Sister Linda Thiel, OP

50th Jubilee Reflection

These words have shaped my life: “Give praise and thanks —our God is kind and merciful.” ~ Psalm 103

As a Michigander, I was raised on a farm near Chesaning with loving parents, three sisters and two brothers. It was there, amid the daily rhythms of country living, that my relationship with God first took root, awakening within me a profound sense of awe and reverence.

I met the Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters in 6th grade at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Chesaning. I was attracted to the Dominican joyful spirit, love of song, and steadfast prayer.

Ministry has taken me to many places and introduced me to remarkable people. Walking alongside individuals, families, and communities experiencing challenges and illness has been humbling and transformative, continually showing me the sacredness of each person and the presence of a loving and merciful God.

Call has taken me from bedside nursing to roles in management/administration, the classroom, and scholar. The compassionate and healing presence of God has been a source of grace, strength, and hope throughout these 50 years.

Today, I continue the journey with students, colleagues, and scholars who are shaping the future of nursing.

During these 50 years of religious life, I have felt the powerful presence of God’s grace surrounding me amid life’s many mysteries. Time and again, I turn to Psalm 103: 8 “The Lord is kind and merciful.”

Words feel too small in this Jubilee moment. It is with a grateful heart that I thank my sisters, family, and friends for accompanying me with their support and prayers during these 50 years.

During this time of Jubilee, “Let us all rejoice and give praise and thanks to God, who is kind and merciful!”