Caruthersville, MO

Caruthersville is the Glenmary Sisters’ westernmost mission site and also the newest. Sister Darlene Presley and Sister Catherine Schoenborn opened the mission house in 2005.

Caruthersville is in the “boot heel” region of Missouri, which is known as a very poor area. In addition to the preexisting conditions of the area, a powerful tornado destroyed 60% of the city in April 2006. This has hurt the area even more, however, since the time of the storms, much of the citizens have started to rebuild with the help of others.

The city of Caruthersville is unique in many ways as it is a very economically poor town, yet there are very wealthy people who also live in the area. The businesses are primarily family run, yet there is a casino on the river. There is a diversity of ethnic groups, but racial trends still exist.

Sr. Darlene now runs the Caruthersville mission. She works tirelessly assisting those in need, planning events for the youth of the area who need attention, and giving time to the local Catholic Church. Her energy is a valuable asset to the residents of this area.