She brings healing when she listens
Sister Mildred Leonards, CDP, has lived and ministered in Louisiana for the several decades. Those who know her unanimously describe her as a woman of Providence, a woman of presence, a woman of love. Archbishop Harry Flynn who served with her in the Diocese of Lafayette describes her as a healing presence that even now is sacramental. He says, “She brings healing when she listens, helps those who are confused and is non-judgmental and possesses Christ-like compassion. Her profound respect for others is admirable. Sister Mildred causes me to pay more attention to Providence. I have learned about it through her beautiful notes and cards. I hope her health remains strong for many more years to come.”
This zest for life is rooted in her gratitude and appreciation to her Provident God for granting her good health and energy. Sister Mildred loves her life because it provides her a daily opportunity to carry out Jesus’ mission to heal, comfort and serve. Mary Bergeron, says Sister Mildred “has the heart of a servant and a zeal for helping others.” Another friend, Dolores Ancona, says Sister Mildred is a “walking testimony to Divine Providence. Her joy, health, vibrant personality attracts people to her.” Ann Wallace, her friend and Hospice Care Volunteer Coordinator, says “She is the fruits of the Spirit! She is ALL GOOD.”
Through personal contact at daily Mass, or during the coffee discussions that follow, or through her volunteer work in hospitals and hospice care, people experience her wisdom, her humble Christ-like radiance and words of comfort, joy and guidance. In the time of need or loss she is usually one of the first to respond. In times of joy and milestone, she is one of the first to praise through presence or one of her famous hand-painted cards.
Always one to not be idle, during her Pre-Vatican II years as a young nun and elementary teacher, Sister Mildred used blank bulletin boards to test her talent with art. This evolved into her now famous and beautiful hand-painted cards. These cards also serve as lessons in PROVIDENCE to the many who receive them. “ …the art comes straight from her heart and her faith, and each card is so personal and beautiful. … these cards represent one of her most innate gifts … she has a way of making people feel very loved, very appreciated, and very special.” (Mary Bergeron)
Sister Mildred Leonards ministers in many ways. “May her contagious, generous, caring, loving heart and her deep, abiding love of God and His people stay strong and healthy for years to come!” (Mary Bergeron)