Sister Maurita Hartney
Sister's Irish Spirit Eases Patients' Minds
Submitted by Margot Cook, former neighbor, employee and volunteer
to Holy Cross Hospital
A smiling, playful Irish woman took on pastoral care work at Holy Cross Hospital from 1964 until 1976. Born in Kildimo, County Limerick, Sister Maurita Hartney entered the Sisters of the Holy Cross and served in several locations and ministries over the years. She was most at home when she was in a position to cheer people up or to console them.
She was tiny and sprightly, keeping a brisk pace as she visited patients’ rooms. She used her Irish humor and wit to help them take their minds off their ailments. She was quoted: “My main goal is to help people – offer support and help them cope. If I help one patient every day, then I have done what I need to do.”
Over the years, Sister Maurita helped far more than one person a day. What a modest understatement from this dear lady!