GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Bishop David Walkowiak has issued a statement following the announcement this week that Sister Mary Aquinas Weber has passed away.
He says her tireless efforts were expressed with true humility and called her a pillar of not only Aquinas College but also of the larger West Michigan Community.
Sister Weber was 102. Funeral arrangements were being made at the time of this report.
Here is the diocese news release:
It is with great sadness that I received the news of the death of Sister Mary Aquinas Weber, OP. Sister Aquinas was a pillar not only of Aquinas College, but also of the larger West Michigan community. Though recognized and honored for her many accomplishments, her tireless efforts were expressed with true humility. Sister Aquinas paved the way for many other women through her example and leadership.
The Dominican Sisters elected her as their youngest Prioress. During her tenure, she led the community through the renewal of religious life proposed in the implementation of the Second Vatican Council. Sister Aquinas provided us with a sterling example of servant leadership, leading with confidence, authenticity and kindness.
Her constant desire to serve those around her demonstrates the importance of sharing our blessings and talents with others. For almost twenty years, she faithfully served on the Diocesan Finance Council. In 2011, Pope Benedict XVI bestowed upon her the ecclesiastical honor of the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Cross, recognizing her distinguished service to the Church. Her service to God’s people has been a great blessing to her Dominican Sisters, Aquinas College, the Diocese of Grand Rapids, and the people of West Michigan.
She will be greatly missed. Please join me in offering prayers and condolences to Sister Aquinas’ family and the Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters. May she now rest in eternal peace.”
The Diocese of Grand Rapids serves more than 179,371 Catholics, 79 parishes and 31 schools in an 11-county area of West Michigan. For additional information, visit our website grdiocese.org. Connect with the diocese on Facebook (Diocese of Grand Rapids) and Instagram (@GRDiocese). # # #
