Meet Sister Helen

"Deep within I hear, 'I will show you the path I have chosen for you' "

When I was 7-years-old, I attended St. Michael's School, where Sisters of St. Joseph taught me. Sisters Imelda, Norah and Fleurette were all women who touched my life.

A different path

During high school, when asked what I'd do after graduating, I would respond, "Get married and have a dozen children." However, God chose a different path for me. The presence of the Sisters spoke to a deeper part of me, the part that wanted to help others and know more about God.

In September 1962, at age 19, I entered the Sisters’ community. After novitiate, I completed studies in Home Economics at Ryerson University and the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education. I thought I was settled into many years of teaching, but God had chosen another path. After only six years, I became Director of Food Services at Morrow Park.

I discovered clay

Eight years later, during a sabbatical, I discovered clay. It didn't come with patterns or directions. I had to create from within. Little did I know the significance of this little piece of clay! Another ministry path evolved. I completed a degree in Studio Arts and then worked with the elderly at Providence Health Care, where I taught pottery for three years. Now, 18 years later, I continue to teach pottery. Deep within, I hear, “I will show you the path I have chosen for you.”

People experience peace

At Studio on the Hill, where I teach pottery classes, I strive to live out our commitment to nurture community. Everyone is welcome. Working with clay helps people experience peace, healing and relaxation.

I am secure in the knowledge that I am following the path chosen for me. I am making a difference. My children's classes have multiplied far beyond the dozen children I had hoped to birth. All this encourages me to continue.

To read more Sisters' Stories, please see Meet A Sister