A native of Brooklyn, NY, Sister Kathleen Higgins, OSB, grew up in Mishawka, IN. Following high school, she enlisted in the United States Army where she received medical training as a 91C practical nurse. She was stationed at Fort Sam Houston’s main hospital in San Antonio. In addition to her medical responsibilities, Sister Kathleen pitched softball for the 5th Army Women’s Softball Team.
Sister Kathleen earned her Master’s Degree in theological studies from the Oblate School of Theology and completed a three-year Spiritual Directors’ Formation Program through the Archdiocese of San Antonio. She holds an Associate Degree in Advertising and Commercial Art from San Antonio Community College and she studied History at the University of Texas at San Antonio.
In 1974, Sister entered Religious Life with the Congregation of Benedictine Sisters. She made her final vows in August 1982 and has taught Religion, Art, and Social Studies in secondary and elementary schools. She also served with the Boerne EMS during the 1970s. Sister Kathleen has served many roles within her community including Co-Director of the Omega Retreat Center in Boerne, Vocation Director, Monastery Coordinator, member of the Building and Land committee, and community Archivist.
She remembers her mission work in the Yucatan, which truly taught her the meaning of the words “Give us this day our daily bread,” in the Lord’s Prayer. She says her work there was “very rewarding,” and “It gave me a deeper appreciation of what I had.” Sister enjoys reading and outdoor activities including gardening, camping, and fishing.