SSMO
Thank you for supporting the ‘Hands on’ for the Poor gloves and mittens drive. Together, the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon campus community collected more than 500 pairs of gloves, mittens to donate to local community organizations.
From Vinyl to Digital – A centennial album finds new life in the digital age.
Music education has been interwoven into the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon’s ministry from its beginning. They developed programs, built a curriculum, and taught one another. Through this work, the Sisters built a legacy of working together, preparing others to stand on their shoulders.
As you can see from this issue of “Spirit Magazine,” the Sisters of St.Mary of Oregon have always had a love of music. They opened their first music school, St. Mary’s institute in 1893, offering music lessons to the public.
The Abaria Family Establishes Endowed Scholarship at Valley Catholic Music School
“It’s been quite a learning curve for me,” explained Missy Martin, whose mother Marilyn is a resident at Maryville Memory Care. “There was a time period where she could come home for the holidays, now it is better to visit here at Maryville instead.”
The Valley Catholic High School Concert Choir has been invited to perform at the University of Portland’s Advent Vespers Concert on Friday, December…
This year’s Light-a-Fire video honors the life and legacy of Pat Roshak Joyaux ’54, whose warmth, kindness, and steadfast faith reflected her deep dedication to Valley Catholic School’s mission of excellence in education. Her enduring legacy shines through every student whose opportunity to learn and grow is made possible through tuition assistance.
In observance of World Day of the Poor, the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon are collecting gloves and mittens to share with local nonprofits.
Congratulations to Megan Hoffman ’04 – the recipient of the 2025–26 Distinguished Alumni Award.
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon, Valley Catholic School and Maryville provide possibilities for people through faith, education and compassionate care.
A lifetime of creative service to God. April 4, 1927 – October 12, 2025 Sr. Angeline (also known as Sr. M. Edward Clare)…
Register today for VCS Gala and celebrate all things VCS at the 29th annual Gala on Nov. 8.
Valley Catholic School is hosting two fun and engaging open house events. The open houses will be great ways for you to experience VCS through these hands-on, interactive events. You will meet with administrators and teachers, take a tour of our school and learn more about VC’s unique educational experience.
October is recognized as the month dedicated to the Rosary. The Rosary is a powerful and meditative prayer practice in the Catholic faith.
Women who are discerning religious life are invited to joint the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon and other Pacific NW religious congregations for a special weekend retreat.
We are saddened by today’s tragic events at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon are holding a special prayer for the victims, families, teachers and parishioners of Annunciation Catholic Church and School during their evening prayer service tonight.
In response to Pope Leo XIV’s appeal, The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon invite their entire campus community to join them in praying for peace with the Holy Father, Catholics and other faithful people worldwide.
We have room for a few more students at VCS this school year. This is great news for parents who are looking for an enriching educational experience.
Help us spread the word today.
The 2025 Jubilee Mass took place on Sunday, July 27, in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Chapel, followed by receptions on campus where family, friends, and community members gathered to honor these extraordinary women. The celebration recognized Sisters Elizabeth Sohler, Theresa Hathaway, Marcella Parrish, Marilyn LeDoux, Elma Heesacker, Marie Bernadette George, Sara Goggin, and Theresa Lan Nguyen.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become women…
From classrooms to chapels and gardens to global journeys the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon celebrated the Jubilees of eight women with 515 combined years of faith in action.
We invite you to continue honoring the Sisters’ legacy in education and health care by making a will during National Make-A-Will Month. It is a powerful way to care for your loved ones and extend your values into the future.
Last month, the Catholic Media Associate (CMA) honored the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon Ministries Corporation with the award for Best New Website.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become women…
The new Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon (SSMO) leadership team for 2025-30 was installed at a special Mass on Sunday, June 29 at 9 a.m. at the Sisters’ Our Lady of Perpetual Help Chapel inside the SSMO Motherhouse.
Sister Theresa Lan Nguyen is celebrating her 25th Jubilee. Her amazing life spans both continents and cultures.
Sister Elma Heesacker is one of the most joyful Sisters at the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon. As she celebrates her 70th Jubilee, she attributes her joy to being able to serve her Sisters in so many ways throughout her life.
Sister Theresa Hathaway, celebrating her 75th Jubilee, found joy in following God’s call. She clearly remembers being called to religious life one Saturday when she decided to visit the chapel.
Sister Elizabeth Sohler is celebrating her 75th Jubilee. The seeds of God’s love took root through her early childhood connection to the Sisters.
Sister Marie Bernadette George is also celebrating her 70th jubilee. She is the living example of putting something on paper in order to see it through.
Sister Marcella Parrish is celebrating her 70th Jubilee. She is a career educator and life-long artist who says, “It is a blessing to serve with love.”
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon join the global Catholic community in welcoming Pope Leo XIV, newly elected as the 267th Bishop of Rome.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become women…
As we reflect on this year of Jubilee, we pause to hear from three people whose lives and work reflect this shared mission.
By: Lizette Santiago
It was a par-fect day out at Pumpkin Ridge. Relive the golf, fun and sun through our Flickr album.
With the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, we all have a new advocate in heaven. Let us attempt to honor his legacy by imitating his gracious life.
Thank you for the generous gifts you made during Give:24, our annual campus-wide day of giving. Together, we uplifted the entire SSMO campus community.
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon join the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis.
By: Lizette Santiago
The Stations of the Cross at The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon knit together history, community, and faith.
By: David Cherrytree
Recently, our Community held its General Chapter meetings. This is a special time of prayer and collaboration that we partake in once every five years.
Catch the rhythm of summer at the Valley Catholic Music Camp. No experience necessary – the focus is having fun with friends who also love music.
SSMO Heritage Prayer Service Prepared by VCES 2nd Graders Valley Catholic Elementary School held their annual SSMO Heritage Prayer Service in the Motherhouse…
March is SSMO Heritage Month—a time for the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon and their entire campus community to reflect on and celebrate the Sisters’ nearly 140 years of joyful and compassionate service to God.
Lent is a special time in the Church year when we take a moment to prepare for the amazing journey of Jesus’ suffering, death, and Resurrection. It is a wonderful opportunity for us to grow in our faith and become spiritually stronger while spending time with Jesus in the quiet of the desert.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become women…
SSMO Foundation kicks off the 2025 Speaker Series with Love and Logic – Raising Strong Kids Who can Thrive in the Face of Challenges.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become women…
Single, Catholic men and women between the ages of 20 and 40 are invited to join others who are seeking information about their…
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon have been uplifting the lives of others for more than 138 years.
Join them by making an uplifting gift to the Annual Fund.
A family honors their 25 years with the Sisters and Valley Catholic School through a heartwarming and lasting gift.
Happy New Year from the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon Vocations team. We are excited to share about some wonderful events on the horizon.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become women…
Welcome to Take 5 – a Spirit Magazine feature that asks five questions to three people who have a connection to the theme of the magazine. For this edition, let’s get to know three of the new faces on the SSMO campus.
The VCS Gala dinner and auction was a valiant celebration!
Your support at the VCS Gala was evident – raising more than $360,000 with an impressive $180,000 allocated for tuition assistance!
Single, Catholic men and women between the ages of 20 and 40 are invited to join others who are seeking information about their “call.”
As we wrap up the fiscal year, we are reminded of the Sisters’ mission, rooted in their sponsored ministries of education, health care and outreach.
Your generosity cultivates their 137-year legacy. Thank you for your support.
“Oh Lord, You have given me so much. Please give me one more thing: a grateful heart.”
Enjoy this issue of the Vocations Newsletter.
The first days of fall are full of new activities and adventures, but during the harvest season, let us remember the words of our Lord Jesus, “I am the true vine and Father is the gardener.”
Enjoy this edition of the Vocations Newsletter.
Registration is open for the VCS Gala. Secure your spot at our fabulous dinner and auction today!
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become women…
Congratulations to Sister Thanh Pham. On the feast day of the Assumption of Mary, Aug. 15, 2024, Sr. Thanh made her perpetual vows of poverty, chastity and obedience to God forever.
A monthly publication of news, events and topics important to religious life.
Unwavering Dedication – This Jubilee the SSMO celebrates Sr. Diana Jean’s 25 years of compassionate dedication to God.
A monthly publication of news, events and topics important to religious life.
Each year, Valley Catholic High School Seniors don their Valiant Blue robes and walk around the entire campus together. On their journey they…
A monthly publication of news, events and topics important to religious life.
In the tranquil expanse of Oregon, amidst the rolling hills and verdant landscapes, lies the vibrant heart of the Sisters of St. Mary…
Therefore, I tell you, all that you ask for in prayer, believe that you will receive it and it shall be yours. Mark…
We have 50 days during the Easter season to rejoice and give praise that our Savior, Lord and God has risen, Alleluia. As…
Registration is open for the 11th Annual Whole in One Golf Tournament on Wednesday, May 22, at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club. Register today for a wonderful…
Join us on Monday, May 13 at 6:30 p.m. via Google Meet for a special event in honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month.
In anticipation of Pentecost, let us pray that we will experience new growth in our spiritual life.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become women…
Valley Catholic Middle School’s Women in STEM grows in popularity among students and presenters.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become women…
Register today for our first Speaker Series event of 2024. This will be an insightful and engaging discussion about aging well and taking care of ourselves while serving our loved ones.
Join us on a magical journey over the rainbow with “The Wizard of Oz”!
Dec. 5, 1931 – Feb. 1, 2024 Sr. Rose Mary (also known as Sr. Mary Francine) was born in Bend, Ore. on Dec….
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become Women…
Thank you, Sr. Josephine, for the countless years of providing Service with Love.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become Women…
Take a moment to see these holiday wishes and make your tax-deductible donation before 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 31.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become Women…
Join us for one or several Valiant Christmas performances from our students during the next two weeks.
For the final issue of the Core Value Series we take time to Celebrate God and Life. Check out all the ways the Sisters, VCS teachers and students, and Maryville residents and staff Celebrate God and Life.
In 2017, Pope Francis initiated the World Day of the Poor, urging the Church to extend its reach beyond its confines to address poverty in all its contemporary forms. This year, on November 19th, the World Day of the Poor will commence in Rome with Pope Francis leading the Eucharist at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Mark your calendars and join us for a heartwarming Christmas blessing.
Thank you to all who participated in this powerful global movement.
A View from the Dome: November ’23 Letter from the Superior General: November 2023 Dear Friend, November is the month of remembering. We celebrate…
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become Women…
Light-a-Fire helps provide access to a Valley Catholic education for 1 in 4 students. Your gift makes life better for everyone at VCS.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become Women…
This Is The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon Campus As we reflect on the 2022-23 fiscal year, our hearts are filled with…
Early Bird Registration is open Early bird registration is open, take advantage of the extra value and start putting your table together. Gather…
Learn about the tax-savvy benefits of donating stock and giving gifts from a donor-advised fund or IRA.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become Women…
New issue of View from the Dome.
Responding with courage and personal sacrifice to the call of Christ in the Church, our foundresses lived out their desire to become Women…
Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon Celebrate 565 Years of Commitment and Excellence. The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon (SSMO) celebrate the jubilees of…
SSMO Vocation newsletter – A monthly publication of news and topics important to Community and religious life.
Growing in her love for God and his natural world Growing up on a farm in Washington County, picking strawberries and beans in…
Thriving under the structure of God’s guidance Sister Michael Francine celebrates her 25th year as a Sister of St. Mary of Oregon this…
An inseparable and dynamic team of compassionate servants and teachers The Vandecoevering sisters’ childhood was filled with love and learning from their large…
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon have a valiant story. They are women of faith who have consistently met challenges with compassion,…
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon join with Americans of all cultures, histories, languages and colors in acknowledging the evil of slavery….
The joy of serving God through music. Religious life is a path that requires unshakeable faith, deep devotion, and a commitment to serving…
A View from the Dome
A monthly newsletter from the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon.
No matter what area we choose to serve in, we are here to help people. Sister Janet Slingerland celebrates her 70th year of…
SSMO Vocation newsletter – A monthly publication of news and topics important to Community and religious life.
God, what are we doing today? Sister Rita Rose Stohosky’s desire to be a Sister began in the sixth grade. As she went…
Cuando te llaman, es hora de irte. To read this article in English: Jubilee ’23 – Sister Juanita Villarreal La Hermana Mary Juanita…
When you are called, it is time to go. Para leer este artícluo en español: Conoce a la Jubilarista 2023 Sor Juanita Villarreal…
A lifetime of creative service to God. As the eldest member of the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon, Sister Angeline Sohler has…
A View from the Dome
A monthly newsletter from the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon.
SSMO Vocation newsletter – A monthly publication of news and topics important to Community and religious life.
Dear Friend, Easter is upon us, Sunday, April 9 – Alleluia! The earliest and most important feast of the Christian year is Easter….
Sister Catherine Hertel was a Washington County recipient of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution’s Women in American History…
SSMO Vocation newsletter – A monthly publication of news and topics important to Community and religious life.
Ruth Kathryn Etzel, the daughter of Frank and Anna (Minden) Etzel, was born in Stayton, Ore. on March 13, 1932. She grew up…
Father, Your incredible generosity gives us more that we can understand. Please, give us also appreciative hearts, creative minds to care for Your…
SSMO Vocation newsletter – A monthly publication of news and topics important to Community and religious life.
Heaven Father, we ask You to give us hearts of compassion, care and love for one another and for all the creatures You…
SSMO Reflects on Sister Patricia Chappell
Sister Thea Bowman ‘To live until I die.’ During Black History Month, the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon are recognizing the global…
Father, we kneel before You Who created all for the community of all people. Help us to actively understand that as all Creation…
Father, we know we are each created in Your image and likeness. We should not allow people to live and act as though…
Co-Foundress of the first U.S.-based religious order of Black women and formerly enslaved women.
A View from the Dome – February
St. Josephine Bakhita,
whose love and hope transformed the wounds of slavery into forgiveness,
pray for us.
SSMO Vocation newsletter – A monthly publication of news and topics important to Community and religious life.
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon campus is blessed with several types of art. The architecture, paintings, sculptures, photos and literature that…
SSMO Vocation newsletter – A monthly publication of news and topics important to Community and religious life.
Faith is 136 years of joyful service.
Support SSMO today. This is You making a difference.
SSMO Vocation newsletter – A monthly publication of news and topics important to Community and religious life.
SSMO Vocation newsletter – A monthly publication of news and topics important to Community and religious life.
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon encourage everyone to seek the resources that are available before pursuing abortion or suicide.
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon have proudly stood on one another’s shoulders – striving for music excellence – since their earliest days.
Ever wonder what happens on that sequoia-lined campus with the big dome in Beaverton? Check out this glimpse of how this place changes lives.
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon celebrate Jubilee Seventy-five years in the same career. Can you fathom it? Sister Clare Vandecoevering can….
“God was always part of our life as a family. However, it took 27 years before I could say, ‘Yes,’ to religious life.”…
Born in 1930, Sr. Clare Vandecoevering felt an early call to God’s service — in the first grade. She considered herself a regular…
“Everything is a gift from God,” says Sister Julie Doan, as she reflects on the journey that led her to the Sisters of…
Sister Patricia Lulay said she was literally “born into the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon.” She was one of nine in her…
Sister Theresa Ann Bunker celebrates seven decades of service to God this July, during the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon’s Jubilee celebration. …
Sister Mary Ann Hathaway
May 6, 1931 – July 3, 2022
In Memory: Sr. Paula Fox
July 25, 1927 – June 30, 2022
We are saddened by the tragic events at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon and their…
July 9, 1939 – April 21, 2022 Born in Beaverton, Oregon, on July 9, 1939, Kathleen Mae Boyd graduated from St. Cecilia Elementary…
The Sisters and members of their sponsored ministries are praying for peace to prevail in Eastern Europe.
Venerable Henriette Delille – Co-foundress of Sisters of the Holy Family During Black History Month, the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon…
During Black History Month, the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon are recognizing the global contributions of Black men and women. The Sisters…
The latest edition of Spirit magazine is now available.
May Sr. Jean Marie Van Dyke rest in God’s loving embrace.
In the August edition of “A View From the Dome”, learn more about Sister Thanh Pham’s upcoming renewal of her temporary vows on…
In memory of Sister Barbara Jean Laughlin, 1935 – 2021. May Sister Barbara Jean rest in God’s embrace!
Learn more about the Sisters’ sewing project and the upcoming Jubilee in the July edition of “A View From the Dome.”
The Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon (SSMO) annually honor Sisters who are celebrating significant anniversaries of their service and ministry. The SSMO Jubilee was held on the last Sunday in July.
In the latest edition of “A View From The Dome” are reflections on the month of June and news from the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon campus.
In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, in the May edition of “A View From the Dome,” we share the founding of our school…
Sister Adele Marie Altenhofen was recently interviewed by Sarah Buckmaster, host of the UK podcast, “How to be Good.” This thoughtful conversation focused…
Sister Mary Ellen Hanson was born on December 28, 1933, in Valentine, Nebraska. The first child of Nathaniel and Henrietta (Bruggeman) Hanson, she was…
March is the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon (SSMO) Heritage month. This year, the Sisters chose to celebrate their community and their…
In the February edition of “A View From the Dome” Sister Michael Francine shares her reflections on the upcoming season of Lent, and…
Check out our latest edition, “Resilience and Gratitude ”
December 2nd, 2020, we honor the life, ministry, and sacrifice of Maryknoll Sisters Ita Ford and Maura Clarke, Ursuline Sister Dorothy Kazel and lay missioner Jean Donovan.
National Vocations Awarness Week takes place Nov. 1 – Nov. 7, and the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon are offering insight into…
Sharing this post from Sr. Krista’s blog. View the original post here. VOCATION APPRECIATION WEEK November 1-7, 2020 Countdown 25 days to go…I…
The September edition of “A View From the Dome” features a story about the Profession of Vows, which took place in August. The…
SSMO Chapter Meeting Elects New Leaders and Sets Direction for Next Five Years.
“Our first honoree has made more than a career out of her work and vocation. She has made a difference.” That’s how Sister…
Dear Families and Friends, Happy, glorious Easter greetings! What a wonderful time of year! It always feels like a fresh start! We just…
Sister Sharon Kirk, SSMO June 16, 1938 – March 11, 2018 A Vigil Service and Mass of Christian Burial will be held on…
Dear Families and Friends: What is it like to be 132 years old? On our campus, March is known as SSMO Heritage Month. On March…
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