2008 Jubilarians

Mary Lucida Hoskens, SSND
Professed in 1938

Sister Mary Lucida Hoskens celebrates 70 years as a School Sister of Notre Dame. She has ministered as a teacher, homemaker, pastoral minister, SSND community leader and volunteer. Sister retired in 1991 and currently ministers through her prayer and presence.

A meaningful time in my ministry…
After 45 years of teaching primary grades, the opportunity came for me to tutor the Hmong people who settled in Appleton, WI. For four years I tutored the Hmong in the mornings, even going into their homes to help the mothers. The summer of 1983 was a memorable one, a dream came true. I attended a renewal with my class in Rome. Memories of these days are cherished.

What drew you to the SSND Community?
It was my mother’s prayers – the call in my heart.

What would you like people to know about the School Sisters of Notre Dame?
If you want to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ in mission countries, check us out.
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What words of encouragement or wisdom would you offer to a woman exploring the possibility of a vocation as a woman religious?
Follow the call in your heart – Jesus will show the way. Pray each day for guidance.
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What is your current ministry?
I’m retired here at Elm Grove. I have many opportunities to visit the sick. I’m a communion minister on weekends for the sick, distribute mail for two halls, and oversee our small chapel on Caroline Hall. I also enjoy painting and making cards.

Is there anything else that you would like to share with people about your life?
After my first three years of teaching at St. Margaret’s in Chicago, there was question of my staying in the convent due to poor health. However through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and prayers of Mother Fidelis, I promised my “Forever” and now have served 70 years in religious life. My heart sings for joy in thanksgiving for all blessings and gifts received.

Sister’s missions:
St. Elizabeth, Milwaukee, WI, 1936-1937
St. Margaret of Scotland, Chicago, IL, 1938-1941
St. Anne, Milwaukee, WI, 1941-1948
St. Mary, Elm Grove, WI, 1948-1951
St. John De La Salle, Chicago, IL, 1951-1956
St. John Baptist, Marshfield, WI, 1956-1962
St. Henry, Watertown, WI, 1962-1963
St. Elizabeth, Milwaukee, WI, 1963-1964
St. Vincent de Paul, Oshkosh, WI, 1964-1967
St. John Kanty, Milwaukee, WI, 1967-1969
Sacred Heart, Appleton, WI, 1969-1972
St. Charles Borromeo, Chippewa Falls, WI, 1972-1977
Catholic Central Grade School, Appleton, WI, 1977-1986
Motherhouse, Milwaukee, WI, 1986-1988
Visitation, Elm Grove, WI, 1988-1991
Retired, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Mount Calvary, WI, 1991-1993
Retired, Notre Dame of Elm Grove, Elm Grove, WI, 1993-Present