Profession of Vows 2007 -- Sister Francisca Cuna

Sister Francisca Cuna was born in Michoacan, Mexico, the twelfth child in a family of 15. When she was 18, Sister Francisca moved to the United States. Even before coming to the United States, Sister Francisca knew she wanted to be a Sister, but it took ten years to find someone to lead her to a Community. Sister Francisca entered the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon from Blessed Sacrament Parish in Ontario, Ore. After meeting Sister Catherine Hertel, Sister Francisca visited the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon Campus and was attracted by “the beautiful welcoming and the smiles.” She felt home right away.

Before entering the Community, Sister Francisca worked at a motel in Ontario. She also attended Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario and Portland Community College. She became a Certified Nursing Assistant and is now working towards a Registered Nurse certification through Portland Community College. Sister Francisca also enjoys making rosaries and reading.

Sister Francisca’s current ministry is to work at Maryville Nursing Home. “I am able to help the Maryville residents, not only by my work, but by cheering and encouraging them. In working with them, I get much more than I give,” she said. Sister Francisca feels that a special highlight in her life is how the Holy Spirit has worked in her life. “The Holy Spirit called me to Religious Life, and things really fell into place as I studied nursing.”