In Memory of Lois Ann Swenson

The 5:00 p.m. news flashed this photo and went on to say that Lois Swenson, who lived alone in her modest North Minneapolis home was found dead after police went to do a welfare check.

Her face reached out from the television touching memories I could not quite pull into view.  I silently offered a prayer of thanksgiving to Lois who was described in the newscast as one whose life was lived fully in her giving and sharing.

I left home within minutes of this newscast to return to work to prepare for an evening program "Update on Afghanistan featuring Kathy Kelly."  51 people gathered to hear about her work with Voices for Creative Non Violence.  It was my pleasure to welcome participants on behalf of the Justice Commission to Carondelet Center.  I then introduced Sister Brigid McDonald to welcome Kathy.

Before she began with a noticably heavy heart she asked that we take a moment to remember Lois Swenson who died today.  She described Lois as an indefatigable worker for peace and justice, who'd give the shirt off her back, who dumpster dived to find clothes to wash and mend for the homeless, who welcomed people in need into her home and who was the heart and soul of WAMM (Women Against Military Madness).

Sister Brigid's description brought Lois fully into view as I remember her presence at numerous other social justice events.  After the presentation, I talked about the report of her death on the news.  So many in the room had worked alongside of her, knew her as a friend and colleague.  Their hearts were truly heavy.

The newspaper this morning said, "Lois Swenson died as a result of blunt force trauma" in her own home.  Now I know who she was, how she was killed and refuse to let her life of peace and justice be reduced to the violent act that ended her life, be defined by the violence of another human being!

Lois, thank you for your love of life, work for non violence and peace.  I know so little about you, I only spoke to you in welcome and greeting at events.  And I am grateful for the example you provide for all us.  In your honor and memory, our work continues.  This morning I hold your grieving family and friends in prayer and pray that the police find the one who took your life so violently. 

And I wonder, what led to the person (s) to choose violence? Why violence?  Why? Why is that the answer to so many problems? Why choose war against a person, a race, an ethnic group, nation, why ... ... ...