Sr. Laverne

While creating one of her dishclothes, Sr. Laverne shared some things about herself …

She was born in the small farming town in Parkston, South Dakota before running water and electricity were common. She holds many fond memories of her childhood years. It was through her grade school teachers, the Sisters of St Francis of Assisi, that her vocation to become a Sister was nurtured and grew.

At age 14, she left South Dakota by train, to finish her high school education and become a Sister of St. Francis.

Sr. Laverne spent her early years ministering at bishops’ houses and at the seminary. In the 1970’s she received a 4-year degree in dietetics. She found it life-giving to enable people to understand how good nutrition helps us to be the healthiest we can be.

Over the years of laboring diligently in ministry, Sr. Laverne enjoyed various leisure activities. Later on in life she wanted a different type of hobby. Our sister, Sister Augustine, taught Sr. Laverne knitting, specifically, knitting dishclothes. She’s been doing it ever since, on and off, for over 40 years. Asked why she doesn’t learn other stitches in order to knit other things, she states:

“I enjoy what I’m doing and I’ve gotten very good at it.”

Now that she’s in her 90’s, it might take her a little longer, but she still finds enjoyment in making these dishclothes.

Sr. Laverne insists on quality work and a quality product. She explains that she only uses 100% cotton yarn because its absorbancy works best in the work of the kitchen. She loves working with varigated colors of yarn, because the pattern of color is always a pleasant surprise.