This story is about Linda Hoefflin, the Director of Associates for the Marie de la Roche province and how, in her own words she came to be the Director.  

My connection with the Sisters of Divine Providence began more than 40 years ago as I worked in their sponsored hospital, St. Elizabeth in Granite City, IL. Within a little more than seven years, an Associate Relationship was developed, and I made the decision to join. As I look back, Providence has always been with me, leading me. These past 35 years have been a learning and enlightening process regarding the Charism and mission of the Community. Upon my retirement from nursing, I made the decision that my retirement would include giving back or giving forward for all the blessings that I had received during my career.

I could devote more time to the Associate Relationship. I was able to attend more meetings and participate on committees with the Sisters. About 2 years ago the position of Director of Associates became available. I felt drawn to the position and had three wonderful women, as previous directors, who could provide guidance. My ministry is energizing and challenging. As the numbers of vowed members decrease, I am tasked with ensuring that the vision and mission of Bishop Ketteler and Mother Marie (our founder and foundress) remain alive and well. I feel humbled getting to know the Associates of my community but also the Associate communities of the the Women of Providence in Collaboration. It is my time to give forward, to encourage others to follow Providence in its many facets.

To that end, I am finding new ways of recruitment in the electronic age. Since the pandemic, it has been even more of a challenge to come together. Zoom allows us to continue faith sharing and meeting with each other on a regular basis. Thankfully, I am not alone in my pursuit. Debbie Dillow and Barbara Baker, both members of WPC Community’s Associates, are just a couple of the people that share with me. With their help, I will succeed in making Providence more visible in our world.

Linda has been involved with Sisters of Divine Providence in the St. Louis area for many years.  She has always been an active Associate there as her nursing schedule would allow.  Now she has the opportunity to serve the Community across the province in a new way.  As she said, she wants “to make Providence more visible in our world.”

Barbara McMullen, CDP