Maria M. Torres Melendez, CDP

Sister Maria Milagros Torres Meléndez entered religious life from her home town of Morovis, Puerto Rico. While studying elementary and special education at the University of Interamericana of Puerto Rico, in Arecibo, she was invited to a vocation retreat, where she met Sister Mary Providence Kriley. She credits her with influencing her decision to enter religious life. She went on to earn a master’s degree on a government scholarship.

She ministered at Colegio San Felipe in Arecibo (1989-92), and since 1992, she has ministered as an elementary education teacher at Rafael Martinez Nadal Elementary School and other public schools in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. She was also the Associate coordinator in Puerto Rico. After her retirement, she moved to Pittsburgh. Currently, she is the Activities Director in St. Joseph Center for the Sisters at The Commons.

In 1997, Sister Maria was honored in the senate of Puerto Rico for being chosen Teacher of the Year (on island level). In 1998, she was again honored as Teacher of the Year (on island level) by the civic group Jesus T. Piñero.

Sister Maria considers being a visible sign of God’s love for others as the most important aspect of the Community’s charism. She nurtures her growth through the Eucharist. As an only child, her elderly parents were proud that God chose their daughter to become a religious. When she entered the Community, her parents didn’t feel as if they’d lost a daughter; rather, they felt as if they’d gained a community of daughters.

Describing herself as happy, joyful, and enthusiastic, Sister Maria enjoys praying, reading, and interacting with people.

CLICK HERE to make a gift in honor of Sister Maria's 40th Jubilee.