Sister Lupe Silva

“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