"I entered the monastery in 1947 because I needed to respond to the call I felt within myself, the call to prayer, hospitality and service to others."

I was the third youngest child of 13 children, born to German-Russian parents. Despite so many children, we were all loved and praised for who we were.

My parents were very religious, especially my mother. Mother attended daily Mass with us; we prayed the rosary together as a family and we were provided a Bible and other religious newspapers. We also had fun. My parents spent evenings with us playing cards, Monopoly and many other games. Meals were always shared together, and friends were encouraged to come to our home.

I entered the monastery in 1947 because I needed to respond to the call I felt within myself, the call to prayer, hospitality and service to others. My mother was a role model as were my Benedictine teachers through my 12 years of school at Hague. My parents admired the Benedictines and great respect was instilled in me for religious women.

I find great joy, delight, happiness and satisfaction being a member of Annunciation Monastery because of the balanced life of prayer, leisure, work and living among caring and supporting women.

I have so appreciated the daily Eucharist, Liturgy of the Hours, Community events and the many opportunities that have deepened my spiritual life and developed in me a close relationship with Jesus. Praying the psalms and reflecting on Sacred Scripture for so many years have nurtured my spiritual life profoundly. With a grateful heart I cherish my gift of a religious vocation.

I had the challenge and invitation to further my education, so as to become a registered nurse, registered physical therapist, and a hospice chaplain. I was able to serve in the physical therapy ministry for 25 years, nursing ministry for 12 years, chaplain of Home Health and Hospice for 7 years, and at present, serve Christ as "Hospitality Hostess" at St. Alexius Medical Center. I am a grateful person and realize "The Lord's Footprints" have been along the entire journey.

My invitations were accepted willingly and in a spirit of joy, hope and confidence. I could see God preparing me in my various ministries, especially hospitality and service to others. For relaxation, I enjoy walks, working puzzles, playing cards, reading, writing letters and gardening in the summer.

As my journey continues, may I always see Christ in every person, and in all things, "God be glorified."