When Jesus saw people leaving, he turned to the twelve and asked, “Do you also wish to leave?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words of everlasting life.” ~ John 6:67-69
This profound act of faith has guided me throughout my life as I have continually sought a deeper relationship with God.
My ministry began in education, teaching elementary grades before becoming a principal. I later transitioned to diocesan ministry and was eventually called to serve as a Pastoral Minister. After a sabbatical at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, I returned to Grand Rapids, embarking on a new and fulfilling ministry—teaching ESL for the Diocese. For 20 years I also served as Director of WORD~ESL, a role that expanded into preparing students for U.S. citizenship and attending their Oath Ceremonies—one of the most rewarding experiences of my ministerial life.
Throughout this journey, I was blessed to walk alongside my mentor and dear friend, Sr. Janice Mankowski, who shared many of my ministerial roles, including two decades in ESL and citizenship education. Sr. Joyce Ann Hertzig also joined us in ministry at GRCC for many years, further enriching our work.
One of the greatest gifts God has given me is the awareness of others’ needs and the ability to connect them with those who can help. This calling led me, along with three other Dominican Sisters, to begin our ministry at The Store House in 2023.
Words often fall short in expressing the gratitude I feel. From my parents and family to my community, friends, and students, I have been blessed and shaped by Christian values and service. I owe much to the many mentors within my Dominican Community who have guided me over these sixty years. My heart is full of gratitude—blessings to all!
