Remarks from Sister Maureen O’Connor, OSF, Superior

Today, January 6, 2025, we begin the celebration of our 150th anniversary – a historic year for our community. 150 years ago, in the year 1875, the Kulturkampf raged with ever-increasing violence in Prussia and we had to fear that we would be banished just like other religious. Bishop Peter Baltes of Alton, Illinois, felt that the time had come to supply a pressing need of charitable Sisters who would provide health care services in his diocese. He wrote to the Motherhouse in Muenster, Germany to request they consider sending Sisters for this opportunity. In a letter from Mother General Bernhardine to Bishop Baltes, she explained that his appeal was granted because the acceptance of new members had become impossible due to the new religious laws. From this letter, our story in America begins and may this candle shine throughout this anniversary year as a symbol of our legacy.

Following the letter to Bishop Baltes, Mother Bernhardine sent a letter requesting volunteers to serve in America, and 20 Sisters were chosen. On the 6th day of each month, we will commemorate this anniversary. The 6th day of the month is significant because it was on November 6, 1875, that our 20 founding Sisters arrived in Alton, IL. Those 20 Sisters were brave and selfless as they walked into an unknown land. While we cannot know all the hardships they faced, we are certain of the results of their labors. The legacy they established has brought Christ’s healing presence to many people over these 150 years and the hospitals in Illinois and Wisconsin are a living example of what their trust and perseverance brought to life. As we embark on this year-long celebration, let us be thankful for those first sisters. The candles that will be brought forward will be shared with our 4 hospitals who also are celebrating their 150th anniversary this year. Representatives from the hospitals will visit here in the upcoming months.

In honor of the founders of St. John’s Hospital (Springfield, IL):
Mother Angelica, Sister Cyrilla, Sister Basilia, Sister Crispina, and Sister Ulrika

In honor of the founders of St. Francis Hospital (Litchfield, IL):
Sister Augustina, Sister Fridolina, and Sister Rosa

In honor of the founders of St. Anthony’s Hospital (Effingham, IL):
Sister Euphemia, Sister Fortunata, and Sister Franziska

In honor of the founders of St. Elizabeth’s Hospital (O'Fallon, IL):
Sister Gerburgis, Sister Jovita, and Sister Silvana

In honor of the Sisters who served in Alton, IL:
Sister Zosima and Sister Macaria

In honor of the Sisters who served in East St. Louis, IL:
Sister Rolendis, Sister Henriette, Sister Aurelia, and Sister Cassiana