Sisters mark milestone with Jubilee Mass and celebration dinner
By Kristine Rilling06/13/2025
Women religious from across the Diocese of Erie gathered on June 12 at St. Mark Catholic Center to celebrate a special Jubilee Mass honoring the many years of service and devotion shared by the religious sisters of the region. The liturgy, presided over by Bishop Lawrence Persico, offered a moment of profound gratitude, unity and reflection on their shared vocation.
In his homily, Bishop Persico spoke warmly of the sisters’ commitment to the Gospel and the enduring witness they offer through lives of prayer and service.?
“Today we gather in prayer to reflect upon a unique gift that is a part of the life-giving Church of the risen Jesus: the gift of consecrated life,” said Bishop Persico during his homily. “We reflect upon women who have understood and embraced the Lord’s universal call to holiness and mission. What a blessing you have been and continue to be for all of us as we celebrate your jubilees.”
The Mass brought together congregations including the Sisters of St. Joseph, the Benedictine Sisters of Erie and the Sisters of Mercy, among others, honoring jubilarians and all those who continue to serve faithfully in education, healthcare, parish ministry and social outreach. The chapel was filled with the joyful sound of singing and the quiet strength of women who have given their lives to Christ.
Bishop Persico concluded his homily, saying: “With deep gratitude, my sisters, we give thanks for your example and for your witness to the Jesus alive among us. Encouraged by the gift of your faithful service, we look beyond our doubts and struggles to walk together in faith, reflecting always the love and mercy of Jesus in our lives.”
Following the liturgy, the sisters gathered in the Library of St. Mark Catholic Center accompanied by Bishop Persico for a festive dinner, sharing laughter, memories and the bonds of community. The atmosphere was lighthearted and warm, reflecting both the depth of their call and the joy that continues to sustain them.
As Sr. Nancy Fischer, SSJ noted "We are grateful to Bishop Persico for hosting this wonderful event to honor the Sisters of our diocese who are celebrating significant anniversaries. These women have given their lives in service to the people of the Diocese of Erie, and we give thanks to them and to God for their ministry."
The annual celebration serves as a reminder of the foundational role religious sisters have played, and continue to play, in the life of the church.
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