After 45 years of service, Sister Irene Pryle, SSND, has retired from her ministry as principal of Our Lady of Hope/St. Luke School in Dundalk, MD.
She was beloved by all, as evidenced both by pictures of the staff wearing Sister Irene t-shirts commemorating her tenure, and by the long list of loving comments on the school's Facebook page:
"Her leadership, faith, and profound impact on generations of students, families, and educators will echo in our halls for years to come."
"I will be forever grateful and in awe of your kindness and caring for me."
"Thank you for reinforcing values that Mom and Dad taught me at home."
"Thank you for encouraging me to grow!"
"You will never be replaced."
"You will remain in our hearts forever."
Sister Irene will cherish her school memories, along with the honor she earned from Pope Francis in 2023, when she received the Cross Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice.
Archbishop William E. Lori, who presided over the service, explained the honor as one conferred by the pope in recognition and gratitude for "contributions in education, evangelization, and service.”
As her staff and students would say, Sister Irene is simply "The best of the best!"
