Loretto Magazine - Fall 2016

Loretto M A G A Z I N E Fall 2016

Volume 58, No. 2

Blossoms grace Loretto centers across America

rose iris orchid magnolia

Discover the power of planned giving A newly refurbished chapel at Loretto Academy, El Paso Meet Loretto’s remarkable 2016 Jubilarians

About this issue . . .

M

any questions come into the Loretto Development Office every year about how to set up a “planned giving” bequest to the Community. This manner of contributing a gift is quite simple, and moreover, very powerful. Thus, our main feature, “Discover the Power of Planned Giving,” contains detailed information and interesting anecdotes that demonstrate both the “how” and “why” of legacy giving, page 11. In future Loretto Magazine editions, you will find articles with additional in-depth information on different aspects of planned giving, such as understanding the tax advantages of a bequest to an organization. Be sure to watch for these.

An expanded News & Notes section gives you an inside look at the renovation and restoration of one of Loretto’s great spiritual treasures, St. Joseph Church on the Loretto Academy property, El Paso, Texas. The before-and-after photos tell the story, as does Sister Buffy Boesen, Loretto Academy president, who was interviewed for the piece, page 4. An enormous amount of work was completed in a short period of time -- just four months from January through April this year. The difference is plain to see and lovely to enjoy.

Finally, Loretto’s 2016 Jubilarians have unique and fascinating stories to tell, page 16. We hope you enjoy this Fall edition, and as always, your comments and feedback are welcome.

Contents Notes & News ...............................................................................4 Loretto Academy, El Paso, enjoys updated chapel................. 4 Loretto Community members/students garner honors............ 6 Contributing to Loretto through Planned Giving.......................... 11 2016 Loretto Jubilarians share wonderful stories ....................... 16 Remembrances ..........................................................................20 Memorials & Tributes of Honor ................................................... 21

Front Cover: Photos by Nicole Martinez

Back Cover: Renovated Chapel at Loretto Academy, El Paso, Texas. Photo by Alejandra Saldaña.

2 • Loretto Magazine

LORETTO COMMUNITY Sisters of Loretto • Co-members of Loretto

We work for justice and act for peace because the Gospel urges us.

Loretto Community members teach, nurse, care for the elderly, lobby, minister in hospitals, provide spiritual direction and counseling, resettle refugees, staff parishes, try to stop this country’s nuclear weapons buildup, work with the rural poor, and minister to handicapped, alcoholic and mentally ill adults. Our ministries are diverse.

The Loretto Community, founded in 1812 as the Sisters of Loretto, is a congregation of Catholic vowed Sisters and both lay and religious Co-members. Loretto Co-members are those who, by mutual commitment, belong to the Community through a sharing of spirit and values and participating in activities that further our mission.

For more information contact: Loretto Community Membership Staff 4000 S. Wadsworth Blvd.

Littleton, CO 80123-1308 Phone: 303-783-0450 Fax: 303-783-0611 Web: www.lorettocommunity.org Loretto Magazine is published three times a year by the Loretto Development Office: Development Director: Denise Ann Clifford SL Communications Director: Jean M. Schildz Data Systems Mgr./Event Coordinator: Kelly Marie Darby Editing, Layout and Production: Carolyn Dunbar Accountant/Administrative Assistant: Brenda Blankenship Special Development Projects: Lydia Peña SL

Advisory Panel: Denise Ann Clifford SL Carolyn Dunbar Jean M. Schildz Vicki Schwartz SL Mary Swain SL Editorial Office: Loretto Central Office 4000 S. Wadsworth Blvd.

Littleton, CO 80123-1308 303-783-0450, ext. 1718 Circulation Office: Loretto Staff Office 590 E. Lockwood Ave. Webster Groves, MO 63119 314-962-8112

Dear Loretto Friends,

T

he glories of autumn are upon us now ... in a unique fall sky that canopies a land full of trees showing their first tinge of fall color, in maturing crops that grace the land, and in a riot of colorful flowers at every turn.

Simultaneously, we anguish and pray through this difficult political season in the wake of the worst mass shooting in American history and more than a dozen other tragic attacks here and abroad. Loretto’s deep commitment to work for justice and act for peace is experienced among us even more keenly in this critical time. As stated in the Loretto Constitution, we “work for a future in which the poor and suffering, the hungry in body and spirit, will know God’s saving love present in them.”

We are timely with Loretto Magazine’s lead feature about exactly where and how Loretto “works for justice and acts for peace” in the form of its many ministries and missions across the world. The Loretto Development Office presents the story of how financial gifts make possible the many human gifts that assist the needy, the elderly, the desperate, the young and the oppressed. The Loretto Community and its host of volunteers and friends are accomplishing amazing work made possible by the generosity of our contributors. Many creative ways to give are available and are set forth in the story, page 12, including the extraordinary power of planned giving.

This edition begins with an expanded Notes & News section where the stories of Loretto organizations, affiliations and individuals who participate so closely in ministry are told. The 2016 Loretto Jubilarians are celebrated in this edition.

Our Diamond, Golden and Silver Jubilarians this year include two Sisters who have attained centenarian status!

May the riches of autumn renew us with peace, hope, and fidelity in our commitment to the Creator who blesses us so abundantly in this season.

Pearl McGivney SL President

Fall 2016 • 3

notes & news

Extensive renovation has brightened St. Joseph Church, El Paso Loretto Academy community rejoiced as chapel reopened for Loretto Founders’ Day

Photos by Alejandra Saldaña

By Carolyn Dunbar

S

ince 1928, a Spanish-style church has graced the Loretto campus in El Paso, Texas. St. Joseph Church is the spiritual heart of Loretto Academy, a kindergarten-through-12th-grade private Catholic school, one of three thriving academies owned and staffed by the Loretto Community.

The church underwent a major renovation after Christmas Eve Mass 2015 and reached completion in time for the April 25 Loretto Founders’ Day Mass. “For 88 years, we have had the profound honor and joy of being able to celebrate Mass in our glorious chapel. The first four months of 2016 saw the closing of the chapel as a long-awaited renovation finally came about. On Monday, April 25, the chapel officially opened to the public again,” wrote Katie Martinez, Loretto Academy’s advancement coordinator.

Buffy Boesen SL, Loretto Academy president, who initiated the ambitious project, said, “As far as we can tell, the last time [the chapel] was renovated was in the 1950s. Some of the interior was repainted in the 1970s.”

Why did the building need renovation?

“The paint was dingy,” said Boesen.

“Wires from the various technology we use in the chapel were laying all over the place. The microphone system was good, but the electrical system was outdated.

Also, there was a slow leak in the roof.

Paint was chipping off the cupola. And the pews were grungy — the hardwood needed sanding and varnishing.”

A Chapel Renovation Campaign began in 2012 with events and activities planned to raise the half-million dollars required for the full renovation. President Buffy, however, found it difficult to wait. “Every time I stepped foot in the chapel I was distracted by all the work that needed to be done. It was then I decided that we would start the renovation with or without all the funds,” she said, as reported by Katie Martinez in the June 2016 edition of Interchange, the Loretto Community newsletter.

Boesen also told Loretto Magazine, “I thought, wouldn’t it be nice if…. I knew I didn’t have all the money. I probably had $15,000, and still needed $30,000 just to

Loretto Academy President Buffy Boesen SL speaks with one of the celebrants at the April 25 Loretto Founders’ Day Mass in the newly renovated St. Joseph Church, El Paso.

notes & news

B E F O R E start the project. I contacted a painter who came out to see the building and develop a bid. When the painter called back, I said, ‘We have to have a price.’ He said, ‘Don’t worry about it.’”

In January, work began in earnest under the supervision of Ed and Jo Soto, graduates of Loretto Academy class of 1970, along with several other contractors.

In a short time, much was accomplished: • Leaky roof — repaired • Marble floors — polished • Chandeliers — cleaned, restored • Rafters — sanded, stained, redecorated • Original pews — sanded, stained • Sound and lighting systems — fully upgraded • New wiring — properly installed and hidden from view • Confessionals — remodeled

A F T E R • • •

Storage solutions — added Old Communion rail — removed Altar — extended toward pews

Without the Communion rail, the entire altar could be moved forward. Finally, the cupola and walls were freshly painted, significantly brightening and uplifting the look and feel of the sacred space.

And don’t forget the pipe organ! It was repaired, restored and expanded with the installation of 608 additional pipes. The sound fills every inch of the interior space, up to the gorgeously restored rafters.

At the Loretto Chapel Dedication Mass, homilist Father Ed RodenLucero reminded congregants of the ecclesiological history that shaped the design of the original chapel, and the religious changes since Vatican II that

now frame the current restoration. “So, the renovation of this chapel was necessary for both practical reasons and for reasons of ecclesiology,” he said. (Ecclesiology is a word used to describe how the Church understands its being and mission, according to Father Roden-Lucero.)

“New paint and new wiring were needed, but there was also the need to update the chapel according to the liturgical reforms reflecting the ecclesiology of the Second Vatican Council,” he said. “You will notice the Communion rail has been removed, the altar has been extended out so that it is closer to the assembly. The ambo, from which the Word is proclaimed and from which I speak, has been raised and made more prominent. The confessionals are now true reconciliation rooms, and Mr. Soto has agreed to be the first to try them out! If he’s late for the reception, you’ll know why!”

Fall 2016 • 5

notes & news Elisa Rodriguez SL recognized for her community social work with El Paso Interreligious Sponsoring Organization during IAF 40th anniversary

Alicia Franco, far left, stands next to Elisa Rodriguez SL. Alicia worked very hard with Elisa in starting the EPISO organization in Texas. At Center is Bishop Mark Seitz and other EPISO friends.

E

lisa Rodriguez SL was honored on the 40th anniversary of The Network of Texas IAF Organizations, April 30, in San Antonio. The Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF) had a rough start four decades ago, according to the El Paso Times editorial board, who wrote on April 29, “When the Industrial Areas Foundation first came to Texas four decades ago, the organization was met with derision and hostility in many quarters. That certainly was true with the creation of the El Paso Interreligious Sponsoring Organization (EPISO) in 1981. But today, IAF Texas groups — including EPISO and Border Interfaith in El Paso — are viewed as powerful voices on issues like economic development, education, health care and social justice.”

Sister Elisa is an El Paso native, educated at St. Joseph’s Academy by the Sisters of Loretto. She graduated from the Academy high school in 1954 and later joined Loretto. As a young nun, Sister Elisa taught elementary school at St. Patrick’s Cathedral School in El Paso. In the 1980s, the Loretto Community urged her to earn a license to serve as director of Nazareth Hall nursing home following Bernice Juen SL’s resignation. She has been active 6 • Loretto Magazine

in the field of health care in El Paso, serving on community groups and hospital boards. Today she is chaplain at the newer Nazareth Hall Care Center that stands on the Loretto property in El Paso.

Sister Elisa started EPISO 35 years ago with her friend Alicia Franco. EPISO was modeled after a San Antonio service group established seven years earlier, named Communities Organized as a Public Service (COPS). These groups are drawn from members of local church congregations, schools and residential neighborhoods. The purpose is to engage in works that will help the poor and lowincome families in the community to make their own lives better.

Bishop Mark Seitz of the Diocese of El Paso in a local news story two years ago said, “EPISO is not a work of the Church, but it is a community group that we believe we should cooperate with because they’re dealing with very important issues that affect the poorest of our people living in this region.”

EPISO and its collegial organization, Border Interfaith in El Paso, have accomplished many good things since

1981. IAF Texas affiliates, including EPISO, worked hard in the 1980s to pass a statewide bond issue and many other reforms to address shameful conditions in the colonias. These were unregulated subdivisions that had grown up around the state, each sheltering thousands of people with little or no water nor any sewage service.

According to the El Paso Times editorial, EPISO and Border Interfaith also have been key players in the city’s “most effective workforce training program, Project ARRIBA.” The program has helped lift more than 1,200 families from poverty to earning living wages and boosting the El Paso economy by $710 million in income. Among many other community projects, EPISO and Border Interfaith also worked with University Medical Center to expand its clinics in El Paso.

Well-deserved congratulations go to Sister Elisa for her honor and recognition at the IAF 40th anniversary celebration and for her tireless work on behalf of the disadvantaged people in northwestern Texas.

notes & news

Helen Santamaria inducted into El Paso Women’s Hall of Fame

H

elen Santamaria SL was among nine women in El Paso, Texas, who were inducted into the El Paso Womens’ Hall of Fame, April 23, under the auspices of The El Paso Commission for Women.

Sister Helen earned her place among the city’s top “movers and shakers” for civic leadership in recognition of her lifelong commitment to improving the lives of those who are in need. Others inductees were honored in the area of the arts, education, military, professionalism, public service, science and health care, sports and athletics, and volunteerism.

According to the Hall of Fame program, the purpose of the El Paso Commission for Women is to pursue a positive course of action for achieving equal rights and responsibilities for women. The Commission recognizes, understands and respects the cultural and ethnic diversity of women in the El Paso community and to serve as a model for plurality and inclusiveness. The organization was formed in 1984.

From left: Triana Olivas, Helen Santamaria, Josefina Soto.

Sister Helen’s work has addressed the urgent needs of the poorest of the poor.

These excerpts from one of the nomination letters tell her story: “Since her teens Helen Santamaria has dedicated her life as a member of the Loretto Community to her mission of ‘working for justice and acting for peace’ through education, addressing border issues and responding to the needs of the homeless in El Paso. Helen worked as director of development and president of Loretto Academy from 1989 to 1995.

There she encouraged students to service, beginning with Annunciation House run

by Ruben Garcia. Helen met the challenge of changing the resistance of many Latino students to see themselves as leaders.

Many serve the El Paso community today as leaders in positions of law, justice and business.

“Her mission then led her to found Villa Maria, where more than 400 women who found themselves in desperate circumstances could transition into mainstream, wholesome lives. Villa Maria, a beautiful, safe, supportive and spiritual community, has made healing possible.

Volunteers and workers have marked the space with love and compassion for those less fortunate. Helen is a member of the Villa Maria board of directors.

“From 1996 to 2003 Helen broke ground serving El Paso and its residents.

Initiatives to education the community on preventive health care, butter nutrition programs and improved access to information were furthered on the El Paso Del Norte Health Foundation Board.

“Helen volunteers at the Opportunity Center for the homeless and will complete certification in spiritual direction. She then will continue to guide and comfort the poor and homeless. She sits on the sacred Heart Parish Finance Council, serves as a sacristan for the Loretto Academy Chapel, and recently was one of 10 representatives from the USC Jesuit Province delegation to the Jesuit Gathering for Social and International Ministries in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.”

Helen Santamaria SL, first row far left, poses with eight other women chosen for the El Paso Womens’ Hall of Fame, 2016.

Fall 2016 • 7

notes & news

Brittany Head wins Social Justice Award

B

rittany Head — a senior at Holy Family High School, Broomfield, Colo. — won the 2016 Mary Luke Tobin SL Social Justice Award. She has received a scholarship grant toward her tuition at Butler University, Indianapolis, during the academic year 2016-2017.

Applicants for the award must be in their senior year at Holy Family and planning to attend college. Head was chosen from several applicants because she “has demonstrated concern and her desire to work for social justice and peace in the world,” said Denise Ann Clifford SL, a member of the award committee.

As part of her application, Head wrote, “I would define social justice as the incorporation of the highest form of law — the teachings of Christ — into our society. Social justice involves recognizing the innate dignity of every human and treating every individual according to their dignity. Social justice shapes how I view and treat other individuals.”

Head plans to focus on peace and conflict studies, international business and Spanish. She has an interest in theology

and would like to take courses in Catholic theology and/or world religions.

The award is named in honor of Mary Luke Tobin SL (1908-2006), a Denver native, past president of the Sisters of Loretto, president of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, and the only American woman invited to be an observer at the Second Vatican Council in Rome during the 1960s. Throughout her life, Sister Mary Luke spoke out against injustice, the plight of the poor and disadvantaged, challenging religious, national and world leaders to examine policies and practices that discriminated against those marginalized by society.

Loretto Heights College faculty and alumnae receive awards

This is the fifth year the Mary Luke Tobin SL Social Justice Award has been granted.

It was initiated by Ken Fitch, a former teacher at Holy Family and friend of the late Sister Mary Luke. Fitch and school administrators began the award in 2012 in conjunction with the 200th anniversary of Loretto’s foundation. From the beginning the Social Justice Award has engaged members of the Loretto Community on the selection committee.

Holy Family was founded and staffed by the Sisters of Loretto for many years in

Award winner Brittany Head, center, is flanked by her parents. Loretto Vice President Marlene Spero SL, far left, and Loretto Development Director Denise Ann Clifford SL.

8 • Loretto Magazine

northwest Denver. The school has since moved into a new facility in Broomfield, Colo., north of Denver, and retains its close association with Loretto.

Mary Louise Buetner SL.

T

he Spirit of Loretto Committee, founded to keep the spirit of Loretto Heights College (LHC) alive at Regis University, Denver, held its traditional summer alumnae reunion July 16, honoring Mary Louise Buetner SL, PhD, posthumously with the Lumen Christi Outstanding Faculty Award. This award is given to exceptional and beloved members of the LHC faculty and staff.

“The Spirit of Loretto Awards are given annually to outstanding alumni, former faculty and staff of Loretto Heights in recognition of personal achievement, substantial contribution of service to others and a commitment to the promotion of social justice consistent with the traditions and mission of the Sisters of Loretto,” explained Jeannie Lambert Courchene, LHC Class of 1968, co-chair of the Spirit of Loretto Committee.

notes & news

Distinguished Alumna Awards were also given to Mary Nelle Gage SL, LHC Class of 1966, and Lucy Roucis, LHC Class of 1981.

Mary Louise Buetner SL, PhD Lumen Christi Award According to the 2016 Loretto Heights College Reunion program, Sister Mary Louise received her bachelor’s degree in English and music at Webster College, Webster Groves, Mo., in 1931. She earned her master’s degree in English in 1933 and later a doctorate in English and philosophy from St. Louis University. She taught at Loretto Heights and was hailed as one of the nation’s foremost Shakespearian scholars by the Rocky Mountain News. In 1967 she was invited to teach at Al-Hikma University in Baghdad, Iraq, and later at Santa Clara University in California.

She had many other achievements in business and government in Colorado and nationally. She died in Bardstown, Ky., in 1987.

Dennis Gallagher, Irish American, former Denver Auditor for 12 years and professor emeritus at Regis University, was taught

by Sister Mary Louise. He attended the LHC summer reunion and had this to say

about his former teacher. “Every time we met we would recite Sonnet 116, my favorite sonnet.

Father Robert Boyle SL at Regis also encouraged us to memorize this wonderful sonnet and used it as a key to decide if characters in Shakespeare’s plays really loved.

‘Love is not love which alters when it alteration finds.’

“We all marveled at Sister Mary Louise’s widow’s peak peeking out from under her white starched head cap under her black veil.

I’ve been thinking of her and Father Boyle this year of Shakespeare’s 400th anniversary. A teacher shares From left: Karen Cox, Mary Nelle Gage SL, his or her love of a subject with Bernadette Seick students. Mary Louise did that for joining the Loretto Community and all of us with Shakespeare.” accepting teaching assignments in Denver, Mary Nelle directed the speech and Mary Nelle Gage SL drama program at Bishop Machebeuf Distinguished Alumna Award High School, Denver, for four years. She As published in the Loretto Heights pursued graduate studies in theatre at the College Reunion program, Sister Mary Nelle studied speech and drama at Loretto University of Colorado, Boulder, and the University of Birmingham in StratfordHeights College where she graduated as Upon-Avon, England. top scholar and member of the Catholic College Women’s Honor Society. After

From left: Tovi Snyder, Kim Louie, Mary Nelle Gage SL.

In 1973, she joined Susan Carol McDonald SL, in Saigon, Vietnam, to care for abandoned, handicapped and malnourished orphans. Thus began a 20-year career in refugee resettlement on behalf of several Christian voluntary agencies. Through the years, she has continued her association with Vietnamese adoptees, organizing reunions for adoptees and their families. She has also escorted groups of adoptees back to Vietnam on a “Motherland Tour,” which enabled those who were adopted and relocated as young children to return as adults to see the land of their birth.

As she accepted the Distinguished Alumna Award, Sister Mary Nelle said, “I accept this award as a representative of each of you, my golden classmates, who have for these past 50 years lived out the motto under which we entered Loretto Heights

Fall 2016 • 9

notes & news

in 1962. We then were sent out into our world under that banner, ‘Fides, Mores, Et Cultura,’ to be women of faith in God, citizens of our community, seekers of truth and beauty. For me, being in the right place at the right time, nurtured in a loving and accepting family, being in the company of wise, courageous and generous companions — both inside and outside Loretto — have enabled me to say, like you, ‘Here I am, Lord, I come to do your will.’”

Lucy Roucis, LHC Class of 1981 Distinguished Alumna Award The Loretto Heights College Reunion program says that from the very young age of 2, Lucy Roucis always knew she wanted to be an actress. Lucy acted in school productions throughout her primary

and secondary education. At Loretto Heights College she further developed her skills in singing, dancing and acting. She graduated in 1981 Magna Cum Laude and moved to Hollywood, where she got her break as an actress.

At the age of 27, however, Lucy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and thyroid cancer. This did not stop her from pursuing her dream of acting. She returned home to Colorado to the love and support of her family, and to establish PHAMILY, the Physically Handicapped Actors & Music Artists League. Through the League, Lucy has had the opportunity to play dream roles such as Lola in “Damn Yankees” and Winifred in “Once Upon a Mattress,” in addition to such character roles as Mother in “Barefoot in the Park” or Mrs. Kendal in “The Elephant Man.”

Lucy Roucis at podium, Kam Monfort at right.

Her career highlight came in the 2010 Hollywood production of “Love and Other Drugs,” a film about a young woman diagnosed with Parkinson’s starring Anne Hathaway and Jake Gyllenhaal.

Lydia Peña SL inducted into Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame Sister Lydia was honored for her lifelong work as an educator, author, artist, art historian, community leader and superb fundraiser.

In an interview for the CWHF, Lydia said, “I came to Colorado at 16 years ‘young’ as a freshman at Loretto Heights College. Colorado has been a place of professional and personal growth for me. I 2016 Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame Inductees. From started teaching in 1958, and I taught at St. Mary’s Academy, left: Judith B. Wagner, Judge Sandra I. Rothenberg, then at Loretto Heights Arlene Vigil Kramer, Lydia M. Peña, Anna Jo Haynes, Shari F. Shink. Photo Credit: Photo by Jay Weiss College, then Regis University, Denver, a total of 49 years in education. And I learned a whole lot from ydia M. Peña SL, PhD, was formally my colleagues, from my students. I was inducted into the Colorado Women’s telling one of my students recently that Hall of Fame (CWHF) in a Denver lots of people have opened doors for me. ceremony March 16. She was one of And she said, ‘Yes, Lydia, and you walked 10 women so honored that evening. right through!’ So I thank all those who She is pictured with six contemporary opened doors for me.” inductees. Historic inductees recognized

L

posthumously were Anne Evans, Minnie Harding, Laura Ann Hershey and Elizabeth Pellet.

10 • Loretto Magazine

“My mother was a woman who taught me a lot about purpose and persistence. And she would say often, ‘If you’re going to do

something, do it to the very best of your ability.’ And that stuck! I’ve tried to do that.

“Another mentor was Sister Mary Luke Tobin, and she was on the Sisters of Loretto Council in Kentucky. When I was leaving the novitiate, I went in to say goodbye. Her last words to me were, ‘You will be useful.’ Well, a 23-year-old woman wanted to hear, ‘You will be successful; you will do well.’ She said, ‘You will be useful.’ I’ve pondered that word, and the dictionary defines that word as ‘doing for others, seeing the value and the benefit that is there for others.’

“So ‘useful’ has become a very important word in my life. Through being useful, I have been inducted into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame, something I never dreamed of, something I never expected.

Since this has happened, since the reality has sunk in, I have done a lot of reflecting.

And what I learned is that I have had many people in my life. I’ve never done anything alone. Never. There have always been all those people opening doors for me, and I walked through.”

Discover the

POWER

of planned giving

A challenging, rewarding ministry

By Denise Ann Clifford SL Loretto Development Director

A

dvancement or development work, commonly called “fundraising,” is a ministry full of challenge. Although it is the responsibility of the Community to engage in the task of setting mission goals, the Development Office designs the plan and explores the sources of funding to support Loretto mission goals. The major areas addressed are the retirement needs of the Sisters, funding for mission work and projects, operational costs, emergency and major maintenance expenses.

In September, I began my 21st year in this Loretto ministry! I remember how difficult it was for me to leave education and undertake a position totally foreign to me.

How could I measure up to my Loretto predecessors Sisters Frances de Chantal McLeese, Madeleine Willard and Margaret Ann Hummel? I do not view myself as a “heavy-handed” fundraiser, but I love Loretto, and this ministry has allowed me to share Loretto’s story and dreams with a broad and diverse audience.

Through the years, I have had the privilege to reconnect and stay in touch with countless Loretto relatives, friends, associates, alumnae/i who appreciate how Loretto has enriched their lives.

It may surprise you that most of our donors are not rich by society’s standards, but their combined giving reaps bountiful and beautiful results. They share our vision and values and are responsive to our needs. What a rewarding ministry!

Editor’s Note: As the summer months have passed and the fall season is upon us, our thoughts at the Loretto Development Office turn to the Annual Appeal, Loretto’s key fundraising drive. Preparations for the 2016 campaign have been underway since late spring, and now they’re being readied for the fall roll-out. It’s an appropriate time to thank our Loretto Magazine readers — who are current donors to the Loretto Community — for their generous gifts of time, talent and treasure.

Your contributions directly support the retired Sisters of Loretto and the many Loretto ministries serving the disadvantaged, the poor, the elderly and needy across America and the world. Loretto Constitutions, Article 36, says, “We work for justice and act for peace because the gospel urges us.” In that spirit the Loretto Community works to address climate change, reduce military spending and to advocate for fair immigration policies.

Many options are available to those who want to support the Loretto Community. One of the most powerful and flexible ways to do this is through planned giving. To discover more about this concept, we offer an interview with Loretto’s Development Director Denise Ann Clifford SL, and Kim Klein CoL, author, lecturer, fundraising/development consultant, and a Loretto Co-member since 1991. continued on p. 12

Fall 2016 • 11

Gifting Loretto: Desig

A comparison of financial gifts receive

Sisters of Loretto Retirement Fund

General Fund (Where Funds are Most Needed) Denise Ann Clifford SL

Co-member Pledges

Q: The 2015 Development Office Annual Report of Financial Gifts has been published recently. How did Loretto do last year?

A: Clifford — I’m delighted to report that gifts in 2015 exceeded 2014 levels by nearly $2.14 million, totaling $3,261,164 last year. That’s an overall 34.5 percent increase from 2014. We can account for this dramatic upswing by looking at selected funding sources showing significant increases: The Loretto Pakistan Endowment, which funds the Community’s mission in that country, moved from $141,683 in 2014 contributions to $330,146 in 2015; a jump of 43 percent.

The Loretto Hunger Fund received $12,290 in 2014, which increased to $18,312 in 2015, a 67 percent increase, or $6,022.

Contributions for maintenance and improvement of Loretto facilities increased by 23 percent from $11,005 in 2014 to a total of $47,596 in 2015.

Gifts of stock that totaled $93,412 in 2014 increased to $192,460, a gain of 48.5 percent.

In 2014 we received $153,367 in estate gifts. Last year Loretto received estate gifts totaling $2,035,190, a 1,327 percent increase.

Q: Did all funding categories increase between 2014 and 2015?

A: Clifford — No. contributions to individual member ministries remained the same, as did the Memorial Gifts and Tributes of Honor. The Sisters of Loretto Retirement Fund,

12 • Loretto Magazine

Blessed Trinity Leadership Academy (Ghana, West A Estate Gifts Gifts of Stock Loretto Heritage Center: Achives & Museum Loretto Facilities Loretto Hunger Fund Memorials/Gifts of Honor Missions/Ministries: General Individual Member Ministries Pakistan Endowment Loretto Mission in Pakistan Temporarily Restricted Gifts

TOTAL GIVING Figure 1.

gnations and Distribution

ed in the calendar years 2014 and 2015

$

2014

2015

186,825

$ 158,915

168,309 152,764 Kim Klein CoL

117,279

Africa) 28,683

104,043 15,553

153,367

2,035,190

93,412

192,460

3,538

8,817

11,005

47,596

12,290

18,312

60,292

59,175

3,968

1,744

55,580

56,968

141,683

330,146

28,598

26,975

58,503

52,506

$ 1,123,332

$ 3,261,164

General Fund, Co-member Pledges and Temporarily Restricted Funds experienced a decrease. (See Figure 1.)

Q: Gifts of stock and estate gifts showed the largest increases. How does this type of giving work?

A: Clifford — There are various ways to donate to Loretto.

Planned giving — gifts or bequests in one’s will — is one way.

Another is a tax-free charitable gift from an IRA or Roth account.

As of 2016, this is now a permanent part of U.S. tax legislation for giving. If you are 70.5 years old or older, you have to take a withdrawal from your IRA, but now you can donate up to $100,000 to an organization of your choice every year without paying income tax on that withdrawal.

Other ways to contribute are through trusts, estates, monetary gifts, in-kind gifts or service, contributions in memory of loved ones who have passed away, tributes of honor for living friends and loved ones given to mark significant “life events,” such as birthdays, Jubilees, weddings, graduations.

If you own a life-insurance policy, you can designate Loretto as a beneficiary. Upon your death, Loretto would receive all or part of the value of the policy as you have directed. And, you may be able to distribute the accumulated value while you’re living.

For example, Loretto Co-member Carol Colligan established such a plan to benefit students at her alma mater, Webster University, Webster Groves, Mo. This spring, Webster’s director of gift planning wrote, “Carol determined to create a permanent funding source that would allow future students to participate in living history projects. She held a life insurance policy that named Webster as the beneficiary. As it had accumulated a sizable cash value, Carol wondered if it might be used to accelerate student aid during her lifetime. After consulting with her advisers, she

Fall 2016 • 13

Did you know that . . .

. . . Jeannine Swift CoL, the first Loretto Co-member, left $300,000 to Loretto upon her death in 2015? She married fellow economist Don Solar in the 1970s and helped parent his two daughters. They lived in Long Island for 44 years. During that time Jeannine was a professor of economics and geography at Hofstra University in New York, and also served as an administrator there.

Did you know that . . . . . . Boston native Benjamin Franklin, member of the Continental Congress and Constitutional Convention, a drafter and signatory to the Declaration of Independence and United States Constitution, made the very first bequest in this country? He was 84 years old when he died in 1790, and left $2,000 in his will to the cities of Boston and Philadelphia. He directed the money not be distributed until 200 years after his death.

In 1990, his original bequest was worth $6.5 million!

“If you can imagine, in 1790 the United States of America was just 15 years old,” said Development Consultant Kim Klein CoL. “Neither Benjamin Franklin nor anyone he knew would be alive to see the bequest opened in 1990. This act represented Franklin’s real faith that the young nation would continue and grow. And, knowing that his bequest would go through several generations of money managers, he still put his faith in the future of his new country.”

14 • Loretto Magazine

liquidated the policy to immediately establish The Carol Colligan Living History Travel Fund.”

A: Klein — Contingent Beneficiary designation as a legacy gift is also an easy way to give. A person buys an insurance policy to benefit a spouse (first beneficiary), but there is the option to have another beneficiary if the primary one pre-deceases you. Policy owners can fill in the second line (contingency beneficiary). This is also true for pensions. Use the power of your contingency beneficiary. Do it now. Every five years or ten years review your designation. You can change it at any time.

Q: Can you give more detail about planned giving, or legacy giving?

A: Klein — Planned giving — or legacy giving — poses

a question to a donor: What is most important to you in your lifetime, and to what extent do you want to make sure that your values continue after your death? Legacy giving offers you some choices about how to ensure that what you cared about in your life will continue. To me it’s amazing! In this country you have the right to say what is going to happen to your possessions after you die. You have the right to say it, and your wishes have to be honored after you’ve gone. It’s an interesting fact that only four out of 10 people make a will or some kind of estate plan.

Q: This is starting to sound complicated. Is it difficult to do?

A: Klein — It’s very simple to make a bequest. People think

they have to go to a lawyer. Or they rationalize and say, “I’m not going to die tomorrow, so I’ll put it off.” You can go to a lawyer, or you can simply write an amendment to your will, known as a codicil, up until the day you die, if you’re of sound mind. The most common form of legacy giving is a bequest. Just write on a piece of paper, “I give and bequeath (a specific thing or percent of estate, money, stock, etc.) to the Sisters of Loretto. Date the

She would not have been able to afford a contribution of that size during her lifetime, but her husband preceded her in death by just a few months, and the children were grown and living their own lives. The bequest to Loretto in Jeannine’s last will and testament became part of the distribution of her estate, and Loretto’s portion had grown to $300,000!

paper, sign your name and put that in with your will. Tell your friends or family about it. If you don’t have a will, then create one and make the organization of your choice one of your heirs.

Q: Why should someone consider making a planned gift to Loretto?

A: Klein — The main reason people make gifts to

organizations is they care about something. Why give to Loretto, a 215-year-old organization? Because you know the organization is solid and will continue to do good work because it has a proven history of that. Loretto moves with the times, but we are still engaged in the work of peace and justice. We are still acting as “friends of Mary at the foot of the cross,” as was the Sisters of Loretto’s original charter. Whatever the call is for the Loretto Community in 50 years, we don’t know . . . but we know Loretto people will still be doing good work in the spirit of peace and justice.

A: Clifford — A planned gift is a powerful instrument.

According to The Sharpe Group, which publishes materials to help development directors communicate with their donor base about all aspects of charitable giving, you have many options. You can make a charitable gift from what remains after you have first provided for your own economic security and that of your loved ones. This can be done through your will, a revocable living trust, a beneficiary designation of life insurance or retirement plan proceeds, a gift of property … many things.

Through a bequest, you can designate a certain dollar amount to be transferred to one or more charities. You can designate the value of a specific asset — such as real estate, artwork, jewelry or other valuable items — as a charitable gift. You can also allocate a percentage of your overall estate for charitable purposes.

Q: Our readers may have questions about planned giving. How can they find answers?

The original Nazareth Hall nursing facility to the left of the chapel on the Loretto campus, El Paso, Texas.

Did you know that . . .

. . . The Loretto Development Department received two astonishing surprises in 2015? Rita Don, M.D., was an El Paso, Texas, native educated by the Sisters of Loretto from elementary through high school at Loretto Academy. She became a medical doctor and later the attending physician to the Nazareth Hall nursing facility on the Loretto property in El Paso. “When Rita died, we were informed we were the beneficiaries of her estate,” said Loretto Development Director Denise Ann Clifford SL. Rita’s estate was worth more than $1 million.”

. . . In April 2015 Sister Denise Ann received a letter from an attorney bringing an unexpected gift of more than $917,000 from former Sister of Loretto Roberta Harding.

She had designated the gift to the Loretto Retirement Fund. “This came out of the blue, and it was a great blessing,” said Sister Denise Ann.

A: Clifford — The quickest way to find answers and assistance is to call me directly at the Loretto Development Department (303-783-0450, ext. 1724) or e-mail deniseann@ lorettocommunity.org. Also, look for more articles on planned giving in upcoming editions of Loretto Magazine.

NOTE: This article is not intended as financial advice.

You should consult your own adviser about what best suits your situation.

Fall 2016 • 15

25

50

th

th

Silver

Golden

75

80

th

th

Diamond

Pearl

85

th

Emerald

Eight Loretto Community members enjoy Jubilee in 2016

Centenarian Sister Rosalie Marie celebrated her 101st birthday this year!

85

th

Rosalie Marie Phillips SL 85th ‘Emerald’ Jubilarian

By Agnes Ann Schum SL

These days I am busy sewing (usually something creative for someone else), reading magazines and the World Book Encyclopedia, doing word jumble puzzles, praying, writing letters and smiling at people since I don’t do much visiting. I figure I can at least smile at the people I see.

I grew up in what we called a boarding school, a place for children whose parents could not take care of them. My mother died when I was young, and my father couldn’t take care of all of us. The Good Shepherd Sisters were good to us. Next to the property of the Good Shepherd’s School was St. Ann’s School, Normandy, Mo., and that is where I attended grades 6, 7 and 8.

It was there I met the Sisters of Loretto. For a long time I did not want to become a Sister, even when others suggested it to me. I loved the movies because they put a flair into clothes, and that appealed to me since I do like nice clothes. At about age 11 or 12, I gave in and came to Loretto after completing the 8th grade.

Loretto has been important to me because this is my family.

My birth family was too poor to come to visit, so I did not have much company. Loretto is my place to be ... where God wanted me to be. I’m not sure I had that deep spirituality, but knowledge seeped in. I have become more conscious of the spiritual as God is with us in a caring way. Loretto opened the spiritual door. Family depends on each other, and we have a responsibility to each other. I am also careful of how I use things as part of my vow of poverty.

16 • Loretto Magazine

Centenarian Sister Angelus turned 100 years old this year!

80

th

Angelus Caron SL

80th ‘Pearl’ Jubilarian

By LeAnn Detherage

I just celebrated my 100th birthday at the Loretto Motherhouse. I do my best to stay active and work five days a week (only about six hours a day) with Sister Anndavid Naeger in the sewing loft. We keep the Sisters’ clothes mended and looking nice. I also never forget prayer, and four to five days a week, I attend our Centering Prayer Circle. On Saturday mornings I help with cleaning the courtyard, raking up leaves and look forward to the fresh air and exercise. Sister Mary Swain has to pick those leaves up because I really can’t do that much anymore. I think that is about it.

I came to know the Sisters of Loretto when I was young and living in Arvada, Colo. There was a mission parish, and the Sisters would come on Sundays to teach after Mass. In the summer, they would volunteer for two weeks, so we had time to get acquainted with them, and it was something about those women that inspired me. After that, I felt like it was my calling, God wanted me to do the work, and I gladly accepted that call.

Loretto is meaningful to me because it’s the life I know. I still believe our Communities are solid, and I’ve felt a true bond and connection with the Sisters of Loretto. Loretto allowed me to grow and realize there was more to life than just the social aspect, so much more. It’s real. There is something “real” about the religious life, and I can say I have tried to live the spirit of Loretto and be of service and love others.

Wiseman

Driscoll

75

th

Virginia Ann (V.A.) Driscoll SL 75th ‘Diamond’ Jubilarian

By Anthony Mary Sartorius SL

I’m enjoying life! Since my eyesight isn’t very good, people read to me. My Diamond Jubilee was a great celebration, meeting people I haven’t seen in years … and not having to do a bit of the work!

I went to Loretto Academy in El Paso, one of the first students at the school, and continued my education with a scholarship to Webster College. I entered the Sisters of Loretto after graduating.

I just wanted to be a Sister of Loretto, and that was it. My family accompanied me for my visit with Mother Edwarda, and my father told her that if I caused any trouble to please notify him.

My life as a Sister seems normal since my first days as a student in their classrooms. I thank God every day that I am still a Sister of Loretto.

Virginia Ann, or “V.A.” as she is widely known, was born in Toledo, Ohio, and entered the Sisters of Loretto in 1940, the same year she earned her bachelor’s degree in English from Webster College, Webster Groves, Mo. In 1952 she received her master’s degree in Spanish from Western Reserve University (now Case Western) in Cleveland. V.A. has taught in parochial schools, serving as principal, assistant principal and secretary from 1943 through 1993 in New Mexico, California, Missouri, and 18 years in El Paso, Texas. She has lived at the Motherhouse since 1993 and in the Infirmary since 2004. She loves listening to audiobooks and ministering through “prayer and presence” with a smile.

75

th

Theresa Louise Wiseman SL 75th ‘Diamond’ Jubilarian

By Jean Schildz and Carolyn Dunbar

Sister Theresa Louise has been an abiding presence at Loretto Motherhouse, Nerinx, Ky., since 1993, where she remains active driving Motherhouse residents to medical appointments, shopping and visiting with family. The joy of her Loretto Diamond Jubilee, however, has been clouded by the passing of her two natural sisters this year. Elizabeth Ann Engle, who died in Floyd Knobbs, Ind., June 14, and Bernardine Wiseman SL, who died at the Motherhouse July 15. “I lost both sisters in the space of one month,” Theresa Louise said.

Sister Theresa Louise is a native Kentuckian from Hodgenville.

She entered the Sisters of Loretto in 1941, making final vows in 1946. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education, with a philosophy minor in 1954 from Webster College in Webster Groves, Mo. From 1943 through 1986, she enjoyed teaching primary grades in parochial schools in Missouri, Illinois and Kentucky. In fact, in a story by Cecily Jones SL in the June 2016 edition of Interchange, the Loretto Community newsletter, Theresa Louise “talked about her love for teaching the little ones in the primary grades” and how the children in turn loved her.

Of the seven children born to her parents, Bernard and Christine Wiseman, Theresa and Bernardine were the only Sisters of Loretto, and they have been very close. They shared a love of animals, and in recent years made daily trips to the Motherhouse barn to care for the cats and kittens there. They had two small white dogs who accompanied them on their visits to patients in the Infirmary.

Fall 2016 • 17

For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end.

50

th

— Hebrews 3:14

Susan Charmley SL

50th ‘Golden’ Jubilarian

By Sue Charmley

I’m home at last, home to the soft green shades and hues of our Kentucky Motherhouse after teaching in the Archdiocese of Santa Fe since the 1970s. Although I retired from the classroom in 2010, Carolyn Ann Wheat SL and I remained in Albuquerque living near our colleagues and volunteering for Meals on Wheels.

Presently, I help drive our senior Sisters to their doctor appointments and other errands here in Marion County. In addition, I’m a member of the newly launched beekeeping team at our Motherhouse. I also help Bea Klebba SL with the St. Joe’s Garden, an enclosed area of patio space and a walking loop abundant with a variety of flowers and trees. The patio’s bird house is currently occupied by a family of wrens. A thistle seed feeder attracts gold finches, and during the winter the cardinals, titmice, chickadees and nuthatches are fed, too. The St. Joe’s residents enjoy the birds year-round. I’ve also had time to play my guitar at sing-a-longs in the dayroom of St. Joe’s wing in the Infirmary. I’m looking forward to trout fishing when the days are cooler.

Gabriel Mason SL was the first Sister of Loretto I ever met. It was a friendly chance meeting on the campus of Loretto Heights College, Denver, when my mom and I were touring my future home. After graduating from Edgewood High School in Madison, Wisc., I had informed my parents that I wanted to go to college “out West.” Dad said, “Fine,” but added, “not past the Continental Divide.” That’s how I came to Loretto Heights, situated near the foothills of the Rockies. What a dynamic and engaging faculty of women! My first home away from home became the love of my life, and continues to the present day.

As I reflect back on the people and events spanning 50 years, one central truth remains clear and steady for me: the basis of a meaningful life is relationships. Our lives are shared through thick and thin. Whether it is a steep and rocky section of a trail, the grief of attending a student’s funeral, the glow of a moonrise, the glory of a sunset, the joy of family reunions and Loretto Assemblies, the slowing down of my dear friend and mentor, or the warm embraces of “welcome home” from my Kentucky Sisters — life boils down to relationships in the end. Now, I’m back home to accompany my Sisters on that trail we call life.

18 • Loretto Magazine

Ego

Charmley

50

th

Marie Ego SL

50th ‘Golden’ Jubilarian

By Marie Ego

In my semi-retirement I have been nicely busy. Four days a month I work for the pastoral care team in the Motherhouse Infirmary visiting residents and listening to their stories. Then the list is varied: driving, finishing my new poetry book (ask if you want a copy), teaching a very occasional class at a nearby college, taking time for quiet meditation and enjoying life at the Motherhouse.

I first met a Loretto Sister when I was taking courses at Syracuse University for a master’s degree in special education. A couple of years before that I had applied to a contemplative community and was refused because I was too active. They said it was the skis on my car when I stopped by there to chat!

Sister Dorothy (Mary Ann Hurley) and I were in the same evening and night classes, so I gave her a ride to and from school.

She introduced me to several other Sisters of Loretto starting with Marie Catherine Pondorf, who was about three hours away studying at Cornell University. We shared several picnics together and lots of laughs. After meeting about five Loretto Sisters I knew I should apply, as they were varied and full of life. So, I finished my master’s degree and drove to Denver to begin life in Loretto.

When I entered Loretto I was looking for a way to know God. This had been my search since I could remember, and in the next 50 years, I found God was always there, giving life to people, animals, the planet and the cosmos. Wherever I went, God was there. I have enjoyed teaching in many places and situations: with children in Havern School in Denver, with college and university students, with the elderly in a mental health center, and in Africa. I enjoyed every work that I did, and the best was always the situation in which I was currently involved.

25

th

Kim Klein CoL

25th ‘Silver’ Jubilarian

By Kim Klein

These days I divide my time among three related kinds of work: I am a fundraising consultant, and I own a firm with my partner, Stephanie Roth, called (with not much originality), Klein and Roth Consulting. I help organizations build a broad base of individual donors and have become fairly well known in the field, which segues to the second kind of work I do, which is writing about fundraising and nonprofits in general. I just published a seventh edition of my book, “Fundraising for Social Change,” and I also recently co-wrote a report called “Fundraising Bright Spots.” I have a monthly column called “Dear Kim” where people write to me with fundraising concerns. And I am a regular contributor to a number of blogs and periodicals. My final kind of work is teaching. I teach a class or two (depending on the semester) at the School of Social Welfare at UC Berkeley.

I met Sister Vicki Quatmann in 1984 through her work at Save Our Cumberland Mountains (where I later met Maureen O’Connell.) In 1986 I decided I wanted to work and live in Appalachia for awhile, so I moved from California to Knoxville, Tenn., and became the executive director of the Appalachian Community Fund, which Vicki had helped establish. Vicki also was the chair of the board for most of the years I worked there. She brought me to the Loretto Motherhouse Labor Day Weekend, 1986, and I met so many extraordinary people. I knew that weekend that I wanted to be part of this Community in some way, and in 1991, I officially became a Co-member.

It would be hard to name all the ways that Loretto has been meaningful to me. Loretto has been my spiritual community for all these years, as well as a place for some of my activism.

Above all, though, it has been the place where I met and maintain many of my most special friendships. I have learned so much about hospitality and generosity, how to “disagree without being disagreeable,” and deep commitment to social justice. Truly, to the extent that I am a good human being today, I owe to the Loretto Community.

25

th

Connie Newton CoL

25th ‘Silver’ Jubilarian

By Connie Newton

Deep breathing in tropical air is an unusual gift to someone born in Peoria.

When I first visited Guatemala in 1963, I fell in love with every flower, every leaf and the people living in the midst of them.

Between 1963 and when I moved here last year, I’ve worked in micro-credit, education, and human rights … with time to breathe deeply of Guatemala’s beauty, as well as its brokenness, especially of Mother Earth and the Mayan culture. Alongside the post-card-perfect beauty of orchids and volcanoes, magnificent textiles and luscious avocados, it doesn’t take long to bump into Guatemala’s less visible inequalities and injustices.

Because many Lorettos have come to Guatemala to “work for justice and act for peace,” they have both inspired and opened ways for me to do the same. So how do we bring the good of justice and peace? Faith, yes. Community, yes. Then comes “action and reflection.” Thank you Loretto Earth Network, Loretto Womens’ Network, Latin America/Caribbean Committee, Guatemala Sister Community Committee, and Assemblies.

Thank you Mary Luke, Rose Annette, Rodie, Pat McCormick, Elaine Prevalett, Cathy Mueller, Maureen McCormack, Loretto Community Group 10, and a host of others for teaching and walking with me. I’m still learning about doing the good that makes justice and peace more alive in and around me. I’m still learning about action and reflection. My garden is a colorful school for reflection. Each morning I harvest the hibiscus that blossom for only one day. Their burst of beauty is born and then dies to make room for another to flower mañana.

My current effort to “do good” in a culture not my own was to write a book intended to provoke others to reflect on “how to do good better.” My friend, colleague and co-author, Fran Early, and I conducted more than 400 interviews with volunteers, donors, nonprofits and the intended beneficiaries of their good will in Guatemala. It took us seven years to turn their words, experience and realities into “Doing Good . . . Says Who?: Stories from Volunteers, Nonprofits, Donors and Those They Want to Help.”

We found some guiding principles that we hope will serve as a GPS system for turning good will into more productive outcomes whether at home or abroad. You can read the introduction and more at www.doinggoodsayswho.com. Vaya con Dios.

Fall 2016 • 19

loretto community members to remember Lenore Carroll CoL

Jan. 7, 1938 — May 28, 2016

Lenore French was born in Kansas City, Mo., the daughter of Earl Leaton French and Bernice Smith French. Lenore and her sister Cecilia attended Catholic schools in Kansas City. Lenore became an avid swimmer and budding journalist during that time. She graduated from the University of Missouri Journalism School, where she met and married Bob Carroll soon afterward. They had two sons, Michael and John. As they raised their family, Lenore earned an MA degree in guidance and counseling and also taught college classes at Longview Community College and the University of Missouri Kansas City. Lenore parted from Bob after 31 years of marriage. Later she met Mary McNellis SL and Pat Kenoyer SL at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish where Lenore was active. They urged her to explore Loretto co-membership, which she did in 2003. In 2010 her co-membership became final. Lenore Carroll was 78 at the time of her unexpected death in Kansas City, and in her seventh year of life as a Loretto Co-member.

Lee Connolly SL (formerly Sister Michael Marie)

Feb. 22, 1924 — March 19, 2016

Mary Leona was born in Chicago to William and Mary Connolly. The family, including an older sister Veronica Margaret, called “Bon,” lived in Chicago until Lee was in fifth grade, then moved to Monrovia, Calif. Lee attended Loretto schools, and in her junior year asked to enter the Loretto Novitiate, joining the postulant class in 1942 at the Kentucky Motherhouse. She received the habit and the name Sister Michael Marie in 1943, making final vows in 1948 at age 24. She held several teaching assignments, and in 1961 began her first long-term assignment at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, St. Louis. In 1970 Lee took a position at the Jewish Employment and Vocational Services (JEVS) in St. Louis working with the mentally ill. This work became her passion for the next 25 years. She was appointed assistant director and counseling supervisor of JEVS in 1976, and director of rehabilitation in 1981. In 1987 she became vice president of the agency, reorganized as Metro Employment and Rehabilitation Services. She continued her award-winning work, especially with the deaf, until retiring in 1995. Then Lee and her friend Frances Mary Myers moved to Huntington Beach, Calif., to be with Lee’s sister, Bon, until 2004, when both Fran and Lee returned to the Motherhouse. Sister Lee was 92 at the time of her death and in her 73rd year as a Sister of Loretto.

Simone Inkel SL

Oct. 1, 1928 — May 14, 2016

Sister Simone began life as Marie Rolande in Barre, Vt., one of eight children of Oliva and Marie-Anna Inkel, both French Canadians who settled in Mobile, Ala. Marie Rolande attended Catholic schools in Mobile and met the Sisters of Loretto at Bishop Toolen High School. She entered Loretto in 1948 and took the name Sister Mary Simone, making first vows in 1951 and final vows in 1954. Simone’s first assignment was to teach primary grades at Loretto Academy in Kansas City for four years, and then six years at St. Michael’s School, Houston. During the summers she earned her bachelor’s degree from Loretto Heights College in Denver. In 1962 Simone was sent to study theology in Brussels, Belgium, and completed a master’s program in theology at Marquette University in 1966. She was director of religious education for the Archdiocese of Denver in 1967, and moved a year later to work in parish education in Illinois. In 1971 Simone moved to Loretto Motherhouse and began a long ministry of prayer and service to the aging and sick with her good friend Lois Conarchy SL. They moved to Indiana in 1989 to continue their work. Simone died in Indianapolis at age 87 in her 68th year as a Sister of Loretto.

Marie Dolorosa Simones SL

Feb. 21, 1926 — March 22, 2016

Dolorosa Victoria was born in Dubuque, Iowa, to Joseph and Florence Simones. Her sister Cissy was her only sibling. She was taught by the Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Dubuque through high school and two years of college. When her family moved to Denver, she transferred to Loretto Heights College. In 1948 she entered Loretto, and the following spring received the habit and the name Sister Marie Dolorosa, making first vows in 1951 and final vows in 1954. From 1951 to 1967, Dolie, as she was then known, taught in Catholic elementary schools in Missouri, Viriginia and Kentucky. In 1967, when Sisters were free to choose their ministry, Dolie ruturned to Denver to teach upper elementary grades at St. Vincent’s School for 37 of her 58 teaching years. She loved teaching and was a superb educator. She traveled for years to Europe in the summer and also to Russia, Canada, Mexico and Turkey. She was an excellent cook and hostess. Sister Marie Dolorosa was 90 at the time of her death at Loretto Motherhouse and in her 67th year as a Sister of Loretto.

20 • Loretto Magazine

gifts

Memorials and Tributes of Honor January - May 2016 In Memory of: Requested by:

Sandra Ardoyno SL Therese Stawowy* Sally Godfrey Arpe Beatrice & Jeffrey Hahn Martha Belke SL Kathleen & Michael Dicken Deborah & Roger Tevis Ann Kaelin Bess Lisa Echsner Frances Beuterback Marjorie & Robert Felsburg Cecil Brann Maria Brann* Mary Judith Brown SL Florence & John Brown Ronald Gipson Alexius Burgess Eileen Burgess Lenore Carroll* The Loretto Community Jimmy Chan Valerie Chan Constance Clifford Kathleen & Thomas Dostal Deceased members of the Clifford & Novak Families Bernie & Pat Clifford Deceased members of the Clifford Family Denise Ann Clifford SL Michaela Collins SL Joan Schlueter Lee Connolly SL Susan Martin & Mark Bemberg Timothy Corrigan Ann Corrigan Julia Dooling SL Msgr. Leo Horrigan

Throughout this list of Memorials and Tributes, an asterisk ( *) following a name identifies that person as a Loretto Co-member.

Sophie Dostal Kathleen & Thomas Dostal Donna Dwyer David Dwyer Charlotte Ann Ell SL Joseph C. Spina OSF Lois Elliott James O’Connor Rosemary Fiori SL Kathy & Tim Farrell Mary Fitzpatrick Michele E. Nelan Theresa Gies Tony Geis Mark Geis Kathleen & Joseph Greco Marilyn Greco Donald Hamburg Leah Audin Colorado River District Barbara & Peter Conroy Billie Day Susan & Ed Donovan Timothy Gibbons Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Hamburg Julie Van Heyningen Theresa Kinealy* Ben Levek Monaghan Family Nancy Morehead Marie Nakayama Sylvia Priest Karolyn Snow Arlene Wood Theodore Hansen Janet & John O’Connor Fred Harris* Jane Harris*

Marie Noël Hebert SL James C. Hebert Catherine Hencmann Adele & Bill DeLine Joseph Highland Mary Highland Marie Patrice Hoare SL Mary Gail & Thomas Horan Mary Pat Rock Hubert Catherine & David Rock Margaret Ann Hummel SL Ellen & Dominic Grisanti Mary Jane Hummel SL Ellen & Dominic Grisanti Simone Inkel SL The Loretto Community Rev. Msgr. William H. Jones The Loretto Community Daniel Kinealy The Loretto Community Phyllis Klein The Loretto Community Margaret Rose Knoll SL Catherine (Kitty) Madden* Corrine Kuester Sandra Kuester Abby Marie Lanners Patricia & Larry Lanners Bernice Lattin Eugenie Allord Paschalita Linehan SL Kathy & Tim Farrell Louise Berezny Bob Lodwick The Loretto Community Matthew Lopez The Loretto Community

Fall 2016 • 21

gifts

In Memory of: Requested by:

continued

Sisters of Loretto, Cathedral of St. Peter School, Rockford, Ill. David Gill Sisters of Loretto who taught at St. Mary’s and Loretto Heights College Virginia Faulker Sisters of Loretto who taught me: Mary Rhodes Buckler SL Jean Gillespie SL Aquin Hesseldenz SL Carlos Marie Lubeck SL Marie Catherine Pohndorf SL

Requested by Regina Bowman Francene Lum SL Monica Chew Rosalie Malec* The Loretto Community Ann Manganaro SL Kathleen Manganaro Sue Fitzwilliams Mangum The Loretto Community Deceased members of the Marasco Family Helen C. Teter Sheila Marie McCormick SL Barbara & Louis Roehm Anna Louise Medley Family of Anna Louise Medley Bill Minelli Sally Minelli Maureen Nalle Patricia A. Parry Deceased members of the Newton Family Helen C. Teter Jon Peters The Loretto Community Patricia Egizii Pirch Gloria McGehee-Koel Marija Puc-Remec Andrej Remec Marie Joann Rekart SL Betty Burnsed Kathy & Tim Farrell Lisa Stumm

22 • Loretto Magazine

Zada Frances Riley Joey Dacanay Mimi Ewens Robert Lee Riley Rose Mary Riley Patricia Murphy Sheets Sandra Shoults White The Loretto Community Wilda & Donald G. Ramras Angeline & Dan Kinnaman Francis Louise Ritter SL Alison Chen Mary Sawyers Kelly Marie Darby Leonora Mary Schierman SL Rene Lusser Mary Schildz The Loretto Community Ann Mary Schilling SL Kenneth Haner Anne Roberta Schilling SL Kenneth Haner Jean Clare Schilling SL Kenneth Haner Mr. & Mrs. Paul Schmidt Regina Schmidt Paul Sheffer Joan Sheffer Barbara Ann Shultz SL Jean Chapman Marie Dolorosa Simones SL Karyl Klein The Loretto Community Florence & Junius Speas Barbara & Robert Havira Eleanor & Lee Sprague The Loretto Community Elizabeth (Betty) Standiford Joan & Henry Barry Verna Cavey June Celichowski Maureen Flanigan* Barbara Fonda Linn & George Redding Ann Wall Richards

Photo by Carolyn Dunbar

Joan Strohmeyer Theresa Coyle SL Susan Swain SL Kathy & Tim Farrell Charles Sweat The Loretto Community Jeannine Swift* The Loretto Community Therese Stawowy* Christine Thompson SL Msgr. Leo Horrigan Emmanuel Tonne SL Janice Murphy Deceased members of the Toolen Family Patti Toolen Kratschmer Concetta Torillo SL The Loretto Community Joseph C. Spina OSF Beverly Troudt Shelly & Dan Clem Ann White SL Bertha Timmel Ann Madeleine Willard SL Jean Wedekind

gifts

In Honor of: Requested by:

The Alpers Family Patrick Alpers Guadalupe Arciniega SL Catherine (Kitty) Madden* Mary E. (Buffy) Boesen SL Jo Ann & Joe Furay Patricia Carlson James C. McCullagh Denise Ann Clifford SL Ladies Auxiliary, Knights of Columbus, Bishop Evans Council 10122 Pat Montgomery Rosemary & Jack Oliver † Lee Connolly SL Susan Murray & Michael Tevlin Mary Ann Coyle SL Maureen Flanigan* Eleanor Craig SL Katherine Woodward Donna Day SL Susan & Dennis Cuddihee Carolyn Dunbar Catherine (Kitty) Madden* The Elder Family Sally Minelli Patricia Frueh SL Fritz Hitchcock Gabriel Mary Hoare SL Mary Gail & Tom Horan Mary Nelle Gage SL Michael Boender Ruth Routten* Paul Goggins & Family Colette & Terry Purcell Jeannine Gramick SL Joan O’Neill Joanna O’Neill Mary Jo Lackaff Terrence Mischel & Bradley Cameron Mary Katherine Hammett SL, 91st Birthday Marilyn Montenegro

Nancy Head Suzanne & Robert Levonian Gabriel Mary Hoare SL Mary Gail & Thomas A. Horan Patricia Hummel SL Ellen & Dominic Grisanti Simone Inkel SL Sheila Zipse Jean Johnson SL Barbara Johnson Sharon Kassing SL Cynthia Bertram Anna Koop SL Arthur Carbonell, Jr. Living Presidents of Loretto:

Lillian Moskeland* Spiritual Dream Catchers All members of the Newton Family Helen C. Teter Barbara Nicholas SL Bea & Harold Combs Lydia Peña SL Frances Candlin Fannie Harris Fiddmont Joan Kidnay Ruth Routten* Bernadette & Roger Seick Russ Shaw Rosalie Marie Phillips SL Dorothy & Randall Dean Mary Ann Coyle SL Thomas Stauder Marian McAvoy SL Gerald Stevinson Maureen McCormack SL Michael Stevison Pearl McGivney SL JoAnn* & Larry* Purcell Catherine Mueller SL Judy & Steve Reyhle Mary Catherine Rabbitt SL Jessie Rathburn* Requested by Marie “Reidy” Clark* Maureen Flanigan* Sisters of Loretto Ruth Routten* Mary Bickel Anthony Mary Sartorius SL Kelly Marie Darby Ronald Gipson Rich Evans Insurance Agency Agnes Ann Schum SL Schulte Family Eleanor Begley Sisters of Loretto 2016 Jubilarians Daniel Sedillo Susan Charmley SL Rosina Sedillo Virginia Ann Driscoll SL Janis Sedillo Marie Ego SL Jack Sena Theresa Louise Wiseman SL Jeanette Sedillo Requested by Carol Ann Ptacek SL Daniel Sedillo Mary Frances Lottes SL Rosina Sedillo Lottes Charitable Trust Orlando Sedillo All members of the Marasco Family Sylvia Sedillo SL Helen C. Teter Mary Ellen McElroy SL, 80th Birthday Jeanette Sedillo Jack Sena Judith Baenen* Janis Sedillo Mary Ann McGivern SL Clyde Spero Tom Smith The Loretto Community Penny McMullen SL Joan Spero SL, 80th Birthday L.W. & K.M. Accola Judith Baenen* Mary Jo Moana Kathleen Tighe SL Mary Highland Mary Bickel

Fall 2016 • 23

Loretto Magazine

590 E. Lockwood St. Louis, MO 63119-3279

Address Service Requested

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID ST. LOUIS, MO PERMIT NO. 2816

A long-awaited renovation gleams in St. Joseph Church, Loretto Academy, El Paso