As the 70th anniversary of the sisters’ arrival in Wisconsin is celebrated this year, it is important to share the history and culture of the Benedictine Women of Madison. What brought the sisters to this area? What influences shaped the mission, vision and values? Who played key roles in what eventually became Holy Wisdom Monastery?
Highlights* of the growth, change and stability of the Benedictine Women of Madison will be reviewed in the next seven weeks culminating with the 70th Anniversary Celebration on July 9, 2023.
*These highlights only reflect the history of the sisters after their move to Madison in 1953.
In this issue, the focus is on the beginning – the 1950s.
1953
- In December of 1952, Bishop William P. O’Connor of the Diocese of Madison invited the Sisters of St. Benedict of Sioux City Iowa to establish a high school for girls. In response to that invitation, Mother Monica Black and Sisters Annunciata Byrne and Martha Glaser, arrived in Madison on March 11, 1953. Temporary housing was located near St. Bernard’s parish.
- The Articles of Incorporation for the Sisters of St. Benedict were recorded on July 10th.
- After a lengthy search, the sisters purchased 43 acres of land adjacent to Bishop O’Connor’s residence from Dr. Grover Kennedy and his brother, Thomas.
- Sister Joanne Kollasch recalls, “The site was just some hilly pastureland with two old oak trees at the entrance. We walked to the top of the hill and saw Lake Mendota just across the road. On the other side of the lake was the city of Madison, home of the state capital and the University of Wisconsin. The view was panoramic. The search for property was over!”
1954
- Groundbreaking ceremonies for the new high school and priory were held on August 9th. Present were Mother Monica Black, Sisters Edward Seidler, Clare Kelly, Gerard Honings, Alphonsa Riley and Bishop O’Connor and Reverend Joseph J. Cox. The building would serve as both the high school and Motherhouse until a second building was constructed.
1955
- The sisters moved into the second story of the new building in April. The new priory was dedicated by Bishop O’Connor on August 15th.
- Retreats for lay women began and the sisters began teaching a catechism class to approximately 130 students in St. Mary of the Lake Church.
1959
- Fourteen girls began their high school education when the Academy of St. Benedict opened on September 9th. The school served both day and resident students and the curriculum was designed to prepare students for college. Religious training consisted of daily religion classes, an annual retreat and daily Mass and Compline for resident students.
What’s coming up?
Next, the focus is on the 1960s, a time of great change and upheaval in the United States. Through personal and communal experiences in the 1960s, the Sisters of St. Benedict also felt drawn to change and transformation.
We hope you can join us for the 70th Anniversary Celebration on July 9, 2023.
