On October 1, 1850, two young teachers in Coesfeld, Germany, Hilligonde Wolbring and Elisabeth Kühling became Sister Maria Aloysia and Sister Mary Ignatia, respectively. Thus the Sisters of Notre Dame began their witness of God’s goodness and providence care. Now 176 years later their charism continues in the lives of 1200 Sisters of Notre Dame around the world in 19 countries.
Foundation Day is always observed with gratitude, joy, and community spirit among the sisters and the students in SND schools. Recalling that the founding story includes sharing sandwiches with hungry students, students today look forward to the annual treat of ice cream sandwiches. The stories of Hilligonde and Elizabeth are retold. Some schools form a pilgrimage to statues and icon of founding sisters. Parodies about “two loyal kindred hearts” are sung at Mass.
This year the observance of Foundation Day at Lial Renewal Center in Whitehouse, Ohio, takes on special significance. It opens the General Conference to which the assistants general, major superiors, and other sisters are invited. The gathering of 18 participants is designed to share knowledge of other countries and prepare for the future.
The spirit and charism of the Sisters has not wavered, thanks to God’s faithful love, the desire of each sister to deepen her discipleship, and the courage and imagination to meet the needs of the times.
