Sr. Helen Hengel - 80 years of consecrated life

Sr. Helen Hengel, SCSL

I was born in 1922 and raised in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan. I attended High School in Swift Current where I met the Sisters of Charity of St. Louis. Soon after I felt called by God to begin my life with the Sisters in Bienville, Quebec.

After the time of formation and profession of vows (1942), I returned to Western Canada teaching In Saskatchewan and Alberta until 1958. Then I moved to Medicine Hat to the Novitiate Formation community as Director until 1964. I was further blessed with the opportunity for religious studies in Rome, and then further studies in psychology and counselling in Calgary, Ottawa, and New York. My journey then was focused on spiritual direction, youth counseling (University of Calgary) and helping those who suffered from addiction and their families through recovery, counselling with AADAC, the 12 Step individual and group counselling. I also served those attending serenity retreats, and those in personal growth groups and retreats for women. 

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My life has been blessed as a Sister, which has brought me joy and peace, challenges for growth. I cherised the call to support God's people in their journeys and times for prayer, and contemplation with a long life being held in God's love.

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you." (Isaiah 26:3)

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Submitted by Sr. Helen for Faithfully.