Sister Emily TeKolste’s renewal of Vows

Sister Emily Tekolste renewed her vows of poverty, chastity and obedience with the Sisters of Providence Sunday, June 28, in the Good Shepherd Chapel at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. You can read a copy of her reflection here. During this time of Covid-19, sisters took the necessary precautions like wearing face masks and physical distancing. These protocols couldn’t dampen the spirit of thoughtful music, readings, the warm presence of family and friends and celebration for Sister Emily, who took first vows last year on June 30. Sister Emily gave a wonderful reflection on social justice and what that means to sisters, and all people, who wish to live out the Gospel message today.

A beautiful celebration flag blows in the wind during the ceremony.

Kim and Jeannie TeKolste, Emily’s parents, were able to attend.

Sister Dawn Tomaszewski welcomes everyone.

From left, Sisters Paula Damiano, Emily TeKolste, Lisa Stallings and Dawn Tomaszewski who leads the group in prayer.

Sister Tracey Horan signs and plays guitar, beginning with the opening song, God of the Women by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette.

Sisters Tracey Horan and Barbara Battista.

Sister Paula Damino (left) and Sister Emily listen to opening remarks.

Sister Emily’s mom, Jeannie, reads the first reading, Romans 6:3-4, 8-11.

Sister Tracey accompanies the group during the Responsorial Psalm 89, “Forever I will sing the goodness of God.”

Sister Emily TeKolste (center) gives a short reflection on what it’s meant to her to be a Sister of Providence this past year, and involved in a justice ministry in Washington, D.C. She urges others to work for fair treatment of all, especially those who experience racism and prejudice in our society.

Sister Emily signs her vow renewal.

Sister Lisa Stallings, vicar and general councilor, signs Sister Emily’s vow renewal with Sister Dawn Tomaszewski, general superior, looking on.

Sister Dawn Tomaszewski signs Sister Emily’s renewal of vows.

Sisters and guests pray for general intercessions.

From Left, Sisters Tracey Horan, Dawn Tomaszewski, Barbara Battista with Emily’s parents. Sister Marilyn Trobaugh is at right.

Kim and Jeannie TeKolste raise their hands in a special blessing for their daughter, after she has renewed her vows for another year.

Others present during Sister Emily’s renewal of vows during the blessing. From left, Sister Marilyn Trobaugh, Emily’s parents and Sisters Carole Kimes, Paula Damiano, Joseph Fillenwarth and Lisa Stallings.

The blessing of Sister Emily continues.

Glad tidings were issued to Sister Emily after her renewal of vows and blessing.