Sister Angela (Helen) Krisfalusy fell asleep in the Lord early Tues. morning, Aug. 9, 2011 at Mt. Macrina Manor. She had been a member of the Uniontown Province of the Sisters of St. Basil the Great for 74 years.
Sister Angela was born in Canonsburg, Pa., the daughter of the late Charles and Helen (Blyshak) Krisfalusy. She entered the community from St. Michael’s Byzantine Catholic Church in Canonsburg, PA on Nov. 21, 1937. Sister Angela pronounced her First Vows on Oct. 3, 1939 and made her Solemn Profession of Vows on Aug. 28, 1945 in the presence of the late Rev. Msgr. John Powell.
During her years in the community, Sister Angela was called to serve in a variety of ministries. Her principal ministry was as a teacher and principal in the many schools then existing in the Metropolitan Church of Pittsburgh and as a catechist in parishes in the summer. Sister Angela served twice in the administration of the Province. While serving in this capacity, she also discharged the duties of house coordinator during one term; during the other term, she served at St. Basil’s Home for Aging women. Before her complete retirement from active ministry, Sister Angela was sacristan at the Monastery as well as chauffeuring Sisters to their appointments.
Even at the young age of 15 years, Sister Angela firmly believed in her call to religious life and followed it faithfully over the course of seven decades. Her niece, Sister Josetta, cites Sister Angela’s example as the inspiration for her own vocation. While living at the monastery in semi-retirement, Sister Angela and her dear friend, Sister Frances could often be seen together, whether helping each other in some task or simply enjoying one another’s company. This relationship continued when both became residents at the Manor, and it was touching to see their care for one another. Sister Frances, without question, was among those who welcomed Sister Angela to her new home.
Sister Angela is fondly remembered for a phrase which was often on her lips, undoubtedly coming from her heart. Every translation limps, and this one is no exception. It was a quote she used when faced with a challenge, and one which the Sisters often repeated to her when visiting: “Lord, Lord, who will help us, if not you, Lord!” This same beloved Lord surely greeted her at her entrance into heaven
Sister Angela was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Charles and John and her sister Anna Finney. In addition to her Sisters in community, she is survived by her niece Sister Josetta, and several devoted nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends will be received at the Monastery Chapel on Thursday, August 11 from 3:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. The Parastas Service will be sung at 7:00 p.m.. The Funeral Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on Fri., Aug. 12 at 10:30 am in the Monastery Chapel. Interment will follow in the Dormition Section of Mount Macrina Cemetery. Stephen E. Kezmarsky III Funeral Home, Uniontown, is in charge of arrangements.