2008 Jubilarians

Eileen Curran, SSND
Professed in 1948

Sister Eileen Curran celebrates 60 years as a School Sister of Notre Dame. She has ministered as a teacher, director of religious education and director of ministry to seniors.

A meaningful time in my ministry…
I wanted to be a teacher, do religious education and ministry for seniors in their homes and at hospitals. The pastoral ministry that I’m now doing is very fulfilling. I visit people at the hospitals in West Bend and Fond du Lac as well as seven nursing homes and two assisted living homes.

What drew you to the SSND Community?
I got to know the School Sisters of Notre Dame at Holy Cross School in Milwaukee. When I went to Pius High School, they kept in touch with me. During confession, a very holy priest told me I was to become a nun.

What has it meant to you to be a sister through the years?
I can only say that it has been a wonderful experience. I’ve received the kindness and support from our SSND congregation – a degree in teaching from Mount Mary College in Milwaukee, a degree in religious education from Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee and a degree in pastoral care for seniors from Regis University in Denver.

What would you like people to know about the School Sisters of Notre Dame?
We are a group of special sisters who each love being a sister. We reach out to others in special ministries. We pray, have fun and like to celebrate life.

What words of encouragement would you offer to a woman exploring the possibility of religious life?
Come and see what SSND is all about and the many spiritual opportunities for a woman who wants to be a sister. There are many different ministries and the chance to have a wonderful education.

What is your current ministry?
My ministry is pastoral care for those in senior homes, St. Joseph Hospital and in their own homes. The ministry includes Holy Trinity in Kewaskum and St. Michael in the country.

Is there anything else that you would like to share with people about your life?
My life and ministry are very rewarding. I enjoy helping seniors and listening and praying with them. I am grateful that God has blessed me with good health. I feel blessed that I can be a part of their journey towards heaven.

Sister’s missions:
St. Anthony, Detroit, MI, 1946-1947
St. Boniface, Milwaukee, WI, 1948-1953
St. Peter and Paul, Wisconsin Rapids, WI, 1953-1963
Our Lady of Lourdes, Rice Lake, WI, 1963-1966
Sacred Hearts of Jesus & Mary, Sun Prairie, WI, 1966-1976
St. Frances Cabrini, West Bend, WI, 1976-1990
St. Michael/Holy Trinity, Kewaskum, WI, 1990-Present