The Rural Parish Workers live in daily contact with the rural poor, sharing their problems,
providing financial & other types of assistance while carrying on social
& religious welfare work. The people we serve are among the poorest
in Missouri. Our program helps unemployed men remain productive
by having them help other members of the community, including
the old and frail, & women with small children and little means of support.
We support & assist people of all ages, providing a
place for spiritual shelter & help with material needs.

This is a special ministry - a ministry which began in 1942
when Alice Widmer and LaDonna Hermann left St. Louis to
serve the rural poor. With the blessing of the late John
Cardinal Glennon, these two "city girls" settled in Cottleville,
Missouri in St. Charles County. In 1949, they were called
to move to their ministry to Fertile, Missouri, where LaDonna
continues her work today. This small community has continued
to thrive with the help of Natalie Villmer, Doris Ann Bequette,
Neva Calvert, and Monica Pashia, Oblate. Their
multi-faceted ministry is ever changing - going beyond the
basic needs of food, clothing, and shelter. Along with their
archdiocesan and civic work, they sponsor a self-help work program,
help rehab homes, and conduct religious and social events
at St. Michael House.

Most importantly, they restore human dignity.

The Rural Parish Workers are women dedicated to God by
Benedictine vows of poverty, charity, and obedience.
They welcome your assistance to help the families they serve
and invite you to call or visit them.

15540 Cannon Mines Road
Fertile, Mo. 63630
1.636.586.5171

Email Us!

"Please donate to the Archdiocese Catholic
Appeal if you have not already done so. We receive
generous funds through the ACA. You can contact your
local Parish or visit the ACA office on line at
www.archstl.org and donate directly there."