Born to Eternal Life Funeral: Monday, April 7, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. In the early hours of the morning, Sister Laurie quietly slipped away from us, crossing into eternity, where the Risen Christ awaited her, where she could live in unending joy and limitless love. In recent months, Sister Laurie suffered a series of physical setbacks, which culminated in a stroke. On the morning of her death, the sisters gathered for morning prayer and the Eucharistic liturgy sang: I know that my Redeemer lives! What joy this blest assurance gives! Anselma Catherine entered the community from St. Martin's, West End. Leaving her friends, her siblings and parents, she followed her heart's call and joined other young women in giving her life to God within our religious community. As Sister Laurie's understanding of her vowed commitment, lived in community, grew, so too did her faith in a Provident God and her desire to serve others. As her dedication deepened, she entrusted her life to God: I know that my Redeemer lives! He lives to silence all my fears… After taking vows and being prepared for ministry, Sister Laurie spent her years teaching hundreds of children in elementary schools, primarily in southwestern Pennsylvania, as well as in Wheeling, West Virginia, Dover, Ohio, and Detroit, Michigan. She gave special attention to young, educationally-challenged students, seeking to assist their growth and learning. As Sister Laurie aged, she gradually moved from classroom teaching to the care and support of children in the after-school program at St. Anne's in Castle Shannon, PA. In her ministry, she gave witness of God's compassion: I know that my Redeemer lives! He lives all blessings to impart! Many summers, Sister Laurie took care of the campers at Camp Mishannock in Kingston, Massachusetts. These summers were special to her as she made each day's activities more enjoyable for the girls, providing the love and attention that reassured their parents and gave the campers a safe, happy place. Sister Laurie's great love for the community brought her to give herself wherever she was needed. As her ministry became more limited, she exercised regularly, keeping herself as healthy as possible. She found new ways to serve by writing letters to a sister's parent whose spouse had died and maintaining contact with others who needed a kind word or personal attention. Sister Laurie was available to her sisters serving them until it was no longer possible. These years were difficult for her as she struggled to accept her limitations. In her heart she believed: He lives to wipe away my tears… He lives to calm my troubled heart… We rejoice with Sister Laurie that she has been freed to end her journey and be united with her God and Savior. What joy this blest assurance gives! I know that my Redeemer lives! SMFF Feast Day: August 10
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