Long-Time Friend of Sister Continues Support of Congregation After Her Passing

Friendship with an Adrian Dominican Sister or Associate can often lead to friendship and support of the Adrian Dominican Congregation. That is the experience of Monsignor James Dillenburg, a friend of Sister Dorothy Guettler, OP, since the 1980s. His support of the Congregation continued after Sister Dorothy died on December 14, 2021, and, as a Heritage Society member, it will continue after his own death.

Father Jim's ministry at the Port of Green Bay led him, ironically, to Pensacola, Florida, where he met Sister Dorothy. "I was pastor, but also chaplain to the Port of Green Bay" through the National Apostleship of the Sea, a professional association of Catholic ministers, he said. As National Director, he moved to Pensacola, where his office was near hers. The two got to know each other and worked together on a middle school education program.

Through the years, they stayed in touch. Father Jim recalled visiting Sister Dorothy when she was Campus Administrator at the Motherhouse. "She had such respect, love, and dedication," he said. "She wasn't doing the job for herself. She was doing the job for you. Everything she did, she did out of her love."

Father Jim returned to the Diocese of Green Bay and served as pastor of two parishes, as well as Vocations Director. Now retired, he continues his long-time practice of walking with people on their spiritual journeys – now twice a week with a person who had suffered terrible abuse as a child. "It's the hardest thing I've done and in so many ways the most rewarding," Father Jim said.

Father Jim became a donor when he and his sister, Mary, visited Sister Dorothy in Adrian, staying at Weber Center and making contributions for their overnight stays. "So, we got on the [donors'] list," he said. "Dorothy didn't encourage me to be part of the Heritage Society, but knowing her and how they were taking care of her, I thought I could step up a little more than I have in the past. It gave me a chance to participate a little more in the good work that you are doing."

Father Jim is grateful that Sister Dorothy came into his life – and, through his connection to Sister Dorothy, the Adrian Dominican Congregation. "I have a soft spot in my heart for the Adrian Dominican Sisters for sure," he said. "Everything I hear about the Adrian Dominican Sisters has been inspiring me. I'm glad we had that connection. Your community was such a major part of who she was." E