Sister Patricia Louise Langan, MSBT

Sister Pat as a novice in 1974

SOAR! recently spoke with Sister Pat Louise Langan, a member of the Missionary Sisters of the Most Blessed Trinity. She shares her story below.   

1) What attracted you to become a religious Sister? (And when did you enter?)

I grew up in an Army family; six grade schools, three high schools and grades 8 through 10 in Japan. My dad was Catholic and my mom converted to the Catholic Church when I was in high school.

I have a strong memory of my Catholic School days of being called to serve God.

In my wisdom I discerned, but not a nun! I thought I’d be unhappy living in the confinement of three building, school, convent and Church for all of my life. I didn’t believe that God wanted me to be unhappy.

While in Catholic School, I subscribed to “Treasure Chest,” a Catholic comic book.

I remember a story of a group of women serving, children and families in a rural coal mining areas. Decades later I realized that story was about the Missionary Servants of the Blessed Trinity.

After graduating Catholic University with a Teaching Degree and moving back south to Mobile, AL. to teach and continue my education.

I met the Missionary Servants of the Blessed Trinity at Catholic Social Services in Mobile where I served as a volunteer. I felt this was where God wanted me to serve so in 1972 at 33 years, I happily entered the community on September 10, 1972.

2) As you look at your years of faithful service, what has been your greatest joy? your greatest challenge

My 50 years in ministry were varied; Religious Education Parish and Diocesan level ministry and Vocation Ministry. My last ministry was at our Blessed Trinity Shrine Retreat House (BTSR) in rural Alabama, where the Community was founded 100 years ago. It was mission of many challenges and many more blessings! Working in the rural south in an area predominately protestant was a challenge yet there was steps forward in ecumenical growth. The other challenge was finances, always a struggle in Retreat Ministry.

3) Can you share a story or some insight about a favorite time in ministry?

At BTSR the beauty of nature and the presence of God touched thousands of lives. So many people said God’s peace was so palpable. They were right!

4) Do you have a word of wisdom you’d like to share with people today?

May you take the time to be with the Lord. Be open to His presence in others. Pray for peace and justice and share small acts of kindness.