Sister Mary Catherine Barron, CSJ

Sister Mary Catherine Barron, CSJ

Sister Mary Catherine Barron, CSJ, died peacefully at the Teresian House in Albany on Feb. 1. She had been a Sister of St. Joseph for 60 years.

Sister Mary Catherine (Cathy) was the oldest of seven children of Elizabeth Mac Entee and Joseph Barron. Their father’s military career meant the family moved often until settling in Binghamton. There Cathy completed high school, entering the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1962.

After professing vows in 1965 and earning degrees in English, Sister Mary Catherine taught English in high schools in the Syracuse and Albany dioceses. She was an amazing teacher, presenting material with an infectious enthusiasm and a deep spirituality that supported her ministry. She was respected and loved in each school where she taught.

Sister Mary Catherine’s gifts extended beyond literature.  She loved Scripture, particularly the Old Testament. She made the narratives her own, eventually publishing several articles. As others learned of her gifts, Sister Mary Catherine was asked to offer days of prayer and Communion services as well as Lenten and Advent reflections. This was a practice she continued when many of the sisters moved to the Teresian House.

Along with her love for her community, Sister Mary Catherine cherished her own family, visiting everyone faithfully. The family particularly loved Cape Cod, a favorite vacation spot. Often Sister Carolyn Schanz, a dear friend, came with Sister Mary Catherine, always embraced by the family.

As Sister Mary Catherine’s own health diminished, she continued to volunteer in many ways, always willing to be of service. She was looking forward to helping with Advent prayers, but God had other plans.

Sister Mary Catherine is survived by her sisters, Patti Barron, Jo DelNegro, Liz Ferritti and Francine Matthews. She was predeceased by her parents, a sister, Joanne, and a brother, Stephen. She will be sorely missed by her family and friends and by the Sisters of St. Joseph.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Feb. 7 at the Provincial House. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Office of Mission Advancement, St. Joseph’s Provincial House, 385 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, N.Y., 12110.