Multiple Faiths Represented at Women in Ministry Lunch
Women in ministry met with students during lunch to share their vocation stories for the second day of Catholic Schools Week.
PHOTO | Anna Tomka
Seniors Gabbie Ismert and Madi Weiseler sat with Sr. Barbara Smith from the Benedictine Sisters.
During this year’s Catholic Schools Week, the annual celebration of Catholic education, women of ministry came to Sion to have lunch with students Tuesday Jan. 31. It was the first time multiple religions were represented at the lunch.
“I think it’s cool that our school is so open and welcoming to all faiths,” junior Haley Ulowetz said. “I really hope they continue to invite an even wider variety of women next year to educate us.”
One of the attendees, Parish and Community Outreach Coordinator Camille Pickhinke, aimed to inspire students to serve and get involved in their community. Pickhinke works closely with TurnStyles thrift stores, a Catholic charity located in northeast Kansas City that discounts items to allow shoppers to save money as well as purchase other essential everyday items. Pickhinke is also involved with Refugee and Immigration Services, assisting with the resettlement of refugees into new homes.
“I have a heart for service and I desire to share that with others,” Pickhinke said. “It’s important to be an advocate for change, especially in a world like today where we need to love our neighbor.”
Sister Teresa Seaton of the Servants of Mary ministers to the sick and attended the lunch for the second time this year. She believes the lunch was key to helping girls consider what their vocation in life may be.
“I didn’t even know what a convent was and now I’m a sister ministering to the sick. We all have a vocation and for me, it’s really rewarding to help people,” Seaton said. “I’m hoping the lunch is exposure to a way of life that society doesn’t offer. These girls get the opportunity to encounter new people and use their life in whatever way God calls them.”
The lunch coincides with the mission statement of the school that is respectful of all other faith traditions, according to Theology Curriculum Coordinator Jessica Hull.
“It’s part of our mission to embrace those of other faiths,” Hull said. “We think it’s important for our girls to be exposed to women who are leaders of a variety of religions.”