Sister Mary Penrose

Sister Mary E. Penrose, formerly Sister Romanus, 93, died June 22, 2018 in Benet Hall at St. Scholastica Monastery. She was born to George and Marjorie Penrose on September 2, 1924 in Crosby, MN.

Mary Eloise graduated from Carlton High School in 1942 and earned a BA in Sociology from The College of St. Scholastica in 1946. She entered St. Scholastica Monastery in July 1946 and made her Perpetual Monastic Profession in 1951. Sister was in her 70th year of Monastic Profession.

Sister Mary E. had a passion for Religious Studies and completed her MA in Sacred Doctrine: Scripture and Theology at St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame, IN in 1959.  She completed post-graduate studies in Process Theology and Christology. During her time with the St. Scholastica Community, she taught grade school at Our Lady of Victory in Minneapolis and high school courses in religion and sociology at Stanbrook Hall, Duluth, and Gerard High School, Phoenix. She also served as Director of Aspirants and was one of the founders of House of Peace in Winton, MN.

Seeking a contemplative focus, Sister transferred to the Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, St. Louis, MO in 1970. Her major ministries during this time included vocation and formation work, service as a librarian and editor of Spirit & Life. Sister also served as Midwest Regional Coordinator and delegate for the National Association of Contemplative Sisters.

In 1995, Sister Mary E. transferred back to her Duluth Community, continued her writing and published two books. She was a talented musician and served joyfully as a Cantor and Schola member.

Sister Mary E. was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her brother Russell J. Penrose, her cousins Char Molrine and Virginia Simon, the Sisters of St. Scholastica Monastery and many friends.  A Morning Prayer/Wake service will be held on Thursday, July 5, 2018 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel at 9:30 a.m. with visitation until 10:45 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Father Brian Schultz presiding. Interment will follow at Gethsemane Cemetery. Arrangements are by Dougherty Funeral Home. Memorials to St. Scholastica Monastery are preferred.