Fall 2016 VOL. XXIII No. 3
Former African missionary, Sr. M. Bernadette Pendola, is surrounded by several of the Ugandan SNDs who recently visited California. STORY PAGE 3
A PUBLICATION OF THE SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME 1
Dear Readers, We have nearly completed the Year of Mercy proclaimed by Pope Francis. There have been so many opportunities for each of us to experience and exercise the mercy that is the very heart of God. As you read through this edition of Vision & Challenge, I believe that you will see many ways in which God’s mercy has been
XXIII NO. 3 – FALL 2016
part of our lives.
Vision & Challenge is published three times annually by the Sisters of Notre Dame, California Province.
Our 2016 Jubilarians have shown mercy to thousands of individuals and the testimonials on these pages share a brief glimpse of that impact. By a certain
SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME Founded by Hilligonde Wolbring in Coesfeld, Germany in 1850, the Sisters of Notre Dame is an international congregation of women religious who serve the church in 18 countries. The Sisters of Notre Dame have ministered in California for more than 92 years, bringing hope to humankind through education, faith formation, spiritual development, pastoral ministry, health care, social outreach ministries and missionary service. For more information, visit www.sndca.org.
ripple effect--a true miracle of grace--the mercy that one person experiences
VISION & CHALLENGE TEAM Provincial Superior: Sr. M. Anncarla Costello, S.N.D.
working in them and through them.
Director of Mission Advancement Services: Sr. M. Lisa Megaffin, S.N.D.
are pleased to announce that Sr. M. Kristin Battles was re-elected to a second
Contributors and advisers for this edition: Sr. M. Sheila Fay, Nancy Ehrmann, Anne Interrante, Sally Lopker, Sr. Antoinette Marie Moon, Mary Jo Quevedo, Sr. M. Regina Robbins, Sr. M. Joan Schlotfeldt, Angela Sedivy, Sr. M. Colette Theobald, Sr. M. Joanne Wittenburg
to be one of five international Assistants General. In the future, we will be
generations and boundaries. The recent visit of our Ugandan Sisters of Notre Dame was truly an inspiration. We rarely get such an opportunity to experience firsthand the fruits of our works of mercy. Since we first ventured to Uganda in 1995, the missionary sisters could see the impact of their sacrifices. But for the SNDs here in the States and our hundreds of donors, we could only rely on photos, videos and anecdotes. The vibrant joy of our Ugandan guests was a great testimonial of God’s mercy
6-year term as our Superior General. Also, Sr. M. Kathleen Burns was elected
for
any
PRINTING Vision & Challenge is printed locally by Vanguard Printing in Oxnard, California. Please remember to recycle your copy after reading.
explaining more about the priorities and initiatives that will be an outgrowth of this General Chapter. This season of Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity to embrace each of you with our grateful and prayerful good wishes. We often experience God’s tender mercy enfolding us—in our daily lives and especially in our multi-faceted ministries. If St. Paul had a chance to read this edition of Vision & Challenge, I hope that he would repeat what he wrote to the Corinthians: “All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.” (2 Cor. 4:15) Know that we deeply appreciate your spiritual support and financial assistance, and we are grateful to call you partners and friends. Sincerely,
Sr. M. Anncarla Costello, S.N.D. 2
And so God’s goodness is multiplied across
The Sisters of Notre Dame recently held our international General Chapter. We
Updates: Please contact the Mission Advancement Office for name and/or address corrections at info@sndca.org or 1776 Hendrix Ave., Thousand Oaks, CA 91360. Please accept our apologies misspellings or omissions.
often ignites other acts of mercy.
VISION & CHALLENGE | FALL 2016
During the late spring and early summer, nine Sisters of Notre Dame who are natives of Uganda visited the California province. In many
SND Associates. It was a joy to meet again the SNDs who have worked in Uganda, and to meet Mr. and Mrs. Gus Theobald, parents of Sr. M. Colette Theobald.
different ways, they expressed their profound gratitude for the generous support of the hundreds of donors who have invested in the Ugandan mission since its founding in 1995, and for this opportunity to see California. These reflections reveal some of what they experienced.
SR. M. TEOPISTA NABUGWAWO
is the first woman to join the SNDs from St. Julie’s Primary Boarding School and Notre Dame Academy in Buseesa. What surprised me was the condition of the poor people I saw on the streets while we were traveling through Los Angeles... Some people refer to us as poor in Uganda because we do not have enough food, the houses are poorly built, children cannot study to an expected level and so on. However, people in Uganda have something, even if it is a small plot of land. I saw people in California who have nothing at all, not even a small plot of land.
The amount of development and the highways were a surprise, too. SR. VIOLET MARIE KATWESIGE is
the farm manager in Buseesa and assists with various projects at Notre Dame Academy. I was inspired by the elderly SNDs who serve the Lord in whatever way they can. Seeing a sister in a wheelchair or using her walker put a smile on my face since I know she has lived a full life in serving the good God. Being with our sisters in California showed me that the same SND spirit I witness in Uganda is evident there, too.
SR. CHRISTINE MARIE MUGUME is Sr. Violet Marie Katwesige tries on a serape and sombrero.
SR. M. OLIVE KATUSIIME is studying
for her B.A. in Secondary Education. I was surprised to see how much our missionary sisters gave up in order to come and serve in Uganda. I was also surprised to see California’s beautiful mountains, rocks, hills and valleys—in particular, in Simi Valley. SR. M. ANNET NAMAKULA is also
studying education and is a part-time teacher at Mpala Primary School. What impressed me the most was the simplicity of the SNDs and the
working toward a diploma in library science and information technology. I was surprised that some of the landscape looked familiar like the big rocks and hills—only much drier. I thank all of the sisters for their good spirit, love and care that they showed us. I look forward to telling those who come after me about our experiences in California. SR. M. SUNDAY KUSEMERERWA is
the P5 teacher at St. Julie’s Primary School in Buseesa. I was delighted to see the wonders of God’s creation, especially the nature of California— the hills, steep mountains and the Pacific Ocean with its many sea creatures like the amazing starfish.
Sr. Jane Marie McHugh proudly hugs her former student, Sr. M. Teopista Nabugwawo.
SR. ANITA MARIE KYORIMPA is a
teacher at St. Julie Primary School in Buseesa. I felt at home immediately in the California province. Everyone welcomed us and shared many different ideas and life experiences with us. The sisters are always smiling and joyful. The Associates also impressed me so much—it was wonderful to see the Notre Dame spirit in them!
Pictured Top: Providing supper entertainment are Sr. M. Sunday Kusemererwa, Sr. M. Juliet Atugonza, Sr. Anita Marie Kyorimpa and Sr. Violet Marie Katwesige.
Ugandan SNDs Visit California
I was touched by the warm welcome we received from the little children whom we met in the different schools where our sisters teach. continued on page 5
A PUBLICATION OF THE SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME 3
We Congratulate these Sisters of Notre Dame who celebrated jubilees of profession this summer. These testimonials give a glimpse into the impact each sister has had on those who have journeyed with her.
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SISTER MARY ANTONINE MANNING - 65 YEARS
SISTER GINA MARIE BLUNCK - 50 YEARS
Sr. Antonine is an amazing help in my ministry as a priest since she is my English teacher and coach. She has helped me to improve my English, as well as the sweet tone to announce the Gospel. Since 2014, she has been my “abuela”—grandmother. Every time we meet, she has everything ready for me and she shares her experiences as a disciple and missionary for Christ. Her smiles, prayers and encouragement mean so much! My vocation stands strong thanks to her joy and holy example. Rev. Turibio Gutierrez, C.M., Associate Pastor, St. Paschal Baylon Parish, Thousand Oaks
I first met Sr. Gina Marie when my two children were attending Notre Dame Academy Elementary School. Her greeting always indicated that she was a strong women of integrity and faith who had a love for the school and the students. She pushed me to think outside the box and to always have my heart open to God. Her visionary leadership, generosity of spirit and collaborative style propelled Notre Dame Academy High School into the highly successful and progressive institution for women that it is today. Nancy Ehrmann, Advancement Director, Notre Dame Academy, Los Angeles
SISTER MARY ROSE ANTHONY BALLARD – 65 YEARS
SISTER MARY RICHARDLYN JONES - 50 YEARS
I have known Sr. Rose Anthony since 1952 when my sister and I attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in Downey. Many years later, we ministered together at St. Rose of Lima Parish in Simi Valley. I have always been inspired by her dedication to her family, to her religious community, and the people to whom she ministered. We appreciate her infectious smile and her wonderful example of selfless service. Even in spite of health challenges, her ready smile and serenity always indicate that she is close to the Lord. Msgr. Michael Bunny, Pastor Emeritus, St. Rose of Lima Parish, Simi Valley
I have had the privilege of working with Sr. Richardlyn in the main office at La Reina High School & Middle School. She is articulate and meticulous in keeping the records; most importantly, Sr. Richardlyn is intuitive, thoughtful, kind and caring. One day I observed a parent chatting with her—he was so delighted to see Sr. Richardlyn! He told me that she was his elementary school teacher and then shared the impact she had on his life as a young boy. I could just “feel” how excited he was to reconnect with Sr. Richardlyn after many years. Nancy LaBelle, College Counselor, La Reina High School & Middle School, Thousand Oaks
VISION & CHALLENGE | FALL 2016
Continued from Page 3
SISTER SHIRLEY MARIE MCGOVERN - 50 YEARS
Sr. Shirley Marie has a passionate heart for those in need. She visits prisoners weekly at the Todd Road Jail in Ventura, and leads them in group prayer experiences. Recently, she completed the intense training to become a CASA, a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children who are in foster care. I have also had the opportunity to attend the Catholic Bible Institute with her. Through these various forms of study and outreach, I know that Sr. Shirley Marie touches many hearts and I am grateful to know her. Sherry Reynolds, SND Associate Candidate and friend from Padre Serra Parish, Camarillo SISTER MARY JOYANNE SULLIVAN - 50 YEARS
I am honored to share my gratitude for Sr. Joyanne’s inspiration in my life. She inaugurated and developed our Women’s Bible Study and RCIA at Sacred Heart Parish, and supported me in developing our Bereavement Ministry and the Annual Women’s Retreat Team. Dennis and I are so grateful that she invited us to join the Associates of the Sisters of Notre Dame, and to serve as our sponsor. We love her dearly and are so grateful that we have had so many great experiences together. Jeannette Longwill, SND Associate and colleague from Sacred Heart Parish, Ventura SISTER MARIE JULIE BRUSS - 40 YEARS
Although Sr. Marie Julie serves as the Operations Manager for the Conrad Hilton Fund for Sisters, I have been privileged to get to know her through the new Stephen Ministry. She freely shared her experiences as a counselor with us during our Stephen Ministry training—and we have truly benefitted by her knowledge and wisdom. We have found her to be soft-spoken, warm and approachable and our 19 Stephen Ministers look forward to sharing her spirit with those whom we will serve. Terri Bond, SND Associate
Sr. Christine Marie Mugume thanks Sr. M. Karlynn Werth for all of the hospitality.
How amazing that they tried to sing in Runyoro (our native language) and they asked us different questions; many even want to come to Uganda! SR. M. IMMACULATE NAMUGGA is the
first SND from Uganda, living in Buseesa, and assisting young women who wish to join the community. What surprised me was seeing some poor people on some of the streets in Los Angeles without a decent shelter. I was shocked to see people sleeping in tents—I thought there are no poor people in California and in the USA in general. Our visit to California has stretched and broadened my mind. I have a wider worldview and am trying to implement some of the lessons I learned, like being more conscious of time. It also gave me a better understanding of the sacrifices our sisters made when they left their home provinces and responded to God’s call to minister in Africa. SR. M. JULIET ATUGONZA
teaches 3-year old children at Notre Dame Nursery in Mpala. I had always longed to see the Pacific Ocean since I studied it in geography class. Now one of my dreams was fulfilled when I played in the waters of the Pacific. I had thought that all people in California were rich, so I was surprised to see Sr. Antoinette Marie Moon giving food to a poor man on the street. A PUBLICATION OF THE SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME 5
Why don’t you ask me to help you? by Sr. M. Lisa Megaffin, S.N.D.
For the Sisters of Notre Dame, a spirit of selfless service and philanthropy was part of our original spirit.
Our foundress, Hilligonde Wolbring (later known as Sr. M. Aloysia) shared her vision of hope-filled service to the poor children of Coesfeld, Germany with her friend Elisabeth Kuhling (later known as Sr. M. Ignatia). Elisabeth responded with the profound words, “Why don’t you ask me to help you?” And as the saying goes, “the rest is history.” In sharing the vision came a response to the challenge. Today, under the patronage of Mary, Mother of the Church, the SND Mission Advancement Team of the California province works to promote, support and celebrate the mission of the Sisters of Notre Dame, and our spiritual, educational and social outreach. Staff and volunteers use various strategies to advance the local and international SND mission by fostering relationships, engaging in community outreach and developing necessary resources. Religious congregations such as the Sisters of Notre Dame are financially independent—we do not receive regular unrestricted subsidies from the Catholic Church or any government entity. The needs of the retired members are supported through Social Security and contributions from the National Religious Retirement Office (through the proceeds of the annual collection for retired religious taken up in Catholic churches). Here are a few ventures that donations to the Sisters of Notre Dame support: The Life & Ministry Fund subsidizes a number of general needs and outreach initiatives, such as SUPPORT FOR THE SNDS who give uncompensated service—such as eldercare, volunteer work or congregational/province administration ONGOING EDUCATION especially for sisters who have devoted many years to ministry and who desire refresher courses, especially in spirituality KINDRED HEARTS MINISTRY providing ongoing faith formation and prayer experiences for those thirsting for a deeper relationship with God 6
VISION & CHALLENGE | FALL 2016
VOCATION PROMOTION assisting women discerning a call to religious life THE ASSOCIATE PROGRAM enabling lay women and men to share the SND spirit and mission in all parts of their lives STEPHEN MINISTRY a new venture with St. Julie Billiart Parish, which trains and empowers lay caregivers (including Sisters of Notre Dame, Associates and others) to provide high-quality, confidential, Christ-centered care to people who are hurting SPONSORSHIP OF CAST (The Coalition Against Slavery and Trafficking) SPONSORSHIP OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LAMP (Los Angeles Ministry Project) PROPERTY maintenance and improvements at Notre Dame Center The Retirement Fund underwrites the retired SNDs’ needs. A number of sisters provided uncompensated service during their years of activity ministry. This means that they received neither a stipend nor retirement benefits. As with many seniors, the cost of care is beyond what Social Security provides. The province has a modest retirement fund, but the National Religious Retirement Office assesses our unfunded retirement liability at approximately 50%. Established in 1994, the Julie Fund is a means to assist the Sisters of Notre Dame and their Associates in their ministries in support of the poor, disadvantaged and marginalized. The fund supports activities, projects and services that respond creatively to the needs of those persons and groups that fall into the following categories: • The disadvantaged, disabled or handicapped • The elderly and those on a fixed income • The abused and neglected • The unemployed or welfare recipients • Those with chronic health issues • Those who are homeless or are in danger of being homeless • Those suffering from poverty in its varied forms Recent examples of Julie Fund grants include • Support for the “Get on the Bus” program, providing transportation for children to visit their incarcerated parents
on Mother’s Day or Father’s Day • Addiction recovery materials and Bibles for the incarcerated at Ventura County’s Todd Road Jail • Support for the People-to-People Program, providing hot meals for the homeless and hungry in Conejo Valley • Spirituality materials for residents of a local board-and- care home • Brown bag lunches for individuals surveyed in the annual homeless count The Uganda Mission Fund provides operating funds for the Ugandan schools and farm, the missionaries’ living expenses, and for the broader needs of the East Africa Delegation (of which the missions in Uganda are a part). In addition, there are short-term special projects which the Uganda Mission Fund underwrites, such as construction projects and a new truck, a current immediate need. Elisabeth Kuhling’s words echo in hundreds of hearts each year, for the generosity of our many donors enables us to meet the challenge of ongoing outreach to those in need—making Hilligonde Wolbring’s vision an unfolding reality. We pray that as we share the vision of SND commitment and outreach, our readers will continue to join us in meeting the challenge. On behalf of all of those whose lives we touch each day, please accept our heartfelt gratitude.
HOW YOU CAN HELP! Run with purpose in support of the SND Life & Ministry Fund!
Sr. M. Anncarla Costello, president of the board of CAST, explains the organization’s mission to assist persons trafficked for the purpose of forced labor and slavery-like practices and to work toward ending all instances of such human rights violations.
Join Us for the 3rd Annual Nun Run 5K, Community Service Fair & 1 Mile Fun Run
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2017 8:00 A.M.
LA REINA HIGH SCHOOL & MIDDLE SCHOOL 106 W. JANSS RD. • THOUSAND OAKS
Charles Styles (second from the right) recently received a Vicky’s Scholarship. In this photo, he is congratulated by Rick Schroeder, president of Many Mansions, and SND Associates Eileen and Marty Garcia. Charles was a special education student who dropped out of high school; his recent dream was to take GED preparation classes, pass the exam, and find employment. The Vicky’s Scholarship Fund received a Julie Fund Grant, as requested by the Garcias. Although shocked to learn of his passing less than a week after receiving this award, Charles’ friends were grateful to know that he had a special reason to hope during his last week of life.
Registration includes 5K chip timing, awards for top finishers, tech shirts, virtual event bags, other race day giveaways and prizes, and a pancake breakfast! Runners and walkers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. New this year is a Community Service Fair. As of press time, Community Service Fair participants include: CASA OF VENTURA COUNTY HOSPICE OF THE CONEJO MANY MANSIONS MANNA, CONEJO VALLEY FOOD BANK ST. JUDE LOAVES AND FISHES SENIOR CONCERNS SOUTH CENTRAL LAMP
HERE’S HOW YOU CAN HELP!
REGISTER FOR THE 5K OR 1 MILE
START A FUNDRAISING TEAM
MAKE A CASH DONATION
VOLUNTEER
Sr. Anita Marie alights from the well-used truck at St. Julie’s Mission in Buseesa, Uganda. A heavy-duty replacement truck is an immediate need since roads are rough and hard to navigate, especially in the rain. It will be used to transport animal feed, firewood and the netball team to various competitions.
Go to www.sndca.org and follow the Nun Run 2017 link at the top of the home page. For additional information, contact Anne Interrante, 805-917-3730 or email nunrun@sndca.org. We look forward to seeing you on February 4! A PUBLICATION OF THE SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME 7
SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME
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The Grapevine NOTRE DAME ACADEMY in Los Angeles recently honored Sr. Marie Paul Grech as the creator of the Cana Scholarship Fund. In 2006, she inaugurated this fund to provide full-tuition financial aid for students who would not otherwise be able to attend NDA. To date, more than $1,000,000 in aid has been given to Cana Scholars. ST. JOHN’S SEMINARY named Sr. M. Anncarla Costello as a Distinguished Alumni Honoree in September. Sr. Anncarla was the first person to earn the seminary’s Masters of Arts in Pastoral Ministry, and the first woman to receive the Distinguished Alumni award. NOTRE DAME SENIOR SECONDARY ACADEMY in Buseesa, Uganda, was ranked second in all of Uganda. This ranking was determined after the Uganda Ministry of Education sought to determine which schools provide the most holistic
PERMIT #5
development of their students. The ministry worked with Ark, a British consulting firm, to analyze criteria beyond national exam results, the typical measure of success. According to Sr. Anita Marie Stacy, head teacher of NDA, the research is founded on the belief that the typical “best” schools enroll students that come from a background that is conducive to academic success. The students arrive better prepared and with more financial and academic resources than their counterparts at countryside schools. THE SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME and their Associates welcomed four new Associates: Mary Ann Furlong, St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, Westlake Village; Greg and Tam Lontok, Visitation Parish, Los Angeles; and Patrice Theard, St. Bernadette Parish, Los Angeles. SND ASSOCIATE NANCY COONIS assumed responsibilities as the executive director of the Western Catholic Education Association in July. Nancy has been in
ministry in Catholic schools since 1975, including service with the Sisters of Notre Dame at St. Matthias High School and Notre Dame Academy Schools. LA REINA HIGH SCHOOL & MIDDLE SCHOOL recently dedicated the renovated and modernized 100s Classroom Building as “Sisters of Notre Dame Hall.”
The Sisters of Notre Dame offer their sympathy to the families of: MRS. ANNE ADAMS, stepmother of Sr. Florette Marie Adams MRS. ANN COSTELLO, mother of Sr. M. Anncarla Costello MRS. LEOLINE DOYLE, mother of Sr. Shawn Marie Doyle