Meet the Sisters

S. Barbara Hagedorn

What do you enjoy most about being a Sister of Charity?
I enjoy being able to live out my vocational calling in this group of dedicated, prayerful women following in the footsteps of our founder, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. My belonging to the Sisters of Charity has given me a great deal of support and challenge which has made me a better person. It has taught me that community is a place where my relationship with God can be nourished and strengthened.

What is the best thing about community life?
Sharing life with others in community helps me appreciate the many gifts we have to offer each other. The various people I have lived with have helped me to learn life lessons about community life. I have some wonderful friends in community and I have had opportunities to meet people of various cultures who have taught me about commitment to Christ and to the poor. I value the companionship which community life emphasizes in a very real and tangible way.

What do you do for fun?
I love to walk, read, garden, travel and spend time with family and friends. I also enjoy photography – I’m a real amateur – but I like to try framing a picture in a unique way. The “delete” feature on the camera is a real asset for me in this endeavor!

What is your favorite way to connect with God?
My favorite way to connect with God is through nature. Listening to the sounds of nature and seeing the sights of a waterfall, a mountain, or a sunset, for example, speak to me of the presence of God.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?
When I decided to enter the Sisters of Charity, I wasn’t sure about my decision but knew it was something I had to try. I figured I would see how things went but that I probably wouldn’t stay. Here I am 45 years later and very glad God had other plans for me!

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