In many ways, Maura Clarke, Ita Ford, Dorothy Kazel and Jean Donovan were typical of many young American Catholic women raised in the post-World War II era. Unlike others, their response to the teachings of Jesus led them not only to serve the poor in Latin America, but to their martyrdom. This look at their life stories will include presentations, the award-winning documentary, Roses in December, and an exploration of their writings.

Kathie Budesky, IHM, MA, the Director of Visitation North Spirituality Center, has many years of experience in the secondary education, both in the religious studies classroom and in the principal’s office.  She was a staff associate in the Ignatian Program in Spiritual Direction and Retreat Ministry at Guelph, Ontario.