Celebrating 70 Years: Honoring Sister Jane Petzel’s Jubilee
Sister Jane Petzel has embraced religious life as a gift rooted in faith, kindness, and Franciscan spirit. Drawn to religious life from a young age, she admired the Franciscan sisters who taught her for their strength, kindness, and care for children.
Over time, she came to deeply value the Franciscan understanding of community, creation, and connectedness, describing her calling as “a pure gift” that continues to shape her life and faith each day.
“The Wheaton Franciscans live as if there is a future, and I wanted to be part of that.”
Much of Sister Jane’s ministry was devoted to education, where she taught elementary students and helped children recognize their own creativity and potential. She especially loved engaging students through art, music, writing, and drama, creating joyful spaces for creativity and growth. She also served as a Director of Religious Education, working alongside catechists and families to share timeless values in meaningful ways.
Now celebrating her 70th Jubilee, Sister Jane reflects with gratitude on a lifetime of Franciscan life and ministry. Remembered for her warmth, creativity, and deep care for others, her favorite memory comes from a former student who once told her, “I don’t remember you as my teacher — I remember you as my friend.”
“Most of my years were spent teaching elementary grades 1 – 8. I enjoyed them all because I loved being with children. Most of all, I loved helping them feel good about themselves, who they were, and what they could accomplish.”