In Loving Memory – Sr. Teresa Sweeney, OSF Dec. 13, 1930 – May 11, 2017
Sr. Teresa was a missionary, teacher, administrator, program innovator and General Minister during her 68 years as a Franciscan Sister of Allegany. Closest to her heart were the people of Brazil, to whom she ministered for 49 years.
Remembering Our Loved Ones Through Their Good Works
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
– Romans 8:28
Dear Friends,
I chose this reading as we prepare for All Souls’ Day on November 2 because I like the idea of honoring our loved ones by recalling the ways in which they served God. In verses 29-30, Paul goes on to say that God knew who he would make in the image of his Son, and he justifies and glorifies the ones he has called. On this holy day, we can celebrate the lives of those dearest to us through our memories of their love of others.
Sr. Teresa Marie Sweeney, OSF (pictured above) can be remembered for many things, but her love for the Brazilian people is especially remarkable. Although she taught in several schools in the U.S., as well as led the Congregation as the General Minister, most of her ministry was in Brazil. She was a teacher, a school and hospital administrator, and an area and regional leader.
One of her lasting accomplishments is her role in co-founding and leading the NACRI – Community Center Alliance. In 1992, the Franciscan Sisters collaborated with a local evangelical group to create this community center in Anápolis for 150 children and adolescents who are at risk of prostitution, drugs and crime. NACRI activities help the youth with their school work, teach arts and crafts, and provide other social services.
St. Elizabeth Mission Society has provided over $25,000 in funding for the NACRI through program and capital grants, as well as ongoing support of $250 each month. Support has included: food, school supplies, uniforms, religious education materials, art and sewing supplies, and building improvements.
A grant in January 2017 helped purchase musical equipment for the purpose of teaching God’s love to the youth who are at great personal and social risk. Program results have included a “new liveliness” for the music program, better moods because of the artistic impression of emotions and tensions, improved academic performance, and the ability to also reach their families.
A Mission Society grant purchased musical instruments and equipment for the NACRI as part of a spiritual program that motivates youth and brings them together with their families.
I send a special thank you to our generous donors for helping Sr. Teresa and our other Franciscan Sisters minister to the children of the NACRI, as well as to thousands of others who are poor in Jamaica, Brazil, Bolivia and the U.S.
Let us remember Sr. Teresa and all the souls of the departed on All Souls’ Day and throughout the month of November as Mass and prayers are offered at St. Elizabeth Motherhouse. We invite you to place your loved ones’ names on the form provided and return it to us. All the remembrances will be placed on the altar in the Chapel of the St. Elizabeth Motherhouse this November.
May God grant you comfort as we remember our loved ones,
Laura Whitford
President, St. Elizabeth Mission Society
Click HERE for the 2017 All Souls’ Appeal
“We are most grateful for your support and ask God’s blessings on the people who so generously contribute to the St. Elizabeth Mission Society.” – Sr. Teresa Sweeney, OSF
Sr. Teresa Sweeney, OSF
Birth Date: Dec. 13, 1930
Reception Date: Aug. 15, 1949
Final Profession: Aug. 16, 1956
Entered into the Fullness of Life: May 11, 2017
