Sister Catherine Aloyse Butler

“Now he’s using you, fitting you in brick by brick, stone by stone, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone … .” (Ephesians 2:20)

“As Scripture states, we are the building blocks. We were called and came together to this sacred ground to complete and integrate our stories, gifts, talents and personalities … which, in turn, is a form of thanksgiving and praise to our Creator. Sister Catherine Aloyse’s compliment in our regard is that she chose to work and live among us,” said Sister Ruth Johnson in her commentary for Sister Catherine Aloyse Butler, who died March 22.

Born March 17, 1914, in Chicago, to Frank and Catherine Busch Butler, Blanche Patricia Butler was one of seven children. She attended St. Frances of Rome Grade School, Cicero, Ill., and graduated from Providence High School, Chicago. She entered the Congregation July 16, 1935, and professed first and perpetual vows Jan. 23, 1938, and Aug. 15, 1943, respectively. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.

Sister Catherine Aloyse began teaching grade school students at St. Mary, Lafayette, Ind., in 1938. Her other Indiana classrooms included St. Joan of Arc and St. Patrick, Indianapolis; St. Joseph and Holy Family, Jasper; St. Jude, Fort Wayne; and Sacred Heart, Evansville. In Illinois, she ministered at Sacred Heart, Lockport; and St. Sylvester, St. Andrew and Our Lady of Mercy, Chicago. Sister Catherine Aloyse spent three years at Holy Redeemer, College Park, Md. She returned to the Woods in 1984 and volunteered in a variety of roles.

“One of Sister Catherine Aloyse’s favorite missions was St. Mary in Lafayette where she taught second grade. During Catholic Schools Week in 2003, a letter came from St. Mary Grade School in which the staff members and student body paid tribute to the Sisters of Providence who taught there and especially mentioned Sister Catherine Aloyse as an example of dedication that the Congregation brought to the children and parents of that area,” shared Sister Ruth.

Sister Ruth continued by sharing more personal information about Sister Catherine Aloyse’s life.

“Sister Catherine Aloyse was a listener. In her lifetime, she experienced family misfortune and complicated health conditions, yet she showed a subtle sense of humor and appreciated community companionship.

“Among Sister Catherine Aloyse’s personal belongings was found a very detailed account of the Butler family tree — a complete line from 1066 to 1999. She is credited with the discovery and compilation of the important background of their Irish/English heritage,” said Sister Ruth.

“We lift our voices and spirits in farewell to Sister Catherine Aloyse. She is complete and enjoying the love and promises of our God,” said Sister Ruth.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Sister Catherine Aloyse was celebrated March 30 with the Rev. Bernard Head presiding. Sister Catherine Aloyse is survived by one brother, Don.