Sister Evelyn (Claretta) Antoine

 

What first drew you to the Racine Dominican community?

I thought that all of my teachers at Belgium were just the best. I wanted to be one of them. I came from a very Catholic family and our love of God and Mary were very important to us. I remember that in second grade I could recite all the Mother of Perpetual Help prayers without a book. I wanted to dedicate my life to God.

 

What has kept you in the community all these years?

As my prayer life and sense of community developed, I believed in our mission. I felt that this was a good way to live out my life. I wanted to a part of its mission with the support of others. I was so excited with the Vatican II developments and the changes in the church. It seemed to give us a greater purpose.

 

What is one particularly cherished memory of your years in ministry?

As a pastoral associate, I directed the RCIA program and also was an advocate of annulments for the diocese of Green Bay. One woman, unbaptized, wanted to become a Catholic but had to get annulments from her three previous marriages. Through the entire process we became spiritual friends. She now lives in a different state, but we still keep in touch.

 

What is one thing people today should know about the Racine Dominicans?

We are a group of women who are concerned about the poor and marginalized people.  these people aren’t heard, so we try to be a voice for them, an advocate for their needs and rights. We don’t do this alone, but are supported by our community.

 

What do you enjoy doing at this time of your life?

I returned to Siena Center two years ago and am busy. I am getting to know the sisters at Siena Center. I am getting involved in study and action on important issues that need to be addressed in our world today, such as immigration, conservation and protection of our water, etc. A group of us take turns going to Ellsworth Correctional Institute for Women each Saturday to pray, talk about the Sunday Scripture, and give them the opportunity to receive Eucharist.  I also teach English to two students who speak Spanish. Being retired also gives me more time for prayer. This is very important in my life. I love crafts. I embroider pillow cases and tat an edging around them to sell at the card shop. I love music, travel, jigsaw puzzles, and having a good conversation with friends.