Congratulations on 25 Years of Covenant Companionship
Charlotte grew up in Cicero, IL, and summers were spent with her Southern Baptist grandparents in Newton, MI. At age 16 she entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, St. Louis Province. While preparing to renew her vows for the second year, Charlotte was asked to leave to gain more life experience for the work she eventually would be doing with the girls in her care.
Five months later, while standing up to her cousin’s wedding, she met Bob Loizzi. Three years later they were married and welcomed four children and seven grandchildren during their 62 years of marriage.
Remembering the request to gather more life experiences, Charlotte graduated from nurse’s training and worked at several hospitals. The first and most difficult assignment was at Hines VA Medical Center. She also worked at GlenOaks Hospital in stress management and drug and alcohol abuse and later earned her certificate in psychiatric nursing while employed at Elmhurst Hospital.
While working at St. Alexander’s Church in Villa Park, Charlotte learned about a program called parish nursing (PN). After completing her PN training, she convinced the parish board to officially hire her as a parish nurse. This was her happiest time as a nurse except for the seven years she nursed Bob five days a week during his dialysis treatments.
Charlotte discovered the Wheaton Franciscans while driving to PN classes with Covenant Companion Sue Monaco and meeting in a small group with Covenant Companion Ann Kuhn. She was gifted to have Sisters Mary Ellen and Fran as her spiritual directors. Charlotte became involved in many activities with the Wheaton Franciscans and served in the early years of the Covenant Companion Leadership Circle.
“Becoming a covenant companion seemed like the natural plan for my next life experience and commitment,” explains Charlotte. “In a small faith-sharing group with Sisters Mary Ellen, Diane, and Genevieve, I saw the Gospel Way was lived right before my eyes.”
As Charlotte prepares to welcome her first great-grandchild, she sums up,
“The glory of God is a life well lived! That is my desire.”
Congratulations Charlotte and thank you for your commitment to the covenant way of life!
I didn’t know Charlotte Loizzi was celebrating a jubilarian milestone. What a nice way to honor someone with a rich history.
Charlotte, we are so grateful to be able to join you for this special jubilee time. Your 25 years of journeying with us as a Wheaton Franciscan Covenant Companion is a blessing for all of us. your sensitivity, caring and concern for others has been a gift. We are so honored to know you and to celebrate your life.
Srs. Bea and Sylvia