I’m happy to know that someone beside me thinks about the value of “Hidden Ministries.” We all know of the role of our retired sisters in this regard. Daily our retired sisters offer the gift of their prayer, suffering, and loneliness to strengthen the efforts of our sisters in active ministry.
As we age, we struggle each day with illnesses of the body and mind. And yet, we keep moving! Think of the sisters who drive others to appointments, and those who companion sisters to the doctors. Then there is the supply room staff who help meet our daily needs; the sisters who look after the tables in the dining room, and those who so faithfully sort the mail, deliver the newspapers, water the plants, or reshelf library books.
All these physical activities might seem inconsequential, yet they are part of what creates a comfortable and loving community. Each is done with a generous and prayerful spirit “for the life of the world” and the good of our beloved community.
These sisters deserve our recognition and inclusion in our stories about “hidden ministries.”
Sister Michela Collins has been a Dominican Sister of Springfield for nearly 7 decades, most of which she dedicated to teaching elementary school children. Since she “retired” to Sacred Heart Convent in 1997 she has served as a minister of prayer. One of her joys is the seasonal decorations she creates for the enjoyment of the sisters who share community on the second floor of Regina Coeli, the assisted care facility at the motherhouse.
To all the sisters at the Springfield motherhouse,
Sister Michaela was my beloved aunt. My heart breaks upon the news of her passing, but I know that she has gone home to God. Michaela gave everyone in our family her unconditional love and devotion. She personally prepared me for my 1st communion when I was a child. I can still remember how she used to come to our house and spend time with me, sharing her faith and teaching me so much about service and prayer. Make no mistake, our time together was filled with fun and laughter. I knew she must have been a fine elementary school teacher. Her sweet smile and gentle voice impacted my life in a very profound way. There is no doubt that she touched the lives of many young people, her multitude of students, as she was always a shining example of how to live a virtuous life. Since I was very young, I have found great joy in volunteering and serving in my community. I believe Michaela had a tremendous influence on me and I will always be grateful for her kind and thoughtful guidance.
I want to thank all the sisters who worked with and cared for Michaela throughout her life. For all of you who carried out your “hidden ministry,” the entire Collins family owes you a debt of gratitude.
Sister wrote, “As we age, we struggle each day with illnesses of the body and mind. And yet, we keep moving! Think of the sisters who drive others to appointments, and those who companion sisters to the doctors.” These were the very things that you all provided for her, and it truly filled her heart that you did it gladly and without hesitation. She continued, “Then there is the supply room staff who help meet our daily needs; the sisters who look after the tables in the dining room, and those who so faithfully sort the mail, deliver the newspapers, water the plants, or reshelve library books.” She appreciated and acknowledged those who performed even the smallest of tasks and wanted to make sure that no one went unnoticed for their efforts. Michaela put family, friends, and even strangers first. A truly selfless individual we admired, loved, and will sorely miss.
I and my entire family want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all the love and care that you gave to our treasured Sister. My cherished aunt. My dear friend, Michaela.
May she rest in peace in her new heavenly home.
Linda Collins
Linda, Thank you for this reflection on your aunt and our community.