Sister Judine Hilbing, OP

    St. Martin de Porres Convent in South Chicago is home to several Sisters responding to the call of ministry in the inner city of Chicago. The neighborhood is comprised primarily of blacks and Latinos, many of whom struggle financially and suffer a variety of hardships.

    The ministries of education, pastoral counseling, and justice and peace promotion take the Sisters in different directions each morning. They return to the convent at the end of the day to offer mutual support and to refresh their spirits. Woven into the pattern of the day is an uncluttered space of time in which the sisters come together for a common meal and prayer. A typical conversation begins with sharing the events of the day, but normally turns to current events and issues of global concern. These conversations become central to shared reflection on the Gospel and frequently lead the sisters to engage in social action.

    The sisters enjoy leisure activities such as reading, walking, sailing, and art, both individually and as a group. Special group outings are arranged on Lake Michigan and at the many museums, theatres, parks, and restaurants that abound in Chicago.

    The vowed life calls for simplicity of living, and the sisters of St. Martin Convent respond to that call by simply accepting that which is and that which is not. Because they live in a neighborhood where poverty, addictions, homelessness, and gang activity are prevalent, they experience a certain lack of security and a dearth of aesthetic beauty. At the same time, the Sisters enjoy the comfort of a spacious convent that allows them to offer Dominican hospitality to travelers and to open their home for ministerial events. Visitors are always welcome to share a meal, join in community prayer, or enjoy overnight accommodations.