Obituary of Sister Mary Francis Callahan

CALLAHAN– Sister Mary Francis of the Infant Jesus, 92, a member of the Discalced Nuns of Loretto, died Oct. 13, 2012, at the Carmelite Monastery of St. Therese of Lisieux, Loretto. Born Mary Louise Callahan on Dec. 29, 1919, in Philadelphia, daughter of the late John Edward and Elizabeth Philomena (Maginn) Callahan. Preceded in death by her beloved older brother, John Edward Callahan Jr., and sisters-in-law, Rosemary Callahan and Rita (Harkins) Callahan. Survived by nephews, John, Thomas, Joseph and Robert Callahan and Michael and James Harkins, as well as several great-nephews and great-nieces. Sister is also survived by lifelong friend, Jane Malone. Sister Mary Francis entered Carmel in Loretto in 1946 and received the habit as a choir sister in February 1947. She made her first profession 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 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 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday at the Carmelite Monastery, Loretto. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at the monastery, Bishop Mark Bartchak, principal celebrant. Committal, Carmelite Monastery. Arrangements by Charles M. Kennedy Funeral Home, Cresson.