I was born in Alton, Ill., the fourth of six children. I went to Catholic elementary school and high school. Most of my teachers were Ursulines. They were good teachers and took a personal interest in each of their students. I was fortunate to have religious sisters on both sides of my family. My father’s sister was an Ursuline and two of my mother’s aunts were Dominicans, so from a young age I knew that sisters were real people.

As a child I sometimes thought about becoming a sister; but I didn’t seriously consider it until my last year of high school. Although I considered several communities, I chose the one I knew best—the Ursulines. Along with being fine educators, they loved God, were kind, and seemed to be happy people.

My ministries have included serving as an elementary school teacher and principal, high school librarian, in community and province administration, and parish work. Since 2004 I have been part of the staff at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Cape Girardeau. My ministries include coordinating the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) process and coordinating the parish’s Christian Service Ministries. I meet wonderful people in both ministries. In RCIA work I am inspired by those who sense that God is inviting them to consider becoming Catholic. In the Christian Service I meet wonderful parish volunteers who have the heart and hands to help others. And those who have requested assistance have taught me so much—especially about having faith in very challenging circumstances—and deepened my sense of gratitude for the opportunity to serve.