She was predeceased by 7 sisters, one of whom was Sister Albertine, and two brothers. She loved them all and helped wherever and whenever possible. Sister taught in both elementary and high school. She was an excellent Chemistry teacher and was very skilled in the field of science. Many of her students received high awards at the science fairs as a result of her teaching. She had very little free time but when she did her time was taken up either cooking or doing handcrafts. She felt that every moment belonged to the Lord and was a gift to her and her way of thanking the Lord was to use them carefully.

In 1970 she was elected as Prioress General. It was a time of transition but she helped everyone to live through it. During this time there were some very difficult occurrences. Some were such that she was called to the bishop of Fall River to explain, defend and sometimes to disagree but in a way that made him respect her and always wanted to be remembered to her. After eight years, as the leader of the Community, the messages from the Bishop continued to come. This always brought a smile to her face and made her say "O yes, those were the days."

One of the nicest things that some remember is to be called to her office and asked to sit and discuss with her anything that needed to be fixed. She listened carefully, asked a few questions and would assure you that something would be changed and that you would be told. Just having her listen and let us know that what we discussed was of importance was of help to most.

She had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed being with others but most of all she was a real listener. The Christmas parties that she helped to initiate were planned throughout the year. There must be a wonderful one being planned for the Christ Child this Christmas and we wouldn't be surprised to know that the planning was done by her. Many of her loved family members will probably be helping her also.

Her love of being a Dominican Sister was always a part of her, even up to 2:30 a.m. on December 8, 2003, when she took the Blessed Mother's hand and went to meet her Lord. She was going to join her biological and Dominican families- the two of which meant so much to her throughout her life.

She was small in body but big in heart. We have loved her and are happy that many of our Dominican Sisters of Hope here in Newburgh have come to know her. We know now that her love for all of us will be felt in the prayers that she will be saying for us. Good-bye Sister Anita Pauline we will remember you in our prayers and know that you will always be there to help us.

Sister Louise Synan, OP
December 10, 2003

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