Sister Phyllis Klonowski

Jubilee, like an anniversary, marks time by remembering, asks for the forgiveness of debt and/or actions to strengthen relationships with God and neighbor, and celebrates the abundance of blessings experienced.

Jubilarian 2017 – 50 Years a Sister

The oldest of five daughters for Daniel and Regina (Peplinski) Klonowski, my life was rich with deep Catholic faith, education, and Polish customs. These marked each sacramental and growth step in my birth and faith family, St. Josaphat Parish, Carrollton. Community was learned as one witnessed and practiced acceptance/inclusion. Presence was felt and given as support amidst trial and loss. Voice was heard. Fear was weakened. Hope, courage, and trust strengthened. Love to transform discrimination and avoidance.

My acceptance into the Grand Rapids Dominicans on the wave of Vatican II, the Vietnam War, and Civil Rights movement challenged my prayer and mission life. Being invited and confirmed through the community, Pharmacy became my portal for service. Believing medication is an aid for healing and focusing on a person not a disease, I have sought affordable access and safe understandable use of medicine. My claimed voice helps Love transform healing.

My prayer, answered hourly, is “to be open to receive God’s love and to respond as fully as I am able”, “to love each person who crosses my path.” Gratitude, joy, and the music from Lori True’s hymn “Let This Be the Time” ring in my heart. “May this be the time when Peace, Justice, and Transformation” do mark all our lives. Amen.

Until her retirement, Sr. Phyllis Klonowski, OP of Saginaw was the founder and pharmacy director of the Community Prescription Support Program, a nonprofit organization based at St. Mary’s of Michigan that serves needy populations such as the elderly, mental health patients and the working poor in Saginaw County.