At 113 years old, Sister Francis Dominici Piscatella is quietly redefining longevity and purpose.
The Long Island-based nun, recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest nun, marked her milestone on Sunday surrounded by family, faith, and more than a century of memories.
Born in 1913, Piscatella entered religious life at 17, joining the Sisters of St. Dominic in Amityville in 1931.
Since then, she has lived a life shaped by steady devotion, centred on service and faith rather than recognition. Reflecting on her age, she said, “I have given up counting my years,” said Piscatella.
Her life has also included early adversity. As a child, an accident led to the amputation of part of her arm, an experience that could have limited her. Instead, she describes it as part of her resilience.
“I was a teacher and a Dominican sister, I had to show them that the fact I had half an arm couldn’t in any way impede me in any way, there was nothing I couldn’t do that a person with two hands could do,” Piscatella said.
That determination carried her through decades in education. She spent more than 50 years teaching, including a long tenure as a professor at Molloy College, influencing generations of students and building a legacy rooted in mentorship and consistency.
Family members describe her warmth and clarity of mind. “She’s very sweet, has a lot of great life advice,” said her great-great-niece Alexa Grimley. At her birthday celebration, family gathered to honour her life. “It’s very kind of everybody who came and made this a lovely day,” Piscatella said.
Her lifetime has also spanned major historical and religious milestones. She has lived through the leadership of 11 popes and recently received a special proclamation from Pope Leo XIV during her birthday celebration.
Despite her age, Piscatella remains grounded in routine and faith. “Just learn what God wants you to do and do it,” she said.
Her story echoes that of other long-lived religious figures, including Inah Canabarro Lucas, whose life has also been defined by faith and structure.