Catholic Sisters and the American Civil War

May 30, 2011 by Pat McNamara

Continued from Page 1

The Sisters evangelized by their example. In many places, they were the first nuns, let alone Catholics, that some soldiers had ever seen. A Confederate Chaplain recalled one incident where they unwittingly won over non-Catholics. One soldier, raised on anti-Catholicism, didn't realize the Sisters were Catholic:

"Sister, is it true that you belong to the Catholic Church?"

"Yes, sir, it's true. And that's the source of the greatest happiness I have in this life."

"Well, I declare. I'd never have suspected it. I've heard so many things . . . I thought Catholics were the worst people on earth."

"I hope you don't think so now."

"Well, Sister . . . I'll tell you. If you say you're a Catholic, I'll certainly have a better opinion of Catholics from now on."

Having recently celebrated Memorial Day, it's important to remember the women as well as the men who have sacrificed for their country. Through their healing ministry, the Catholic Sisters helped dissolve prejudice, preached by quiet example, and helped make nursing a respectable profession for women from all walks of life. Theirs is an inspiring story that deserves to be remembered and cherished by all Americans.

Page: 2 of 2

5/30/2011 4:00:00 AM

In Ages Past

Civil War

History

Nuns

Christianity

Roman Catholicism

more at patheos

I Thought I’d Be Holier by Now

Ellen Fannon

What Does Tiqvâ Mean For Pete Hegseth & The SOH?

Martin Thomas Johnson

Does Your Spiritual Practice Need a History Lesson?

Tom Rapsas

No Hell? Dialogue on Conditional Immortality

Dave Armstrong

About Pat McNamara

Dr. Pat McNamara is a published historian. He blogs about American Catholic History at McNamara's Blog.

Patheos Logo Patheos Explore the world's faith through different perspectives on religion and spirituality! Patheos has the views of the prevalent religions and spiritualities of the world.

Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In Subscription Support

Subscription Support Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In

Follow Patheos