Featured Ministry
Sister Peggy Jackelen
Sister Peggy Jackelen has called Merrill, WI, home for many years. Growing up in the area she was taught at an early age by her parents to appreciate the beauty of the earth and to care for the earth and its resources. "I believe that the earth and all its resources are a precious gift that we treasure and must preserve," Sister Peggy said. She is passionate in this area and works whenever possible to help educate and foster programs that will make a difference to future generations.
The Franciscan way of life drew Sister Peggy to the Holy Cross Sisters in 1962. While attending Our Lady of the Holy Cross High School she became aware of their charism and felt at home
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Sister Peggy holds a bachelor's degree from Dominican College in Racine, WI. As a Holy Cross Sister she has had experience in education, administration, and long-range planning. She has served on the corporate boards of three Midwest hospitals, and has been the treasurer of the Religious Formation Conference of Wisconsin and secretary of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious of Wisconsin. Sister Peggy was also the initial chairperson of the Community Food Pantry in Merrill and served in that capacity for 15 more than years.
Since 1990, she has served as Administrator at Bell Tower Residence in Merrill, WI. Bell Tower Residence is an assisted living center for the elderly and is sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Holy Cross.
"As the administrator of Bell Tower Residence I am very committed to serving our residents, providing them quality of life in this part of their life's journey and keeping their care affordable. It is my hope that a beautiful and peaceful campus, as well as pleasant surroundings within, will help make their days more relaxing and enjoyable. Life at Bell Tower is not extravagant, but hopefully it is comfortable for our residents," said Sister Peggy.
The peace prayer of St. Francis has been an inspiration and guide for Sister Peggy over the years. "I try to understand others and where they are coming from, rather than seeking to be understood by them." She said that it amazes her that when she tries to walk in the shoes of another, she is stretched to a deeper understanding of that individual, and a greater acceptance.
In her free time, Sister Peggy enjoys cooking and being with friends, listening to music or attending concerts, reading, and being out in nature, sometimes just sitting in the backyard and listening to the birds. Sister Peggy will observe her 44th year as a Holy Cross Sister in August.
