Ann Marie Gass SSJ

Name: Ann Marie Gass, SSJ

Hometown: Oxon Hill, MD

Entrance Date: August 15, 1998

First Profession Date: August 4, 2002

Final Profession Date: July 22, 2007

Present Ministry: 1st Grade Teacher

What attracted you to Religious Life?

I was taught by the Sisters of Saint Joseph in grade school. I always noticed how the Sisters had fun together, took an authentic interest in the students and families and had a deep sense of commitment to Jesus and prayer. I knew since the age of 7 that I wanted to be a teacher. From Seventh Grade on I also, unconsciously at first, realized I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself.

What do you enjoy most about being a sister?

I love being a Sister of Saint Joseph! I feel that it encourages me to be my best self. Each day I have the opportunity to share my faith, talents, ideas and creativity with my community, students and all those I meet. I have had so many wonderful experiences in working with, living with and getting to know people I would never have imagined on my own. Most of all I have the chance to share with others the many blessings I have received.

What kind of ministries have you done over the course of your Religious Life?

I have taught 1st grade for 8 years in Washington DC and 10 years in Newark, NJ. I love working in the inner city and both schools have been in the African-American and African communities. I have also been an Aftercare teacher for grades K-8 and co-direct our school’s Liturgical Dance group. As a Novice I also had the opportunity to volunteer at a soup kitchen in Philadelphia, teach art to special needs students, help at Saint Joseph Villa with our elderly Sisters and lay people, and teach ESL and prepare persons for the citizenship test in Roslindale, MA.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love to go to the shore, especially Cape May and Sea Isle, walking, reading and visiting friends.