The stories behind our sisters’ patron saints
Sister Pamela Mae Geiger
My patron saint is Mary, especially the Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth. I chose this feast because like Mary I want to be a Christ bearer to all those I meet along the way during life.
Sister Patrycia Sweeney
St. Patrick is my patron saint. I chose it because my mother wanted me named Patricia at my Baptism but was too sick to attend and one of her sisters insisted that the pastor name me after my grandmothers. She got to him before my dad arrived, so the pastor went ahead and listened to her. (She was my godmother also.) So, at Investment, I gave the name back to my mother. I had to spell it differently because back then, we were not allowed to duplicate spellings of anyone in the congregation, hence the Y in place of the I.
Sister Shauna Bankemper
My patron saint is St. Pope John XXIII. I chose him because he is the pope to call the Second Vatican Council. There was much about Pope John that everyone was attracted to, like his courage to call the Council and the energy that resulted from the changes that followed. When John XXIII was canonized, October 11 was designated as his feast day, the day he called the Second Vatican Council.
Sister Rita Geoppinger
My patron saint is St. Rita of Cascia. Rita was my baptismal name and my father, in particular, liked the name and chose it for me so this is what gives it a special meaning for me. However, I do like this saint as the patroness of lost and impossible causes. Her married life was very difficult with an abusive husband. After 18 years, Rita softened his harsh demeanor but he was eventually murdered as a result of past political feuds. Ultimately, her two sons were also killed trying to avenge the murder of their father. This turn of events left Rita free to become a religious sister which had been her heart’s desire from her childhood. She reminds me that patience and perseverance pays off.
Sister Mary Pat Kenney
St. Patrick for my uncle Pat, who was an inspirational figure in my life and always exemplified kindness and unwavering support.
Sister Mary Luann Bender
My patroness is Mary under the title of her Immaculate Heart. It’s because the love of a mother, symbolized by her heart, that I chose Mary under this title, and I pray to Mary, that I may imitate her love, her compassion and her closeness to Jesus.
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