While the growth and learning of elementary school children is the primary focus of diocesan schools, Sister Thea Bowman in East St. Louis has expanded its educational endeavors to the families of students with the creation of the Family University Program.

While many friendships do not stand the test of time, Marlene Fridley, a parishioner at St. George in New Baden, knows the exception. Fridley forged a friendship 64 years ago with Hawaii-native Theresa Silva, a friendship she credits to a nun at her elementary school in McCartyville, Ohio.

HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese unveiled a new outpatient surgery center Nov. 9, with a blessing and dedication Mass led by the Most Reverend Stanley G. Schlarman, DD.
Officials said the new outpatient surgery center is designed to increase efficiency and patient privacy. The $9.4 million outpatient surgery expansion includes a 13,880 square-foot addition to house 22 ambulatory surgery prep/recovery rooms, including four infusion rooms, support space, consultation rooms, waiting areas, and a new ambulance garage.