Age 88
Sister Miriam de Lourdes began her ministry in elementary education, teaching primary through middle school. She served as principal at Our Lady of Lourdes School in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, before moving to teach high school. In 1983, she returned to her alma mater, Merion Mercy Academy (class of ’51) in Merion, Pennsylvania, as vice principal and then principal. She was an outstanding Mercy educator and servant leader, navigating the academy through important transitions for the high school.
In 1988, she became a team member of Mercy International Centre in Ireland, a position she enjoyed for two years and often referred to. But it was her ministry as administrator of the vacation house in Sea Isle City, New Jersey, that was her greatest love. Sister Miriam de Lourdes was a welcoming presence to all who came to Sea Isle City. All enjoyed her stories, her laughter and her warm hospitality. Sister Miriam had a lively spirit and enjoyed being with her family, sisters and the ocean she loved.