Sinsinawa
Spectrum
A Congregation News Magazine
Congregation Appointee
Martha Mary Rohde, OP
by Eileen Dushek_Manthe
Sr. Martha Mary Rohde
Martha Mary Rohde, OP, has been appointed Siena Prioress and began her position Sept. 1. This change in ministry comes after 41 years in education, including the last 10 years at St. Michael in Fernandina Beach, FL. In preparation for her new position, Martha Mary attended the Elder Religious and Diocesan Priests Workshop held in Dallas, PA, during June. “It offered great insights into ministry with the elders of our Congregation as well as insights into my own aging,” Martha Mary said. The workshop allowed her to network with participants from other congregations. Before her official start, Martha Mary also spent time with Helen Hurley, OP, and the Siena staff in what she lightheartedly called “prioress school.”
Martha Mary brings a love of the Sisters and administrative experience to her work as Siena Prioress. She sees the work she did with parishes, parents, and children as relatable pastoral experience. People have told her she is compassionate, easy to be with, and a clear thinker. Martha Mary recognizes that she is not afraid to ask questions and sees that as a positive quality when beginning a new position. She approaches things from the heart, “loving first.”
Martha Mary feels privileged to have been asked to take this ministry. She hopes “that which people hope that I can do, I can fulfill those wishes.” Martha Mary plans to carry on what has been so lovingly given by Helen, the family care givers, and the nursing staff. “They meet every morning. They are wonderful!” she said. Always an educator, she anticipates this ministry will be one where she will continue to learn.