis Parish
REFLECTIONS
A Blessing She Would Like to Share
The many prayers the sisters sent for my recovery when I was confined at St. Agnes Hospital with COVID. Also I feel my two children are blessings from God.
What Drew Her to Enter into Relationship with CSA as an Associate
The desire to get more informed about women I admired. I have worked with the sisters at various times in my life and their faith, willingness to help others, kindness—all these things drew me in.
Marie Trebec
First Commitment in 2009
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Milwaukee, Wisconsin/Elm Grove, Wisconsin
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, MINISTRIES, OR VOLUNTEER WORK
BA—Mount Mary College
MST (Master of Science in Teaching)—UW Oshkosh
Music, art, and language arts teacher for 15 years; legal assistant in local law firm for 35 years; parish choir accompanist for over 35 years; presently accompanist for Sisters’ choir at CSA motherhouse; member of associate newsletter tea; former secretary of Adelante Mujer, Inc.
REFLECTIONS
What Drew Her to Enter into Relationship with CSA as an Associate
Upon relocating to Fond du Lac and becoming part of a local parish folk choir, I came to know several CSA Sisters who had joined the group, one of whom was Sister Anne Jude. She invited a number of members to join the CSA Associate Relationship. Our group sang for the Associate First Commitments for a number of years and little by little the Spirit moved me to finally make the commitment myself. It was one the best decisions of my life.
Julie Van Vleet
First Commitment in 2009
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Kalamazoo, Michigan
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, MINISTRIES, OR VOLUNTEER WORK
HS graduate 1972 Glenbrook North HS, Northbrook, Illinois
BS nursing, 1978 Marian College, Fond du Lac, WI
MS MSMOB 2002 Silver Lake College, Manitowoc, WI
1978-1980 staff RN at St Agnes Hospital
1980-1994 staff RN on various units all over the hospital
1994-2012 various management positions in Home Health Care
2012-2017 home visit RN for Hospice Hope
January 1, 2017 retired
REFLECTIONS
An Experience that Affirms Her Commitment to the CSA Associate Relationship
Being part of such as dedicated, strong community has been most affirming to me. I learn so much from the Sisters, it's hard to cite any one example. The entire CSA community is so loving and supportive, it has enriched my life in many ways.
A Blessing She Would Like to Share
During the time that my fiancé, Michael, was unexpectedly dying, and after he had passed away, I received so many heart-healing messages and cards from the Associates and Sisters. This helped tremendously to begin healing my heart. I am a prayer partner, and wholly believe in the power of prayer. I felt these blessings deep in my heart.
Jean Werner
First Commitment in 2009
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Plymouth, Wisconsin/St. Cloud, Wisconsin
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, MINISTRIES, OR VOLUNTEER WORK
Associate Degree in Nursing from Fox Valley Technical College
4-H leader for many years
Loaves and Fishes Coordinator for 20 plus years
Employee of SSM Healthcare, St. Agnes Hospital for 42 years
32 years as Hospice nurse
REFLECTIONS
An Experience that Affirms Her Commitment to the CSA Associate Relationship
The privilege of being a hospice nurse and caring for the sisters at Nazareth Heights, St. Francis Home, and Nazareth Court and Center over many years. Educating Hospice staff on what it meant to live in Community.
A Blessing She Would Like to Share
The fact that both of my children live in the Fond du Lac area. All six of my grandchildren are in the area too. I am thankful everyday.
What Drew Her to Enter Into Relationship with CSA as an Associate
Many years ago I was an affiliate. The charisma and welcoming of the sisters. They were my teachers in grade school. I went to camp with the sisters as a camper and later as a counselor and camp nurse. I worked very closely with the sisters as a hospice nurse.
I was asked by Sister Helen Mueller many years ago. She was a hospice volunteer. I told her I had to wait until my kids were older. The sisters were part of my life throughout grade school through high school through Camp Vista and also through college. I was a p.m. nurse. The sisters charisma and support was always present. My years as a Hospice nurse Sister Anne Jude Van Lanen orientated me before she left for Nicaragua. Taking care of the sisters at the Heights and later Court and Center.
What it Means to be Celebrating her Jubilee as an Associate of CSA
I can’t believe it has been 15 years! I am thankful for the opportunity to celebrate and grow spiritually.
Kristin Wisnefske
First Commitment in 2009
NAME OF BIRTHPLACE/HOMETOWN
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, MINISTRIES, OR VOLUNTEER WORK
1975 Milwaukee County General Hospital School of Nursing – Diploma in Nursing
2001 Viterbo University – Bachelor of Science Nursing
2006 Edgewood College Master of Science Degree in Nursing
REFLECTIONS
What Drew Her to Enter Into Relationship with CSA as an Associate
I was drawn into the associate relationship because of an invitation that I received from Sister Florence Magnan. As an RN at Monroe Clinic in homecare, hospice and parish nursing I was very familiar with the mission and vision of the sponsored Monroe Clinic. I was also very active on the mission committee and so I was interested in learning about becoming an associate. It was one of my best decisions. I have been able to experience an increase in my own spirituality and that of the other associates. I look forward to our circle meetings and learning from one another. In addition, I also felt very supported by the Sisters and the other associates while taking care of my husband as his caregiver before he passed away in August.