Confinanca Magazine Spring, 2012

Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate

confianรงa a Portuguese word meaning faith and trust.

Journeys SPRING 2012

A Welcome from Sister Mary Rose Dear Friends, Have you ever noticed all the phrases we use that reference time? “Time flies.”

“Time stood still.” “Take your time.” “Time waits for no one.” I think we can all agree that whether time is flying or standing still, it is how we use the gift of time that matters most.

Since th the llastt ti time I welcomed you to an issue of Confiança, so much has happened in our Congregation. We Si l witnessed Sister Débora de Castro Alves make her Final Profession of Vows in Brazil. We welcomed Elizabeth Bach Luong, an Associate since 2002, to the Congregation’s Affiliate Program. This is a preparation stage for possibly entering the Congregation’s novitiate and beginning a new life journey in our Franciscan way of life.

Eleven of our Associates traveled to Alabama to work with Sisters Rosemary Fonck and Kathy Salewski who minister to individuals and families living in one of the poorest areas of our country. And just a few weeks later, fourteen men and women made their commitments as Associates of the Congregation in April.

Three of our Sisters – Sister Jean Lenz, Sister Johanna Didier and Sister M. Martin Hornak – and Associate Eugenia Bank ended their time on earth and began a new everlasting life.

And the Congregation met in General Chapter in April. Our Chapter theme was “Renew, Rebuild, Rebirth.”

This was a time of prayer, discussion, and the opportunity to gather as a community to further the work we do for the Kingdom of God. To coin a well-worn phrase, it was “time well spent.”

In a few days, we will honor our 2012 Jubilarians who celebrate 25, 50, 60 and 75 years of religious life. And a week later, the installation of the Congregation’s 2012-2016 Central Administration takes place here in Joliet.

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Confiança is a publication of the

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 Communication Layout and Design - Lucy Sanchez Copy Editor - Sr. Carlene Howell, OSF

Mission Statement Led by the Spirit, we embrace the Gospel life by commitment to Franciscan values and respond to the needs of our time through prayer, community and ministry.

Helping Hands

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Irmã Débora’s profession

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Chapter Odyssey

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Meet My Ministry

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New Associates

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New Governing Board

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A New Journey

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At Journey’s End

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Mark your Calendars

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On the Cover: Sister Jeanette Willenborg (on right) welcomes Sister Simone Aparecida Ferreira Soares during at the opening ceremony of Chapter, 2012. © 2012, Sisters of St. Francis

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Advancing the Mission Hello Everyone!

From wherever you are reading this, I hope you are enjoying a beautiful spring.

Let me start by thanking you for the wonderful support shown for both the annual retirement appeal and the spring 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.

We recently published our 2011 Annual Reflection, which provides highlights of the last calendar year, as well as a snapshot of our contributory income. It also gives us the opportunity to recognize our benefactors who contribute $250.00 or more during the year. The Annual Reflection appears on our website at www.jolietfranciscans.org. We also recently compiled Sister Johanna Didier’s primer on “How to be a Missionary Nun Overseas” into a single document, which you will also find on our website. As you might know, Sister Johanna died earlier this year while in Brazil for Sister Débora de Castro Alves’ Final Profession of Vows.

This issue of Confiança is packed with a lot of stories. We are covering the 2012 General Chapter, offering a piece by Sister Carol Mecko about her ministry in Little Falls, Minnesota, and sharing Associate Rita Travis’ story about the Associates’ mission trip to Alabama. Our next issue will cover our 2012 Jubilarians, as well as introduce you to the 2012-2016 Central

Administration.

Watch for it in September.

Many of you graciously share with us your memories of the Sisters. Please continue to do so. If Nan Nagl you appreciate, admire Director of Mission Advancement or respect the work of the Sisters, let them know. I ask that you keep the Sisters in your prayers. You might not realize this, but you make a great impact not only in their lives, but in the lives of those to whom they minister. I also ask that you continue your financial support this year. As Sister Suzanne calls to thank you for your support, she hears many of you say that you wish you could give more. Be assured, there is no small gift. Every donation is greatly appreciated and assists the Sisters in continuing God’s work among His people.

Whether they are serving in communities throughout the United States or in Brazil, you are in the prayers of all of the Sisters.

Until next time, enjoy the miracle of each new day.

A I close this letter, I share with you that my time as As President and General Superior is almost complete. I am P rreturning to Colorado to resume my ministry in Catholic eeducation. The past four years have been a time of many joys and a few sorrows; a time of challenges met and jo milestones reached. I have come to describe these past four m years as a graced time during which I was stretched, pulled, y honored and privileged to serve as our Congregational h lleader. you, our dear friends friends, have traveled this time with us through your prayers, your words of support and And you encouragement, and your financial support. We appreciate your presence in our lives. Our Sisters, wherever they serve, remember you in prayer. I ask that you continue to remember us in yours.

Peace and all good,

Sister Mary R Rose Li Lieb b President & General Superior

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Helping Hands in Alabama T Traveling from Illinois, Ohio and Texas, eleven Joliet Franciscan Associates ggathered in Mosses, Alabama, to begin a week of missionary work within ssome of our country’s poorest communities. Guided by Sisters Rosemary Fonck and Kathy Salewski, these eleven missionaries, with the common goal F oof lending “helping hands,” returned to their homes feeling enriched by their eexperience. Associate Rita Travis shares some of the highlights of their time iin Alabama.

E Each morning during the week of March 11, 2012, and shortly after Alabama sunrise, a group of Joliet Franciscan Associates drove over the A famous f Pettus Bridge in Selma and headed for Mosses. The Joliet Franciscan c Associates were on their way to work with Sisters Rosemary Fonck and a Kathy Salewski at the Good Shepherd Catholic Center.

Besides painting, Connie Blackwell was a “jill-of-all-trades,” she visited nursing homes and helped stock shelves among her other jobs.

Supported by the Edmundite Southern Missions, the Center provides a S safe place for persons in this poor, rural area in which there is only one s convenience store. The Center offers a food pantry, clothing through a thrift store, a senior program, an after school program, and some home repair and yard cleanup, as funds permit.

The missionaries were Cathy Kerns, Kevin Kerns, Teresa Aguirre, Connie Blackwell, Jo Collins, Pam Leddy, Anne Craig-McEldowney, Jim Lynch, Marie Lynch, Ann O’Brien, and Rita Travis.

The week began in Selma with an orientation from the Edmundites, who have been working with the poor in this area for 75 years. Sisters Rosemary and Kathy provided an orientation in Mosses at the Center and took the group to the Lowndes Interpretive Center for a look at the history of the Civil Rights Movement and the story of the voting rights march from Selma to Montgomery.

The rest of the week was filled with a variety of activities for group members. Jo, Pam, Anne, and Teresa spent their days at the Central Grade School. They were able to meet with the students in first through fifth grades. They worked on reading comprehension and math skills with the older students and “stories” were shared with first and second graders. Teresa spent some time working in the library and Pam worked on developing a spread-sheet to track test scores.

Pam noted that after school was over, the group worked on clerical tasks at the Center and helped to unload trucks.

“It was a beautiful experience with all helping in different ways,” she said. “The feeling of community was great!”

Jo was touched by the delight of the children as the Associates helped out at the school. “My favorite moments were sitting in the school cafeteria surrounded by smiles, and peeking into the school gym to observe the first graders dancing and marching to music, only to be invited to join them! High fives and knuckle bumps are priceless!”

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Marie Lynch (standing) and Rita Travis (right) spent time helping pack pecans and sharing stories. “We all learned lessons of humility, compassion and joy,” said Marie.

Jim and Kevin came armed with their tools. They rebuilt a porch and a floor in a trailer, did some plumbing, installed a couple of storm/screen doors and fixed some shelves in homes as well as cared for some smaller repairs in the building that Sisters Rosemary and Kathy use for the center of their ministry. The group from Joliet came with donations of $1,000 for the Center. Most of the funds were used to purchase the building supplies for these projects. At the end of a week of repairs, Jim observed that, “The folks whom I met in that small community face many trials each day of their lives and still remain strong in faith and hope for their future.”

The donations came through the “One Heart Project,” one of the many endeavors of the Joliet Franciscan Commission on Justice, Peace and the Integrity of Creation. The Commission sponsored the mission trip, which was offered in memory of Commission member Sister Marie Grunloh, who died in 2011.

Jo Collins was asked to read a book to children at Central Grade School.

for women and children. One of the 2012 projects was for the work of the Sisters in Alabama.

While husband Kevin was repairing homes, Cathy had a variety of experiences. She accompanied Sister Kathy to Montgomery to “shop” at the food bank and then helped unload 3,852 pounds of food items. She also visited residents of a nursing home and accompanied Sister Rosemary to the Senior Program in Hayneville. She was impressed with the faith and generosity of the people. “Their faith in God and the songs they would break into - WOW! They had nothing materially, but Sister Kathy told me that if a family lost their home, people would open their homes to them because they had “more” than the burnt-out family had.

That’s Franciscan spirituality.”

Like Cathy, other “jills-of-all-trades were Marie, Connie and Ann. They all worked with seniors, visited nursing homes, and helped seniors in their own homes. They made trips to the food bank and stocked shelves. Connie and Cathy made an 8-hour round trip to Huntsville to pick up supplies.

Unloading sheets of plywood, (left) Jim Lynch and Kevin Kerns set out to rebuild a porch for an area resident.

The “One Heart Project” was established in 2010 as a way for Sisters and Associates to come together in their giving efforts and with “one heart” help to care for the world. The Commission generally chooses three projects per year to which people can donate, many of those projects honoring a concern

Ann did everything from preparing lunches for the crew to working with senior citizens, visiting the sick, and office work. She cooked and cleaned up for the mission group, and with her typical Irish humor, kept the group laughing. Her favorite task was visiting people in their homes, which she called “awesome.”

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Rita spent the week painting and cleaning at the house of an 82year old local resident, Annie. That project required a variety of hands: the men to move furniture and Marie, Connie and Cathy to work on cleaning and painting. The group finished the living room and kitchen and left a very happy Annie.

All the Associates were impressed with the organization and dayto-day energy of Sisters Rosemary and Kathy.

“I loved every minute of my time in Alabama,” said Associate Ann O’Brien (center) with new friends.

Marie Lynch’s thoughts sum up the spirit of the group: “I bring back from this trip a renewed appreciation for the goodness of God who places before each of us opportunities to grow in His grace and learn lessons of humility, compassion, and joy. The marvelous work Sisters Rosemary and Kathy do in Alabama make me proud to be a Franciscan Associate and to have shared a small part of their ministry.”

Irmã Débora de Castro Alves, OSF Newest Professed Member On Sunday, February 4, 2012, Irmã (Sister) Débora de Castro Alves made her Final Profession of Vows in her home town of Santa Helena, Brazil. In front of family, friends and Sisters of the Congregation, Irmã Débora realized her dream of becoming a professed member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate. Signing the Congregation Book of final professed members and promising to follow in the footsteps of Mother Alfred Moes, the Congregation foundress, and those of her mentor, Sister Johanna Didier, Irmã Débora confidently stepped forward to begin a new stage of her life, that of a religious sister.

There wasn’t an empty space in the church with people coming from many states in Brazil. During the ceremony, M. Rev. Dom Phillip, Bishop of Miracema do Tocantins, where Irmã Débora lives and ministers, asked those present to pray for vocations and to continue to work for the good of the Kingdom of God. Irmã Débora heard this same request as a young child. She remembers during a vocation fair

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when the leader asked who would be around to take the place of the parish priest or of Sister Johanna once they were no longer able to work. Irmã Débora heard herself respond, “I will take Sister Johanna’s Irmã Débora was very happy that Sisplace.” That dream ter Johanna was present for her final profession in Brazil. of one day taking Sister Johanna’s place has now become a reality. In 2009 at the age of 90 years, Sister Johanna returned to Joliet after having spent 43 years walking and praying with her beloved people of Brazil.

Unbeknownst at the time, Sister Johanna, who was present for Irmã Débora’s profession, would die just a few weeks later and be buried in Santa Helena, Brazil.

Chapter 2012 Odyssey

(Odyssey: an intellectual or spiritual wandering or quest.)

Sister Sis ister ter Lourdes Lourd Lo urdes es Boy Boyer er General Secretary

The official announcement of T tthe dates for Chapter 2012 were ssent on May 24, 2010. While ssome may believe that this was tthe beginning of preparations for Chapter 2012, the Odyssey began C many months before as the memm bbers of the Central Administration pprayed over and discussed aspects oof the formation of the Chapter Planning and Agenda Committee (CPAC).

Spirituality, Relationships, Mission and Future Direction became essential elements in our journey to call us to “Renew, Rebuild and Rebirth” in our Congregation.

The physical journey of our Odyssey brought 108 Sisters and 3 Associates to Potawatomi Inn in Pokagon State Park in Indiana to begin the next stage of Chapter 2012. The opening ceremonies used the words of Scripture and the words of our Congregation documents along with the symbols of flagstones, candles and plants to create opportunities for conversion and transformation.

During the Summer Gathering of 2010, Sister Mary Rose Lieb challenged the members of the Congregation to identify and articulate the “BIG questions” and to subsequently move into decisions about our collective, common, and Congregational future.

In August, the members of CPAC had their first meeting. After reviewing Canonical and Congregation documents on the legal aspects of the Chapter, the committee began to address the challenge (The BIG Question) that Sister Mary Rose had placed before the Congregation. This “BIG Question” became the “map” for our Odyssey together.

Many meetings, discussions, reflections, faith-sharing experiences and prayer comprised our journey together as we as a Congregation addressed the “BIG Question” in our Local Chapter Groups. As a result, the topics of

Meetings of CPAC (Chapter Planning and Agenda Committee) took place many months before the actual Chapter.

Sisters gathered together for the official opening of Chapter 2012 at Pokagon State Park in Indiana.

The first day was devoted to a Day of Reflection on the Chapter Theme: “Renew, Rebuild, Rebirth.” The sharing of views on religious, economic, political and cultural aspects of the two countries of Brazil and the United States provided the main thrust for discussion for the following days. We then focused on the input that had been provided through the Local Chapter Group meetings over the previous 18 months. These culminated in a Chapter Commitment Statement. A special “thank you” to the 2008—2012 Central Administration took place on Saturday evening.

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Meet My Ministry Meet Sister Carol Mecko, OSF. Sister Carol has been a member of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters for forty-eight years. She is currently an Early Head Start Home Visitor working in Little Falls, Minnesota. Sister Carol is also a Local Chapter Coordinator for some of our Joliet Franciscan Sisters.

I am Sister Carol Mecko, OSF. I am 68 years old and have been a Joliet Franciscan for 48 years. I grew up in a changing Chicago neighborhood, a Slovak-American kid who was friends with a Lakota Indian girl, a Polish-Blackfoot Indian boy, a Polish-Mexican boy, a Lithuanian girl, and an African American boy—a real rainbow of friends. It was while Sister Carol Mecko playing with my wonderful and diverse friends on a black cinder ball field one day that I had my first Spanish lesson. I asked Tito to teach me some Spanish. He took one of my hands with one of his and looking me right in the eye and stroking my palm with his other hand said to this romantic ten year old: “Tu tienes manos sucias!” I asked him what that meant. He translated, ”You have dirty hands!” I never forgot my first Spanish lesson and found that Spanish would be an important part of my future ministry.

I wanted to become a Sister since I was 10 years old. My favorite teacher was a School Sister of Notre Dame and she was the one who planted the seed of becoming a teacher (and also gave me a copy of our Sister Anthony Marie, OSF’s book, Least of all Me.) After reading it and meeting the Joliet Franciscans at Sacred Heart in Chicago through my aunt, Sister Sylvina, becoming a teacher and a Franciscan became my calling.

The early followers of Jesus called themselves followers of “THE WAY” even before they were called Christians.

Over the years I have grown to realize that my purpose on this earth is to walk with people, not walking ahead of them and pulling them, nor walking behind them and pushing them, but walking beside them as companions on the journey. I walked as an elementary teacher and principal for 30+ years. I had wanted to minister with the Native Indian Peoples but was sent instead to predominantly Spanish-speaking parishes for most of those years. Although I never taught in Spanish, I was blessed with many native Spanish teachers during these years students, parents and parishioners. I enjoyed teaching and loved getting the youngsters out of their seats and actively engaged in learning and with the other students, Sister Carol visits a family at a nearby trailor park. She tutoring those who needed a little extra help and allowlikes being called “Gramma Claus,” because she brings ing all students to advance at their own pace as much as bags of toys and books for the residents she visits. possible. Class circle discussions were vital to interaction, communication and social development. My mom used to call my classroom the “junk yard” because I usually had the desks in a circle, a small group table in the center and various nooks and corners for reading, cooking or work bench centers. I believe in whole-person learning. I believe that in order to be a great teacher and not just a good teacher, you have to be a great learner and I learned so much from the many students, parents, teachers and others during those 30+ years.

Then in midlife I needed to take Sabbatical time to journey within and deepen. After this grace-filled time, for the next 9 years I began to minister on the staff of the Spiritual Center as a massage therapist and teacher of Earth and Body Spirituality. I walked with sisters, brothers and priests from all over the world and learned so 8

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m much from this experience. I made a commitment to “slow ddown and deepen” and I returned to childhood development ffor this deepening. I now walk with low-income Spanishsspeaking parents who have children, birth to three years old.

I drive rural streets of small Minnesota towns to the homes of tthese wonderful families. I sometimes call myself “Gramma C Claus” as I carry my bags filled with age-appropriate toys, ppuzzles, art, storybooks and informational material. I knock oon doors of apartment buildings, trailers and even a cow barn aand milking parlor, out in the boonies of Minnesota.

Since most folks speak only Spanish, we make a pact during S my first visit. Since I’m not a native speaker I ask them to m hhelp me improve my Spanish and I promise to help them with ttheir English. My goal is to walk with the people I serve and hhelp the parents become the first teachers of their children. I During visits, Sister Carol teaches both children and bring the educational materials and model their use for the their parents. parents, communicating mostly in Spanish, and then hand it over to them to engage with their children. Together, often sitting on the living room or kitchen floor or in the yard, we learn to “follow” the little ones, learning from the beginning, from innocence. As active as little ones are, you have to really slow down to be a learner and teacher. Together we experience growth in physical, communication, cognitive, sensorial, health and emotional areas. We use things around their homes to learn and explore and move outdoors to explore painting with pine boughs and feathers and creating from all kinds of things in the natural world around us, experiencing wind and water and sand and snow. Seeing through the eyes of a small child is refreshing and revitalizing if you take the time to really be with them. Together, the parents and I learn deeply the meaning of respect: To look again and to look more deeply. I am privileged to witness the joy and awe of first steps and first words and that special look when a toddler discovers something new on her/his own, or when a mother or father engage in deep bonding experiences with their child. The Latino families I am privileged to become engaged with are people of strong faith and courage who love to celebrate the lives of each other through “mesa (table and food), musica (music, song and dance) and misa (celebrations as communities of faith)-- very family oriented in an extended family sort of way. I am addressed with the respectful title of Maestra (teacher) but with lots of affection as I get almost “hug-tackled” by toddlers when I show up at their doors. I was deeply touched at the beginning of one visit when I quizzed little Jose, asking who the people in his house were: “Quien son ellos..?” (Who are they?)

He named mama, papa, tia (aunt), abuela (grandma)….and “Latino families are people of strong faith and courwhen I asked, “y yo?”(and who am I?), to which he promptly age,” said Sister Carol. She is honored to serve them. answered “Abuela” (grandma). What a blessing it is to walk with these parents, their little ones and their families. I’m filled with deep gratitude when reminded during my hour and a half weekly visits to each family all year round of that prerequisite for entering the “kindom” (yes, kindom, for we are a family): “Unless you become as little children…”

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New Associates Welcomed At the culmination of the recent Associates’ Weekend, fourteen men and women joined the ranks of Joliet Franciscan Associates through their commitment to deepen their relationship with the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate.

Through this relationship, the Associates share the goals, concerns and values of the Congregation.

Donna Aye Donna was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and now lives in Effingham, Illinois. Donna and her husband, Bill, have been married for 43 years and have four children and eight grandchildren. Donna has had quite a career.

She has been a Catholic school teacher, director of the American Red Cross and an insurance agent. She is also a registered nurse and currently works as a hospital nursing supervisor at St. Anthony Memorial Hospital in Effingham. Two years ago Donna met Sr. Sandra Sudkamp at a DeColores weekend and since that time has been a member of the “Southern Illinois Associate” prayer and study group that meets regularly. Donna’s Companion Sister is Sr. Sandra Sudkamp.

1960 and was ordained a Catholic priest in 1967. He was born and raised in Chicago Heights, Illinois, where. as he says, “I heard God’s call to be a priest when I received my First Holy Communion and to be a Franciscan Friar in fourth grade.” Among his many ministries, Father Chuck ministered at St. Peter’s Church in downtown Chicago for 20 years, eight of them as pastor. After his ministry at St. Peter’s ended in 1998, he began to preach at parishes, retreat centers and to Franciscans – Friars, Sisters and Secular Franciscans. Also since 1980, Father Chuck has been involved in leading pilgrimages to many destinations, including the Holy Land. Father Chuck’s Companion Sisters are all the Joliet Franciscan Sisters.

V Virginia (Ginger) Fenili G Ginger was born and raised Maria Espitia iin Rockdale, Illinois, and Maria grew up in Mexllater moved to Joliet. She ico in a small town that w was baptized Lutheran Maria says people called, bbut did not attend church.

“The Town of the Eternal B Because of the influence Feast,” because each day oof her friends, at the age of of the year is a saint’s 111 she went to St. Joseph feast day. She now lives C Church in Rockdale and in Joliet and has two aasked a priest if she could daughters. She is certified bbecome Catholic. She was in food service and works ““conditionally” baptized as a dietary aide at Our aand shortly thereafter Lady of Angels Retirerreceived her first Holy ment Home (OLA).

C Communion. She married Maria is a member of The Associate class of 2012 are men and women who wanted to deepen their Franciscan relationship with the Sisters. her husband, Ralph, with Mt. Carmel Church in whom she had ten children.

Joliet where she also Her daughter, Donna Jean, was born with Down Syntaught religious education. Maria loves our Sisters and drome and died a month after birth. In 2006, after 50 years finds joy in participating in events and prayerful gatherof marriage, Ralph died of lung cancer. For the past 26 ings. She was attracted to our Franciscan Spirit by the years Ginger has worked as a dental office manager. She unity that she saw among the Sisters, particularly Sr. is a Eucharistic Minister for the homebound of her parish, Janet Tucci, who has become her mentor. It was through St. Patrick’s, and at Provena St. Joseph Medical Center Sr. Janet that Maria became a Eucharistic Minister and in Joliet. For 30 years Ginger taught 4th and 5th grade learned more about the Associate Relationship. Maria’s religious education classes. She became interested in the Companion Sister is Sr. Janet.

Associate relationship while attending Mass at Guardian Angel Home. The Sisters would name the Associates and Father Chuck Faso, O.F.M. pray for them, so she inquired about the program. GinAnnounced at the beginning of the Liturgy and Formalger’s Companion Sisters are Srs. Pat Wagner and Mary ization Ceremony on Sunday, April 29 was the welcome Ann Clark. surprise that Father Chuck, a longtime friend of the Congregation, would become an Associate of the Joliet Franciscans. Father Chuck has been a Franciscan Friar since

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Joanna Helm Joanna was born and raised in a small town in New Jersey.

Her father was from Rome and her mother from Sicily.

Joanna and her husband, Dennis, have two sons. They lived in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and now live in Vandalia, Illinois, where they own and operate a book store, “Words, Wicks and Wood.” Joanna is very active in her church, Mother of Dolors. She became interested in the Associate relationship through another Associate, Eileen Hartke. Joanna’s Companion Sister is Sr. Sandra Sudkamp.

involved in JACOB (Joliet-Area Church-based Organized Body), a coalition of churches working on injustice in the community, and other Church-based organizations. Pam has great admiration for the women religious who have devoted their lives in service to the Church and she wants to show her support of their commitment by becoming an Associate.

Pam’s Companion Sister is Sr. Mary Frances Seeley.

Judith Lynn Michels Lynn lives in Crest Hill, Illinois, and has two adult children.

Her husband is deceased. Lynn is a member of St. Patrick Church in Joliet where she is active in many ministries. She Juliane Marie (Julie) Kowalczyk is a retired school psychologist.

Julie was born in Chicago but Lynn became interested in the now lives in Mokena, Illinois.

Associate Relationship through Julie has a BS degree in Physical Associate Jean Roach and Education from Chicago State through her volunteer efforts at University. She taught at Fenger The Upper Room with Sister High School on Chicago’s south Mary Frances Seeley. Volunside before becoming the first teering at OLA also increased women’s athletic director at St. her awareness of the program.

Xavier University. Julie and her Lynn was born and raised in husband, Joseph, have two adult Chicago, and was a member sons. They are members of St. of St. Pascal’s Church. She Mary’s Church in Mokena where later attended Alvernia High Sisters Dolores Zemont and Rose School. Lynn has two masters’ Marie Surwilo minister. Among degrees. Lynn says that her reher many activities, Julie is a Sister Peggy Quinn and Dolores Dean take turns leading ligious background was always member of the parish retreat team the group in singing during the Associate Weekend Franciscan and Jesuit but in her and a facilitator for the bereavelater years she finds herself bement support group. As a result coming closer to Francis and Franciscan spirituality. Lynn’s of the dying of her best friend’s child, she organized a Mass Companion Sister is Sr. Mary Frances. just for parents whose children have died. To Julie, her involvement in the parish is a way of “giving back” to God Darcy Mason in gratitude for the many gifts He has given her. She sees her Darcy has a bachelor’s degree from Governors State Uniconnection with the Joliet Franciscans and the Associates as versity and works as a licensed dental hygienist. She and her a joyous relationship in bringing the gospel to life. Julie’s husband, Bob, have been married for 30 years, and have a Companion Sisters are Srs. Dolores and Rose Marie. daughter, Elizabeth. Darcy was born and raised Jewish and lived on the southwest side of Chicago in an Irish-Catholic Palma (Pam) Leddy community. With her grandmother’s approval, she was the Pam and her husband, Harry, live in Joliet and are very acfirst one in her family to date someone Catholic. Darcy tive at Sacred Heart Church on Joliet’s east side. They have and Bob married in a ceremony officiated by a priest and been married for over 40 years and have two adult children. a rabbi. Their child was baptized Catholic. In 1986 Darcy Pam grew up in Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania, a small coal went through the RCIA program, was baptized and received mining town in the northeast. She met her husband, Harry, into the Catholic Church. Darcy is a member of St. Mary’s who was from Chicago, while on vacation in the British Church in Mokena, Illinois, and is active in many ministries.

Isles. She is a retired administrative secretary with Joliet She wants to continue on the journey as a faith-filled woman Public Schools, District 86. Although retired, Pam remains and to be in relationship with others who have similar ideals. very active. At Sacred Heart she is a Eucharistic Minister and Darcy’s Companion Sisters are Srs. Dolores Zemont and also serves on several committees and ministries including Rose Marie Surwilo.

Renew and Marriage Encounter. For several years Pam was

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New Associates Welcomed Continued John Roach John was born and raised in Joliet, Illinois. He and his wife, Jean, who is also an Associate, have a son and daughter and three granddaughters. They have been married for 45 years and are members of St. Patrick Church in Joliet. Before retiring, John worked for 40 years at Provena St. Joseph Medical Center. A man of deep faith and prayer, it seems that John has always been connected to our Congregation in some way, either volunteering with the Associates or helping our Sisters with their activities. Besides volunteering with the Joliet Franciscan Sisters, John helps out at Daybreak Homeless Shelter and is a Eucharistic Minister for the residents at Victory Centre in Joliet. John’s Companion Sister is Sr. Yvonne Weidner.

Associates Jeanne Foley and Roberta Spencer take turns passing the soap bubble container.

Edmund Morrow Edmund was born in Jamaica, New York, and grew up in Elmont, New York. Edmund came from a very traditional religious upbringing. His uncle was a Passionist priest who often visited the family. After Edmund’s freshman year in high school, he entered the Passionist seminary, but left before ordination. Today, Edmund and his wife, Eileen, who also became an Associate, live in Shorewood, Illinois. They have two adult children, and have been married for almost 40 years. Edmund works in Chicago as a proxy solicitor. He became familiar with the Associate relationship through his volunteer efforts at The Upper Room. Although he is a Passionist at heart, he is also attracted to the Franciscan spirit.

Ed is a member of Holy Family Church and volunteers at OLA and The Upper Room. Edmund’s Companion Sister is Sr. Mary Frances Seeley.

Eileen Morrow Eileen, the wife of Edmund, was born in Dublin, Ireland.

She came to the U.S. in 1959 as a member of the Sisters of St. Joseph in New Jersey. Eleven years later, Eileen made the decision to leave her Congregation. A few years later, she met and married Edmund and had two children. Through their volunteer efforts, including The Upper Room and OLA, Edmund and Eileen became very familiar with our Sisters and learned about the Associate Relationship through Associate Marie Lynch and Sister Mary Frances Seeley. Eileen’s Companion Sister is Sr. Mary Frances.

Mary Trahan Mary was born in Hayes, Louisiana and now lives in Joliet, Illinois. She had six children (two sons died at an early age.)

Although she calls herself “retired,” she works part time as a bus driver. She is involved in many activities in her parish, the Cathedral of St. Raymond, and also for the city of Joliet.

Some of her parish activities include being on the Peace and Justice Committee and Pro-Life Committee. Mary also finds time to be a student tutor, an activity that helps her to discern where God is leading her. She has also volunteered at OLA with Sister Donna Marie Baier, the Director of Volunteers. Mary became interested in the Associate relationship through her friend, Associate Helen Lawson, and also through her attendance at various prayer sessions at the Joliet Franciscan Center, the Congregation’s offices. Mary’s Companion Sister is Sr. Dorothy Clare Zuleski.

Audrey Wierzbinski Audrey and her husband, Phil, live in Naperville, Illinois.

They have been married for 38 years and have four grown children and eight grandchildren. She has a BA in English and an MA in Language and Literature from Governors State University. Audrey and Phil are members of St. Raphael Church in Naperville, Illinois. She has volunteered in the parish’s religious education department as a secretary and taught in the Rainbows Program. Audrey is familiar with the Joliet Franciscans, having attended St. Francis de Sales Grade and High Schools in Chicago where our Sisters were teachers. Audrey feels that she has been very blessed in her life and would now like to share her blessings in an even greater way by becoming an Associate of the Congregation.

Audrey’s Companion Sister is Sr. Pat Mitchell.

More information about the Associate program can be found on the Sisters of St. Francis website at http://www.jolietfranciscans.org/become-an-associate.

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Chapter 2012 Odyssey (Continued) On Sunday the Chapter of Elections was held. The women who were willing to make themselves available for Congregation Leadership spoke to the Assembly and answered questions. The voting resulted in the election of Sister Dolores Zemont, President; Sister Clarita Schumacher, Vice President and Councilor for the Membership; Sister Peggy Quinn, Councilor for Franciscan Spirituality and Sister Teresinha Mendonça Del’Aqua, Councilor for the Mission.

The final day of Chapter brought expressions of gratitude to all who had made the experience such a satisfying one. These included everyone who had prepared and participated in prayerful experiences

trees, the flower beds and other natural aspects of the Pokagon State Park.

Whether you chose to sit inside the buildings and look out the spacious windows or walk the hiking trails, the wildlife and scenery brought an atmosphere of tranquility and peace.

Sister Gina gives a report on

Evenings were not San Damiano School in Brazil. always spent in study and discussion. Opportunities for relaxation were available whether you chose to play games, work jigsaw puzzles or just sit and share time together with others. One night the opportunity for relaxation provided a talent show featuring the various gifts that others were willing to share with the group.

Sisters Deborah Gaughan and Joan Clare Wisner write their thoughts on poster board to share with the entire group.

After completing these days together one might believe that the Chapter Odyssey is completed and the journey is over. But as with any odyssey we know that the events that shaped our lives these last months are just an inkling of the quest that continues to enrich us each day of our lives.

throughout the Chapter Days; the hospitality committee members; the people who arranged transportation; to those who provided an atmosphere of prayer and reflection on the Chapter Theme and the staff who provided translations, videos, and reports.

The beauty of Spring was evident in the red-bud

Sitting from left: Sisters Neli Vieira dos Santos, Lucille Adelmann, Theresa Fifer and Vivian Whitehead.

Standing from left: Sisters Simone Aparecida Ferreira Soares, Maria Aparecida Teles Proto, Odelia Kloc, Rosa Maria Lima dos Santos, Albert Marie Papesh, Grimaldina Oliveira dos Santos and Barbara Kwiatkowski.

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New Governing Board At their General Chapter meetings held April 9 – 16, 2012, the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, Joliet, IL, elected the new members of the Governing Board for the 2012-2016 term. They will take office on June 23, 2012.

(From left): Sister Peggy Quinn, Councilor for Franciscan Spirituality; Sister Teresinha Mendonca Del’Acqua, Councilor for the Mission. Sister Dolores Zemont, President and Sister Clarita Schumacher, Vice President and Councilor for the Membership.

The newly elected members of the Governing Board are: Sisters Dolores Zemont, President; Clarita Schumacher, Vice President and Councilor for the Membership; Peggy Quinn, Councilor for Franciscan Spirituality, and Teresinha Mendonca Del’Acqua, Councilor for the Mission. Sisters Mary Jane Griffin, General Treasurer, and Lourdes Boyer, General Secretary, were re-appointed to their respective positions and, with the elected Sisters, comprise the Central Administration for the next four years.

More about the new Governing Board will be featured in our next issue.

Jubilarians 2012 On June 16, 2012, the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate will celebrate the Jubilees of the following Sisters:

75th Jubilarians

50th Jubilarians

25th Jubilarians

Sister Rose Spatny Sister Pauline Ann Furiel

Sister Mary Lou Marchetti Sister Phyllis Wilhelm Sister Yvonne Weidner Sister Rosemary Huzl

Irmã Maria Aparecida Gomes Irmã Izabel Lopes dos Santos Irmã Neli Vieira dos Santos

60th Jubilarian Sister Pauline Schutz

More to come about our Jubilarians in our next issue.

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A New Journey Begins On May 20, 2012, during evening prayer, the Congregation welcomed Elizabeth Bach Luong, as she took a big step on her road to discerning a call to Religious Life as a Joliet Franciscan Sister by entering the Affiliate (preNovitiate) Program. Elizabeth was born in Vietnam and was educated in Japan before coming to the United States. An Associate of the Congregation since 2002, Elizabeth has known the Sisters for many years. She is an accomplished poet and artist.

As a pre-novice, Elizabeth will live in the formation community with Sisters Mary Jean Morris and Sandra Salois as well as Deborah Gaughan, a novice of the Congregation. As a member of this community, she will receive spiritual direction, study the Constitutions, pray the Office, learn more about the Congregation as well as further her discernment process while keeping her present employment.

One of her works is featured on the announcement of her reception into the Affiliate Program.

Praise you Lord for Sister Moon So radiant She lights up the blue night So humble She looks down to the earth So patient She accompanies me on my journey to your house So kind She wipes our tears in distress So thoughtful She dances in the soft wind to comfort us So gentle She implores a hymn of love With Sister Moon I lift up to you A moonlight serenade Oh my Lord, How beautiful is your creation above all the earth.

Sister Clarita gives Elizabeth a journal where she can write her hopes, thoughts, feelings and experiences as she begins her new journey.

- Elizabeth Bach Luong

In Memoriam - Associate Eugenia Bank E Eugenia’s relationship with the Joliet Franciscan Sisters began as a student at St. Francis A Academy and continued at the College of St. Francis from which she graduated in 1940 with a Bachelor’s degree in Art. Affectionately known as “Maude,” she was married to w hher husband, Louis, for 70 years. She was a mother of 10, a grandmother of 21 and a ggreat-grandmother of 18. After raising her family, Eugenia taught art at Gompers Junior High. After retirement, she became a volunteer art teacher at the Will County jail.

H Eugenia became an Associate of the Joliet Franciscan Sisters in 1992. Her Companion E Sister was Sr. Lucille Adelmann OSF. She died peacefully on April 21, 2012.

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At Journey’s End - Sister Jean (Alette) Lenz, OSF S Sister Jean was born on May 20, 1930, tto Gertrude and Joseph Lenz and nnamed Alice Eugenia. She was the o oldest of four children, her s siblings being Ray, Jack a Trudy. In her childand hood h and adolescence, she s was recognized as a natural-born n leader, a person s of memory and vision who w always had a story to tell. t She attended St. Martin t School and completed her h secondary education at the t Academy of Our Lady (Longwood). In 1948, Sister Jean began her under-graduate studies at the College of St. Francis where she met the Joliet Franciscans.

As a junior, she began to seriously consider a vocation to religious life. Inspired and encouraged by the College sisters whom she came to know and love as teachers, mentors and friends, the words of Francis of Assisi began to echo in her own heart: “This is what I wish, this is what I seek, this is what I long to do with all my heart.”

On September 2, 1952, Sister Jean became a postulant. In August of the following year, she entered the novitiate and was given the religious name, Sister Mary Alette. Soon after making her first profession in 1955, she began teaching English and Journalism at St. Francis Academy in Joliet. By 1958, the year of her final profession, Sister Alette was widely regarded as a source of inspiration for the young women whom she taught and mentored. She was appointed as the Congregation’s first Vocation Director in 1962. During the exciting and turbulent years of the Second Vatican Council, Sister Alette’s passion for journalism, scripture and theology was evident. Following her graduate studies in journalism at Marquette University in 1965, she completed graduate theological studies at the University of Notre Dame in 1967 and at the Aquinas Institute of Theology in 1970. Sister Jean became a prophetic voice in formation circles, a far-sighted thinker in the Congregation’s 1968 Chapter of Renewal and an innovative instructor who put in place the foundation for campus ministry at the College of St. Francis, the alma mater for which she went on to serve as a trustee for 32 years.

In 1973, after considerable discernment, she responded to an invitation from the University of Notre Dame to become the first woman rector of Farley Hall, a newly established residence for under-graduate women being admitted to the University as it became coeducational. She was also invited to serve as an instructor in the Theology Department. The decision to go to Notre Dame set in motion a series of relationships, events and university appointments which, over the course of 38 years, would result in Sister

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Jean becoming the Franciscan sister who encouraged and inspired generations of Notre Dame students “to grow up and to grow deep.” In the words of Fr. Ted Hesburgh, “she buoyed spirits by her infectious laugh and lifted burdens by her practical efforts.” A recipient of numerous honors, awards and tributes, including an honorary doctorate from the University of Portland, Sister Jean represented the highest ideals of her College Sisters on the Hill, the legacy of Mother Alfred Moes, and the ongoing contribution of the Joliet Franciscans to Catholic higher education.

Two mottos framed the life of Sister Jean – that of the Congregation: “Prima unctio et postea speculatio” (First anointing and afterwards speculation) and that of the University of Notre Dame: “Vita, Dulcedo, Spes” (Life, Sweetness, Hope). An exemplar of radical openness to God’s amazing grace, Sister Jean embraced the call to holiness with joy and enthusiasm. Blessed with a listening heart, a keen intellect and a gentle sense of humor, she devoted her life to engaging the religious imaginations of generations of young women and men. As a Sister of St. Francis, a teacher, a mentor, a vocation director, a formator, an instructor, a rector, a colleague, an advocate, an author, an administrator and a woman religious of incalculable wisdom and grace, she brought a delightful sweetness to the lives of everyone she touched. Always abiding in hope, Sister Jean embodied the life lesson learned from her teacher and longtime friend, Piet Schoonenberg, SJ: “Of course we hope in God, but God also hopes in us. God is our ultimate partner.”

Looking back on her life, Sr. Jean observed “there has been more peace and chaos, laughter and tears, more life and death and grace than I had ever dared to imagine. So much gift!” Sister Jean Lenz died on January 21, 2012.

Left: Fathers Theodore (Ted) Hesburgh, Edward (Monk) Malloy and John Jenkins celebrated Sr. Jean’s induction to the Wall of Fame at Notre Dame.

At Journey’s End - Sister Johanna Didier, OSF Sister Johanna Didier died on March 6, 2012, in Brazil.

Sister Johanna was born on March 19, 1918, to Aloysius and Emma Didier and named Martha Josephine. The fourth of fifteen children, she attended St. Mary School and St. Patrick Academy in Des Plaines, Illinois. In 1936, she entered the Congregation as a postulant. A year later, she entered the Novitiate and was given the name Johanna in honor of St. John the Baptist, her patron and model for mission. Two years later, she professed her first vows, went on to complete her undergraduate studies at the College of St. Francis and began her teaching ministry. As her final profession drew near, Sister Johanna included in her request to Mother Thomasine a solemn pledge that expressed the principle and foundation for her consecrated life: “I will strive to be a religious according to the heart of God and the spirit of our Congregation.”

In the company of her Joliet Franciscan sisters, and her three blood sisters, Sisters Ambrose, Peter and Mary Therese, Sister Johanna truly lived what she believed and what she preached.

Serving as Aspirant Mistress from 1945-1959, she mentored a generation of vibrant young women in whom she instilled a passion for mission and a vision for ministry in the Church and in the world. Completing her Master’s degree at DePaul University, her thesis articulated the importance of cultivating and fostering vocations. In the years that followed, she devoted her energies to teaching and administration at schools in Illinois and Ohio. Yet, at the age of 43, she was absolutely convinced that God was calling her to do something new and unprecedented with her life as a Franciscan.

The Congregation began T iits mission in Brazil in 11963. Since she wanted tto be a missionary sister ffrom the time she was a young child, Sister JJohanna was among the first to volunteer. Howeever, it was not until 11966 that she received tthe long-awaited letter of ppermission from Mother Borromeo. And thus her B Sister Johanna and (a younger) Irmã 43 year ministry to the 4 Débora had a special bond. Read people of God in Brazil about them at: www.jolietfranciscans. org/about-us/our-ministries/brazil. began.

A model of faith, hope, love, generosity, availability, wisdom, compassion, and creativity, Sister Johanna proved herself to be an amazing innovator and entrepreneur for the sake of the Kingdom. She served the people of God with zeal, joy and unbounded energy. Come what may, with strength, courage, and determination, she was always aware of what needed to be done and quick to identify the right, and often unsuspecting, individuals to assist her in establishing or financing something where there had been

nothing – for infants and children, for adolescent girls and women, for farmers and ranchers, for catechists and teachers, for religious and seminarians, for priests and bishops, for elders and persons with disabilities, for health care workers and domestic workers, for those who were made invisible and voiceless, and most importantly, for all those seeking a deeper experience of God and Christian community. As a Joliet Franciscan, Sister Johanna followed the paths of Francis, Clare and Mother Alfred by rebuilding the church, renewing the faith of God’s people, and finding ways of being born anew by the power of the Holy Spirit.

In October 2009, Sister Johanna returned to Joliet to dedicate herself to the ministries of prayer and companionship among her sisters at OLA Retirement Home, and most especially with Sister Peter. For two years, Sister Johanna made sure that the everyday routine of her new mission in life included the perfect balance of contemplation, table fellowship and recreation, specifically a few lively games of Skippo. With a heart filled with gratitude and a spirit characterized by solicitude, Sister Johanna not only responded to God’s invitations, but also to the invitations of those whom she loved – whether for a card game, a conversation, or a return trip to Brazil for a final profession.

For 94 years, Sister Johanna lived a life of blessing – a life of dreams, challenges, achievements, mysteries, sorrows, hopes and joys. At its conclusion, God knew the plans that He had for her and for her coming home to Him. Knowing the deepest affections of Sister Johanna’s heart for our sisters in Brazil, for her beloved people of Goiás, for the city of Santa Helena of which she was an honorary citizen, and for the beautiful red earth in which her body has been laid to rest, God acted in God’s time according to God’s good will and purpose. (Rom 8:28). As we give thanks and praise to God for the gift of Sister Johanna’s life, may we continue to be inspired and guided by her parting instructions on how to be a missionary: “If anything is to be accomplished, there must be mutual love and respect. Recognize what is of value.

Believe in people. Show them you really care. Tell them how important they are. Be patient because everyone has a right to learn from their mistakes. Just help, if you can, to reduce the number of mistakes.”

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At Journey’s End - Sister Martin Hornak, OSF Sister M. Martin Hornak, OSF died on May 4, 2012.

She was born Julia Hornak S oon May 17, 1917, to Johanna ((Zalubi) and Martin Hornak.

Baptized at Sacred Heart B Parish on Chicago’s west P sside, Julia was initiated into tthe faith and ethnic heritage oof her Slovak ancestors and ddeeply influenced by the ccustoms and character of a vibrant immigrant community. One of five children, she learned from an early age onward the importance of family and friendship, the centrality of religious commitment and cultural identity, and the necessity of education and the arts. Throughout her life, she would promote these values as she empowered others to cultivate them from one generation to the next, from one culture to another.

As a hope-filled adolescent, Julia became an aspirant with the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate and attended St. Francis Academy in Joliet, Illinois. On September 8, 1934, she entered the postulancy and in August of the following year, she was received into the Novitiate and given the name Sister Martin. Two years later, she made her first profession of vows and on August 12, 1940, she made her perpetual profession. During her years in formation, she was described by her superiors as a person who readily “braved all difficulties,” as a young woman with “strong opinions,” and as a sister who was “not only a good teacher,” but someone who could do “just about anything!” Characterized by those who knew her well as “deep,” “charitable,” “jovial,” “whole-hearted,” “determined,” and having a “quiet way about her,” Sister Martin said of herself during those early years in religious life that the she lived “with a heart filled with hope,” mindful of “so many opportunities for growth,” always discovering in community “an experience of grace.”

Sister Martin held a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree from the College of St. Francis. She also completed coursework in administration and instruction at Marquette University, the University of Dayton, De Lourdes College and Northern Illinois University. Eager to increase her knowledge of the Spanish language and Mexican culture for the sake of ministry, she studied for a time in Cuernavaca, Mexico, at CALE (Centro de Artes y Linguas). A lifelong learner and teacher, firmly rooted in the tradition of Franciscan education, Sister Martin had a strong sense of mission and a vital commitment to urban education, especially among immigrants and the poor. In the mid 1950s and early 1960s she was among the first sisters to generously volunteer for new congregation missions in the South and in Brazil. However, parishes and pastors within the inner city of

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Chicago, especially Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Fr. John Spitkovsky, would claim her as their own – as teacher, principal, advocate, mentor, sestra and hermana. Over the years, amidst the duties and responsibilities of her religious life, and despite geographical distances, Sister Martin remained devoted and involved in the lives of her family members and longtime friends.

For her, they always were an expression of God’s great love, wonder and joy.

In 1985, Sister Martin reinvented herself as well as her life in ministry as she moved from elementary education, adult literacy and teaching English as a second language, to becoming a much beloved coordinator of Arts and Crafts for the St. Pascal’s Senior Center as well as a parish religious educator and Eucharistic minister. Also a faithful volunteer for many years at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home, Sister Martin decided to make it her home in 1998. Continuing to treasure the challenges and blessings of each day and steadfast in her commitment to serve others through the ministries of presence, prayer and sacrifice, Sister Martin proved herself to be, at the end of life, the culmination of who she was throughout her life - a craftswoman par excellence, who crocheted, stitched and wove together the threads of her life in ways that were as amazing as they were subtle. In the process, like the Good Shepherd, whom she sought to imitate, she gathered and gifted so many with the loving works of her hands and her heart.

Pictured with former students, Sister Martin Hornak (seated) and Sister Nicholas Tosseng were the last two Sisters to leave Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Chicago. Sister Martin was the principal and a teacher at the school from 1969 until 1985.

Mark Your Calendars Prayer Breakfasts Join us for Prayer Breakfasts held throughout the warmer months of the year. The morning begins at 7:00 AM with prayer and includes an inspirational talk and breakfast. Dates for the balance of 2012 are: Wednesday, July 11th Wednesday, September 19th

(Men & Women) (Women)

Prayer Breakfasts are held at the Joliet Franciscan Center, 1433 Essington Road, Joliet. The suggested donation for these events is $10.00. For more information, please call: (815) 725-8735, x116.

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 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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1433 Essington Road Joliet, IL 60435-2873

Save the Date 23nd Annual Franciscan Autumn Feast October 28, 2012 Bolingbrook Golf Club Raffles - Silent Auction 4:00 pm Dinner - 5:00 pm

Visit us at www.jolietfranciscans.org or on Facebook

Pictures are from the General Chapter held in Pokagon State Park, Indiana.