Sr. Marie Clement Edrich, SFP
May 3, 1925 – February 17, 2021
In life, there are a few rare people who always seem to have the time to listen, to encourage and to identify your personal goodness. Sr. Marie Clement was such a person, and lived a spirit of openness and kindness that marked her entire life.
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio on May 3, 1925, Myrtle Ann was the oldest child of Paul John Edrich and Myrtle Lewis. She was followed by her brother, Paul who became a priest, Andrew, (who passed shortly after birth) Mary, Frank and Bernadette (affectionately known as Susie).
With the rest of her siblings, Myrtle attended school at St. James White Oak in Cincinnati and went on to live and study at Immaculate Conception High School in Oldenburg, Indiana. The loving care the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor gave to her mother during a tonsillectomy, touched her deeply, and she credits this experience of the Sisters at age 10 with her vocation.
Myrtle entered the novitiate of the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor in Cincinnati, OH on September 8, 1943, receiving the name Sister Marie Clement. She professed her first vows in 1946 and her perpetual vows in 1951, both also on September 8, which is the feast of the Birth of Mary. It is no wonder then, that she aspired to live Mary’s FIAT (“Be it done unto me according to your will.”) throughout her whole life. This first “Yes!” on her part proved to be a pattern for her entire life. It also helped her to develop the strength of character and the dependence upon God that created an attitude of ready availability.
Sr. Marie Clement’s freedom of spirit provided her with numerous challenging and enriching opportunities. She first studied pharmacology at the Cincinnati College of Pharmacy, receiving her BPH in 1951, and she worked in the pharmacy at St. Mary Hospital in Cincinnati, before becoming Director of the Pharmacy in St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Dayton. However, she was willing to set aside her educational preparation to meet the needs of the Congregation. After a few short years of ministry at the hospital, Sr. Marie Clement left for Rome, Italy in 1951 to study at the Pontifical Institute Regina Mundi. Here she received a Master’s in Sacred Science in 1957.
Upon returning to the U.S., Sr. Marie Clement served as a secretary and instructor at St. Clare
Convent, before becoming the Director of the Sisters in Temporary Vows from 1960-68. Her stay in the U.S. was short lived. In 1968, Sr. Marie Clement returned to Rome, serving in a variety of positions including Area Administrator and General Administrator from 1968 to 1988. During this time, she became fluent in Italian as well as learning to speak a little German.
During her time in Italy, Sr. Marie Clement faced her challenges with courage, love and devotion. Not only did she have to live in a different culture in community, but this was also a time of great transition within the Church and the formation period of religious life as well. She guided the younger generations of religious by word and deed, believing in their – and her own – ability to change and grow. Many of the sisters whom she guided and worked with during this time remember her fondly and with great gratitude for her encouragement.
Returning to the U.S. when she was elected to General Leadership (1988-92), Sr. Marie Clement
left her involvement in formation behind and entered upon more administrative duties. She now realized that by serving in leadership, she was having a big impact on the lives of others by the policies and key decisions that were made that influenced the Congregation’s ministry to those who were poor. Furthermore, she also became a “research assistant” to the SFP Foundation at this time, providing them with information that fueled their fundraising.
Sr. Marie Clement traveled overseas once again in 1993, when she was sent to foster our developing mission in Senegal for a short period of time. Looking at all things as an opportunity for further growth, Sr. Marie Clement went to live and minister at Pinecroft House of Peace, engaging in vocation ministry and inviting others to join her in hosting a variety of spiritual programs over the years. She so believed in the possibilities of the younger generation that she laid the groundwork for a youth program called Tau House, which encourages younger people to interface with those in need. The program is now 23 years old and continues under the guidance of the Franciscan Ministries.
Sr. Marie Clement never “officially” retired. She maintained her relationships with a wide range of people through written correspondence, phone contacts and even enjoyed visits through Skype!
Sister was active and connected with others to the end of her life. She was ever faithful to her first “Fiat” – “Let it be done unto me according to your will, O God.”
Sr. Jo-Ann Jackowski, SFP
Sr. Marie Clement Edrich
Just Like That
Dearest heart, you lived your faith,
and wherever you would go
Your happy smile just seemed to say,
Jesus loves you so.
And just like that, the day was bright,
alive with hope and light.
Your humble ways were beautiful –
a graceful bird in flight,
Your laughter, kindness, gratitude,
your faithfulness and love –
And just like that, your gifts live on,
sweet blessings from above.
© Beverly Kaye 2020
The following are some testimonials from our Sisters, Associates and Friends who remember with affection Sr. Marie Clement Edrich:
I know her Sr Marie Clement when I live with her for a year during my formation time with other candidates. She is a good woman easy to be with, kind hearted, always happy and you’ll love her easily. She has that listening heart and very supportive. Because I am very new to the place she tried to introduced me to her Filipino friends to be more at home. She is very resourceful, smart and peacemaker. She has lots of blessings as a religious she’s a precious gift to everyone especially to the Congregation. I thank God that I have that privilege to be with her and see God through her of what or who she is.
Sr. Teresita R. Samson, sfp
Don’t you know when you look at someone and immediately you think: “how I wish I could be like her!”? With Sr. Marie Clement that was the case for me. The months we lived together at Pinecroft Community, from October 2007 to June 2008, fortified this desire. How many questions, doubts, and curiosities I asked her during that period and how she welcomed and considered me with delicacy and boundless patience, giving me answers or staying by my side while some questions were suspended. In her I have always found a sister who was rooting for me and esteemed me with such genuine and cheerful goodness that it completely disconcerted me. I am rich for what she gave me, in feeling her allied with the gaze of those who love me and in having her as an example of life to inspire me as a woman, Christian and Franciscan Sisters of the Poor.
Sr. Jenny Favarin, sfp
I spent a wonderful time with Sr. Marie Clement. I remember when she came to Italy for my perpetual vows, she told me that it would be her last trip to Italy. She gave me a baby Jesus, telling me that she had had it for many years, she was so attached to it and that was why she gave it to me. I will never forget that moment because I realized that she was a woman who was free and open to giving at all times. During my three-month stay in the United States in 2017, it was nice to spend time with her, she corrected the English compositions that she had assigned to me, inviting me to talk about me, my experiences,…it was nice to give her small pieces of my life.
Sr. Francesca Vitulano, sfp
When I would have the good fortunate to sit with Sister Marie Clement at the table I would look into her sparkling eyes and relax knowing that who I am or what I would say would be respected, understood and welcome.
I wonder if we all didn’t feel that way about Sister for that was exactly what I always found her to be a loving, compassionate Sister. I can imagine heaven a buzz as Sister Mary Helen, Sister Rose Margaret, Sister Marquite and others gather to welcome her to that heavenly community -truly a Sister to all! We shall miss you here below.
Sr. Betty Igo, sfp
When I think of Sr. Marie Clement, the first image that comes into my mind is a smiling face and open arms.
Sr. Marie Clement was welcoming, capable of listening deeply, available to share and offer support, she knew how to give and receive affection with simplicity and gratitude, and she lived with deep faith… she was certainly a woman who knew how to make use of the talents God gave her!
I thank God for her life and the gift that she was. I have the certainty that from heaven she will continue to accompany our journey with affection, as she always did during her life. Thank you dear sister!
Sr. Giannica Selmo, sfp
Sr. Marie Clement was the oldest Sister in the Congregation at 95 years, yet she was one of the youngest in spirit.
She was open to everyone and dared to risk. She was enthusiastic about life and living. She believed in others and had a special spot for the broken. She was a teacher on life, leading by example. Above all else, she had an unwavering trust in God and daily lived her “fiat”. We were blessed by her presence among us.
Sr. Marilyn Trowbridge, sfp
We are sure that Sr. Marie Clement is contemplating the Face of God, whom she loved so much here on earth. I retain the unforgettable memories of living with her on many occasions in the United States. Testimony of faith, friendship, joy. A mature woman of Faith, consecrated to the Lord! Back in Brazil, we kept in touch and she sent beautiful messages, via internet, on various occasions: Easter, Christmas, Birthdays, etc.
May her soul rest in the arms of the Lord! We have another sister in heaven interceding for us who are still on our way to the Father’s House!
Sr. Helena Paula Carvalho, sfp
I did not know Sister Marie Clement well, but I want to share her insight into each other. She always found time to write to us when there was a personal event. I admired her big sister heart and the joy that could be read on her face. I thank the Lord for the gift she has been to the congregation.
Sr. Domitilde Manga, sfp
I had the honor of meeting Sr. Marie Clement and living with her for a few months in 2005-2006.
I loved her courage in sitting next to me to teach me how to drive her automatic transmission car.
I admired her ability to always see the positive side of people, her appreciation for every SFP, her open-mindedness, and her hearty laugh.
I learned from her to love whatever I am asked to do as an SFP and to believe in the skills which God has given me.
I remember her happily with her sister Susie on the day of my perpetual vows, bringing me all the love of the Sisters of the USA.
If I have to think of a credible SFP model in joy and tenacity, I think of her. She witnessed to me on a daily level that mutual love does not stop in the face of distances or differences. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, beloved “Schumacher of my heart”.
Sr. Wilma Molinari, sfp
On the occasion of my Perpetual Profession on August 25, 1961, Sr. Marie Clement wrote to me: “The Lord is not asking big things of you, but only great fidelity in little things performed with much love.” Words of wisdom and encouragement that have helped me on my daily SFP journey. Thank you, Sr. Marie Clement!
Sr. Mary Louise Sahm, sfp
When I was discerning which Franciscan congregation I wanted to transfer to, I was invited to attend Sr. Marie Clement’s Golden Jubilee Mass. I was waiting for the Mass to start, when an older Sister came out to speak before Mass. She was so gracious and warm, so self-assured and confident, I felt amazed at her composure. I turned to the Sister sitting next to me and asked who she was — and found out it was the Jubilarian, Sr. Marie Clement. I immediately said to myself, “if this is the way Sisters age in this Congregation, this is the place for me!” Thank you, Sister!!!
Sr. Jo-Ann Jackowski, sfp
Dearest Sr. Marie Clement, you left in peace to reach the “Mother House” in a very sad time, when we mourn so many loved ones victims of the pandemic and so much more. However, the trail of light you left here among us is so clear that nothing will be able to extinguish it. What an example you were to all of us! It was great to see you move around our communities here in Italy so naturally, always yourself with people of all ages, from the youngest to the elderly, smiling, available, in the front line. To those of us who were taking our first steps in religious life as daughters of Mother Frances, you taught a deep love for the Franciscan charism, a great open-mindedness and freedom of spirit. Without too many words, you made yourself sister and mother, transmitting to us acceptance, respect, and confidence in our potential to give. And if a doubt or a scruple assailed us, you were able to show us the way within ourselves to find the answer in prayer. Thank you for the gift of you! Continue to support us in our commitment to heal the wounds of Christ in the community of wounded and suffering life.
Sr. Tiziana Merletti, sfp
I received so much from Sr Marie Clement. Years ago she sent me a prayer to the Holy Spirit written on a piece of paper dated on July 11, 1955. That year she was in Rome to study theology at Regina Mundi and during the summer she helped Sr. Benedicta with the children of the parish of Vermicino. They became friends. Sr. Benedicta had given her the prayer she had received from her sister Sr. Irmgarda, who had died prematurely a few years earlier in Belgium. I keep this piece of paper passed from hand to hand as a sign of Sr. Marie Clement’s most beautiful gift: friendship in the Lord.
In the letter, Sr. Marie Clement quoted the prayer on the leaflet: “Let me not die until I have acquired perfect love” and wrote: “I always said to Benedicta: I won’t die since I will never get to perfect love!!! ».
Dear Sr. Marie Clement, you finally arrived at perfect love. Thank you for your big heart and your wisdom, for your ability to laugh at yourself and to smile at life. We will miss you so much but I am sure you will continue to encourage us and smile at us from Heaven.
Sr. Marvi Delrivo, sfp
I lived with Sr. Marie Clement at Pinecroft when I was sent to Cincinnati for my second year novitiate or ministry year and during my first year of temporary profession. I was then working as an Americorps Volunteer in an After School Program at St. Francis Seraph Grade School in downtown Cincinnati. Since I was in school five days a week, I was at home only during weekends. I left early in the morning and came home late in the afternoon just in time for community prayer and supper. She prepared most of the meals for the community composed of five sisters, including her. I remember the times when she took Frankie and I for a ride in the country side during autumn and it was always a happy moment. She was so interested in my work in school and the stories I had to tell about the children – their antics and the challenges of discipline. My volunteer work became a community affair when she initiated gift-giving to the children since they came from poor families. I lived with her for two years and will always remember these years as precious memories. It was always a joy to see her during the times I came to Cincinnati for assemblies.
In 2009, I was missioned in the Philippines and we wrote to each other occasionally by e-mail. In December of 2018, I came back to the US and Sr. Marie Clement was now a resident at Magnificat. My relationship with her grew more and it was such a delight to be with her when she had her little walks after supper by the porch of the convent. Together with Sr. Bernadette, we shared jokes or funny stories and Sr. Marie Clement had that hilarious and contiguous laugh we had so much fun. Oftentimes, she would call me to come to her room for some errands – such as, looking for something in her room, wrapping presents for her family, watering her plants, mailing her letters, among other things. She always stayed after our Communion Service to pray the rosary and the Divine Mercy. Many times, I have seen her in the Magnificat Chapel praying after supper before going to her room. There were occasions when Sr. Cristtina Di Nocco would call from Italy and I would go up to see Sr. Marie Clement so they could have video chats together with the other sisters. It was a joy to see her talk in Italian with each one.
That weekend before she died, I went to her room to pray. I asked her to pray with me the rosary and sing Salve Regina at the end. Suddenly, I heard her say the word “amazing”. I asked her, “what is so amazing, Sister”? She replied, “amazing grace”. So, I asked her, “Did you want to sing Amazing Grace”? Her response was “Yeah”! I said, “okay, we can sing together”. I started to sing and she followed, taking sometime to breathe to say the words with the melody. When we reached the fourth verse, with the lyrics, “Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come… ‘tis grace has brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.” I started to tear up and couldn’t sing so I tried to hum. I barely finished the last verse when I began to cry so I left her room and went to the chapel.
Sr. Marie Clement will always be an inspiration to me – a solid daughter of Mother Frances to the core and a true bride of Jesus, our Lord.
Sr. Armida Sison, sfp
Ever since I arrived in the community back in 1990, I heard enthusiastic talk about Sr. Marie Clement; the Italian Sisters mentioned her with much affection and gratitude. Finally, in 2011 I had the opportunity to share with her two months of life in Cincinnati. I take with me her benevolence, her love for people, her attention for each person. Thank you Sr. Marie Clement for the generous gift of your talents, for the intelligence and gratuitousness with which you followed God in every season of your life.
Sr. Marina Triglia, sfp
The very first time I met Sister Marie Clement, she was sharing a home w Sister June and Sister Mary / she quickly made me feel welcomed and I saw a special spirit that seemed to reside in her and on that day it was a comforting. She told me a good joke or two while she showed me around the house. Each time I met her after that was at St Claire’s, always welcoming me with a warm smile and listening heart. I will miss seeing her but memories of her will always be with me.
SFP Associate Denise Ingrassia
Sr. Marie Clement is the embodiment of the Franciscan spirit — generous, unccmplaining, kind, humble — she is the reason I became an Associate. She was a faithful sponsor during my years of covenant and renewals. I was honored to have her as a friend.
SFP Associate Kathy Hunt
Sister Marie Clement was a long time inspiration to Don and I. She was a humble, sweet friend who was a large part of our journey as associates. While we are happy for her to be in the presence our Father and Mother Frances, we will miss her dearly.
SFP Associates Don and June Rohling
Sr. Marie Clement exemplified graciousness, kindness, joy and above all- LOVE
Whenever I entered her room on Magnificat, her hospitality was felt! She shared your joy and eased your sorrow . Her genuine presence was a true gift!
God , who is pure love was her spiritual center! Evident also in her life was the beauty of all God’s creation! Art, music, flowers were all shared with others. I loved to hear her singing at mass, her voice praising God.
Change can be difficult but in her later years, Sister retained her zest for life, she took every opportunity to connect with others continuing to learn and mentor.
Sr. Marie Clement taught me the power of love, it changed me and made me better. For this, I am deeply grateful!
May God hold you in his LOVING hands ! You were loved on earth!
SFP Associate Anne Cabanas
I have so many good memories of Sr Marie Clement! When she was at Pinecroft, she welcomed me and many others to monthly days of prayer and other programs throughout the year. These programs would prove to be a lifeline for me! Then after she retired to St Clare’s, I enjoyed many hours playing Yatzee, and other games with her. It meant a lot to me to have that special time with her. She was always so positive and upbeat. She had a hearty laugh.I think of her as a woman of great faith and fidelity. A perfect role model.I am a better person for having known her. She will be greatly missed!
SFP Associate Karen Skillman
Sr. Marie Clement was my dear friend and spiritual mentor for 30 years. My introduction to the Philosophy of St. Francis, the life of Clare and Mother Frances was because of her. She was not only a natural leader but a true visionary for the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor and a remarkable woman. I was very fortunate to benefit from her love, faith in me and belief in my role as an Associate. My time spent with Sr. Christina and all of the Italian SFPs changed my life forever and it was all because of Sr. Marie Clement. More importantly she demonstrated how to be an active Christ follower who strives to be the hands and feet of our Savior. She once told me that maybe God gave me such a big heart to love all of God’s children as she knew I was contemplating my vocation. I think of that conversation often and it has influenced almost every life decision I have made regarding where to spend my time. Her constant prayers for my family have been a great comfort to me as a wife and mother. I have known her my entire adult life and although I am happy she is with Jesus and Mother Frances and is at peace and no longer in pain, I am devastated personally. Sr. Marie Clement radiated the joy one has when they are in relationship with Christ. What an incredible, selfless and humble woman who embodied what it is to be a Franciscan.
SFP Associate Maria Ciaudelli Cholak
Our family has known Sr. Marie Clement for more than 45 years. In all that time, she would always ask about the family and happily encourage us on our life’s journey and let us know that she was praying for us. Each day, she relayed that she prayed especially for Tom, who held a very special place in her heart as her godson of prayer. We have been so touched and honored to have such a loving person in our lives. We enjoyed several happy moments together as our family grew and Sister even got to visit with Tom’s young daughter while visiting New York.
When George and I were troubled by a family issue, Sr. Marie Clement listened very carefully, responded in a gentle, caring, and non-judgmental way, and immediately off the top of her head, recommended some great books on the topic of concern. What a great mind and heart she had! While she will be dearly missed, it is now her time for eternal peace and joy.
We love you Sister Marie Clement and we thank you for being part of our lives! Love forever,
SFP Associates Anne & George Raab & family
I had the opportunity to work closely with Sr. Marie Clement during the period when the Foundation was selecting and sponsoring nurses from Cincinnati to spend a year in Koungheul, Senegal. She worked directly with the candidates helping to prepare them for work among the poor and marginalized. Her warmth, calm, and dedication were an inspiration to all. The nurses loved her. She was incredibly cheerful with a wonderful laugh. She truly modelled a life of dedication and love.
Jeffrey Nichols, MD – SFP Foundation
My special thoughts of Sister is her patience, kindness and her beautiful and constant smile. She was there to listen, not to judge. Her love of God and her vocation poured out onto those of us who were fortunate enough to know and benefit from her love and knowledge. You will be missed, Sister, but your presence will be felt. Your friendship, smile and inspiration will be long remember. Thank you. Rest in Peace.
Terry McCarty
