Celebrating 60 Faithful Years: Sister Jackie Drazen’s Jubilee
This year, we honor the 60th Jubilee of Sister Jackie Drazen, whose life of commitment, faith, and service has been a shining example of the Franciscan spirit.
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Sister Jackie began her faith journey as a child. She was educated at Our Lady of Sorrows Elementary School and Bishop DuBourg High School in her hometown, then attended St. Francis College in Joliet, Illinois, and Florrisant Valley College and Forest Park Community College in St. Louis. She continued to deepen her knowledge and skills in service to others at St. Mary Junior College in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Sister Jackie entered religious life in 1965, professed her first vows in 1968, and her final vows in 1971 as a Wheaton Franciscan. Her call to the Franciscan way of life was inspired by her time working at St. Anthony Hospital, where she met several Wheaton Franciscan Sisters. Their kindness, gentleness, and joyful spirit left a deep impression on her.
“I felt a yearning to be like them,” Sister Jackie recalls. “They radiated a joy of having Jesus at the center of their lives. Often they would talk of St. Francis, and I knew I wanted the experience of both Jesus and Francis in my life.”
Over the decades, Sister Jackie has served in a variety of roles—from physical therapy and health care to maintenance and animation—bringing dedication and a deep sense of Franciscan hospitality to each ministry. When asked how she would like to be remembered, she reflects humbly:
“I hope others will remember me as one who is a loving and caring person and one who prays with both my lips and my heart. I’d like to be remembered as a compassionate and affirming community member.”
As we honor Sister Jackie on this milestone Jubilee, we give thanks for her 60 years of faithful service, love, and witness to the Gospel. May her journey continue to inspire all of us to live with joy, compassion, and the peace of Christ.
Congratulations, Sister Jackie, and thank you for your life of Franciscan grace!