In our Dominican tradition, we celebrate Jubilee years of Sisters. We are blessed to recognize Jubilarians for their vowed lives and service for 80, 75, 70, 60, 50, and 25 years. We honor each woman and the unique contributions she has made to the world and to our Congregation mission. Each Jubilarian tells her own story — in her own way — sharing about her life, her ministries, her learnings, her joys, and her sorrows. And our Congregation shares in the storytelling, reflecting on the common threads that run through our lives together. The unfolding of the mystery of God’s presence in our lives is awesome and we are blessed to celebrate 2017 Jubilarian Sr. Mary Catherine Fodrocy.
I was baptized on September 25, 1938 at St. James Church in Montague, Michigan and grew up in Dalton Township about midway between Muskegon and Whitehall.
My very first contact with the Dominican Sisters from Marywood was through their religious correspondence course. Our pastor signed up all school children. Sr. Rosella would write encouraging notes on the completed lesson before she returned it with the new lesson. Meeting some Dominican Sisters in person didn’t come until I began the 8th Grade at St. Joseph School in Muskegon.
Ministry has taken me to several places in Michigan. Various ministry roles have been teaching, administration and pastoral ministry with people from 6 to 100 years old. The unifying thread going through these ministries has been walking with people through the ups and downs, twists and turns of our journey of faith. I have been touched by them and they have been touched by me.
My life has been enriched by the many blessings and opportunities for growth that have come to me through my family, community, co-workers, and friends. My prayer is gratitude for all of you.