Monica Murphy: Paying it Forward Like the Sisters—Quietly, but Powerfully

Monica Murphy has long admired the quiet power of Catholic Sisters and how they move through the world with grace, integrity, and impact. “From grade school to college, the Sisters were always there,” Monica reflects. “They were smart, dedicated women who were making the world better—quietly, but powerfully. I didn’t realize at the time how much they influenced me. But they did.”

Monica grew up in the Twin Cities, where the presence of Sisters shaped her educational and spiritual foundation. She attended Catholic grade school, high school, and later attended St. Catherine University (St. Kate’s), just like Sisters Rising Worldwide’s founder, Sister Irene O’Neill. “The social justice piece always spoke to me,” she says. “The Sisters planted seeds along the way. I saw firsthand their dedication, integrity, and passion for helping children and making the world a better place. I’ve always had deep respect for them.”

That influence stayed with her. Years later, when Sister Irene shared her vision for Sisters Rising Worldwide and the PeaceRoom platform, Monica immediately saw the potential. “I remember her saying she had found someone to build the platform, and I thought, this is going to be amazing. I’ve been a huge fan ever since.”

What Monica values most about SRW is how closely it aligns with her core beliefs: transparency, action, and heart. “The Sisters do the research. They know the root of a problem, and they move forward to solve it. They don’t need a lot of big meetings or studies; they just get it done. As someone who wants to volunteer and make an impact, it’s easy for me to contribute and support them. It lines up with what I love.”

She adds with enthusiasm, “I know that my money is going to good use. I know what the Sisters and SRW value, and I know how transparent the work is. It’s all going to the Sisters. I can just hear the Sisters saying, ‘We are on it!’ It really speaks to me. It’s easy for me to give.”

But for Monica, it’s about more than giving—it’s about being part of something bigger. “Those Sisters bring us hope,” she says. “They put my faith back in humanity. They inspire me to want to join them and to pass the word on. I’m grateful for them, and they motivate me to do more good in the world, just as they are doing. I feel lucky to know them.”

Monica doesn’t just support the mission in a meaningful way; she spreads it. Whether it’s inviting others to explore the website or introducing SRW in spaces like Rotary meetings, she enjoys helping others connect with the work. “People need to know Sisters Rising Worldwide. I always say, go to the website. See what projects speak to you. You’ll find something you connect with, and make it possible.”

Sister Irene O’Neill reflects, “Monica is a force of goodness, and her meaningful support has helped SRW grow. She not only supports the Sisters’ work, but she amplifies it, and I am profoundly grateful for her voice, her heart, and her trust in us.”

Now entering a new chapter in life, with her daughter, Catherine, going off to college this fall, Monica will have more time for traveling, hiking, skiing, and playing pickleball. All the while, Monica continues to walk alongside the Sisters, helping lift their work and lighting the way for others to do the same.

Join Monica in sharing this powerful movement. Check out these current Sister-led projects, support one that resonates with you, and then share it with three friends, just like Monica would!

Pictured: Monica, her daughter, Catherine, and their dog Snowball