Newest co-members bring a spirit of service, share in spirituality & enrich community ties

Earna Rae Volk

Accepted as a co-member on March 17, 2019

Earna fell in love with the Sisters of Loretto as soon as she stepped foot on the grounds of the Motherhouse. Her devotion grew from working as a nurse aide into her role as an active co-member. She spoke of Loretto being a Community that has “bonded me to something deeper than I had ever experienced.”

Earna has worked as the receptionist for the Motherhouse for almost seven years. She also assists the sisters, taking them shopping, out to eat, helping with their computers, and out to play bingo. “I do anything for them that I can.” One sister commented, “She spends a lot of time just talking with Infirmary residents who come down to visit with her. I have been truly inspired by her compassion and kindness with everyone.”

Born in Lancaster, Kentucky, Earna now lives in Lebanon, Kentucky, with her partner, Kevin Stumph. She has two living siblings, a sister and brother, and a grown son.

Earna understands and espouses Loretto values, takes an active role in many events here at the Motherhouse. Her buoyant personality and real care are testaments to who she is.

Earna is a vital part of this Community.

Angela Bianco SL

Photos by Peg Jacobs CoL and Nicole Martinez

Leslee Moore

Accepted as a co-member on June 9, 2019

Leslee is serving as a volunteer in the Loretto Heritage Center. She also serves on the Pakistan Mission Committee and attended the U.N. Commission on the Status of Women, sharing her experiences with the Community upon her return. Leslee is the newest editor of Interchange, Loretto’s internal newsletter. She is a familiar visitor at the Loretto Motherhouse on Sundays for Mass and dinner.

Leslee first connected with Loretto in 2016, as she explored various communities. After attending a Loretto retreat in May 2017, she never looked back. “That quiet space deep within me knows this is where I belong. … I have been given so much by this Community that I could never give back enough to properly show my gratitude. The journey that began at the retreat in May of 2017 is a lifelong commitment, a true calling.”

Born in Poughkeepsie, New York, Leslee’s family moved to Lexington, Kentucky, when she was 3 years old. She has lived in central Kentucky since. She attended public school and 11 years of catechism class. Leslee and her husband, David, live in Lexington and have two sons and two grandchildren.

I hope in return I can bring to the Community an energy and a capacity for hard work that can be put to good use.

Leslee Moore CoL