Sixty years later, Sister Ginny remembered for helping people on their journey
Sixty years after she joined the Franciscan order as a nun, Virginia “Ginny” Heldorfer continues to help people find their way on their spiritual journey through life. (Submitted photo)
Franciscan nun worked at St. Wenceslaus for nine years
Her close friends describe Virginia Heldorfer as someone who with compassion and will unconditionally accept people wherever they are on life’s expedition. She enjoys funny stories and good conversations over a cup of coffee.
To those who don’t know her well, that may not sound like the typical Catholic nun. Sixty years after she began her journey as a Franciscan, Heldorfer – her friends call her “Ginny” – is still fulfilled by helping people enjoy a sense of comfort and whatever faith means to them. Sister Ginny celebrated her diamond jubilee (60 years) Sunday, June 22, at Mount St. Francis Center in Dubuque, Iowa.
From 2000-2009, Sister Ginny served as pastoral minister at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in New Prague. She currently lives in Dubuque and serves as a spiritual director and also a medical companion for the sisters in her congregation.
"These 60 years have been filled with delightful relationships, adventures and opportunities that have expanded my world view,” she said. “I am filled with joy and gratitude as I celebrate with my friends, family, and my Franciscan sisters."
The Franciscans appealed to her. The order is known for its belief in the corporal works of mercy. Its members enjoy a simple lifestyle and standing up for people without a strong voice. Franciscans, she said, believe in peaceful conflict resolution, and a life without guns and weapons. They support the victims of human trafficking, immigrants looking for a better life and people looking for peace and security, regardless of who they love.
“We treat each other as if they are all in our family,” Sister Ginny said. “God loves everybody.”
She meets occasionally with her friends in New Prague. A group of women recently met Sister Ginny to celebrate her anniversary over lunch in Preston, Minn., a gathering similar to when they used to meet for morning coffee at the bakery or at a New Prague restaurant.
“When she came here, she was a breath of fresh air,” Darlene Witt said, recalling Sr. Ginny’s work. Witt recalled her friend bringing new ideas for...
To see more on this story pick up the July 3, 2025 print edition of The New Prague Times.
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