Sister Mary Bridget Haase, OSU, a devoted Ursuline Sister, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2024, in Waterville, Maine, at the age of 82. Her life was a testament to service, faith, and the power of storytelling, touching countless lives across the globe.
Born on June 30, 1942, in New Orleans, Sister Bridget entered the Ursuline community on July 15, 1959, and professed her vows on January 16, 1962. Her ministry began in education, where she taught elementary and high school students across Missouri, Illinois, Louisiana, Texas, and West Virginia. Her early teaching career included roles at St. Peter School and St. Joseph School in Missouri. She also served in Ursuline Academy in New Orleans, her hometown, and taught at Marquette High School in Alton, Illinois, before dedicating herself to the underserved communities of Appalachia in West Virginia.
However, her commitment to serving those in need extended beyond U.S. borders. In the late 1980s, during a devastating famine, Sister Bridget worked in Sudan, East Africa, feeding starving children. She continued her work in Senegal and later served the Ursuline province in Mexico. These years of global ministry reflected her deep compassion and unwavering resolve to uplift the less fortunate.
Upon returning to the United States, Sister Bridget served as an early child-care educator in San Antonio, Texas, before moving to Massachusetts in 1996. There, her ministries evolved to address the spiritual needs of the chronically ill in Mattapan and Boston. While there, she coordinated the spiritual direction programs, and her role as “Sister Storyteller” brought joy and inspiration to the youth of Boston.
Beyond her work as an educator and aid worker, Sister Bridget was a gifted author and speaker. She wrote six books and numerous articles on faith and spirituality. She traveled extensively across the country, giving parish missions, inspirational talks, and days of reflection. Alongside her brother, Father Albert Haase, OFM, she co-hosted the radio show Spirit and Life on Relevant Radio, offering spiritual nourishment to listeners nationwide.
In 2009, Sister Bridget’s impactful work was featured on NBC Nightly News’ “Making a Difference” segment, a fitting tribute to her life’s mission. She also served on the board of My Sister’s Keeper, a justice and peace organization dedicated to the education of women and girls in underserved countries.
Despite her many accolades, Sister Bridget remained deeply humble, attributing her achievements to God’s guidance. Her passion for storytelling allowed her to connect with people of all ages, offering wisdom and comfort through her words.
Sister Bridget is survived by her sister, Sister Courtney Haase, COC, and three brothers, Boris Conrad Haase III, Francis Phillip Haase, and Father Albert Haase, OFM. She now rests in eternal peace, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and faith that will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.
