I was born in Chicago in 1943, the middle of three girls. When I was a sophomore in High School, I went to volunteer through my Girl Scout troop at a nursing home on the east side of Chicago where the Sisters served. Eventually I become a Carmelette at the nursing home because I enjoyed working with the residents so much. I entered the Congregation in 1961 upon completion of High School. After my years as a Novice and professing my Vows as a Carmelite Sister for the Aged and Infirm, I was sent to the Kahl Home in Davenport, Iowa and was given the opportunity to attend Nursing School to become a registered nurse in 1967 and later attended St. Ambrose University to obtain my Administrators License and also completed my BA. Over the years I have been missioned in several facilities served by the Sisters in Joliet, Illinois, Trumbull, Connecticut, the Bronx, New York and Columbus, Ohio. In 1981 I was appointed to the role of the Novice Director for 10 years. I returned to Iowa for 6 years and back to the Motherhouse to serve as Novice Director for four more years. Once again, I was sent back to the Kahl Home where I am presently located.
I celebrated my Golden Jubilee this year and as I look back on my Religious life, I must say that these 50 years have gone by quickly. There have been ups and down but the Lord has been faithful and has been with me on this beautiful journey!
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Sister Lois Joseph Baniewicz, O.Carm