Sister Lupe Silva, OP

2023 – 76 Years a Sister

Prayer Ministry

Pray for missionaries.

“’Gracias a Dios’ continues to be my daily prayer of thanks.”

The Sister journey that began on September 8, 1946, has brought me to celebrate 75 years as a Dominican.

The Silva family, with Brunita and Lucio Silva and myself as the youngest of 15, taught me about living as a thoughtful, helpful person with a generous heart for all who came to our door. This attitude was continued as a Dominican in ministry as teacher, principal, Director of Religious Education, Pastoral Associate and Director of the Hispanic Formation Program, and Vicar for Hispanics of the Saginaw Diocese.

Life poses new opportunities. For me one of the favorites was when Sister Esther Okwor returned to Nigeria taking with her pillowcase dresses for little girls made by Sister Ann Hehl and myself. At present, crocheted prayer shawls and afghans are going to Bethany Christian Services and the Help Pregnancy Center. These are given to mothers and new babies as welcome gifts. I am able to crochet because my Mama taught me at age 6. Oh, what fun!!

Since our move to the new Marywood, the sewing machine has found a new home and, as always, seems to find someone needing mending, fixing a seam, or just some advice on a sewing need. This is always welcome.

I have also revived my tatting skills, and cards are a result. I’m sure these skills will be welcomed in heaven.

So I say, “Gracias a Dios” for my dear family, friends, Dominican Sisters and Associates.

One of Sister Lupe's favorite opportunities was when Sister Esther Okwor (far right) returned to Nigeria taking with her pillowcase dresses for little girls made by Sister Ann Hehl (far left) and herself.

One of Sister Lupe's favorite opportunities was when Sister Esther Okwor (far right) returned to Nigeria taking with her pillowcase dresses for little girls made by Sister Ann Hehl (far left) and herself.

Sister Lupe with her blood sister Juanita at Aquinata Hall. During the final years of Juanita's life, Sister Lupe was her daily companion for walks around Marywood, reading, prayer and more.

Sister Lupe with her blood sister Juanita at Aquinata Hall. During the final years of Juanita's life, Sister Lupe was her daily companion for walks around Marywood, reading, prayer and more.

Learning and study are one of the pillars of the Dominican Charism. Sister Lupe Silva, born in Merrill, Michigan, shares a program with residents at Aquinta Hall during Hispanic Heritage Month.

Learning and study are one of the pillars of the Dominican Charism. Sister Lupe Silva, born in Merrill, Michigan, shares a program with residents at Aquinta Hall during Hispanic Heritage Month.

"Gracias a Dios for my supportive family and friends, and my Dominican Sisters with whom I share life, prayer, and study. Thanks to all the dear ones who have graced my life in ministry." ~ Sister Lupe Silva

"Gracias a Dios for my supportive family and friends, and my Dominican Sisters with whom I share life, prayer, and study. Thanks to all the dear ones who have graced my life in ministry." ~ Sister Lupe Silva

At present, crocheted prayer shawls and afghans made by Sister Lupe are going to Bethany Christian Services and the Help Pregnancy Center for mothers and new babies.

At present, crocheted prayer shawls and afghans made by Sister Lupe are going to Bethany Christian Services and the Help Pregnancy Center for mothers and new babies.