Memories of Sister Mary Jean Meier

Much like the sea takes its color from the sky, Sister Mary Jean transformed the people she met with her quiet presence and intense interest in them.  She knew people's family history, their worries, their accomplishments, their struggles and their dreams.  Everyone she met became a friend.

She shared community with the Daughters of Charity for over twenty years and between Charity and Mercy, she lived her prayer and service.

Sister Mary Jean had strength, resilience and stamina which gave her a sense of fearlessness.

The same woman who could plan magnificent events for hundreds of people had one overwhelming fear --SUNDAY night meal preparation.  Rotating the Sunday meal meant that she had to cook dinner for 10-12 Sisters once every other month.  From her perspective the kitchen was a place you opened the refrigerator and took out a yogurt cup. Her signature dish-tapioca, was the only recipe in her cookbook. Period.

Planning and preparing the Sunday meal brought her to her knees where she sought deliverance, but seldom got it.  As her name moved up the duty list and HER Sunday approached, she stayed near home planning every minute of her food preparation. She laid out platters and dishes for cooking, and practiced turning the oven on and off.  At last, flushed and smiling she would set out a simple and tasty meal.  Fear would never win over her merciful heart!

No more Sunday meals, Sister Mary Jean! The eternal banquet has been prepared.  I hope they have tapioca!

--Sister Joyce Weller, DC