The Women Who Helped Shape America

Fr. Jack Wall
President, Catholic Extension 

One of the true privileges I have as president
of Catholic Extension is to travel to the
poorest places in the United States. Wherever
I go, I find hope inspired by the transformative
power of faith. It's no coincidence that I
also find women religious. Sisters of Mercy, Daughters of Charity, Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament and so many more. All are working
tirelessly and joyfully to nurture that faith.

The history of women religious in our country could fill volumes. They built our schools, founded our hospitals and developed our social service agencies. And they have asked nothing in return except to be allowed to serve "the least of these" as Christ commanded.

That's why Catholic Extension is "Celebrating Women Religious" in our latest issue of EXTENSION. We've included numerous features we hope you'll enjoy, such as the news that we've established "The Sister Marguerite Bartz Fund." This fund supports the work of women religious and the ministries they've created and inspired in the name of a sister who gave her life in service. You'll also find
a feature on "Women & Spirit," a historical exhibit on sisters and nuns that's traveling the country this year, and a roundtable discussion I conducted with four extraordinary sisters who offer insight into the past, present and future of women religious in America.

I hope our focus on women religious calls to mind a dedicated sister who helped shape your life. Please pass this issue along to others as well. Your involvement and support mean so much to us.

Rev. John J. Wall
President, Catholic Extension