Sister Mary Hauber Honored at Franciscan Federation

Sister Mary Hauber, OSF, was named a 2015 Franciscan Banquet Honoree at the annual Franciscan Federation Conference held June 19-22 in Indianapolis. Honorees are Franciscan brothers and sisters within the Church who:

• Embody Francis’ and Clare’s witness to creative fidelity.
• Nurture that ecclesial communion of love to which Jesus invites us.
• Embrace the Church with all its ambiguities.
• Energize and give hope to the doubtful and the discouraged.

Sister Mary was recognized for her ministry in music. She was a classroom music teacher and gave private piano lessons to both children and adults. After receiving a ministry grant from the community, she gave piano lessons to those who couldn’t usually afford them. “Her relationship with her students went far beyond the 30 minute piano lesson,” said her nomination essay, which was submitted by the Sisters of St Francis’ Leadership Team. “Students supported each other in Sister Mary’s peaceful studio and grew in confidence in all areas of their lives.”

“Music is a gift for a lifetime—in my long career as a piano instructor, I am grateful for being able to hand that gift on to students of all ages, of all nationalities, of all personalities, of all religions and of all economic levels,” said Sister Mary of the honor.  “All 52 years of my ministry have been a thrilling adventure of making music for a lifetime. It feels wonderful.”

From L to R: Sisters Nancy Miller, Mary Hauber, Carol Ann Bertie, and Lois Erpelding at the Franciscan Federation Conference in Indianapolis.