Sister Katherine Bernard Gaffney, OP died on January 1, 2020 in Siena Hall, Dominican Convent, Sparkill, NY. She was 91 years old.
Born in Bronx, NY, on August 9,1928, Margaret was the daughter of Bernard and Katherine O’Brien Gaffney. She entered the Dominican Congregation of Our Lady of the Rosary in Sparkill on September 8,1946 and received the name Sister Katherine Bernard. She professed her first vows in 1948 and final vows in 1953.
Sister Katherine Bernard received her BS in Education from Fordham University, Bronx, NY, 1951; MS in Chemistry, Villanova University, PA, 1964; and a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from Notre Dame University, IN, 1968. She received Certification in Spiritual Direction from Our Lady of Peace Spiritual Center.
Sister Katherine Bernard ministered at St. Brendan School, Bronx, NY (1948- 1953); St. Rose of Lima School, NYC (1953-1957); Albertus Magnus High School, Bardonia, NY (1957-1964); St. Thomas Aquinas College, Sparkill, NY as professor and Chair of the Science Department (1968-1972); Dominican Sisters Executive Team Member (1972-1980); Our Lady of Peace Spiritual Center, Narragansett, RI, Spiritual Director Intern (1981-1982). From 1982-2012, Sister Katherine served as Co-Administrator/ Director of the Corazon Community, Glasco, NY, a spirituality/hospitality program of the Dominican Sisters.
Sister Katherine Bernard is predeceased by her parents Bernard and Katherine O’Brien Gaffney, her brother Bernard (Mary) and her brother Robert. She is survived by her sister Katherine Ryan (John); sister-in-law Madeline Gaffney, and many nieces and nephews.
Sister Katherine Bernard touched the lives of countless children and adults in her ministry as teacher, congregational leader, program administrator, and spiritual director. She was committed to the mission of the Dominican Sisters for more 73 years, proclaiming the Word of God through a ministry for justice. May she be welcomed into the fullness of God’s presence. Well done, good and faithful servant, Sister Katherine Bernard Gaffney.