Russian River Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence

What is your name?

Sister Araya Sunshine

When did you join the Russian River Sisters?

In 2013. I was inspired to join after attending a couple of Bingos and speaking with and getting to know the Sisters.

When did you become fully professed?

In 2014, I became fully professed. I find joy in helping other people and I believe it is truly a calling for me.

What inspires your face?

Whatever moves me that day, and my face really hasn’t changed much over the years. I tend to be more flashy in how I dress rather than having having lots of bling on my face.

What is your particular ministry and why?

I was homeless for 2 years, and so I understand the suffering and loneliness of being unhoused. So the Cold Hands Warm Hearts ministry (that was my Novice project) is about connection with folks who are homeless as much as it is giving them gloves, hats, socks, ponchos and an emergency blanket. When I hand out these packets, I am talking with folks and really listening, and making that human connection. I seek the folks who are completely unsheltered, living rough under bridges and overpasses. I just do the footwork, and it is the community that does the giving to these vulnerable members of our community.

Who was your big Sister?

Sister Frances A Sissy

Who was your Mother?

Sister Sparkle Plenty (one of the founders of our Order).

What is your hobby in your secular life?

Art. I paint with watercolor, and I love to organize things.