Patricia Eeckhout, CDP
Sister Patricia Eeckhout entered religious life from St. Isaac Jogues in St. Clair Shores, MI. The Sisters who taught her at St. Isaac Jogues, especially Sisters Rita Burns and Jeanine Ruhe, influenced her decision to enter religious life.
She was an English teacher in Catholic schools, including Bishop Canevin High School in Pittsburgh (1974-80), Bishop Gallagher High School in Harper Woods, MI (1980-2000) and De La Salle Collegiate High School in Warren, MI (2000-12). Since 2012, she has served as a bookkeeper at De La Salle Collegiate High School.
When reflecting on her life as a religious, she says, "The only person who knew I was entering religious life was my mother. I was surprised that God had called me to be a religious. I had applied for a position with the Detroit Police Academy, but I felt God was calling me to religious life. I decided to enter the Sisters of Divine Providence to see if there was a true calling from God. After I had lived with the Sisters for three months, I received an acceptance letter from the Detroit Police Academy. At that point in my life, I was committed to my vocation and I have never looked back. I am grateful that God called me to the Sisters of Divine Providence, and I am faithful to my calling. I enjoyed teaching high school students for 40 years. I enjoy working as a bookkeeper and meeting families on a different level. I know I have been blessed in many ways as a religious and in my ministry. I thank God daily for being able to serve as a Provident Woman with the Sisters of Divine Providence."
Self-described as energetic, prayerful, supportive and committed, Sister Pat enjoys gardening, fixing broken items and cooking.
CLICK HERE to make a gift in honor of Sister Patricia's 50th Jubilee.