"You are my companion and must walk with me. For if we hold together no earthly power can withstand us."
- Saint Dominic de Guzman
Saint Dominic de Guzman and Aza
Bronze Sculpture by Phyllis Mrozinski OP †
Our Hebrew roots provide a tradition for Jubilee to be celebrated every fifty years. In our Dominican tradition, we have developed our own customs. Our celebration of Jubilee brings our Jubilarians back to their origin in the Congregation. We honor each woman and find ways to identify her unique contributions to our lives. We tell stories about our lives, our learnings, and our joys and sorrows. We celebrate!
Each Jubilarian has a story to tell, and the common threads of our stories are enhanced by one another. The unfolding of the mystery of God’s presence in our lives is awesome. We recognize this unfolding mystery of dying and being reborn as we walk together throughout life. Each Sister’s and Associate’s YES, each day, enhances the whole community.
As we continue to be inflamed with contemplative love daily, we are so grateful for these holy disciples who celebrate their Jubilee this year. We continue to be enriched by their lives.
80 Years – 1943
† Geraldine Fox
† Mary Edward Plamondon
70 Years – 1953
† Magdalena Conway
† William Mary Conway
† Nancy Ribble
† Jaqueline Hudson
† JoAnn Boucher
† Jacqueline Bennett
† Jeanne Marie Jones
75 Years – 1948
† Catherine Ann Winowiecki
† Carol Ann Nowak
† Helen Miller
† Rita Barreras
† Audrey Sanchez
† John Therese Kusba
† Stella Jozwiak
† Louisa Mogdis
† Thaddeus Kowalinski
† Eunice Cronin
† Rose Patrice O’Donnell
† Barbara Ann Seymour
† Vita Licari
25 Years – 1998
† Helen Gancarz, Associate
After almost 100 years of life and 80 years as a Dominican, I have learned to be silent and make space for God to speak. God speaks to me as I visit the chapel but also in many other ways. Nature reflects God’s beauty in a snowfall, changing colors with the seasons, flowers springing up on campus, and with squirrels scampering about. My eyes delight and my heart knows God speaks.
In temperate weather, I ride outdoors able to touch leaves and smell flowers. Touch makes life REAL. I notice details in objects and listen as another shares the object’s story. As for taste, my caregivers know I love muffins any time of the day; and when I hear music, my feet start dancing although I’m in a chair. I often read cards sent by family and friends. All my senses are active!
“Oh there’s muffins! How wonderful!”
Sr. Verona loves muffins any time of the day.
My faith in God’s goodness guides my life. Trust channels peace into me, and love urges me to share God’s love with others. I am grateful for God’s many gifts. My family, the Congregation, parishes, schools, and neighbors have and continue to help me hear God’s voice in my LIFE.
“Clear a space in your mind; Make silence in your heart for God to speak.”
Seventy-five years as a Grand Rapids Dominican has been a very exciting and rewarding experience for me. I am the second oldest in my family of three boys and three girls. My parents, Wenz and Emma Nietling Kulhanek, chose Chesaning, Michigan as our home, and there at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School is where I received my education through the ninth grade. Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters were my teachers, and from them I learned about the Aspirancy Program at Marywood Academy. I was an Aspirant for three years. Then I became a Postulant and received my mother’s name, Emma.
My main ministry was that of teacher and principal in small and large schools throughout Michigan. Working in inner city schools was of special interest and rewarding to me, especially having students come back and tell me what they learned was so very helpful in their later life. Other ministries included Pastoral Care and doing volunteer work on the Marywood Campus.
For enjoyment I have enjoyed reading, walking, playing cards, and traveling, especially with my family and close friends. I feel blessed to have lived such a full life.
“In stillness and in quiet confidence is my strength.”
In her free time, you can find Sr. Emma enjoying a good book.
Ipraise and thank God for these seventy-five years as a Grand Rapids Dominican. Most of these years I taught elementary students who were a source of energy and joy, and who challenged and enriched me in many ways. I also enjoyed other opportunities to serve in varied ways as being a Eucharistic Minister, visiting the sick and elderly, working at the Michigan Blood Center, Tandem 365, the WORD~ESL program, driving the Sisters to appointments, and gardening.
Sr. Mary hosting the class of 1947 in South Haven (above) and enjoying coffee at sunrise with Sr. Marie Kathleen McCrackin† (below).
I was fortunate to have many opportunities to travel, which I loved. I toured many states, four European countries, and went on several Caribbean cruises. All led to exciting, adventurous, and memorable times. One of the most awesome places was Vatican City.
Reflecting on these seventy-five years, I am filled with gratitude and happiness for my religious vocation. God has so enriched me with His love and abundant blessings. I’m so grateful for my loving family, faithful friends and my Dominican Sisters who have loved, supported, and encouraged me throughout these years.
“I have loved you and you are Mine.”
In the Summer 2022 issue of Occasional Papers, published by the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, the theme was Recapturing Our Original Love.
Recently, I came across a photo that took me back more than seventy years and seemed to fit the above theme and the fact that sometimes the original draw comes through another person. This photo was taken on August 18, 1952, shortly before my coming to Marywood on September 8, 1952. I am pictured with Sister John Marie.
I first met Sister John Marie at St. Mary’s School in Muskegon shortly after V-J Day at the end of August in 1945. My friend and I went to school to help the new Sister who would be our seventh-grade teacher move the books, etc. from what had been the seventh grade classroom on the main floor to the classroom on the basement floor, which had been our sixth grade room the previous year.
Sister John Marie was an excellent teacher. She taught us how to diagram sentences, which I have used ever since. We also memorized the 48 (then) states and their capitals (which I cannot do now). But it was really during recess that we got to know her on another level. She played ball with us and even jumped rope once! She talked and visited with us and was very human.
She became my inspiration. I kept in touch with her and drove to see her shortly before entering, hence the picture. Sister John Marie and the Sisters at St. Mary’s led me to Dominican life.
Three Promises to Keep (below) written by our Sister Mona Schwind†, seems appropriate when the time has come to celebrate a seventieth jubilee as a Grand Rapids Dominican.
I dreamt a vow last night and its name was Povertyfrightening in its austerity until I woke to Plenitude
I dreamt a vow last night and its name was Chastityfrightening in its solitude until I awoke to Love
I dreamt a vow last night and its name was Obediencefrightening in its consequents until I awoke to Liberty
“I will give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with all my heart and I will glorify your name forever. Great has been your kindness to me.” ~ Psalm 86: 12-13
Seventy years seems like a long time to be committed to a ministry of service to others, but that is what I have been privileged as a Grand Rapids Dominican to do.
My mother was a teacher and used to tell interesting stories of her years as a teacher; and my own experience of having good teachers, I think, prompted me to gladly accept teaching as my first ministry. For 43 years I taught and was Principal in eight schools mainly in the Grand Rapids Diocese. Some years during summer breaks I volunteered doing different kinds of work. A few summers I helped out at Aquinata Hall, so in 1997 when I was asked to take the position of Common Life Coordinator, I didn’t hesitate to accept the position. It is a privilege to serve our Sisters and others whose health and age no longer permit them to do what they once could do.
Both teaching and working at Aquinata Hall have helped me stretch my abilities for which I am very grateful. I often remind myself how blessed I am and have been because of my trust in the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Mystery envelops my mind as I ponder my abundantly graced life journey.
Mystery at being born in a valley (Penasco, NM) where I was blessed with an extensive, loving family, a grounding in a faith that carries and guides me to this day, and a love of nature that infuses my prayer and provides nourishment for my art and writing experiences.
Mystery of an unexpected call to vowed life, away from the familiar and “re-birth” into a completely unfamiliar way of life. A life that, ever so subtly, so patiently, so gently has guided me to an abundance of blessings that have allowed me to interact with school children, the poor unhoused, and so many dear families and friends, all who have enriched my life.
Mystery of arriving at this moment of Jubilee, 60 years a Dominican, where I ponder my unexpected journey of daily blessings that continue to astound and humble me.
Mystery indeed that from the first breath of my life I have been given life in abundance from a God who never stops loving me into existence. For all that has been, I am forever grateful.
“I came that you may have life and have it abundantly.”
~ John 10:10
The blessings of my 3rd Age have sparked untapped creativity of the Arts with which to spontaneously gift self and others.
“Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you: Your right hand upholds me.”
On June 24, 1944, at 11:07pm, Betty Katherine Pavoni was born to Katherine and Joseph Pavoni. Mary Jane followed in 1946, Linda followed in 1950. Grand Rapids, Michigan, was home until 1957 when the family relocated to Saginaw, Michigan. Entrance day, September 8, 1962, from SS Peter and Paul High School, Saginaw, Michigan.
Over my 60 years, I have enjoyed travel in the US, many years via tent comforts. The Lands of Dominic tour was especially meaningful during the 2000 Jubilee Year and we were able to walk through the Jubilee Doors. My ministry allowed me to serve as a Physical Therapist Assistant for 40+ years and as a Guild Certified Feldenkrais® Teacher for a 15-year ministry — these years overlapped. In these ministries, I have touched many lives with the help of the Lord.
Home is where you pitch your tent.
As I type these words, my view from my bedroom window is of our 100+ year-old Marywood building. Many memories of life shared, life lived, life companions, life prayer. I am grateful and humbled as I have been supported, encouraged and loved into life in this Dominican Community.
~ Psalm 63:7-8
The ten years since my 50th jubilee have passed quickly; filled with joyous events, sorrowful events, and many ordinary days. All of the days have been filled with “the glory of God” as I travel on life’s joyful pilgrimage with God, with my Dominican Sisters, my birth family, and my friends.
These past ten years presented two major challenges. We moved from the large Marywood Motherhouse to the smaller building on campus. In my role as our congregational Librarian, I had the task of moving our Motherhouse library from the “old” Motherhouse building to the “new” Motherhouse. This task was a huge undertaking primarily because the library collection had to be reduced to a much smaller collection.
The second challenge was moving from a Marywood apartment to a new apartment at 601 Spring Avenue NE. My tasks included deciding which furniture to move, packing, tagging furniture and boxes. Travelling on in new settings.
“All will be well. And all manner of things will be well.”
~ Julian of NorwichSr. Mary Pat at the new Marywood Community Libary.
“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news.”
~ Isaiah 52:7
Iembark on my 60th Jubilee celebration with Great Thanksgiving. It is my family, my Community members, my friends – even students and strangers – who have been “sent” into my life to deepen in me a love of God and the Word of God. Happily, I listened to most of their wisdom and heard God’s call to contribute my unique gifts to the Dominican Family, living the Motto: To Praise, To Bless, and To Preach Jesus Christ.
“The Word is near you, on your lips and in your heart.” ~ Romans 10:5 God has used me as an instrument of Faith through my ministries as a Teacher, a Campus Minister, a Vocation Director, a Retreat director, a Congregational Leader, and a friend.
Spurred on by others’ invitations over the past 8 years, I’ve taken to writing Reflections, Poems, and Blessings for different occasions. I try to capture what’s weighing on my heart and transpiring in the world and then write.
I feel blessed to be living in this challenging time of Environmental consciousness, Justice probing, Reparation-seeking and Global interdependence. I applaud Pope Francis’ Leadership in calling all of us to Spiritual renewal where conversion of heart and lifestyle are essential; where the wonder and awe of God’s Presence in Creation leads us to reverence all life.
“Bless God, my soul, and all that is in me; remember all God’s kindnesses.” ~ Psalm 103:1-2
Yesterday is history, tomorrow is mystery.
As I reflect on 60 years of Dominican life, I am amazed how these six words have guided me...
I was born in Bay City, the daughter of Carl and Agnes Moeggenborg. The family eventually moved to rural Shepherd. There we lived among aunts, uncles, and cousins. In due time, our family welcomed additional children – 15 in all. Three children became our special angels shortly after birth.
My education began in a one-room country school. After grade school, we attended Shepherd High School. During my senior year, a car accident claimed the life of our father. It was a life-changing time for me. Encouraged by my mother, I accepted a scholarship and attended Central Michigan College hoping one day to be a teacher.
It was during that year that I heard that quiet invitation to enter religious life. I tried my best to quell that inner voice until I realized checking it out might bring peace. Every day I woke up feeling a bit more confident of that call.
As a child my wish was to become a teacher. As a Dominican Sister my wish was fulfilled. Teaching young children was a delight. As principal I found the challenge working with teachers and parents rewarding. Next came the invitation to vocation ministry. It was a prayerful experience. And I can’t neglect the volunteer work, a variety of opportunities to continue involvement in ministry. Yes, not only was my childhood dream fulfilled, but it was embellished by so many who supported and challenged me along the way. My life as a Dominican has afforded me with challenges beyond my dreams. Places I’ve seen, people I’ve met, each one unfolding the mysteries of life.
I am extremely grateful to my mother for her support, to the community for the numerous opportunities, and to all those who have touched my life, each in their own way. Much history has been lived these 60 years. I still marvel at the mystery of tomorrow.
Blessed in a beautiful family.
Blessed to have been educated by Grand Rapids Dominicans at SS Peter and Paul School in Saginaw.
Blessed to have joined the Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids in 1962.
Blessed with education from Aquinas, Central Michigan University, and St. Mary’s and Covenant HealthCare.
Blessed to have served as a teacher and principal for 36 years.
Blessed to have served as chaplain at Covenant, Saginaw.
Blessed to be a certified chaplain for 21 years.
Blessed to have been a volunteer for SPRED, special religious development for the mentally challenged.
Blessed to have had a ministry in Saginaw, so I could offer service for my parents until they died.
Blessed to spend my time with friends who tell me every day –how blessed we are.
Blessed to have so many life-long friends over the years. For all that has been, thanks, for all that will be...
Sr. Anne (seated far left) enjoyed her time volunteering with SPRED.
Hello and goodbyes have often been difficult. On my 20th birthday of September 8, 1962, I said goodbye to my boyfriend at my front door and left for Maywood by the back door. When my parents dropped me off, they were in tears, and I was in fear. What was going to happen to me after I finally answered THE CALL? My parents called my uncle, a parole officer, and he reassured my parents that I would be sent home in two weeks…and that was some 60 years ago.
A second major goodbye was after my fantastic trip to the Lands of Dominic with 40 Dominicans from twelve different communities! To pray in Dominic’s home, travel the road he walked, and share common heritage, was a holy experience, but Lourdes was the holiest I ever felt. Yes, it was difficult to say goodbye to my “Dominican Experience,” but I received a much deeper appreciation of my Dominican Family.
“Going once! Going twice... Sold!” at our annual Golf Outing. “Retirement” allows me to engage in many different volunteer opportunities.
My new world community was formed by a sabbatical trip to the Holy Land with CTU students from around our world! We prayed, ate, studied, and traveled together while seeing many digs and holy sites. My most moving holy site was in Ein Kerem standing at the foot of a flight of stairs looking up at the two bronze statues - Mary greeting Elizabeth. Two pregnant women sharing joy and understanding over the God within.
Yes, I have a blessed communal life, and I give thanks to a most loving, gracious, and compassionate God who is ever within, ever guiding and ever friend.
“I have called you friends.”
~ John 15:15
In my early years in Alpena, I was attracted to the joy, freedom, and friendly spirit of the Dominican Sisters, especially Sisters Marie Michael and Lisa Marie.
I traveled by bus to Marywood; when I walked up the drive, I knew in my heart that this is the place that I would grow, live, and love God more. I would not turn back on this romance!
Though nervous, I felt I needed to talk with Mother Victor about a possibility to gain education to become a teacher. She graciously listened and said, “I’ll give you one year.” After a successful year, Mother greeted me with, “I have a place for you.” From that point on, my love of teaching gave me confidence to be a teacher and an administrator for over 52 years.
My adventure took me to Taylor, Melvindale, Saginaw, Tawas, Grand Rapids in Michigan; Penasco, New Mexico; and a visit to Chimbote. I surprised myself many times on how God’s hand was working in and through me.
Then my search to see God’s work called me to serve the sick and elderly. After training for Hospital Chaplaincy, I served the combined parishes at Bay City Medical Center. Here again stories of patients and staff opened me to the work of God the Comforter.
Presently, I assist Sisters at Aquinata Hall. It’s a task I greet with delight, energy, and mutual smiles. God’s Spirit has guided my path with joy to move at the right time to the right place.
I give thanks for my 60 years of Dominican life. “I rejoice and proclaim the goodness of God’s steadfast love forever.” ~ Psalm 92
“To Love God is the greatest romance. To Seek God is the greatest adventure. To Find God is the greatest achievement.”
~ St. Augustine
Our celebrants are contemplative, hope-filled women committed to the Word of God and the Holy Preaching.
They live with a passion for Truth and Justice following in the footsteps of Jesus Christ.
Their lives are a testimony to the Pillars of Dominican Life and Mission: Prayer. Community. Study. Service.
We remember with fondness the many Jubilarians who celebrate with us bathed in the glory of Eternal Life.
Let us celebrate the faithful service of these women.
