Permanent Associates
When St. John Eudes gathered his own associates in 17th century France, he noticed that among their ranks certain individuals were seeking an even more radical commitment. Often, their situation in life or their health prevented them from joining religious life. For them, he founded the Society of the Admirable Heart, so they could consecrate themselves entirely to Christ and live as lay missionaries in the world.
A notable member of this Society in the 18th century was St. Jeanne Jugan. Her apostolate as a consecrated Eudist associate grew so much that it brought her to found the Little Sisters of the Poor.
Ruthann Besterci
Care for retired priests, Liturgical Trainer at St. Patrick Parish
A native of Chicago, IL, Ruthann is a longtime associate and made her permanent consecration in 2011. She calls herself the “Eudist taxi” because of how often she provides transportation for various members of the Eudist family. She has also given invaluable service to retired and ailing priests in the CJM, and has ministered to them through their final moments. At St. Patrick Parish in Carlsbad, CA she assists in the mission of evangelization by running the training program for altar servers and Eucharistic ministers.
Sally Jacobus
Joan of Arc Residence, Spiritual Retreats
A native of Michigan, Sally is a staff member at the Joan of Arc Residence for underprivileged women in Downtown San Diego, which is an apostolate of the Religious of Jesus and Mary. She is also an active member of the Cursillo Movement, the Ignatian Spiritualty Project’s retreats for homeless persons, and is quickly becoming a specialist in Eudist spirituality. She was an active volunteer at the SDSU Newman Club when the Eudist Fathers were in charge, and a vital member of the community.
