Sister-Doctor Maria Goetzens was born in 1959. She grew up with three brothers, on a farm in the western part of Germany. She felt a strong desire to become a doctor from the time of her childhood. While studying, she looked for a group that could offer a short-term experience for medical students in a Third World country. The Medical Mission Sisters helped arrange for her to spend time in the Philippines.

"This experience influenced my life and profession in a very essential and meaningful way," says Sr. Maria. She entered the Medical Mission Sisters in 1983.

Sr. Maria is currently involved in a program that offers medical help to the homeless in Frankfurt. She also serves as District Coordinator in Germany, and is very involved with vocation promotion and the integration of new members.

"I am happy to be a member of our international Society," says Sr. Maria. "I have learned how essential it is to let my daily experiences be touched by God's unconditional love. I am learning from Jesus, the wounded healer, what it can mean to be a healing presence nowadays, every day anew."