Sister Frances Miriam Spalding, OSU, outreach minister to Benton and Marshall County, recently received two awards for her commitment to ministry and her spirit of service.

From Benton’s Stilley House Assisted Living Community, Sister received a Volunteer Award, recognizing her service to the residents of that facility.

On Sunday, September 16, she was recognized at the First United Methodist Church, Benton, in a ceremony "honoring people in the community that our members feel have made a difference."

"Sister Frances," as she is affectionately known in Benton, is in her 61st year as an Ursuline Sister of Mount Saint Joseph. At the age of 83, she is filled with energy, generosity, and enthusiasm for her ministry.

In Marshall County she is a member of the board of directors for the Haven of Hope Crisis Pregnancy Center and of the Advising Board for the Adult Education Literacy Program. She is active in Pro-Life activities, brings Holy Communion to the sick, visits hospitals, nursing homes, shut-ins, and jails, and has periodic prayer meetings in her apartment in Benton.

"Any good work I do is Jesus acting through me," Sister Frances Miriam stated when interviewed last year by the Marshall County Tribune-Courier. "I love being here in Marshall County," she went on. "The people are very friendly and welcoming. I feel blessed also for the many people who have touched my life during these 61 years of service as an Ursuline Sister."

"She has done so much for so many by bringing hope and ecouragement when they are most needed," one acquaintance stated. Speaking then to Sister Frances, she said: "You have given a part of yourself with the kindness you have shown, and you are truly a blessing sent from God."