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.
National Catholic Sisters Week: Get to Know Sr. Barbara Deitrich
How were you first introduced to the Sisters of the Redeemer?
I saw an advertisement in a magazine “Knights of the Columbus” about the Sisters. I had it on my desk at home but never contacted them. But God used someone important to me to introduce me to the Sisters. She wrote for information pretending to be me. This was the beginning of my journey to get to know the Sisters of the Redeemer.
What is your favorite movie?
I have two favorites—Field of Dreams and Return to Me
What is the best part of being a Sister of the Redeemer?
Being called to follow in the footsteps of Blessed Alphonse Maria and to carry out her mission daily and to be part of her legacy of caring for all those who I encounter in my ministry.
Do you have a hobby or something you like to do in your spare time?
I like to read and do needle work and go to the movies.
What is the best advice you have ever given?
On our journey through life, always remember that God is walking along side us and at times, God may have to carry us. My mother always reminded me to say Thank God for a prayer that may have have been answered.
What is your favorite scripture?
Luke’s Gospel: The Women Bent Over
Luke 13: 10-17
He was teaching in a synagogue on the sabbath. And a woman was there who for eighteen years had been crippled by a spirit; she was bent over, completely incapable of standing erect. When Jesus saw her, he called to her and said, “Woman, you are set free of your infirmity.” He laid his hands on her, and she at once stood up straight and glorified God. But the leader of the synagogue, indignant that Jesus had cured on the sabbath, said to the crowd in reply, “There are six days when work should be done. Come on those days to be cured, not on the sabbath day.” The Lord said to him in reply, “Hypocrites! Does not each one of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger and lead it out for watering? This daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound for eighteen years now, ought she not to have been set free on the sabbath day from this bondage?” When he said this, all his adversaries were humiliated; and the whole crowd rejoiced at all the splendid deeds done by him.
What is your favorite food or meal?
I like a turkey dinner. Also, scallops
What advice would you give someone discerning religious life?
It is important to make time to pray and talk to God about what is in your heart. Listen to God, he may be speaking to you in strange ways but trust in his presence in your life. The journey may not be easy but he is with you along the way. Remember you are not in control. He gets you where he wants if you just trust him.
What is your favorite season?
I love the seasons of spring and autumn. To see creation come alive after a cold and dormant winter and then see the fall so beautiful color change into a beautiful work of art.
What social justice issue is of most concern to you?
The issue of respect and dignity of all human life. The importance and care of the unborn and the care of our elderly. Life is a Gift from God. We all need to ask ourselves “how do I care for these precious gifts?”