On Monday, July 1, 2024, Sister Leona (Mary Ambrose) Luechtefeld, ASC, celebrated 82 years as a vowed member of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ. She marked her anniversary with the Eucharist and a reception at Benedictine Living Community on the grounds of the Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows near Belleville, IL. Sister Leona made her first profession on July 1, 1942, and her final vows on July 1, 1947. She was born in St. Libory, IL, to Libory and Anna Luechtefeld. She earned her certificate in Dietetics from Fontbonne University in St. Louis.
Sister Leona spent 34 years in the Food Service and Dietetics ministry, serving in the Illinois parishes of St. Mary in Mount Carmel, St. Mary in Herrin, Saints Peter and Paul in Waterloo, the Ruma Center in Ruma and at the Bishop’s Residence in Belleville. She served in St. Louis at Our Lady House of Studies on the campus of Saint Louis University.
Through a close friend, Sr. Mary (Mary Pius) Simpson, Sr. Leona became increasingly aware of the plight of the elderly in the East St. Louis area. In 1976, she joined Sr. Mary in her advocacy for this group of seniors by working with Land of Lincoln Legal Aid, based in East St. Louis. For over 40 years she was also involved in advocacy and outreach with Programs and Services for Older Persons in Belleville, IL. By 1982, she had added another service by volunteering with the compassionate ministry called Hospice of Southern Illinois.
Based on her notable contributions to the welfare of senior citizens, the mayor of Belleville proclaimed a “Sister Leona Luechtefeld Day” in the city. In addition, there is a Sister Leona Luechtefeld Service Award, which is presented each year to persons who exemplify her commitment to service.
Sister Leona recently moved to Benedictine Living Community. She is Living Mission in Later Life where her primary ministry is prayer.