Meet Sister Mary Catherine, IHM

Name: Sister Mary Catherine, IHM

Current Ministry: Spiritual Enrichment at Camilla Hall

Hometown: Philadelphia

Profession Year: 1972

Previous Ministries: Middle School Teacher, DRE, Parish Minister 

Question #1 - What attracted you to the IHM Sisters? 

Being African American I appreciated the friendly and honest encounters I had with my high school Religion Teacher.  She encouraged me, challenged me, told me about racism the congregation experienced in the past, and promised she would do all in her power to see me through adversity. 

Question #2 - What would you say to a young woman who feels drawn to religious life but is unsure or afraid to take the next step? 

Don't fear limitations, they can be assets.  Don't think you're not prayerful enough or worthy, be open to God.  Remember, this is God CALLING YOU!  Be real, be yourself (warts and all)!

Talk to Consecrated Women about their experiences.  Religious Life draws a person to think beyond  oneself and allows the individual to a Gospel "worldview".  Private/Communal Prayer offers an opportunity to be with God and God's people.  Religious life is not a "risk" you take; rather, it is a calling from God that awaits your response. 

Question #3 - Who is your favorite saint, and why?

I can't say I have a favorite saint.  When I read about the life of a Saint, I feel inspired.  Lately, I've tried to delve deeper into the life of our Foundress, Mother Teresa Maxis. She never stopped believing that she had a Religious Calling from God.  What a courageous woman, even if she is not canonized. 

Question #4 - Complete this sentence: "Being an IHM Sister has taught me that..."   

...life has purpose and God will do the rest!