Grief as Soul Work
by Katie Anders, BVM Grief is the word we use to describe the sadness and ache we feel when we experience loss. Losses come in many shapes and forms. Loved ones and friends die, people move away, relationships end…
A Clockwork of Compassion
Volunteers set up St. Joseph Hall for funeral luncheons and celebratory occasions: BVMs Joellen McCarthy (l.) and Linda Roby, Associate Marybeth Coleman, and BVMs Ann Marie Dress and Fran Donnelly are among those who provide hands of service whenever there's…
The Evolution of Communication
A long time ago: The Latin word communis comes into use among Italic tribes. It is an adjective formed from the prefix “ko” (meaning “together”) and the root word “munis,” meaning “shared,” “duty,” or “gift.” It is the source of…
More Than a Place to Live: Reimagining Aging in Chicago
Residents celebrate Valentine's Day. by Kari Litscher Across the United States, aging often means slipping into isolation. Living on a limited income in cities like Chicago, many lose community, mobility, and housing stability. But in a few shared spaces, a…
Sister Emelyn’s Story: Embracing Grief Leads to Unexpected Joy
by Michelle London The youngest of 11 children, Emelyn Malecki, BVM has a close relationship with many of her 25 nieces and nephews. Rick Calkins is one of those nephews. “We have a very cordial, happy relationship,” he says. “It’s…
Saying ‘Yes’: Katie Anders Professes First Vows as a BVM
Katie Anders, BVM, with her son Alex and daughter Lauryn, during the service where she professed First Vows. by Kari Litscher Katie Anders felt called—to teach, to serve Christ, to care for a family. “That was the path I chose,”…
Indigenous Peoples’ Day: City of Dubuque Proclamation
At the City Council Meeting where the proclamation was made were (front row): Franciscan Associate Dave Heiar (l.), BVM Ann DeNicolo, Suzanne Gallagher, PVBM, BVM Associate Nancy McCarville, Dubuque County Reads Program Coordinator Sarah Smith, and Dubuque County Library District…
LCWR Region 10 Honors BVM Sisters for Life-Changing Ministries
BVMs Letitia Close (l.), Second Vice-President Anne Marie McKenna, President LaDonna Manternach, First Vice-President Kathy Kandefer, and Mary Gene Kinney. During a powerful evening of story, Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) Region 10 (Iowa, Missouri, and Nebraska) honored the ministry…
Season of Creation: A Water Reflection
A favorite spot of Karen's on the shore of Lake Superior. By Karen Kane-Herber I am drawn to bodies of water. Growing up along the Mississippi River, I felt wonder that on one side of the land was Iowa and…
For Such A Time As This: The Power of Love, Hope, and Community in Puerto Rico
Yanira Ocasio Hernández, Foundress and CEO of For Such a Time As This, serves hope and nourishment to the poor and homeless in Puerto Rico. by Kari Litscher Yanira Ocasio Hernández, the Foundress and President/CEO of For Such A Time…