Work in God’s vineyard brings hope to world
As School Sisters of Notre Dame celebrate the foundation of the congregation, we invite you to reflect on our foundress’s words: “May God of the vineyard give growth so that what God’s love has called into being may bear blessed fruit in its time.”
Caroline Gerhardinger, who took the religious name Mary Theresa of Jesus, lived a life totally committed to the service of God and God’s people. She placed her trust and hope in God and the transforming power of God’s love.
On October 24, 1833, Caroline and two young women began their religious life in Neunburg vorm Wald, Bavaria. The School Sisters of Notre Dame congregation was founded to educate girls and young women from the lower and middle classes to help them become strong devout mothers, who would instill Christian values in their families.
Today, School Sisters of Notre Dame across North America, South America, Europe, Africa and Asia continue Blessed Theresa’s mission of education with a special commitment to women, youth and persons who are poor.
Our sisters witness and inspire hope in countless people through educational ministries that transform our world. View a Foundation Day greeting from the sisters.
Photo by Mary Conarchy
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Across provinces and around the world
Sister Leetta Hammack’s story of becoming a sister is similar to many, but a tragedy, a dream and God’s call made her story one of hope, excitement and internationality. She is from St. Louis, but followed a calling to Latin America and currently serves in Paraguay.
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Germany trip creates international connections
Notre Dame High School students and their SSND teachers visited the birthplace of the congregation in Germany. The students traveled to Notre Dame sister-schools in Bavaria to meet fellow German students and experience the SSND mission in another culture.
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Photography and prayer
Sister Kathleen Storms has found a way to pray and meditate through her photography. Focusing on nature and the colors of the season, her featured work will be the cover of the Eastern Iowa Regional Telephone Directory.