Fifty-two weeks a year women religious stand with the poor and immigrants, teach children, fight injustice, heal the sick, share spirituality, empower women, defend the planet, promote peace, create community and offer hope … But for one week, the spotlight will shine on women religious. Catholic Sisters Week (CSW) is an annual March 8–14 celebration. It was created to honor women religious and bring greater focus to the lives of these incredible women.
This year, we’re celebrating 10 incredible years of Catholic Sisters Week. In honor of this milestone, we’re shining a spotlight on IHM Sisters in ministry, highlighting their decades of dedication and the many ways they serve God’s people.
From their 30s to their 90s, our sisters are making a difference in education, guardianship, formation, human trafficking, social justice, spirituality and so much more—proving that age is just a number when it comes to living out one’s calling. Their energy, wisdom and faith continue to inspire us all! Join us as we celebrate their tireless work and share their stories.
Audra Turnbull, IHM
As a professional guardian and field director, I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside those in need, bringing hope, dignity, and compassionate care to those I serve.”
Audra Turnbull, IHM
For the past 10 years, Sister Audra Turnbull has been privileged to serve in various roles with Compassionate Companions, a professional guardianship agency in Southeast Michigan. Currently, as the field director, she manages the staff guardian team while continuing to serve as a guardian. Service is at the heart of my ministry. She is entrusted with great responsibility in her role—connecting clients to resources that foster independence and advocating for their needs when their voices go unheard.
Through the lens of servant leadership, she strives to embody the IHM commitment to fostering right relationships and advancing the liberating mission of Jesus Christ. Sister Audra’s ministry of guardianship is a profound witness to the power of advocacy. She ensures that each person she serves is seen, heard, and valued with the dignity they deserve.
Jane Aselytyne, IHMSister Jane (center, back row) is pictured with Catholic Sisters from different congregations at the Religious Formation Conference office.
This Catholic Sisters Week, we celebrate the many ways IHM Sisters continue to serve and shape religious life. Jane Aseltyne, IHM, currently ministering at the Religious Formation Conference (RFC), embodies this commitment through her work in administration, program development and formation initiatives.
One of her key projects, Ongoing Formation Circles, brings together women and men religious across congregations to reflect on the meaning and relevance of their vows today. This initiative fosters deep conversation and renewal in religious life, strengthening the bonds of shared vocation.
Later this year, Sister Jane will begin full-time study at Loyola University of Chicago for a PhD in theology. Jane shares, “I look forward to carrying on the IHM tradition of education, justice, and being a voice in the field of theology.”
Diane Brown, IHM
The work is both challenging and inspiring because these men have truly been to the depths of hopelessness yet retain their joy in being alive and living out God’s purpose for them.
Meet Sister Diane Brown, a beacon of hope and transformation at the Detroit Pope Francis Center Bridge Housing Campus. As the Curriculum and Data Manager, she develops and teaches classes that empower men experiencing homelessness on their journey toward permanent housing. “The work is both challenging and inspiring because these men have truly been to the depths of hopelessness yet retain their joy in being alive and living out God’s purpose for them,” shares Sister Diane. The Pope Francis Center is dedicated to helping its guests unlock their potential so they can realize a brighter future. Sister Diane’s dedication reflects the IHM’s commitment to justice, compassion, and the dignity of every person. This week, we honor her and all Catholic Sisters who serve with love and faith!
Ann Oestreich,IHM
For far too many, human trafficking remains an invisible crime—hidden in plain sight, devastating lives, and operating within our communities. Yet, thanks to the unwavering commitment of Catholic Sisters worldwide, this darkness is brought into the light. Since 2011, Sr. Ann Oestreich has been a leader in the efforts to end human trafficking. She was one of the founding members of U.S. Catholic Sisters Against Human Trafficking, now known as the Alliance to End Human Trafficking. Under her leadership, the organization has grown to include 120+ congregations of women religious, Catholic coalitions, universities, health systems and individual partners working together to end this injustice. Today, we honor Sister Ann and all who stand for dignity, justice, and freedom.
Camille Brouillard, IHM
Sister Camille Brouillard, IHM, lives out her calling through acts of service, compassion and love. She ministers in many ways, always bringing care and kindness to those around her. Sister Camille supports sisters by helping them move home to the Motherhouse, driving them to appointments, retrieving needed items, and offering friendship and presence through her visits. She also serves on the IHM Haiti Committee and volunteers for Oaks of Righteousness Village.
Her ministry truly reflects servant leadership and the IHM spirit of love in action. Join us in celebrating Sister Camille and how she brings hope and care to others!
Anne Wisda, IHM
At over 90 years young, Sister Anne Wisda embodies justice, peace, and dedication. She advocates for Haiti through the IHM Haiti Committee, supports the Martin Luther King, Jr. Committee’s Days of Prayer and Service, and offers hope through long-term correspondence with an incarcerated pen pal.
From her computer, she stays active by signing petitions and supporting justice efforts with groups like Stronger Together Huddle and Network. Each month, she leads “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” a prayer vigil for those affected by the death penalty, calling for an end to state-sponsored violence. Sister Anne’s unwavering commitment proves that age is no barrier to action. We celebrate her incredible work and thank her for inspiring us all!
We celebrate the incredible work of all the IHM Sisters, who continue to make a difference in education, guardianship, formation, social justice, spirituality, human trafficking, and so much more. Throughout the decades, Our sisters have diversified their ministries and evolved to meet the world’s current needs, always responding with faith, courage, and a deep commitment to service. Thank you for joining us in honoring these remarkable women. Let’s continue to carry their spirit forward every day!
If you want to join the celebration, please send a card or video to ihmcommunications@ihmsisters.org or 610 West Elm Avenue, Monroe, MI 48162.