María Dolores Mairlot, faithful servant who inspired thousands

Sister María Dolores Mairlot, 91, passed away Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to the Latino community. 

She was born in Asturias, Spain, June 8, 1933, and raised in a family of four sisters among the region's olive groves, discovering her passions for music and service to others. She became a talented piano teacher and later pursued a career in nursing in England. In 1953, she joined the Carmelite Sisters of Charity, Vedruna, in Madrid, where she became a devoted missionary with multiple talents.

In 1980, many sisters from England and the Caribbean moved to the East Coast of the U.S. to help the increasing number of Spanish-speaking immigrants coming to Washington and New York. During this time, the Carmelite Sisters discovered a growing number of women living on the city streets. Sister María and others founded Mount Carmel House, a shelter for homeless women, and she worked as a nurse at both D.C. General Hospital and the Spanish Catholic Center in Maryland.

In 1995, Sister María moved to Georgetown to serve the growing Hispanic population alongside Sisters Rosa Alvarez and Ascensión Banegas. Together, they became beacons of hope for thousands of immigrants in need.

As a pastoral associate at Saint Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, Sister María served the Hispanic community with love and devotion. She taught faith formation, prepared couples for marriage, mentored church leaders, and directed choirs. Her musical talents inspired many young people to play piano and sing.

Beyond her church duties, Sister María helped over 30 families buy their first homes, served as an interpreter and advocate for families in medical appointments, and supported the establishment of essential community organizations.

In 2003, Sister María received the Governor's Outstanding Volunteer Award for her many hours of faith-based volunteer work at Saint Michael the Archangel Catholic Church.

In May 2010, she was honored with the Papal Honor, the Benemerenti Medal, by Pope Benedict XVI for her service to the church. This medal, meaning "good merit," was approved by Bishops Saltarelli and Malooly. It is awarded to a select group of religious and lay people in recognition of their exceptional accomplishments and service to the church.

In September 2010, the community chose Sister Maria for an HOLA Award, recognizing her love, compassion, support, and dedication to the Latino community.

Sister María's impact on the community is still felt today through the organizations and events she helped create, including El Centro Cultural, Festival Hispano, Caroling on The Circle, La Casita, La Esperanza Community Center, Primeros Pasos Child Care Center, La Red Health Center, and The Rosa Health Center.

In 2017, Sister María retired and returned to Washington, D.C., where she spent her remaining years with her Carmelite Sisters. She will be deeply missed, but her beautiful memories and legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. 

A memorial mass will be held in her honor.

Donations can be made to The Rosa Health Center in her memory, therosahealthcenter.org/donate.htm.