Sister Barbara Lynn Schmitz

Prioress from 2013-2019

Sister Barbara Lynn Schmitz is a dedicated Benedictine Sister of the Monastery of the Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand, Indiana. Her journey to religious life was shaped by both personal calling and divine providence.

Before entering the monastery, Sister Barbara Lynn worked as a comptroller for an interior design firm, leading a successful professional life yet sensing that something was missing. That sense of longing led her to an encounter with the Benedictine sisters at Madonna Day School, who awakened in her the possibility of a religious vocation. When she shared this decision with her parents, Rodney and Dorothy Schmitz of Memphis, Tennessee, they recalled a promise they had made to God years earlier. Born two months premature, her survival had been uncertain, and in their desperation, her parents had prayed, entrusting her life to the Lord.

At the age of 32, Sister Barbara Lynn entered the Benedictine community, already holding a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Recognizing her gifts, the community sent her to the University of Notre Dame, where she earned a Master’s in Business Administration. She was such an outstanding student that Notre Dame business officials offered her a job, but her commitment to religious life led her back to the monastery, where she placed her talents at the service of her community.

Throughout her years in monastic life, Sister Barbara Lynn has held a variety of leadership roles. She first served as the Academy business administrator before transitioning to pastoral ministry at St. Mary’s in Evansville. Her financial expertise and leadership skills then brought her back to the monastery as director of Mission Advancement. In 2013, the sisters recognized her capabilities and elected her prioress, a role she faithfully served for two terms until 2019. During her tenure, she guided the community in exploring innovative ways to use their buildings and land, ensuring the monastery’s future sustainability.

Following her time as prioress, Sister Barbara Lynn took on the role of Community Treasurer and currently serves as Director of Operations. In this position, she continues to dedicate her energy and expertise to the well-being and growth of her monastic community.

With a deep commitment to the Benedictine way of life, Sister Barbara Lynn Schmitz remains a guiding force, combining faith, leadership, and business acumen in service to God and her sisters.