Mary Ann McQuade, Associate, was a member of the Sisters of Saint Dominic of Blauvelt, New York since November 8, 1986 when she took her Associate Commitment until her passing on January 23, 2015.
Mary Ann grew up in the Throgs Neck section of the Bronx. One of the highlights of her early years in St. Benedict's released time program was Sr. Anastasia who taught the lives of the saints. She went on to attend Cathedral High School, marry John in 1950, and became the mother of a boy and 2 girls. They moved to St. Frances de Chantal parish in the Bronx where Mary Ann was active in parish and school activities, taught high school CCD, and worked with brain damaged children and troubled teenagers.
Eventually she became very involved in the Charismatic Renewal Movement, serving on the advisory board and service team for the Archdiocese. Through the Movement she met Srs. Maureen McDonagh and Gerry Milbert, both had a profound effect on her life. As a leader of her parish prayer group she had many opportunities to bless, preach, and share the fruits of her contemplation.
John passed away in 1977 and in 1982 Mary Ann became employed as a cancer care technician at Calvary Hospital where, again, there was a Blauvelt presence. She was certified from the Center for Spiritual Development as well as the Pastoral Bereavement Counseling Center and facilitated bereavement sessions in the parish along with a Sparkill sister.
As an associate and as a very active Associate team member Mary Ann claimed that her life style was continually being affirmed and the charisms of truth and service became more pronounced in her life. Within the past year Mary Ann wrote to the associates stating, "At this time I am in the twilight years of my life with many health issues and letting go of so many experiences and situations that I always took for granted. I have nothing but the best memories of my Blauvelt associate years ... Thank you sisters and associates for making a part of my life so meaningful and faith filled."
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