Celebrating Sister Mary Ellen McAleese’s 65th Jubilee
We graciously recognize Sister Mary Ellen McAleese and her 65 years of vowed religious life—a journey marked by grace, faith, and Franciscan joy.
After growing up in West Chicago, Illinois, Sister Mary Ellen entered religious life in 1960, professed first vows in 1963, and final vows in 1968. Her early education at St. Mary Elementary, St. Francis High School, and later at the College of St. Francis and Marillac College laid the groundwork for a life devoted to faith and learning.
Drawn to the Franciscan way of life by its “simplicity, earthiness, and joy,” Sister Mary Ellen recalls a high school trip to St. Joseph Hospital in Milwaukee, where the warmth and joy of the Franciscan Sisters deeply moved her. “Their joy and humanness were attractive to me,” she remembers. That spark led her to join the aspirancy in 1958.
Her ministry has been rich and varied, spanning roles as a teacher, chaplain, vocation and formation director, wellness consultant, and provincial directress. Whether in classrooms, hospitals, or leadership, Sister Mary Ellen has shared her many gifts generously. She especially cherishes her time as Chaplain at Marianjoy, and as Provincial Directress, where she could use her love for ritual and liturgy to deeply touch others’ lives.
Outside of ministry, Sister Mary Ellen enjoyed biking, writing poetry, and playing the harp—pastimes that reflect her creativity and contemplative spirit.
As we celebrate this milestone, we thank Sister Mary Ellen for her faithful witness, joyful spirit, and decades of loving service.
Happy 65th Jubilee, Sister Mary Ellen!