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Born in Sharpsburg , PA , the daughter of Joseph and Mary Mertz, she was one of five siblings, one brother and three sisters. Sister entered after graduating from high school and received her B. E. from Duquesne University . Not only was Sister a born teacher but she was especially understanding with intermediate and upper grade students. In 1966 she received her Masters in Educational Administration from the University of Detroit . By that time she was already a principal and superior. Sister Virginia was also a wonderful witness to everyone in terms of being ahead of her times. As the theology of the 2 nd Vatican Council began to impact on the Community and the Church, she was an eager learner. As an educator and superior she was known for her willingness to begin thinking differently about the Church and religious life. She was also an advocate for the younger sisters, who were often sent to convents where she lived and ministered because of her wisdom and foresight. One example of this was her enthusiasm for the House of Prayer movement and her support for Sister Marion Senish, as both pioneered this endeavor in our Community, first in Springdale and later in South Butler County. Her lifelong friendship with her Etna neighbor, Sister Mary Victor, is also a testimony to the value that she placed on friendship. Intuitively, she understood the meaning of “soul sister” long before it was a popular term in contemporary spirituality. To the Community, Sister Virginia was an inspiration. After she retired to Providence Heights , she was always present for prayer, meetings and just plain fun. She enjoyed visitors, especially if they happened to bring some ice cream. She would always indicate that a banana split was entirely too much, but, somehow, it always disappeared! She rarely complained about ill health and pain, but always complimented and thanked her caregivers for the least service. As we enter into Holy Week, we do so with Sister Virginia present to us in a new way, now united with Jesus, her constant Friend and Brother. Feastday: September 12 SMJC
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