Sisters of Saint Joseph of Philadelphia Welcome Newly Professed

Sister Meaghan V. Patterson

Sisters of Saint Joseph of Philadelphia, Associates, family, friends and the Saint Martin de Porres Choir gathered in Mount Saint Joseph Convent Chapel in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia, PA on Sunday, October 16, 2011 as Sister Meaghan V. Patterson, age 33, professed her perpetual vows as a Sister of Saint Joseph. Meaghan was welcomed into full membership with the congregation by Sister Anne Myers, Congregational President and Sister Frances Hart, Formation Director.

Meaghan’s journey began eight years ago as an inquirer, then as a candidate, a novice, as an initially professed sister (2007) and culminated October 16, 2011 with sacred Rite of Perpetual Profession.

Sister Meaghan is Vice-Principal at Saint Martin de Porres School in North Philadelphia. Urban education has become a passion in her life, and she values the lessons she learns there daily. As evidence of this passion, Sister Meghan is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Multicultural Education at Eastern University in St. Davids, PA.

The liturgy was filled with unique touches that had special meaning to Sister Meaghan. One of those “touches” was her choice of Reverend Ed Hallinan, as the priest to preside at the liturgy. Fr. Hallinan of St. John Chrysostom in Wallingford, Pennsylvania served at Saint Martin de Porres, for 14 years. He met Sister Meaghan when she began her work at the parish school.  “In 29 years of ministry, this is my first experience witnessing perpetual profession,” said Fr. Hallinan. “The occasion is even more special because I knew Meaghan during her formation.” Other touches included the inspiring Saint Martin de Porres choir and heartwarming remembrances of her family members who have passed away.

Sister Meaghan is from Northeast Philadelphia, where she attended Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Elementary School. She is a graduate of Cardinal Dougherty High School, earned her bachelor’s degree in English from Chestnut Hill College, and is working toward her master’s degree in Multicultural Education from Eastern University.