Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate
confianรงa a Portuguese word meaning faith and trust.
Eleven Sisters Celebrate Jubilee SUMMER 2011
A welcome from Sister Mary Rose Dear Friends, By the time you read this, our 145th anniversary year will have ended. We celebrated throughout this special year in a variety of ways from our Summer Gathering in 2010, our exhibit at the Joliet Area Historical Museum, the 21st Annual Franciscan Autumn Feast and throughout the United States and Brazil in our local chapter groups. Our Annual Summer Gathering this year officially closes the celebration but begins our journey of the next 145 years. This is our Summer 2011 issue of Confiança. And it’s a very special one because it’s our Jubilee issue. Each year, there is no happier day for our Congregation than the day a Sister celebrates her Jubilee. We always seem to be blessed with beautiful weather on Jubilee day and this year was no exception as eleven Sisters celebrated their 50th, 60th and 75th Jubilees. Families, friends and many of our Sisters joined together at the Cathedral of St. Raymond in Joliet to honor and celebrate with our Jubilarians as they renewed their commitment to God and our Congregation. In 1871, the Joliet Franciscan Sisters began ministering to the people of St. Peter’s Parish in Mansfield, Ohio and 140 years later, we are still there today. The parish, celebrating its 150th year, was only ten years old when our Sisters arrived in Mansfield. We would go on to administer and teach in St. Peter’s Elementary and High Schools. Many former students are still members of the parish today and drop us notes sharing the impact the Sisters made on their lives as students and as parishioners. Sister Paula Bingert, herself a graduate of both St. Peter’s Elementary and High Schools, and Sister Bernard Marie Campbell, who has ministered in the school and parish for a total of 57 years, are still at St. Peter’s today. To those of you from Mansfield reading the story within about the Sisters at St. Peter’s, this is for you. In this issue, Sister Deborah Gaughan is sharing a reflection on her first year in the Novitiate. She recently returned from the Common Franciscan Novitiate in St. Louis and is now a second year Novice, living and
continued at the bottom of the next page
Confiança is a publication of the
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate 1433 Essington Road Joliet, Illinois 60435 Phone: (815)725-8735 www.jolietfranciscans.org
Editor - Nan Nagl Director of Mission Advancement Layout and Design - Lucy Sanchez Copy Editor - Sr. Carlene Howell, OSF
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.
Our 2011 Jubilarians
4
Novice’s Journey
10
Associate Corner
11
140 years at St. Peter ’s
12
2011 Honorees
16
Sisters in the News
17
Sponsored Institutions
18
Mark Your Calendars
19
Contributor - Sr. Lourdes Boyer, OSF On the Cover: Left Column - 60th Jubilarians: Sr. Helen Zulka, Sr. Ruth Anne Berry, Sr. Patricia Wagner, Sr. Anna Marie Metz. Middle Column - 75th Jubiliarians: Sr. Judith Kurry, Sr. Rita Greene. Right Column - 50th Jubilarians: Sr. Lois Prebil, Sr. Juanita Regine Ujcik, Sr. Ann Freiburg, Sr. Martha Kienzler and Sr. René Simonelic. © 2011, Sisters of St. Francis
2
confiança
Advancing the Mission Hello everyone! Thank you to all who supported our Retirement and Spring appeals with a gift to the Joliet Franciscan Sisters. Your kindness makes many things possible for our Sisters. Many of you know Sister Albert Marie Papesh who had the challenge of beginning the Congregation’s Development Department (now known as Mission Advancement) almost 22 years ago. In recent years she has served as the Director of Planned Giving. Sister Albert Marie is starting a new ministry at St. Clare Prayer House in Joliet. We thank her for her many years of raising funds, speaking to donors about planned gifts and being a voice for the Congregation. Joining us in the Office of Mission Advancement is Sister Suzanne Lesniewski. Sister Suzanne most recently served as a tutor and RCIA Team and Worship Commission Member at Christ the Servant Parish in Downers Grove, Illinois. On July 21st, Lucy Sanchez, Communications Director, and I drove to Mansfield, Ohio to visit with Sister Bernard Marie Campbell, Sister Paula Bingert and three parishioners of St. Peter’s parish and former students of the Sisters, Bob Kasper, Mike Santoro and Bob Schnug. The stories shared by all about the Joliet Franciscan Sisters who have served St. Peter’s in Mansfield since 1871 are welcome additions to a very rich history. It is clear that all three gentlemen have a deep and abiding respect for the Sisters and the impact made on their lives as students and as parishioners. Thank you for sharing your time and your memories.
The Canticle of the Future is the congregation’s planned giving society. We ask you to consider joining this group. In doing Nan Nagl so, you will help to Director of Mission Advancement secure the current and future ministries of the Sisters. For the list of Canticle of the Future members, please visit our website. You might consider remembering the Sisters in your will or as a beneficiary of either an insurance policy or an IRA. Please contact the Mission Advancement office at 815725-8735 for more information on planned giving. Finally, I want to say thank you to all of you who remember the Sisters in some way. You make a difference not only in their lives, but also in the lives of those to whom they minister. I ask that you continue your financial support this year in whatever way you can. You are in the prayers of all of the Sisters, in both the United States and Brazil. Please also keep them in yours. Until next time, enjoy the miracles that each new day brings.
ministering with some of our Sisters at Assumption B.V.M. parish in Chicago. Sister Deborah is a delight with an infectious smile. In her reflection, you will learn how her time in the Novitiate made an already special person even more so. It’s summer, a time for vacations and outdoor activities with family and friends. We remember you in prayer and hope that the balance of your summer is filled with good, but safe times. I want to thank you for all that you do for the Sisters by way of spiritual and financial support and ask that God bless you and yours. and all g good, Peace an
Sister Mary Rose Lieb, osf President and General Superior
Summer 2011
3
Congratulations to our 2011 Jubilarians On June 18, 2011, we honored eleven Sisters celebrating their Jubilee during Mass at the Cathedral of St. Raymond in Joliet. Through their years of ministry, these remarkable Sisters have served in schools, parishes, social service agencies, dioceses, and in countless other ministries. Each Sister is a unique individual who serves God and His people in whatever way she is called. We are grateful for their presence in our lives and ask God’s richest blessings on them in their Jubilee year. Read on to learn about our 2011 Jubilarians. More information about each Jubilarian is available on our website at: www. jolietfranciscans.org.
Our 75thJubilarians Sister Judith Kurry Sister M. Judith Kurry, a native of Chicago, Illinois, is the eldest daughter born to the late John and Mary Kurry. Her brothers Michael, Raymond, Joseph, Al, Lawrence and Robert, and her sister, Susan, are all deceased. Sister Judith attended SS Peter and Paul Grade School in Chicago and graduated from St. Francis Academy in Joliet, Illinois. She received her B.A. and M.A. in Franciscan Studies from the College of St. Francis (now University) in Joliet.
Sister Rita Greene Sister Mary Rita Greene was born in Columbus, Ohio to the late Helen and Michael Greene. She has four brothers: Michael, James, Jerome and Joseph (all deceased). She also has five sisters: Helene Terrill (Tulsa, Oklahoma), Lydia Greene and Patricia Sorenson (both of Columbus) and Luella Trumball (deceased). Sister Rita attended St. John the Evangelist Grade School and Holy Rosary Grade and High Schools in Columbus. She graduated from St. Francis Academy in Joliet, Illinois and then attended the College of St. Francis where she earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree. Sister Rita earned her
4
confiança
From 1938 to 1973 Sister Judith ministered in the field of education at various grade schools in Illinois and Ohio. In 1973 she became secretary for the Catholic Schools Office in Joliet for one year, returning to the classroom in 1974. From 1977 until 2010 she ministered as a teacher aide at the Franciscan Learning Center in Joliet. Sister Judith now resides at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home where she serves as a Communion Minister and does Community Service. When asked about her ministry in the field of education these seventy plus years, Sister Judith stated that she enjoyed teaching, but most especially her last thirty years at the Franciscan Learning Center. The people connected to that ministry have been very supportive. She especially enjoyed the “freshness” that young children bring to each day. Master of Fine Arts Degree from Catholic University in Washington, D.C. and then went on to do postgraduate work at the Art Institute of Chicago, Siena Heights College and the University of Florence in Italy. Sister Rita began her teaching ministry in 1940 at St. Bernard School in Joliet where she taught students in grades kindergarten through second grade. She also taught kindergarten and art in all the grades at Sacred Heart School in Hubbard Woods, Illinois for ten years. From 1954 until 1976 she was a faculty member at the College of St. Francis, where she taught art. In 1976 Sister Rita went to Guam to teach art in various high schools. She returned to the United States in 1979 and taught art at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Romeoville, Illinois. In 1981 she returned to Guam where she ministered for twenty-one more years at Father Duenas Memorial High School in Agana, Guam. In 2002 Sister Rita became a resident of Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home where she continues to minister in Community Service to her sisters and other residents.
Our 60thJubilarians Sister Helen Zulka Sister Helen Zulka was born in Toledo, Ohio to the late John and Helen Zulka. Her two brothers, John and Edward, are both deceased. Sister Helen attended St. Hedwig Grade School in Toledo, Ohio. After completing her high school education at Central Catholic High School in Toledo, Sister Helen attended the College of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois. She completed her bachelor’s degree there after entering the Sisters of St. Francis in 1948. She later studied at the University of Michigan, St. Mary of the Woods in Terre Haute, Indiana; Marian College in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida and the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana.
Sister Ruth Anne Berry Sister Ruth Berry, a native of Shelby Ohio, is the daughter of the late Norma and Dorwin Berry. Her sister, Jeanne Marie, continues to reside in Shelby. Her brothers now reside in other areas: William in South Bend, IN; James in Palm Springs, CA; and Richard in Columbus, OH. Her brother Dorwin is deceased.
Sister Helen began her teaching ministry at St. Peter Grade School in Mansfield, Ohio. After four years in elementary education, she taught home economics and art in high schools in Ohio and Illinois. She completed her 20 year ministry in secondary education at Cardinal Gibbons High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Since 1976 Sister Helen has ministered in parishes in Illinois, Indiana and Ohio as a pastoral minister, director of religious education, RCIA teacher and visitor to the elderly. She served as Pastoral Associate at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Fort Wayne, Indiana from 1980 to 1986. From 1986 to 1993 she ministered at St. Monica Parish in Mishawaka, Indiana. After completing CPE training she ministered as a hospice worker, bereavement coordinator and volunteer at Bryan Nursing Home in Bryan, Ohio from 1995 to 2004. Sister Helen currently resides in a retired independent community in Plainfield, Illinois, ministers as a hospice greeter and is involved in a mission project for the Sisters of St. Francis’ Brazil Missions as Stamp Coordinator. She is also a member of the Philatelic Club of Joliet.
In 1963 she began her ministry in Brazil as one of the four founding members of the Congregation, serving in Santa Helena de Goiás, Brazil. Since that time, she has ministered mainly in central Brazil as musician, teacher, pastoral minister, formation director, regional coordinator of the Sisters of St. Francis in Brazil and director of San Damiano School. Presently Sister Ruth lives in Santa Helena de Goiás and ministers in the parish as a pastoral minister, serving as a home visitor and participant in the Children’s Pastoral Care Center in the area. She meets with the members of the Legion of Mary in the parish.
Sister Ruth attended Most Pure Heart of Mary School in Shelby. She graduated from St. Francis Academy in Joliet, Illinois. She received her B.A. in Music from the College of St. Francis (now University) in Joliet. In Brazil she attended courses for Intensive Portuguese Language and Culture, as well as Franciscan Spirituality and Pastoral Studies for Latin America. Sister Ruth spent her first twelve years in elementary education with an emphasis on music. She taught grades 2, 3 and 4 at St. Ann in Lansing, Illinois from 1951 to 1956. She also taught music and was the parish organist. From 1956 to 1959 she taught grades 5, 6 and 7 and was parish organist at St. Paul the Apostle in Joliet, IL. From 1960 to 1963 she served as music teacher and parish organist at St. John the Baptist Parish in Joliet.
Celebrating their 75th Jubilee are from left: Sisters Rita Greene and Judith Kurry.
Summer 2011
5
Our 60thJubilarians (continued) Sister Patricia Wagner Sister Patricia Wagner is the only child born to Rose and Frank Wagner of Chicago, Illinois. She attended St. Pascal Grade School in Chicago and graduated from St. Francis Academy, in Joliet, Illinois. She received her B.A. in Music from the College of St. Francis in Joliet, and received an M.A. in Education (Administration/ Supervision) from DePaul University in Chicago. She did further studies in the field of education at George Peabody College in Nashville, Tennessee. Sister Patricia began her ministry in education and music at St. Bernard School in Joliet in 1951. Over the next seventeen years she taught the middle and junior high classes in schools in Illinois and Ohio along with teaching music and serving as the parish organist. From 1962 to 1968, she ministered at St. Jude Parish in Warrensville Heights, Ohio, as the superior/principal/organist and
Sister Anna Marie Metz Sister Anna Marie Metz, a native of Chicago, Illinois, is one of four children born to Louise and Leo Metz. She has one brother, Frederick, residing in Wheeling, Illinois, and two sisters, Meronic Buetow and Mary Bernacchi, both residing in the Chicago area.
teacher of 8th grade. After serving on the faculty of the Education Department at the College of St. Francis for ten years, Sister Patricia ministered at Divine Savior Parish in Norridge, Illinois, for fifteen years as director in religious education, pastoral minister and director in family life. In 1981 she served as teacher, administrator and therapist at FranCenter in Darien, Illinois. From 1993 to 1995 she taught in the Center for Adult Basic Education at Joliet Junior College. After serving as coordinator to the Sisters at St. Francis Convent and residential manager at St. Elizabeth Home in Joliet, she returned to FranCenter in Darien, Illinois, as Support Service Administrator. Currently Sister Patricia resides at Guardian Angel Home where she ministers in Community Service to the Sisters residing there and in special Prayer Ministry for the Sisters of the Congregation and the needs of the Church. When asked about her Jubilee celebration, Sister Patricia remarked, “I celebrate this anniversary with gratitude to my religious community, my family and friends and the hundreds of faithful with whom I have worked and ministered. With all these I share this anniversary and all the blessings and prayers I receive. We continue to walk together in faith.”
a remedial reading teacher at Holy Family School in Bayfield, Wisconsin. From 1985 until 1987 she did volunteer work in the Will County Jail Library and in 1987 became a tutor in the ESL program at the Spanish Center in Joliet. Currently, Sister Anna Marie resides at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home where she ministers to the residents in the area of Community Service and shares her creative talents in art and poetry.
Sister Anna Marie attended St. Bartholomew Grade School and Foreman High School before entering the Sisters of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois. She received her B.A. from the College of St. Francis (now University) in Joliet. In 1951 Sister Anna Marie began her ministry of education in the primary grades at St. Francis Xavier School in Chicago. In 1954 she moved to St. Mary School in Fairfield, Alabama, to teach in grades 2 and 3. While spending only three years there, St. Mary’s became a place that was very dear to her heart. In 1977 she returned to St. Mary’s to teach in Grade 2 for five years. Sister Anna Marie also taught in various schools in Illinois, Ohio and Wisconsin, including six years in Mansfield, Ohio, and three years in Shelby, Ohio. In 1982 she became
6
confiança
Celebrating their 60th Jubilee are (Standing) Sisters Helen Zulka and Ruth Anne Berry. (Sitting) Sisters Anna Marie Metz and Patricia Wagner.
Our 50thJubilarians Sister Lois Prebil Lois Prebil, a native of Chicago, IL, is the daughter of the late Margaret and Anton Prebil. Her brother Anthony (Sheri) resides in Naperville, IL, her sister Kathleen Monahan (Tim) in Oak Park, IL, and her sister Rose Kasarda (Jim) in Schaumburg, IL. Lois Prebil attended St. Procopius Grade School and graduated from St. Francis de Sales High School, both in Chicago. She received her B.A. in Mathematics at the College of St. Francis (now University) in Joliet, and her M.A. in Mathematics from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana. She received a Master of Science in Organization Development from Loyola University
Sister Juanita Regine Ujcik Sister Juanita is the daughter of Mary and the late Stanley Ujcik. She was born in Chicago and attended St. John Bosco School. She moved to Lemont, Illinois, where she attended St. Alphonsus School from grades 2 through 8. She received her high school education at St. Francis Academy, Joliet; a B.A. in Physics and Chemistry from the College of St. Francis and an M.S. in Natural Science at Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. She did further studies at Ohio State University, Bowling Green State and the University of Toledo.
in Chicago. She also received Certification in Secondary Administration from Northern Illinois University. Lois Prebil’s present ministries are racial justice ministry with the Office for Racial Justice of the Archdiocese of Chicago; organization development consulting, primarily with churches, schools and religious congregations, and Local Coordinator for the Sisters of St. Francis. Lois has served in the ministry of education as a teacher at Bishop Ready High School in Columbus, Ohio and St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Louisville, Ohio, and as teacher, assistant principal and principal at St. Francis Academy in Joliet. She ministered as principal of St. Mary Cathedral High School in Saginaw, Michigan and at Regina High School in Iowa City, Iowa. She served in the administration of the Sisters of St. Francis as Councilor Coordinator before beginning a ministry as Social Care Coordinator for St. James Parish in Chicago.
Sister Juanita’s ministry has revolved around three areas: Education, Ministry to the Incarcerated and presently as Vocation Minister for the Sisters of St. Francis. Sister Juanita taught in elementary education for one year at St. John the Baptist Parish in Joliet. She then spent twenty years in secondary education as a teacher of mathematics, chemistry and physics at St. Mary High School, Columbus, Ohio; St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Louisville, Ohio; and Robinson Junior High and Scott Public High School in Toledo, Ohio. In 1984, while teaching as an adjunct professor at Lewis University, she began her ministry to the incarcerated by teaching at the Center for Correctional Concerns in Joliet, Illinois. In 1986 she was the founder of JUST (Justice, Understanding, Service, Teaching) of DuPage. She returned to the Center of Correctional Concerns as director in 1988, a position she held until June, 2009. Presently Sister Juanita ministers to the young women who are seeking to serve Christ in Religious Life. Commenting on her fifty years of service to the Church Sister Juanita says, “I have found that I enjoy both variety and challenges in my life, my work and my other interests. I have worked on several serious issues of our times and have been glad to offer some small forms of assistance in those areas. I am grateful to the Sisters of St. Francis for the encouragement and freedom to accept new challenges and work in a variety of ministries and volunteer activities.” Celebrating their 50th Jubilee are: (Standing) Sisters Lois Prebil, Juanita Regine Ujcik, René Simonelic. (Sitting) Sisters Martha Kienzler and Ann Freiburg.
Summer 2011
7
Our 50thJubilarians (continued) Sister Ann Freiburg Sister Ann Freiburg is a native of Lombard, Illinois, the daughter of Richard and Pauline Freiburg and one of five children. One sister, Elizabeth Burke, lives in St. Peter, Minnesota; another, Mary Wolff, in Downers Grove, Illinois; and the youngest, Marjorie Wiemels and brother-in-law Gene, in University Heights, Ohio. Her brother Michael and sister-in-law Angela live in Trumbull, Connecticut. Sister Ann attended Sacred Heart School in Lombard, Illinois, Immaculate Conception High School in Elmhurst, Illinois, and the College of St. Francis (now University), where she earned a B.A. degree. Further education included an M.A. in literature from the University of Illinois and a Certificate in Religious Formation from Aquinas Institute of Theology in Dubuque, Iowa. After college, she taught in the Los Angeles public school system for several years before joining the Joliet Franciscan Sisters in 1959. She continued her teaching career at Bishop
Sister Martha Kienzler Sister Martha Kienzler is a native of Springfield, Illinois. She is one of four children born to the late George and Clementine Kienzler. Her sister, Dolores Pellman, lives in Springfield. Her brother George and her sister Mary Schafer are deceased. Sister Martha attended SS Peter and Paul Grade School and Ursuline Academy in Springfield. She received an Associate’s Degree from Springfield Junior College (now Benedictine) and a B.A. and M.A. in Theology from the College of St. Francis (now University) in Joliet, Illinois. She received a Master’s in Social Work from the University of St. Louis in St. Louis, Missouri. After ministering in elementary education for two years, Sister Martha served as a case worker for Catholic Charities in Toledo, Ohio, for ten years. From 1973 to 1975 she served
8
confiança
Ready High School in Columbus, Ohio, and at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Canton, Ohio, before coming back to Joliet to join the faculty at the College of St. Francis. After a sabbatical year at Aquinas Institute, Sister Ann served as Director of Initial Formation and Novice Director for the Joliet Franciscans. While in this position, she coordinated the Intercommunity Novitiate Program for the Chicago area and served on the National Board of the Religious Formation Conference. Following her years in formation work, she became Director of Adult Education at St. Walter Church in Roselle, Illinois. In her eighth year of ministry at St. Walter’s, at the time of her mother’s illness and death, she became familiar with the hospice movement and felt called to this ministry. She has served as both Director of Bereavement Services and Chaplain at CNS Hospice in DuPage County. Her interests include reading; music, especially sacred, choral, and classical; environmental concerns; interreligious dialogue; the integration of science and spirituality; body/mind/spirit approaches to holistic health and spirituality; and issues of death and dying.
as director of Social Services at Guardian Angel Home, Joliet, IL. From 1975 to 1981 she ministered in Defiance, Ohio, as Director of Catholic Social Services. From 1981 to 1984 Sister Martha ministered as Director of Initial Formation for the Sisters of St. Francis. In 1984 Sister Martha became pastoral minister at Sacred Heart Parish in Muskegon Heights, Michigan, and in 1989 she returned to Joliet where she ministered as Director of Social Services at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home. From 1996 until 2008 she was pastoral associate at Immaculate Conception Parish in Morris, Illinois. Presently Sister Martha ministers as sacristan for the Pastoral Care Department at Our Lady of Angels. Commenting on her life as a Joliet Franciscan, Sister Martha states that “Franciscan religious life is, for me, a vowed commitment to live the Gospel Life in the spirit of Francis and Clare. It is living the Good News that God is love overflowing; that all creation is good; that Jesus Christ is the Incarnation of that love which shows us how to return God’s love. Franciscan religious life projects the ‘reign of God’ as here and now through the sacramental life of the Church and service to one another.”
Our 50thJubilarians (continued) Sister René Simonelic Sister René Simonelic, a native of Chicago, Illinois, is the daughter of the late John and Alice Simonelic and sister of Colette (Ted) Wysocki of Hot Springs, Arizona. Sister René was educated at Fordham University, New York, where she received a Bachelor of Education in 1965. She studied simultaneously at Manhattanville’s St. Pius X School to complete a minor in Social Studies and Music. She received a Certificate of Church Music and Liturgy at St. Joseph College, Rensselaer, Indiana. In 1985, she received a Master of Science Degree in Music at Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana, majoring in voice and choral conducting. She completed a Master of Arts in Liturgical Studies at St. John’s University, Collegeville, Minnesota in 1990. In 2005, she was recognized by the Northwestern Kellogg School of Management as a Kellogg Executive Scholar and was awarded a certificate in nonprofit management.
Sister René taught music and religious education at elementary and secondary schools in Chicago and Panama City, Florida. She was chair of the Fine Arts department at Resurrection High School, Chicago, from 1969 to 1978 and was director of music programs there from 1980 to 1987. From 1987 to 1991 Sister René was director of Music Ministries at St. Symphorosa Parish, Chicago. From 1991 to 1993 she was the director of the Office for Worship in St. Cloud, Minnesota. From 1993 to 1995 she was director of worship at Holy Angels Parish in Aurora, IL, and then director of worship for the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. In 1997 she began her ministry as Liturgical Consultant and then director of liturgy for the Diocese of Columbus, Ohio. She became director of development for the Sisters of St. Francis in 2004. She presently ministers as director of general programming for the Office of Divine Worship for the Archdiocese of Chicago. Sister René is a renowned soprano, having sung at Carnegie Hall with the New York Pops Orchestra in December, 1997, and again in April, 2001, with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. Currently, she enjoys singing with the St. Cletus Chancel Choir, Musichorale, and the Moraine Valley Chorale.
Reflections Following our Sister Classmates’ Jubilee By: Nancy Davis I slid into my patio lounge chair, kicked off my sandals, hoping to slip between the sheets of humidity and catch the slight breeze that seemed to be moving the trees. It was a long day and I felt the emotional exhaustion of its events. I picked up a novel, brushed away a lightning bug coming toward me and then saw it, my upper arm! There it was, fully exposed from the sleeveless shirt I was wearing, it was sagging like a lion’s womb after giving birth to her cub. I stared at it as a rush of the weekend’s events came flooding back. Forty years had passed since I had seen some of my sister classmates. I was an older woman now; my arms told me so. Much of life has passed by. There were so many stories as woman by woman told us what she had done when she left the convent—one as early as 1961 and others as late as 1972. Other stories came from fellow classmates who couldn’t make the gathering. We were celebrating 50 years of service for our classmates who sustained the journey and rightly and justly have born the name “Sister” after all of these years: Lois Prebil, Juanita Ujcik, Ann Freiburg, Martha Kienzler, and Renéé Simonelic. Marriages and divorces, sadness and joy, children and grandchildren, and, for one of us, great grand-
children! Illnesses—creeping for some, constant for others. Each woman lived fully, barely coping and other times leaping with delight through the evolution of her life. Death for three of us: Ruth Ann Pals, Ann Sharp and Jude Rueten. Some not able to be found. We shared tears of loss and tears for being found. Many of us stayed or volleyed in and out of the educational field. Most of us found identity in volunteering, giving service in the church or other ministerial endeavors. Our Franciscan charism, no matter what happened to us, seemed to linger in the shadows, guiding us, comforting us, helping us to serve and to live humbly and authentically. On this summer weekend of June 18, 2011, we returned to our Franciscan roots, and it was good. We will continue life’s journey, knowing we have a sisterhood always present to us. I slipped out of the patio chair, anxious to capture my thoughts at the computer. It was a little low and I struggled, losing a moment of balance. Ah, yes, I am in my 70’s but so are my classmates, and you know, that’s okay.
Summer 2011
9
The Journey of a First Year Novice By: Sr. Deborah Gaughan Every journey consists of multiple steps, some big, some small, and some giant steps of faith. On August 8, 2010, I took a giant step of faith as I began my novitiate. When you become a novice, not much information is provided regarding what the journey will entail. You are encouraged to trust, to walk in faith and take it moment by moment. I thought this will be ok, I know how to do this. Approximately a week after I became a novice, I moved to St. Louis, MO, to join the Common Franciscan Novitiate. While in St. Louis, I knew I would be attending various classes and workshops that were to help me learn and prepare for religious life. I began an intense schedule of praying, attending classes/workshops, ministry and contemplation. I learned so much as we covered several topics, history of religious life, vows, Third Order Rule, Scripture, communication, multiculturalism, etc. I also had the opportunity to do ministry at the Crisis Nursery, where I was blessed with the good fortune of working with children at risk and in need. The nursery provides short term (24-72 hours) residential care for children from birth to age 12 who need a safe place to stay. There are various reasons why the children may need care; for example, at risk for abuse, homelessness, or because parents are looking for employment, etc. Volunteering at the nursery had its struggles – it was hard to see children in pain and struggling at such early ages. However, I learned as long as I loved them as much as I could when I was there, prayed for them when I was not there and trusted that God was with them – the struggles then became blessings. I will never forget the children I was able to love, teach and spend time with. Another blessing of being in St. Louis was the community of sisters that I lived with. I became part of a class of novices instead of being by myself. It was very beneficial to have friends/peers experiencing and growing in the same way I was. Sr. Amy (St. Louis), Sr. Cheryl (New York), and Sr. Cristina (Frankfort) and I quickly became friends and were a support for each other. I was also able to participate and become friends with a larger community – “the inter-community.” The inter-community consisted of nineteen novices from six communities – OMI’s, Alexian Brothers, Pallottines, Adorers of the Precious Blood, Dominicans and Franciscans. Novitiate was and continues to be hard work; however, we also had time for fun. We were able to experience many St. Louis favorites. For example, we went to Ted
10
confiança
Drewes, Crown Candy, Grant’s Park, visited the Arch and Mississippi River. And yes, I even experienced the St. Louis tornadoes, as one went right through our neighborhood on Good Friday. We were spared in the novitiate since the only damage was to a fence and there were Sister Deborah visited the “Women & some downed trees; Spirit” Exhibit during a fieldtrip with her however, the devasta- novitiate community. tion I saw was incredible, when we went out to see what happened in the city. I hope I never have to see that again! All of what I learned and experienced definitely taught me about religious life, and I learned more than I had ever expected. However, what I learned was that I really did not know much of what it means to trust, walk by faith and to take it moment by moment. I finally learned exactly what I was encouraged to do, when I entered the novitiate. I learned that God has taught me how to experience these values with not only my head, but also with my heart. My relationship with God and my spirituality has become deeper and richer in more ways than I could have ever imagined. God helped me to learn and accept myself, helped me with my relationships and with my community, has deepened the bonds of family and friends, and has helped intensify my vocation. I now know why very little information was provided to me as I entered novitiate; I needed to trust God, and walk in faith, and to take it moment by moment. God taught me everything that I needed to learn. As far as preparing me for religious life, I have to say that learning these three values with my heart have prepared me for life, especially religious life. I now have to remember to embrace and live these three values every day. I am already looking forward to my second year of novitiate where I will have the opportunity to travel and visit with different sisters to learn more about them, their ministries, and our history. At the same time, I look forward to my relationship with God to continue to grow and expand in ways that I am not even aware of yet.
Associates Corner By: Janine Hicks, Assistant Director of Associates As a supporter of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, you have probably heard about “Associates.” But do you really know who they are or what an associate really is? An associate is a person, committed to Christ, who feels called to share in the spirituality, mission and vision of the Sisters without becoming a vowed member of the community. Here are some interesting details about the associate program: there are presently 136 associates; 114 in the U.S. (spanning 14 States) and 22 in Brazil. Quite a number! The first associate was Meg Guider in 1974, and who later became Sister Meg Guider. She is currently a member of the Central Administration and a renowned Franciscan scholar. However, most of our associates do not take the vowed life as a sister; rather, they remain committed as single or married persons with lives filled with families, work, volunteering and a strong connection to the Franciscan way of life modeled by the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate.
Top: Lynne Sparks and Larry Burich. Bottom: Sr. Rose Marie Surwilo, Sr. MJ Griffin, Connie Blackwell, Marilyn McGowan, Eileen Hartke and Sr. Sandra Sudkamp. These are the new associates for 2011 along with their companion Sisters.
Janine Hicks is the Director of Institutional Effectiveness at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, IL. She became an Associate in 2004.
Associates may work in their own parishes or may even travel to other cities and countries, giving of their time and treasures, to make this world a better place. There are many opportunities to connect with the sisters and other associates, both locally or by email, phone and even Skype! “The Associate/Companion relationship enlarged the mission/ministry of our Congregation” states Sr. Rose Marie Surwilo. Those who are interested in pursuing this type of relationship need to take time, often over several months, to discern what this commitment really means and if they are ready to begin this journey. They mostly do this through discussions with their companion sister. During the Fall of each year, the associates gather for a one-day retreat. However, not all associates can make these gatherings as many are spread throughout the country. Those who can come continue to pray for those who cannot, knowing that they are continuing the ministry of the sisters in their own way.
Each Spring, the associates gather for a weekend in Joliet to learn from speakers and to spend time with each other. They also share time in prayer as well as in celebration. It is also a time to meet the new associates and to join in witnessing their commitment as they embark on the Franciscan journey. What did one of our associates say about this annual event? “Great to hear from so many talented people afire with Franciscan spirit!” During this past Associate Weekend, many spoke of their personal experience with prayer, mission and ministry. Associate Harriet O’Malley enjoyed the sharing and caring of the associates and sisters while Sister Leomarie Luecke especially liked the ministry sharing. She added, “We have a wealth of experience in our associates.” If you are interested in learning about the associate program, please contact Sister Sharon Frederick at sfrederick@stfrancis.edu or visit our website at: http://www.jolietfranciscans.org/become-an-associate for more information.
(Center) Sister Verene Girmscheid watches as Janine Hicks (right) pins a corsage on associate Rosemary Myers (left), during the reception ceremony in 2010.
Summer 2011
11
The Friendship of 140 Years: The Joliet Franciscan Sisters and St. Peter’s Parish, Mansfield, Ohio By: Nan Nagl If you are a parishioner or former student of St. Peter’s in Mansfield, Ohio, you know there’s a special bond between the parish and the Joliet Franciscan Sisters. So if you don’t mind, I’d like to let others in on part of what makes this bond so special. On July 21st, Lucy Sanchez, Communications Director, and I traveled from Joliet to Mansfield to meet with Sister Bernard Marie Campbell, Sister Paula Bingert and three of St. Peter’s parishioners who are former students and longtime friends of the Sisters: Bob Kasper, Mike Santoro and Bob Schnug. St. Peter’s school began in 1868, staffed by three women and a man. The parish was growing, which meant that enrollment in the school was also growing. To assist with the increasing student population, two Joliet Franciscan Sisters arrived by train in Mansfield on August 28, 1871. Thus began 140 years of friendship and service to the people of St. Peter’s.
Front: Bob Kasper and Bob Schnug. Behind: Sisters Bernard Marie Campbell, Sister Paula Bingert and Mike Santoro.
The first two Sisters were Sister Ignatius Baker, age 25, and Sister Lucia Raub, age 18. Sister Lucia would go on to become the Congregation’s General Superior from 1887 – 1893. She would later be the first superior of Guardian Angel Home when it was founded in 1897. She was known as the “Friend of the Children.” Sister Paula, recently retired Librarian of St. Peter’s Elementary School and the parish’s resident historian, shares that in those early days, the Sisters paid a rent of $14.00 a month. But she often wonders about what their first days in Mansfield were really like. Did someone meet them at the train station? Were there curtains hanging in the house they would use as a convent when they arrived?
Sister Paula spends more time in the Heritage Room since she retired from her library work.
Sister Paula is a Mansfield native and attended both St. Peter’s Elementary and High Schools. As a Joliet Franciscan, she has served the school and parish for 35 years. She celebrated her 60th Jubilee as a Joliet Franciscan in 2010. Although now retired from her library work, she is still busy attending to the Heritage Room located in St. Peter’s High School. In 1994, the parish was 150 years old. The history of the first 100 years had been written in 1944. Sister Paula took on the task of adding the next 50 years to that book. She also collects “Boxtops for Education” with proceeds going to the library and school. From Campbell’s UPC labels, she is able to supply some of the sports equipment such as balls, bats, etc. used by the students of both schools. In 2009, the library at St. Peter’s Elementary School was renamed for Sister Paula in recognition of her many years serving as the school’s librarian. Students described her as “patient, kind and helpful.”
Sister Bernard Marie, although not originally from Mansfield, has spent a total of 57 years in service to St. Peter’s – the longest of any of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters. She spent many years teaching algebra, geometry, history, religion, chemistry, physics and science at St. Peter’s High School. In fact, in 2008 the science wing was named in her honor. Since 1996, Sister Bernard Marie has worked in the Development department of the par-
12
confiança
ish with two former students – Cathy Stout and Joan Gemzer. A capital campaign was about to begin. With Sister Bernard Marie’s many years in the parish and her relationships with the parishioners, it was a natural fit to begin fundraising. Sister Bernard Marie attends many of the wakes and funerals, as well as weddings of St. Peter’s parishioners. At the annual Birthday Bash for parishioners at least 75 years of age, she can be found moving from table to table, greeting guests, having her photo taken with birthday celebrants and making them feel special. Among her many accomplishments is being a University of Notre Dame alumna. In 1999, both Sisters Bernard Marie and Paula were inducted into the St. Peter’s Hall of Fame.
Standing in front of the Science Wing named in her honor at St. Peter School is Sister Bernard Marie Campbell, OSF.
But they are just two of 401 Sisters who served St. Peter’s since 1871. Collectively, the Joliet Franciscan Sisters have served a total of 1,857 years. Forty-five parishioners were members of the congregation. Some have since died, some left religious life along the way, and the rest, including Sister Paula, are still in ministry today. Sister Margaret Noser serves in parish ministry in Brazil; Sister Teresa Noser ministers in healthcare in the Joliet area; Sister Kathleen Rossman ministers at the University of Dayton; Sister Lauren Wiegman serves as a private tutor in Worthington, Ohio; and Sisters Patricia Vaira, Grace Straub and Tecla Snyder all live at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home in Joliet where they are involved in Community Service. Times were rarely easy for the Sisters. At one point they were living in two different buildings. A house t called “House of Seven Gables,” served as the convent c from 1904 – 1958. As the number of Sisters grew, the f younger members lived in a dormitory above the grade y school from 1927 – 1958. This was not an ideal situation s as a many facilities were in the “House” meaning that Sisters living over the school had to walk to the house, S regardless of the weather. r But B they also made the best of the situation and had some fun with it along the way. Notes kept on an index s card from the time period tell us: c The “House of Seven Gables.” The Sisters lived in this convent until it was torn down in 1958. They then moved into the top floors of the High School, so they could all live together in community.
“When the sisters still lived in the old convent, dubbed House of Seven Gables” the youngest twelve slept in a dorm on the top floor of the grade school. Closet space was at a premium so using a bit of Franciscan ingenuity the Sisters learned to adapt. First, the local undertaker furnished them with a number of coffin boxes. Standing upright, they made excellent closets and lying flat made good storage for bed linens and blankets. The story goes that one chill fall evening a few of the sisters who had been at St. Pete’s for some years were in the dorm waiting for a newcomer to climb the 72 stairs. Quickly, one of the sisters stretched out in the blanket box and covered herself under all the blankets. It was suggested to the new sister that she get a blanket from the ‘box’. You can well imagine what happened when she lifted the “lid.”
Summer 2011
13
The Sisters were good neighbors. While living at the “House,” their neighbor, Mary Gosser, was getting married. While Mary was at the church for her wedding, the Sisters were at her house preparing the wedding breakfast for the new Mr. & Mrs. Kinton. In 1958, the Sisters – 33 of them – moved into permanent living quarters on the 3rd and 4th floors of the high school. Today Sisters Paula and Bernard Marie live on a portion of the 3rd floor. The school and parish use the balance of the 3rd and 4th floors. Bob Kasper is one of eleven children - “the baby boy” – as he called himself. He shares that the Sisters were good to him. He remembers a reprimand from Sister Alban for doing poorly in bible history. Ask him if he can name all of his teachers, and the names trip off his tongue easily. One Sister in particular was very special to him – Sister Rita Marie, his 9th grade teacher. Bob says she brought “a spark” to his life. She remained his friend for the rest of her life, corresponding for many years including the years that Bob was in military service. He received a note from her two weeks before she died at age 100 in 2005. As he talks about her, you can sense the admiration he still has for Sister Rita Marie.
Above from left: Sister Rosella and Sister Rita Marie in 1941. Left: Sister Rita Marie Grejczik, celebrating her Diamond Jubilee in 1987.
Bob tells a story about climbing up the church’s steeple and catching pigeons with Sisters Janice and Evelyn and two of his friends. The pigeons would later become dinner. He also remembers spending a summer painting the rooms in the convent to pay off his book bill. Mike Santoro also attended both St. Peter’s Elementary and High Schools and has positive memories of the Sisters as his teachers and mentors. Mike met his wife while they were in grade school. Although she did not attend St. Peter’s as a young girl, their four children did. Mike remembers Sister Teresita who taught him to be an altar server. And as his family lived close to the church, he remembers when she would call his house asking him to come to the church to serve Mass at a moment’s notice. He also expresses his admiration for Sister Joseph Clare who helped him with public speaking – training he still draws on today. Mike’s mother worked for a M Mansfi eld store and would bring M shirt boxes from the stores that s were given to the Sisters to store w things. He wonders how 30 Sist ters, all living in the same house, t could get along so well. c
Of all the sisters pictured here in 1950, only Sister Bernard Marie Campbell still resides at St. Peter’s Parish in Mansfield, Ohio.
14
confiança
Bob B Schnug is a classmate of Sister Paula and Bob Kasper. Bob S att a ended St. Peter’s Elementary and a High School, was married at St. S Peter’s Church and his three sons also attended St. Peter’s. He s remembers having his pocket r watch taken away during class w one o day. He was not supposed to have it out. It was sent home with h his h sister. His mother, who was a convert to the Catholic faith and c loved the Sisters, was not happy l with Bob that day.
Like Mike, Bob also served Mass at St. Peter’s. He says he knew that when the phone rang during dinner, it would be one of the Sisters asking him to come to church to serve Mass. He would think to himself, “There goes the ball game.” Many of us have some singular memories of grade school or high school that stay with us. One of Bob’s involves Sister Merwyn. It seems Sister Merwyn was quite a harmonica player. One day in class, she brought her harmonica with her and played the National Anthem from the back of the classroom, telling her students not to look at her. He also remembers Sister Bennett who would read one chapter of “Brass Knuckles” every Friday afternoon if the class had been good during the week. It was a special treat and they all looked forward to hearing Sister read the next chapter.
Sister Alvina Sviontek and her 1st grade class on the steps of St. Peter’s Church in 1957. It was not uncommon for Sisters to have as many as 60 students in their classrooms.
All three men agree that they are the individuals they are today because of the Sisters. When asked to each give one word that describes the Sisters, the words were sacrifice, dedication, and sharing. Sister Paula tells one last story. As a young girl, she enjoyed listening to “Little Orphan Annie” on the radio. Ovaltine was a sponsor of the show and would advertise during the broadcast that the drink would calm you if you were nervous about anything. One day in class, Sister Octavia was having a very rough day with her students. Sister Paula, seated in the front of the class, suggested to Sister Octavia that if she drank Ovaltine, everything would be better. Sitting with Sisters Bernard Marie and Paula, Bob K., Bob S. and Mike on a July afternoon in the Sisters’ Convent, gave just a small glimpse of a friendship forged over 140 years between the Joliet Franciscan Sisters and the people of St. Peter’s in Mansfield. May it continue to grow.
Where Are They Now? Wondering about the teachers you had at St. Peter’s? These Sisters, all teachers at St. Peter’s, are still serving the people of God: California: Sr. Barbarine (Leonard) Houdek, La Canada Flintridge Florida: Sr. Janet (Jonathan) Rieden, Ft. Lauderdale Illinois: - Chicago: Sr. June (Donald Marie) Marshall - Crest Hill: Sr. Phyllis (Verene) Pitz - Joliet: Sr. Agnes Marie Kovacic; Sr. Alcuin Kelly; Sr. Janet (Allan) Tucci; Sr. Patricia (Antonita) Vaira; Sr. Julie Ann (Bertha Ann) Borer; Sr. Donna Marie Baier; Sr. Elaine Kerscher; Sr. Marie (Euphemia) Grunloh; Sr. Pauline Ann (Isabelle) Furiel; Sr. Johanna Didier; Sr. Helen (John Edward) Zulka; Sr. Judith Kurry; Sr. Karla Zdenek; Sr. Anna Marie (Leonissa) Metz; Sr. Margaret
Krieger; Sr. Elaine R. (Martha Ann) Schneider; Sr. Mary Wilhelmine Tikva (*); Sr. Maurice White; Sr. Patricia Mitchell; Sr. Patricia David; Sr. Eileen (Rose Francis) Bannon; Sr. Therese (Stephen) Tusek; Sr. Tecla Snyder; Sr. Teresa Noser - Lombard: Sr. Pauline Schutz - Quincy: Sr. Thadine Kaminski; Sr. Clare (Clarissa) Wand - Wheaton: Sr. Brigid (Brigid Marie) Jacobs Ohio: Sr. Bernard Marie Campbell, Mansfield; Sr. Paula Bingert, Mansfield; Sr. Irene (Emmanuel) Yosick, Shelby; Sr. Mary Olivieri, Columbus; and Sr. Sharon Kerscher, Columbus *Sr. Mary Wilhelmine Tikva will celebrate her 100th birthday on October 19, 2011.
Summer 2011
15
2011 Honorees Mother Alfred Moes Award Karen Fleshman of Columbus, Ohio, is our 2011 Mother Alfred Moes Award honoree. Karen has devoted the greater part of her life to caring for the needs of many. A tireless volunteer for more than 30 years at Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Karen provides everything from beanie babies to hugs to the young patients, while serving as a presence for family members, sometimes speaking a kind word and other times lending a willing ear. Karen has served on numerous boards of church and city organizations to help provide safe and recreational programs to people of many different backgrounds. She is a member of the Southeast Community Playground Committee and is instrumental in getting companies to sponsor activity days for the neighborhood children. Mother Alfred Award Honoree Karen Fleshman
Mother Alfred Moes was a woman of vision who turned that vision into service. Karen Fleshman is also such a person.
Joliet Franciscan Heritage Award George and Regina Block of Joliet, Illinois are 2011 Joliet Franciscan Heritage Award honorees. Longtime residents of Joliet, George and Regina give tirelessly of themselves to the people of Joliet through their support of a number of Jolietarea organizations as members of boards and committees. They have provided time, talent and treasure to not only their parish and the Diocese of Joliet, but to educational institutions, social service agencies and medical facilities across the community. George and Regina are examples of what good can come from investing yourself in your community.
Franciscan Heritage Award Regina & George Block
Father James Lennon is also a 2011 Joliet Franciscan Heritage Award honoree. A F native of Joliet, Father Jim has been a part of the Diocese of Joliet since his ordinan ttion in 1958. Serving and residing in parishes and now in residence at the John Paul II Center, Father Jim has touched thousands of lives through his years in the P priesthood. A former student of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters while a student at the p Cathedral of St. Raymond School, Father Jim has served as a spiritual director to C ccongregations of women religious for almost 40 years. He appreciates the spiritual rrelationship and friendships he shares with women religious saying that his spirittual life has been greatly enriched by their commitment, dedication and devotion. Franciscan Heritage Award Fr. Jim Lennon
Father Jim is a gift not just to the Catholic community of Joliet, but to the entire F community. And he is a treasured friend of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate.
The Awards will be presented at the 22nd Annual Franciscan Autumn Feast on Sunday, October 16, 2011. For information on the Feast, please contact the Mission Advancement Office.
16
confiança
Sisters in the News Sister Mary Jean Morris, pastoral coordinator at St. Luke Catholic Church in Bruce, Mississippi, and an active leader with the Our Daily Bread Food Pantry, was presented with the 2010 Citizen of the Year Award by the Bruce Chamber of Commerce on February 10th. Recently, Sister Mary Jean returned to Joliet and serves as the Congregation’s Director of Initial Formation. Congratulations, Sister Mary Jean, and welcome back to Joliet! On March 17th, Sister Faith Szambelanczyk was inducted into the Joliet Catholic Academy Hall of Fame. Sister Faith served as president of JCA beginning in 1994 until her retirement this past June. Congratulations, Sister Faith, on both your Hall of Fame induction and your retirement!
(Seated) Sister Faith and her mother, receive a blessing from the Sisters, in thanksgiving for Sr. Faith’s many years of service at JCA.
Sister Jeanne Bessette is the new president at DePaul Cristo Rey High School in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Sister Mary Jean Morris is the new Director of Initial Formation for the Congregation.
Dedication of Sala Santa Chiara at USF. Friday, May 20th, saw many of the Sisters in the Joliet area gather at the University of St. Francis for the dedication of “Sala Santa Chiara” (St. Clare’s Room). The room is the former community room located on the 2nd floor of the “Motherhouse.” The naming of the room is the result of the Sisters’ pledge of financial support to USF’s capital campaign.
In 2009, Sister Jeanne Bessette moved to Cincinnati to assume her new role as president of the new DePaul Cristo Rey High School. The school is sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati and is the city’s first new Catholic high school in more than 50 years. The network of Cristo Rey High Schools across the United States – 24 in total - serves 6,500 students living in metropolitan areas with limited education opportunities. Sister Jeanne had the responsibility of finding a suitable location, overseeing the renovation of the facilities and forging relationships with corporate sponsors who would provide employment and tuition support to the student body. The school opened its doors for the first time in June of this year for summer school. Congratulations, Sister Jeanne!
In July, Sister Karen Berry, who ministers in Tucson, Arizona, was honored by the Franciscan Federation with the 2011 Franciscan Award. Through her ministry, Sister Karen shares her love of the Gospel as well as of Saints Francis and Clare. She teaches classes at St. Francis Cabrini Church in Tucson, as well as other venues. She is the author of a number of books on the subject of spirituality and has been a contributing columnist featured in several religious education magazines. Congratulations, Sister Karen!
Dr. Vinciguerra receives a picture of Saint Clare from Sister Mary Rose Lieb.
Sister Karen Berry recently received the 2011 Franciscan Award
Summer 2011
17
New Administrators appointed at two Sponsored Institutions There are new appointments at two of the seven Sponsored Institutions of the Congregation. Mr. Jeffrey Budz was appointed Principal and Head of School of Joliet Catholic Academy (JCA) and Mrs. Carol Shaw-Burns is the new Administrator at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home (OLA). Up until his new appointment, Mr. Budz was the principal of JCA for six years while Sr. Faith Szambelanczyk, OSF was the CEO and President of the school. After Sr. Faith’s retirement, an extensive search process began, and the Board of Members unanimously agreed that Mr. Budz was the best person to lead JCA at this time. As a man of deep faith and one who is committed to Catholic secondary education, Mr. Budz said, “I believe in the leadership of the Franciscans and Carmelites who co-sponsor our school.” He looks forward to working with families, faculty and staff to make more of an impact on the JCA community. He is also grateful for the time he spent with Sr. Faith. “I learned a lot from her!” Sr. Faith spent seventeen years at JCA before retiring. Mr. Jeffrey Budz, looks forward to the coming year at JCA.
Mr. Budz hopes that he will be able to “set a new and clear vision and direction for both the school and community.” As he gets ready for the upcoming year, he will not only be the principal, but a parent as well; his oldest son will be attending JCA as an incoming freshman. The Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate are happy to welcome him into this new position.
Mr. Budz with his secretary, Mrs. Rosemarie Costa.
Mrs. Carol Shaw-Burns has over 15 years of experience in the aging services field. Before coming to Our Lady of Angels in August, 2010, she worked at Providence Life Services in Tinley Park, Illinois. Mrs. Shaw-Burns brings a wealth of experience to her Administrator’s position at OLA and views her position as a “calling” to serve the elderly. “I’ve found my work to be extremely enjoyable, rewarding and spiritually fulfilling. OLA appeared to be a place where I could continue to serve in an environment that truly embraces the mission and vision of the institution and lives them every day,” said Mrs. Shaw-Burns. She added, “I am extremely honored to be a part of an excellent organization.” Mrs. Shaw-Burns hopes to carry on the traditions, mission, and viMrs. Carol Shaw-Burns views her job as sion of OLA and she hopes to use a “calling,” and loves being at OLA. her experience and background to enhance the services already available there. Both the Sisters and “We love her!” says Sister Anna Marie Metz (on residents of OLA are grateful for her leadership and are extremely right), when speaking about Mrs. Shaw-Burns. happy with her deep compassion and quick smile.
18
confiança
Mark Your Calendars Prayer Breakfasts Join us for Prayer Breakfasts held throughout the warmer months of the year. The morning begins with prayer and includes an inspirational talk and breakfast. The next Prayer Breakfast for women is scheduled for Wednesday, October 12th, at 7AM. Sister Meg Guider is our speaker. The suggested donation for these events is $10.00. For more information, please call: (815) 725-8735.
Ways To Give Considering a gift to the Sisters? There are a variety of ways to accomplish this: You may: • Make a gift by cash, check or credit card (Visa or MasterCard). Use the enclosed envelope or print the donation form on our website at www.jolietfranciscans.org. • Make a gift of stock.
22nd Annual Franciscan Autumn Feast “Renew, Rebuild, Rebirth” Sunday, October 16, 2011 4PM - Reception, Raffles and Silent Auction 5PM - Dinner Celebrate with us at the Bolingbrook Golf Club. This year’s Feast benefits the Sisters’ 2012 General Chapter “Renew, Rebuild, Rebirth.” The Mother Alfred Moes and Joliet Franciscan Heritage Awards will be presented at the Feast. There will be a silent auction and cash raffle. Tickets are $90.00. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Raffle and Silent Auction items are needed. Proceeds benefit the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate. For more information, please call 815-725-8735, x116.
Fourth Annual “Come To The Stable” This is a perfect way to spend a December afternoon in preparation for Christmas. Light holiday refreshments will be available. To display your Nativity scene, please call 815-725-8735, x116.
• Consider becoming a member of the Canticle of the Future, our planned giving society. Notify the Mission Advancement office if you have remembered the Sisters in your will or an insurance policy. Information on all of the above is available by calling the Mission Advancement office at 815-725-8735, x116.
Sign up for E-News Do you want to hear more about the Sisters? We send updates on the Joliet Franciscans through our E-News. If you would like to be added to our list, send your name and email address to Nan Nagl at nnagl@jolietfranciscans.org. You may also sign up through our website homepage at www.jolietfranciscans.org.
Help Us Update Do we have your current address? Are you receiving duplicate copies? Do you have a friend who would like to receive our Magazine? Please let us know by using the enclosed envelope, sending an email to nnagl@jolietfranciscans.org or by calling the Mission Advancement office at 815-725-8735, x116. We want to hear from you!
Summer 2011
19
1433 Essington Road
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 148 Joliet, IL
Joliet, IL 60435-2873
Save the Date 22nd Annual Franciscan Autumn Feast October 16, 2011 Bolingbrook Golf Club Raffles - Silent Auction 4:00 pm Dinner - 5:00 pm
Visit us at www.jolietfranciscans.org