A message from the Salesian Studies Office:
The Salesian Studies Office along with the Communications and Marketing department hosted a special evening last week that included learning about and celebrating Visitation, St. Francis and St. Jane.
Head of School, Dr. Jennifer Bigelow, welcomed those in attendance and opened the evening with prayer. Claire Kranz, '10, Director of Salesian Studies, and Helen Mary Hughesdon ‘64, both shared aspects of Visitation’s rich history and the beginnings of Salesian spirituality.
Each speaker led the group on a historical and spiritual journey through France to Washington D.C. ending in Saint Paul, sharing the unique history of the Order. Claire noted that we actually must go back to the time of Jesus and remember the story wouldn’t take place without him. Helen Mary’s historical account included 15 pivotal moments in Visitation’s Order and our own schools’ shared history. She touched on personal stories of her relationship with the Sisters, beginning with her father becoming the first Physics teacher at Visitation School in Saint Paul, her time as a student, teacher, and historian. All of these stories feature hardship and difficulty, overcome by resilient and determined women faithful to their vows of living Jesus.
The evening concluded with Archivist Colleen Hansen guiding the group on a Salesian Center tour of the monastery spaces. Guests heard stories of the Mendota Heights Sisters as they toured the former cloistered home.
Helen Mary’s 2023 book, The St. Paul Visitation Sisters: Their Charism Continues, was available for all who attended. If you are interested in obtaining a copy, please contact the Salesian Studies Office.
Watch for upcoming learning opportunities and the next Salesian event!
“May you be so attracted to this spirit that you will commit yourself to living Jesus with us in your own circle of life’s companions.”
Sister Marie Therese Ruthman, VHM, Saint Louis Visitation
Photo Credits: The Salesian Studies Office and the Mendota Heights Visitation Archives