To Stay and Crochet

Sister Constance’s move actually began during Holy Week of 2018 when she was hospitalized for a health issue.  From there she was transferred to the Felician Sisters skilled care facility in Chicago for four months.  Sister Constance recalled that when she recognized she could no longer live independently, she asked what her options were. She had the choice to remain where she was or to move to Marymount Place.  Sister Constance shared that, “To me it was another obedience, but I chose Marymount without any hesitation because I wanted to be and stay with my own Sisters.”  On October 25, Sr. Alexanne accompanied her on the plane, and together they flew to Cleveland, Ohio.  At their arrival the Sisters, nurses, and staff all welcomed Sister Constance to Marymount Place, and she settled into her new home.

Since October, Sister Constance has joined the weekly knitters club.  Technically she is a crocheter and is famous for having crocheted 1,316 prayer shawls since 2011 (when she began counting).  Among the many recipients of her shawls are Cardinal Cupich, the late Cardinal Bernardine, Pope Benedict XVI,  and Pope Francis.  Already she has crocheted 55 shawls since her arrival at Marymount Place.  Sister Constance says that her biggest challenge is getting used to wearing an oxygen cannula, but she is adapting to having this new addition in her life and doesn’t let it stop her from her prayer shawl ministry.  Sister Constance encourages others with these words, “If anyone has to move, move to Marymount!”