By Ginny Brough, Bishop O’Connell, September 22, 2017
After 60 years of living on campus the IHM sisters are moving a block and a half away to make room for new chapel and other school renovations.
Since Bishop O’Connell opened its doors in 1957 the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM) Sisters have been living and teaching on campus. Although in recent years the number of nuns living at O’Connell has declined, the value they add to school has not gone anywhere.
The IHM sisters are responsible for the development of the school over the years as well as the development of the students who attend it. Class of ‘61 grad and current theology teacher at O’Connell Mr. Dwyer says that “The servant sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary mean everything to the school. They are the foundation of faith here at O’Connell and I and indebted and thankful to them.”
However, with all the new renovations to be done on the school, it was apparent that the convent needed to be downsized. The DJO administration found the best solution to be purchasing a house close to campus. This way the sisters can be comfortable and the school has room for a proper chapel.
Sister Regina, who is starting her sixth year at O’Connell as an Algebra 2/ Trig teacher, said that she and her fellow Sisters are “excited to be part of a neighborhood,” and to establish “a new history on Rochester Street.” She explained how the Sisters are getting the opportunity to “put their own fingerprints” on their new convent and to be a part of the change.
Overall the IHM Sisters are looking forward to the renovations to come and the good it will do for the school. The Sisters hope to move into their new house before Christmas.
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