Daughters’ 112 Years of Service in Austin Coming to a Close

After 112 years in Austin, Texas, the Daughters of Charity are shifting their ministry elsewhere to spread their service to the poor in places of the greatest need.

Bidding a bittersweet farewell, Daughters serving in the Austin area were a part of a radio broadcast on KUT News 90.5. While “moving on” to other ministries is part of the essence of the Daughters’ service, the relationships and history established in Austin are still difficult to leave.

“People say to us, ‘Yes, we understand that there are fewer sisters and you need to go where there is great need. But we don’t like it. We don’t want you to leave.’ So that’s also very gratifying—that we know we are loved here,” Sister Helen Brewer, vice chairman of the Seton Healthcare Family board, said in the KUT story.

The Daughters founded Seton Infirmary, a major step-up from existing healthcare in the Austin area, at the turn of the 20th century. With a flourishing ministry in place in Austin, the Daughters feel comfortable directing efforts to areas requiring more attention. Six Daughters of Charity currently residing in Austin will be missioned to other services.

A closing mass and reception in Austin is scheduled for July.

Read and listen to the KUT News 90.5 story here.