In Loving Memory of Sister Mary Cecile
"...
so that in all things God may be glorified."
Rule of Saint Benedict
Sr. Mary Cecile Deken, O.S.B. entered eternity on February 1, 2009 at the age
of 81 after 62 years of Monastic Profession
“We are called to holiness in every vocation, and each vocation is holy
and good. But I want people to know that religious life can bring great
happiness and great fulfillment, and marvelous opportunities for personal
growth. It’s a way of life that can give you all of that . . IF that is what
God is calling you to. We must pray for God’s guidance.”
Sr. Mary Cecile
Sr. Mary Cecile Deken, 81 (formerly Dorothy Ann) died Sunday, February 1,
2009, from injuries sustained in a fall. She was born in Evansville,
Indiana to Fred and Mary (Kirchoff) Deken. She entered Monastery Immaculate
Conception, Ferdinand, Indiana, in 1945. She transferred to Our Lady of
Grace Monastery, Beech Grove, Indiana and became a founding member. Sr.
Mary Cecile received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Music from St.
Benedict College, a Masters Degree in English from St. Louis University and
a Masters in Religious Education from St. Meinrad School of Theology. Most
recently, she received her certificate in Spiritual Direction from the
Benedict Inn Retreat & Conference Center. Sr. Mary Cecile was active in
ministry for 61 years. She began her career as a music teacher at St.
Ferdinand School, Ferdinand, Indiana. She continued as a teacher at Christ
the King, Indianapolis; Sacred Heart, Vincennes; St. Mary, Washington; St.
Francis Xavier, Poseyville; St. Mary, Floyds Knobs; Chatard High School,
Indianapolis; and Our Lady of Grace Academy, Beech Grove. Sr. Mary Cecile’s
career changed in 1977 when she began her work as a Pastoral Associate and
Director of Religious Education in several parishes in the Archdiocese of
Indianapolis. Those assignments included, St. Maurice, Napoleon; St. Mary,
Milhausen; and St. Lawrence, Lawrenceburg where she had ministered since
1981. Sr. Mary Cecile also served her religious community as sub-prioress
from 1967-1977. Sr. Mary Cecile was preceded in death by her parents, infant
sister, Beatrice Deken and brother Herman Deken. Her sister-in-law Pat
Deken, several nieces and nephews, her community from Lawrenceburg and her
religious community survive her. Services will begin on Wednesday, February
4th with the reception of the body at 1:30 PM. Visitation will be from 2:00
PM until 8:00 PM on Wednesday with a wake service at 7:00 PM. Mass of
Christian burial will be on Thursday, February 5th at 4:00 PM with viewing
from 1:00 PM until the funeral. All services will take place in the
monastery chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to the Retired Sister’s
Fund, c/o Our Lady of Grace Monastery, 1402 Southern Avenue, Beech Grove,
Indiana 46107. Little & Sons Funeral Home, Beech Grove, entrusted with
arrangements.
Our Saint
Sr. Mary Cecile was the epitome Of all God intended us to be. Ever
humble and willing to serve She gave of her life without reserve. RCIA,
hospital visits, organist, CRHP, Faith Formation, Yet never too busy to stop
and listen. When life shattered once joyous hearts She gave comfort and
helped them make a new start. She did not shun work that had to be done,
Although it was not in her job description, But joyously performed the
most menial task As if the Lord Himself had lovingly asked. It was always
inspiring to hear the pleasure She got from working our Festival’s Hidden
Treasure. When spending time with this beloved nun You had the feeling you
were the only one. We have our very own saint now, Mary Cecile, TO BE OUR
MODEL And help us face life’s challenges, imagined or real.
Hilda Buck 3/2/09
Evening found little Thomas sad and jaded. His faith in what adults
told him had faded. His best friend said, “You’re not very bright If you
believe in a fairy tale or sprite.” What was said about the Easter Bunny &
Santa Claus Shook his tiny world and made him stop and pause. So, to his
father he went to get answers clear To those childhood beliefs he held so
dear. “In church, Father talks about saints with such zeal. Tell me, Dad,
do they exist? Are saints real?” The father saw his son was saddened,
almost ready to cry So he thought long and hard before he made his reply.
“Son, saints don’t wear halos; they don’t sprout wings. They’re ordinary
people doing ordinary things. But they do ordinary things in an
extraordinary way. They try to be like Jesus each and every day.” He
paused and realized his explanation had not succeeded And knew a different
approach was needed. “Son, you ask do saints exist; are they real. Sit
down, boy. Let me tell you about Sister Mary Cecile.”
By Larry Weber
