[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 67 (Tuesday, May 14, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S5016]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             TRIBUTE TO SISTER MARY BENITA O'CONNOR, R.S.M.

 Mr. BOND. Mr. President, I rise today to pay a special tribute 
to Sister Mary Benita O'Connor, R.S.M. It is a great pleasure to 
recognize Sister Mary Benita for her 60th anniversary in the religious 
profession and for her life-long dedication to serving others.
  A former member of St. Munchin's Parish in Cameron, MO, Sister Mary 
Benita entered the Sisters of Mercy novitiate in Council Bluffs, IA, on 
August 6, 1933. She made her first vows in March, 1936, and in August 
of the same year was assigned to teach business education, English, and 
religion classes at St. Mary's High School in Independence, MO. 
Following teaching assignments at Glennon High School, Kansas City, and 
the College of St. Mary's in Omaha, NE, Sister Mary Benita was once 
again assigned to St. Mary's, Independence.
  After completing 40 years of teaching, Sister Mary Benita became 
active in St. Mary's Parish Council where she served as parish 
ministries coordinator. As director of social ministries for the 
parish, she coordinated St. Vincent de Paul's outreach to the poor, the 
Legion of Mary's evangelization efforts, youth service activities, the 
Over 50 Club and Marian ministry. She continues her ministry to the 
hospitalized and homebound.
  Sister Mary Benita has been an active member of the Neighborhood 
Council, a board member on Meals on Wheels, has participated in 
neighborhood education programs and has held a continued interest in 
St. Mary's High School Alumni activities.
  Currently, Sister Mary is sponsoring faith development groups and is 
the librarian for the parish library. It is an honor to congratulate 
Sister Mary Benita on her long-lasting faithfulness to the Church and 
the Independence community. I wish her the best of luck on May 19, 1996 
at her celebratory Mass of Thanksgiving at St. Mary's, and also in all 
of her future pursuits. 

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