Sr. Pat Schmidt Inspires Long Island Community with Spiritual Legacy and Friendship

Sr. Pat Schmidt, DW, 93, shared the history of the Daughters of Wisdom in the United States and her journey as one of the first five to enter the novitiate in Litchfield, CT, in 1951. She spoke with those deeply rooted in the spiritual tradition of St. Louis de Montfort. For many in attendance, it was the first introduction to the Daughters of Wisdom for members of Long Island’s Association of Mary, Queen of All Hearts and volunteers from St. Patrick’s Church in Bay Shore, NY.

Sr. Pat shared her seasoned spiritual philosophy in what was described as a very moving and meaningful talk, including practices that have guided her in her own spiritual direction. These included showing up, letting go, deep listening, saying your piece, and acknowledging that each person has a unique spiritual path and is beloved by God.

Hosted by Montfort Missionaries’ Fr. Tom Poth, SMM, and coordinated by Ellen Cremer, National Enrollment Coordinator for Mary Queen of Our Hearts, the meeting was held in the Montfort Missionaries' new headquarters in Islip. With hopes of more collaboration to come, Sr. Pat shared a special gift from the Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Convent, who, through their prayer ministry, have reached out to the community and invited them to make or send their prayer requests. As new friendships blossomed, guests gathered around a welcoming table to enjoy a generous luncheon that brought the gathering to a warm and gracious close.