Sister Barbara Catherine Schmitz

Hometown: Patoka, Indiana

Testimonial Quote: I love the Benedictine values of community, hospitality, and balance of prayer.

Entrance Date: September 7, 1953

First Profession Date: June 13, 1955

Position: Mission Advancement

Educational Background:
• B.S. Degree in Elementary Education – St. Benedict’s College 1967
• Master’s Degree in Special Education – Cardinal Stritch University, Milwaukee 1973
• Institute in SPRED (Special Religious Education) – Chicago 1972
• Montessori Internship – Chicago 1973
• Institute in Spiritual Leadership – Chicago 1984
• Master’s Degree in Pastoral Studies – Loyola University, Chicago 1986
• Spiritual Direction Internship – Diocese of Louisville 1997
• Sabbatical – Studied Silva Method - California 2006

Work Background:
• Elementary Teacher – Huntingburg 1955-1959
• Elementary Teacher – Haubstadt 1959 – 1964
• Special Education Teacher – Marian Day School – 1965 – 1970
• SPRED (Special Religious Education) – Diocese of Evansville 1971 – 1985
• St. Meinrad School of Theology - Associate Academic Dean & Director of Cont. Ed 1985-1997
• Founding Member – AGPIM (Association of Graduate Programs in Ministry) 1986
• Director of Kordes Retreat Center 1997-2006
• Founding Member of Association of Benedictine Retreat Centers 2002
• Family Scholar House 2013 – 2018

Present Ministry: Women of the Rule, Mission Advancement; Liturgical Environment; Monastery Service

Other Interests: Traveling, reading, enjoying nature, drawing & painting, connecting, and spending time with friends.

What attracted me to this community: The ministry and life of the Sisters.