Sister Angela O’Connell dedicated the majority of her 70 years of religious life to education, shaping young minds with wisdom, kindness, and unwavering faith. As both a teacher and principal in several schools within the Philadelphia Archdiocese, she found deep fulfillment in her ministry. Yet, when asked which experience left the greatest mark on her heart, she spoke of the seven years she spent teaching at St. Peter the Apostle School in Dublin, Ireland.
The school, nestled in a struggling community plagued by poverty, drug addiction, and crime, was a place where children sought refuge from the hardships of home. The dangers of the neighborhood were so great that the priests and staff often walked the sisters home at night for their safety. Though the reality outside its walls was daunting, within the school, there was an extraordinary sense of peace. Sr. Angela witnessed firsthand the transformative power of a nurturing environment—how a place of learning could also be a sanctuary. She was deeply moved by the respect and reverence the students showed, understanding that, for many, school was the one place where they felt truly safe and valued. This experience reinforced her lifelong belief in the importance of creating spaces where children can flourish, no matter what their circumstances.
Upon returning to the U.S. in 2010, Sr. Angela, now in her golden years, continued to serve with the same devotion, though in different ways. She lent her talents to the congregation’s general services office, managing mailings, copies, and supplies with care and dedication. A woman of many creative gifts, she poured love into every handmade knitted sweater and cap she crafted for the congregation’s annual craft fair and foundation events.
Sr. Angela’s life has been a testament to faith in action—teaching, nurturing, and serving with a heart open to those in need. Though her roles have changed over the years, her mission has remained the same: to bring warmth, comfort, and a sense of belonging to all she encounters.
Follow The Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SrsofStFrancisPhila/?ref=mf
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sistersofstfrancis/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SrsofStFrancisPhila
X: https://twitter.com/OSFPhila
