From an early age, Sr. Mary Rita Paratore felt a deep calling to religious life. She was especially drawn to the Capuchin Sisters—later the Franciscan Sisters of Ringwood—because of their warmth, humility, and genuine connection with people. Her journey began as a fourth-grade teacher, a role she embraced with boundless energy. But her life as a sister would come to encompass so much more—teaching, caregiving, administration, and leadership. Rooted in faith, she lived a life of devotion, placing little value on material possessions and finding fulfillment in service.
Sr. Mary Rita’s dedication to learning was lifelong. She earned a degree in education and pursued postgraduate studies in Theology and Religious Education. In the late 1960s, during the transformative years following Vatican II, she became Novice Directress. It was a time of great change—nuns were given more voice in their ministries, veils became optional, and later, even secular clothing was permitted. Though she chose to remain in the traditional habit, she embraced renewal with grace, knowing faith is not about rigid tradition but about growing with the world while staying true to one’s calling.
Her leadership continued as principal of St. Catherine of Bologna School before being elected Superior General at Mount St. Francis, guiding the congregation for nine years. As vocations declined, the Franciscan Sisters of Ringwood merged with the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia in 2003—a necessary evolution to ensure their legacy. Sr. Mary Rita remained a steadfast presence, serving as Assistant Director of Religious Education for 19 years and later volunteering for 12 years at Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish.
For over 70 years, Sr. Mary Rita has lived a life of devotion, love, and resilience. Through the many changes in the Church and the world, she has shown that faith is not about resisting change but embracing it—staying steadfast in purpose while walking forward with the times.
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