Sister M. Maris Law, IHM
Sister M. Maris Law, IHM, of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary died on Wednesday, September 28, 2005, at the Marian Convent in Scranton.
She was born on June 11, 1918 in Brooklyn, NY, and given the name Mary F. She was the daughter of the late William and Mary Elizabeth Dolan Law. She entered the IHM Congregation on September 8, 1935, made her temporary profession of vows on May 4, 1938, and her final profession of vows on August 2, 1941.
Sister Maris served as a teacher at the following schools: St. Mary Elementary School in Cresson, PA, from 1961 to 1963; St. Patrick Elementary School in Spangler, PA, from 1963 to 1965; St. John the Evangelist Elementary School in Bingthamton, NY; St. Peter of Alcantara Elementary School in Port Washington, NY; St. Raymond School in East Rockaway, NY; St. John the Evangelist Elementary School in Silver Spring, MD; and at elementary schools located in Baltimore, MD.
Sister Maris also served as the coordinator of religious education at the following: St. Agnes Parish in Forest City, PA, from 1965 to 1971; St. Ignatius Parish in Kingston, PA, from 1971 to 1977; St. Peter Parish in Wellsboro, PA, from 1977 to 1981; St. Patrick's Parish in Milford, PA, from 1981 to 1982; St. Eulalia's Parish in Elmhurst, PA, from 1982 to 1984; and St. Mary's Parish in Dunmore, PA, from 1984 to 1986. She then served on the support staff of the Marian Convent in Scranton, PA, from 1986 to 2001.
From 2001 to the time of her death, Sister Maris served as a prayer minister at the Marian Convent.
She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in education, and a Master of Arts degree in religious studies, both from Marywood College.
She was preceded in death by two brothers, Joseph and William.
She is survived by a nephew, Joseph Law of Ft. Myers, FL, grandnieces and grandnephews.
Reprinted from "In Memoriam" section of Journey, Winter 2006 issue
I am honored to share some pleasant memories of my dear friend Sr. Maris Law.
Throughout the years, Sr. Maris, Sr. Robertine (my sister) and I enjoyed many happy occasions together. Her prayerful, generous spirit coupled with her genuine sense of humor brought us together for retreat, home visits, family celebrations and sharing the sorrow and pain of loss at the death of a loved one. Whatever the occasion, Maris added to the joy, soothed the pain and remained a faithful friend and loyal companion throughout many years. Whether she was teaching children, preparing appetizing meals, enhancing community life in her own unique way or driving sisters hither and yon, her willingness to serve was evident in the light in her eyes, the lilt in her voice, and the smile on her lips. Her personal needs were never center stage. In fact I do believe the concept of complaining was foreign to Sister Maris. ++God’s will and her loving acceptance of it was her daily priority.
When our family gathered at the Marian Convent to celebrate her Mass of Resurrection, my nephew, a gentleman with Down Syndrome, when invited to participate in the Offertory Procession, replied, “ I would do anything for Sr. Maris. I love her.” I am certain Jerry said this remembering that the presence of Sr. Maris among us was always a wonderful experience.
Although saddened by the loss of her physical presence I rejoice that Sr. Maris has completed her journey and is now at home with our Heavenly Father. She was and always will be a striking example of the beatitudes.
I remain grateful for the precious gift of her friendship and companionship.|
by Sr. M. Donelda Fox, IHM
