Two Inspiring Women

Sisters Mary Benet Obear and Kathleen Egan
Two of our sisters went to heaven last week. Sister Kathleen Egan and Sister Mary Benet Obear were both women of deep faith and many gifts. Sister Kathleen was a teacher, librarian, writer, and friend of St. Teresa of Calcutta. Sister Mary Benet was a teacher, nursing home director, and librarian.

They were wise and holy women, but most of all they were women for others, especially the needy and vulnerable. They stood up for women's rights, for non-violence, for abolishing the death penalty, and for fair treatment of immigrants. Both sisters had hearts expansive enough to embrace all with compassion and mercy. They were encouragers. women who brought out the talents in others and supported their efforts.

Sister Kathleen had a radiant smile and loved to visit with people from all walks of life. No one was insignificant to her. She rejoiced in her students' achievements and worked indefatigably for peace and justice. She read the news avidly and never hesitated to speak truth to power.

Sister Mary Benet always had a twinkle in her eye and despite her back deformity continued to be active in community life. She was a wonderful story teller and endeared herself to young and old. She also was interested in politics and religious issues.

These two sisters leave a legacy of self-giving love. May that legacy live on in our Benedictine community of Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison, Kansas.


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