Lest We Forget
Sister Anna Therese McMahon, CSJP (1915-2008)
Anna wrote, “In a picturesque corner of Co. Clare, Ireland, I first saw the light of day on June 27, 1915.” Born during a turbulent time in Irish history, Mary Teresa was one of eleven children born to Daniel and Bridget McMahon. Raised on the family farm, she recalled, “I had a very happy childhood.” When talking about her childhood she spoke fondly of the daily recitation of the rosary and the times neighbors gathered to sing and dance to the accompaniment of her mother’s sweet music on the concertina.
With great joy Mary Teresa entered the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace on January 6, 1938 and soon became known as Sr. Anna Therese. After just one year of Novitiate training, Anna began a lifetime of service to God’s people. She served in a variety of ministries, and once described herself as Jack-of-all-Trades! Her first assignment in 1941 was Our Lady of Peace, Fords, where she served as cook. From there she went to Barbara Givernaud where she worked with orphan children. Then it was on to St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bern, North Carolina. In 1946 she was a nursing student at St. Joseph Hospital in Yonkers. Then it was back to New Jersey where she served in several of our ministries. She even spent three years as Superior at our mission in Cabra, Ireland. The highlight in Anna’s life was being assigned to Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck where she served for 25 years until her retirement in 1997 when she retired to St. Michael’s Villa.
Anna wondered over the years why she was assigned and reassigned to so many places. Once she asked her superior about this, and was told that she goes where there is a need, but Anna noted that the need didn’t last long after she got there!
Who was this woman Sr. Anna Therese McMahon? I spoke with several Sisters who lived or worked with her and they were in agreement as to the beauty of this great Sister of St. Joseph of Peace. She was described as a truly caring nurse whose patients came first. More that a few told me that Anna had a terrific sense of humor, loved to tell stories and enjoyed a good laugh. In her healthier days she was extremely outgoing and I have heard that during her time at Holy Name Hospital she practically knew everyone in Teaneck! She initiated prayer groups, was involved in the Cursillo movement, she took courses in spirituality and counseling, and was a life-long learner. Anna accomplished many things during her lifetime, but first and foremost she was a deeply prayerful and spiritual woman. On the occasion of her Golden jubilee she wrote, "I am grateful for my faith, my family, my vocation, and those who have supported me on the journey of life, especially my beloved community, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace. They have nurtured me and afforded me the ways and means to serve the people of God these many years.”
In viewing The Guest Book on the Record Newspaper site, a woman who knew Anna years ago wrote; “I’ll always remember Sr. Anna Therese’s beautiful spirit and open mind. She opened my mind to heaven and how it really is. I’ve no doubt that she’s there now with the Lord she served so well.” To that I say Amen.
--Sr. Maureen Collins, CSJP