We celebrated Sr. Agathe’s 70th anniversary as a Little Sister in December. We were happy that several members of her
family could join us for this event. Guests arrived from her home state of Colorado and one of her younger brothers flew
in from Germany with his family. The highlight of the day was the beautiful jubilee Mass. Following the ceremony, two of
our volunteers arranged a festive luncheon reception and presented a tribute video they created to capture Sister’s years
of service. We were fortunate to set up a surprise visit by our new Pope a.k.a. Resident Paul Scherer who played the role
well, dressing up as the Pontiff to make a special “papal blessing.”
Click here to see photos from the day.
Sr. Agathe and a classmate started volunteering at the Little Sisters Mullen Home in Denver during the 7th grade. She grew
up at 32nd Ave. and Meade St., almost across the street from the home where her mother attended daily Mass. She was one
of three girls in a family of 11 children. What she remembers from that time was making friends with the elderly and feeling
very much at home.
She said that she knew at a young age that she wanted to give her life to God and was single minded in her pursuit. In high
school she felt she was being called to consecrated life.
Sr. Agathe entered the order at 16 after completing high school. One of her earliest memories was being at the bedside of a
dying Resident. It made such an impression on her to be with someone right before they would be seeing God.
Eventually she became a mother superior. Her first assignment was here in Chicago. Over the decades, she served in many
homes including St. Paul, Minn. and Mobile, Ala. She most enjoyed preparing for the Residents’ parties. She also worked
many years in thekitchens where she “loved spoiling everyone.”
“Be open,” answered Sr. Agathe when I asked her if she had any words of advice for someone contemplating religious life.
One aspect of being a Little Sister that she enjoys in knowing you are part of one big family.
We ended our little conversation when I asked her if it was all worth it becoming a Little Sister. Without any hesitation, she
smiled and said “yes.”
Sr. Agathe, we are glad you did!
Celebrating 70 Years of Service