Why did you choose to become a Franciscan?
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I became familiar with the Franciscans friars at an early age in Galway, Ireland, where I grew up. I viewed them as simple, joyous and relational people. While the parish they staffed, known as the Abbey, was not my home parish, I went there often with my friends. We particularly frequented the shrine of St. Anthony on the way to movies and dances to pray for successful results in upcoming school examinations. A Franciscan friar moderated our Legion of Mary group and encouraged us to give time on weekends to visit the homebound and the sick in the hospital. The same friar formed a discussion club for youth and we joined it to debate the prominent issues of the 1960s. When I felt drawn to become a woman religious, I met with this same Franciscan friar. He encouraged me to become a Franciscan. He gave me literature describing a number of congregations. I felt attracted to the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia because of their diverse locations and ministry with multi-cultural groups of people. Two of my friends also entered religious congregations so we assisted each other in the process. I was one of six children—four boys and two girls. Although my parents found my departure to the United States difficult, they were supportive of my life choice.
What have you done as a Franciscan sister?
During my years as a Franciscan sister, I’ve served in a number of different ministries. After I completed my novitiate in Oregon, I taught in elementary schools in California, Washington, and Wyoming. Later, I was a principal in two schools. In 1977 I was elected to the provincial council in our western province—Sacred Heart Province—and coordinated our education and other ministries. In 1985 I became provincial minister of the Sacred Heart Province and served in that role for eight years. While serving as provincial, I was a board member of a number of hospitals in my province and later served as a board member of our Franciscan Health System Board.
In 1993 I relocated to the east coast, served as chair of Franciscan Health System, and assisted in its consolidation into Catholic Health Initiatives. I was elected to the congregational council in 1996. When I completed the six-year term, I became a consultant and facilitator for other congregations and health systems. In June 2008 I was elected to my current position as congregational minister for the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia.
What has been the greatest help to you as you live out your call to be a Franciscan sister?
In my response to the various calls in my life, I have experienced God’s love and providential care and the support of many people. Throughout my life I have been gifted with great models and mentors, particularly in our pioneer sisters who began ministries with few resources and great trust in the providence of God. I trust that if God calls me to a ministry that I will receive what I need to fulfill it.
What do you see for the future of religious life? 
Religious life is still an attractive way of life for me. I believe that our mission, lived well, can be a gift for many people, particularly for those who are underserved in our society.
What do you do to relax?
In my youth, I relaxed by playing camogie, an Irish field game, swimming, hiking and reading Russian historical novels. In my more mature years, for leisure, I enjoy walking, being by the ocean, reading biographies and mysteries, traveling to places with different culture, and visiting with friends.
