February 19, 2010
Our Readers
Working with Sister Geraldine was a blessing
We have lost an amazing person, Sister Geraldine Heding-er. As Director of the Adult Office for formation, she has touched so many lives in so many ways. Our hearts are saddened in knowing we will never see her in person again, but we know she is with her God, who she served so faithfully.
I had the blessing of working with Sister Geraldine when I served as a Parish DRE for many years. Joyful and uplifting, she was always trying to make others happy. When I was struggling at one point on what to do next in ministry, she listened. She encouraged, af-firmed and yet, made me look at all sides of what was going on in my struggles. And then was there for you, in whatever choice you made.
In this world of “me’s,” she was all about taking care of others. Even when she found out about her cancer, I marveled at how her attitude was ”miracles can happen.” How I wish she had found her “miracle” and could still be with us. But God had other ideas.
She was of great help to all of us who worked with her. She loved life, but more than that, she loved God and that showed in everything she did. And fun, we had great laughs with her! I loved her stories of the great little tricks and surprises her housemates would sometimes use, especially Sister Jackie. Her presence will be missed by all of us who knew her, all of who loved her.
There is a saying — “some people pass through our lives, staying a short time, but leaving footprints on our hearts forever,” that was our Sister Geraldine. Rest in peace “Jelly bean,” you will always be in our hearts.
- Becky (Epperson) Siewers | St. John Bosco Youth Minister, Jasper
Remembering Sister Geraldine
I first met Sister Geraldine at the Catholic Center when I was working in the Catholic Schools Office. She always had a smile on her face and a positive attitude about everything.
It was truly my privilege later to participate in the spiritual direction internship program at Ferdinand over a period of two years. It was a precious opportunity to learn, pray, and share faith with Sister Geraldine and Sister Barbara (who led our group) and the other members of the cohort.
We gathered together for 20 weekends and explored a wide variety of theological topics, practiced our skills, and prayed together. It was a precious and wonderful life-changing experience.
I am so deeply grateful to have spent this time with Sister Geral-dine — never having imagined how short would be the remainder of her time here on earth.
My prayers continue to be with her family, the Sisters of St. Benedict, and the Diocese of Evansville. What a tremendous gift we have all experienced!
- Marie Williams | Lafayette, Ind