Sr. Ellen Gorman, CND: A Life of Compassion and Creativity!

Sr. Ellen Gorman, CND found the encouragement she needed in the Congrégation de Notre Dame. Diagnosed with dyslexia as a child, she was in fourth grade when the CND Sisters began teaching at her school in New Haven, CT. Their gentle guidance helped her grow in confidence-and faith.

After high school, Sr. Ellen entered the Congrégation. Teaching wasn’t on her radar because of her learning challenges, so she chose a different path-joining a program in Ottawa that trained young Sisters to cook for large convents. She loved every minute of it. Her creative flair soon brightened kitchens in Staten Island and Schenectady, where she designed festive buffets and added warmth and style to dining spaces ­ something she still enjoys today at Holy Cross Convent in Waterbury, CT.

A new chapter began when she was invited to teach religious education in Manchester, CT. With encouragement from those around her, Sr. Ellen pursued a college degree and eventually earned a master’s in social work from Fordham University. Her ministry as a social worker took her to Illinois, New York, and Connecticut, where she supported infants, teens, and women healing from trauma. Her final ministry was one of quiet presence­ visiting the elderly and sick in Oxford, CT.

Sr. Ellen’s creativity also finds expression in art and gardening-especially at the CND’s summer home in Charlestown, RI. She draws deep inspiration from St. Marguerite Bourgeoys.

‘‘I have a strong sense of her always walking with me,” she says. ‘‘I love the image of the Visitation. It’s about compassion ­ and that’s the spirit I hope to live.”