Margaret Held (Nun)
Margaret Held (Nun)
Sister Margaret Held was a Catholic nun and nurse with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in Kentucky.
Personal life
She lived with Sister Paula Merrill (Nun) in a home in Durant, Mississippi on Castalian Springs Road and shared a car. [1]
Sister Held and Sister Paula Merrill (Nun) worked together at the Lexington Medical Clinic in Lexington, Mississippi to treat people regardless if they could afford treatment. The nuns also regularly distributed books, school supplies and many other items to the needy. They ministered together for over 30 years. [1]
Death
On August 25, 2016, Sister Held and Sister Paula Merrill (Nun) were both found dead inside their home. Authorities say they were fatally stabbed. Police suspect the killings were part of an armed robbery since the nuns car was stolen, and there were signs of a break in. [0]
When the two nuns didn't show up to work on Thursday morning, a co-worker checked on them at 10:30 a.m., discovering their bodies and contacting police.
Their bodies were transported to the State Crime Lab, where pathologists are expected to conduct autopsies.
Statement by Bishop Joseph Kopacz
“These sisters have spent years of dedicated service here in Mississippi.
They absolutely loved the people in their community,” and “We mourn with the people of Lexington and Durant and we pray for the Sisters of Charity, the School Sisters of St. Francis and the families left behind."
Father Greg Plata a local priest had said “These were the two sweetest sisters you could imagine.
It’s so senseless,”