Eager to complete her life’s journey, Sister Agnes Herbenick (formerly Sister Stephen) was welcomed home by the Lord on Saturday afternoon, March 2, 2024, at Mt. Macrina Manor.   The Manor was the last place of Sister’s active ministry, and it was from there that she took the final steps into God’s Kingdom.  Her passing is felt deeply by all staff and residents alike, to whom she ministered as the pastoral care director for several years with great love and fidelity.

Sister Agnes was born in Lyndora, PA, the daughter of the late John and Mary (Katana) Herbenick. She entered the Sisters of St. Basil from St. John’s Byzantine Catholic Church in Lyndora, PA on October 1, 1958, and made her Final Profession of Vows on August 22, 1964.

As a Sister of St. Basil Sister Agnes devoted 50 years of her life to the education ministry. It was a ministry that she enjoyed, and this was evident in the energy and good humor she brought to her students.

Throughout these 50 years of teaching, Sister Agnes ministered in the eparchies of Pittsburgh, Parma, and Passaic with a joy and bright spirit that was evident.

As it became apparent that the Lord would soon call her home, she had the opportunity to speak with a few family members. To one in particular, whose tears were apparent, she said, “Please don’t cry; this is what I’ve been waiting for my whole life. “Even through the journey of death, Sister Agnes continues to teach all of us, and to model a grace and gentle spirit that was characteristics of her life as a Sister of St. Basil.

Sister Agnes loved to laugh and found humor in the most mundane things. She had a love of life, a love of her community, and a love for her family. As one of fourteen children, she had many nieces and nephews and grandnieces and nephews. She faithfully acknowledged birthdays, holidays, and celebrations throughout the year. She kept in touch with so many, and even as she became weaker, she desired to stay in touch via a greeting card or text. She loved her family very much, and they loved her.

Sister Agnes was preceded in death by her parents and her many siblings: John, Michael, Stephen, William, Joseph, George, Paul, Frank, Mary Stanko, Margaret, Ann, Helen Villani, and Andrew. In addition to the members of her community, she is survived by many devoted nieces, nephews, and their children.

Relatives and friends will be received at the Monastery on Monday, March 4, from 3:30 pm to the time of the Parastas Service at 6:30 pm. Metropolitan Archbishop William Skurla will celebrate the Funeral Divine Liturgy on Tuesday, March 5 at 10:30 am in the Monastery Chapel.

Interment will follow in the Dormition Section of Mount Macrina Cemetery.

Donald R. Crawford Funeral Home in Hopwood is in charge of arrangements.