[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 76 (Monday, May 18, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S5553]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ADRIAN DOMINICAN SISTERS

 Mr. LEVIN. Madam President, service to your community and to 
those most in need is one of the most important legacies we can leave 
as individuals or as institutions. It is with this in mind that I am 
honored to congratulate the Adrian Dominican Sisters, the Congregation 
of the Most Holy Rosary as they celebrate their 125th anniversary 
today. Guided by the humble yet inspiring mission to seek truth, make 
peace, and reverence life, this congregation has made a profound and 
enduring impact on many lives.
  The Adrian Dominicans trace their history back to the establishment 
of the Holy Cross convent in 1233. A presence in the United States was 
established in 1853 with the arrival in New York of three sisters from 
this convent. Since the establishment of a hospital for injured 
railroad workers in 1884 to meet a pressing need in the Adrian 
community, the sisters of this congregation have devoted their energy, 
talent, and efforts in pursuit of meeting the spiritual, educational, 
and practical needs of those within the Adrian community and those far 
beyond its borders. Mother Camilla Madden was the first mother 
provincial, and she became the first mother general when the province 
became an independent congregation in 1923.
  Adrian has grown steadily since its founding and has not only 
maintained a presence in Adrian, but has branched out into communities 
far beyond through ministries in 31 States, the District Of Columbia, 
Puerto Rico, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Italy, and Swaziland. The 
Adrian Dominican Sisters currently number more than 900 and are 
involved in ministries primarily in areas of education, health care, 
and social work. The congregation currently sponsors two universities, 
including Siena Heights University; two hospital systems; a long-term 
health care facility; three congregation-owned schools; and two retreat 
centers.
  The Adrian Dominican Sisters have impacted many throughout its rich 
history, and I am truly delighted to recognize this impressive 
milestone, as well as their many important contributions over the 
years. Their influence and service to the community are apparent and 
appreciated by the many who have benefitted from their many spiritual 
and outreach efforts. I know my colleagues join me in congratulating 
Adrian Dominican Sisters on 125 years of dedicated service, and I wish 
them continued success as they build upon their legacy of 
accomplishment and excellence.

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