Each Lent, Christians are invited to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice and the promise of new life his Resurrection brings. It is a season of prayer, giving, and renewal—a reminder that true discipleship means offering one’s life in loving service. Among the women religious who have given their lives to God and His people is Sister Virginia Honish, SDS, whose life of faith and leadership continues to inspire in southeastern Wisconsin and beyond.
In 1955, after graduating from Divine Savior High School in Milwaukee, Sister Virginia entered the Sisters of the Divine Savior, responding with courage to God’s invitation. A year later, she received the religious name Francis de Sales and began formation for a life of ministry—ready to serve wherever she was sent.
Her first mission came in 1957 at St. Therese Parish School in Schofield, Wisconsin, where she taught 57 lively second graders. There, she discovered that teaching was more than presenting lessons—it was nurturing hearts and instilling confidence grounded in God’s love. Many of her former students still recall her kindness and steady presence.
Recognizing her gifts, her community encouraged her to continue her education. She earned a degree from Alverno College and a master’s in school administration from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, equipping her to unite faith and learning in Catholic education. For 11 years, she served as principal of St. Pius X Grade School, where faith shaped daily life and every student was known by name. Colleagues remember her as a leader who worked hard, listened well, and kept Christ at the center of every decision.
Her leadership also guided the Salvatorian community itself. As a provincial councilor and later Provincial Leader of the Sisters of the Divine Savior in the United States, Sister Virginia helped her Sisters navigate changing times while remaining faithful to their mission of making the goodness and kindness of Jesus known. Her calm, wise approach inspired confidence and unity.
In 1991, Divine Savior Holy Angels High School (DSHA) entered a critical time of growth. Once again, Sister Virginia was called to leadership as the school’s principal. She believed Catholic education should form the whole person, strengthening both intellect and faith. Under her guidance, DSHA expanded academic opportunities, deepened its Catholic identity, and encouraged students to become compassionate, faith-filled leaders. Generations of young women have carried her influence into their own vocations and professions.
In recognition of her contributions, the Archdiocese of Milwaukee honored her with the Vatican II Award for Leadership in Education in 2010. Yet awards were never her goal. Her joy came from watching students and teachers thrive and knowing families felt supported by their school community.
True to her Salvatorian spirit, Sister Virginia continued to serve even after retirement. She traveled to Tanzania in East Africa, teaching English to young Salvatorian Sisters preparing for religious life, and supporting local initiatives that strengthened communities. One project she helped organize raised over $70,000 for agricultural development, improving food security and creating new opportunities for families. Her leadership once again brought renewal and hope where it was most needed.
Today, as Sister Virginia enjoys her later years, her story mirrors that of countless other Sisters who have served in schools, hospitals, parishes and missions near and far. Their modest stipends and simple lifestyles witness deeply to Gospel simplicity, yet they now rely on the generosity of others for their own care. The Foundation for Religious Retirement exists to ensure they can live their later years with dignity, appropriate care, and the security of community life. By supporting the Foundation, the wider Church shares in the spirit of Christ’s Resurrection— restoring hope and new life to those who have selflessly given theirs in service.
For many donors, giving to the Foundation is also personal. It may honor the Sister who nurtured a vocation, taught a treasured lesson, or offered comfort in a time of need. Behind every contribution is a story of gratitude and renewal. Supporting the Foundation allows those stories—and the Sisters’ witness—to continue, even as they step back from active ministry.
This Easter season, as we rejoice in the Risen Christ, the life of Sister Virginia Honish reminds us that resurrection is more than a moment in time—it is a way of living. Her journey from a Milwaukee high school graduate to teacher, principal, congregational leader, and missionary stands as a testament to the enduring hope that springs from one generous “yes” to God.
— by Tim Kanza