For over four years, St. Mary Parishioners in need were supported by the generosity of a remarkable fund established in honor of Sister Joan Brennan. In November 2020, an anonymous donor, deeply moved by love and gratitude for Sister Joan’s lifetime of service to the parish, created the Sister Joan Fund. This fund wasn’t just a financial resource—it was a living tribute to a woman who dedicated her life to faith, compassion, and service. Sister Joan’s motto, F.R.O.G.—Fully Rely on God—guided the fund, as it did her every action.
The Sister Joan Fund became a lifeline to Ridgefield residents and St. Mary’s parishioners alike, quietly delivering help where it was most desperately needed. Through this extraordinary gift, over $545,000 was distributed, supporting more than 100 unique situations and impacting the lives of nearly 400 individuals.
Working closely with Ridgefield Social Services, RVNAhealth, Boys & Girls Club of Ridgefield, and the parish community, a small, dedicated team carried out this mission with deep respect, empathy, and care. Under the spiritual guidance of Monsignor Royal, they listened to each story, discerned each need, and answered each cry for help with thoughtfulness and prayer.
Today, as the Sister Joan Fund concludes its mission, its legacy endures. Each rent payment made, each medical bill covered, each warm meal shared—every act of kindness carries the unmistakable imprint of Sister Joan’s spirit: a spirit that believed fully, and taught others to Fully Rely on God. Sister Joan passed away on Holy Thursday, April 17, and though the fund has come to its natural end, the love it set in motion remains alive, quietly woven into the lives it lifted and the hearts it touched.
In honoring Sister Joan Brennan, the Sister Joan Fund did exactly what she spent her life doing: quietly, humbly, and faithfully loving others and Fully Relying On God!