St. Joseph Mescalero Apache Mission
For the last four decades, Sr. Robert-Ann Hecker, OSF, of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Help, has brought comfort, hope, and renewed faith to both children and adults living on the Mescalero Apache reservation.
Sister knows many parents and tribal elders, as she once taught them from an early age, beginning with the Mescalero Apache Head Start Program, and then in catechism class at St. Joseph Apache Mission Church. She has led the religious education and RCIA programs, served as the parish life coordinator, and directed the food pantry, providing the essential services of hope in a place where approximately 43% of the population lives below the poverty line.
The Mescalero Apache tribe held a three-day ceremonial feast to celebrate Sr. Robert Anne's farewell. The celebration started in the morning with a sunrise dance, followed by Mass, then a blessing and feast where the women cooked and served Navajo tacos in the outdoor kitchen for a line of people that stretched from the parking lot to the church. In the evening, there was more ceremonial dancing to celebrate and honor Sister Robert Ann. Franciscan friars from as far away as San Diego, California, came to say farewell and bless her as a revered minister of Christ, friend, and sister to all. The farewell was a testament to her faith and service to our Lord. It was beautiful to see the many lives and hearts that she has accompanied over the years.
During her loving ministry to the people of Mescalero, she has been richly blessed in return. Sister Robert-Ann will be missed, but her unwavering dedication and years of devoted service will continue to be felt in the hearts of generations of faithful families she has taught, served, fed, cared for, and ministered to over the past 40 years.
