Benedictine Sisters of Chicago 

Sr. Rita Nowak, O.S.B. died on August 27, 2026 at St. Joseph Court, the infirmary of St. Scholastica Monastery. She was a vowed member of the Benedictine Sisters of Chicago for seventy-three years and is survived by her Benedictine sisters, seven nieces and nephews, and many great nieces and nephews. Born in Chicago on October 5, 1933, Rita was the second of Joseph and Anna Gross Nowak’s three daughters. Mr. Nowak was a wholesale florist, and the experience of countless hours

We signed on to this declaration, which was delivered to Congress on June 25, 2026. Our branch of the Benedictine Sisters arrived in the U.S. from Germany in 1852 "to serve where there is need". Leadership Conference of Women Religious Declaration of Commitment In preparation for the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Leadership Conference of Wo men Religious has entered a period of reflection on nearly 300 years of our presence, service, and leadership

Above is the icon and story of St. Scholastica, this version created in 2012 by Paula Howard, OSB © Mount St. Scholastica, Atchison, Kansas St. Scholastica and her twin, St. Benedict, grew up in Italy. She founded a monastery for women near her brother's monastery at Monte Cassino. This icon shows St. Scholastica both inward in thoughtful contemplation and outward in love and concern. The dove represents her soul reaching toward heaven in simplicity of heart and love of praye