Our Sisters: Ruth Hoerig '64

At 84 years young, Sister Ruth Hoerig '64, OSF, is the social media content developer for the School Sisters of St. Francis and as co-editor of the order's magazine, Alive. She has been a sister for 66 years, serving as a teacher, principal and guidance director, archdiocesan central office consultant, author and writer.

How were you called to the sisterhood?

As a young girl, I was first called to the sisterhood while watching the movie The Song of Bernadette. I was captivated by Bernadette's deep desire to serve God in spite of rigorous interrogations by Church and the French authorities.

I also was inspired by my teachers, Sister Clarella Werth and Sister Mauritia McName, the strong faith life of my parents and the Maryknoll magazine, which tells stories of Catholic mission work.

What has been one of your favorite moments of ministry in your time as a sister?

Right now! I am having a glorious time honing my writing skills and serving as the social media content developer. Not only am I working with the best people I've ever worked with, but the work itself is truly rewarding and meaningful. Writing articles for Alive gives me the rare opportunity to connect with our sisters in India, Latin America and Europe and learn their unique approach to living our Franciscan charism.

I am responsible for finding 21 quotations each week to post on Twitter and seven quotes for Facebook that capture the community's spirit and appeal to a broad audience. Searching for content allows me to draw from a wide range of spiritual resources that relate to our Franciscan mission of peace, justice and care for creation.

What is your favorite thing about social media?

It has helped me appreciate how technology can be used to spread the Gospel.

Whose social media account do you check often?

I am a great fan of Father James Martin's Twitter account @JamesMartinSJ. It's an efficient and entertaining way to keep up with Catholic circles around the world.

You are a storyteller. Who's one of your favorite storytellers?

I am continually captivated by Morgan Freeman as a storyteller. His strong, deep voice and calm demeanor commands my complete attention and respect. Some of my favorite movies of his are Amistad, The Shawshank Redemption, Driving Miss Daisy and the documentary series The Story of God.

This article originally appeared in the fall 2018 issue of Alverno Magazine.

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