IN LOVING REMEMBRANCE

DECEASED SISTERS OF SAINT JOSEPH – 2006-8

 

 

2008

 

Sister Cordata Dunn

April 10, 2008

Sister Teresa Carmel Tomlinson

April 2, 2008

Sister Frances Hance

March 23, 2008

Sister Gertrude Cecilia Flynn

March 20, 2008

Sister Maria Trinita Reilly

March 4, 2008

Sister Saint Beatrice Brennan

February 28, 2008

Sister Mary Ganly

February 19, 2008

Sister Marie Christine Norbeck

February 1, 2008

Sister Jane Andrew Silvoy

January 29, 2008

Sister Florentine Scanlon

January 18, 2008

Sister Grace Beatrice Walker

January 8, 2008

Sister Mary Harold Knox

January 6, 2008

 

 

2007

 

Sister Consuelo Maria Aherne

December 27, 2007

Sister Anna Josephine Bennis

November 22, 2007

Sister Raymond Joseph Murphy

November 20, 2007

Sister Febronia Stanton

November 19, 2007

Sister St. Philip Neri Brophy

November 12, 2007

Sister Mary Scanlon (Sister James Anthony)

November 8, 2007

Sister John of the Cross Kirby

November 8, 2007

Sister Baptista McShane

September 29, 2007

Sister Alice Bernadette Lowry

September 11, 2007

Sister Charles Bernard Corbett

September 6, 2007

Sister Agnes Helene Bailey

September 3, 2007

Sister Francis Adelaide McDonnell

August 23, 2007

Sister Thomas Therese Catterall

August 16, 2007

Sister Maria Josita Perret

August 6, 2007

Sister Catherine Imelda Gerle

July 17, 2007

Sister Mary Ellen Gavitt

July 1, 2007

Sister Frances Celine Bennett

June 24, 2007

Sister Clare Michael Keating

June 22, 2007

Sister Florence Bentivoglio

June 21, 2007

Sister Lawrence Joseph Murphy

June 11, 2007

Sister Dorothy Emig

May 24, 2007

Sister Frances Bernadette Dolan

May 24, 2007

Sister Pierre Madeleine Kiernan

May 19, 2007

Sister Rita Eileen Cavanagh

May 17, 2007

Sister Leonore Bauer

May 12. 2007

Sister Helen Christi Matsinger

May 10, 2007

Sister Annmarie Regis Ferry

April 29, 2007

Sister Mary Aquin OÕKeefe

April 24, 2007

Sister Letitia McBride

April 5, 2007

Sister Ann Edward Bennis

March 5, 2007

Sister Catharine T. Fee

March 2, 2007

Sister Margaret Ann Rothwell

February 5, 2007

Sister Rose Veronica Kotzman

February 4, 2007

Sister Margaret Rosarii Queenan

January 22, 2007

 

 

2006

 

Sister Isabel Friel (Sister Joseph Isabel)

November 23, 2006

Sister Agnes Imelda Driscoll

November 8, 2006

Sister Elizabeth Mary Krimm

November 1, 2006

Sister Anne Horan (Sister Saint Philomene)

October 29, 2006

Sister Rose Therese Ormsby

October 6, 2006

Sister Kathleen McDonough

September 29, 2006

Sister Rose Patricia Hannon

September 26, 2006

Sister Mary Charles Bradley

September 15, 2006

Sister M. Theresa Connor (S. Martin Therese)

August 26, 2006

Sister Agnes Celeste Middleton

August 18, 2006

Sister Gertrude Bernadette Smith

August 16, 2006

Sister Jane Teresa McDonnell

August 11, 2006

Sister Jane Veronica Walsh

August 2, 2006

Sister Ann Christopher Carey

July 21, 2006

Sister Catherine Brennan (S. Saint Johanna)

July 17, 2006

Sister Caroline Poot

July 14, 2006

Sister Alice Rose Schilling

June 24, 2006

Sister Irma Catharine Leicht

May 27, 2006

Sister Teresa Hassett (S. Daniel Teresa)

May 19, 2006

Sister Mary Joseph Walsh

April 24, 2006

Sister Sally Daly (S. Michael Denise)

April 12, 2006

Sister Paul Anthony Kronberger

April 5, 2006

Sister St. Colette Grier

April 2, 2006

Sister Ann Ignatius Wagaman

April 1, 2006

Sister Kotska Brady

March 25, 2006

Sister Mary A. Gillespie (S. Thomas Catherine)

March 24, 2006

Sister Patricia Ann Brennan (S. Robert Loretta)

March 6 , 2006

Sister Mary Audrey OÕConnor

March 5 , 2006

Sister Elizabeth A. Daley

February 22 , 2006

Sister Catherine Lengle (S. James Laboure)

February 22 , 2006

Sister Marie Antoinette Jeffers

February 13 , 2006

Sister Consolata Currie

February 7 , 2006

Sister Joan Miriam Mullin

February 4 , 2006

Sister Leah Marlene Jones (S. Mary Eunice)

January 28 , 2006

Sister Jane Immaculate Matsinger

January 21 , 2006

Sister Grace Agatha Rogers

January 15 , 2006

Sister Francis Daniel Brady

January 11, 2006

Sister Margaret OÕDonnell

January 11 , 2006

Sister Helen Veronica McKenna

January 6, 2006

 

 

 

 

 

Sister Helen Veronica McKenna, SSJ      

Sister Helen Veronica (Mary F. McKenna) 87, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 69 years, died on January 6, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Joseph Villa on January 11, 2006. 

 

Sister Helen was born in Philadelphia, PA and her early education was in parochial schools there. She graduated from John W. Hallahan High School, Philadelphia, received a bachelorÕs degree from Chestnut Hill College, a masterÕs degree from The Catholic University of America, and a doctorate from Fordham University.

 

Early in her apostolic life, Sister Helen ministered in elementary and secondary schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the Diocese of Camden.  Later and for nearly forty years, Sister Helen served at Chestnut Hill College as a professor, Academic Dean, and as a volunteer. During her time at Chestnut Hill, she witnessed significant events and major changes. 

 

In 1997, Sister became a resident of St. Joseph Villa. In an interview with her while she was a resident at the Villa, she shared that as a child, she wanted to be an altar server and could not understand why this was not possible.  She decided that it had something to do with carrying the heavy books; it never dawned on her then that it was because of gender. Since she could not be ordained a Catholic priest, Sister Helen decided to enter the Sisters of Saint Joseph as a second choice. She joined her sister and good friend, the late S. Pierre Marie, in the congregation in 1937.

 

At her funeral, her friend S. Mary Helen Kashuba shared with those present ÒSister Helen Veronica always knew when it was time to move on, and she did it graciously and without a fuss. É In my conversations with her in the past few months preceding her sudden death, I knew that it was time to move on for one final step. Once again, she moved quietly and graciously to a new and certainly better life, where she now sees what eye has not seen, the glory of God bright as the noonday sun.Ó 

 

 

Sister Francis Daniel Brady, SSJ  

Sister Francis Daniel (Catherine Brady) 95, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 75 years, died on January 11, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on January 16, 2006.

 

Sister Francis, one of eight children, was born in Philadelphia, where she attended parochial schools before entering the Congregation in 1930 from St. MichaelÕs Parish in Philadelphia. She received a bachelorÕs degree in education from Villanova University.

 

For more than 60 years, Sister ministered in elementary schools in the Archdioceses of Newark Philadelphia and Washington DC as well as in the Diocese of Camden.   ÒChildren always added to the joy of my dayÓ, said Sister Francis, and she dedicated her entire years of ministry to teaching elementary school students, primarily those in the middle grades.  In later years, she served as school secretary, receptionist and as an aide to the school nurse. Upon her retirement, Sister served the members of her local community as a convent helper before moving to St. Joseph Villa in 2000.

 

If education was her primary ministry and love, shopping was a favorite avocation. For Sister Francis, one of the benefits of being missioned at St. Callistus in Philadelphia was its proximity to 69th Street where she could window-shop and enjoy her favorite ice cream! While a resident at the Villa, Sister Francis still liked to dress up, go shopping and eat out with friends. 

 

When asked what advice she would give to new members of the Congregation, she said:

ÒGod loves all of us and keeps us daily in His loving care. Try not

to fret or worry. Seek advice from your mentors; they are always

glad to help you. Be not timid about asking; we were all young once

and we all want to learn the best way to use our talentsÓ

 

What made her words so powerful was the fact that she had lived them so many years with fidelity and grace.

 

 

Sister Margaret OÕDonnell, SSJ    

Sister Margaret OÕ Donnell (formerly Sister Flavian) 90, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 72 years died on January 11, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA.  A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on January 18, 2006.

 

Sister Margaret lived most of her young life in Bayonne, NJ where she met the Sisters of Saint Joseph at St. MaryÕs Grammar School and continued her education with them at Holy Family Academy, Bayonne. Soon after graduation in 1934, Margaret entered the congregation. In preparation for her ministry of education, Sister Margaret received a B.S. in education from Villanova University.

 

For 46 years, Sister Margaret taught students in elementary schools and learning centers in the Archdioceses of Newark and Philadelphia, as well as in the Diocese of Harrisburg. She loved working with children and she continued to do so until later in life when she became a local community helper in her beloved Bayonne, her Camelot.

 

S. Margaret learned about the importance of prayer from her mother. Her mother believed in the power of prayer and once journeyed to the Shrine of St. Anne de Beaupre for the sole purpose of asking God to have one of her girls enter the Sisters of Saint Joseph.  God heard her prayer and called not one but two of her daughters, Margaret and Betty, to the community! Betty followed Margaret into the community and became Sister Helena.

 

While a resident at St. Joseph Villa, S. Margaret was asked what advice she would offer to the younger members of the congregation. Her response was quite simple, ÒIÕd tell them to always be prepared for the given work at hand, and constantly offer to do for others.Ó That was how she desired to live her own life. 

 

S. Margaret OÕ Donnell was a no-fuss, private person who lived her life with humility and great-heartedness- a gift to her family, her friends and her community and a model for us all. 

 

 

Sister Grace Agatha Rogers, SSJ   

Sister Grace Agatha (Marie Elizabeth Rogers) 89, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 70 years died at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA on January 15, 2006. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on January 19, 2006.

 

The daughter of Irish immigrants, Sister Grace was born in Philadelphia where she attended St. Francis of Assisi School and graduated from John W. Hallahan High School, Philadelphia, before entering the Sisters of Saint Joseph in 1935. Sister Grace received a B.S. from Villanova University and M.A. in Educational Administration from Seton Hall University.

 

Throughout her life, it was characteristic of her self-effacing and humble posture to enhance the gifts and goodness of others rather than her own.

In her over 60 years in active ministry, Sister Grace served thoroughly and graciously in a variety of ministries: teacher, principal, assistant librarian, office helper, healthcare provider, supervisor, academic and congregational leader, and convent helper for her local community. For more than fifty years Sister Grace ministered in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and spent a short time serving in the Archdiocese of Newark.

 

In 1998, Sister Grace moved to the Villa as a resident where she spent her days visiting other residents and faithfully attending to many sisters and friends. Sister Patricia Kelly, Congregational President,  noted at her funeral,  that Ò For seventy years, the Sisters of Saint Joseph, along with all whom Sister Grace loved and served were blessed with the presence of a woman religious ,quietly receptive and responsive to every experience GodÕs loving will unwrapped for her.Ó

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sister Jane Immaculate Matsinger,SSJ   

Sister Jane Immaculate (Marie E. Matsinger) 86, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 69 years, died on January 21, 2006 at the Woods Rehabilitation Center, Norristown, PA.  Sister JaneÕs funeral liturgy was celebrated on January 25,2006  at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA.

 

Sister Jane grew up in Corpus Christi Parish, Philadelphia. Her association with the Sisters of Saint Joseph who taught her at Corpus Christi School and Holy Souls Commercial influenced her in her vocation. Prior to entering the Congregation in 1937, Jane worked as a secretary for the WPA for two years. Sister Jane received a B.S. in Elementary Education from Chestnut Hill College.

 

The education of children was her primary ministry focus for more than forty years in the Archdioceses of Newark, Philadelphia and Washington, DC and the Dioceses of Harrisburg and Trenton.  Just prior to SisterÕs death, a former student from her first mission called the Villa to inquire about Sister JaneÕs health.  During that telephone call, the student told how she loved Sister and remembered her treating her and the children so kindly.

Immediately before becoming a resident at St. Joseph Villa in 2001, Sister Jane enjoyed living in an active senior house, St. Bartholomew in Philadelphia, from which she drove to the Villa each day to chauffer the sister residents to doctorsÕ appointments. 

 

Sister Jane was an outgoing, friendly person who enjoyed conversation, the company of other sisters and sharing stories with others at the Villa. During her latter years, she especially appreciated being at Saint Joseph Villa with her dear sister, Sister Helen Christi, who was so faithful to her.

 

 

Sister Leah Marlene Jones, SSJ     

Sister Leah Marlene Jones (formerly Sister Mary Eunice) 67, a beloved member of  the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 49 years died at Delaware County Hospital, Drexel Hill, PA on January 28, 2006.  A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on February 1, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA.

 

Born in Scranton, PA, Sister Leah attended grammar and high schools in Newark, NJ at St. Peter School and Our Lady of Good Counsel High School, Three years before her entrance into the Sisters of Saint Joseph in 1957, Leah was initiated into the Catholic faith community. Leah had the unique privilege of sponsoring her father at his baptism a short time later.

 

After attending Montclair State, Sister Leah received her B.S. in Elementary Education from Chestnut Hill College and her M.A. in Secondary Science from Villanova University. Sister Leah was well prepared to become the teacher that she wanted to be. Her preparation, study and enrichment choices for the teaching of secondary science were abundant.   An administrator wrote of her: ÒShe challenges her students; creates a healthy atmosphere; is positive with her students—and I do not believe that anyone in our school is better prepared on a daily basis.Ó Her commitment to Catholic education led her to teach on the elementary and secondary levels for more than forty-five years in the Archdioceses of Newark and Philadelphia as well as in the Dioceses of Allentown and Wilmington.

 

At her funeral liturgy, Sister Pat Kelly offered this prayerful farewell to Sister Leah: ÒYou have dismissed your servant, Leah, in peace, O God. We thank you for her life among us. May she see your glory and unfold the beauty of your love always.Ó

 

 

Sister Joan Miriam Mullin, SSJ    

Sister Joan Miriam (Marie Dolores Mullin) 75, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 56 years died on February 4, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA.   A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on February 8, 2006.

 

Born on Christmas Day, Sister Joan was one of four Mullin children raised in Southwest Philadelphia. Sister attended Transfiguration School and West Catholic High School before entering the Sisters of Saint Joseph in 1950. Chestnut Hill College awarded her a bachelorÕs degree in Elementary Education.

 

For more than 40 years, Sister Joan served as an elementary teacher and school librarian in the Archdioceses of Newark and Philadelphia and in the Diocese of Harrisburg. Sister knew the joy of good relationships with her students.  Little ones desired her attention and one group of older students protested when Sister was transferred! At different points, she coached a

school basketball team and even practiced roller-skating in the evening so that she could join the skaters on Saturday afternoons in the school auditorium! When her health declined, Sister Joan moved from an active senior house at St. BartholomewÕs in Philadelphia to become a resident at St. Joseph Villa in 1999.

                                                                                                                                                                   

Sister JoanÕs seven-year Villa experience was graced. She described herself changing from being reluctant about being at the Villa, to being content with things, and finally, to loving the Villa. Sister Joan took advantage of the gift of time and learned to use the computer in order to write thank you notes and make cards for her family.   At the Villa, Sister Joan continued her joyful spirit and her interest in new things. Her wants were simple. What made this self-declared introvert happy?  She appreciated it when people smiled at her. Sister Joan rewarded the giver with a broad smile of her own!

 

Sister Joan bore her illness with a holy and humble generosity of spirit. She now rests in the arms of a loving God who probably welcomed her home with a huge smile she so enjoyed receiving.

 

Sister Consolata Currie, SSJ         

Sister Consolata (Rita M. Currie) 90, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 74 years died on February 7, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA.  A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on February 13, 2006.

 

Sister Consolata was born and raised in Philadelphia and attended parochial schools there. SisterÕs mother, Ida, was a Quaker when she married her husband and she practiced her religion very faithfully. One day, Mrs. Currie called her family together to tell them that she wanted the family to be one and that she had begun to take instructions to become a member of the Catholic faith community.  One of SisterÕs most vivid memories of her childhood was the day that her mother was received into the church!

 

Drawn to the Sisters of Saint Joseph who taught her, Sister Consolata entered the congregation from St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Germantown in September 1932. Sister received her B.S. in Elementary Education from Chestnut Hill College and an M.S.  in Library Science from The Catholic University of America.

 

For the entire 64 years of her active ministry life, Sister Consolata served the children of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. What a gift she was to them! A lover of music, Sister began her ministry as a piano teacher. Eventually she moved into her role as a classroom teacher, a vocation that she came to love. She was a thorough and conscientious teacher who encouraged her students to become self-disciplined and critical thinkers.  In her later years in education, she taught small groups of students honors mathematics.  In 1998, Sister Consolata became a resident at St. Joseph Villa.

 

During her long life, Sister lived through many changes in our world, in the church and in the Sisters of Saint Joseph.  She humbly noted, ÒI have tried to accept any changes approved by the Church and our community.Ó She lived her life that way.  In 1932, her pastor recognized something special in her when he wrote, ÒMiss Rita M. Currie is very anxious to become a sister and I can recommend her most highly to your good care, feeling certain that she will be a great asset to whatever sisterhood she may belong.Ó The Sisters of Saint Joseph are grateful that she chose them!

 

Sister Marie Antoinette Jeffers, SSJ        

Sister Marie Antoinette (Catherine M. Jeffers) 90, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 71 years, died on February 13, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on February 17, 2006. 

 

The oldest child of Irish immigrants, Sister Antoinette was born in Philadelphia where she attended St. Columba and St. Francis of Assisi elementary schools and St. Francis of Assisi Commercial School before entering the Congregation in 1935. Sister Antoinette received a B.S. in Education from Villanova University.

 

Because she loved children, Sister Antoinette spent almost 60 years, her entire time in active ministry, in the service of elementary schoolchildren in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and in the dioceses of Allentown, Camden, Harrisburg and Wilmington. She had a tender spot for fourth graders, her favorite grade to teach, and took great pride in their learning the times tables before the end of the year.

 

In 1994, when it was time for her to retire, Sister Antoinette became a resident at St. Joseph Villa where she spent a great deal of time visiting the other sisters there.  She loved to talk and it was not easy to end a conversation with her but she was always interested in what the other sisters were thinking and feeling. Possessing a grateful spirit, she was appreciative for even the smallest kindness that was extended to her at the Villa. 

 

Sister Antoinette maintained a positive spirit and gracious manner until God called this woman with a queenly name home on February 13. 

 

 

Sister Elizabeth A. Daley, SSJ      

Sister Elizabeth A. Daley (formerly Sister Elizabeth James) 71, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 44 years, died on February 22, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on February 24, 2006.

 

Sister Elizabeth was born and raised in Heckschersville, PA. She attended St. Kieran Elementary School there and Pottsville Catholic High School before entering the Congregation in 1961 at the age of 27.  Sister received a B. S. degree in Elementary Education from Chestnut Hill College.

 

In ministry, Sister Elizabeth served in several different positions, elementary school teacher, classroom assistant and social worker, in the Archdioceses of Baltimore, Newark and Philadelphia, as well as in the dioceses of Allentown, and Metuchen.   For her, teaching was the most fulfilling ministry. In exit interviews with graduating eighth graders, the students often named Sister Elizabeth as their favorite teacher and suggested that other teachers could learn from her methods.

 

Though she had a quiet demeanor, Sister Elizabeth had a spirit of adventure and once drove cross-country, sleeping in a tent and experiencing lightning storms, tumbleweeds, animals and all the things that came with roughing it. She liked to fish and was very successful in snaring a catch.  Bingo was a favorite pastime and often this seventh child of a seventh child won!

 

In 1999, Sister Elizabeth received the news that she had Alzheimer Õs disease.  At that time, her response wasÓ Well, itÕs the will of God.Ó Throughout her seven-year illness, she was the beneficiary of much love and attention from her friends, members of her local community at St. Ambrose, Old Bridge, and her dear family members. That attention and faithful care continued when she became a resident of St. Joseph Villa in 2002.  On February 22, 2006, God called Sister Elizabeth to a new adventure and the promise of continued unconditional love.

 

 

Sister Catherine Lengle,SSJ  

Sister Catherine Lengle (formerly Sister James Laboure) 68, a beloved member of the Sisters of St. Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 50 years, died on February 22, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on February 27, 2006.

 

A native of Lebanon, PA, Kitty attended St. MaryÕs School there and was a graduate of Lebanon Catholic High School. Born on her motherÕs birthday, Kitty was a great gift to her parents and her family. She became a gift to the Sisters of Saint Joseph who welcomed her after her graduation.

 

With an enormous love for children, it was no surprise that Sister Catherine would be an excellent teacher and a competent principal.  She received an A.B. from Chestnut Hill College and an M.A. from the University of Delaware that enabled her to meet the needs of the children she encountered in elementary and secondary schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and in the Diocese of Harrisburg.  For five years, Sister Catherine taught students at the Catholic Mission, Liberia, West Africa.  When asked about her memory of Africa, her face lit up as she responded,Ó The people-the people were so beautiful just like the country. They were happy, friendly and full of gratitude for even the smallest thing.Ó Sister Catherine was an assistant in the Dream Catcher, the SSJ Literacy Project, and most recently served as a parish CCD coordinator.

 

Although Sister Catherine was an extremely simple person, there was depth and wisdom in her that was special. Sometimes that wisdom and depth evidenced itself in quiet conversation, faith sharing, or a moment of serious conversation. However, much of wisdom and good common sense was experienced over a cup of coffee in the kitchen while she chopped vegetables for a pot of homemade soup.

 

In recent years, Sister CatherineÕs increasing physical limitations seemed to be matched by an increasing ability to know what the important things in life are. Daily prayer, retreat, quiet and solitude were core parts of her life. These empowered her to be among GodÕs people in very ordinary situations with extraordinary love. It was fitting that she chose for her funeral a gospel hymn, His Eye is on the Sparrow. Now,  Sister Catherine too Òsings because sheÕs happy. She sings because sheÕs free.Ó

 

 

 

 

Sister Mary Audrey OÕConnor, SSJ                 

Sister Mary Audrey OÕConnor (Rita M. OÕConnor) 83, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill for 66 years, died on March 5, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on March 8, 2006.

 

Born in Bridgeport, PA, Sister attended St. Matthew Elementary School and graduated from St. Matthew High School, both in Conshohocken, PA, before entering the congregation in 1940. Sister Mary Audrey received a B.A. from Chestnut Hill College and an M.A. from Columbia University.

 

In ministry, Sister Mary Audrey shared her gifts with those in the Archdioceses of Newark, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC as well as in the dioceses of Allentown and Trenton.   Sister had a very rich ministry experience and served in a variety of educational ministries including elementary and preschool teacher, tutor, diocesan Religion Coordinator for elementary schools, and diocesan Director of Elementary and Early Childhood. As she reflected back on her years in active ministry, Sister shared, ÒThere were so many wonderful adults from so many areas whom I encountered, so many little children-and not so little-who helped to keep me young-each one bringing joy into my life!Ó

 

In 2001, Sister Mary Audrey decided to go to St. Joseph Villa where she made herself responsible for several small but important tasks. She gave time to being a receptionist and was very faithful to visiting the sisters who were unable to leave their rooms.  She also enjoyed spending five years with her little sister and best friend, Sister Daniel Margaret.

 

While a resident at the Villa, Sister was asked what advice she would offer to newer members of the congregation, Sister stated, ÒI would tell them to look on each day as a journey of faith. My experiences have led me far, but as I traveled along in faith, I have been strengthened, graced and rewarded.Ó Sister Mary Audrey now enjoys her eternal reward.

 

 

Sister Patricia Ann Brennan, SSJ  

Sister Patricia Ann Brennan (formerly Sister Robert Loretta), 71, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 53 years, died on March 6, 2006 in Naples , Florida. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA on March 13, 2006.

 

A native of Heckschersville, PA, Sister Patricia entered the congregation from St. PatrickÕs Parish, Pottsville, PA.  There, she attended St. PatrickÕs Elementary School and Pottsville Catholic High School. Sister Patricia earned a B.A. degree from Chestnut Hill College.

 

Early in her ministry life, Sister Patricia taught elementary and high school students in the Archdioceses of Newark and Philadelphia and in the dioceses of Allentown and Harrisburg.  She then felt drawn to move into retreat work, which she expected to be nice and calm. Instead, she moved to where she thought that God was calling her to serve. Her life became a bit more messy and chaotic as she began shelters for homeless women and children. She established homes for the elderly, and for women and children.  Sister Patricia advocated for the poor and raised money for city shelters and soup kitchens.  Later, her pastoral work included visiting the sick in their homes and in hospitals.  From her life, we learn about being open to the transforming power of GodÕs grace, which is often full of surprises and takes us where we least expect to go. Illness forced Sister Patricia to retire in 2005.

 

In the final stages of her illness, Sister Patricia continued to live with a heart open to the voice of her God, and she was comforted by this relationship. In the Scripture reading on the day that she died, it was so appropriate that Jesus talks about final judgment. ÒCome you have my fatherÕs blessing; inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world, for I was hungry and you gave me food, thirsty and you gave me to drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, ill and you visited me.  I assure you that as often as you did this to the least of my brothers and sisters you did it for me.Ó  She taught us well.

 

 

Sister Mary A. Gillespie, SSJ                 

Sister Mary A. Gillespie (formerly Sister Thomas Catherine) 83, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 64 years, died on March 24, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA.  A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on March 28, 2006.

 

One of ten children of Irish immigrants from Donegall, Sister Mary was born in Philadelphia, where she attended parochial schools. She graduated from John W. Hallahan High School in 1940.  Though she felt called to religious life, the death of her mother, and the ominous world situation delayed her entrance into the Sisters of Saint Joseph until September of 1941. Subsequently, Sister Mary received a B.S. from Chestnut Hill College and an M.A. from Kutztown University.

 

For more than 60 years, Sister MaryÕs ministries introduced her to many diverse people in many different geographic locations.  As an elementary school teacher and principal, she served in the Archdioceses of Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC in addition to ministering in the dioceses of Arlington and Harrisburg. When the principal at her first school heard that she had six brothers, she immediately assigned Sister Mary to a first grade class of nearly 100 boys!  She survived and so did they. Sister Mary also spent six summers working with postulants and novices at Fontbonne Hall. Again, she dealt with large numbers well.  In her later years, she served as a school librarian before becoming a resident of St. Joseph Villa in 2003.

 

Sister Mary had a friendly manner and a contagious laugh that endeared her to her family, her students, to children and adults, and to her sisters in community. Her welcoming manner helped to put others at ease and enabled her to draw forth the best in them. She spent hours in prayer for so many intentions. Her last days were spent reminding God through her continuous prayers to Jesus that she was ready, ready to go home. God took her home on March 24. 

 

 

Sister Kotska Brady, SSJ     

Sister Kotska Brady (Helen Marie Brady) 93, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 73 years, died on March 25, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on March 30, 2006.

 

Born in Baltimore, MD, Sister Kotska completed her elementary and secondary school education at the Institute of Notre Dame in Baltimore.  In 1932, she boarded a train to Philadelphia and began her life as a Sister of Saint Joseph. She continued her academic life and received a B.S. in Elementary Education from Chestnut Hill College and a M.A. in Religious Studies from St. Charles Seminary.

 

For 59 years, Sister Kotska served as a dedicated and caring educator in the Archdioceses of Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington, DC and in the dioceses of Allentown, Camden, Harrisburg and Wilmington teaching both elementary and secondary students.  In her own words,Ó Teaching was a fulfilling ministry because I was able to live my desire to be kind and helpful, in this instance to the students.Ó 

 

Later in her life, she returned to her beloved Baltimore area and became Òthe sister in charge of attendanceÓ. Her principal later wrote in tribute,

Ó You have given admirable service as a model Christian educator, a woman of principle, skill, energy, organization and compassion.Ó In her attendance office position, she was beloved by parents who trusted her judgments and students who tried to get away with things but were delighted when she caught them! Into her eighties, she was open to change and involved in many activities. She might be found at an evening prayer service to honor slain Salvadorian churchwomen or cheering on the school basketball team at a tournament. She became a resident of St. Joseph Villa in 1996.

 

On the feast of the Annunciation, Sister Kotska Brady began another leg of her journey, the reward for a life lived in attentiveness to GodÕs commandment to choose life and to connect in love.  

 

 

 

 

 

Sister Ann Ignatius Wagaman, SS J       

Sister Ann Ignatius (Gladys Wagaman) 93, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 74 years, died on April 1, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on April 4, 2006.

 

Born in McSherrystown, PA, Sister Ann attended elementary and secondary school at St. MaryÕs School there before entering the congregation. In support of her application to the congregation, her pastor wrote, ÒGladys M. Wagaman is known to me as a young lady of excellent character. She was always faithful in the performance of her religious duties and was an excellent student while in high school.Ó  How blessed the congregation was to have her leave her beloved McSherrystown and journey to Chestnut Hill! 

 

Sister Ann received a bachelorÕs degree from Chestnut Hill College that prepared her for her life long ministry as an educator. For more than 60 years, Sister taught elementary school students in the Archdioceses of Philadelphia and Washington, DC and in the Diocese of Harrisburg.  Her many years in active ministry were dedicated to teaching all types of students, those who learned quickly and those who needed to learn differently because of physical and mental handicaps. She was a beloved teacher and her students remembered her with gratitude and described her as kind, firm, challenging and patient.

 

In 1996, Sister Ann became a resident of Saint Joseph Villa where she continued to pray for the intentions of all those whom she loved, especially for those in her beloved McSherrystown, a place that she described as Òa neighborhood full of love and respect for one another and all of earth.Ó  On April 1, 2006, Sister Ann Ignatius found a new neighborhood of love where for sure Òshe will see the face of God face to face.Ó (Revelations 22)

 

 

Sister St. Colette Grier, SSJ  

Sister St. Colette (Anna Louise Grier) 92, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 73 years, died on April 2, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA.  A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on April 6, 2006.

 

Born in Philadelphia, Anna and her family lived in North Philadelphia and then moved to St. Francis deSales Parish in the southwest section of the city where she completed elementary school.  Her first attraction to religious life occurred while she was still in grade school but it was while at West Catholic High School that she gave it serious thought.  She felt called; but where- the Sisters of Saint Joseph or the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart? At one point she thought:ÓIf I step on the lines, I will enter the IHMÕs , but if I step on the spaces, IÕll enter the SSJÕs.  She later said, ÒI believe that I made myself step on the spaces.Ó

 

On her reception day, Anna received the name Sister St. Colette. Her fatherÕs aunt had been Mother Colette, SSJ and the family was delighted with her new name! Her dad had a great love for the Sisters of St. Joseph who raised him at St. JohnÕs Orphanage. It was ironic that by profession he was a carpenter and he died on March 19, the Feast of Saint Joseph. So many connections!

 

Sister St. Colette received an A. B. from Chestnut Hill College and an M.A. from Villanova University. During her many years of ministry, Sister taught mathematics to elementary and secondary students in the Archdioceses of Newark, Philadelphia and Washington, DC and Diocese of Trenton. When poor health caused her to stop teaching, she assumed responsibility for a school bookstore and turned it into a gift shop!

 

In 1992, Sister St. Colette requested permission to move to the Villa. While there, she was determined to remain active, always planning what to do next. In her words, ÒWe all make our own happiness.Ó  It was her great faith in our loving God and devotion to prayer that enabled her to say before she died, ÒI have never been unhappyÓ.  What a wonderful, full life Sister St. Colette  enjoyed!

 

 

Sister Paul Anthony Kronberger, SSJ     

Sister Paul Anthony (Mary Kronberger) 98, a beloved member of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, Chestnut Hill, for 77 years, died on April 5, 2006 at St. Joseph Villa, Flourtown, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated there on April 7, 2006

 

Born in Philadelphia, Sister PaulÕs father died when she was very young.  One of six children, she went to live for a while at Catholic Home where she met the Sisters of Saint Joseph for the first time.  Later she attended John W. Hallahan High School in Philadelphia.  Before entering the congregation at 22, Sister Paul worked as a stenographer at a company that was close to St. Agnes Church that housed a shrine to St. Anthony. There she prayed every day on her lunch hour and was inspired to enter religious life.  It was fitting that she received the name Anthony as part of her religious name!

 

Sister Paul Anthony received a B. S. degree in Elementary Education from Chestnut Hill College. For most of her life, Sister Paul taught and tutored young children in the Archdioceses of Newark and Philadelphia and in the dioceses of Arlington, Camden, Harrisburg, and Trenton. For a nine-year period, Sister Paul was a member of the staff that oversaw the formation of congregational postulants at Fontbonne Hall. Sister Paul served as the infirmarian and even after many years, she greeted former postulants by name. No easy task when hundreds passed through her life at that time!  After that, Sister became a Technical Aide at St. Joseph Villa before becoming a resident there in 1992.

 

In her own words, Sister Paul described her life as one that had been richly blessed and mostly prosaic. She lived a simple life extraordinarily well.  Sister PaulÕs friends on the fourth floor of the Villa held her in great esteem for her goodness and kindness to everyone.  Perhaps God welcomed her on April 5 with words similar to these: ÒWelcome home, my chosen one in whom I delight. Come and enjoy the place that I have prepared for you.Ó