Dec. 29, 1919 - Oct. 13, 2012
Sister Mary Francis Callahan of the Infant Jesus, 92, a member of the Discalced Carmelite Nuns of Loretto, died Saturday at the Carmelite Monastery of St. Therese of Lisieux, Loretto.
She was born as Mary Louise Callahan in Philadelphia, daughter of the late John Edward and Elizabeth Philomena (Maginn) Callahan.
She is survived by nephews: John, Thomas, Joseph and Robert Callahan, and Michael and James Harkins; as well as several great-nephews and nieces. Sister is also survived by life-long friend, Jane Malone.
She was preceded in death by her beloved older brother John Edward Callahan Jr.; and sisters-in-law: Rosemary Callahan and Rita (Harkins) Callahan.
Sister Mary Francis entered Carmel in Loretto in 1946 and received the habit as a Choir Sister on Feb. 1947. She made her First Profession on Feb. 18, 1948, and her Solemn Profession in 1951. In 1953, Sister was part of a founding group of Sisters who established the Carmel in Elysburg, Pa. After many years of dedicated service, Sister Mary Francis returned to Loretto Carmel at the request of Bishop James Hogan on March 18, 1972. She was Mother Prioress of Loretto Carmel for 23 years. In 1997, Sister Mary Francis was awarded the Prince Gallitzin Cross Award in recognition of her role as "Second Foundress" of the Community and all her loving attention to its development following a trying time in its history.
Viewing for Sister Mary Francis will be held on Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Carmelite Monastery, Loretto. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Monastery, Bishop Mark L. Bartchak, principal celebrant. Committal will be at Carmelite Monastery.
Arrangements are by Charles M. Kennedy Funeral Home, Cresson.
