Meet Sr. Cellie Bowens

Meet Sr. Celestine Bowens (Sr. Cellie) member of the Congregation of St. Thomas Aquinas. To put it simply, Sr. Cellie lives by the motivation of spreading kindness.   

“To be kind, reach out a hand, smile at them, maybe it is the only smile they get that day,” Sr. Cellie Bowens states.   

Sr. Cellie is the definition of To Love Thy Neighbor; she has a warm and friendly personality. Upon meeting, she opens her heart and welcomes all. She has created an environment around her that is a safe place for everyone.  

Sr. Cellie lived an incredible life of service with a focus on education and social work. She taught reading, science and choir with her unforgettable teaching style. Look up ‘Grunion Run’ to get an idea of the fascinating discoveries she had her students witness in person.   

She worked firsthand in the Witness for Peace in Central America, spending time in Nicaragua working among the people and learning about their difficult situation against the Contra war on Nicaragua. Her passion for social justice and demonstrations had her arrested on multiple occasions yet she never pushed aside her morals or foresight for just causes.    

Sr. Cellie lived and served countless days and nights at Masten Towers, affordable housing for the elderly and mobility impaired, and would do it again in a heartbeat. She dedicated her time to help shape her residents' lives and give them a shoulder to lean on.   

Although retired, due to her physical capabilities, her legacy will continue to live on.   

The Diocese of Fresno is honored to have extraordinary women like Sr. Cellie serving in ministry.