by Don Stubbings, Director of SCL Associates
In 1896, Dr. Henry Chapple and Fr. Clarence Van Clarenbeck traveled to Leavenworth to persuade the Sisters to establish a hospital in Billings, Montana. In true Sisters’ fashion, they agreed, and just two years later, St. Vincent’s Hospital opened its doors in Billings.
On Friday, May 2, 2025, Associates, Sisters, and guests gathered in the Archives room to celebrate the rich history of the hospital. The room displays the hospital’s evolution, including a “walk back in time” exhibit featuring nursing uniforms, hospital logs, yearbooks, and historical medical equipment, such as devices used during the polio outbreak. The Archives also highlight the legacy of the nursing school, which provided education to hundreds of women, many of whom were Sisters and Associates who began their healing journeys at St. Vincent’s.
Those gathered on Friday engaged in heartfelt conversations about the past, recalling Sisters who were instrumental in their spiritual growth and journey to become an Associate. A book authored by Sue Hart, SCLA, was prominently displayed in the gathering space. As I flipped through its pages, I was reminded of the mission and the vital role our Associates play in its future. The evening served as a reunion, a history lesson, and a powerful reflection on how we continue to serve those on the margins with renewed spirit.
On Saturday morning, we returned to the Archives for a mission-centered conversation over coffee, facilitated by Tracy Neary, SCLA and Vice President of Mission Integration for Intermountain Health. Tracy spoke about the importance of Catholic healthcare and how new employees are introduced to the legacy of St. Vincent’s Hospital, Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, and its whole-person care philosophy. Associates and Sisters also learned more about the safeguards in place to preserve the founding values of St. Vincent’s through the ongoing oversight of Leaven Ministries and others following the 2023 merger. These discussions were open and reassuring, affirming that the mission lives on and that Associates have opportunities to stay involved, such as through volunteering at the hospital.
In the afternoon, we visited “Off the Streets,” a low-barrier emergency shelter and transitional housing facility located in a restored motel in central Billings. Our time began with lunch shared among residents, staff, Associates, and Sisters. Residents shared their powerful stories and how the program gave them a sense of safety, community, and dignity. Transitioning from the shelter into housing requires residents to pay rent and maintain their rooms, essential steps toward long-term stability as they await access to affordable housing in Billings, which, according to Craig Barthel, the founder of Off the Streets, could be two to three years.
After lunch, Craig Barthel, Jim Mack, and other staff shared the inspiring story of how Off the Streets came to be. Their presentation reflected a deep commitment to the organization’s mission:
“We are committed to breaking the cycle of homelessness by building relationships that empower individuals to achieve their self-determined goals.”
Sunday was a day for Mass and retreat. We gathered at St. Patrick’s Co-Cathedral, where we were welcomed with beautiful music by Glenda Newman, SCLA. Mass was celebrated by Fr. Leo McDowell, whose homily emphasized the rich history of the SCL and SCLA communities serving those most in need.
After Mass, we enjoyed a lunch of fried chicken and continued our mission-centered conversations. The weekend concluded with a spiritually enriching retreat led by Sr. Eileen Hurley. Her guidance allowed us to spend the afternoon in quiet reflection on readings, followed by a group sharing session that brought our experiences full circle.
Our weekend began with history—learning about the Sisters through the Archives—and continued with witnessing powerful stories of transformation from homelessness to housing. While names may change, the mission remains steadfast. We left Sunday with full hearts, warm hugs, and hopeful farewells, looking forward to the good that is yet to be.
