When Rick A. stepped into his elementary school classroom at St. Catherine of Siena in Beechview in the 1960’s, he had no idea that his lifelong journey with the Sisters of St. Joseph was just beginning.
At South Hills Catholic (now Seton LaSalle), Rick continued to be guided by the gentle wisdom of the Sisters and the enduring values of his family and his faith. After attending the University of Pittsburgh and enjoying an engineering career, Rick was awakened by a desire to support the women who had given him a strong educational foundation and profoundly influenced his life.
“I was able to witness and receive the talents and prayers of the Sisters,” Rick recalls. As a result, he once volunteered his time and talent to help paint and renovate the convent at St. Catherine of Siena.
As Rick grew, so did his appreciation for the values the Sisters had nurtured in him. He finds it gratifying that they continue to share their gifts with so many others, and in return, he felt a calling to give back.
“They are the epitome of how God calls us in service to and support of our brothers and Sisters in the Lord. I am extremely grateful for the Sisters and their contribution to my formation as a practicing Catholic.”
Now 65 and retired, Rick also credits his parents who instilled in him the meaning and necessity of sacrificing his gifts for the benefit of others. Today, he is a faithful Summer Fun Fest volunteer at Saint Teresa of Kolkata Parish and a proud monthly supporter of the Sisters of St. Joseph. His financial contributions ensure that the Sisters’ mission and outreach continue to thrive more than 156 years after their founding in Pennsylvania.
Sister Mary Susan Connell, his former teacher, describes him as “an excellent student. A joy to teach…always kind, helpful, dependable and generous.”
“I give because I believe in what they do,” Rick says. “Supporting the Sisters is my way of saying thank you—for the foundation they gave me and for the countless lives they continue to touch.”
Rick’s story is a testament to the enduring impact of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Through his support, the Sisters’ legacy continues to inspire new generations to lead with love, serve with humility and make a difference in the world.
Does Rick’s story resonate with you? Have the Sisters of St. Joseph touched your life or the life of someone you love? Their legacy lives on through the support of people like you!
By becoming a monthly donor, you can help ensure that their mission continues to reach future generations. If you feel called to give back through monthly giving, we’d love to hear from you.