During the Depression Era the Sisters of Loretto in El Paso, TX focused even more steadfastly on their motto, "God will provide," The stock market crash had profound implications for all Americans, especially those along the border. Parents had less tuition money. Donors contributed less and parts of what is now known as Loretto Academy remained under construction. Elementary schools run by the nuns had to be managed in an ever more thrifty way. The Plaza Theatre opened in Sept 1930 offering movies as escape. Mother Praxedes and Superior General Olivette Norton went on Jan 19. 1931 to St. Louis to get an $80,000 loan to continue work on Little Theatre and the third unit of the Academy. Genoveva Anson arrived Aug 1932 to serve as superior for the next six years. Mother Praxedes' death occurred Dec. 16,1933. Her body lay in state in the chapel followed by a funeral Mass by Bishop Anthony Schuler. Exhiled Maria Reparatrice nuns from Guadalajara continued leasing St. Joseph's Academy at 704 N. El Paso St until 1934 until it became a day school for local girls under Sr. Alexis Sharp. Loretto students in 1936 participated in activities celebrating the Texas Centennial. Students Rose Anthony Mc Intyre, Bernice Juen, and Virginia Driscoll entered the order. In 1939 Eleanor Roosevelt visited El Paso as WW II approached.

Mother Praxedes Carty is seated second from left. Details of her leadership role in El Paso, TX included in Grace and Gumption The Women of El Paso edited by Marcia Hatfield Daudistel p. 97-98.

March is Women's History Month. Photo of Mother Praxedes and other members of Sisters of Loretto in El Paso, TX in front of Loretto Academy.