Patricia Reif, IHM

Patricia (Pat) Reif, also known as Sister Richard, (May 6, 1930 – March 24, 2002), was an American professor of philosophy and theology, known locally and nationally for her involvement in ecumenical issues, for her innovative leadership in the field of feminist spirituality and for her leadership in the Women's Ordination Conference. She was a founding member and leader of the ecumenical Immaculate Heart of Mary Community established in 1970 in Los Angeles as a result of irreconcilable differences between Cardinal James F. McIntyre over the implementation of Vatican II reforms. Along with the 455 vowed members of the canonical order of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Reif was a leader in the development of the new community's innovative philosophical foundations.

Early life, education and early career Reif was a lifelong resident of Los Angeles. She became a member of the order of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in 1946. She received her bachelor's degree from Immaculate Heart College in 1953. She taught at St. Bernardine High School in San Bernardino, California, and Immaculate Heart High School in Hollywood, CA. She earned her doctorate in philosophy from Saint Louis University in 1961. from St. Louis University in 1961, Reif taught at St. Bernardine High School in San Bernardino and Immaculate Heart High School in Hollywood. During the 1960s and 1970s, she taught philosophy and theology, bringing internationally renowned women theologians to Immaculate Heart College. These women scholars brought new, creative insights into thinking about church which added a new dimension to the life of her community and the college. She was the chair of the religious department at Immaculate Heart College in Los Angeles, and its successor institution Immaculate Heart College Center, until her retirement in 1993. Along with over 400 Immaculate Heart of Mary sisters, Reif renounced her canonical vows in the creation of the new Immaculate Heart of Mary Community. In fact, all of the innovations she promoted in her work on the philosophical underpinnings of this new community "including professionalizing standards, experimenting with community worship and giving sisters control of their daily activities" are standard practice for Catholics across the country today.

Reif's commitment to social justice and her belief in the necessity of combining academic study with social engagement for change

As a philosopher, she influenced authors who wrote on various Aristotelian concepts, explaining materiality and form in sixteenth century thought. Reif was also an early leader in the Women's Ordination Conference which worked for the ordination of and the general rights of women in the Catholic Church. During the 1990s, Reif served as chair of the WOC board

Death and legacy Reif retired to Pilgrim Place in Claremont, California, in 1993 and died of pancreatic cancer in March 2002. The Pat Reif, IHM, Memorial Lecture was established by the Immaculate Heart Community in honor of her significance as a feminist scholar, professorial leader and her legacy as a social justice and human rights activist.