For Sister Benigna Haug, rejoicing with God in creation was integral to life itself and singing God’s praise was her greatest happiness. Sister Benigna died peacefully at Benet Hill Monastery August 11, 2011.
Born in Seneca, Kansas January 2, 1925, Sister Benigna (baptized Erma Bernadine) was the youngest of Mary (Brandt) and Anthony Haug’s ten children. At the time of her death she was survived by her sister, Lela Gudenkauf.
Sister Benigna entered Mt. St. Scholastica Convent January 21, 1946 and made her Perpetual Monastic Profession August 15, 1950. She was a charter member of Benet Hill Monastery.
Throughout her life, Sister Benigna’s most powerful gift was her undying concern for the ‘anawim,’ the poor ones. Quietly, she would offer assistance to anyone who was in need of food, clothing or comfort. She would say, “It is the way to be Christ, you know.” We will all miss the light she carried in her heart.
