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Celebrating 40 Years: Sr. Rose Therese Lange

Sr. Rose Therese Lange was a trailblazer for long-term shelter services for survivors of domestic violence. A fearless advocate for survivors and their children, she taught culture-shifting concepts we continue to teach today:

  • Domestic violence is never the victim’s fault.
  • Domestic violence is common and can be lethal.
  • Children who witness domestic violence need and deserve special intervention.
  • With time and resources, families can heal.

Watch this interview from 1994, the 10-year anniversary of Bethany House.

Before becoming the founding director of Bethany House, Sr. Rose Therese Lange was a teacher and principal.  

She also served the Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, Ohio as:

  • Director of Postulants
  • Director of Novices
  • Director of Religious Education
  • General Councilor

When Bethany House opened on January 1, 1984, it was sheltering two women and five children in a house in Toledo.

Sr. Rose Therese lived on-site alongside participants and served as House Coordinator.

The first house (pictured right) was located at the rectory of Immaculate Conception on Western Ave.  Today, that property serves as the location for La Posada family shelter, a ministry of Catholic Charities.

In 1990, Bethany House relocated to a closed convent located at St. Hedwigs.

Scroll through the gallery below to see the humble beginnings of the original shared kitchen and living room, as well as the second location.

“Sr. Rose Therese says I’m a beautiful person.” 

Check out this video from 1991.

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