Throughout the year, Catholic Sisters serve quietly and faithfully — accompanying the poor and immigrants, educating children, advocating for justice, caring for the sick, deepening spiritual life, empowering women and fostering communities of peace and hope.
During Catholic Sisters Week, we pause to shine a light on these women whose ministries have shaped our parishes, schools, hospitals and neighborhoods — including countless lives across the Diocese of Erie.
This year’s theme, Stories of Hope and Heart, celebrates the compassion, resilience and enduring witness of Catholic Sisters.
Many throughout our diocese have been taught by, ministered with or spiritually guided by women religious. Their presence has left a lasting imprint of faith, courage and care.
Below are stories from across the Diocese of Erie that reflect the hope and heart of Catholic Sisters. Do you have a story to share? Click here to submit your story using the form provided.
"Perhaps, my love of music and good liturgical music came from my piano teacher, Sr. Estelle Marie Brazier, OSB. She made my lessons fun and interesting. I went to many symphonic concerts with Sr. Estelle and my parents, who were always willing to drive and attend. I even attended The National Catholic Music Teacher's conference in New York City when I was in seventh grade. When I decided not to become a music major, I do believe that she was a bit disappointed. I attended a Benedictine service at Mount Saint Benedict when she passed. Today, I certainly believe that good liturgical music is very important to my spirituality and I find great joy singing in a church choir. Many thanks to Sister Estelle and my parents of course."
— Elizabeth Trocki
"From grade school to high school and into college I was blessed to be taught by the Sisters of St. Joseph. In my present position I have the honor of working with all communities of Sisters — the Mercy's, the Benedictines, the Spiritual Family the Work, the Franciscans, and countless others. Each group has influenced my life for the better as I witness their holiness, their kindness, generosity, professionalism and commitment to the Gospel. We are so fortunate to have them among us."
— Nancy Fischer, SSJ
"When I was discharged from the military in 2010, my life was in shambles. I was struggling with PTSD from combat and sexual trauma and was misusing alcohol to cope. It was at this point I came to know Sister Ann Muczynski. She started out as a mentor for me during my internship, but then became a dear friend. She’s been by my side during some of the lowest points of my life, including times of suicidal ideation. I quite possibly would not be alive today, if not for the love, grace, and friendship of Sister Ann."
— Max Knoll
"Sister Pat impacted our lives when we made Erie, Pa. our home in 2004. We moved here from the Maryland/D.C. area with our two young sons. Sister Pat was an amazing teacher who supported our sons when we came to Erie. The programs for young ones at Camp Glinodo were amazing but most of all Sister Pat embraced my children and family with open arms and a heart of gold. My oldest son is on the autism spectrum and he was treated like her own child. I will never forget how much that made us feel."
— Katherine Lange
"I was a young school student in first and second grade in the city of Pittsburgh. I spent 7.5 years at Catholic Elementary School. The Ursuline Sisters taught at my school, Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament (OLMBS). My second grade teacher, Sister Therese, was a gentle, caring and kind presence in my life at a time when my family life was not great. That introduction, and their presence carried with me to this very day. All sisters, no matter what group or name, contributed to everything good in our world and continue to do so. I am so grateful and thankful for their presence in my life."
— Rose Strazisar
"My family and I accepted an invitation from Sr. Marian and Sr. Tina of the Rural Catholic Ministry in the Oil City Deanery to join them on a mission trip to Tanzania last year. The mission of delivering water filters to mothers in a Maasai village was just a small part of the total experience led by these inspiring happy-hearted, and prayerful sisters. As Sr. Marian had taught at a monastery for several years in Tanzania the trip also became a reunion of sorts with introductions to many of her former coworkers, students, and friends. Everyone we met was very welcoming to our small group and we made memories to last a lifetime. Many thanks to both of the sisters for sharing their time and experience with us. We are very blessed to know both of them and call them lifetime friends! We have hope for clean water for them!"
— Vicki Stec
"I can name one sister but St. Benedict played a huge part in my life. I left an abusive marriage. My first job was at Erie Dawn in the paid internship through the welfare office. I was able to get my GED. I regained confidence from the sisters and St. Bens. I now manage Our Neighbors Place the overflow shelter though EUMA."
— Heide Hiltabidel
"I was in high school and joined a summer work program. I joined late and did not have many options to choose from. Camp Glinodo was the option I chose. It was the best decision, Sr. Pat and Sr. Caroline, Shirley and everyone else helped me to become the person I am today. I worked there about 9 years, then I met my future husband and moved away. Now I am a mother of 2, a wife and I work with my children's school district as a lunch lady using the knowledge they taught me all those years ago in the camp kitchen. I think of them often and I am so thankful for them coming into my life."
— Lainie Grantman (Craven)
"I am a non-practicing person raised in a Catholic family. Until I met Sister Miriam Mashank, OSB, I had never encountered a religious person who was not judgmental — all of which had led to my disengagement with the church. Meeting and working with Benedictines has resulted in a total change in my view of the religious establishment."
— Elizabeth Kidd
"Sr. Tina and Sr. Marian are truly beautiful souls who have been an inspiration to the staff and students at St. Joseph School. The moment they walk through our doors, their light and joy are felt throughout the building. Our students and staff always look forward to their visits and are sad to see them go. Through their time with us, Sr. Tina and Sr. Marian have generously shared their hearts, their faith, and their mission work. By speaking about their experiences and outreach projects, they have helped our students better understand the importance of living the Works of Mercy and serving others with compassion. Their presence has been a true blessing to our school community."
— Betsy Ochs
"I want to remember the late Sr. Madeline Hahn, RSM, who taught me how to pray, sit still, and reflect. I would go to The House of Prayer in Sharon where Madeline would teach us how to pray with scripture."
— Linda Fusco, SSJ
"As a product of Catholic education my blessing was to attend Catholic schools. My elementary school education at Our Lady of Peace began with the Sisters of St. Joseph. They taught me prayer and appreciation. My leadership and commitment to service was in high school with the Benedictine Sisters. My friendships developed at St. Benedict Academy. I found my independence and voice. The Sisters encouraged me to advocate for others. I continued on to Gannon University. To wrap up my ministry and passion is with the Sisters of Mercy. I found my home, heart, and passion. I will forever be grateful for the Sisters of Mercy. The Mercy charisms and critical concerns helped me develope into a servant of the Lord. To embrace the poor, house the abused and those in sobriety is the greatest gift I could ever imagine. Smile, Pray, Be Kind Always."
— Jennie Hagerty
"Sister Linda Fusco was my son’s Advanced Math teacher for four years at Blessed Sacrament School. Sister Linda has been an impactful part of his education. She has taught him to never give up, to slow down and take his time, and to develop a love for Challenge 24. Sister’s dedication, infectious smile, and love for teaching truly live out the mission that the Sisters of St. Joseph have set out to do. When my youngest needed extra math help, I knew exactly who to call! My family holds Sister Linda close to our hearts. Her love for teaching and dedication to children is a treasure. May God continue to bless her and the rest of the Sisters."
— Christina Erven
"Sister Katherine Horan was my children’s principal at Blessed Sacrament School. She is insightful, strong, loving, and courageous, and she lives a life of service. She understood the balance needed to educate children. She created a safe and structured environment for students, families, and staff. Sister Katherine gave us the perfect Catholic school experience. Her heart and passion are deeply missed. She will always have a special place in our hearts."
— Christina Erven
"The Benedictine Sisters are a pillar of the Erie Community. Long before I witnessed this firsthand, I befriended two of the pillars within that community, Sister Mary Miller, OSB and Sister Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB. Years later, Mary Miller’s successor, Sister Valerie Luckey, OSB would call me to their ministry. More than 50 years after opening their doors to the plight of the poor, the stranger, the downtrodden, and the forgotten, Emmaus Soup Kitchen is a place where many helping hearts and hands converge. Our gardeners, bakers, serving teams, and donors provide hope to hundreds. As we break bread together we break down the barriers that seek to divide us. Led by the Benedictines, we aspire to welcome all as Christ does. I am honored with this vocation and eternally grateful to walk alongside these Sisters and amongst all of God’s people at Emmaus Ministries. Thank you, Sisters!"
— Carly DiFuccia
"As the Director of a small Mercy Ministry that offers services to support the independence of older adults, I am challenged by limited human and financial resources. Our Erie Sisters of Mercy share their time, working at our center to fill staffing gaps, volunteer at fundraising events, and serve on our Board. The sisters visit to offer me guidance, prayer, and discussion, which gives me hope for the sustainability of our ministry. Sr. Mary Felice Duska, RSM has particularly influenced me by recognizing that I am passionate about my ministry, and she shares that love with me. She can read my face and know if I'm having difficulties and she always has the exact words needed to give me the strength and wisdom to move forward. I treasure her love, patience, and kindness. By Sr. Felice's example, I am inspired and compelled to demonstrate kindness, patience, and understanding to others."
— Dina Scribner
"Throughout my life, I have been influenced by Catholic Sisters. They educated me as a student and have been a Christian witness throughout my adult life. The Sisters of Saint Francis at Holy Family School instructed us on the Franciscan Way of “peace, and all good.” I remember Sister James Francis, a Sister of St. Joseph who taught me at Prep, would purposefully include African American authors in our literature class so that all students felt included. The Mercy and Benedictine Sisters who taught me at Mercyhurst University challenged me to see the face of God in the poor, the marginalized, and the oppressed. They encouraged an adult faith that was not confined to a church building, but to be lived in caring for each other and caring for our environment. God bless the Catholic Sisters! May their example inspire us to live better lives of kindness and compassion."
— Bob Merski
"As a young mother, the Benedictine Sisters helped me find jobs to support my family and connect me with affordable childcare. Sisters of St. Joseph helped me to recognize the worth of others, inviting me to volunteer in their ministries, giving me a profound perspective of poverty and homelessness. While working at Mercyhurst University, I encountered the Sisters of Mercy. They helped me develop professionally, grow spiritually and come into a full awareness of how I can serve God."
— Michelle Weaton
"On social justice, the sisters still lead by example. I’ve stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Sister Moira Sullivan to protest school shootings, and I’ve prayed the rosary with women religious for immigrants and refugees. The sisters helped me to find my voice, to listen to others, to use words for the common good, and to grow as a writer."
— Liz Allen
"When I participate in vigils for peace and justice in the city, I look around the circle of faces and see reflected the women that raised me intellectually and spiritually, who showed me the importance of women’s leadership, and challenge me still to exercise that leadership for a better world."
— Alice Edwards