Biography
In 1881, Chicago welcomed a young woman, Josephine Dudzik, and her family who had emigrated from Poland. They settled in the vicinity of the well-known St. Stanislaus Kostka Church on the city's northwest side.
A generous, compassionate, and devout woman, Josephine was moved by the condition of the aged, poor, abandoned, and orphaned whom she encountered in her neighborhood. She came to their aid spiritually, physically, and emotionally, even sheltering many in her own family home. Chicago's severe financial crisis of 1893 resulted in greater economic stress and unemployment. Josephine, upon the advice of her pastor, formed a religious community to come to the aid of the elderly and those in need. Thus, on December 8, 1894 -- the Feast of the Immaculate Conception -- the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago was born, and Josephine Dudzik was called Sister Mary Theresa. Sister Mary Theresa received the honorary title 'Mother' in 1940, twenty-two years after her death.
Mother Mary Theresa died in Chicago on September 20, 1918. Because of the heroic virtues evident in her life, she is now a candidate for sainthood. Her remains, brought to the Motherhouse of the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago in Lemont from St. Adalbert Cemetery in 1972, were sealed in a granite sarcophagus in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Chapel. The cause for her beatification and canonization is actively being pursued. We pray that Mother Mary Theresa Dudzik will be recognized a saint in the Catholic Church and serve as a model for all Christians.
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The casket of the Venerable Servant of God was moved in 2003 when the new Motherhouse was constructed. Special services were held and many came to pray at her casket. |
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Guild members took an active part in the services that were held. |
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This was a once in a lifetime experience for those devoted to Mother Mary Theresa Dudzik |
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This was an occasion of solemnity and joy for the Sisters of the congregation that she founded. |
The granite sarcophagus in the Sacred Heart Chapel, Our Lady of Victory Convent.