Diocese celebrates Religious Life

 

Bishop Edward Weisenburger celebrated a special Mass honoring Religious Brothers and Sisters in the Diocese of Tucson. Nine were recognized for Jubilarians anniversaries. In total the nine Jubilarians celebrated 465 years of Religious Life.  

 

Join us in congratulating and praying for:  

Sister Ann Mary Hart, O.S.F. 

Sister Carolyn Nicolai, F.S.P.  

Sister Jeanne Bartholomeaux, S.C.

Sister Esther Calderon, O.P. 

Sister Marlita Hensler, O.S.F. 

Sister Eileen Mahoney, C.S.A. 

Sister Carla Riach, O.S.F.

Sister Christy Joseph, D.S.T.  

Brother Javier Hansen, F.S.C. 

 

Religious Brothers and Sisters from across the Diocese of Tucson were recognized for dedicating their entire lives to prayer and service to God’s people. 

 

Diocesan Vicar for Religious, Sr. Jeanne Bartholomeaux, S.C., remarked, “These extraordinary men and women are some of the Brothers and Sisters who have encouraged us, prayed for us, educated us, and ministers in the schools where we were educated, nursed us, visited us and brought us Holy Communion to our homes, hospitals, and prisons. They counsel us and move our hearts with gifts of art and music. They comfort us in crisis and illness, they have guided us on the road to citizenship, when possible, ministered in parishes and organizations, and shared the journey of our lives, including the journey of the migrant and refugee.” 

 

Brother Javier Henson is a De La Salle Christian Brother who is celebrating his 10th anniversary of his religious vows. He has worked at several Catholic schools across the country and is currently teaching at San Miguel High School in Tucson. He described his life as a Brother as, “A rich tapestry of different experiences and listening to God’s call through my superiors. Without that, I would not have formed all the great relationships that I’ve formed, so thank you!” 

 

When you next see a Religious Brother or Sister, consider thanking them for their lifetime of service to those most in need. During the service, Sr. Jeanne said, “Thank you for being faithful to your vows and for the constancy with which you have loved and prayed for us.” She also reminded attendees that Religious Brothers and Sisters often work behind the scenes in their communities, “Thank you for your strength and selflessness during difficult times and in difficult places. Thank you for your attentiveness, proving that God is a God who loves and takes care of us through the people in our lives. Thank you for being present to our community.” 

 

Join us in praying for an increase of all holy vocations, especially to Religious Life.