Collaboration and justice have always been at the heart of S. Louise Lears’ ministry. A Sister of Charity of Cincinnati, S. Louise has dedicated her life to advocating for peace and justice rooted in Gospel values. Her extensive education, including a master’s in theology from St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore and a Ph.D. in health care ethics from St. Louis University, has equipped her to serve in diverse roles—hospital chaplain, medical ethicist, adjunct faculty, and congregational leader for the Sisters of Charity. Experiences in Cuba, Guatemala, and El Salvador deepened her awareness of the needs and hopes of the marginalized.
Currently serving as a creation care advocate with the Franciscan Action Network, S. Louise remains engaged in justice issues. Living in the Washington, D.C., area for a few years allowed her to participate actively in vigils, rallies, and protests, standing up for peace and justice. In fall 2024, she joined the Nuns on the Bus & Friends “Vote Our Future” tour, encouraging people to be multi-issue voters and to build a future where “everyone thrives, no exceptions.” Reflecting on her decision to join the tour, she recalled the words of S. Blandina Segale: Do whatever presents itself, and never omit anything because of hardship or repugnance. This guiding principle led her to accept what she called a “total gift” and an opportunity to make a difference.
One of the most powerful moments of the tour was the act of signing the bus—an invitation extended to all who attended rallies, press conferences, and town halls. By the end of the journey, the bus was covered in thousands of signatures, representing a multi-faith community committed to justice. “The sense of the ‘beloved community’ was palpable,” S. Louise shared. “I loved knowing that those signatures enveloped us as we rode the bus.”
In March 2023, S. Louise co-founded the Community’s Peace and Nonviolence Justice Circle with S. Andrea Koverman. The Circle fosters personal transformation and nonviolent approaches to addressing injustice and suffering. Inspired by the study program Engaging Nonviolence: Activating Nonviolent Change in Our Lives and Our World, members explore ways to follow the example of the nonviolent Jesus. “I knew in my heart I had to be involved,” S. Louise said.
Guest speakers have further shaped the Circle’s mission. In January 2024, Eli McCarthy of Georgetown University shared insights from Ukrainian faith leaders who have engaged in nonviolent resistance. Dominican Sister Carol Gilbert, a long-time advocate against nuclear weapons, described nonviolence as an inclusive circle with no hierarchy—everyone is called to participate in their own way.
The Circle addresses issues ranging from gun violence and war to human trafficking, emphasizing how individuals can cultivate nonviolence in their relationships, workplaces, and communities. “Just look at our world now,” S. Louise said. “Turn on any news station or read any paper—our world desperately needs a commitment to peace and nonviolence.”
With her unwavering dedication, S. Louise Lears continues to inspire others to take a stand for justice and peace, one action at a time.
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