Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate
confianรงa
a Portuguese word meaning faith and trust.
Celebrations FALL 2012
A Welcome from Sister Dolores Zemont Dear Friends, As the recently installed President of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters, I am honored to welcome you to the Fall 2012 issue of Confiança, our Congregation’s magazine. I have served as a Pastoral Associate at St. Mary’s Parish in Mokena, Illinois, for the past 13 years. Although I will miss my parish work, I am both excited and humbled to be able to serve my Congregation and the people of God in this new ministry. We have had a very busy summer. One of the highlights of the summer months is always Jubilee. On June 16th, our 2012 Jubilarians gathered at the Cathedral of St. Raymond with their Joliet Franciscan Sisters and Associates, family members and friends to celebrate these milestones in their religious lives. Somehow, we always seem to be blessed with beautiful weather which adds that extra special touch to what is a very memorable day for our Jubilarians and our Congregation. On June 23rd, we gathered at Our Lady of Angels Chapel for the installation of the 2012 -2016 Central Administration of the Congregation. Sisters Clarita Schumacher, Peggy Quinn, Teresinha Mendonça Del’Acqua, Lourdes Boyer, Mary Jane Griffin and I will serve as the Congregation’s leadership team over the next four years. You can read more about us within the magazine. On July 21st, we witnessed Sister Deborah Gaughan make her First Profession of Vows. Surrounded by her religious Sisters and our Associates, as well as her family and friends, Sister Deborah reminded us that God has called each of us by name to come and follow Him. With sadness yet with profound gratitude for her extraordinary life, we said goodbye to Sister Patricia Vaira who died on July 31st. Sister Pat spent almost 40 years at St. Peter’s in Mansfield before coming to Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home several years ago. She is greatly missed both in Mansfield and here in Joliet.
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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 - Lucy Sanchez Director of Communications Layout and Design - Lucy Sanchez Copy Editors - Sr. Carlene Howell, OSF and Jennifer Cmolik
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 2012 Jubilarians
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Sister Deborah Makes First Profession
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Associate Corner
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Meet My Ministry
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New Leadership
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At Journey’s End
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Mark Your Calendars
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On the Cover (Top Left): New Governing Board; picture of Jubilarian Sisters celebrating 60 & 75 years. (Bottom Left): Jubilarian Sisters celebrating their 50 years; picture of Jubilarian Sisters celebrating their 25 years. © 2012, Sisters of St. Francis
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Advancing the Mission Hello everyone! We are now in my favorite time of year – autumn. There is something about the colors of the leaves and the crispness of the air that I look forward to every year. Thank you for the wonderful support shown for both the annual Spring 2012 appeal and the Back-to-School appeal, which is now in progress. Many of you have made your gifts in honor or in memory of one of the Sisters, a family member or friend. In our Spring issue of Confiança, I promised that we would cover our 2012 Jubilarians and introduce you to the 2012-2016 Central Administration in this issue. I think you’ll enjoy both pieces. In “Meet My Ministry,” Sister Elaine Kerscher shares information about her work as a defender of the bond for the Joliet Diocesan Tribunal. Associate Jeanne Foley provides a look at the NACAR International Conference she attended recently with Sister Sharon Frederick, Sister Sandra Sudkamp, Associate Lynne Sparks, and Associate Janine Hicks. NACAR stands for the North American Conference of Associates and Religious. The 23rd Annual Franciscan Autumn Feast takes place on Sunday, October 28th at the Bolingbrook Golf Club. This year’s event will benefit both our retired Sisters and the
Congregation’s work in Brazil. We are seeking sponsors for the Feast as well as Silent Auction items. If you are able to assist with one or Nagl both, please contact Nan Director of Mission Advancement me at 815-725-8735, x116 or by email at nnagl@jolietfranciscans.org. Your support will be greatly appreciated. You are remembered in the prayers of our Sisters. Please know you make a difference in not only their lives, but the lives of those to whom they minister. I ask that you continue your financial support of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters by considering a gift through one of our appeals, remembering the Congregation in your estate plans, or making a donation through this publication. We appreciate all that you do. Until next time, enjoy the miracle of each new day.
Fifteen of us attended the annual Franciscan Federation assembly in Cincinnati, Ohio. Sister
Margaret Alice Martinek was among the honorees recognized for her work with some of our nation’s poorest individuals and families in Selma, Alabama. And with just enough time to unpack and repack, Sisters Clarita, Peggy, Teresinha and I headed to St. Louis, Missouri, for the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) Annual Assembly. You are remembered in the prayers of all of our Sisters, in both the United States and Brazil. We are so grateful for all that you do for us through your spiritual and financial support. We realize that we do not travel this journey alone and that you are always with us. For that, we are truly grateful. Peace and all good,
Sister Dolores Zemont, OSF President
One of her first duties as President, Sister Dolores accepted Sister Deborah’s first vows as a Joliet Franciscan.
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Congratulations to our 2012 Jubilarians On June 16th, we honored our 2012 Jubilarians during a Eucharistic Liturgy at the Cathedral of St. Raymond in Joliet. Celebrating their 25th, 50th, 60th and 75th Jubilees, each Sister stated her name during her Renewal of Vows and said, “I hereby renew my vows, promising again to Almighty God to live all the days of my life in poverty, in chastity and in obedience.” Read on to learn more about our 2012 Jubilarians in their own reflections.
Our 75thJubilarians Sister Rose Spatny I have enjoyed all the ministries
I’ve had. They are: 20 years as a teacher, 11 years as a cottage supervisor for teenage boys at Guardian Angel Home and 25 years as a social worker at Columbus, Cuneo and Cabrini. I was a housemother for teenage boys at Guardian Angel Home. Some of the boys still keep in touch with me. One in particular, Sal DiLeo, out of gratitude, has built a retreat place in Minnesota.
Sister Pauline Ann Furiel I remember leaving on my first train ride in the middle of the night to Mansfield, Ohio, and the bumpy ride to Shelby in an army bus with Sr. Madonna. All but two years of my life were spent as a music teacher. How I loved to hear children singing, especially those who were the hesitant and “monotones.” The programs were always large productions, especially those done at St. Jude’s and St. Joe’s in Englewood of Chicago! One fond memory was when a grocery boy stood behind me at Dominick’s and sang “La La La” from one of our musicals!
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Several students send Christmas cards each year. Don and Judy Kotrba, who were my students about sixty years ago, are loyal visitors. My greatest pride is in my kindergarten pupil, Sr. Lois Prebil, OSF (a 50-year Jubilarian in 2011), who has achieved many honors and is a vital member of my Franciscan Community. My ministry of prayer is very special to me. I am eternally grateful for my vocation. To me, living the Franciscan religious life means living the Gospel life with St. Francis and St. Clare as our models. Francis was intensely in love with the Lord and every moment of his life was living with Christ. Clare was a great model for contemplation.
Ever since I can remember, “being a Sister” was what I wanted to be. God has been good to me in placing me in a Community I had never known, having had an aunt, sisters and Providence Sisters as teachers. There are so many wonderful memories, starting with walking up the front steps of the Motherhouse in the dark and cold on Thursday night, the Feast of St. Elizabeth, armin-arm with my precious mother. The door was answered by dear Sister Gonzaga and we were taken up to chapel where the Sisters were in adoration of the Eucharistic Lord. We knelt in the back. The altar seemed to be ablaze with so many candles! I knew where I wanted to be! My mother was Franciscan at heart, always helping the unfortunate and downtrodden even though we had so little ourselves. She taught us that all races and creeds were loved by God. With an example like that I know God has put me in the right place. St. Francis would have loved her.
Our 60thJubilarian Sister Pauline Schutz Sister Pauline Schutz, a native of Chicago, attended St. Pascal Elementary School and Alvernia High School. After entering the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate in 1949, she continued her education at the College of St. Francis (now University of St. Francis.) Sister Pauline’s ministry began in education, teaching elementary and junior high students in Joliet and Ohio. These years of teaching were
challenging and varied, from fouth grade through eighth grade, at times single grades or two grades in a room. For six years she ministered as principal as well. In 1978 she was called to help one of the St. Pius X Sisters, who became very ill. She completed that year in the classroom and then was asked by the pastor to stay on and begin a Bereavement Ministry in the parish. This began another phase in her life, one which became her dedicated ministry to the elderly, the sick and the dying. She is now completing her 34th year at St. Pius. Of this ministry she says, “It has been a privilege and a joy to share in so many parishioners’ lives in times of suffering and times of celebration. I believe that this ‘presence’ is God’s gift to me.”
Our 50thJubilarians Sister Mary Lou Marchetti When I recall my years in ministry, I have many beautiful memories. I’d like to share two of them with you. From 1983 to 1986 I had the privilege of ministering to homeless women at Sarah’s Circle in Chicago, Illinois. I met many women who lived on the streets and came to Sarah’s Circle for all kinds of assistance. My heart was touched deeply as I heard their stories and had the opportunity to get to know them. When I left Sarah’s Circle they had a farewell party for me. The homeless women each expressed their gratitude for my time with them. One woman, probably the most needy among them, gave me a worn dollar bill. I framed that dollar and have it hanging on my wall. Every time I look at it I remember her generosity and the goodness of the homeless women I met at Sarah’s Circle. Another memory of ministry was my experience as Sunflower the Clown. I studied, trained and practiced to become a clown. To me, this was a way to express my Franciscan joy. I clowned for children, nursing home patients and Hospice patients. As a clown I experienced many graced moments. I truly believe that as Sunflower I was able to lighten hearts and bring
others closer to God. Maybe I just identified with Francis who could dance in the streets and call himself a fool for God. Being Franciscan is at the heart of my religious life. Making the Franciscan Pilgrimage deepened my desire to follow the Gospel life in the footprints of Francis and Clare. Living a Franciscan religious life is a life-long journey for me. I am energized daily as I try to understand how I am called to live each new day as a Franciscan religious woman in our times. I feel blessed to be able to live this life with my Sisters and Associates in community.
Our 75th Jubilarians and their Coordinators, from left: Sisters Rose Spatny, Sandra Salois, Pauline Ann Furiel and Yvonne Weidner.
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Our 50thJubilarians (continued) Sister Phyllis Wilhelm One very good memory is teaching the special little ones at Guardian Angel Day Treatment. Each child was indeed special and very loving. One little autistic boy has a permanent place in my heart but all of them come to mind as wonderful children. Such a loving supportive staff we had! Many tense moments were followed by times of fun and friendship.
Sisters in our parish. They led the way. Living as a Franciscan has had its ups and downs as all life does. Having the support of my Franciscan Sisters has kept me going and growing in this life. Being Franciscan has been a journey of prayers, peace, love and joy. Much of my ministry has been with the people of Northern Wisconsin in the Diocese of Superior. Living, ministering and learning with the Chippewa people has been an ever-giving gift. They have helped me grow in the hobby of beading and cooking wild game. Their love of nature and conservation is so Franciscan. The mixture of Chippewa with the other cultures has been a beautiful experience.
Franciscan religious life has been such a gift. As a child I was impressed by the happiness of the
Sister Yvonne Weidner When I was taking the high school entrance exam at St. Patrick’s Academy in Des Plaines, Illinois, the principal of the academy gave me advice I have always been grateful for. I had the desire to enter the preparatory school for young women wishing to enter the convent. I told the principal I doubted whether I would be coming to St. Patrick’s Academy since I really wanted to go to the Prep in Joliet to be a Sister of St. Francis. Sister’s advice was: “You know, I would strongly recommend...and you can do what you want to do...that you do not go to the Prep, but live a normal high school life.” I thought about it and took the Sister’s advice, participating in proms and all the other regular high school activities. I know for sure what I’ve given up, since I’ve never felt I’ve given up anything. I am freer to be who I am and to serve God’s people better.
Living the Franciscan religious life means a deeper commitment to live the Gospel values and, to quote 1 Peter 4:10, . . . “put yourselves at the service of others.” I feel that God is using me to reach another person. It is always uppermost in my mind that I’m just the instrument in helping someone else.
An old Quaker adage says, “Let your life speak.” My being proclaims who I am...not only a woman and a professed religious, but most importantly a Franciscan...a Joliet Franciscan. 50th Jubilee Celebrants are: Sisters Yvonne Weidner, Phyllis Wilhelm, Mary Lou Marchetti and Rosemary Huzl.
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Our 50thJubilarians (continued) Sister Rosemary Huzl For me, living as a Franciscan means being committed to a life of continual conversion to gospel ideals. Franciscans, since the 13th Century, have always been charged with the directive given to St. Francis: “Rebuild My Church, which you see is falling into ruin.” Living as a Franciscan means I accept that challenge first given to Francis. By living a life of simplicity, poverty
and love for the poor, I am in service to those in need. Franciscans are always about rebuilding and strengthening, not building “buildings” but placing energy into people’s lives. Beautifully stated in our Constitutions, “We as Franciscans support and sustain one another, strengthen each other to reach out to all with joy and hospitality, with selflessness, and in simplicity.” Education has been involved in every aspect of all of my ministries from the primary grade classroom to jail ministry. In many circumstances and situations I am the teacher; in others, I continue to be the learner. I have special memories of each and every place where I have ministered.
Our 25thJubilarians Irmã Izabel Lopes dos Santos For me, the Franciscan Religious Life is a gift that the Holy Spirit gives to each one of us as a privileged means of evangelization. The way to live it is mirrored in the lives of Francis and Clare. It involves being a sign, a light and a source of hope in a world of conflict and discouragement. As for my pastoral work, I would like to share a very special memory. It occurred in Santa Helena de Goiás. At the time, I was a second-year novice. When I first arrived, I spoke with Bishop Miguel Mundo about my work in the parish, mindful that I was still in the novitiate. He informed me of all the different ministries being done in the parish, but he pointed out two neighborhoods and suggested that I begin doing the following kinds of pastoral ministry there: catechesis, liturgy, youth ministry, the formation of small faith communities and so on. Upon seeing the immensity of things that needed to be done, I did get a little frightened, but soon I felt confident and courageous, realizing that Don Miguel believed in me and was motivating me to carry the work forward.
And so I walked with the grace of God and the support of Don Miguel, both in spiritual matters as well as financial ones, since many of the ministries, in order to be developed well, were in need of monetary resources. It was a very rewarding time, an exciting experience, one that was full of grace, joy, youthfulness and above all, a lot of responsibility. I thank God every day for the person of Don Miguel. He had the gift of believing in people and encouraging them to discover their gifts, values and goals. I also thank the Congregation that made it possible for me to have this experience, which was so remarkable in my life.
Celebrating their 25th Jubilee are from left: Sisters Neli Vieira dos Santos, Izabel Lopes dos Santos and Maria Aparecida Gomes.
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Our 25thJubilarians (continued) Irmã Neli Vieira dos Santos As I celebrate 25 years of consecrated life as a Joliet Franciscan Sister, I realize that my desire to be a disciple of Christ has continually grown. I am called to follow Jesus Christ and to serve my brothers and sisters who are in need of Him, all the days of my life. My Franciscan spirituality is a force within that helps me rediscover every day the profound mean-
ing of what it means to live a consecrated life. It guides me as I listen to the Word of God. It provides a great joy as I live the mission of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters among all of God’s creation. I am fulfilled as a teacher, a ministry that brings me great happiness as I think about the shining eyes of the children whom I will teach about the presence of God’s love in each of them. And so as I celebrate this 25th year as a Joliet Franciscan Sister, I pray that God’s grace will always be with me as I serve and persevere in faith. **The Sisters in Brazil will celebrate the 25th year Jubilarians on September 16th.
Irmã Maria Aparecida Gomes Irmã Maria Aparecida Gomes also lives and ministers in Brazil. As of press time, we had not yet received her reflection.
Sister Deborah Gaughan Makes Her First Profession July 21, 2012, marked a special day for both the Congregation and Sister Deborah Gaughan as she professed her first vows, responding to God’s call and embarking on the next step of her spiritual journey. With her white baptismal gown draped over her right shoulder, Sister Deborah prayerfully spoke the following words, “Lord, you have called me by name; here I am,” and formally made her First Profession of Vows before her family, friends and Sisters. Sister Deborah became an affiliate in 2009 and officially entered the Congregation in 2010 when she became a novice and received the recognized title of “Sister.” By professing her simple vows, Sister Deborah voiced her desire to continue to live the Gospel way of life according to the Rule and Life of the Third Order Regular of St. Francis and to abide by the Constitutions of the Congregation. “My profession day meant everything to me. It was more than I could ever imagine. The day was beyond amazing – God is good!” said Sister Deborah. “I am so blessed to have had my community, my family and friends supporting me and praying for and with me.” (More pictures of Sister Deborah’s profession are on the back page.)
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Associates Corner From June 1-3, 2012, Associates Janine Hicks, Jeanne Foley and Lynne Sparks, along with Sisters Sharon Frederick and Sandra Sudkamp participated in the 2012 meeting of the North American Conference of Associates and Religious (NACAR) in Deerfield, Illinois. The theme of this year’s conference was “A Journey of Blessings.” The following is a reflection by Associate Jeanne Foley.
She often recalled Jeremiah 6:16 as a guide. Stand by the roads and look. Ask for the ancient path. Which is the way to good? Walk on it and find rest for your soul. “Unpacking” each line throughout her speech, we contemplated the mindfulness of standing and looking. In asking for the ancient path we return, as Vatican II enjoined us, to the vision and innovation of our founders. The way to good is a timely question. We answer it by walking it with faith and trust in this land of “Don’t Know.”
Sr. Judy Gomilla, a Marianite of the Holy Cross and board member of NACAR, started us on our “journey” by hiking across the stage with a hobo sack on a stick perched on her shoulder. This symbol of knapsack and joyful movement accompanied us throughout the weekend as we Our Roman Catholic Church today shared our blessings and disis not comfortable in “Don’t Know” covered new ones. As emcee of land. Sr. Joyce describes the church our conference, Sr. Judy excelled as grasping for certitude and sufin a myriad of ways of keeping fering from the lack of a pastoral us prayerful, laughing, awake, approach. The current investigaaware, grounded, on track, tion of LCWR illustrates this tenand energized. She seamlessly sion. She wonders if the outcome is moved from profound prayerful going to be a gift to the Church as insights to electrifying stories women religious model the pastoral From Left: Lynne Sparks, Sr. Sharon Frederick, Janine approach that is so sorely needed in of character and humor all in a Hicks, Jeanne Foley and Sr. Sandra Sudkamp. matter of minutes as she inour world. troduced the various sessions. She truly was a major part of our blessings. Inspiring Religious life today is on a threshold, a place to be alert prayer and music sustained us throughout the weekand prayerful before moving into the unknown. What was end and was enhanced in much of what the presenters once not allowed becomes the norm. We are treated as shared, as well as during the networking and breakoutsiders, possessing nothing for a wilderness existence. out sessions. We are called to be counter-cultural and so we can expect suffering. It takes tremendous faith and trust to walk this Sr. Joyce Rupp, OSM, noted writer, retreat and conroad Jeremiah describes. ference leader, gave the keynote, “Going Deeper… Mystery of the Journey.” She began with a poem by NACAR remains dedicated to helping associates claim Rilke about the evening as a metaphor for religious life their call. We were all encouraged to support, participate today. Rilke invites us to “step out of the room where and contribute our talents to keep NACAR going. It proeverything is known.” In our world, in our nation, in vides amazing resources and networking opportunities. our culture, in our Church, in religious-associate life we are living in the “land of Don’t Know.” This Don’t A grace-filled liturgy for Trinity Sunday, with Father John Know space leads us, if we allow it, to wisdom which Lee as Presider, sent us off to be, to do the work, and to opens us to miracles. We are always “on the way” walk the road together as Associates and vowed members as pilgrims. Pilgrims expect to be challenged and in the footsteps of Jesus, in the footsteps of our founders. changed, unlike tourists who like to travel with comSr. Judy’s cheer of “WE ARE THE CHURCH!!” will confortable accommodations. tinue to echo from our hearts. If you are interested in learning about the Associate program, please contact Sister Sharon Frederick by email at: sfrederick@stfrancis.edu or visit our website at: http://www.jolietfranciscans.org under the Associate section.
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Meet My Ministry Meet Sister Elaine Kerscher, OSF. Sister Elaine joined the Joliet Franciscan Sisters in 1962. She has served the Congregation in many different capacities including General Secretary, Director of Initial Formation and Vice-President and Councilor for the Membership. Sr. Elaine is a canon lawyer and currently ministers as a defender of the bond for the Joliet Diocesan Tribunal. Following is a glimpse of her ministry at the Tribunal. I invite you to accompany me on a journey of call and response, of mystery and trust, of unbelievable surprises that awaited me “just around the bend” in this journey called life. I am Sister Elaine Kerscher, and during the past fifty years my life of ministry followed many paths. Each time I embarked on something new, whether it was teaching, parish ministry, religious formation in my Sister Elaine Kerscher Community, graduate studies, Congregation leadership or Tribunal ministry, I experienced a bit of what the famed poet, Robert Frost, referred to in his poem, The Road Not Taken: “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” One of my most significant learnings over the years is that our God is a God of surprises! In the summer of 1993 God’s Spirit of Surprises summoned me to Rockford, Illinois, where I was offered the position of advocate in the Diocesan Tribunal. I remember when I was discerning this position I asked a friend, “Why would I want to go to Rockford where I don’t know anyone?” and, “Why would I want to work in a Tribunal about which I know so little?” My friend’s reply to each question was, “Be open, Elaine.” With a leap of faith, believing that there was some compelling reason why I should respond to this call, I packed my bags, moved to Rockford, and began working as a Tribunal advocate. Two years later the Bishop of Rockford offered to sponsor my study for a licentiate in canon law. Now, I had not grown up with childhood dreams of one day becoming a canon lawyer! To be honest, I did not jump up and down at the thought of such a challenge, but I knew that I could not turn down an opportunity for further education that undoubtedly had the potential to benefit God’s people. And so, with another “yes” I embraced the challenge, and after completing the two-year program of studies I returned to Rockford to serve primarily as a judge in the Tribunal. I now work in the Joliet Diocesan Tribunal as a defender of the bond. You might wonder: What is a Diocesan Tribunal? A Diocesan Tribunal is the official ecclesiastical court of the Catholic Church and is established in each diocese by the Bishop. It considers matters that pertain to Church legislation or canon law. What happens in a Diocesan Tribunal? As the judicial office of the Bishop of the diocese, the Tribunal interprets and applies the laws of the Church in the protection of rights as well as the determination of the status of persons in the Church. Primarily, it is the role of a Diocesan Tribunal to hear the cases of those who are divorced and who are petitioning the Church to make a judgment on the possible invalidity of their marriage. The Tribunal may also deal with other sacramental matters as well. What is a decree of nullity or annulment? Canon law safeguards the indissolubility of the marriage bond. By law a marriage is presumed valid until proven otherwise by positive proof. The Tribunal, along with the Church, recognizes that invalid marriages do exist by reasons stated in the law. A decree of nullity, or annulment, is given when the marriage is determined to be invalid because an essential quality or element of the marriage was lacking at the time of exchange of consent.
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Sister Elaine Kerscher receives the new cases from Hope Dick, a Secretary at the Tribunal.
Who works in a Tribunal? The Tribunal is under the direction of the Bishop who delegates specially trained priests, religious and laity to assist those who seek the Tribunal’s services. The staff includes primarily advocates (who represent the respective parties, assist in the collection of proofs, and monitor the progress of the case); defenders of the bond (whose responsibility is to argue for the validity of the marriage and insure that Church law has been observed during the investigation); judges (who hear and decide cases brought to the Tribunal); and notaries/secretaries (who authenticate documents and provide clerical services). Probably no one was more surprised than I was to discover the rewarding ministry that was mine as an advocate in the Tribunal. Every day I met with people who were searching for healing and wholeness following the traumatic experience of a failed marriage and legal divorce. I listened to their stories of faith and brokenness, of their feelings of shame and alienation, of their longing to forgive and be forgiven, and of their deep desire to be reconciled with the Church. I came to understand that in this call to Tribunal ministry I had been given an unexpected and surprising grace – an op- Sister Elaine Kerscher reviews portunity to meet face to face and heart to heart with people seeking a deeper relation- cases with the Very Reverend ship with God. Some people were Catholics who had been away from the Church for Joseph J. Tapella, the Judical many years following a divorce and remarriage, and came to realize within their deep- Vicar at the Diocese of Joliet. est selves a yearning to be restored once again to the sacramental life of the Church. In sharing their stories many people confided, often in tears, “I really miss the Eucharist.” Some people belonged to other religious denominations, some to none. My ministry as a Tribunal advocate allowed me to offer to all a listening heart without judgment, to extend compassion and encouragement, to answer questions that had long troubled one’s soul, and to offer support to someone who often felt alone in her/his pain.
Sister Elaine stands in front of the Tribunal Offices of the Diocese of Joliet, located on Bridge Street.
My ministry as a judge in the Tribunal, and presently as a defender of the bond, presents similar opportunities to serve God’s people through a judicial process that focuses on truth and justice. It is not a process of fault-finding, nor does it seek to place blame. It invites one to reflect on her/his life and to identify the factors, conditions or circumstances that may have interfered with the ability to establish a stable, permanent marital commitment. As a defender of the bond, it is my responsibility to study carefully all the testimony that has been presented by the parties, the witnesses and the advocates, and to point out and clarify any and all reasonable evidence in favor of the validity of the marriage being examined. My role is neither to defend at all costs nor to distort the truth. Once I compose my statement of defense of the marriage bond, the case is given to the assigned judge for a formal decision on the validity of the bond. The judge observes carefully the process outlined in canon law for evaluating proofs and arriving at a just decision.
Some people are very skeptical when I tell them that I work in a Diocesan Tribunal. They look at me like there must be something wrong with me – for who in her right mind would dedicate her life to something that seems so legalistic and boring?! What they fail to understand (until I explain, of course) is that people come to the Tribunal seeking reconciliation. Tribunal ministers are privileged to assist these people whose lives have often been shattered by the experience of a failed marriage, people who seek healing, forgiveness and peace. Jesus always reached out to those in need of healing, and we are called to do likewise. It has been my gift and privilege to serve the cause of truth and justice as a canon lawyer and to serve God’s people with an open and loving heart.
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New Congregation Leadership On Saturday, June 23, 2012, the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate confirmed their recently elected Governing Board for the 2012-2016 term. The newly elected members are: Sr. Dolores Zemont, President; Sr. Clarita Schumacher, Vice President and Councilor for the Membership; Sr. Peggy Quinn, Councilor for Franciscan Spirituality, and Sr.Teresinha Mendonça Del’Acqua, Councilor for the Mission. Sr. Mary Jane Griffin, General Treasurer, and Sr. Lourdes Boyer, General Secretary, were re-appointed to their respective positions and comprise the Central Administration for the next four years. Following are their Oaths of Office for the 2012 - 2016 term.
Sister Dolores Zemont President With faith in the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the transforming love of Jesus Christ, the creative power of the Father, and under the protection of Mary, I, Sister Dolores Zemont, accept the call to servant leadership as President of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate. In the spirit of Francis and Clare, building on the past of those who have gone before us, and with abiding hope for our future, I promise to serve with love, compassion and faithfulness and to walk with you, my Sisters and Associates, as we journey together into the unfolding mystery that is our future.
Sister Clarita Schumacher Vice President, Councilor for the Membership Trusting in an ever-present and loving God, I, Sister Clarita Schumacher, with God’s help and your support, accept the call to servant leadership as Councilor for the Membership and Vice President of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate. With a strong belief in shared responsibility and community, I promise to be present to you as we live as people of hope, being those wounded healers who faithfully witness to the mystery furthering the Reign of God. Governing Board 2012 - 2016: Sister Clarita, Sister Teresinha, Sister Dolores and Sister Peggy.
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Sister Teresinha Mendonça Del’Acqua Councilor for the Mission In the spirit of a Gospel servant, trusting in God’s grace and inspirited by St. Francis, St. Clare and Mother Alfred Moes, I, Sister Teresinha Mendonça Del’Acqua, promise to God, to you my Sisters and Associates in the Church, to be faithful to the responsibilities of the Councilor for the Mission in our Congregation. Sisters, Associates and friends, please pray for me and I will pray for you. Together we can grow much more in a ministry of peace, love, confiança and hope, being a prophetic presence in this world.
Making their Oaths of Office.
Sister Peggy Quinn Councilor for Franciscan Spirituality Trusting in the God of all creation, following in the footsteps of Jesus, and transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit, I, Sister Peggy Quinn, promise to serve faithfully as Councilor for Franciscan Spirituality with and among our Sisters and Associates. Chapter 2012 put our vision and direction into words for the next four years. I commit myself to the work of this vision. May we work together with new eyes and feel with a new heart so that we can make a difference in the world as Francis, Clare and Mother Alfred did in their times.
Sister Mary Jane (MJ) Griffin General Treasurer Trusting in God, I, Sister Mary Jane Griffin, promise to serve you, my Sisters, as General Treasurer of this Congregation. With your prayer and support I will steward as best I can those resources entrusted to me for our life in mission.
Sister Lourdes Boyer General Secretary
Facing the new Central Administration are Sisters Mary Rose Lieb, Meg Guider and Sue Bruno, from the Governing Board of 2008 - 2012.
With confidence in a God who is ever-present and encouraged by a community of Sisters and Associates who walk with me, I, Sister Lourdes Boyer, assume the duties of General Secretary. Together, may we further the hopes and dreams we share. FALL 2012
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At Journey’s End - Sister Patricia (Antonita) Vaira, OSF Sister Patricia Vaira died on July 31, 2012. Born to Anton and Lucy (Jewett) Vaira on October 5, 1931, Sister Pat was the third of six children. She grew up in South Wilmington, Illinois. Having experienced the loss of both a brother and sister, Sister Pat was attuned to the importance of living each day with gratitude, generosity and joy. She was a member of St. Lawrence Parish and attended South Wilmington Elementary School. After graduating from South Wilmington High School, she began her undergraduate studies at the College of St. Francis (CSF) and it was there that she first experienced the inspiration, friendliness and concern of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters who made up the faculty and the staff. Under the influence of Sister Miriam Edward (Loretta Wagner), Sister Pat was supported in her attraction to Franciscan life and encouraged to enter the Congregation. She entered the Postulancy on September 4, 1950 during her sophomore year at CSF. The following August she entered the Novitiate receiving the name of Sister M. Antonita. On August 12, 1953, she made First Profession of Vows. Completing a Bachelor of Arts degree from CSF and a Master of Arts degree in Business from Catholic University of America, Sister Pat was a passionate advocate of Catholic education. She devoted herself to this lifelong ministry that earned her the reputation as an enthusiastic, respected and much loved teacher. In 1953, Sister Pat began teaching at St. Mary Magdalene Parish in Columbus, Ohio, where she also served as the parish organist. In 1957 she began a six year ministry of teaching General Business, Typing, Stenography and Bookkeeping at St. Francis Academy (now Joliet Catholic Academy) in Joliet. In 1963 her ministry took her back to Ohio where she taught at Bishop Ready High School in Columbus and St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Louisville. In 1968 she began an almost 40 year ministry at St. Peter High School in Mansfield, Ohio. Always giving credit to Sister Margaret Duffy, her mentor, for teaching her how to teach typing, she sought to keep abreast of the changes and innovations in Business Machines and Office work. Skilled at combining learning with leisure, she readily took up the challenges of learning court stenography and
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welcomed the opportunity to move from a manual typewriter to a computer. Words from a plaque outside St. Peter’s High School Room 108, (fondly known as “Sr. Pat’s Room”) express it best: “She adapted to every new technology that the world offered for the sake of her students. She also taught and role-modeled even more important skills. She taught us all the value of faith, the promise of hope, the meaning of love and the awesome power of God.” Characterized by her openness and availability to respond to the call to be “Sister,” she always served others with a friendly smile, a gentle sense of humor and a contagious enthusiasm. While serving formally as the Congregation’s General Secretary from 1972 to 1976, there were countless ways in which she came to the aid of those writing theses, dissertations and just about anything in need of typing, formatting and creative design. When her health began to fail, she accepted what was being asked of her in her usual quiet, unassuming way, and still found ways to continue to minister to children at St. Peter’s as she was able. She could frequently be seen in the Day Care Center, holding the little ones, and then in the school cafeteria where the students affectionately gave her the title of “Cookie Lady.”
Long-time friends, Sister Pat and Sister Bernard Marie Campbell spent a combined 100+ years at St. Peter’s in Mansfield, Ohio.
In 2008, Sr. Pat returned to Joliet, where she devoted herself to the ministries of presence and prayer at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home until making her final journey home to God. As her parting gift, at once simple and profound, Sister Pat entrusts us with the daily prayer that graced her classrooms and grounded her Franciscan life for 62 years: “Lord, direct the work of our hands.”
Mark Your Calendars 23nd Annual Franciscan Autumn Feast Sunday, October 28, 2012 4PM - Reception, Raffles and Silent Auction 5PM - Dinner Celebrate with us at the Bolingbrook Golf Club. The Mother Alfred Moes Award will be presented to Bishop Joseph L. Imesch and the Joliet Franciscan Heritage Award will be presented to John and Jeanette D’Arcy. 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.
Fifth Annual “Come To The Stable” Saturday, December 8th 1:00 - 4:00 PM Sunday, December 9th 1:00 - 4:00 PM 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.
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. • 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 on our website or available by calling the Mission Advancement office at 815-725-8735, x116.
Sign up for E-News Prayer Breakfasts Our prayer breakfasts are completed for 2012. Watch for them to return beginning in May, 2013.
Prayer Evenings Did you miss our Prayer Evenings? Good news! They are coming back to our Joliet Franciscan Center. Watch for news on our website or in ENews in the nottoo-distant future!
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, or visit us on facebook!
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!
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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 148 Joliet, IL
1433 Essington Road Joliet, IL 60435-2873
You’re Invited!
23rd Annual Franciscan Autumn Feast October 28, 2011 Bolingbrook Golf Club Raffles - Silent Auction 4:00 pm Dinner - 5:00 pm (More information at: 815-725-8735)
Visit us at www.jolietfranciscans.org
Photos are from Sister Deborah Gaughan’s First Profession of Vows.