Benedictine Sister Andrea Verchuck died Jan. 6 at age 95 at St. Benedict Monastery in Bristow. Her life as a Benedictine Sister of Virginia was filled with joy for monastic life and zeal for God’s people.
Josephine Veronica Verchuck was born May 26, 1929, in Crabtree, Pa. She was the seventh of eight children born to Paul and Justyna Verchuck, Polish immigrants. At age 15, she entered the monastery in Bristow.
Her many assignments included teaching, counseling, serving as principal, being responsible for the initial formation of sisters, and working as house superior in both the Arlington and Richmond dioceses. She served her community as prioress from 1979 to 1987 and again from 1999 to 2003. With her melodious voice, she contributed to the beauty of the monastery liturgies.
Sister Andrea was known for her love and compassion for people, and many sought her listening presence and advice. She helped start the community’s Appalachian Project and supported the Benedictine Sisters in Mexico in their care for children.
Sister Andrea was a prolific fundraiser and was instrumental in raising funds for the building of a new monastery. One of her last projects was the new prayer garden that will be installed on the site of the former monastery. She envisioned a place of prayer, peace and refuge for those who would visit the garden.
A vigil service will be held at St. Benedict Monastery Jan. 16 at 6:30 p.m., and a Mass of Resurrection will be offered Jan. 17 at 10:30 a.m. with burial following at the monastery cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Prayer Garden Project of the Benedictine Sisters of Virginia.
