Franciscan Sister Mary Ann Spanjers shares about Sister Carla Riach being recognized for the Alive in the Savior Award in Tucson, AZ.
The Lord will work out his plans for my life” Sister Carla Riach shared this at the Alive in the Savior Award where she was honored by The Diocese of Tucson Jordan Ministry, sponsored by the Salvatorian Congregation, for her years of ministry with the Tohono O’ odham people! It was a joy filled afternoon, joining the Franciscan Sisters from San Xavier were the Sisters from Casa Grande and Sierra Vista. Sister Natalie wrote a special tribute for the ceremony; in part, “Sister Carla is a living example of what the Year of Mercy proclaims. One needs only read the Scriptures especially the Gospel of Matthew 25,to know who Sister Carla is and what she does. Sister Carla is a blessing to everyone who meets her.”
An Elder, Joseph Enos, a long time friend of Sister Carla, spoke and sang a special blessing song of the light of God, of hope! Fr . Jeff Wocken, SDS, director of Jordan Ministry spoke of Sister Carla ‘s presence and ministry, echoing Sister Natalie’s message, “Sister Carla is a person of mercy and kindness, this is a deep abiding love of giving the gift of who we are to one another.”
Among the many friends, parishioners and Native People who attended were all of the Franciscan Friars serving at San Xavier, Father Robert Rodriguez, pastor of St Rose of Lima in Safford, AZ and many of the Tohono O’odham Elders!
Sister Carla closed her remarks saying, “God, my Sisters, and the People– you have formed me and continue to form me!” Click here for more pictures.