2021 Jubiliarian
Sister Callista Williamson set aside her childhood dreams of calling professional baseball games to follow God’s call into religious life, entering the community in 1951 from Holy Rosary in Pittsburgh.
Describing her ministry of teaching elementary students – mostly first-graders – as “a joy, not a job,” Sister Callista brought enthusiasm and zeal into the classroom for 42 years, cheerfully instructing her students and helping them to believe in themselves.
Beginning in 1954, Sister Callista served in several Pittsburgh Diocesan schools before moving on to St. Andrew in Columbus, OH (1966-72; 1976-85) and returning to Baden (1985-96) where she was recognized by students and peers at Mt. Gallitzin Academy with the “Golden Apple” award of excellence. In nominating his teacher for the award, a third-grader wrote “Sister Callista never gave up on me. She is the perfect example of a teacher to me.”
An avid sports fan who roots for Ohio State and the Pittsburgh Pirates, Sister Callista enjoys puzzles, mystery novels, and most of all, time spent with other Sisters and Motherhouse staff. “It’s the relationships that bring me great joy, and make me a better person,” she says, grateful to live each day from “the gift of God’s love.”
Send a note to Sister Callista or make a donation in her honor.