She has enjoyed every ministry as part of 50 years of service as a member of the Sisters of the Divine Savior. Sister Diane Goetzinger, SDS, taught in elementary schools in Wisconsin and Maryland. Later she coordinated programs and activities for retired Sisters at Salvatorian Heights, Milwaukee.

Since 1991, she has been the Homebound Minister for Mother of Good Counsel (MGC) Parish, Milwaukee. She serves on the pastoral team, Social Concerns Committee and the St. Vincent de Paul. In addition, she is involved with the Northwest Interfaith program. She is a daughter of the parish and graduated from MGC in 1953. She is a member of St. Pius X, Wauwatosa.

“I visit older adults and the homebound. These visits help keep our people feeling more connected to MGC. I offer companionship. I love the people and each one is dear to me. I am always amazed at how courageous they are and what they have lived through. They do not complain even when they are facing great challenges,” Sister Diane said.

She brings the Eucharist, visits parishioners in their homes and nursing homes. If they move to an assisted living facility, she continues the visits. “They open their homes and their lives to me. This is a ministry that involves great trust and they know that whatever they share with me is held in confidence. We have good times together and we become friends. I also offer blood pressure testing, run errands, help with shopping and take the folks to doctor and dental appointments as needed.

“Sometimes family members live far away and they will call to make sure that all is going well. They are relieved that they have someone they trust regularly visiting their parent or loved one,” Sister Diane explained.

During the last year, Sister Diane has faced some health challenges and was always anxious to heal so she could return to her friends at MGC.

On June 28, she marked her Golden Jubilee at MGC during an 11 a.m. Mass. Other Salvatorian men and women will be part of this joyous celebration. Sister Diane recalls wanting to be a Sister as a small child. “I have loved every ministry and would do it again. I have been able to have God as the center of my life. As Sisters, we pray, encourage and support one another as we try to make a positive difference in the lives of others.”