Gertrude Barber: Exploring her Life and the Journey to Sainthood
A young teacher who wanted to be a missionary would go on to change the future for children and adults with intellectual disabilities and their families in her community and beyond. Learn about the forces that shaped Dr. Gertrude Barber's vision to bring hope and opportunity to those shut out by society. From its start in a one-room borrowed classroom, the organization that bears Dr. Barber's name now serves more than 6,200 persons across Pennsylvania and is a resource for professionals across the nation. This presentation will also explore how a cause for her canonization opened in 2019 and what happens on the journey that could lead to sainthood for this trailblazing woman and Erie native.
Location: Jefferson Educational Society – 3207 State St. Erie, Pa 16508
Date/Time: Wednesday, September 28 @ 7 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Parking: lot behind building, State st., French St. 32nd St., 33rd St.
Please read our full Covid-19 policy here (updated July 21, 2022).
As the Executive Vice President of the Barber National Institute, Dr. Maureen Barber-Carey provides leadership for the Elizabeth Lee Black School serving more than 200 children ages 3-21 with autism, intellectual and physical disabilities, and behavioral health challenges from throughout northwestern Pennsylvania. Serves on many local and statewide organizations including the Advisory Board of PNC Grow Up Great. Dr. Barber-Carey holds a doctorate from Columbia University and is a recognized expert in the treatment of autism, and the author of the blog, “All About Autism” that addresses a wide range of topics relating to autism.
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In his role as Postulator, Monsignor Thomas McSweeney is involved in exploring the path to sainthood for Dr. Gertrude Barber and in fostering greater understanding about the canonization process. Msgr. McSweeney retired from a distinguished career that included serving as national director of The Christophers (NYC), the founding chairman of the Department of Theater and Communication Arts (Gannon University) and as an analyst for MSNBC/NBC, providing insight during live national coverage of the elections of two Popes, as well as major issues and events involving the Catholic Church in America. Msgr. McSweeney holds academic degrees in Philosophy (Saint Bonaventure), Theology and Rhetoric (Catholic University of America) and Public Communication (Maryland University).
