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Nancy Fischer, SSJ
SisterBiography
Home Parish: St. John the Baptist, Erie, PA
Sister Nancy Fischer, SSJ, has devoted her religious life to education, pastoral ministry, and service to the Diocese of Erie. Born in Erie, Pennsylvania, on January 14, 1950, her educational journey included St. John the Baptist School, Villa Maria Academy, Villa Maria College, and La Salle University. She entered the Sisters of St. Joseph on September 1, 1968, from St. John the Baptist Parish in Erie, and professed her final vows on September 10, 1978.
Sister Nancy began her ministry in education at Villa Maria Elementary, where she served as a part-time teacher from 1969 to 1970. She continued teaching at St. Andrew School from 1970 to 1973 and Sacred Heart School from 1973 to 1975, teaching junior high social studies. From 1975 to 1976, she served as Coordinator of Student Activities at Villa Maria College. She then ministered at the Pupil Services Center from 1976 to 1977 as a home-school visitor and taught at St. John the Baptist School from 1977 to 1978.
From 1978 to 1985, Sister Nancy served at Sacred Heart in Erie as a social worker, guidance counselor, and minister. Her work then expanded into diocesan ministry, where she became Associate Director of RENEW from 1985 to 1986 and Director of RENEW from 1986 to 1989. These responsibilities were followed by a broader ministry in communications, formation, and lay ministry for the Diocese of Erie.
Beginning in 1989, Sister Nancy served in the Diocese of Erie in the area of communications, formation, and lay ministry. In 2011, she began serving as Director of the Office for Religious. Through her years of service, she has contributed to the Church’s work of supporting religious life, developing ministry, and fostering collaboration among those serving the people of the diocese.
Sister Nancy’s service has also included participation in diocesan, educational, and national organizations. Her board affiliations include Erie Catholic Preparatory, the National Alliance of Parishes, and the North American Forum. Her memberships include the Bishop’s Cabinet, the National Conference for Catechetical Leaders (NCCL), the National Association for Lay Ministry (NALM), and the National Conference of Vicars for Religious (NCVR).
Across decades of ministry, Sister Nancy has brought her education, experience, and dedication to a variety of roles within Catholic education and diocesan life. Her journey reflects a sustained commitment to serving the Church and supporting the people and ministries entrusted with her care.
