Hospital Sisters of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis

Sister M. Antona Kettrup

✝ Thursday, September 13th 2018

Into your hands, I commend my spirit; you will redeem me, LORD, God of truth. (Psalm 31:6)

On September 13, 2018, Jesus the good shepherd, called our dear Ssiter M. Antona née Josefa Kettrup, Hospital Sister of the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, home to His heavenly Father's House.

Sister M. Antona was born on January 12, 1925 in Legden, district Steinfurt. She entered our Congregation on January 25, 1952 and made her first profession of vows on October 28, 1954.

In 1955, Sister M. Antona completed her nursing exam. From 1955 to 1960 she served as a trained administrative assistant in the Provincial Administration, among other services as a secretary. After professing her final vows in 1960, Sister M. Antona began her commitment in the Generalate office where she worked until the year 2000. From 1970 to 1988 she was the General Secretary. She was very interested and engaged in internationality and is remembered as being a very kind, helpful, selfless and industrious Sister.

Sister M. Antona accompanied the General Superior and that way she got to know the Sisters in all Provinces. Among other things she experienced the beginnings of our mission in India.  From the personal prayer and the sacred scriptures she drew strength for her service.

For almost six decades, Sister M. Antona lived in the Motherhouse Convent and she gladly committed herself to the community. From 2000 - 2004, she assumed the travel arrangements and the paperwork in the office of the Motherhouse Superior.

Always important to her were the Adoration hours in the Chapel. The prayer for peace has always been her special concern. Even as a senior Senior in St. Matthew group, she provided little services for the Sisters.

In spring 2012, Sister M. Antona changed to St. Heriburg House, Münster. Bravely and patiently, she bore the complaints of her declining health. Sister M. Antona was grateful for the loving care given to her. On September 13, 2018 she returned her earthly life into the protective hands of God. We trust that Sister M. Antona is now gazing on Jesus Christ, the light of life!  He will receive her in His glory and bring her to perfection in His love. With gratitude, we take our farewell from Sister M. Antona and ask for a remembrance in prayer for her.