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Sister Agnese, baptized Alexandra Palczynski, was born in Utica, New York, on September 16, 1937, to Agnes and Chester Palczynski. Her younger sister, Helene, joined the family fourteen years later. Sister attended Holy Trinity Elementary School, where she was taught by the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. She was familiar with the Sisters through her paternal aunt, Sister Bernice, who was a member of the Congregation. Upon graduation from St. Francis DeSales High School, Sister Agnese entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth on September 8, 1955.
On August 14, 1956, she entered the novitiate, receiving the name Sister Agnese. She was chosen to complete her two-year novitiate in Albano, Rome, Italy. It was in Albano that she professed her temporary vows on August 4, 1958, before returning to the United States. Sister professed her perpetual vows in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on August 11, 1964, adding the mystery “Jesus the Good Shepherd” to her name.
St. Agnese received her BA in Psychology and Education from Holy Family University in Philadelphia and her master’s degree in religious studies from St. Charles Seminary in Overbrook, PA.
Sister served the children and families of Little Flower Children Services in Wading River, NY, for 32 of her 64 years in ministry. Her first role at Little Flower (1966) was that of Child Care Worker in Kateri Cottage where she remained for seven years. Later, Sister held several other positions in various departments before transferring to the External Relations Department where she supported the agency’s fundraising, volunteer, and communications efforts until her retirement in 2022. In addition to her time at Little Flower Children Services, Sister also spent several years as an elementary school teacher in schools in Brooklyn, NY and Springfield, MA. She worked as Co-director of the Day Care at St. Christopher’s Home in Sea Cliff, NY, and served six years as Provincial Superior of the Monroe Province of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth.
Sister Agnese would be the first to admit that her life had its challenges. She felt confident, however, that with the help of prayer, community, a good mind and a healthy body, she could meet those opportunities. As a member of her local community, Sr. Agnese knew how to laugh, to pray, to play, and to enjoy that special cup of coffee with a friend. As genuine as the smile that lit up her face was her greeting, “So good to see you!”
Sister experienced health issues in 2022 which necessitated her move to Immaculate Heart of Mary Convent in Monroe, CT. Upon retirement, she enjoyed the beauty of nature, quiet moments in chapel in prayer and staying connected with family, friends and former co-workers.
Sister Agnese suffered many health issues during the final two years of her life, and was eventually placed on hospice. Sister Agnese passed into the green pastures of her Good Shepherd on November 12, 2025, the birth date of the foundress of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth.
Those who knew Sister Agnese will remember her for her infectious smile and overwhelming laughter, her deep-rooted faith in Jesus, and her unwavering commitment to spreading love and kindness to everyone she encountered. She had a rare gift for making others smile and laugh, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed her path. How can we forget her rendition of “Prinderella and the Cince.” Her selflessness, warmth, humor, and generous spirit will be remembered forever.
Sister Agnese, may you rest in peace!
