LCWR Gathering Offers Insights and a Tribute to Sister Eileen

Written on: April 30, 2026

By Marianne Kitzmiller

On April 28 and 29, the leadership team attended the LCWR Region 3 spring gathering at Mother Boniface Spirituality Center. The entire leadership team was in attendance, including Co-Executive Directors Debbie Adams and Marianne Kitzmiller. An unexpected and moving moment came on the second day, as our own Sister Eileen White was honored in a powerful personal testimony shared during the gathering.

Tuesday’s agenda included an in-depth discussion on Interculturality presented by Sister Ivette Diaz, RSM. Sister Ivette discussed ways to radically welcome all cultures and the power of giving each other an equal voice in our communities.

On Day 2, Sister Meagan Patterson, SSJ, Executive Director of Dawn’s Place, educated the region on sex trafficking by providing shocking statistics and summarizing the work that Dawn’s Place does to assist the female victims of sex trafficking.

A former resident of Dawn’s Place then addressed the region, courageously sharing her personal story of trauma, addiction, and exploitation. She spoke of being accepted into Dawn’s Place for treatment when she was struggling, and more importantly, how Sister Eileen White helped her in her journey through recovery and sobriety.

She credited Sister Eileen as a lifesaving presence in her life and spoke with deep gratitude for the role she played in her healing. There was not a dry eye in the room as attendees listened to her moving story of redemption and courage, love of the Blessed Mother, and her love and gratitude for our own Sister Eileen.

This entry was posted in Matters of Faith