In Memorium: Let Us Pray for Our Deceased Friends

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord!

Sr. Susan – The Life for Jesus and for souls

Maria Adela Wal was born on Friday, April 3rd, 1931, in Jodlowa, Poland. The first of 4 children, she had one brother and 2 sisters. Her brother and youngest sister died as a result of poor health. Maria, on the other hand, was healthy with a strong determination.

She was clever and resourceful with an aptitude for nursing; qualities making her very helpful to her family and surrounding neighbors. Growing up during World War II, she endured poverty and many difficulties. Maria had to end her elementary studies when her father needed her help in the farm field. 

She joined the Missionary Sisters of St. Peter Claver in Krakow, Poland, in 1958. On the day she said goodbye to her parents, they believed they would not see her again. And in fact, shortly after she entered the convent, both of her parents died. 

Sister Susan made her First Profession of Vows on January 6, 1962, in Krakow. Then she took the course in Nursing. After 7 years, she was sent to Toronto, Canada. She stayed in Canada for a short time to learn English. She was then transferred to St. Paul, Minnesota in 1970, to work on the printing of Echo magazine. She knew nothing about how printing presses work, but in obedience, and with help from a printing company named Sexton, she took up the task. On January 6, 1972, Sr. Susan made her Final Profession at the Church of St. Pascal Baylon. Sr. Susan would continue to manage and maintain the printing press until the year 2000. She remained in St. Paul for most of her religious life. She never gave herself enough credit for all that she could do. Her talents were many; besides being good with the printing press and other machinery, she excelled in gardening, was ‘handy’ and could fix many things around the convent and could even resole shoes. Among her religious sisters, she was known for being constantly on the move. Sometimes, when there was a deadline for the Echo to be sent out, Sr. Susan would stay on her feet printing until the work was done. During working hours, she prayed the Ejaculatory Prayer and the 9 Choir of Angels Chaplet, offering all her work for the missions and for the salvation of souls. She could do anything she put her mind to. Her enthusiasm, energy, and zeal for the missions was inspiring to all who met her. 

In 2012, Sr. Susan celebrated her 50th Anniversary of Religious Profession at Transfiguration Catholic Church. Many friends came to share the joy and thank the Lord for the gift of her ‘Yes!’ to the Missionary Church. Though she could no longer work with the printing press, Sr. Susan did whatever was needed in the convent. She was especially skilled in preparing the mailing and shared her fast, efficient methods with those who came to help. 

Gradually, her health declined. Walking became difficult and in 2017, Sister became reliant on a wheelchair. As her heart weakened, she was classified as a hospice patient. In late 2022, needing constant care, Sr. Susan was moved to the memory care unit at the Shores of Lake Phalen facility in Maplewood. The Lord entrusted to her a new mission; to cooperate with Him in the salvation of souls through her prayer and suffering. 

On March 4th, 2024, Sr. Susan came down with a high fever and her body began to shut down. She did not care to eat or drink. She was transported back to the convent on Mar 11, 2024, so that the sisters could be around her, constantly praying with her and for her during her final weeks. She peacefully passed away on Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, after serving the Missionary Church faithfully for 62 years.  

Sr. Susan will be sadly missed by her remaining sister and extended family in Poland. She will also be greatly missed by her sisters in their religious life. She was a great example for each of us in faithfulness, silence, and patient suffering. Of course, we also enjoyed her great sense of humor and how she brought her Polish heritage to life. May she rest now in peace enjoying the rewards of her labor, celebrating Easter with her Heavenly Spouse for all eternity.

St. Paul Community

March 27th, 2024