Sister Mary James Dippold

I was born and raised in St. Marys Pennsylvania, the home of St. Joseph Monastery – the first Benedictine Monastery of women in the United States. The Sisters were my neighbors, teachers, my friends… I always wanted to be a Sister, so on September 8, 1957, I entered St. Joseph Monastery.  

I graduated from Villanova University with a degree in education and spent years as a teacher, principal, and an art instructor. During my time there I held many internal positions.  

After 168 years, St. Joseph Monastery closed its doors. On July 14, 2014 I transferred to the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh. Having adjusted to a new place I am presently in the Craft Room and at the Hospitality Desk every day. I am in charge of the Gift Shop and I am the Creative decorator for the dining room.

I have enjoyed my religious life and I thank God every day for the prayer life and support of all the Sisters. The Journey is still going on.