Dedicated to Sister Therese Marie Stafford

Sister Therese Marie was president of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Concordia, Kansas from 1965-1969. She was born and raised in Chapman, Kansas. Sister Therese Marie was known and loved by all for her genuine compassion and wisdom.

At one point, in a community assembly, she stated: "I don't know how much time is left in my hour glass but I want to serve you as well as I can for as long as I can." She died of cancer in September of 1969, at the age of 59, still serving her community as leader . Her motto was "Nothing for me, everything for God and my neighbor."

In one of her talks of the assembly of Sisters she said, "It takes a real woman to be tactful and considerate as a way of life. A mature woman is confident and secure in herself and fully recognizes and accepts the innate dignity of each person. She relates thus helpfully and pleasingly to all with whom she comes in contact." At another time she states: "Our mission is to give to God's people an example of real Christian community. Many times other people need lifts, and words of encouragement are like vitamins that give others courage again and make life worth living for them."

Dedication by Sister Betty Suther