MT. VERNON – SSM Health is celebrating the founder’s values during Mission and Heritage Week.

As part of Heritage Week at SSM Health, each employee receives a loaf of bread, symbolizing the importance of continuing the legacy of the founding sisters by giving their all each day to those in need—physically, spiritually, and emotionally.

This tradition is rooted in the story of Mother Odilia, who once gave her last loaf of bread to a man seeking food, saying that the Lord would provide for them. Hours later, a child arrived at the convent with freshly baked rolls for the sisters. The child was greeted with the words, “The Lord has come. You are the Lord today, little one.”

SSM Health employees embody the spirit of Mother Odilia, the foundress of the congregation now known as the Franciscan Sisters of Mary, as well as the Felician Sisters and the Sisters of St. Agnes. They courageously continue the work initiated over a century ago. As SSM Health grows and evolves to meet the needs of the communities it serves, the organization remains dedicated to upholding its 150+ year legacy of healing.