In 1887, March 25 was named Foundress Day for the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon. Ever since, throughout the month of March, the Sisters have celebrated the day when the first Sister professed her vows by educating the campus about their mission, vision and charism. This year, the Sisters celebrated their Heritage month with the entire school community through a variety of prayer services and gatherings.

At the Early Learning School, the Sisters were treated to songs and presentations by the little ones, including a rousing rendition of “Old McDonald” replaced with words of their own. (With a Convent here, and a Convent there . . .) Several of the Sisters then visited the classrooms, shared snacks and answered questions about what it is like to live as a Sister in the SSMO Community.

The elementary children held a prayer service and Principal Friesen compared the Sisters’ core values and mission statement with the mission statement for Valley Catholic Elementary School. Valley Catholic School President Sister Rita Watkins talked about how the students “strive for excellence” when they participate at Mass, are kind on the playground, act considerately toward visitors and do their best in their schoolwork.

The middle school students gathered in the Sisters’ dining room for cookies, cider, tea and conversation. Questions were asked like, “So why did you decide to become a Sister,” and “What did you do before you entered the Convent?”

The high school held a prayer service in the Sisters’ chapel featuring special readings and music performed by a choir directed by Sr. Julia Monti.

Posted by Thomas Kohler in About the Sisters