In Memoriam

Sister Theresa was born on July 14, 1939 in Philadelphia, PA to Laura (Gorka) and Marion Bukowski. Sister was the youngest of three children and the only girl. She attended St. Mary of Czestochowa Elementary School and Nazareth Academy High School both in Philadelphia, PA. After being taught by the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, Sister Theresa felt called by God to join the order. On January 8, 1956, she entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, and received the name, Sister Bernadine. She professed her temporary vows on August 12, 1958 and her final vows on August 11, 1964 adding the mystery of The Blessed Sacrament to her name. In 1970, Sister returned to her baptismal name. 

 

As a true educator, Sister Theresa had the unique ability to connect with students and colleagues in ways that allowed them to grow, blossom, and discern their gifts. During her years of teaching, she ministered in Elementary Schools in Norwich, Ct, Springfield, MA, and Brooklyn/Queens, NY. Forty of her sixty years of educating children was spent working in St. Stanislaus Kostka School. Upon retirement in 2004, Sister continued to teach CCD classes at St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish, until September of 2018. In October of that year, she retired to Immaculate Heart of Mary Convent in Monroe, Connecticut.

 

During her retirement years, she continued to celebrate life’s joys surrounded by her religious community. Every occasion, no matter how small, was a reason to have a party. Sister Theresa was also a person who cared deeply for others, especially for the poor and needy. She was always willing to help others and had a good sense of humor. Sister loved to share her stories, bringing much laughter to the sisters. Her smile was as big as her heart.

 

A person of great faith with a strong commitment to prayer and her spiritual life, Sister had a devotion to the Blessed Virgin and to the Mercy of God. There were special devotional prayers that she would recite daily. Sister’s favorite song was “Amazing Grace” because as Sister Theresa said, “without God’s grace I would be nowhere.”

 

After a lengthy illness, Sr. Theresa died quietly and peacefully the evening of June 23, 2025. May she rest in the loving embrace of her God whom she served faithfully for many years.