Sr. Mary Cornille, SLW  

Being a Sister has been my call as long as I can remember, probably since I met Sister Leona, the wonderful nun who taught me with love and vigor in first and second grade.  Lots of back-and-forth decision-making came between that time and my decision to leave college and enter the convent, but here I am now. 

Last summer I celebrated fifty years as a nun – overwhelming!  I found strong friendships among my Sisters and colleagues as atmosphere of prayer, and a vocation that challenges and rejoices my soul. 

Nine years of simultaneously teaching grade school and pursuing a degree in chemistry at St. Louis University rolled into working high school education for over thirty years.  Early on, I worked among those who had little and came to love people who were poor.  A few years in “heartland” high schools in Minnesota and Iowa, and most of all my years as teacher, counselor, or principal in Chicago city and inner–city high school proved great experiences.  I also did the fun and holy work of serving on a high school retreat team in Woodstock, Illinois for five years. 

Recently, my work has been shaped by my parents’ needs.  As they grew older and needed help, I changed my ministry to parish work and worked with the homebound, sick, elderly and youth at St. Ita Church, Chicago.  In l999, I was needed to be full-time caregiver at home, and the community has supported me with approval and an overflow of friendship. 

Right now, I am also involved in relationship, small group prayer and projects with the Associates of the Sisters of the Living Word, a great group of women and men who share the Living Word charism of new life. 

Mission Experience

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