Sister Martha Abshire, FMOL, has spent decades serving others. Not from a place of duty, but from a heart filled with compassion, faith and a relentless drive to make a difference.
Sr. Martha’s story is one of deep commitment, humility and a profound sense of purpose.
A Life of Service, Rooted in Faith
Sr. Martha’s journey began in a Crowley, Louisiana, where she first felt called to a life of service. Growing up on a rice farm as the oldest of four children, she learned early on the importance of hard work and caring for others. But it was an experience in her teenage years that truly sparked her desire to become a nurse.
“When I was 16, my mom was involved in a car accident, and she spent four and a half months in the hospital,” Sr. Martha recalls. “I spent one night with her, and I saw how much of an impact a nurse could have on a patient’s life.”
Inspired by this experience, Sr. Martha switched her focus from studying music to pursuing nursing. She had expected to marry and have a houseful of kids.
“But here, the Lord was picking at me about religious life,” she remembers. She felt called to come and see what the Lord wanted of her. “So I came to see, and 57 years later, I’m still here.”
Her early years were spent in nursing, providing hands-on care to patients and supporting families during their most difficult moments. But her mission didn’t stop at the bedside.
Committed to Education
Throughout her career, Sr. Martha has worn many hats — nurse, mentor, administrator and spiritual leader.
She worked with the General Council in Paris from 1994 to 1998, assisting the General Superior of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady. Her work has also taken her to 15 countries, including multiple visits to Rome and Assisi in Italy.
Sister Martha fulfilled her commitment to education and healthcare when she took on a role at Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University (FranU), where she has supported the next generation of nurses and healthcare leaders.
“Out of our simple school of nursing, we have a university,” Sr. Martha says. “As a 1972 graduate of our school of nursing, I’m in awe at what has developed over the years.”
Our Ministry’s Global Impact
For many years Sr. Martha has served as the liaison to the mission in Haiti, fostering the connection between her local and global work. Her on-the-ground experiences in Haiti are particularly poignant.
Sr. Martha spent six years in Haiti during a military dictatorship, caring for torture victims and helping those in need. Despite the hardships, Sr. Martha’s love for the Haitian people and her commitment to helping them never wavered.
Sr. Martha’s legacy isn’t defined by titles or achievements but by the countless lives she’s touched. Whether holding a patient’s hand, mentoring a young nurse or guiding the next generation of healthcare leaders at FranU, Sr. Martha’s impact is undeniable.
Celebrating Women’s History Month
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we honor the women who have shaped the world around us. Sr. Martha’s story is just one example of how women have been foundational to our health system, leading with compassion, wisdom and unshakable faith. Founded by women, for all those in need, our mission is carried forward by countless women who lead with heart.
“Six women came from France to Louisiana, without a penny in their pocket,” Sr. Martha says. “The health system that we have today was the love and sacrifice they did. We’re passing the baton to each and every one of you. Know the story of the Sisters and understand that you are now the carrier of that story to the next level.”
