Sr. Ernestine Bongiovanni, 85, professed as an Apostle of the Sacred Heart of Jesus for 64 years

Sr. Ernestine Bongiovanni (Ernestine Bongiovanni) died peacefully on November 23, 2025 at Sacred Heart Manor, Hamden, CT.  She was 85 years old and professed as an Apostle of the Sacred Heart of Jesus for 64 years. Sr. Ernestine, daughter of the late Peter and Enez (De Simone) Bongiovanni, was born on December 21, 1939 in New Kensington, PA.  Sr. Ernestine entered the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on September 1, 1958 in Hamden, CT.  She professed First Vows on August 23, 1961 and Perpetual Vows on August 22, 1966 in Hamden, CT. 

Sr. Ernestine (also known as Sr. Mary Peter) was the beloved niece of the late Sr. Ursula Bongiovanni, ASCJ and cherished cousin to many. She is also lovingly remembered by her religious family, the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and by her friends and former co-workers. As Sr. Ernestine’s health declined, she was very lovingly cared for by the dedicated staff and sisters of Sacred Heart Manor. 

Sr. Ernestine began her ministry at St. Anthony Home in New Haven, CT in 1960. She lovingly served the special needs community at Clelian Heights in Greensburg, PA for 17 years. Ernestine retired to Sacred Heart Manor in 2010 where she faithfully fulfilled her mission as an Apostle Adorer. Sr. Ernestine loved music, as she played the piano, organ and guitar, praising God with her musical talents. She is fondly remembered for her great kindness, patience and simplicity.

The wake for Sr. Ernestine took place on November 30, 2025 at Sacred Heart Manor Chapel, 261 Benham St., Hamden, CT.  A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on December 1, 2025 at Sacred Heart Manor Chapel, followed by the burial at All Saints Cemetery, North Haven, CT.