The Joliet Franciscan A Publication of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate - Joliet, IL
Happy 100th Birthday Sister Mary Franz
Letter from the President
Sister Dolores Zemont, OSF
De Dear Friends, Wh When you read through the pages of our magazine, you will see a few of the recent events gi giving the Joliet Franciscans opportunities to celebrate as a community. We celebrated the Ju Jubilees of five of our Sisters and the installation of the 2016-2020 Central Administrati tion. Joining me on the leadership team are Sisters Rosemary Fonck, MJ Griffin, Barbara Kw Kwiatkowski and Lourdes Boyer. We are both honored and humbled that the Sisters have en entrusted us with these positions of leadership for the next four years. An Another big celebration was the 100th birthday of Sister Mary Franz. Still serving in a mi ministry of presence, Sister Mary spends time each day visiting and praying with her Joliet Fr Franciscan Sisters, as well as with many of the lay residents at Our Lady of Angels Reti tirement Home (OLA) where Sister Mary lives. We are also looking forward to two more 10 100th birthdays coming up: Sister Mariarthur Hamann on November 30 and Sister Marie Sc Schramko on February 10. Sr. Dolores Zemont, OSF
We also celebrated a new Corporate Stance – the first since 2006. The new stance is that of Anti-Racism, one of the most pressing issues in our society today. Our Anti-Racism Committee (ARC) has been involved in providing workshops in our Sponsored Institutions, bringing awareness to the topic and providing ways to bring an Anti-Racism personal stance into our own lives. I invite you to visit the ARC page on our website for more information. There are also things which happen in the Congregation that are not necessarily obvious to everyone but they are no less important. Here are just a few of them. The St. Clare Prayer House opened its Spiritual Library. The library offers a variety of books and videos that can be checked out. Also, since Labor Day of 2015, some of our Sisters who were in ministry outside of Joliet have now moved to Joliet and are residents either at OLA or the Village at Our Lady of Angels. Sisters Bernard Marie Campbell and Paula Bingert arrived from Mansfield, Ohio, after more than a combined 100 years of ministry at St. Peter’s parish. After more than 100 years combined, Sisters Marie Schramko and Janet Rieden relocated from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where they served at Cardinal Gibbons High School. Sister Barbarine Houdek, who served as a Librarian for 27 years at St. Francis High School in Flintridge, California, now lives in the Village. Sister Nicholas Tosseng, who ministered at St. Tarcissus Parish in Chicago for 29 years recently moved to OLA as has Sister Pauline Schutz who just completed a 38-year ministry at St. Pius X in Lombard, Illinois. More than 60 Sisters now live in OLA or the Village – many still in active ministry throughout the Joliet area - making it quite a large community that is able to visit and pray together on a regular basis. Sister Deborah Gaughan, the youngest of our Sisters in the United States, earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work. She is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and also holds a Child Welfare Employee License (CWEL). Sister Jeanne Bessette was given an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Ohio, for her lifelong commitment to education, her dedication to her community of religious Sisters and for her hope that all children
The Joliet Franciscan CONGREGATION LEADERSHIP Sr. Dolores Zemont, OSF Sr. Rosemary Fonck, OSF Sr. MJ Griffin, OSF Sr. Barbara Kwiatkowski, OSF
EDITOR / LAYOUT DESIGN Lucy Sanchez Director of Communications lsanchez@jolietfranciscans.org
COPY EDITORS Sister Ann Freiburg, OSF Sister Carlene Howell, OSF Renee Cipriani
Joliet Franciscan Center - JFC / 1433 Essington Rd. / Joliet, IL / 60435-2873 / (815) 725-8735 © 2016 - Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, Joliet, IL. All Rights Reserved
Advancing the Mission Hello Everyone! We are in my favorite time of year – autumn! The leaves are vibrant colors. The air has a crispness to it. A favorite sweater is ready for wearing on cooler days. Winter will be here soon enough, but until then, I will take an autumn day any day! This is also the time when we start to look back at the year closing in a few months, a year which seems to have barely just begun. Early on, the Mission Advancement team decided we would jump deeper into the social media pool and participated in a workshop hosted by the National Catholic Development Conference covering the topic. As a result, we now have a blog titled “Living the Gospel” on the homepage of our website. Forms to request information about vocations and the Associate Program have been added. The Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) section has been expanded to include information regarding the Anti-Racism Committee (ARC), human trafficking and Earth-friendly ideas. Something we are truly looking forward to is the offering of E-Cards for a few occasions that will be available soon via our website. So, please take a few minutes to check out the new information on our website at www. jolietfranciscans.org. We are admittedly late with this issue, but I think you will see that we are starting to evolve the look of it. We are happy to have Father Jim Lennon’s long relationship with the Sisters highlighted in our “Connections” piece.
Nan Nagl Father Jim has known the Sisters since they were his teachers as a young boy. Now he visits with them regularly at Our Lady of Angels, serves as celebrant at many of the Congregation’s liturgies, and, with his signature sense of humor, leaves everyone whose path he crosses with a smile. We are looking for “Connections” stories, so share yours with us.
Nan Nagl Director of Mission Advancement
I want to close by thanking you for your support. There are many who send a note along with a donation saying they wish it could be more. Please know that there are no small donations! We appreciate them all. The Sisters have also been the recipients of some estate gifts this year. When an individual remembers the Sisters in an estate plan, it signals that the role the Sisters played in that person’s life was something special – something to be remembered. As more of our Sisters retire, the additional financial support is greatly appreciated. With that, I hope you have your favorite sweater ready for crisp and colorful fall days! Until next time, enjoy the miracle of each new day.
Sister Dolores continues: can reach their greatest potential through education. Sister Jeanne is the president of De Paul Cristo Rey (DPCR) High School in Cincinnati. She began this school from the ground up by finding a building, hiring faculty and staff, and working with the business community to establish a work-study program for students. Now beginning its sixth year, DPCR has seen two graduating classes with all students accepted into college. It has been an eventful time for us these past months. In all that we do, you are with us through your spiritual and financial support. You are remembered in my prayers and I am grateful for your presence in the lives of the Joliet Franciscans. I send you best wishes for a beautiful autumn filled with the beauty only our Creator can provide. Peace and all good,
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New 2016-2020 Central Administration: Sisters MJ Griffin, Lourdes Boyer, Dolores Zemont, Rosemary Fonck and Barb Kwiatkowski.
Installation of Central Administration On Saturday, June 25, during the Eucharistic Liturgy in the chapel of Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home, the members of the 2016-2020 Central Administration read the oaths in front of Sisters, Associates, family and friends. Sisters and Associates affirmed the oaths and, with raised hands, sang the “Blessing of St. Francis.” Sister Dolores Zemont begins her second consecutive term as the Congregation’s President. Joining her is Sister Rosemary Fonck, serving as Councilor and Vice President. Sister Rosemary returns to Joliet after an eight-year ministry in Alabama, working with people in that state’s poorest county. Sister MJ Griffin has served three consecutive terms as General Treasurer and will serve the next four years in that position, as well as that of Councilor. Sister Barbara Kwiatkowski joins the leadership team, having recently served in campus ministry for five years at Joliet Catholic Academy. Sister Lourdes Boyer begins a third term as the Congregation’s General Secretary, a position she has held for the past eight years.
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Excerpts from their Oaths of Office Sr. Dolores Zemont: “I accept the call to servant leadership as President of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate and I promise to serve with love, dedication and faithfulness, with all that I have to give, and to walk with you, my Sisters and Associates, in the footprints of Francis, Clare and Mother Alfred.”
Sr. Rosemary Fonck: “I want to be a minister of peace, joy, listening and care to the Central Administration, to my Sisters in the Franciscan Congregation, to all our Associates and to each person with whom I’ll come in contact.”
Sr. MJ Griffin: “I promise you, my Sisters, as your Councilor and General Treasurer to serve the mission of Jesus, following the footsteps of Mary, Francis, Clare and Mother Alfred, as a witness for peace and reconciliation and to steward those resources entrusted to my care for our life and legacy as Sisters in mission.”
Sr. Barbara Kwiatkowski: “May God bless me with a listening ear, a generous heart and the wisdom of the Holy Spirit as I strive to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and follow the example of Francis and Clare.”
Sr. Lourdes Boyer: “With confidence in a God who is everpresent and encouraged by a community of Sisters and Associates who walk with me, I assume the duties of General Secretary. Together may we further the hopes and dreams we share.” 5
Our Jubilarians Jubilee is always one of the highlights of the year for the Congregation. Although the group of five Jubilarians is smaller than others in recent years, these Sisters have made an impact on the people with whom their lives have intersected. We are grateful for who they are and for what they have contributed to the Kingdom of God. Following are excerpts from their jubilee stories. Read more about these Sisters at: http://www.jolietfranciscans.org/our-jubilarians/
80th Jubilarian - Sister Judith Kurry Sister Judith was raised in Sts. Peter and Paul parish in Chicago and attended the school in which our Sisters taught. She attended St. Francis Academy (now Joliet Catholic Academy) and the College of St. Francis (now the University of St. Francis). One of the special memories in ministry that Sister Judith carries with her is helping the young children at the Franciscan Learning Center. She was glad she could serve in this way and did so for 26 years before her retirement. Sister Judith especially enjoyed the programs performed by the children, as well as working with Sr. Margaret McGuckin and Sr. Carol Jander, the school’s codirectors. One aspect of living the Franciscan religious life that touches Sr. Judith is the part where “we are meant to do things together.” 6
The Joliet Franciscan
60th Jubilarian - Sister Mary Jean Morris Sister Mary Jean says, “I think that I was born Franciscan! Both my parents were active members of the Secular Franciscan Order at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in Joliet, a parish staffed by Franciscan Priests, Brothers and Sisters, all of whom were very influential in my life. My aunt was a Poor Clare Sister in Rockford, Illinois. As an infant, I was passed around a circle of Poor Clares so they could take their turns holding me and praying for me. St. Francis Academy (now Joliet Catholic Academy) offered a greater exposure to the Joliet Franciscan Sisters. The Sisters encouraged confidence, creative thinking, Franciscan spirituality and prayer.” Having completed two years of initial formation as a Joliet Franciscan, and two years of college at the College of Saint Francis (University of St. Francis) Sister Mary Jean professed her first vows in August 1956. Because of the need for teachers and the availability of a Cadet Teaching Certificate, she began her first year of teaching at St. Mary’s School in Des Plaines, Illinois. A class of 67 second grade students was both a teaching challenge and an adventure. Sister Mary Jean taught at a number of schools in both Illinois and Ohio. Sister Mary Jean received her Master’s degree in Religious Studies and served as Director of Religious Education at St. Michael Parish in Canfield, Ohio, before beginning service as a member of the Sisters’ General Council. She served for four years in Initial Formation before heading to Youngstown, Ohio, to serve as a Pastoral Minister for Sacred Heart Parish. Nine more years in Congregation leadership followed. She then spent the next 10 years serving with the Glenmary Home Missioners as a pastoral leader in a small rural church in Bruce, Mississippi. Her farewell was held at the United Methodist Church to accommodate the crowd. Sr. Mary Jean then returned to Joliet to serve the Congregation as the Director of Initial Formation, where she continues today.
60th Jubilarian - Sister Joanne Marusa The oldest of five girls, Sister Joanne grew up in Cleveland and attended St. Procop elementary and high school where the Joliet Franciscans were teachers. During the school year she did “church work” which meant cleaning the church, running errands for the Sisters, selling candy at recess, singing in the choir, and washing the many porch windows of the convent. She also joined the sodality and generally “showed up” when needed. Sister Joanne says, “I think that the Franciscan spirit/living nourishes personal qualities that are already present in each and every person and gives them a name such as Franciscan; attention to gospel living; service to the poor; hospitality; loyalty to the church; devotion to the Eucharist; devotion to our Mother Mary, etc. That is why Franciscan living has such a broad appeal to people of all walks of life and varied interests. In the peace prayer attributed to Francis he asks to be an ‘instrument,’ a reflection of various aspects of God. Francis said he had done what was his to do and set us free to do what we are called to do. In this way our differences come together in harmony and Franciscan living.”
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50th Jubilarian - Sister Patricia Skowronski As she celebrates 50 years as a Joliet Franciscan Sister, Sister Pat hopes that she has been able to share the joy and simplicity of a very much loved saint with the many people she has had the privilege of working beside each day, sharing the “ups and downs” of life and giving one another support along the journey. As she looks back over her 50 years of religious life, Sister Pat has special memories of meeting and working with so many dedicated groups of people from various faith communities. She enjoyed their stories and the challenges they met in raising families. When she was in second grade, Sister Pat’s mother taught her to embroider, a hobby she still enjoys today. Whether it’s counted cross stitch or some other form of needlework, creating a work of art such as this relaxes and renews her spirit.
50th Jubilarian - Sister Margaret Noser Sister Margaret has served in Brazil for more than 40 years. She says, “God calls us in so many different ways of missioning. My fifty years in religious life took me to so many different communities. It has always been both a challenge and an adventure and each place has helped me to grow into the next. My experiences in Kentucky and then in Chicago helped prepare me for the adventure of Brazil. I was graced with circumstances of being among the people who always became my teachers.” Sister Margaret shares that at most of the places she served she has learned that you do not have to have much to be happy and wise. With God’s guidance and the inspiration of Francis, Clare and Mother Alfred, she came to know how to put herself into Jesus’ hands and let Him carry her. Living and sharing with the younger Sisters in formation in Brazil, she has felt the loving and wise presence of the Spirit. Many times she did not know what to say but the Spirit was always with her. If things did not go well, she knew that she needed to be more open. This is what these young women taught her. Being with them, she knew she had to embrace religious life with passion. Sister Margaret goes on to say, “This is what I feel is being Franciscan in the world today. As Francis learned through his experiences and was a presence of Jesus wherever he went, as Clare, even though she was cloistered, courageously struggled to make the world better, and as Mother Alfred saw the needs of the times and acted, we too must be this presence of peace and love in a world where most people worry only about getting ahead. To be a sister to all those we meet and to be a presence that makes a difference, is the grace and adventure of religious life today. I believe that we must be in the world but not of the world. Even in the darkness of these times; we can be the lanterns that light our lives, the lives of our sisters and brothers who surround us. It is God’s light that we reflect and together we will make the world a better place.”
Read more about these Sisters at: http://www.jolietfranciscans.org/our-jubilarians/
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The Joliet Franciscan
Happy 100 thBirthday, Sister Mary! It’s not every day that one celebrates a 100th Birthday with a surprise party. On May 23, 2016, Sister Mary Franz did just that. In fact, she’ll tell you, she had 3 parties! On Saturday, May 21, Sister Mary was given a surprise birthday party planned by her niece, Sister Mary Rose Lieb, who lives in Denver, Colorado. Sister Mary’s guests included Sisters of the community, family, residents at OLA and friends who came from Ohio, Pennsylvania and Denver. She had a wonderful time and enjoyed eating cake (with no candles) and visiting with all present. The following Monday, her actual birthday, Sister Mary had two more parties. Among the guests were Joliet Mayor Bob O’Dekirk, State Senator Pat McGuire and Bishop Daniel Conlon, Bishop of Joliet. Born in Ohio, Sister Mary (formerly known as Sister Ursuline) is a resident at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home in Joliet where she offers a “ministry of presence” to other residents by visiting, talking and praying with them. Sister Mary was a teacher for many years in elementary schools, high schools and at the College of St. Francis (now the University of St. Francis). She also served as Director of Postulants for many years. Sheila Torres, a postulant with the Sisters while Sister Mary served as director, shares this remembrance: “She was so loving to all of us, like another mother. When she hugged you, you felt her warm and sincere embrace. She was firm when she needed to be to teach us about our responsibilities, but we knew she loved us and cared for us. The one thing I took with me from my days at St. Francis was the Franciscan joy in all of the Sisters of the community, and that started with Sister Mary’s ever-present smile and joy in her own vocation and instilling that joy in her postulants.” While serving in various cities in Ohio, Sister Mary began working in pastoral ministry, which included
RCIA, visiting the home-bound and hospitalized, and the founding of a bereavement group. Sister Mary enjoys telling stories from her life. Recently, she shared a time when she was driving somewhere with four Sr. Mary holds her proclamation from the State of Illinois. other Sisters. She admits she might have been driving a little too fast and was pulled over by a policeman. Needless to say, her companions were a little nervous. Instead of a ticket, the policeman gave Sister Mary this piece of advice: “Sister, say a prayer and slow down!” Look through her congregation folder and you will find certificates for workshops attended, certificates of appreciation from many organizations for her hours of volunteerism, newspaper clippings about involvement in community and parishes, as well as letters and other documents she has written over the years. At age 95, Sister Mary was asked to participate in a panel discussion regarding vocations. Although she was unable to do so at that time, she sent a letter which covered different chapters of her religious life. Sister Mary closes her letter with these words. “Even though I am in my mid-nineties and have retired from active duties, I can still - in the spirit of St. Francis - serve and minister to those around me. That part of me continues as long as our good and faithful God gifts me to be for those in need! I try to live in the present NOW.
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Connections by Lucy Sanchez
Meet Father James Lennon. He has been a longtime friend of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters. Though now retired, after serving for 58 years as a parish priest in the Diocese of Joliet, it is very hard to track him down to ask him to speak at any of our events. If you take one look at his calendar, you will note that there is not one empty space available in which to scribble. He is already booked months in advance! Father Jim attended the Cathedral of St. Raymond Grade School in Joliet, Illinois, which was staffed by the Joliet Franciscan Sisters. It was here that he met and formed a special bond with Sister Kathleen Kirk. “She was my 2nd grade teacher,” said Father Jim. “She was a young Sister at that time and I remember she always had a happy heart and she was always willing to walk the extra mile for her students.” Father Jim was ordained in 1958 and celebrated his first Mass at the Cathedral. He also credits Sister Verdiana, who was the principal at that time, for helping him. On most days, Father Jim starts his day praying the rosary while jumping on a small trampoline. “It is relaxing and I am doing exercise at the same time!” After reciting the Office and other prayers, he then spends some quiet time with the Lord. Depending on the day of the week, he visits with patients in area hospitals to administer the sacrament of the sick, celebrates Mass at different parishes for priests on vacation, or heads over to either have Mass or spend time at area nursing homes. He particularly loves Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home because, as he put it, “OLA is my second home and I am energized by the Sisters and I love the people there!” While the Sisters remain a very important part of Father Jim’s life, he also makes time to lead spiritual conferences, retreats, parish missions and mentor younger priests as well. Sister Paula Bingert, OSF, stops to speak with Father Jim after his Retreat at Our Lady of Angels.
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The Joliet Franciscan
During our conversation, I asked Father Jim if there was a special memory during his time as a priest that made an impact on him. He said there was one that really stood
Father Jim always has a smile on his face and a ready ear. Sister Leomarie Luecke spends some time with Father Jim.
out in his mind. “It was way back in the 1960s. I was at a nearby parish. At 3 o’clock in the morning, two policemen came to the rectory to tell me that 3 boys had been killed in an auto accident. The policemen asked if I would accompany them to tell their parents of this tragedy. What I remember the most about this incident, was when we were about to leave, one mother asked if I would stay to have a cup of coffee with them. Fifty years later, I received a letter from a lady who said she was the younger sister of one of the deceased boys. She told me that she was a youngster at the time when I had come to their house to tell them about her brother dying. She went on to say that both of her parents had since died. She told me that my presence that morning had truly helped her parents during that very difficult period, and she remembered that I had stayed for coffee. She then told me that since that day, they had continued to pray for me all of these years. They had continued to pray for me!” Father Jim will tell you that he is grateful that he has been able to celebrate the lives of people in many
different ways. “I am glad to be able to be with those who are celebrating and those who are going through deep sorrow and grief. God is truly merciful and we are so loved by Him,” said Father Jim. Through his retirement, his mission remains the same – to continue to bring the message of the peace and joy of Christ to all.
Father Jim is joined by Le Anne Tjelle, Director of Mission and Spirituality at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home.
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The Associate Journey Hospitality - Our Franciscan Trait by Nancy Davis There is something in the walls of a Franciscan institution. Something that says “Welcome!” Liz Collins, who was then an Associate candidate, walked into JFC for the first time last fall and said, “As soon as I walked in, I felt so warmly welcome.” Might it have been Associate and Receptionist Helen Lawson’s friendliness added to Sr. Juanita’s warm greeting who just happened to be in the entrance? Liz had never been in a Franciscan institution before and as she sat down she told me she already felt at home. Nancy Davis served as an usher during Jubilee.
Maybe it’s the feng shui—the atmosphere one feels stepping inside a Franciscan-sponsored building. Some organizations spend thousands and thousands of dollars creating the “right” environment; it seems that our Franciscans just have it—with little to no effort. Hospitality can be defined as a welcoming spirit, an infusing of warmth and comfort, a greeting that often leaves one feeling hugged. Franciscans just have it: the Frankfort Sisters have it; the Wheaton Sisters have it, and each expresses it a bit differently. I particularly warm to the Joliet Franciscans, but I am fairly biased. For all the years I have known the Sisters, I can truly say hospitality has always been there. I remember visiting the Motherhouse in the early years after I left the convent, and being greeted as if I was the most important person in the world. That is gracious! The smiles! The out-of-their-way greetings! Even the wallpaper, the bulletin boards, the reception rooms all invited a sense of welcome. I was chatting with Sister Bernard Marie the other day and thanking her for attending the Associate-sponsored activities. Sister is newly home to Joliet after spending many years in Ohio and hasn’t missed an event that we have sponsored. Her response: “I make it a point to attend all events where I am invited.”
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The Joliet Franciscan
I often feel like an expectant father waiting for the delivery of a baby when I send out a request or an invite. A response is comforting and sent almost spontaneously by most Sisters. I can count on Sisters Mary Fran Seeley and Vivian Whitehead as being the first to respond to an invitation, either by email or phone call. As one whose work depends on the responses of others, I am most grateful to the Sisters and Associates who respond to an email or an invite. I don’t take it personally when someone does not respond, but I do when they respond. Whether the individual accepts the invitation or not, I feel my efforts to touch a person have been recognized. It feels so welcoming! And so Franciscan! Now visiting the homes of Associates for Regional Group meetings and well-being visits, I sense the same spirit. And for those who have experienced Associate Ann O’Brien’s ministry of hospitality, one knows what gracious, welcoming and loving Franciscan hospitality is! Franciscan-minded people are greeters, welcomers, responders, and peoplecentered human beings. Hospitality is alive and well among Joliet Franciscan Sisters and Associates.
Meet the New Director of Associates In her letter to Sisters and Associates, Sister Dolores announced the appointment of Darcy Mason as the new Director of Associates beginning June 1, 2016. Darcy assumes this position following Nancy Davis, who served as the Interim Director of Associates for the past year. Darcy has been an Associate of the Congregation since 2012. She brings a great love for the Congregation and the Associate Relationship as well as many years of experience volunteering in various spiritual programs at her parish of St. Mary Church in Mokena, Illinois. Darcy has been married to her husband Bob for 42 years and they have one adult daughter. She has been employed at the same dental office for 28 of her 44 year career as a Registered Dental Hygienist, though Darcy now sees patients on a part-time basis.
Darcy Mason Director of Associates
“As Director of Associates, I will continue building on the foundation initiated last year by Nancy Davis and the Associate Leadership Council (ALC),” said Darcy. Her focus will be to continue to companion Sisters and Associates; encourage and support the Congregation’s ministries; assist with the Regional Groups and to continue communication at all levels, whether by live-stream, website or through the Associate newsletter. In her article for the Associate newsletter, “The Companion,” Darcy thanked Nancy Davis not only for serving as Interim Director, but for her counsel and support during this transition. She ended by saying to all Associates, “I ask for your prayers, support and, most of all, for sharing your many gifts and talents – as we build upon the past and move forward led by the Spirit as Franciscan Associates.”
Seven Associates Welcomed into the Associate Relationship On a beautiful Sunday morning, the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate welcomed 7 new Associates into the Associate Relationship. From left to right are: Rosemary Zemlo, Elizabeth Collins, Ruth Rohan, Jeanne Giambrone, Wendy Weishaar, Carol Baranski and Susan Rockett. They made their commitment in front of a large gathering of Sisters, Associates, family and friends at the USF Motherhouse Chapel. These women, along with 6 new Associates in Brazil, make a total of 156 Associates in our Associate Relationship.
Are you interested in learning more about the Associate Relationship? Please contact Darcy Mason, Director of Associates at dmason@jolietfranciscans.org or by phone at 815-725-8735 x128. Or visit our website at www.jolietfranciscans.org for more information. 13
Sister Sharon Frederick and Sister Sandi Salois stand outside of Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home
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Meet Our Ministry In our “Meet My Ministry” section we usually highlight a Sister who writes her own story about her ministry. Since we have three Joliet Franciscan Sisters ministering at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home (OLA), we asked each of them to write about her ministry. At the time of publication, both Sister Sharon and Sister Sandi have moved into new ministries. However, we wanted to give them the opportunity to share their story as well. All three of these Sisters have been at OLA for many years, and they have done a wonderful job with the Sisters in residence there. Both Sisters Sharon and Sandi were Local Coordinators at OLA; Sister Jane continues as the Spiritual Life Coordinator. Currently we have 50 Sisters living at OLA. Sister Sharon Frederick: “I have been at OLA for over 5 years. As a coordinator at OLA (in former terms, ‘superior’) my ministry, simply put, is to try to meet the needs of the Sisters who now call OLA, ‘home.’ What isn’t so simple, I have found, is the physical and mental stamina that it takes to accomplish what I am called to do. The needs are many – 14
The Joliet Franciscan
whether I am visiting a Sister in her room and listening to her story, accompanying a Sister to the emergency room in the middle of the night, fulfilling a myriad of requests, or being a companion for the Sister who needs to see her physician. On a daily basis, everything is important, and everything contributes to the well-being of that Sister.
From left to right are Sisters Sandi Salois and Rose Spatny; Sisters Mary Franz, Mary Agnes Cross and Jane Nienaber; Sisters Sylvia Post and Sharon Frederick.
“Our Sisters come to live at OLA for many reasons. Before coming to OLA, our Sisters were educators, social service workers, nurses, pastoral associates, counselors and other ministeries too numerous to mention. They gave their lives for the mission of the Congregation and the Church. Now they find it necessary to begin yet another ministry: that of praying for the world and individuals, and engaging in some activity that keeps their own spirits alive with joy and hope. Usually a Sister will come to OLA because of age, or she finds that she no longer is capable of taking care of herself, or she is faced with overwhelming health issues, or perhaps needing respite care after a surgery. No matter what the reason, moving to OLA is a major decision in each Sister’s life, and most assuredly involves a grieving process. Loss of independence, letting go of a particular item that cannot be taken along, or, if a Sister is coming from a distance, having to say goodbye to family and friends is extremely difficult. As part of my ministry, I try to ease that process by making the Sisters comfortable in their new surroundings, and hopefully, to feel at home as much as possible. As you can imagine, it is quite an adjustment for them. I want our Sisters to know that they are loved and that we are there for them. Easy? No. Worth it? A resounding yes!” Sister Sandi Salois: “My ministry as an OLA Local Coordinator for the past 8 years has been filled with surprises, challenges, many blessings, sharing of wisdom, fun, laughter, growth and love. We are involved with heart to heart talks, calls in the night to go to the ER, belly laughs, parties, moving a Sister from one room to another, sharing joyful moments, prayers, providing a doctor companion for those who need one,
funerals and much more. My growth in understanding others, myself and my ministry has increased tremendously. I see beauty in each face as we deal with the realities of loss, grief, anger, fear, acceptance and death. It is a privilege to journey with our Sisters in such transitions. “Learning how to set boundaries, I serve the Sisters the best I can. I have learned what kinds of things need to be attended to immediately and what can wait. I pray each day that I may do that ‘which is mine to do.’ The laughter that comes from being totally interested in the Sisters is carefree. I often find myself saying, ‘We’re in it together!’ That’s what I believe. We are Sisters to each other and we share life in Jesus.”
Sisters Jane Nienaber and Mary Agnes Cross recite the daily prayers from the Franciscan Prayer Book.
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Sister Jane Nienaber’s ministry is a little different from the other two coordinators in that she primarily responds to the spiritual needs of the Sisters. Her responsibilities include offering spiritual support at the time of serious illness and end-of-life; coordinating the prayer service and liturgy at time of a funeral; and organizing the annual spiritual retreat; Lenten series and other prayer services that are offered throughout the year. She also visits Sisters who are hospitalized, helps the Local Coordinators promote wholesome living for the Sister residents, works on various inhouse celebrations, including jubilees and gatherings, and assists with on-call duties.
me going is the realization that we all need to be surrounded by individuals who care about us and love us. My goal is to be that person for others, for my Sisters in religious life about whom I care deeply.” Sr. Sandi: “Our Sisters have such a special place in my heart. I have learned so much from them and I see it as a privilege to be with them as we share our journeys of life.”
Sr. Jane: “The liturgical composer, Marty Haugen, captures this so well in his song, We are Many Parts: We are many parts, we are all one body and the gifts we have we are given to share...” I have had the opportunity to share my gifts and to experience the many gifts which the Sister Jane NienaSisters at OLA share in ber: “Most of my 55 their unseen kindnesses years of working as a to other residents, in religious have been in their times of joy and illLeft: Sisters Sandi Salois, Bernard Marie Campbell, Sharon schools, parishes and Frederick, Phyllis Pitz, Jacki Hirsch and Mary Ann Clark. ness, in the experiences hospitals. The opportuof transitions and letting nities to work at OLA go, and in their lives of have been very enriching and blessed. Almost 30 acceptance, gratitude and peace. Ministry here at OLA years ago, when I saw Our Lady of Angels for the is such a treasure. I am filled with love and gratitude for first time, I felt the hope of someday ministering each Sister. there. The adage of ‘be careful what you wish for’ has been a powerful and positive experience in my life. I have developed a deeper sense of belonging by getting to know the Sisters better and developing relationships. I especially treasure these 8 years at OLA for they feel like an investment in my Joliet Franciscan family, especially the opportunity to be able to be with community members and share time and talent through service. How has their ministry at OLA changed your life and what keeps you going? Sister Sharon: “What keeps me going is the smile on a Sister’s face when her anxiety is relieved because she does not have to walk alone through a major health issue or a relative’s death. What keeps
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During Jubilee, the OLA Coordinators accompany the Sister jubilarians to their celebration. Here are Sisters Judith and Sandi at the Jubilee Mass.
Sister Martha Kienzler hands Sister Odelia Kloc a copy of the new Corporate Stance during the ceremony.
Sisters Accept New Corporate Stance on Racism On Sunday, August 14, in the chapel at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home in Joliet, the Joliet Franciscan Sisters held a Ritual of Acceptance of a new Corporate Stance on Anti-Racism. The Anti-Racism Committee (ARC) was created in 2012. The committee members are a racially diverse group consisting of Sisters and members of the Joliet community. ARC's activities to date include multiple presentations to Sisters, Associates, sponsored institution administrations, faculties and boards, as well as the Social Justice Coalition of the Joliet Diocese. The committee has participated in the Bluestem Earth Festival held each May, presented a reflection at the Spring 2015 Prayer Breakfast hosted by the Mission Advancement office, and offered a prayer service at the Joliet Franciscan Center in commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 2015. The goal is to offer presentations elsewhere within the Joliet area and beyond.
Read more about ARC on our website: www.jolietfranciscans.org/arc/
The new Corporate Stance states: "We, Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, commit to a stance of AntiRacism. As we take this position, we promise to make conscious intentional efforts to eradicate racism in all its forms - individual, cultural and institutional."
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Sister Eileen (Rose Francis) Bannon, OSF Sister Eileen Bannon passed into eternal life on Sunday, October 6, 2015, at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home. She was 94 years of age. Sister Eileen became a postulant in 1940 and entered the Novitiate in 1941, receiving the name Sister Rose Francis. She made her first vows in 1943 and final vows in 1946. She embarked on a teaching ministry at high schools in Illinois and Ohio, as well as the College of St. Francis (now the University of St. Francis). Theater is something Sister Eileen greatly loved. She was able to use her talent for theater and drama by directing plays and moderating drama clubs. One former student wrote that Sister Eileen “used just enough drama to get her point across.”
Sister i Eileen il Bannon
Born July 15, 1921 Postulancy September 4, 1940 Novitiate August 12, 1941 First Profession August 12, 1943
Sister Eileen had a desire burning deep within her which would soon take her to a new path. After making several retreats at the Jesuit Retreat House in Barrington, Illinois, Sister Eileen wrote:” I began a journey which led to an intimate experience of God… I fully recognized the giftedness of God.” She became a core member of the St. Clare House of Prayer in 1988, which was then located in Kankakee, Illinois. She spent several months at the Jesuit Spiritual Direction Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, which allowed her to open herself fully to those whom she would guide to a deeper relationship with God. Sister Eileen moved to Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home in 2008. She continued to deal with a hearing loss and eventually speech would leave her as well. But through her ministries, Sister Eileen left an indelible mark on the hearts and souls of those whose lives she touched.
Final Profession August 12, 1946 Entered New Life October 6, 2015 Sister Eileen loved to teach and loved to seek God in nature.
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Sister M. Karla Zdenek, OSF Sister Karla Zdenek passed into eternal life on Sunday, May 8, at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home. She was 86 years of age. Sister Karla was a Joliet Franciscan Sister for more than 65 years. She became a postulant in 1947, was received into the Novitiate the following year and professed her first vows in 1950. She was a grade school teacher for 33 years in several states.
Sister M. Karla Zdenek
In 1983, Sister Karla began serving as a receptionist at the Sisters’ Motherhouse as well as a driver for any Sister needing transportation services. She was also involved with the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program sponsored by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Joliet. Over the next 16 years, she provided more than 15,000 hours of volunteer service to enhance the quality of life for people who needed assistance with transportation in order to continue living independently.
Born December 14,1929
Celebrating her 60th Jubilee in June of 2010, Sr. Karla recalled her many experiences of mission and ministry, highlighting the ways in which her own experience of vocation had been shaped by her awareness of the needs of others.
Postulancy September 13, 1947
Sister Karla made a difference in the many lives she touched. May she rest in peace and let perpetual light shine upon her.
Novitiate August 12, 1948 First Profession August 12, 1950 Final Profession August 13, 1953 Entered New Life May 8, 2016
In 2010, Sister Karla celebrated her 60th Jubilee. She is photographed with two other Jubilarians, (from Left) Sister Leomarie Luecke (50th jubilarian) and Sister David Ann Hoy (60th jubilarian).
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Sister M. Bernadette Sifferlin, OSF Sister Bernadette Sifferlin passed into eternal life on Sunday, June 26, at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home. She was 91 years of age. Born in Shelby, Ohio, and, like many “Shelby girls” who came before and after her, Sister Bernadette made the decision to become a Joliet Franciscan Sister. She became a postulant in 1948 and entered the Novitiate in August of that year. In 1950, Sister Bernadette made her first profession of vows and over the next 12 years enjoyed a ministry of teaching in Ohio and Illinois. In 1962, at the direction of Mother Borromeo, Sister Bernadette began working toward a Master’s Degree in Business Administration at the University of Notre Dame.
Sister M. Bernadette Sifferlin
Born May 12, 1925 Postulancy January 31, 1948 Novitiate August 12, 1948 First Profession August 12, 1950
She became Assistant to the Congregation’s General Treasurer, a position she held for nine years. In 1972 she was elected to the Congregation’s Governing Board and served as a Councilor and Area Coordinator. She became General Treasurer of the Congregation in 1976, serving in that position for the next 20 years. Making the most of her senior years in ministry, Sr. Bernadette served as the Secretary and Receptionist for St. Jude Parish in Joliet from 1996 through 2005. Awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters by the University of St. Francis in 1999, Sr. Bernadette was recognized for the leadership she offered in so many arenas of life. Moving to Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home in 2006, Sister Bernadette began yet another chapter in her life as she enthusiastically committed herself to the ministries of presence and prayer. As a resident at OLA, Sister Bernadette ministered to the other residents by visiting and praying with them, as well as through her friendly smile as she traveled the halls. Sister Bernadette is remembered for her courage, her creativity, her wisdom and, most of all, her capacity to inspire others to recognize that all is gift and that everyone is responsible for being a steward of the graces that God has bestowed upon us to share for the good of all. May she rest in peace and let perpetual light shine upon her.
Final Profession August 13, 1953 Entered New Life June 26, 2016
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Sister Bernadette was Bitz and Dottie Brown’s Companion Sister for many years. This photograph was taken during the Franciscan Autumn Feast in 2010 when Bitz and Dottie received the Franciscan Heritage Award.
Sister M. Peter Didier, OSF Sister Peter Didier passed into eternal life on Monday, June 27, at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home. She was 95 years of age.
Sister M. Peter Didier
Born Apri 18, 1921 Postulancy September 5, 1939 Novitiate August 12, 1940
Sister Peter was one of 15 children, four of whom became Joliet Franciscan Sisters. In addition to Sister Peter, Sister Johanna, Sister Mary Therese, and Sister Ambrose, all now deceased, were members of the Congregation. Sister Peter became a postulant in 1939, entered the Novitiate in 1940 and made her first profession of vows in 1942. She was a teacher for several years before being commissioned by Mother Immaculate to begin the study of nursing. In 1950, Sister Peter entered St. Joseph College of Nursing, eventually beginning to minister as a nurse in the Motherhouse infirmary. When Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home opened in 1962, Sister Peter entered another phase of life as nurse, mentor, supervisor and, eventually, Director of Nursing. Recognized by the Illinois Health Care Association as a “Hero in Long Term Care” and fondly regarded by the family members of loved ones for whom she cared, in some cases, generation after generation, Sr. Peter set a very high standard for what it meant to be a nurse and, even more importantly, a Franciscan Sister. When she “retired” in 1998, Sister Peter became a resident at OLA, where she enjoyed the ministry of prayer, presence and compassion. She also enjoyed playing Bingo and, as a loyal Chicago Cubs fan her entire life, enjoyed watching their games on television and sharing her views of the team with other fans. If the Cubs make it to the World Series this year, we are sure that Sister Peter will have the best seat in the house!
First Profession August 12, 1942 Final Profession August 12, 1945 Entered New Life June 27, 2016
Sister Peter celebrated her 75th Jubilee in 2015 with classmates (from left) Sister Felicity (Joy) Gaffney and Sister Therese Greaney.
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Diana Hambrook
Diana Hambrook became an Associate in May, 1995. Diana was inspired by the sense of community and spiritual comfort she felt when with Sisters Phyllis Wilhelm and Miriam Patrice Tierney and the Bayfield Associates. Sister Phyllis, who became her Companion, described her as one who “brings love, friendship, faith and laughter,” to a gathering. Sister Miriam Patrice portrayed her as a woman of service and “willing to help in any way.” Diana was described “as a woman of deep faith who speaks freely about the importance of prayer in her life.” Diana served as a Eucharistic Minister, was a member of the Holy Family Care Group and worked as a nurse at the Red Cliff Health Center. Later she moved to Minnesota and worked at the Soteria Family Health Center. Diana died on September 21, 2015. Diana’s Companion was Sister Phyllis Wilhelm.
Margaret Ann Goode
Margaret (Marge) Goode became an Associate in November, 1989. A native of Ohio, Marge spent a lifetime there in nursing and counseling. She became a registered nurse and received a Master’s Degree in Nursing and a PhD in Counseling. Speaking of her patients and others she met through the years, she said, “I especially enjoyed helping others to help themselves. I find that I grow as I help others grow.” Her sister, Agnes (the late Sister Agnes Goode), described her as always “concerned with the problems of people.” Margaret felt a sense of mutuality with our Sisters and, at age 90, expressed her gratitude for the years she spent with them “sharing mutual concerns.” Marge died on September 25, 2015. Marge’s Companion was Sister Rita Schmitz.
Helen Lyons
Helen Lyons became an Associate in May, 1992 and described it as “coming home to my roots.” Joliet-raised, she was proud of her Franciscan education at St. Raymond’s, St. Francis Academy and the College of St. Francis and spoke fondly of the Sisters. Helen was an elementary and special education teacher in Joliet. When she retired she tutored language arts at Guardian Angel Home. After her husband, Michael, died in 2007, she moved to Denver to be closer to three of her six children.
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Helen Lyons - continued People who knew Helen well described her as “calm, generous and conscientious...quick to offer a smile of recognition...authentic, enthusiastic with genuine conviction...capable coworker in building the Kingdom.” It is fitting that she is once again “coming home to her roots.” Helen died on March 8, 2016. Her Companion was Sister Lucille Adelmann.
June Shawler
June Shawler became an Associate in May, 1998. Before her illness, she was very active in her parish, serving on the RCIA team, working in the parish’s Homeless Project and frequently serving as a sacristan. She ran a day care center from her home. People who knew June describe her as having “good humor, simplicity and openness to God.” June died on March 19, 2016. Her Companion was Sister Mary Franz.
Virginia Gendek Virginia (Ginny) Gendek became an Associate in December, 1979, but was truly a Franciscan all of her life. She briefly joined the Congregation as a novice but returned home to care for her parents. Ginny was always the first to volunteer. For many years she was the driver for the Sisters. Once her parents died, she asked to become an Associate. She wrote, “I always wanted to help the Sisters. I wanted to be a Sister, but the illness of my mom kept me out for many years and then dad’s sickness and death. But now I am free once again to fulfill that wish and dream from my heart and soul as an Associate.” Ginny died on July 14, 2016. Her Companion was Sister Jeanette Willenborg.
Rev. Mark A. Fracaro Fr. Mark Fracaro became an Associate on July 26, 1987. From a young age, his parents instilled within him a strong sense of service, as well as his love of film, theater and dance that endeared him to so many friends and acquaintances throughout his life. Fr. Mark began to hear his call to the priesthood, and he was ordained in 1967. In the mid-1980s, he became associated with the Sisters of St. Francis while teaching at St. Francis Academy. He celebrated Mass at the St. Clare House of Prayer in Kankakee and volunteered at the Upper Room Crisis Hotline. He felt he was always a Franciscan at heart. Father Mark died on September 6, 2016. His Companion was Sister Mary Frances Seeley.
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“God is the light that illuminates the darkness, even if it does not dissolve it, and a spark of divine light is within each of us.� - Pope Francis
Coming in 2017
Afternoon Tea Jacob Henry Mansion May 7, 2017 2:00 PM
Bluestem Earth Festival University of St. Francis May 20, 2017 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Joliet Franciscan Center - 1433 Essington Rd More info at: www.jolietfranciscans.org