confiança A Publication
of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, Joliet, IL
Irmà Beatriz’s Final Profession SPRING-2015
A Welcome from Sister Dolores Zemont
Confiança A publication of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate 1433 Essington Road Joliet, IL 60435 (815) 725-8735 www.jolietfranciscans.org
Dear Friends, De
E d it or/ L ay out Des ig n
L uc y Sa nc h e z
Us Usually the first few months of the year are a more quiet time for us. This is the time when we begin planning for Jubilee, which is us in June, and the Annual Summer Gathering of the Sisters and Associates, which is in late July/early August. But this is a very difso ferent year for us, which means the first few months are anything fe but bu quiet.
Di rector of Comm un icat i o n s lsanchez@j olietf ran ciscan s . o rg
C op y E dit ors S r . Ca rle ne Ho well J en nife r C moli k
INSIDE THIS ISSUE I rm a B eat ri z’s Pro fessi on
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M e et My Mi ni st ry
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1 5 0 t h Cel eb r at i ons
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C o n n ec t ion s
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S is t er H onored
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A s s o ci at es ’ C orner
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C al en d ar of E vent s
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A t J o u rney’s End -I rmã Lu zi a Ap a r eci d a D ani e l
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-Sr. A n n a M a ri e Me t z
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Mission Statement Led by the Spirit, we embrace the Gospel life by commitment to Franciscan values and respond to the needs of our time through prayer, community and ministry.
Sister Dorothy Kinsella and I traveled to Brazil in January where I received the Final Vows of our Sister Beatriz de Sousa. While there, I had the opportunity to visit with all of our Sisters who minister in Brazil. It is always a rewarding time to witness the impactful work of our Congregation in this area of the world. Once back home, as part of our 150th anniversary celebrations, the Sisters were honored at a Mass and reception at St. Pius X in Lombard, Illinois. Many of our Sisters served the parish since 1956. In fact, Sister Pauline Schu still works in the parish today as a Pastoral Minister. A few weeks later, several of us traveled to Florida where we visited Cardinal Gibbons High School (CGHS) in Fort Lauderdale and St. Coleman’s Parish in Pompano Beach, also as part of our 150th anniversary celebration. We were honored at Masses and receptions at both places. We visited with friends and current and former students, and even connected with a family member of Mother Alfred Moes, our foundress. Although our Sisters no longer minister at St. Coleman’s, two still serve at CGHS. Sister Janet Rieden teaches English and Art History. Sister Marie Schramko served as the first principal of the girls’ high school when CGHS opened in 1961 and today she is the Assistant Principal and is about to celebrate her 80th Jubilee as a Joliet Franciscan! I had the opportunity to visit Sister Kay Uchman in Phoenix last month and took the opportunity to a end a Chicago Cubs spring training game. Yes, I am a hopeless Cubs fan! Our sponsored institutions joined together recently in a Fine Arts performance recognizing the Congregation’s work in the areas of music and art. It was a wonderful afternoon featuring a chime choir from Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home, a medley of songs from “The Sound of Music” performed by three University of St. Francis students, as well as tunes from “Thoroughly Modern Millie” sung by Joliet Catholic Academy students, and a heart-stealing, smile-inducing performance by children of the Franciscan Learning Center. So, as you can see, we have been very busy, but not too busy to remember to thank you for all that you do for us through your presence and your spiritual and financial support. As I pray each morning, I remember you before the Lord in gratitude.
© 2015 - Joliet Franciscans
Peace and all good, On the cover: Sister Beatriz de Sousa prepares to profess her final vows.
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Sister Dolores Zemont, OSF President
Advancing the Mission Hello everyone! In every issue of Confiança, I learn something new about someone or something. This one is no different. The upcoming 150th Anniversary of the Congregation’s founding and everything leading up to it is front and center in the activities of many of us. There have been a number of celebrations so far in 2015. You will find a few photos from them for your enjoyment. We continue our “Meet My Ministry” series by introducing you to Sister Yvonne Weidner. Sister Yvonne currently works at Christian Brothers Services as a Member Relations Associate. In addition to that, she is a Local Chapter Coordinator for the Congregation. Sister Yvonne celebrated her 50th Jubilee in 2012. She is known as a great baker, especially for her pies. Having sampled her zucchini nut bread at our Prayer Breakfasts, I can a est to her baking talents! In this issue’s installment of “Connections,” you will meet Fran Naal Sczepaniak. I have known Fran for eight years and can tell you she is a dedicated individual – dedicated to God, family, friends and community. Her connection to the Joliet Franciscan Sisters dates back to her first day on earth. All of the individuals we cover in our “Connections” pieces are unique, as is Fran. I am proud to know her. Over the past year, some of you have contacted me asking when we would be updating our website. Our website went down on us unexpectedly last year and the decision was made by the Governing Board to totally revamp it. Now that the website is back, I invite you to visit it at www.jolietfranciscans.org. Everything we would have added to the site last year is there as well as new information. Let me know what you think by calling me at 815-725-8735 or sending an email to nnagl@jolietfranciscans.org.
We are preparing for our “3rd Annual Afternoon Tea at the Abbey” on Sunday, June 7, 2 P.M. at the Jacob Henry Mansion in Joliet. If the first two Teas are any indication, this year’s Tea will again Nan Nagl Director of Mission Advancement provide our guests with an enjoyable afternoon, while also raising money for the Sisters. Tickets are $40.00 per person and there will be a few raffles, too. Additionally, we will feature the song stylings of Valerie Giuliani. Here’s an opportunity to get dressed up, maybe put on a great hat, get some friends together and spend a “fun” two hours with us. Call me for more information or to order tickets. Thank you for your response to our appeals. The current one is our Annual Retirement Appeal which provides support for our retired Sisters. Please consider making a donation in memory or honor of a family member or, perhaps, a favorite teacher. You make a difference and we thank you. Until next time, enjoy the miracle of each new day.
Sisters Inducted into JCA Hall of Fame On March 26, the Joliet Franciscan Sisters were one of five inductees to the Joliet Catholic Academy (JCA) Hall of Fame. During her introduction, JCA’s Vice Principal for Curriculum and Technology Laura Pahl noted that St. Francis Academy began in 1869, only four years after the Congregation’s founding. The Academy merged with Joliet Catholic High School in 1990 to become JCA. In accepting the Hall of Fame plaque on behalf of the Sisters, Congregation President Sister Dolores Zemont noted that many of the Sisters attending the induction ceremony had been former students and teachers at St. Francis Academy. In fact, one of the Sisters taught at SFA in the 1940s. This is not the first time the Sisters have been inducted into JCA’s Hall of Fame. Former JCA President, Sister Faith Szambelanczyk, was inducted in 2011 and Sisters Barbara Kwiatkowski and Peggy Quinn were inducted in 2014.
Sisters gathered together to take part in JCA’s Hall of Fame celebration.
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Irmã Beatriz de Sousa makes Final Profession On January 24, 2015, Sister Beatriz de Sousa, OSF, professed her final vows in the Congregation and became the newest member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate. Sister Beatriz was born and raised in Brazil. In 2006 she joined the Irmãs Franciscanas (Franciscan Sisters) where she began to live with and minister among the Joliet Franciscan Sisters. The Congregation had established its Brazilian Mission in 1963. In 2010 Sister Beatriz professed her simple vows and officially became a member of the Congregation. She was then referred to as “Sister” Beatriz. As a teenager she began to participate actively in her local parish. “It was because of my participation at church that first sparked a desire in me to experience religious life,” said Sister Beatriz. Years later, she remembers meeting the Joliet Franciscans and the impact they made on her life. “I began to appreciate the work of the Sisters, and the desire to share in their way of life grew in me,” she said. Father Sergio do Nascimento, former pastor, and Sister Beatriz de Sousa.
Sister Dolores Zemont, President of the Congregation, travelled to Brazil with Sr. Dorothy Kinsella, who is serving as historian of the Congregation, to participate in the final vow ceremony. Following is Sister Dorothy Kinsella’s reflection.
“During my first visit to Brazil I recognized that I was an eyewitness not only to Irmȃ Beatriz de Sousa’s faith journey, but also to that of the faith community that supports her. Prior to the Final Profession Day, January 24, 2015, there was a Triduum. I was told that the Youth Groups from the chapel Sȃo José Operário, an arm of the parish church Cristo Rei, did all the organizing for these days. The first day of the Triduum touched me to the core. It was the Eucharistic Prayer Service arranged by the Youth Group. The St. George Chapel musicians played like pros and with much enthusiasm. The presider of the Eucharistic Prayer Service, Senhor Vanderlei, was a young married layman with a new baby. I was Signing the profession book: Sister Beatriz signs as Sister Margaso inspired by him. He presided prayerfully and with confidence. He told me after the service how nervous he was. He was ret Noser and Sister Doloers Zemont witness her signature. new to conducting services. This prayer night is an indelible memory. It showed me the empowerment of the laity at work, which are the fruits of Sister Beatriz’s ministry among the youth in Brazil. I had e-mailed both Irmȃ Beatriz and Irmȃ Ruth Berry to get some details to include in my reflection. In the process of doing this I learned that every Sister in Brazil had a part in the preparations for Sister Beatriz’s Profession. Her Profession was a community effort. Sister Beatriz told Sister Ruth that for her “it was a joyful and tranquil celebration; she was more tranquil than she thought she ever would be – but that was because everyone helped and everything went smoothly.” Blessing of the ring: Sisters Margaret Noser, Dolores Zemont, Beatriz de Sousa and Fr. Sergio do Nascimento.
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During the 7:00 p.m. Mass in the over-flowing Chapel of Mary Immaculate, Sister Beatriz was called forth by Sister Dolores Zemont, the Congregation’s President, and Irmȃ Margaret Noser, Regional Coordinator and translator. Sister Dolores asked Irmȃ Beatriz deliberately phrased questions as set in our Congregation’s Ritual for Final Profession. The questions covered Church, Franciscan/Clarean spirituality, prayer, and vows. They express a way of life. I remember the two answers said clearly by Sister Beatriz after each question: “Quero!” (Yes, I do) and “Amen!” For me these words marked the “Final Profession.” When I remember this evening, the image I remember is that of priests, sisters, and choir members forming a semi-circle around Sister Beatriz. Completing the circle were the Franciscan Sisters on one side and on the other side stood her mother, Maria Divina de Sousa; her sister, Keila Aparecida de Sousa; her grandmother, Sebastiana Maria de Sousa and Sister Beatriz surrounded by family and friends after grandfather, Corsino Ferreirade Sousa along with lots of other relatives. Mass. “It was a joyful and tranquil celebration for me,” Added to this were Sister Beatriz’s fellow teachers at San Damiano, stu- said Sister Beatriz. dents from the University she attends and parishioners from the many parish chapels. A diverse and fully alive faith community rejoicing with a courageous woman! On a humorous note I want to share this photo-op. Sister Dolores gave me her phone and asked that I capture some highlights of the Profession. I did not have the opportunity to tell her “I don’t do pictures; I never owned a camera!” I decided with trepidation that I would honor this request. However, I was so situated in the chapel pew that I could not readily slip out to take the photos. What to do? So, I quickly turned to Irmȃ Jeronima Marques da Costa and asked if she could take the pictures. She wrinkled her brow. I was getting a bit nervous. Photo time was nearing. To the rescue -- Sister Jeronima flagged a dear friend who took the phone and, not missing a beat, artfully wrangled her way amid the host of camera people and took lots of pictures. What a relief! After the Profession Liturgy, everyone was invited to a Feast. We walked across the Chapel to the school gym where the teachers and coordinators who work at San Damiano School had turned the building into a wonderland. The decorations were breath-taking. I felt a touch of nostalgia remembering the days of school dances and proms when drab rooms were turned into magic wonderlands. A full meal was served prepared by chefs who own restaurants. They had help from many volunteers from the parish. Sister Beatriz’s cake looked like it belonged in an art museum. It was a party!! A party for our Sister Beatriz!
No celebration would be complete without a cake! Sister Beatriz and friends gather in front of her St. Francis Cake. As Sister Dorothy Kinsella said, “It was a party! A party for our Sister Beatiz!”
It had been hot all day; oh truthfully, it had been abnormally hot! It had not rained in weeks and we were experiencing drought-like conditions. Near the end of the party the rain finally came. Fortunately the gym had a protective cover. The rain broke the pattern of exaggerated temperatures. This occurred on Sister Beatriz’s Final Profession Day, a true blessing!
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Meet My Ministry Meet Sister Yvonne Weidner, OSF. Sister Yvonne is currently serving as the Member Relations Associate for Christian Brothers Services in Romeoville, Illinois. She also serves the Congregation as a Local Chapter Group Coordinator for a number of Sisters and is a Companion Sister in the Associate Program. Following is her ministry story. - Lucy Sanchez, Communications Director
“It isn’t the city or state that I travel to that I enjoy; it is the member I look forward to seeing that keeps me going!” s a Member Relations Associate with Christian Brothers Services (CBS), a non-profit Catholic organization, I have been asked by many, including my own Sisters, “What do you actually do?” To give a little background history, I was invited to join the staff at Christian Brothers Risk Pooling Trust, a division of Christian Brothers Services, in 2003. “The mission of Christian Brothers Services is to serve the Catholic Church Community and other faith-based organizations by responding to their managerial needs.” As a member of the Trust while working at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home, I was approached to be a consultant for a video titled: “A Point of View: Quality Care through Communication” which Christian Brothers Risk Management was producing. This would be a free service for the Trust members and it would allow members to communicate and document information that affects the quality of care of their residents. I accepted and, as the project was drawing to a close, I was once again approached and asked to join the staff full-time. I accepted. When I began at CBS, I was given the title of Member Relations Associate and was charged with designing a program where members belonging to the Risk Pooling Trust would be visited. I came up with the title: Member Benefits Assurance (MBA) Program. The main purpose is to focus on the retention and satisfaction of the Risk Pooling Trust Member. Are we meeting their needs? What services would they like to have? And finally, are we serving them as members of the Trust? The philosophy of the Member Benefits Assurance program is like the saying: “People don’t care how much you know or do until they know how much you care!” Keep in mind, I have never been to the member’s city or state or place of employment, nor have I ever met them personally. All they
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know about me is that I represent Christian Brothers Services. When I give them the purpose of my visit they appear cautious. Meeting members face-to-face and listening to them offers these advantages: obtaining a subjective measure of the level of service; paying attention to what is going on in the members’ organizations; and finding a better way of doing the right things in the right way. As Risk Pooling Trust members, we desire to get it right and provide professional, knowledgeable staff to support them. For the most part, when round two of these visitations take place, I find them much more relaxed and welcoming. I guess it is just human nature to think the worst. All of the Sponsored Institutions of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Mary Immaculate, namely, University of Saint Francis, Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home, Joliet Catholic Academy, and Franciscan Learning Center, have been with the Risk Pooling Trust for many years. It was through Sister Bernadette Sifferlin, OSF, a past treasurer of the Congregation, that we joined Photo credit: Christian Brothers Services
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Sister Yvonne spends a lot of time driving to each of the members’ site. She has a GPS - but also has a hard copy of a map in the car!
Sister Yvonne meets with Sister Margaret Mary Cosgrove, BVM, a member of the Christian Brothers Trust.
the Christian Brothers Trust over 35 years ago. The Trust not only protects the Congregation financially by providing coverage of our property and vehicles but is the recipient of resources to achieve desired risk management objectives. What I have come to realize over the past 12 years in my travels, visiting the members of the Trust across the USA (including Hawaii), is how connected people really are to each other. There is a commonality of what members come to expect from our services: that is, to clarify, answer questions or simply to speak to a real person because we treat them like individuals. They are human beings with needs and they want the assurance that they have the necessary coverage in place and that they are protected should a loss occur in a changing economy. If someone would have told me that I would be traveling the entire USA, boarding planes and renting cars, I would have said: “Not me!” I see myself as a servant leader meeting the members of the Trust. It has been a privilege to meet Congregation Treasurers, Managers, Provincials and Council Members, Presidents and Executive Directors. For the most part, they all have the same concerns: aging population of their Congregation, vacant and/or unoccupied buildings and the dwindling enrollment in elementary, secondary schools and universities.
When I first began my ministry, I traveled using a hard copy of Map Quest by my side. Then, Sister Mary Ann Schnelker, OSF (deceased) found Microsoft Streets and Trips. But when I travelled to California, the rental car I was given had a GPS. What a wonderful invention! However, with every good invention there are some downfalls. If you have a GPS, you know that when the screen displays ‘low battery,’ you think, “no,” but what actually happens is that the GPS immediately turns off, even though it is still plugged in! This is not good when one is in a strange city. That is why, to this day, I always have a hard copy of a map in the car. Another challenge I experience is the dreaded security line at the airport. I have stories that could entertain many during a social event! I have learned to stay with one airline and that has given me the advantage of being of “A-List Status” which allows me to keep my shoes on and leave everything in my carry-on. Luckily, I am through the security line in less than 5 minutes! All in all, it isn’t the city or state that I travel to, since I’ve made friends wherever I travel. It is the member I look forward to seeing that keeps me going! Photo credit: Christian Brothers Services
Photo credit: Christian Brothers Services
At the annual review with my Supervisor, Michael Vollmer, Risk Manager, I thanked him for taking a chance on me when I joined the staff at CBS. Not only was I able to create and put flesh on this position, but my being here made it possible for the members of the Trust to be able to contact someone other than their account manager… a Religious speaking to another Religious since we speak the same language!
We are on Facebook! Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, Joliet, IL
A Member Assurance visit to Colombiere Center in Clarkston, MI. Left to right: Mr. Brian Giles, Sister Yvonne and Mr. Joe Manuszak.
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“Remember - Celebrate - Embrace” By: Sister Albert Marie Papesh, OSF “Remember - Celebrate - Embrace!” Yes, those words truly resonated not only in my heart but also in the hearts of all the Sisters who attended the 150th Anniversary Celebrations at Cardinal Gibbons High School (CGHS) in Fort Lauderdale, and St. Coleman Parish in Pompano Beach. When reflecting on these events, these words come alive with special meaning since I had taught at St. Coleman’s School in the early sixties. Remembering brought back many memories of the early years of both schools. St. Coleman’s was in its fourth year, and CGHS in its second. We Sisters shared not only new beginnings, but also community life, as we planted Joliet Franciscan seeds that have grown and flourished over the past 57 years.
Ten Joliet Franciscan Sisters were present when the school opened its doors on September 9,1958.
Celebrating our 150th along with those years of service was joyful, heartwarming and humbling. St. Coleman’s remembered the past and, according to the Pastor, treasures the legacy the Sisters left behind as was reflected in the spirit and dedication we observed visiting the school and interacting with the children and teachers. CGHS’s administration, staff, faculty and students overwhelmed us with their generosity, tributes and gratitude not only for our past service but also for the treasured presence of Sister Marie Schramko, their foundress, and Sister Janet Rieden, who has “graduated every Senior Class at CGHS!” Sister Joanne Marusa also taught at St. Coleman School. Here she is visiting her former classroom.
As for Embracing? It is the next step in the journey of living. Looking back, we are urged forward, as were the Sisters before us, trusting in God who has led us throughout these 150 years from the little stone house on Broadway Street in Joliet, Illinois, to the present, and who will guide us into the future. Left: Assembly at Cardinal Gibbons High School (CGHS) in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Bottom left: Sister Marie Schramko and Sister Felicity (Joy) Gaffney (behind the 150th banner) lead Sisters Jacqueline Hirsch, Albert Marie Papesh, Joanne Marusa and Kathy Salewski during the opening procession at CGHS. Bottom right: Sister Marie Schramko (left) became the first principal of the girl’s division at CGHS in 1961 and Sister Janet Rieden (right) arrived in 1963. Both of these Sisters continue to minister at the school.
We sincerely thank Brother Michael Brickman, CSC of Cardinal Gibbons H.S. for sharing these photos with us.
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150th Anniversary Events
Photos taken by Sister Marianne Saieg, OSF
Joliet Franciscan Sisters 150th Year Anniversary Calendar of Events
Bottom photo: (Back row) Sr. Clarita, Sr. Kathleen, Marilyn, Sr. Peggy, Sr. Nadine, Sr. Jane, Sr. Albert Marie, Sr. Margaret Rose, Sr. Brigid. (Middle row): Sr. Rose Marie, Sr. Anna, Sr. Patricia, Sr. Alice Ann, Sr. Teresinha, Sr. Lois, Sr. Helen, Sr. Anita, Sr. Mary Lou, Sr. Marianne, Sr. Ann. (Seated): Sr. Pauline, Sr. Rosemary, Sr. Sandra, Sr. Dolores and Sr. Mary Jean.
150th Celebration St. Pius X Parish Lombard, IL.
April 26
Cathedral of St. Raymond Parish & School Joliet, IL
May 15-18
Holy Family Parish and St. Francis Parish Bayfield and Red Cliff, WI
May 30
Blue Stem Earth Festival University of St. Francis Joliet, IL
June 28
St. John the Baptist Parish Blessing of Mother Alfred’s first home - Joliet, IL
July 18
St. Joseph Parish Joliet, IL
July 30-31
Summer Gathering
August 1
Memorial Service Deceased Sisters and Associates
August 2
ANNIVERSARY MASS
Above: Sisters gather for Mass. Left: Sisters Dolores Zemont and Pauline Schutz. Below: Sister Peggy Quinn shows the Congregation “napkin favors” given to each of the Sisters.
Cathedral of St. Raymond 2:00 PM August 8
St. Paul the Apostle Parish Joliet, IL
September 18-20
St. Mary Immaculate Parish Plainfield, IL
September 26
St. Andrew Parish Romeoville, IL
October 11
St. Mary Parish Columbus, OH
For more dates, please visit the Joliet Franciscan website www.jolietfranciscans.org or the 150th anniversary page on Facebook.
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Connections Do you have a connection to the Sisters that you would like to share with us? Call Lucy Sanchez at (815) 725-8735 x 119 or by email at: LSanchez@ jolietfranciscans.org. We would love to highlight your story here! By: Lucy Sanchez Frances (Fran) Naal Sczepaniak has been a longtime friend of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, though her “connection” to the Sisters began long before she was even born! Her aunt, Sister Loretta (Hilary) Tures, OSF, entered the Congregation on August 12, 1935, a year before Fran was born. And through this first connection, Fran would become very involved in many of the activities of the Sisters. “It was funny how Sr. Loretta came to know that I was even born,” said Fran. “At that time, Sr. Loretta was in her first year in the convent when the novices were in their quiet year. That means they were supposed to have no contact with their family or the outside world. Sr. Loretta knew that my mother was pregnant at the time. One day, as the novices were sent on their daily work duties, Sr. Loretta was sent to mop the floors in the kitchen. During those days, newspapers were laid on the wet floors to help them dry faster. Sr. Owen, who was also on kitchen duty that day, happened to glance down at the section of birth announcements in the Herald News. There, in black and white, was the birth announcement of Frances Tures, niece of Sr. Loretta Tures.” Fran recalls that her aunt was overjoyed to learn of her birth; however, when the Superior found out that they had read the paper, it was only Sr. Loretta who had to pay the consequence, since she was the “new aunt.” Though Fran was born in Joliet, she was raised on a farm in Peotone, Illinois. Thanks to the persistence of Sr. Loretta, Fran’s connection to the Sisters of St. Francis would continually grow over the years. In 1954, Sr. Loretta convinced her brother, Fran’s father, to have Fran come to Joliet after finishing high school. She told him to send Fran to the College of St. Francis where she would get a good education. Because of the distance between Peotone and Joliet, Fran would also need to stay on campus. This gave her the opportunity to become friends with many of the younger Sisters because they were boarders too. Fran also became close to many of her teachers as well. Thanks to her studies, including an elective course in home economics where she learned how to sew under the tutelage of Sr. Terry Tusek, Fran would use many of these skills throughout her life. She graduated from the College
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of St. Francis in 1958 and went to work as a case worker in the Illinois Department of Public Aid. After marrying Albert Naal in 1961, Fran became acquainted with Sr. Albert Marie Papesh, who had been a classmate of Albert’s at St. Raymond in Joliet. When Sister Albert Marie became Director of Development, one of the first people she asked to be on a fund-raising committee was Fran Naal. Soon after, the 520 Group, which had started as a social group then merged into a fundraising committee, was formed. Events such as the Champaign Brunch, Story Time, Sunrise Mass and Christmas in July were planned yearly to raise funds for the Sisters.
Above: Fran holds her Aunt Loretta’s watch and locket. “She was very special to me,” said Fran. Left: Sr. Loretta Tures, OSF, receives an award for her 52 years of teaching in secondary education. In Joliet, she taught at Joliet Catholic High School, St. Francis Academy and at the College of St. Francis.
Sister Honored A few years later after her first husband passed away in 2006, Fran remarried. Among her guests at the wedding were Sisters Albert Marie Papesh and Bernadette Sifferlin. Fran’s new husband, Jim Sczepaniak, was also taught by the Sisters of St. Francis, though he went to college at Lewis University. Jim was also grateful to the Sisters and before he died in November 2014, he spent time at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home.
The Franciscan Federation will honor Sister Marianne Saieg at the Annual Federation Conference on June 19-22 in Indianapolis.
To this day, Fran has remained a faithful and loyal friend of the Sisters. She is on the Autumn Feast Committee, which emerged from the 520 Group’s Champaign Brunch, and is a member of the Tea at the Abbey Committee. At the same time, she volunteers and supports many other organizations in the Joliet area including The Visitation and Aid Society, Hospice Guild, Council of Catholic Women at St. Raymond’s parish and the Alumni Board of the University of St. Francis. Though retired, Fran said she still finds time to do needlework, socialize and loves to cook and entertain.
“Sister Marianne Saieg reflects the beauty and goodness of God through her artistic expression. She sees and expresses Earth’s mystery and beauty in every medium in which she works: photography, writing, power point reflections, poetry, space design, or prayer/photo cards. Through her eyes God’s wonder is seen in all life and her pieces reflect the Franciscan spiritual life, integrating daily life and the Gospel. Assisi and the lives of Francis and Clare are highlights of her work. She uses light and color, shadow and space in ways that awaken the wonder in us.
When I asked Fran what her connection to the Joliet Franciscans means to her, she answered: “My relationship with the Sisters means a lot to me. They have been there for me as educators; they have been my friends for many, many years and they are always there when I request their prayers and, of course, there is my dear aunt, Sr. Loretta Tures, OSF. I admire them for their commitment to their community and the wonderful example they have set for all of us. God bless all of the Sisters.”
From Left: Lois Pirc, Fran Naal Sczepaniak and Meg NaalUnderwood, taken during the 150th celebration at the University of St. Francis - Sponsored Institution event.
In nominating Sister Marianne, the Congregation stated the following:
“Sister Marianne’s artistic gifts are shared with retreatants, directees, congregations, deacons and lay ministers, and parishes. She has work published in the Spiritual Journal, Alive Now; Presence: An International Journal of Spiritual Direction; and in a Meditation book called, Seeding Your Soul: Six Considerations for Spiritual Growth. “The second criteria of bringing power to the poor and powerless through artistic expression comes alive in Sister Marianne as well. She has used photography to raise awareness of the poor and powerless in PowerPoint meditaAbove: Photos taken by Sister Marianne tions, a brochure Saieg during a trip to Assisi. for the Care Fair with photos from the Jail ministry, and photo presentations, so that people with low vision can view photographs on their reading machines. “Sister Marianne’s artistic expressions make the simple extraordinary.”
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Associates’ Corner VISITING OUR OHIO ASSOCIATES By: Janine Hicks, Assistant Director of Associates Associates of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate are located across the U.S. and in Brazil. Currently, there are Associates in 13 states. Most are in states where the Sisters are ministering. It is the hope of both the Sisters and Associates to be able to find more creative ways to connect with the Associates who live outside of Joliet, besides the Associate Weekend in the spring and the Day of Reflection in the fall. Recently, Sr. Sharon Frederick, Sr. Nadine Overbeck and I traveled to Ohio to visit some of the Associates who live there. We were also invited to participate in a prayer service to celebrate the lives of Sisters Mary Oliveri and Sharon Kerscher and Associate Eleanora Podoske, who had died recently. The service was held at the home of Cathy and Kevin Kerns in Logan, Ohio. Associates Karen Fleshman, Marie Auflick, Charlotte Shaw, and Sheryl Guyman, who is starting the Associate process, were also able to participate. After the service we gathered for lunch in true Franciscan hospitality! We proceeded to have a lively discussion on what it means to be an Associate, how to further the charism of the Congregation, and ways in which we can better communicate with each other given the distance. It was wonderful to be together and to share prayer and community! Afterwards, we attended Mass at St. John’s Church where we met Associate Mary Schmitzer and ended the evening by going to dinner. We then traveled to Columbus to visit Associate Carol Diebel* who was dealing with a series of health related issues. Also joining us in prayer and lively conversation were our former Sister Kathy Walsh and Associates Karen Fleshman and Sherry Bockus. It was a wonderful visit, especially for Carol and me - since we committed to the Associate relationship at the same time we share a special bond as “classmates.” “It was wonderful to see these Associates,” said Sr. Sharon. “We are fortunate that Cathy Kerns and Karen Fleshman continue to keep our members connected.” As the trip ended, we all returned home tired, but with a renewed spirit of joy in our hearts at being able to connect with our Associates in Ohio.
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Associate Kathleen “Katie” Dunne Born: July 11, 1943 At Rest: November 17, 2014
Kathleen “Katie” Dunne, the third of four children born to Irish immigrants, was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago. She attended Sacred Heart (Englewood) Grade and High Schools. In 1961, after graduating from high school, Katie entered the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Francis (Joliet Franciscans), where she was known as Sister Peter Damian. Katie’s dream was always to be an elementary school teacher, so after receiving her degree from the College (now University) of St. Francis, she began teaching elementary school children in Illinois and Ohio. In fact, until her retirement, Katie remained a teacher for 43 years. In 1982, after 21 years as a Joliet Franciscan, Katie made the decision to leave the Congregation but remained close to many of our Sisters. In 2009, shortly after retirement, Katie received the devastating news that she had cancer. Although there were many dark days, Katie remained upbeat, convincing everyone that she was going to overcome it. Her positive attitude was a blessing for everyone. In 2012, after a long discernment, Katie made the decision to become an Associate. She was drawn to the relationship by the fact that she loved the Congregation and had so many friends who were Sisters. Sisters Rita Mandella and Bernadette Sifferlin were her Companion Sisters. We continue to miss Katie; we always will. We will miss her kindness toward everyone, her gentleness, and her joy. As her close friend, Associate Rita Travis echoed at her funeral service, “Katie was a storyteller par excellence, a people magnet and a magnificent listener.” I would imagine that Katie is now doing the same thing in heaven, bringing everyone together to hear her stories and then taking the time to listen to theirs. Heaven has become very busy!
Top left: Kathy Walsh, Karen Fleshman, Sherry Bockus. Bottom: Sr. Sharon Frederick, Janine Hicks, Carol Diebel and Sr. Nadine Overbeck.
*Associate Carol Diebel passed away on April 12, 2015.
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IN MEMORIAM
We are very grateful for all the years that Katie spent as a vowed member, an Associate, and friend of the Congregation. She is missed by many, particularly her brother Jim and her very good friend, Associate Rita Travis. She now enjoys the presence of God whom she loved and served.
Calendar of Events 2015 Prayer Breakfasts
Prayer Evenings
This year, in recognition of the 150th anniversary of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters’ founding, all four Prayer Breakfasts will feature our Sisters as speakers. Over the years, we have introduced a wide variety of topics and 2015 will be no different. We invite you to attend our breakfasts which are held at the Joliet Franciscan Center, 1433 Essington Road, Joliet, Illinois. There is a suggested donation of $10.00 for the breakfasts. We also invite you to bring a donation of non-perishable food which is delivered to a local food pantry. Reservations requested (815) 725-8735.
Prayer Evenings are on the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Joliet Franciscan Center, 1433 Essington Road in Joliet. Check our website or Facebook page for the month’s theme. For more information, call 815-725-8735.
Spring Prayer Breakfast Wednesday, April 15, 2015, 7:00AM
Afternoon Tea at the Abbey
“ARC: A Ministry of Diversity” - As part of the Sisters’ Justice Peace and Integrity of Creation Commission (JPIC), the AntiRacism Committee (ARC) was started. Through workshops and presentations, the ARC Committee works to raise consciousness and educate the community about racism. Summer Prayer Breakfast Wednesday, July 15, 2015, 7:00AM The Sisters have been teachers since the Congregation’s beginning. They founded the College of St. Francis (now the University of St. Francis), St. Francis Academy (now Joliet Catholic Academy), Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home and Guardian Angel Home. You know about the founding of the Sisters’ mission in Brazil. But there is much, much more than that in the 150 years since the Congregation began. With just a few weeks to go before the August 2 anniversary celebration, join us to hear Sister Dorothy Kinsella, OSF share more about the history built over 150 years. Back to School (Fall) Prayer Breakfast Wednesday, September 16, 2015, 7:00 AM
Bluestem Earth Festival Saturday, May 30, 10:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. University of St. Francis Joliet, Illinois
Sunday, June 7, 2:00 P.M. Jacob Henry Mansion Joliet, Illinois Tickets - $40.00
Jubilee Saturday, June 13, 10:30 A.M. Cathedral of St. Raymond Joliet, Illinois Eucharistic Celebration
26th Annual Franciscan Autumn Feast Sunday, October 25, 3:00 P.M. Patrick C. Haley Mansion Joliet, Illinois Tickets: $100.00
For more information on these events, please contact the Joliet Franciscan Center at: (815) 725-8735, visit our website at www.jolietfranciscans.org, or Facebook at Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, Joliet, IL.
Sister Jeanne Bessette, OSF, is the President of De Paul Cristo Rey High School in Cincinnati. The school opened its doors in June 2011. At that point, Sister Jeanne had already been working for more than a year with a dedicated team of individuals to turn the vision into reality. It was recently announced that 100% of De Paul Cristo Rey’s first graduating class of seniors have all been accepted into college. Sister Jeanne will be with us to share the De Paul Cristo Rey story with us. We promise you, it will be one you will not want to miss. Advent Breakfast Wednesday, December 9, 2015, 7:00 AM Sister Marianne Saieg, OSF, returns as a speaker once again, this time to present an Advent reflection for us. Always an engaging and interesting speaker, Sister Marianne will have recently returned from Assisi at the time of the Advent Breakfast. She promises to bring the feelings of Assisi to her presentation. This is the third year we have offered an Advent Breakfast. We hope you will put this one on your calendar.
Sister Sharon Frederick and Janine Hicks at the Bluestem Earth Festival held at the University of St. Francis in 2014.
SPRING 2015
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At Journey’s End Irmã Luzia Aparecida Daniel, OSF January 1, 1934 - December 14, 2014
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n January 1, 1934, Luzia Aparecida Daniel was born in Santa Cruz das Palmeiras, São Paulo, Brazil. She was the only child of her loving parents, Avelino Daniel and Marian de Lima, immigrants from Italy who had arrived in Brazil the previous year. By the time she was four years old, Luzia had lost both of her parents to death. In early childhood, she also lost her eyesight due to a medical error. Orphaned and blind, Luzia became a resident at the Instituto de Cegos Padre Chico which was staffed by the French Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul. day, she had occasion to meet Sr. Odelia, and the rest of the story is history. Soon, after a time of exploration and discernment, Luzia requested to be received as a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate. Welcomed by the Congregation, Sister Luzia wholeheartedly gave herself over to keeping the promise she had made as a seven year old on the day of her First Communion: “Jesus, I want to belong only to you and to no one else.” Living out her Franciscan vocation to be sister to everyone she encountered, Sr. Luzia was a hope-filled visionary who called forth from each of us, her Sisters, with whom she generously and interdependently shared her “She was an inspiration life, the confidence and courage to be all that we could be. Lovingly and humorously, she to everyone she met. never missed an opportunity at our General People were in awe of Chapters to remind us that one does not need how she could be so to be able to see in order to be a “woman of happy even though she vision” like Mother Alfred.
Luzia thrived despite the challeng challenges and difficulties posed by the circumstances of her early life. Blessed with an unwavering confidence in God and an amazing resiliency, Luzia made the most of her other four senses, as she devoted herself to discovering and making meaning of the world around her. Gifted with a creative imagination, Luzia’s intuitions and perceptions provided her with a heightened sensitivity to everyone and everything that she encountered and she always had a song in her heart and a poem for every occasion. In the 1940s, the education of visually impaired students was conducted separately from other children and adolescents. Nevertheless, Luzia made the most of the educational opportunities that were available to her. Intellectually astute and manually agile, Luzia dominated the Braille method. As an enthusiastic, determined and compassionate advocate for selfreliance, independence and integration, Luzia knew from the “inside out” the importance of inclusion. She was determined in her efforts to secure and defend the fundamental human rights of persons with special needs.
could not see and how gratefully she accepted this handicap.”
A treasured teacher and mentor of those with special needs, an inspiring religious educator, a compassionate pastoral minister and an unforgettable conductor of “Aunt Lu’s Little Reflection given by Band and Chorus,” Sr. Luzia has left to countSr. Odelia Kloc, osf less children, women and men a legacy of love and service in the name of a loving God Experiencing the call to religious life in her for whom nothing is impossible. As we entrust our dear Sister youth and moved by the Holy Spirit to respond to this vocation, Luzia to the Lord whom she loved so much, we also celebrate Luzia courageously and confidently approached the Vincentian the marvelous things that God has accomplished in her and Sisters with whom she had shared her childhood and adolesthrough her. As Luzia now beholds the glory of the Lord for all cence. Unfortunately, at the time, neither the Church nor the eternity, we are reminded of the words of Helen Keller: “Death Congregation could imagine the admission of a person who is no more than passing from one room to another. But there’s a was blind into religious life. However, God’s designs for Luzia difference for me, you know. Because in that other room I shall would not be thwarted and God’s providence prevailed. In the be able to see.” 1970s, she left São Paulo and her cherished childhood friend, Alaide, to follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit, and set out Know that because of your journey with us, Luzia, we also have for Goiás. Responding to the invitation of Jaime Camara, to assist in the development of a School for the Blind on the outskirts been given new eyes with which to see the Light of Christ of the city of Goiânia, a few kilometers away from the Convento that continues to shine in our memory of you. We give São Damiano, God’s future plan for Luzia began to unfold. One thanks to God for the gift of our Sister Luzia.
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At Journey’s End Sister Anna Marie (M. Leonissa) Metz, OSF April 6, 1925 - February 22, 2015
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ister Anna Marie was born on April 6, 1925, to Leo and Louise (Thielen) Metz in Chicago, Illinois. Louise Metz died three days after giving birth to Anna, her first child. Anna’s godmother and aunt, Frances Jaskowiak (Metz) assisted her father in caring for Anna until he remarried. Leo and Marjorie (Barber) Metz had three more children: Frederick, Veronica and May. The Metz family were members of St. Bartholomew’s parish in Chicago where Anna was baptized and attended grade school. After graduating from Foreman High School, she worked a few years before asking to enter the postulancy of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate in 1948. She was received into the novitiate and was given the name Sister Mary Leonissa. Her father, Leo, was undoubtedly very proud of his daughter. Sister Leonissa made her first vows on August 12, 1951. In her request for vows she wrote: “I never realized what Community life really meant until I found such true companionship in my fellow Sisters.” She would continue to live life in community as she taught at St. Francis Xavier in Chicago, pronouncing her final profession in 1954.
In the intervening years, Sister Anna Marie taught first, second or third grade in schools in Illinois and Ohio. She never stopped trying to be of service and tutored,in a variety of venues, both children and adults. Wherever Sister Anna Marie was, whatever she did, she did it quietly with a ready smile. Her gentle demeanor was why her students in Alabama would run up after class and ask for a hug as a reward!
How would Sister Anna Marie describe herself? As a teacher. That appears to be Then came her call to what she what she did all her life. Annie gives us termed “the missionary life.” She a clue into her quiet, gentle self as she writes about this call more than twenwrites: “Because I am a dreamer with ty years later: “The first call came as a artistic leanings, I have always enjoyed commission in 1954, the day after my writing poetry. Simple verses that final vows. Mother Immaculate called rhyme have been a delightful pastime, my name last of all the Sisters receiveven before I entered religious life.” ing their obediences: ‘To St. Mary’s, Fairfield, Alabama, Sister Leonissa.’ During the afternoon of February 21, What a shock! And yet, what an Sister Anna Marie Metz was sitting honor, too.” Sister Anna Marie conquietly in her room. Although she tinued: “Now, more than twenty years regularly attended the 4 o’clock Mass, later, choosing my own response with she was not feeling well enough to go discernment, I have returned to the that day. During that Mass, Sister Anna South.” All together she would spend Sister Anna Marie Metz smiles as she receives her missioning statement from Sister Marie was peacefully invited to share in eight years in Alabama. Summing Teresinha M. Del’Acqua, the Congregtion’s the heavenly banquet that the Lord had up her experience she writes: “the prepared. No fanfare here on earth, but beauty of the landscape, the foothills Councilor for the Mission. heavenly rejoicing to be sure! Just like of Appalachia, and my love for these her -- quiet, private, not wanting any fuss. special children.” Her missionary heart was also touched by the two years she spent in Bayfield, Wisconsin, where she We give thanks to God for the gift of our Sister Anna Marie. grew to love beautiful Lake Superior as she taught remedial reading to the Indian children there.
SPRING 2015
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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 148 Joliet, IL
1433 Essington Road Joliet, IL 60435-2873
Mark your Calendars! 26th Annual Franciscan Autumn Feast October 25, 2015 Patrick C. Haley Mansion Joliet, Illinois Photos from the St. Pius X Celebration in Lombard, Illinois
Photos by: Sister Marianne Saieg, OSF
Sister Clarita Schumacher
Sisters Pauline Schutz and Alice Ann Harcharik
Sisters Brigid Jacobs, Mary Lou Marchetti, Pauline Schutz and Dolores Zemont.
Sisters Patricia Mitchell, Helen Vahling, Teresinha Del’ Acqua, and Margaret Rose Sczesniak.