Meet the Sisters

S. Jackie Leech

For the past 15 years, S. Jackie Leech has enjoyed the privilege of ministering as chaplain at the Gardens at St. Elizabeth, a retirement facility in Denver, Colo. With approximately 230 residents in independent living, assisted living and memory care, she says the ministry has been “very enriching as I walk the spiritual journey with the men and women here.” In addition, S. Jackie serves as chaplain for the Denver Police Department. She rides with the police in the district, attends roll calls, assists at funerals, and gives invocations and benedictions at promotions, etc. She also listens and counsels as she rides with the officer. Both ministries, she says, are equally enriching, but in such different ways. We took this opportunity to learn more about our Sister from the west.

What do you enjoy most about being a Sister of Charity?

When I reflect on my life as a Sister of Charity what energizes me and what gives me joy are the relationships and the connectedness I have with so many Sisters. I love going to Community meetings, to the Motherhouse and to big gatherings because I feel such a bond – that so many women wish to serve God and one another in this Community of Charity. That I belong to a community of women who care about one another and this world of ours gives me hope. As a chaplain in a retirement facility, and a chaplain for the Denver police, I’m quite aware that I represent a larger whole; I’m just one little piece of the whole.

What is the best thing about Community life?

In belonging to a Community and pooling our resources (“woman power” and finances), we are able to help others much more than independently. The support and concern I have received when I have been sick and have experienced deaths in my family have meant so much to me. The fact that I belong to a larger group gives me the desire to contribute to the building up of our community and to be a responsible, loving member.

What do you do for fun?

I love to do anything outdoors. I like to participate in hiking, biking, skiing and snowshoeing. During the summer S. Betty Voss, BVM (the Sister with whom I live) and I go tent camping for long weekends. There’s something about cooking, eating outside and sleeping in a tent that nourishes my soul. S. Betty and I take each other on “mystery trips” where the one only knows what to wear and if to bring money! We’ve had some great trips and picnics. Enjoying God’s creation is wonderful. I also like to read, play pinochle and do art work.

What is your favorite way to connect with God?

When I speak and act from my heart – from my very center where God resides – is when I connect with God and experience peace, joy and love. Centering prayer helps me, as well as spending time alone with God. I enjoy going on little weekend retreats or taking hikes in the mountains where it’s easy to connect with God. Philippians 4:4 is my favorite Scripture passage – I like rejoicing in the Lord and giving thanks to God

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the piano, so I’m teaching myself. I decided a few years back that the only person keeping me from learning is me, so I bought the book “How to Play the Piano.” I got a small keyboard, read and did everything the little book told me to do. I have graduated to John Thompson Grade 4. It’s very hard for me but I’m plugging along. I’m also teaching myself how to draw and paint in watercolor. I figure if I can read, I can teach myself. I’ll never be a concert pianist or a Van Gogh but I sure enjoy playing and painting.

 

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