Sister Brenda Engleman

Hometown: I was born in Loogootee but moved to O'Fallon, IL, when I was 5 yrs old.

Testimonial Quote: I benefit greatly from common prayer -- coming together three times per day. I feel support and love. I do not need to prove myself; I am accepted for who I am. Throughout various challenges, in my life, my community was there for me.

Entrance Date: August 26, 1966

First Profession Date: June 8, 1968

Perpetual Profession Date: August 7, 1971

Position: Director of Oblates

Educational Background: I have a Master’s degree in Elementary Ed from IU, Bloomington. I have a Specialist degree in Counseling Psychology from Spalding University in Louisville, KY. Certification in School Administration from ISU in Terre Haute, IN.

Work Background: I mostly taught social studies and language arts in Middle School and Junior High. I taught science and math a few yrs. Also, I was a K-8 Counselor, a principal in two Catholic schools. Throughout most of my teaching years, I taught music and directed parish choirs. I served as a pastoral associate in three different parishes and as Oblate Relationship Coordinator of the Sisters. Throughout my adult life, I have traveled all over the U.S. I love to entertain with our Monastery Combo. I enjoy being with friends and people, in general. I love children and have fond memories of those that I taught over the years. I also enjoy a good movie. I am never bored.

Present Ministry: Music Ministry; Monastery Service

Other Interests: I love traveling, entertaining with the Monastery Combo, being with friends and people in general. I love children of all ages; I miss working with them. I love a good movie.

What attracted me to this community: I taught 5th grade at St. Theresa's School in Evansville, IN, prior to entering the monastery. I liked working with the sisters. My sister, Sr. Mary Sheila, was a wonderful example to me. (She died in 1982). Sisters seemed to live a simple lifestyle and enjoyed just being together. I recognized them as being spiritually grounded.