2008 Jubilarians

S. Maryse Kontowski, SSND
Professed in 1948

Sister Maryse Kontowski celebrates 60 years as a School Sister of Notre Dame. She has ministered as a teacher, minister with the elderly, and secretary.

A meaningful time in my ministry…
I am very happy that I was able to go back to my grade school (St. Cyril and Methodius, Milwaukee) and teach eight years and to my high school (Notre Dame, Milwaukee) and teach five years. The heritage trip to Rome, Germany, Florence, Pisa and side trip to England was a special experience. It was wonderful to see where Mother Theresa lived.

What drew you to the SSND Community?
Initially, I was attracted by the sisters at St Cyril. My mother did crocheting for the sisters and would take me along when I was young. Then I had the School Sisters of Notre Dame for all my education, before I entered.

What has it meant to you to be a sister through the years?
I was very happy being able to teach students from grade four to twelve. Spiritually, I was able to grow in the love of Jesus, my Beloved.

What would you like people to know about the School Sisters of Notre Dame?
They are wonderful educators and spiritual persons who live by the rule “You Are Sent.”

What words of encouragement or wisdom would you offer to a woman exploring the possibility of a vocation as a woman religious?
First, to pray that Jesus gives you the grace to be one. Second, talk to sisters and learn what is expected of you. Third, when you feel this is what you want your life to be, see the vocation director to find how you will accomplish this.

What is your current ministry?
I am retired and serve through my prayer, presence and service. Prayer with community and private. Presence with sisters, visitors, and family. Service spending four days each week in the sewing room taking care of sisters’ needs.

Is there anything else that you would like to share with people about your life?
I am very happy. Our Lord has blessed me for these sixty years with all its joys and sorrows.

 

 

 

 

 

    

Sister's missions:
St. Joseph, Appleton, WI, 1946-1947
St. Stanislaus Kostka, Chicago, IL, 1948-1963
Columbus High School, Marshfield, WI, 1963-1965
Notre Dame High, Milwaukee, WI, 1965-1970
Lourdes High School, Oshkosh, WI, 1970-1971
Messmer High School, Milwaukee, WI, 1971-1972
St. Mary, Menasha, WI, 1972-1974
St. Cyril and Methodius, Milwaukee, WI, 1974-1982
St. John Kanty, Milwaukee, WI, 1982-1984
Care of Parents, Milwaukee, WI, 1984-1989
Holy Assumption, West Allis, WI, 1989-1991
Franciscan Evangelization Center, Milwaukee, WI, 1991-1991
St. Helen, Milwaukee, WI, 1991-1999
Retired, Notre Dame of Elm Grove, Elm Grove, WI, 1999-Present