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 Sister Theresa Bray, OP.

“I know I am personally and deeply loved by God who fills me with great happiness and has given me energy to put my faith and love into practice.”

How can I ever thank God for all the blessings bestowed on me? Seventy years, hard to believe! How quickly the years of Love and Service pass. I am grateful for the gift of faith, family, friends, and Community of Sisters. I say thank you, God.

I was born December 25, 1927, in Hart, Michigan to Frank and Sophie Retizor. I am the seventh of eleven children, six boys and five girls. My elementary education took place in the Catholic School in Weare, MI and I attended high school at Marywood Academy. I met Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters at the Academy and this led me to decide to enter the convent when I was fourteen.

After attending Aquinas College I began my teaching ministry in St. Joseph Parish in Saginaw. I spent 35 years teaching in grades Kindergarten through 4th. What means the most to me is having been able to touch the minds and hearts of the very young.

My years at Marywood have brought out the gift of being present to others and sharing joy and faith with the residents here at Aquinata Hall.