Jubilarian - 2022 Sister Gabrielle Smits

Sister Gabrielle Marie, baptized Mary Ann, was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin. She entered the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet in 1961 and was received into the novitiate in 1962. She received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Fontbonne College in 1966 and a master’s degree in religious education from Mundelein College in 1978.

Sister Gabrielle began her service teaching third and fourth grade in Indianapolis. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Sister Gabrielle taught at numerous St. Louis schools, including St. Louis Cathedral School, St. Gregory School and St. Matthew School. She then served as the religious education coordinator for Northside Community Center.

In the 1980s, she served her CSJ community as formation team member and director of applicants and associates.

In 1986 she moved to Kansas City, Missouri, and worked in pastoral care at St. Francis Xavier until 1994. She then served the next 19 years as staff chaplain at St. Joseph Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

In 2015, she moved to Journey House in Kansas City, serving as chaplain and supporting women reentering the community after prison.

She enjoys walking and viewing God’s nature. She also enjoys reading and playing cards when she can.

Click here to make a donation in honor of Sister Gabrielle.