Often, the two teachers went to the parish church to pray. As they knelt before the special cross there, they asked God’s guidance in their undertaking. This church and its cross are part of the heritage of the Sisters of Notre Dame; there is a replica of the cross in our hospital chapel.
   On October 1, 1850, Hillegonda and Elisabeth became Sisters of Notre Dame (of Coesfeld). Hillegonda became known as Sr. Mary Aloysia and Elisabeth became known as Sr. Mary Ignatia. The Rule was the same as that of the Sisters of Notre Dame Namur, founded by Julie Billiart and it reflected her spirit. In their dedication to God, Sr. Mary Aloysia and Sr. Mary Ignatia committed themselves and to the education and care of children.
   The Coesfeld community of Notre Dame grew and sisters were sent to teach in schools in the area. However, because of anti-religious legislation during the Kulturkampf, the sisters were required to leave Germany. Beginning in 1874, sisters were sent to Holland, but most of the sisters came to Cleveland, Ohio and Covington, Kentucky. Sr. Mary Aloysia was among the first sisters to come to the USA, landing in New York on July fourth.
   Several sisters came to Covington where they began teaching in parish schools. In a short time, the sisters established their own academy, Notre Dame Academy, which still exists today. They cared for orphan children and were involved in other works of charity. Today, their ministries also include healthcare and parish work.