In August 1973, I left St. Louis, Missouri and traveled by train to Hays, Montana to accept a position as Principal of St. Paul’s Mission School in Hays on Ft Belknap Reservation. During the next few years, 5 more Sisters joined me to teach and minister on Ft. Belknap. From there, after nine years, I moved to Great Falls at the request of Bishop Murphy to work for the Catholic Diocese. I lived there for 14 years and participated in various ministries. My favorite ministry was volunteering and teaching GED and Art Programs in Cascade County Jail, counseling, and providing books for inmates. I was also trained and volunteered as a Guardian Ad Litem.
In 1996, I was elected to a term of leadership in my congregation in New York. Leaving Montana was difficult, and I was determined to find a way to return. Fortunately, after I completed my term in leadership, Fr. Pete offered me an opportunity to live in Big Sandy while also being involved in St. Mary’s, Rocky Boy, and St. Anthony’s, Box Elder. So, of course, I jumped in the car and drove back to Montana as quickly as possible.
For the last 24 years, I have lived in Big Sandy in the former rectory which had been vacant for 14 years. The best part of these 24 years has been getting to know wonderful parishioners and other friends in Big Sandy. I have seen young people in this community participate in plays and music recitals; graduate and move away, some to return, others to work or start families elsewhere. I look at the Memory Boards in the church and BSMC and realize that the names I see are more than just names-they were good friends and/or faithful parishioners and will always be remembered.
A few weeks ago I found this quote “Everyone starts again sometime in life. It is in learning to accept the endings, to embrace the new beginnings, that makes all the difference.” I realize that it is time for me to embrace new beginnings. Part of this realization is that I am much older, and although still in good health, it is time to prepare and help the parishers with an inevitable transition. I will remain in the Big Sandy area, but decided to move out of the parish house in a few months and have found a rental that is just right for me. I intend to continue to be involved in outreach ministry.
Fr. Tran, our parishioners and I will help in making this a new beginning for the parish. It is an opportunity to bring forth our parishioners’ many talents; a time to work together, and to engage everyone in various ministries and as we work and pray together.
Thanks for a great 24 years!
