Sr. Rose Carmel Berberich, SFP
November 18, 1924 – February 9, 2018
Despite declining health and the loss of hearing in her later years, Sr. Rose Carmel Berberich was an excellent communicator of what mattered in life. With a twinkle in her eye and a smile upon her lips, she managed to convey to all those who encountered her that true life is about our relationship with God that flows into our relationships with one another.
Mary Margaret was born to Aloysius and Margaret Berberich, on November 18, 1924, in Dayton, OH, giving the family one more blessing to celebrate on Thanksgiving Day that year.
She was one of 3 daughters and 5 sons, growing up in a family that nurtured the special gifts each child possessed. Along with Al, Vic, Thomas, Joe, Joanne, Carl and Ullainee, Mary Margaret graduated from St. Anthony Elementary School in Dayton, and she would have gone on to a local high school as well, if not for the invitation of God.
Mary Margaret probably learned about the Franciscan Sisters of the Poor thru their frequent “begging trips” throughout southwestern Ohio, seeking food and donations for the poor to whom they ministered in their hospitals and social service centers. Responding to the call of the Spirit, she came to St. Clare Convent and attended Our Lady of the Angels High School, graduating and entering the Novitiate on July 16, 1943. In honor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel whose feast day was being cele-brated that day, Mary Margaret received the name Rose Carmel.
An eager student with a sharp mind, Sr. Rose Carmel continued with her studies, receiving her BA in Sociology from the University of Dayton. She ministered in Social work at a variety of our social ser-vice centers before becoming Assistant Director, and later Director of the Aspirancy for nearly 16 years. In this capacity, Sr. Rose Carmel influenced and shaped the hearts and minds of many young women, some of whom went on to become Sisters as well. She not only nurtured their relationship with God and taught the subjects necessary for high school students, but also gave them practical tips about cooking and sewing clothing.
During this time, she also pursued a Masters Degree in Education/Theology from Xavier University. Her studies lit a flame that would nourish her spirit, consume her life and engage her talents for the rest of her life.
It was at this time that her quiet, contemplative spirit would flourish. Together with other Sisters of like-minded hearts, they formed a group called “Resurrection House”, a place for contemplation, re-treat and prayer. Located first in the Aspirancy, it later moved to Pinecroft House of Peace, where people could join the Sisters for liturgy and prayer.
After many years in active ministry, tending to impoverished families and nourishing the spiritual lives of young adults, Sr. Rose Carmel went back to school once again, this time to Moler-Hollywood Beauty College, to refocus her artistic talents as a hair stylist.
With a characteristic twinkle in her eye, she brought out the beauty in aging faces by styling hair of older residents at Franciscan Terrace. Since she was accompanied each time by her faithful companion, Frances, she brought joy and a new interest in life to many hearts as well. While Rose cut hair, Frances would stand by the elevator and wait for staff to push the button so she could go from floor to floor and room to room visiting all who wanted to see her, an unusual sight, since Frances was a dog!!!
Well-known for her gifts of wisdom and truth-speaking, many persons sought Sr. Rose Carmel out and greatly profited by her counsel over the span of her entire life. She always seemed to be sister and friend to many who treasured their relationship with her.
Sr. Rose Carmel was a lover of nature, which was made evident by her daily walks and her retreats to the country for renewal. She thoroughly enjoyed her time planting and gardening, as well as elegantly preparing the fruits of her labors to share with others. It was always a special treat to be invited to her table.
Her love of beauty was evidenced by her becoming an avid painter and candle maker. When she moved to St. Clare Convent in 2010, Sr. Rose engaged the other sisters in the arts, some of them discovering talents that had lain dormant until Sr. Rose invited and engaged them. Her beautifully decorated door hangers with the image of Mother Frances painted on them adorned many a door in convent and home, and many cherish other pictures and boxes decorated with her painted flowers.
By 2013, Sr. Rose Carmel, tired by years of ministry, relaxed with God and returned to the contemplative lifestyle that nourished her spirit so much. Her ministry became one of prayer and presence, and many came to depend on her prayers for health and wellbeing.
Throughout her life, Sr. Rose stayed in touch with her family. She celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and weddings with each of them, and even enjoyed visits to her brother, Joe after he moved to Alaska, and Vic who had moved to Texas. Computer technology confounded her, but for several years, she managed to stay in touch with family through emails.
So fully did Sr. Rose Carmel live life that it seemed only fitting that God came for her in a quieting morning moment on February 9th, to say to her for all eternity, “Come to me and find rest for your soul.”
Written by Sr. Jo-Ann Jackowski, sfp
The following are some testimonials from our Sisters who remember with affection Sr. Rose Carmel Berberich:
I met Sr. Rose Carmel during my last trip to the Us. She was already very sick and in need of care and attention that all the Sisters and staff of the Magnificat reserved her with such sweetness and kindness. I am witness to a race of love by everyone to make sure that Sr. Rose Carmel could go downstairs to attend Mass and eat meals with all the Sisters. Sr. Rose Carmel has witnessed to me so much humility, letting herself be loved even in sickness and suffering. (Sr. Francesca Vitulano)
During my stay in Cincinnati, Sr. Rose Carmel would always welcome me with attentive eyes and a smile on her face. She’d always respond to my jokes and answer my questions sincerely, which surprised some of us due to her health condition. It was lovely to get to know her in a closer manner. I’ll always carry with me our sweet times together. (Sr. Thalyta Pereira Lima)
Sister Rose Carmel was very talented and helpful to others. As an Aspirant Directress many years ago, she had a wonderful way of always making you feel worthwhile. And she was willing to do many things and even taught religion to little kids in St. Henry in the 1970’s. Her prayerfulness made her an outstanding religious. God bless her! (Sr. Madonna Hoying)
She didn’t need to speak. Her wide welcoming smile said it all! (Sr.Betty Igo)
Sister Rose Carmel was the Assistant Mistress in the Aspirancy when I went to visit the Aspirancy as an 8th grader, invited by the Sisters in Flint MI, my home town, as well as when I returned for my first and second year of high school, and when I entered from there. She was my role model, a wonderful support then and throughout my religious life. She always had a positive view to share in life’s situations. (Sr. Mary Jacinta Doyle)
I loved visiting her and sharing our love of art and painting. She had such a kind and sweet spirit. (Susan)
Rose Carmel was a life-learner. She took on a new ministry in mid-life and made space and time to develop her gifts and talents to the delight and joy of many. (Sr. Marilyn Trowbridge)
