SISTER MERCIA BITER, CSJ, 94, died Sunday, December 16, in the Motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Baden. Daughter of the late Rudolph Biter and Frances Criste Biter, Sr. Mercia entered the Congregation from St. Patrick Parish, Gallitzin, in 1949.

Sister ministered in the field of education in the Pittsburgh and Altoona/Johnstown Dioceses for more than 40 years. During this time Sister served as counselor at the Diocesan Child Center in Pittsburgh and as principal at the former Nativity School, North Side. Sister then ministered at Central Catholic Elementary School in Johnstown from 1970–76, and at St. Patrick School, Gallitzin, from 1976–1994.

After her years as an educator, Sister Mercia continued to minister at St. Patrick’s as Pastoral Minister from 1994–96. Sister retired to the Motherhouse in 1996 where she served on the Motherhouse Staff until 1999.

Sister Mercia will be remembered as an excellent educator. Her dedication and zeal were gifts that enriched the lives and hearts of her students throughout the years.

Sister Mercia is survived by a niece and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden. Friends will be received Tuesday, December 18, from 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Wednesday, December 19, from 11:00–2:30 p.m. at the Motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Baden. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. in the Motherhouse Chapel. Burial will follow in the Sisters’ Cemetery on the Motherhouse grounds. Donations in the name of Sister Mercia may be sent to the Sisters of St. Joseph Memorial Fund, St. Joseph Convent, 1020 State Street, Baden, PA  15005.

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