VOLUME 5 • NO. 3 • 2004
Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis
MISSION STATEMENT OF THE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF THE THIRD ORDER OF ST. FRANCIS Dedication to Jesus Christ involves us intimately in the liberating and reconciling Gathering Place is published to keep
mission—to make God more deeply known and loved, and in so doing, draw all persons to fuller and freer life.
the public informed of the mission and ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the
Together with all our sisters and brothers who strive for a more just world, we undertake those activities which will promote the material and spiritual development of the human family.
Third Order of St. Francis.
EDITOR Reneta E.Webb, Ph.D., CAE
EDITORIAL BOARD Sr. Carlene Blavat Sr. Judith David Dr. Arlene Lennox Sr. Marygrace Puchacz Sr. MaryLou Wojtusik
PROOFING STAFF
Becoming a member of a community of women religious is a gentle and completely transforming
Sr. Mary Adalbert Stal Sr. Dolores Mary Koza Sr. Louise Szerpicki
process. It is an invitation into the special spirit that identifies a group. The Sisters of St. Joseph of
PRODUCTION & LAYOUT
the Third Order of St. Francis have a spirit which is holy, Franciscan, and truly palpable. This was
Newcomb Marketing Solutions/ The Printed Word
true even in the early Christian communities where onlookers observed, “See how they love one another!” It takes time to know and cherish the community. Each phase of integration brings the person into closer identity with the group. The individual learns that, from the strength of that bond of love and the fullness of the special gift of the community, she can live out in ministry what she experiences in community.
OFFICE Public Relations Office P.O. Box 388129 Chicago, IL 60638-8129 Telephone: 1-773-581-7505 Fax: 1-773-581-7545 Web site: www.ssj-tosf.org e-mail: dev@ssj-tosf.org
In this issue of Gathering Place, you will have the opportunity to take a look at the process of becoming a sister, the process of integration. This is the way women answer Christ’s call, “Come, follow me,” in the vowed religious life. Copyright by the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis, Inc. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.
Table of
Contents
VOLUME 5 • NO. 3 • 2004
DEPARTMENTS
Integration by Sr. Barbara Krakora
Letter from the President
Development
FEATURES
1
20
Letter from Sr. Denise Seymour
2
“Integration” describes the changes that occur within an individual who becomes identified with a community of sisters, but also the changes that the person brings to the group through her unique giftedness.
A Vocation Journey by Sr. Debra Ann Weina
3
With her personal experience of responding to God’s call, Sr. Deb is companion to other women who are discerning a vowed life.
(Dennis)
Becoming a Sister Perpetual Light
20
Sister Helen Cymanski (Viola) Sister Placida Kinnick Sister Mary Disher (Domitilla) Sister Mary Clementia Krolikowski Sister Dorothy Kubisiak (Edwardine) Sister Marianne Mareczko Sister Emily Ann Lyzen Sister Casimir Marie Cudnik
5
The Vocation Ministers describe the experience of becoming a Sister of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis —Precandidacy by Sr. Jean Sonsalla —Candidacy by Sr. Rita Schmidt (Juanita) —Novitiate by Sr. Rose Margaret Firkus (Kenneth) —Temporary Professed by Sr. Cecilia Zielen (Rosanne)
Living a Vowed Life Two levels of discernment occur as a sister moves through the stages of integration into community living. One is the decision about the vowed life of a woman religious, and the other is the ministry through which the life will be lived. Pastoral, Parish and Diocesan Ministries - Sr. Mary Ann Stoltz (Pius) Education - Sr. Alice Myslinski (Sarah) Healthcare - Sr. Sandy LoPorto (Joseph Mary) Congregational Services - Sr. Anne Maslanka (Alberta) Business Services - Sr. Beth Konkol (DePaul) Social Services - Sr. Jennifer Ladowski Overseas Missions - Sr. Regina (Evelyn) Wachowski
In response to readers’ request, we are including the names of the sisters as they were known before the return to baptismal names.
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“ W E S H A L L N OT C E A S E F RO M E X P L O R AT I O N , A N D T H E E N D O F A L L O U R E X P L O R I N G W I L L B E TO A R R I V E W H E R E W E S TA RT E D, A N D K N O W T H E P L A C E F O R T H E F I R S T T I M E .” — T. S . E L I OT Dear Friends, I feel a deep excitement about the mystery of “call”—the intimate link between the “here now” and the “not yet”. Poets and prophets write metaphorically of the sea, as restless as it is immense, to describe the mysterious call toward the “not yet” found in the human heart.While the sea’s all-encompassing immensity compels us to a presence in the here now, its expansiveness calls us to exploration, and its depths promise ever deepening spirals of experience and understanding. Anthony de Mello tells the story of “The Salt Doll” who had traveled thousands of miles to the sea. Fascinated by the strange moving mass, the salt doll responds to an inner call, asking, “Who are you?”, and the sea replies “Come in and see.” The doll wades in and begins to dissolve. Finally, when very little of the doll is left, she exclaims, “Now I know what I am!” The doll’s wholehearted inquiry, springing from her fascination, transformed the “here now” to a far greater “not yet” than anticipated. A journey, an inquiry, a call help us find who we are. I believe each of us is called—called to explore life, and to give ourselves to the inquiry wholeheartedly, to be present to the exploration, to the now.T. S. Eliot wrote eloquently of this universal human call when he wrote, “We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started, and know the place for the first time.” Exploration implies a path, a way. Each of us seeks to know our way, our path.This adventure begs us to be open to not knowing, begs us to be open to the questions themselves:Who are you? Who am I? Where am I/we going? In closing I share part of a poem by David Whyte. In it he talks about geese: Flying up and down they close together an arrow of love to the south and disappear. Fear fades at the frontiers of faith and faith is all encounter, the sense of self just an edge of wind in this migration, the head long rush of life all pilgrimage and arrival. I am grateful that we are on this explorative journey together—each of us responding to our own call, and together, to a greater call we will only understand when we arrive where we started. Your sister,
Jeanne Conzemius, SSJ-TOSF President
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Vol. 5 No. 3
Integration
I by Sister Barbara Krakora
INTEGRATION TAKES
Integration. It’s a new word for a new time. Women who are choosing to live a consecrated life in a particular religious community integrate! To get a better understanding of this, consider how entrance into religious con-
TIME, PATIENCE, AND
gregations has evolved.
Up until the 1960’s young women, (usually in their teens) took their first
PRAYER, BOTH FOR THE
steps into the convent within the safety of large groups. Then for the next several years they prayed, studied, worked, and ate together as a group in
WOMEN WHO BEGIN
preparation for their profession of vows and future ministries. They were shaped and formed by the best sisters the community had to give, and they became
THIS NEW LIFE IN A
RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY
AND FOR THOSE SISTERS
WHO LIVE WITH HER
homemakers who were experts in running large households,
nurses who were proficient in delivering quality health care, and teachers
and continue to be my best self because of the holy and faithful women in this
and good way for communities to function at that time and given the large
community who have
number of women entering.Then came the Second Vatican Council in 1962
nurtured, sheltered, challenged
and with it many changes to which communities have been adjusting ever
and been there for me.”
since. As we look at entrance into religious communities now, we see that
So states Sr. Barbara Krakora who,
times have changed. Circumstances have changed.The women entering have
as Assistant Vocation Minister,
changed. The former ways of processing large groups no longer fit the indi-
provides that same support for
viduals seeking entrance today. Today’s women come from different back-
women inquiring into a vowed life.
grounds having had several job experiences, having completed high school or
In this position, Sr. Barb applies the
Some have even raised families.Thus, entering a religious community is now a matter of integration for them. It is a bringing of who they are: their joys, sorrows, memories, and concerns. It is an offering of what they have; their strengths, weaknesses, and talents. It is a letting go of past places and posses-
GUIDANCE.
“I know that I have become
who were skilled in educating hundreds of children. It was a very practical
higher levels of education, and often having been financially independent.
AND OFFER HER
Sister Barbara Krakora
sions: their homes, positions of employment, and some relationships.
strengths of her master’s degree in Scriptural Theology, her experience as a classroom teacher, and her ministry as Director of Religious Education. She understands what it means to search and discern while
Integration takes time, patience, and prayer both
being led by a loving God. After
for the women who begin this new life in a reli-
graduating from high school and
gious community and for those sisters who live
working for a few years, Sr. Barb
with her and offer her guidance. It takes time to
entered the Sisters of St. Joseph of
determine whether or not this lifestyle in this par-
the Third Order of St. Francis, after
ticular community fits or feels right. It takes
becoming a Catholic. She knew,
patience to discover new things about oneself and
that God was calling her to religious
grow to accept them. It takes daily prayer to pon-
life, and now is committed to
der what God is revealing.Yes, integration is a Holy Time of transformation. It is a time of growth, a time of shedding what is no longer needed for the journey, and a time when decisions can be made prayerfully. Integration is a settling of an individual into a religious community and one day realizing that she is home.
journeying with others who seek the same lifestyle.
V
A Vocation Journey
Sister Debra Ann Weina Sr. Debra Ann Weina is Vocation Minister for the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. From the age of six, Sr. Deb knew she would be a sister. She recalls seeing a sister and saying, “Someday I’ll be just like you. Will I find Jesus there?” “I think Jesus found you,” the sister replied. Now it is Sr. Deb’s turn to journey with women who are considering the SSJ-TOSF lifestyle. She brings enormous talent to that role— musical talent, her love for nature, her organizational talent and her ability to connect with people. Although Sr. Deb is based in Stevens Point,Wisconsin, she travels across the country telling the Good News and the SSJ-TOSF message.
by Sister Debra Ann Weina On this the dawn of my Jubilee year, I find myself returning to the memories of my “call” story to the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis; how it began, unfolded and journeyed to the day of my perpetual commitment. I remember that first cognitive decision to send in a postcard that asked this simple and pointed question: “Is God calling you... to be a religious?” I really can't explain it, but something in that statement jump-started my heart in a way that no words can describe. It led me to take serious notice of my life and my faith. I sent that postcard in and soon received an envelope full of flyers from religious communities around the country. I remember the confusion of so many different forms of religious life, the different apostolates, charisms and missions. I also remember the clever ways these communities advertised to attract my attention. Seeking out family, friends and my pastor, I entered into the discernment process ... was I being called to religious, married or single life?
DISCERNMENT In her book,“Vocations Anonymous:A Handbook for Adults Discerning Priesthood and Religious Life,” Sister Kathleen Bryant describes discernment as a means to distinguish, to sift, to separate what may be from God and what may be coming from one's own interest or even from cultural pressures. It is a process of listening intently to God, self and others. Discernment is a choice between two good things, with the primary task to sort out impulses, attractions, fantasies and desires—a sort of spring cleaning in the household of the psyche. The overall goal is to come to know God's desire, hope and dream for oneself. Walking with women who are seeking knowledge about and/or desiring to enter religious life, is a sacred journey, a sacred trust. Forms of communication between myself and the inquirer are varied: emails, telephone conversations, personal visits and letter writing. After the “getting to know you phase,” we journey together into the story of her
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Vol. 5 No. 3
life. The “call” is personal. No two women hear the “call” in the same manner. It is not easy to know where
WALKING WITH WOMEN
or when the call is heard because God calls gently and leaves us the freedom to choose. To help a woman who is seriously desiring to enter religious life, I use a behavioral assessment model. It is said that the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior. Religious life requires certain skills. Using this
WHO ARE SEEKING
model of assessment provides the criteria for looking at a prospective candidate's life patterns and choices in order to predict whether she will have success in religious life. The model uses open-ended questions and looks at fourteen topics, each dealing with a unique component of
KNOWLEDGE ABOUT
the individual's background and history with different issues touching upon religious life. For example, under the topic of friendship, I ask questions that look for age appropriate relationships, empathy, good judgment, communication skills, and emotional stability. Each of these skills is necessary in community living. The questions are meant as guides to enable the woman to come to some resolution of her interest in religious life. Throughout this intensive process, it is key that personal integrity and confidentiality are maintained in a
AND/OR DESIRING TO
professional manner. This extensive screening process for prospective candidates has become important for religious congregations in order to assure that both the woman and the congregation are happy, healthy and compatible.
ENTER RELIGIOUS LIFE,
D I R E C T O R O F V O C AT I O N M I N I S T RY My role as Director of Vocation Ministry includes not only discerning with women inquiring about religious life, but also multi-tasking in several roles. I am an educator and witness to the vowed life of a religious, speak-
IS A SACRED JOURNEY,
ing often to groups of children, teens, young adults in schools, colleges and religious education classes. I talk not only about my choice to be a religious, but also about life-choice decisions (relationships, jobs, lifestyle) and how to make these decisions properly.
A SACRED TRUST. I am a spiritual director for college students participating in Busy Student Retreats, service retreats and Work Camps with high school students. Often, I am there as a “mentor” to women of all ages and faiths, who find themselves searching for God in their lives and who are searching for purpose and meaning in their lives. It is in these experiences that I find myself humbled as I listen intently to these life-stories. In the administrative part of my vocation ministry, I represent the congregation at high school/college career fairs, vocation fairs in schools and parishes, and attending national conventions where youth and young adults gather. I attend regional and diocesan meetings where other vocation directors gather for planning religious vocation events, in-service and mutual support. No two days in the life of a Vocation Director are the same. I like that! Each story I hear, each event I attend as community representative, each classroom of 6th grade girls eager to ask their questions, is a way I continue to be blessed by God. It is in the breaking of the bread (our lives) that Jesus continually reveals himself to us. How tenderly we must hold this bread! So, twenty-five years later, I continue to say “YES” to my call as a vowed religious woman. I continue to be challenged to be my best self in this community of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. Everyday, every new encounter is a moment to enter into this mystery of CALL, a call to conversion and to love. My life has been blessed, and I pray that my role as vocation director today, will enable the next generation of sisters to experience the same blessings and much more as an SSJ-TOSF.
Becoming a Sister
Pre-Candidacy by Sister Jean Sonsalla
Pre-candidacy is an exciting time for the woman who has made a decision to “try on” the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis for a period of six months up to two years. During this time she will continue to discern her call to
Sister Jean Sonsalla
religious life but now more specifically, the SSJSister Jean Sonsalla knows Gospel
TOSF community.
This happens by means of
living. She has seen it in her association with the Sisters at various community
early home life in Arcadia, Wisconsin. She experienced it
events to which she is invited, by just spending
when she entered the Sisters of
time with the Sisters getting to know and experi-
St. Joseph of the Third Order of
ence the charism of this particular community,
St. Francis in 1953. Solid Gospel by discerning the Franciscan call along with
values were part of her teaching ministry, and continued when she concentrated on parish ministry as a pastoral associate. For seven years, she lived Gospel values as Administrator of Field Services for Catholic Charities in Jonesborough,Tennessee. Then her Gospel commitment came to rest in her work with women who are inquiring about the vowed lifestyle. Sr. Jean is minister of the Pre-Candidates and guides the individuals in their investigation of a Franciscan way of life.
PRE-CANDIDACY IS AN
reads congregational publications and participates in programs offered
P
EXCITING TIME FOR THE
WOMAN WHO HAS
through courses at colleges in her area or through on-line programs. The pre-candidate remains in her home locale and retains her job for
MADE A DECISION TO
the duration of Pre-Candidacy.
When the Pre-candidate, the
Companion Sister and Pre-Candidate Minister discern that she is ready
“TRY ON” THE SISTERS OF
to continue the journey, a request is forwarded to the Central leadership along with necessary documentation requesting acceptance into
ST. JOSEPH, OF THE
ST. FRANCIS FOR A
PERIOD OF SIX MONTHS
UP TO TWO YEARS. Vol. 5 No. 3
at the Spirituality Centers of the Community, if possible. During this time she is encouraged to update herself theologically and biblically
THIRD ORDER OF
5
a Companion Sister and the Pre-Candidate Minister. She receives and
the Candidacy phase of initial formation.
I journeyed down a worn out path And came across a lake Reflecting on the waters edge My life came back to me
L
Illusions of the distant past Reminiscences of times cherished Remembrances of what was lost Gratefulness for gifts granted My life’s been full not passed me by My journey’s not quite ended I have yet more tales to tell A life that’s not suspended Places yet to be explored Successes yet to come Gifts that God has opened wide Talents yet unknown
Lake Journey by Rosanna Hodlik
The lake that day was calm, serene My life was all chaotic I thought about the reflecting trees And reeds dancing in water I thought how I was sure I knew Till something else came along It changed me from who I was Gave me courage to travel on My journey that day was to begin The next phase of my life I’m grateful that I found my way With God guiding me along
Becoming a Sister
Candidacy by Sister Rita Schmidt
Villa St. Clare— A home dedicated to the spirituality and virtues of St. Clare of Assisi. Her name in Latin means “bright.” Community living in Villa St. Clare sheds light on religious life rooted in Franciscan gospel values.
The candidacy is a time of preparation for the Novitiate. In this phase a woman begins the process of integration into religious community living. The time frame is from six months to two years. During this time the candidate lives in community with the sisters. Sister Rita Schmidt
A House of Discernment has been established to provide a community of sisters to
Sister Rita Schmidt’s (Juanita)
welcome and journey with the candidate. It is
years as a hospital chaplain has
located in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The core
sharpened her natural ability to
group of sisters and the candidates have
companion people at critical times
named it Villa St. Clare.
in their lives. She began as a hospital chaplain in 1990 after almost thirty years in education as teacher and principal. She spent most of her chaplaincy at Mercy Medical Center in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and then transferred to St. Mary Hospital in Green Bay when the house of discernment,Villa St. Clare, was opened in 2002. Sr. Rita resides there with two other sisters, providing for inquirers,
C
Beginnings are an awkward and uncomfortable time. The sisters try to be sensitive to these feelings in the candidate to help ease her inclusion into the home and our life. A gentle, hospitable presence, can be a soothing balm for her anxiety. There is no way to rush the process.The candidate is reminded she has to be patient and gentle with herself.
During this “live-in experience” the candidate learns more about the SSJ-TOSF way of life, our history, charism and mission. It provides a time and setting where the candidate can deepen her prayer life and reflect on her faith experience and call within the context of community living.
The candidate is responsible for all her personal needs. She has a job and contributes to the cost of food and housing.
pre-candidates, and/or candidates, a
The candidate becomes a real part of the community. She learns what our life is about by participating in the
live-in experience of a community
household tasks, community prayer, decision-making, and community gatherings. She is welcomed as an adult
of sisters. “We strive to provide
woman with a voice in decision making. She is invited to share her gifts and her story. In the mutual sharing,
a realistic view of religious life, rooted in Franciscan gospel values,” says Sr. Rita. “We join together in prayer, play and community life.”
we all are stretched and challenged to be more authentic in our own call. In this phase both the community and the candidate discern. The SSJ-TOSF community will be discerning whether the candidate is called to this religious order at the same time that the candidate is discerning God's call. Regular conversations with the candidate help to facilitate the mutual discernment. How is the candidate experiencing community life? What does she find life-giving? What are the challenges, the joys? Does the community feel she fits in? Can the community be at home with her? Can the candidate feel at home with the community? All of these questions help with mutual discernment.
As a candidate minister, I am often challenged by the candidate's desire to live our convictions more zealously than we older members sometimes do—to live more simply, to pray more frequently, to give more generously in community and ministry. I know that God speaks very clearly to me through their stories. This is our way into a future full of hope for our community.
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Vol. 5 No. 3
THE DREAM I HAD OF JOINING THE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF THE THIRD ORDER OF ST. FRANCIS IS BECOMING A REALITY. MY LIFE HAS CHANGED AND WILL CONTINUE TO CHANGE AS MY JOURNEY CONTINUES.
C
Becoming a Sister
Candidacy by Rosanna Hodlik
Candidacy is a time of transitions, a time of letting go and starting anew. For me, I left behind my family, friends, job, and home and moved to an unfamiliar state and city. Church activities and other group memberships ended as I left Cleveland, Ohio, for Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Grieving our losses is part of transition. Since my dad died less than a month before I moved, my grieving has been more complicated. The cycle of grief leaves one on a roller-coaster ride with its ups and downs.
As I start anew, prayer time is shared with the community. There is support from the Sisters and from those in the Pre-Novitiate program which is comprised of Candidates, both male and female, from Franciscan and non-Franciscan communities. We meet monthly to talk about our journey and share our ideas and faith. At each meeting, a topic is presented that helps us on our spiritual journey.
I have found a job and am now a Eucharistic Minister at a new parish. Studying the journey of St. Francis and others also occupies my time. I am meeting more of the Sisters in the community and developing new relationships. The dream I had of joining the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis is becoming a reality. My life has changed and will continue to change as my journey continues.
Rosanna Hodlik, Candidate
Becoming a Sister
Novitiate by Sister Rose Margaret Firkus
Novitiate is an extended period of reflection and experience that marks the formal beginning of religious life in the congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. It is time to withdraw from gainful employment so as to go deeper in relationship with God and thus with God’s people.To help with the deeper relationship, the novice studies the lives of Jesus, Francis and Clare, the Franciscan scholars like Bonaventure and Scotus, and the Sister Rose Margaret Firkus
founders of her own community. She learns that as a Franciscan woman religious she is called to live evangelical life.
She cooks. She sews. She is a
Evangelical life calls her to live the gospel as radically as possible.
prize winning photographer. She is a registered nurse.
No matter how much head knowledge one gains, unless that knowledge
She served in congregational
leads to heart knowledge, it is sterile. It is vital that the novice let her heart
leadership. For ten years, she
be changed; changed in such a way that, through her, God’s people can come
was Co-director of Prevention
to know God more deeply and thus come to fuller and freer life. The
at AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist
novitiate program is a significant part of the Novice’s lifelong process of
in South Bend, Indiana.
personal development and discovery. It lays the foundation on which all of
Sr. Rose Margaret Firkus novice minister. Sr. Rose was also involved in laying the groundwork for the Common Franciscan Novitiate where novices of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order
Sister Patricia Melchert, Novice “The SSJ-TOSFs are a forwardthinking group of religious women who are always looking to reach out to the people who are in need.”
Once steeped in a greater relationship with God the novice moves out to integrate (practice) contemplation in the work world that God calls us as Franciscan women to live. How we are present to the people with whom we share life and work is as important as the work that we do. Novices go out as sister to learn from and minister to the people of God.
of St. Francis join novices from
In order to balance the contemplative and work parts of religious life, it is
seventeen other Franciscan
necessary for the novice to withdraw at times to reflect on what she is
congregations to spend their
doing and what is happening to her. In other words, to reflect on whether
canonical (first) year of
ministry is leading to a change of heart because it flows from an interior
novitiate. Currently the
place where God is center. We call this hermitage time. As Francis did, the
Common Franciscan Novitiate
novice withdraws from activity and enters her “cave.” Caves were important
is located in Joliet, Illinois.
to Francis because he could go there for the solitude so necessary to know
There the novices spend a
one is in tune with God. It is a time to integrate what one has learned about
cloistered year, immersed in
prayer, contemplation and work.
Franciscan spirituality and a study of religious life. Sr. Rose
As the novice approaches the time to profess first vows, she spends
continues working with the
considerable time reflecting on how she has lived poverty, chastity and obe-
novices during their apostolic (second) year of novitiate during which they work side by side with sisters in ministry.
9
N
life can be built.
(Kenneth) is the congregational
Vol. 5 No. 3
Sister Marge Kalina, Novice “I spent most of my life with the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. I resonate deeply with the Franciscan spirit that lives in the community.”
dience; how she has integrated Franciscan spirituality, communal life, and ministerial involvement. Her integration of this life style helps her to discern if she can live religious life. Thus, together with her novice minister, she continues to discern her readiness to profess vows, to live the Franciscan charism to move into ministry within the church and world as a Sister of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis.
Becoming a Sister
On-Going Initial Formation:
The Temporary Professed
by Sister Cecilia Zielen
“I SET MY SEARCH FOR PERSONAL MEANING, FOR A VISION OF THE SACRED, FOR AN AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY WITNESS AND EFFECTIVE APOSTOLIC SERVICE.” FROM THE VOW FORMULA OF THE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF THE THIRD ORDER OF ST. FRANCIS
Sister Cecilia Zielen Sr. Cecilia Zielen (Rosanne) once stated that “My dream for us
With these words, and the profession of poverty, chastity, and obedience, the
P
as Sisters of St. Joseph of the
newly-vowed member begins another phase of integration into the life and mis-
Third Order of St. Francisis
sion of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. At this time
that we experience an
the Sister commits herself to God and to the Congregation for a limited peri-
IMPLOSION of right
od of time, usually three years, during which she and members of the
relationships with God, one
Community discern her readiness for profession of perpetual vows.
another and creation.” This
This time of integration which follows the novitiate, opens new horizons for the
dream is what Sr. Cecilia works to
newly professed Sister. These horizons may include specialized training, academ-
bring to reality in her role as
ic studies, other preparations for ministry or direct involvement in the ministries
minister to the temporary professed
of the Congregation. This period is a time of transition characterized by signifi-
sisters. “Right relationships” have been at the heart of her
cant changes.
One of these changes may involve a new environment. This may be living in a different residence or moving to another geographic area. It may also mean a shift in the daily schedule, or the daily routine, and includes learning other ways of doing things. Flexibility and adaptability are important components as the Sister adjusts to these changes.
Sister Barbara Ann Gluck, Temporary Professed “I felt I was truly ‘coming home’ when I attended my first Come and See weekend. The sisters gave me the strength and courage to move forward with my decision to say ‘yes’ to God’s call.”
In addition, the temporary professed Sister experiences a shift in focus. The pri-
experiences as a biology teacher, in congregational administration, director of youth development programs or director of religious education programs. All of this background converges into the companioning of the sisters prior to their final profession.
mary goal of developing and strengthening her commitment as a woman religious in community has not changed. The emphasis, however, does change. The Sister becomes involved in activities that have not been a part of the novitiate. The temporary professed Sister has many opportunities to meet new people and develop new relationships. Reaching out to connect with others, as well as attempting to become a part of various communities requires time and energy which can stretch and strengthen her in a variety of ways. These opportunities call forth the exercise of a variety of skills. Consequently, the temporary professed Sister continues her personal and professional development which she applies in multiple settings. She moves into a place of deeper awareness of God’s goodness and her own potential and purpose.
(continued on page 11)
THE SISTER EXPLORES
(continued from page 10)
P HOW HER LIFE, GIFTS,
AND ABILITIES SERVE TO
All these changes challenge the Sister to maintain a healthy balance
HELP HER LIVE THE
among the key components of religious life—community, prayer, and
MISSION OF THE CON-
studies or ministry. A significant person who helps the temporary
GREGATION: TO MAKE
professed Sister to embrace all the challenges that lie ahead, is the
GOD MORE DEEPLY
KNOWN AND LOVED,
Companion Sister. The Companion Sister serves as a mentor, guide, and witness in the ongoing process of integration. She journeys with the temporary professed as she enters more deeply into the depths
AND IN SO DOING DRAW
of her heart, the place of her core identity. There the Sister explores
ALL PERSONS TO FULLER
how her life, gifts, and abilities serve to help her live the Mission of
AND FREER LIFE.
the Congregation: To make God more deeply known and loved, and in so doing draw all persons to fuller and freer life. Day by day, as the temporary professed Sister journeys in her search for personal meaning, a vision of the Sacred, authentic community witness, and effective apostolic service, she realizes that her growth into religious life is the work of the Spirit. She learns that all is grace; everything moves and grows and continues to develop with the Spirit’s loving guidance. Becoming an authentic woman religious involves many years of ongoing conversion, some pain and suffering and the wisdom that comes from experiencing Gospel life at its fullest. It is only in the labyrinth and crucible of life that each Sister shapes and determines her life with responsibility, integrity and fidelity to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Spirit of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis.
Sister Jo Ann Poplar, Temporary Professed “The lifestyle of a woman religious is constantly dynamic —learning, growing spiritually, and discovering new strengths, while being called to service of others.”
As a temporary professed sister, my vowed life is lived out in daily activities. I go to school every day and volunteer at a local parish by teaching First communion on Sundays. Besides these everyday duties, I meet once a month with a companion sister—a sister who can guide me in community life and my spiritual life. Every six weeks I meet with a spiritual director who encourages me in my spirituality journey. Once a month I join with my local community of sisters with whom I share my life experiences. With all of these responsibilities and activities I am learning how to do more than just live. I am learning to incorporate community living into these activities, and how to bring the Franciscan charism into my daily living and to the people that I meet.
Sister Kimberly Mulhearn, Temporary Professed July 10, 2004 was one of the happiest days of my life. That was the day I professed the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience for three years as a Sister of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. I am currently engaged in full-time ministry as an educational interpreter for the hearing impaired with the South Bend Schools. I am also working toward my master’s degree in special education. I
Sister Lisa Alexander, Temporary Professed “I was at a ‘crossroad’ moment in my life when the Gospel words hit home: ‘If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have, and give to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven.’”
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teach religious education (confirmation classes) at St. Patrick/St. Hedwig parish. My experience in novitiate grounded me in a solid prayer life, and helped me learn to live in a Franciscan community. As a temporary professed sister, I am putting into practice what I learned in novitiate. Guided by my temporary professed minister, and my companion sister, I am continuing to deepen my prayer life and to learn how to live in community while engaged in full-time ministry. Sister Shannon Fox, Temporary Professed
LIVING A
VOWED LIFE C
hoosing a lifestyle situates an individual in a set of values, a respected tradition and a way of being on this earth. The life as a vowed religious stands shoulder to shoulder with the vowed married life, the dedicated single life and the consecrated priesthood. All are engaged in building the kingdom, each in a unique way. But even as the choice of lifestyle is made, a parallel question is raised: How will I live out the commitment I have made?
The Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis are very clear about the values, tradition and direction to which the congregation is committed:
Dedication to Jesus Christ involves us, Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis, intimately with His liberating and reconciling mission—to make God more deeply known and loved and in so doing draw all persons to fuller and freer life. Together with all our sisters and brothers who strive for a more just world, we undertake those activities which will promote the material and spiritual development of the human family. (continued on page 13)
(continued from page 12)
LIVING A
VOWED LIFE Within the scope of their mission statement and the commitment of a vowed life, parameters, the sisters have chosen life work options in the areas of:
Pastoral, Parish and Diocesan Ministries - The material and spiritual development of the human family is at the heart of the pastoral Sister Mary Ann Stoltz
work of the sisters. Pastoral work takes on several different forms. There are sisters
who are certified as hospital chaplains, working with patients and
Sister Mary Ann Stoltz (Pius) is
families at critically significant times in their lives, giving solace, celebration and
starting her ninth year at
spiritual meaning to the physical changes taking place. Sisters provide pastoral
St. Bronislava Parish in Plover,
counseling services, grief counseling, and various therapies leading to wholeness.
Wisconsin. When asked to summa-
Sisters serve on parish staffs as pastoral associates, directors of various parish
rize her job at the parish where
educational programs, ministers of care for the sick, elderly and shut-ins.
she and the pastor serve 1,975
Members of the congregation head centers of spirituality, providing retreats,
households, she says,
programs and spiritual counseling. Sisters also serve in (arch)diocesan offices,
“I do everything a priest can
directing various programs benefiting God's people in different locations of
do within the current limits of what the church allows!” When Sr. Mary Ann arrived at St. Bronislava, she was the first sister to serve at the parish in 60 years. Her presence is deeply appreciated by the parish community. In her role as pastoral minister, Sr. Mary Ann conducts communion services and prayer services; assists at Baptisms; is a Eucharistic Minister; does hospital and home visits with Eucharist, prayer, spiritual counseling and warm friendship; directs the RCIA program; attends Parish Council meetings and other planning meetings; conducts wake prayer services; serves as grief counselor; and other parish organizational duties. “I try to model the possibilities of women’s leadership role in a parish setting,” says Sr. Mary Ann. That’s something she does superbly well!
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Vol. 5 No. 3
the country.
Sister Alice Myslinski Sister Alice Myslinski (Sarah) has spent most of her educational ministry in school administration.
Education - Catholic schools, as well as public schools, still experience the dedication of sisters who
Her success lies in the fact that she has a superb combination of
work for the material and spiritual development of
administrative skills and a genuine
children and youth. Education was the original impe-
love for the people with whom she
tus for the founding of the congregation.The question,
works. She has been principal of
uttered by the co-foundress Mother Mary Felicia
Good Shepherd School for the last
Jaskulski, still sounds across the decades, “What will
twelve years, a school located in
happen to the children?� In 1901, the need was for
the heart of the Little Village
the children of immigrant parents to learn the
neighborhood in Chicago, Illinois.
language and customs of the country they now held as
The children are learning.
their own. The educational needs of children may have changed over time, but the need for high quality teachers providing superb education is constant. The SSJ-TOSFs now serve as teachers, professors, principals and superintendents in educational institutions across the country.
(continued on page 15)
They are happy and eager, as are the faculty members. Sr. Alice knows how to maintain a wholly
LIVING A
holy atmosphere that is genuinely
VOWED LIFE
human. That has always been her gift. She was a classroom teacher for two years before she became a grade school principal, and then a high school principal. She is a person grounded in God, and emanates a holy spirit wherever she goes. Good Shepherd School is blessed with this gifted Franciscan SSJ-TOSF principal!
(continued from page 14)
LIVING A
VOWED LIFE Healthcare- Healthcare began as a ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis with the opening of St. Theresa Convalescent Home in Denver, Colorado. It was 1929 and St. Theresa was the first congregational property devoted exclusively to Sister Sandy LoPorto If there is anyone who is committed to the “minores,” it’s Sr. Sandy LoPorto (Joseph Mary). She began her healthcare ministry in1992 when she earned her degree in nursing. “I was committed to providing healthcare for the poor,” said Sr. Sandy. She worked as a hospice nurse for AIDS patients, first at a nursing home, then at the Hospice of Western Reserve in Cleveland, Ohio. Her work expanded to include hospice care for cancer patients. Currently she works at St. Joseph’s Home which provides transitional housing for homeless men with health needs and medical problems. It was a fitting convergence of her previous ministry experiences. She has been a teacher, a pastoral minister, a community organizer, and a factory worker. For ten years, she was a staff member at the 8th Day Center for Justice in Chicago, Illinois, working on issues of peace and justice, and working for the rights of the poor. It is that same spirit that moves Sr. Sandy in her work at Joseph’s Home, the spirit that moved Jesus to compassion for those who were suffering.
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healthcare. Since then, the congregation has owned and administered eight more healthcare institutions in which the sisters have ministered as nurses, technicians, administrators, and board members. Marymount Hospital, which is a member of the Cleveland Health Systems in Garfield Heights, Ohio, is the only hospital now sponsored by the SSJ- TOSFs. However, sisters are on staff in hospitals throughout the United States. They also serve in nursing homes, hospice care centers, mental health clinics, AIDS ministries, prisons, and local emergency clinics. Healthcare continues to be a way that the congregation provides for the “material and spiritual development of the human family.”
Sister Anne Maslanka
Congregational Services - Whenever a group of people gathers together, they tend to
Sister Anne Maslanka (Alberta) is
organize themselves and assume roles that benefit
the Coordinator for Personal Care
the group. A religious congregation is served by
Services at Marymount
people whose full time task is to provide for the
Congregational Home in Garfield
members
Heights, Ohio. Her role includes
through
leadership
and
services.
Congregational services can take on a variety of forms. In the larger congregational homes, basic needs of food preparation, laundry, building maintenance, and other “family” needs are undertaken by some of the members of the congregation. Each of the congregational homes also has a team of sisters
the personal care of the fifty-five sisters who are in residence at Marymount. Each day has its demands and surprises: At one time, setting up an exercise
coordinating management services and personal services, especially for the retired sisters and those in
room for the sisters, the next day
nursing care. No matter how they serve, each sister is drawn by the congregation's Statement of Direction:
might be an emergency trip to the
“We strive to establish dwelling places and homes that promote and challenge personal, communal, and
hospital; one day is a Jubilee
ministerial growth.”
celebration for the sisters, and the (continued on page 17)
next, planning a funeral for a sister who just died. To remain gracious and to meet each event with equanimity, the way Sr. Anne does,
LIVING A
is witness to the commitment she
VOWED LIFE
has to the material and spiritual development of the sisters. Her care and compassion were well developed over the years when she was a teacher and principal. She was also in congregational leadership as well as parish ministry. For eight years prior to her coming to the congregational home, Sr. Anne was the Staff Chaplain at Marymount Hospital.
(continued from page 16)
LIVING A
VOWED LIFE Sister Beth Konkol
Business Services - Office management, accounting, technical services, and organizational management offer more avenues of ministry. Sisters are applying office management skills to diocesan offices,
“It’s the perfect job!” That is
computer skills to school and institutional situations, program development and implementation, oversight of
the way Sister Beth Konkol
corporate compliance to federal and local laws, and institutional leadership. The material and spiritual
(DePaul) describes her ministry as
development of the human family can be realized through systems in which solid moral and ethical values hold
Executive Assistant to the Provincial
sway. Again, the Statement of Direction of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis clearly
at the OFM Provincial Office of
says, “We accept the power within us to shape and determine our lives with responsibility, integrity, and
St. Barbara Province in Alameda,
fidelity to the Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ and the spirit and life of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third
California. She points to the high quality people she encounters every day in the Provincial Office which is the hub of activity for the province of some 240 Franciscan friars. Of course, Sr. Beth brings an enormous amount of talent to the position. She herself served as a Provincial Director and Team Member of the St. Joseph Province of the SSJ-TOSFs in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Later she served on the Central Board of the congregation. In addition to her administrative experience, Sr. Beth shares a Franciscan spirit with the OFMs (Order of the Friars Minor) with whom she works. Put that together with her ability to organize, prioritize and produce, and out comes “the perfect job.”
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Vol. 5 No. 3
Order of St. Francis.”
Social Services- Another way of living out the vowed life of a religious sister is through services that benefit society. The congregation places itself clearly in the gospel values of Jesus and the spirit of St. Francis.
Sister Jennifer Ladowski
“With Francis, we seek to identify with the minores, the ‘little, the poor and the unwanted,’” says the Statement of Direction. Sisters have shaped ministries to the developmentally handicapped, the unemployed, the incarcerated, AIDS patients, mental health patients, women with at-risk pregnancies, the under-insured, and the homebound. In another area of social work, sisters are dedicated to efforts of peace and justice. They stand, quite literally, with those who are falsely accused or otherwise burdened by injustices.They work tirelessly to assure that society does not create the inequalities that cause hatred and war. If it is true that sisters are called to “model the possible,” moving forward into ministries that are currently needed in the church and in the world, the area of social work provides ample opportunity. (continued on page 19)
LIVING A
VOWED LIFE
Sister Jennifer Ladowski works for the City of Milwaukee Health Department. “Our main mission is to BE for the poor,” explains Sr. Jennifer. And, indeed, the clients of the Health Department are the uninsured and the underinsured, people of all ages who fall outside health care coverage. Sr. Jennifer is a Registered Nurse, but, by and large, the Health Department does not provide direct nursing service. Rather, they are a clearinghouse, looking to connect people with sources of care. One advantage of the City of Milwaukee Health Department is its in-depth knowledge of the geographic area. Given the variety of calls received, the staff has the ability to connect the inquirer with family health clinics, tuberculosis control centers, AIDS clinics, sources for hepatitis immunization, well baby clinics, and resources for the control of communicable diseases. The work of the department extends even to things like pest control and food sanitation. The department reviews all birth certificates and determines babies that may be at risk, providing home visits and newborn screening. These are services that would not otherwise be available to a segment of the city’s population. Sr. Jennifer truly stands with the poor.
Sister Regina Wachowski “As a Sister of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis, I hold strongly the words of our Statement on Apostolic Mission: ‘Wherever we serve, we do so with the sincere respect for those with whom we minister,’” says Sister Regina Wachowski. “Through my ministry with the people in the Base Christian Communities, with the women in the Pastoral for Marginalized Women, and with the youth who are in restricted liberty due to felonies committed, I have tried not just to DO, but to BE, side by side, accompanying those who are minores.” Sr. Regina has been serving in Brazil for more than thirty years. She worked with Project Esperanca, traveling by boat on the Amazon bringing healthcare to the interior villages. She worked in community health education and laboratory services for people while providing spiritual nourishment during visits to the Base Christian Communities. She was Executive Secretary for the Pastoral for Marginalized Women on the national level. She now works in St.Vincent de Paul parish in Manaus, Amazonas, engaged in formation programs for leaders, bible study, and activities in the national program “Fome Zero” (Hunger Zero), conducting culinary classes, teaching women to use what is available and nutritious. Love has its energy.
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LIVING A
VOWED LIFE Missions off the Mainland - Although the call to foreign mission was positively received as early as 1951 with the opening of a school and hospital in rural Mississippi, it was not until 1962 that the first Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis left the mainland for work in Puerto Rico. The sisters staffed schools and carried on pastoral work in Lares, Jayuya, and Quebradillas. Since then, sisters have extended the missionary activity of the congregation to Peru, Brazil, South Africa and other parts of Puerto Rico. In each of these areas, the sisters continue the tradition of serving the poor, and creating those systems that bring peace and justice.
The web site of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis is full of information about the life and ministry of the sisters. We invite you to visit the site at www.ssj-tosf.org and experience another way of getting information “About Us.” There are several ways in which you can discover, for example, the history of the congregation. Just click “About Us” and the “History” button. The “Vision and Mission” will contain all the statements of the SSJ-TOSFs that direct their mission and ministry. You can also find information about the congregation’s commitment to social justice, and how you can partner with the sisters in efforts toward peace. There are various events sponsored or led by the sisters, such as retreats, lectures, discussion groups, and a variety of therapies. You can even visit the Sisters’ Store. You are also invited to partner with the sisters by sharing your prayer intentions or by joining them as an associate member or as a vowed member.
Wishing you peace and all good, as you gift us with a cyber-visit!
www.ssj-tosf.org
Visit Our Web Site
Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis
715.341.8437 e-mail: vocation@ssj-tosf.org
www.ssj-tosf.org or send the following information to: Sister Debra Ann Weina, Vocation Minister, 1300 Maria Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin 54481
Name Address City, State, Zip Phone E-mail Highest level of eduction completed
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Vol. 5 No. 3
Day of Discernment A day of prayer, companionship, and celebration for women, ages 18 years and up, who are interested in religious life. January 22, 2005 Immaculata Congregational Home • 801 West Bartlett, Road • Bartlett, IL 60103
Franciscan Spirituality Weekend A “Come and See” weekend for women, ages 16 years and up. The weekend will focus on the spirituality, lifestyle and life events of SS. Clare and Francis. The location of the retreat house on the shore of the Wisconsin River is conducive to a relaxing time away. March 18-20, 2005 River Pines Retreat House • Whiting, WI
Come and See Wee kend A time for women, ages 16 years and up, to learn about the life and spirit of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. The weekend is hosted at the congregational home in Garfield Heights, Ohio. April 15-17, 2005 Marymount Congregational Home • 12215 Granger Road • Garfield Heights, OH 44125
Dare to Dream Weekend This weekend is for high school and college women, ages 14 through 26, who would like to experience the life and spirituality of SS. Clare and Francis, as well as the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. The retreat house is located by the Wisconsin River, amid stately pines. May 20-22, 2005 River Pines Retreat House • Whiting, WI
Come and See Weekend A time for women, ages 16 years and up, to learn about the life and spirit of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis. The retreat house is located by the Wisconsin River, amid stately pines. August 5-7. 2005 River Pines Retreat House • Whiting, WI
Contact:
Sister Debra Ann Weina, Vocation Minister 1300 Maria Drive Stevens Point, WI 54481 (715) 341-8457 Fax: (715) 341-8830 E-mail: vocation@ssj-tosf.org Web site: www.ssj-tosf.org
Dear Friends,
T
he call to religious life is a gift, a response to God’s call to serve His people in a special way. It may be a call to a myriad of vocations or, to a specific religious community like the Sisters
of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis.
Often the vision and mission of a specific religious community speaks to a young woman as she seeks Sister Denise Seymour
to determine how to answer God’s call. It is our Vocation/Formation Office that assists young women in discerning what their specific call is and where it may be best fulfilled. Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis Development Office P.O. Box 388129 Chicago, IL 60638-8129
Serving in our Vocation/Formation Office is one of our most cherished ministries because it assures the future continuance of our mission to all God’s people.
Phone: (773) 581-7505 Fax: (773) 581-7545 e-mail: dev@ssj-tosf.org
It is your prayerful and financial support of The Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis that makes you an active participant in assuring that the ministry and vision of our Foundresses, serving the little ones, the minores in our society, continues by increasing our membership.
We are grateful to you for joining with us in fostering vocations to religious life. You, our friends and benefactors, are in our prayers.
May our Lord watch over you and grant you many blessings.
Sincerely in Christ,
Sister Denise Seymour, SSJ-TOSF Director of Development
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Vol. 5 No. 3
Sister Helen Cymanski (Viola) Born to this life: January 26, 1924 Born to eternal life: July 31, 2004 Sister, friend, missionary, lover of peace and justice, Sister Helen’s gentle spirit enriched the lives she touched.
Sister Dorothy Kubisiak (Edwardine) Born to this life: February 26, 1916 Born to eternal life: October 7, 2004 As a nurse, Sister Dorothy left a legacy of superior healthcare; as a sister, friend and neighbor, she left a legacy of love.
Sister Placida Kinnick Born to this life: July 26, 1909 Born to eternal life: August 19, 2004 Sister Placida’s ministry of baking altar bread for Eucharistic celebrations was a reflection of her deep prayer life.
Sister Marianne Mareczko Born to this life: July 19, 1915 Born to eternal life: October 8, 2004 Sister Marianne lived out St. Francis’ admonition, “Let them only be concerned to serve, love, adore and honor the Lord God, as best they can with singleheartedness and purity of intention.”
Sister Mary Disher (Domitilla) Born to this life: June 30, 1915 Born to eternal life: August 25, 2004 A teacher whose spirit and enthusiasm led thousands of children to a love of learning, Sr. Mary worked to preserve the beauty of the Polish language and traditions.
Sister Emily Ann Lyzen (Remigia) Born to this life: August 2, 1923 Born to eternal life: October 31, 2004 An artist, a teacher and a minister to the elderly, Sister Emily Ann colored our world with love.
Sister Mary Clementia Krolikowski Born to this life: December 28, 1908 Born to eternal life: September 14, 2004 Sister Clementia’s spirit of joy never waned during all her years as a Business Arts teacher, blessing her sisters, colleagues and students.
Sister Casimir Marie Cudnik Born to this life: August 19, 1916 Born to eternal life: November 5, 2004 “The nun who wore purple,” Sister Casey’s sense of humor was grounded in a profound spirituality and excellence in teaching and leading.
Immaculata Congregational Home 801 West Bartlett Road Bartlett, Illinois (630) 837-4061
The Congregational Homes of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis
Marymount Congregational Home 12215 Granger Road Garfield Heights, Ohio (216) 581-3535
St. Joseph Congregational Home 1300 Maria Drive Stevens Point,Wisconsin (715) 344-2830
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID CHICAGO, IL PERMIT #5504
Sisters of St. Joseph,TOSF Development Office P.O. Box 388129 Chicago, Illinois 60638-8129 www.ssj-tosf.org