National Catholic Sisters Week is an annual celebration that shines a light on the spirituality, mission, and community building of women religious and the profound impact they make around the world.
This week throughout the country, women religious are honored through a series of events that teach, enlighten, and bring greater focus to the lives of these incredible women. It’s an opportunity to recognize all they have done for others.
To celebrate National Catholic Sisters Week, we will be profiling some of the Sisters of the Redeemer. Learn more about them. Let them inspire you.
Get to Know Sr. Katharina Pies
How were you first introduced to the Sisters of the Redeemer?
I met one of the Sisters on a bus trip from Wurzburg, Germany to Taize in France. She invited me to come and take part in a family festival that the Sisters of the Redeemer organized on the grounds of one of their convents in Wurzburg. I continued to spend time with a group of Sisters and friends who started a youth and family retreat program. I came to the U.S. as a Redeemer Ministry Corps Volunteer.
What is the best part of being a Sister of the Redeemer?
I like that in everything we do and everyone we meet, we invite our loving God in. We are living out the Gospel message through our own humanness. We laugh, we gather around the table, we pray, and enjoy each other’s company.
Do you have a hobby or something you like to do in your spare time?
I love the outdoors, especially hiking and seeing the world through the lens of a camera. I also appreciate spending time and having intimate and meaningful conversations with other people.
What is the best piece advice you have ever given?
Find ways to be God for others in your everyday life – give a much needed hug, lend a compassionate ear, always choose kindness – and God will guide you along the way.
What is your favorite scripture?
Psalm 63 “My soul thirst for you O Lord” speaks of the very deep desire and longing I have for my Redeemer and Beloved.
Where were you born?
I was born in Koblenz, Germany and raised in the great city of Koeln (Cologne), Germany.
What is your favorite food/meal?
Duebbekoche. This meal is kind a casserole made of potatoes, eggs, onions and bacon. In earlier days, it was called a poor person dish because many of the ingredients were grown in home gardens or they weren’t too expensive to buy. My parents make it for me every year when I go home.
What advice would you given someone discerning religious life?
Listen to your heart’s desire. Speak and share with someone you trust e.g. a spiritual mentor, a religious sister, brother, or priest.
What is your favorite season and why?
I love spring and fall the best. The nature is starting to bloom in spring and the change of the leaves in fall is something very spiritual and beautiful for me.
What social justice issue is of most concern to you?
There are so many social justice issues close to my heart. I love being with and ministering to the vulnerable – the elderly, the sick and the dying, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I find Jesus within them and receive hundredfold back.