Sr. Virginia Longcope, MSC

1938 – 2025

Born in Allentown, PA, Sr. Virginia was the daughter of the late Harding and Rose Virginia (Deutsch) Longcope.  Discerning her religious vocation and embracing the charism of God’s Love for everyone, she made her First Profession of vows on June 30, 1961. 

Earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from Villanova University, Sister Virginia served as an elementary school teacher in Pennsylvania parish schools in Coplay, Limeport, Nazareth, Reading, Northampton and Philadelphia for 23 years.  While teaching in Nazareth, PA and with no particular musical talent of her own, she organized a Folk Music Group which enhanced the liturgies in the local parish.

She discerned that she had a special gift to work with troubled children, so she volunteered with a program in 1985 to help delinquent youth in Allentown.  She felt called to this ministry and pursued a Master’s Degree in Social Work in South Carolina with the goal of working in prison ministry.  

After working a few years at Palmer Work Release/Correctional Center in Florence, SC, Sr. Virginia envisioned starting a halfway house for non-violent offenders.  In 1993 her vision became a reality when she opened Stephen’s Place in Bethlehem, PA where she served as the Director for over 30 years.  Quoting those who knew her: 

“Sr. Virginia always saw the goodness in others, believing in their goodness and potential!  She’d say, for example ‘Everyone is different.’”

“No matter what, she always lived the gospel!  She listened when someone spoke to her, hearing what was said and what was not spoken.  Leaving her, one always felt better for having spent time with her!” 

“Her whole life prepared her for her special work with the residents of Stephen’s Place!” 

“She provided a home where everyone was loved and appreciated.  This was something which these residents had not experienced in their past.”

Sr. Virginia was recognized for her dedication and accomplishments and was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from De Sales University on May 21, 2005.  She was also recognized by the Diocese of Allentown for her service in March 2015.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her sense of caring, her determination and dedication to duty as she capably carried out her various ministries over the years. I’m sure our spiritual founder, Father Chevalier must have loved her, for she, like he, saw obstacles as means, and both of them accomplished so much.

Your Sister in the Heart of Jesus,
Sr. Dorothy Fabritze, MSC