What kind of work have you done as a Sister of Providence?

I worked for 20 years as the province director of finance, 13 years as treasurer and financial director at Sacred Heart Medical Center, and the same type of position at St. Mary?s in Walla Walla. Then, I was in development, which is a fund- and friend-building department. I tried to let people who are friends and relatives of the sisters know where the sisters are and what they do, particularly the retired sisters. I collect funds for the sisters, the poor and those who find themselves in financial crisis. Today, I am retired.

What other kinds of projects do you work on in your ministry?

I collect money to take care of the sisters who work with the poor and don?t get salaries. We also help finance the poor in the Philippines and El Salvador?that?s through global ministries.

How do you keep communication open between the sisters and their families?

We keep in touch with our sisters and keep in touch with our friends and one of the big things that we do is pray. We have a powerhouse of prayer here at Mount St. Joseph (in Spokane) and we like for the sisters? friends and relatives and prior students to feel free to come and visit the sisters.

How do you show your presence as a Sister of Providence in the Spokane community?

Involvement in church-related activities, practicing the core values of compassion, respect, and care of the poor. I am a volunteer at Hope House. Its mission is to provide a safe and comfortable shelter for a diverse community of homeless women, particularly those who are vulnerable. We strive to create an environment of dignity, respect and compassion, and we recognize the intrinsic value of all the women and honor their experience. We, sisters, are here to serve all the people of God, especially those who come to us in need.

What has been your motivation?

My vow of obedience is very precious to me. Whatever I?m asked to do, I never consider whether I?m qualified or whether I like it or not. I made a vow of obedience, not a vow of success. And God has been very kind to me. All my work has been successful. But it?s been God?s work. Whatever I do is for the Lord, and it?s been very fulfilling.

Prayer has always been an important part of my life. My days start and end with prayer. I rise each morning between 4:30 and 5 and pray for at least an hour. I rely and trust in Providence, live in Christ. To live with a community of women whose lives are dedicated to God is most helpful. We all have the same goals. I believe we sisters witness in the way we live. I hope to always follow in the footsteps of Jesus and Our Mother of Sorrows.