Born and raised in Erie, I was part of a loving, creative family. I recognize that the depths of the unconditional love of my parents and early formation in a family of Christian believers grounded me for future tasks, struggles and challenges.

My current philosophy is to live in the present moment with a listening ear and a wide-open heart. I attempt to live guided by my title, Pax – the Peace of Christ – received at my final profession. The Benedictine witness of prayer, community, peace and justice making resonates with the “call” I experienced as a lay teacher in 1962 at St. Mary School.

The Gospel reminds us of Jesus’ invitation to “lay down one’s life” with the assurance that we have been given everything needed to “bear fruit that will last.” To this day, I depend on these sacred words. Their roots continue to deepen in me. I rejoice in our Jubilee and celebrate all those persons, events and creation itself that form me.

Perhaps any future goals could fall under just one: to seek wisdom, believing it is within me as that is where God and I reside most intimately.

Sister Carolyn Gorny-Kopkowski ministered in education for 20 years, both as an elementary and secondary teacher, as well as an elementary administrator before undertaking the ministry of spirituality in which she still serves. Sister Carolyn facilitates retreats and days of reflection for many different groups at the Erie monastery and around the country. She has held numerous positions in the community including: Administrator of Glinodo Conference Center, sub-prioress of the Benedictine Sisters, Director of Human Development, and Director of Novices and Sisters transferring from other communities. In addition, she was one of the founding sisters of the Emmaus Soup Kitchen.