The Value Tree

The tree mural, painted by Kayla Gustin

Sister Ardella Kvamme now looks at a new scene outside her office at Saint Scholastica Convent. However, it’s not outside her window, but outside her door in the hallway! A mural has been painted by our wellness director, Kayla Gustin.

The scene is a beautiful tree that goes from floor to ceiling and has branches that are far reaching down the hallway. The painting is not only lovely, but also purposeful. The idea grew from an initial meeting of a committee formed to further integrate our mission and values at Saint Scholastica.

Throughout the year, we will use the tree to participate in various activities in which a Benedictine value will be featured alongside the tree. For starters, both sisters and staff were invited to complete a sentence starter that was printed on a paper apple and related to the featured value. Those apples were then hung on the tree.

This is a visible way we can further our mission where we live, and we will be able to see how those who work with us share the same values.

This blog was adapted from an article that appeared in the fall 2018 issue of Benedictine Sisters and Friends.

 Janelle Sietsema, OSB