Sr. Paracleta Sweeney, OP, formerly Winifred Sweeney, a member of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt for the past 75 years, died on August 24, 2018 in St. Martin de Porres Community at the motherhouse. Sister Paracleta was 92 years of age.
Sr. Paracleta was born to Timothy Sweeney and Elizabeth Connolly Sweeney on July 26, 1926 in the Bronx, NY. She entered the Sisters of St. Dominic on February 2, 1944 from St. Pius Parish, Bronx, NY. She received the Dominican habit on August 25, 1944, professed first vows on August 26, 1945 and final vows on September 3, 1948.
Sr. Paracleta held the MS in Education from Fordham University. Her many years in ministry were devoted to congregational service and to the education of youth. She served as First Councilor for the congregation 1971-75 and as Major Superior 1975-79. Sr. Paracleta taught in the following schools: St. Benedict, Bronx 1946-51; St. Nicholas of Tolentine, Bronx 1951-59; Father Lopez High School, Daytona Beach, Florida 1959-64; and St. Nicholas of Tolentine High School, Bronx 1964-69. She was principal of St. Pius High School, Bronx 1969-71 and St. John School, Goshen 1979-99. Sr. Paracleta served as Latin Teacher in St. John’s school 1999-2002 and ministered in St. John’s parish 2002-04. She returned to St. Dominic’s Convent in 2004 and engaged in community service.
Sr. Paracleta was predeceased by her parents and brother William. In addition to her religious congregation, Sr. Paracleta is survived by several cousins.
RELATIVES AND FRIENDS MAY ATTEND SERVICES AT:
St. Dominic’s Convent, 496 Western Highway, Blauvelt, New York
Wake: Tuesday, August 28, 2018 from 3-7PM
Mass of Christian Burial: Wednesday, August 29, 2018 at 10:30AM
Burial: St. Dominic Convent Cemetery immediately following Mass
Arrangements have been made by Hannemann Funeral Home, Nyack, New York
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of St. Dominic of Blauvelt, NY.