Sister Mary Redempta Bradley, CDP
November 24, 1930 – July 19, 2020
Sister Mary Redempta, (formerly Sister Mary Leonita) Bradley, CDP, entered eternal life on July 19, 2020 at the age of 89. She was the third of four children born to John William and Mary Agnes (Schlecht) Bradley. Sister Redempta was born November 24, 1930 in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. She answered God’s call to become a Sister of Divine Providence on June 21, 1950 and professed first vows on June 22, 1951 Sister Redempta began her ministry as a teacher then served as a Director of Religious Education.
Sister Redempta earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Our Lady of the Lake University, a Master of Arts in Theology from St. Mary’s University, San Antonio, Texas and a Master’s Certificate in Pastoral Ministry from Loyola Institute for Ministry, New Orleans, Louisiana. Sister Redempta taught for 16 years and was a Director of Religious Education for 25 years in Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. She was a Pastoral Care Coordinator for the Congregation for five years.
Sister Redempta gratefully credits her parents, her home life and her Catholic upbringing for her vocation. She recognized how the support and fellowship of her Sisters of Divine Providence encouraged her to take on ministerial challenges. In the 1960’s Sister Redempta answered the call of the Vatican II Council to enter into pastoral ministry. She prepared herself to become a Director of Religious Education (DRE) and was innovative and vibrant in this role. She found joy in enabling lay persons to become effective catechists and youth ministers. She effectively and tenderly planted the seed in her catechists and parent volunteers to deepen and expand their commitment to their respective parish communities. In all her ministries and throughout her life, Sister Redempta responded in the spirit of Jesus with joy, encouragement, a listening and compassionate heart, a helping hand and an ever-present smile.
She is survived by her sibling, Lorraine (Charles) Fritch, and all her Sisters of Divine Providence. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents John William and Mary Agnes (Schlecht) Bradley and siblings: Loretta (Dale) Kohles and Charles Bradley.
A rosary and prayer service will be held on Tuesday. A Mass of Resurrection and burial will take place on Wednesday. All services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, you may wish to make a memorial contribution to the Sisters of Divine Providence, 515 S.W. 24th Street, San Antonio, Texas 78207-4619.
Obituary (pdf)