Sr. Maria Manzano

Sr. Maria Manzano, age 92, Benedictine nun of St. Scholastica Priory, Petersham, Massachusetts, passed away at the priory after a short illness on May 17, 2024, a few weeks short of her 93nd birthday. Born on June 4, 1931, in Merida, Mexico, Sr. Maria spent her life caring for others prior to entering the monastery.

Beginning in 1966 until she entered religious life, Sr. Maria worked as a nanny and, after she became a US citizen in 1978, caring for priests for many years in this country, including Bishop Joseph Latino. She entered Our Lady Queen Monastery in Louisiana and professed her solemn vows there in 2003. Along with her community, she moved to St Scholastica Priory, Petersham, MA in 2009, where she has made many friends. In her later years, her love of gardening gave way to increased time in prayer. Recently in response to a remark that she has belonged to Jesus' all during her life - she said emphatically, "Body and soul".

Sr. Maria was preceded in death by her parents, Esteban Manzano and Elma Ortega, by her cherished aunt and uncle Eira (Ortega) and José Graniel, who raised her, with Miriam and her beloved brother Gilbardo, who survives her. Her niece Eira and husband, Alfonso, visited here. She has many other nieces and nephews. She leaves behind her monastic communities and a vast spiritual family who will miss her deeply. She was deeply committed to praying for the souls of the departed.

Visitation is from 3:30-8:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, at the monastery. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 22, 2024, in the Church of St. Scholastica Priory and St. Mary's Monastery. Interment will follow at the community’s cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Scholastica Priory, 271 N. Main St., Petersham, MA, 01366.


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