About the Sisters

About the Ursuline Sisters

As Ursulines, we are women committed to a mission of service to and empowerment of others, living simply and faithfully, guided by the legacy and counsel of our foundress, St. Angela. We invite you to share in our lives through these pages.

Sister Spotlight

Since our founding in 1535, Ursulines have lived the lives of contemplatives in ministry. Here seven of our Central Province sisters share about their lives as contemplatives.

Sister Elizabeth Susan Hatzenbuehler
Sister Elizabeth Susan Hatzenbuehler
“The invitation to be contemplative for me invites a smiling heart and travels back to a retreat near Grottaferrata, Italy.”
Sister Lois Castillon
Sister Lois Castillon
“As I dip into my prayer of contemplation every morning, I feel Angela’s words in my heart.”
Sister Thomas More Daly
Sister Thomas More Daly
“Christ’s presence is the grace given to me by letting myself be loved by Jesus.”
Sister Chabanel Mathison
Sister Chabanel Mathison
“Christian Meditation moves aside the clutter of my mind and heart and makes room for the awareness of being immersed in Holy Mystery.”
Sister Mary Ellen Neeves
Sister Mary Ellen Neeves
“To be contemplative is to look, to listen, to be still in the face of what is.”
Sister Carolyn Marie Brockland
Sister Carolyn Marie Brockland
“I try to be a contemplative by paying attention, noticing the ways in which God is present all around me—in nature, in people, in events, in my reflections and prayer.”
Sister Theresa Davey
Sister Theresa Davey
“God does most of the action in helping me be a contemplative. Three pieces of wisdom assist me to be receptive to that action.”

Jubilarians

In 2024 we celebrate the jubilees of seven of our sisters who have ministered to God’s people a total of 455 years. Throughout their years of commitment to Ursuline life and ministries, these daughters of Angela have made a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals.

In Remembrance

“I am more alive now than when I was with you.”
—St. Angela Merici

We remember with gratitude the lives of our sisters who recently passed and their years of service and commitment to being a peaceful, reconciling presence of God in the world.

Contact a Sister

Would you like to reconnect with an Ursuline Sister whose presence had special meaning in your life? Complete the form below and we’ll be happy to forward your request to the sister or give you updated information about her, as appropriate.

    Live in harmony, united in one heart and one will.

    St. Angela Merici

    Have faith and keep up your courage.

    St. Angela Merici

    Seek to spread peace and concord where you are.

    St. Angela Merici