I am from the Midwest, born in Missouri. I lived in Kansas and Illinois before moving to Colorado. My parents were Bob and Mary, and I have a sister and four brothers. Growing up in the family, I developed a solid foundation of faith and work ethic with a sense of responsibility. Our family spent time together playing games, camping, and working. This is where I learned the principles of hospitality, and the importance of the common good.
I attended Catholic schools and was taught by Benedictine and Dominican Sisters. I earned a Bachelor degree in Elementary Education with an emphasis on Learning Disabilities from Illinois State University. Upon graduation, I joined VIDA (Volunteers in Diocesan Action) and moved to Walsenburg, CO for two years, teaching with the Benet Hill Sisters.
During my second year of teaching, the single women volunteers moved into the convent with Sisters Bertrand, Aimee, and Paula. There I grew to appreciate the Liturgy of the Hours, the community prayers for the world. I observed the joy, love, and dedication of the sisters. This awakened my desire to answer the insistent call to seek God in the Benedictine Life.
I joined the Benet Hill Monastery in 1974 as an affiliate. After the novitiate I made triannual vows in 1976 and final vows in 1980. I was able to celebrate the Sesquimillenium, 1500 years of Benedictine monasticism, in 1980 with Benedictines all over the world. This was truly joining a way of life that was much bigger than myself.
I continued to teach in elementary schools in Walsenburg, Lakewood, and Denver. I loved interacting with the children and parents, appreciating the growth academically and spiritually of each one.
After a summer volunteering as an aide in Physical Therapy, I discovered a way to combine my love of teaching with a desire to work in a healing ministry by earning a Masters degree in Physical Therapy (PT) from Texas Women’s University in Houston, TX.
Returning to Colorado I worked at Penrose Hospital and moved to Alamosa as Director of PT where I designed a modern PT department that served the whole San Luis Valley.
I have served the Benet Hill community on numerous committees and task forces. I was the director of Benet Pines Retreat Center and created the meditation paths and prayer sites while caring for the forest. I chaired the building committee for the new monastery, collaborating closely with our architect, contractor, engineers and El Paso County Regional Building and State Departments for all the permits, inspections, and actual construction. I have served on the Monastic Council during three Prioress administrations, served as Treasurer and Assistant Prioress as well. I currently serve as Secretary to the Monastic Council and community and offer periodic retreats on Healing Touch, the labyrinth, and Culturally Modified Trees found on the grounds. I also am the liaison to the Care of Creation Covenant Group and supervise the Healthcare department.
Service and hospitality are the hallmarks of my values. I expect the best of myself and try to allow others to discover and utilize their talents and gifts. These ideals with respect for each person and all creation continue to guide me. I believe our Benedictine values, charism and Spirit of service flowing from our prayer life and Gospel living are our legacy for the world.
