Sister Kay Francis Berger, osf September 4, 1933 - April 14, 2017
The Joliet Franciscan A Publication of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate - Joliet, IL
Letter from the President
Sister Dolores Zemont, OSF
Dear Friends, As I write this, I am preparing to go to Italy. I will be in Assisi – a “must visit” for any of us who follow in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi - attending the International Third Order Regular Conference of Major Superiors. Although many Franciscans in the United States meet annually, this conference is the opportunity for Franciscans from across the globe to come together for the purpose of sharing news of our work in service to God’s people. Over the past several months, we have had a number of events that took place – all of which you will read about in this issue of “The Joliet Franciscan.” We celebrated the 100th birthdays of two more of our Sisters: Sister Mariarthur Hamann and Sister Marie Schramko. They join Sister Mary Franz – now almost 101 – as our Congregation’s three centenarians, the first time this has happened in our history! Sr. Dolores Zemont, OSF
Sister Juanita Ujcik, our Social Justice Minister, released her book “Let None Walk Alone: a Guide for Family and Friends of Incarcerated People.” Sister Juanita served in jail ministry for 30 years. She realized that there was no resource material of this type for the family and friends of the incarcerated and decided to put pen to paper and wrote this much-needed book. We hosted a book-signing in March where Sister Juanita signed books for guests and spoke with individuals one-on-one to answer questions. There were also some sad times as we lost three Sisters: Sister Therese Greaney, Sister Nicholas Tosseng and Sister Kay Francis Berger. We miss them all. You will be able to read about them within these pages. I want to share a bit more about Sister Kay Francis, who died on Good Friday. Sister Kay Francis was a well-known artist in Franciscan circles and beyond with work displayed in churches, monasteries, convents, mausoleums, and other institutions the world over. At her wake service, we learned much more about Sister Kay from her family and friends. We learned that there is a pizzeria in Assisi which Sister Kay visited many years ago. On that visit, the owner, whose name was Luigi, learned Sister Kay was an artist and asked her to draw something for him. On the wall, she sketched a mushroom pizza! Years later, the pizzeria is now run by Luigi Jr., and the sketch is still there. I will be stopping for pizza while in Assisi and to snap a photo of the best mushroom pizza in town. We also heard from Sister Kay’s niece who shared about the many hours she spent with her aunt in The Canticle Studio. Sister Kay would give her niece a lump of clay, some tools and say, “Go make something beautiful!”
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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 © 2017 - Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate, Joliet, IL. All Rights Reserved
Advancing the Mission Hello Everyone! I like spring and walking into a garden center seeing colorful flowers as far as the eye can see. However, I will be the first to admit that I do not have a “green thumb” and many times do not know one flower from another. I just know they are beautiful to look at and can brighten a day. In our last issue of “The Joliet Franciscan,” I shared that we would be introducing ECards soon. This is now a reality. Five cards are available: two birthday cards, a “thinking of you” card, a get well card and a sympathy card. The cards feature the work of Sister Marianne Saieg, Sister Mary Lou Marchetti, Sister Jaye Nelson and Sister Kay Francis Berger. There is no fee to send a card and no limit on the number you may send. We may add more cards and occasions in the future, and we will keep you aware of any changes as time goes by. As promised, also available on the website is online giving through PayPal. We have been working on making this available to you for several months and it is now here. So check out the new things on the website by visiting www.jolietfranciscans.org. Our “Connections” piece features Claire Millweard. I have known Claire for the past 10 years - almost from my first day working for the Sisters - and have always enjoyed spending time with her. She is gracious and
Nan Nagl generous with her time, not only to the Sisters, but to the Joliet community as a whole. It is evident to all who know her that she loves her community. You will enjoy reading about her connection with the Sisters, I am sure. I want to close by thanking you for your support of the Nan Nagl Joliet Franciscan Sisters. Director of Mission Advancement The notes you send are enjoyable to read as I learn more about your connection to the Sisters. The Sisters have also been the recipients of some estate gifts over the past 12 months. When an individual remembers the Sisters in his or her estate plans, it signals that the role that 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, so please consider remembering them in this special way. With that, take in the beauty of spring that is all around us, and until next time, enjoy the miracle of each new day.
Sister Dolores continues: I thank you for your spiritual and financial support through which you share our journey. You are remembered in my prayers each morning and I am grateful for your presence in the lives of the Joliet Franciscans. I will close by saying that we should follow Sister Kay Francis’ words by taking that metaphorical lump of clay, some tools and “go make something beautiful.” Peace and all good,
Sister Dolores Zemont, OSF President 3
Congratulations Sister Sue The Congregation of the Holy Cross presented Sister Sue Bruno, OSF the Spirit of Holy Cross Award on January 19, 2017. This award is given to lay collaborators who work to fulfill the vision and mission of Blessed Basil Moreau and who “make God known, loved, and served.” Sister Sue first learned that she would be receiving this award last year, though the actual presentation would be made on January 20, the Feast day of the founder of the Holy Cross Congregation, Blessed Basil Moreau. Sister Sue has been working at the University of Portland as the Field Hall Director and has made a significant impact on both students and colleagues alike. It is not by coincidence that she is the first Hall Director to be given this award. Her hard work and love for the students is evident in the congratulatory mes- Father Charlie McCoy, CSC was the presider at the Mass honoring Sissages that were posted on their website. “Your ter Sue Bruno. She was his former Formation Director many years ago. service to the Holy Cross Institutions has made an impact on all of us and I, for one, would not be the same without your influence.” Her presence has also been felt on the basketball court while serving as the chaplain of the basketball teams and while serving on the Holy Cross Seminary Formation Team. On the day of the presentation. Sister Sue was accompanied by her immediate family, Sisters and Associates. A beautiful, original hymn called “All Good Gifts,” composed in gratitude for the life and service of Sister Sue, was written and performed by Maureen Briare during the Mass.
Sisters Mary Rose Lieb, Ann Freiburg, Dolores Zemont, Sue Bruno and Associates Cheryl Shaw and Lou Ann Kinney.
The plaque reads: “By this document be it known that the priests and brothers of the Congregation of the Holy Cross, United States Province, do convey their heartfelt appreciation and confer the Spirit of the Holy Cross Award to Sister Sue Bruno, OSF, for her years of diligent and deft service as a partner with the Congregation of the Holy Cross...”
Before Sister Sue’s arrival at the University of Portland, she served on the Congregation’s leadership team as the Councilor for the Membership (2008-2012) and prior to that spent 15 years at the University of Notre Dame, another Holy Cross Institution, working in a variety of ministerial capacities. 4
The Joliet Franciscan
Welcome Back Sisters
From left to right: Sisters Barbarine Houdek, Margaret Alice Martinek, Rosemary Fonck and Jacqueline Hirsch
Four Joliet Franciscan Sisters have returned home to Joliet after ministering in different areas of the United States. Sisters Rosemary Fonck and Margaret Alice Martinek returned from Alabama, Sister Jackie Hirsch returned from Florida, and Sister Barbarine Houdek returned from California. Each Sister brings a wealth of experiences with her. For some, it has been difficult leaving their places of ministry after serving for many, many years. For others, they have come to terms that this is the best place to be at this point in their lives. They all know that Joliet is the Congregation’s home, and it is here where most of the Sisters live. These four Sisters have begun new lives. For some, this means starting a new ministry, for others it is adjusting to a new way of life. Following are their stories.
“Living in Mosses was my ministry, a ministry I truly loved. But living with my Sisters is my Life!” - Sr. Rosemary Fonck
Sister Rosemary Fonck was the Director of the Good Shepherd Catholic Center in Mosses, Alabama, for eight years before returning to Joliet to serve on the Congregation leadership team. Mosses is one of the poorest areas in the United States. There are about 1100 people living in Mosses, most of whom live below the poverty level. “The people in Mosses are genuinely happy,” said Sister Rosemary, “even though they live in extreme poverty. No one was ever homeless. People would just open their homes to those in need and they would help one other.” Even though life was hard in Mosses, Sister Rosemary was truly happy in her ministry. She would drive a truck to the food dispensary in Selma to bring back food to feed over 800 people. She would help children after school with their homework and feed them. She helped plant gardens so that the residents could have fresh fruit and vegetables. She also made time to quilt and be present to the elderly. There were no restaurants, only one store in town and no Catholic churches, which meant that Sister Rosemary would travel to Montgomery every Sunday for Mass.
“I miss the people so much,” said Sister Rosemary. She recently learned that the person who took her place left after six weeks of working there. The Edmundite Missions are now looking for a replacement. However, Sister Rosemary knows that it was the Holy Spirit who brought her back to Joliet. “I came to our General
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Chapter not knowing that I would be elected. It was a total surprise.” When asked if she likes her new ministry as Councilor and being back in Joliet she responded, “Living in Mosses was my ministry, a ministry I truly loved. But living with my Sisters is my Life!”
“She (Sister Margaret Alice) is our Sunshine Lady and she is truly remarkable. People love her here!” - Sr. Rosemary Huzl
Sister Margaret Alice Martinek also lived and worked in Alabama before returning to Joliet. She was the Director of Catholic Social Ministry for the Edmundite Missions in Selma. Sister Margaret Alice spent her days helping people. “I would help people with their utility and medical bills. I would help find rental housing and cover transportation needs. I would arrange for food deliveries and I taught religion classes. I was like a social worker. People would drop in and I would try to help them,” said Sister Margaret Alice. However, when Sister Rosemary Fonck was elected to leadership, Sister Margaret Alice knew it was time to also come back to Joliet.
Local Coordinator for the Sisters at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home
Today, you can find Sister Margaret Alice walking up and down the halls at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home (OLA), not as a resident, but as part of her new ministry. “She is our Sunshine Lady and she is truly remarkable,” said Sister Rosemary Huzl, Local Coordinator for the Sisters living at OLA. “Sister Margaret Alice comes to OLA from Monday through Friday and visits with both Sisters and lay people alike. People love her here!” She finds time to sit and talk. She helps people who are wheelchair-bound get to the dining areas and she is available for whatever is needed. “I know that the Sisters and residents at OLA sometimes feel lonely. I know how hard it is to lose your independence and I understand how hard it is to be on a schedule where everything is planned for you,” said Sister Margaret Alice. “That’s why I come here.” She likes quoting “Camelot,” and one of her favorites is, “that’s how conditions are”… she adds, “and you don’t get very far!” Sister Jackie Hirsch returned from Boca Raton, Florida, after nearly 50 years of ministry in the Sunshine State. She taught in Illinois and Ohio schools for over 16 years before being assigned to St. Coleman School in Pompano Beach. “I loved everything there,” said Sister Jackie. She taught at several different schools in Florida and also became the Social Studies Program Coordinator for the Archdiocese of Miami. Luckily, Sisters Marie Schramko and Janet Rieden also lived in Florida, and Sister Jackie made sure to visit them frequently at their home in Fort Lauderdale. In 2006, Sister Jackie retired from teaching and began a new “people-centered” ministry. She became a tutor for the National Coalition for Literacy, set time aside to be available for the elderly and became an active member of her parish’s hunger program. This would eventually lead her to help the homeless in Miami. “I met the mother of one of my former students who would go out twice a month to feed and clothe the homeless in Miami. I knew this was something I had to do.” So every other Friday, Sister Jackie got together with a group of women who would fill a van with clothes, sandwiches, hot coffee and water to make their way onto the streets of Miami at 4:00 in the morning. “This was a new experience for me. People
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The Joliet Franciscan
Sisters Vivian Whitehead and Jackie Hirsch.
would line up like 1st graders on the side of the van to receive food and clothes. I remember one man stretching out his hand to take a sandwich and then saying ‘Thank you, Mama.’ It brought tears to my eyes.” Today Sister Jackie lives at OLA. She felt it was time to come back to Joliet when she learned that Sisters Marie and Janet were returning to Joliet and would be living at OLA. “I was the last Joliet Franciscan to leave Florida, and I knew it was time to come back.” Because the pace of OLA is quite different, she is still getting acquainted to life in Joliet. “I grew up in the Congregation and was given so many opportunities. I am happy that I was able to fulfill my dream of helping people,” said Sister Jackie.
“Thank you, Mama!” -Words said to Sr. Jackie Hirsch when she handed a sandwich to a homeless man on the streets of Miami.
Sister Barbarine Houdek is a lively ball of energy. Last June, she left St. Francis High School in LaCañada, California, after 27 years of ministry there. She spent many years teaching English and up until her departure, was the librarian. “Times are changing, and everything is becoming computerized,” said Sister Barbarine. “God has ways of telling us things, so I knew it was time to leave.” Sister Barbarine was taught by the Joliet Franciscan Sisters at SS. Cyril and Methodius in Chicago, Illinois. “I remember I loved the smell of the habit from a very young age,” said Sister Barbarine. During the 8th grade she remembers saying that she wanted to become a Sister after they had heard a vocation talk. Soon afterwards, she remembers volunteering to come to school early to help. “The Sisters would drop the keys from the top window of the convent and I got to open the doors to the classrooms.” She became an aspirant in 1938 and became a Sister in 1942.
“I have never regretted one day or even one minute of my life as a Sister.” -Sr. Barbarine Houdek
After teaching for many years in Illinois, Sister Barbarine then sought to further her education in the theater. In 1979 she graduated from Northern Illinois University with a Masters of Theater Arts degree and moved to Southern California to work as a religion and theater teacher. “I have never regretted one day or even one minute of my life as a Sister,” said Sister Barbarine. “Even though not everything is always great, the Lord gets us through it.” Today, Sister Barbarine finds herself in a new ministry, “I am helping Sister Peggy Quinn at vocation fairs, and I love doing it.” You would never guess that Sister Barbarine is 91 years old and that she will soon celebrate her 75th jubilee.
Whatever the reason that brought these four Sisters back to Joliet does not matter. We are glad they are here. Welcome home, Sisters!
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Our Three Joliet Franciscan Centenarians As humans beings, we all strive to live long and productive lives. For the most part, people today do live longer, thanks to the advances made in health, education and disease prevention. However, there are other factors that allow people to live longer. If you search the internet, you will find dozens upon dozens of websites claiming the “secrets” to living to 100. I found that a majority of them agree that being a female, living with others, having a positive attitude, having a sense of purpose and having faith are the bases to living a longer and productive life. Which is exactly what our three centenarians have in common! This is the first time in the Congregation’s history that we are blessed with three Sisters who are 100 years old at the same time. Sister Marie Schramko joins Sister Mary Franz and Sister Mariarthur Hamann who both celebrated their 100th birthdays last year. Up until December 2015, Sister Marie Schramko was the Assistant Principal at Cardinal Gibbons High School (CGHS) in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Sister Marie had been the first principal for the girls’ section at CGHS upon her arrival in 1961. At that time, boys and girls were taught separately. Sister Marie remembers that when she arrived, “there was nothing but sand.” They were literally under construction while she taught. Today CGHS has buildings spread throughout an 18 acre campus. Long-time friend Brother Michael Brickman said in an interview with Fort Lauderdale’s Sun Sentinel: “There was no way the Sisters could sit at home when there was something needing to be done at school.” Sister Marie remained faithful to her position and her love for the students at the school. It is said that Sister Marie was present at all the sporting events on campus. Sister Dolores Zemont, President, remembers that when she came to visit her, Sister Marie left her alone because there was a home basketball game she could not miss.
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The Joliet Franciscan
Sister Marie’s dedication and support of the school was truly evident in all she did. On the day she and Sister Janet Rieden left CGHS, the entire parking lot was filled with students, faculty and administration. They were all clapping and holding posters. There was not a dry eye in the bunch. Sister Mariarthur Hamann spent most of her life teaching, though she was also a very good organist. “In those days, we were moved numerous times, especially if you could play the organ.” There was one time she remembers receiving five different teaching assignments, because of the need for an organist. “We did what we were told, but the Mother Superior did offer me an apology.” When she celebrated her 80th jubilee in 2013, she wrote that she had been a teacher, organist, principal, diocesan school consultant, diocesan director of teacher personnel, director and manager of the Will County Multiple Sclerosis Office and an adult education teacher at Joliet Junior College. “All were blest with challenges, successes, failures and the occasional blahs.” Anyone at OLA can attest that Sister Mariarthur has a true sense of humor! Today, she continues to pray, contemplate, read, write letters, make phone calls, do crossword puzzles and play Scrabble on the computer. Sister Mary Franz, the eldest of the three centenarians, now spends more time in contemplation and prayer. “My eyesight is failing and I don’t hear so well,” said Sr. Mary. Her macular deterioration has become so bad she can’t read the giant computer screen anymore. However, this does not dampen her spirits. Thanks to resources on tape she continues to keep her sharp mind engaged. Having been an educator since 1935, Sister Mary spent seven years (1960-67) in the service of the Congregation as Director of Postulants. In 1976, she reinvented herself and received training in Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) and remained in pastoral ministry until 2004, when she returned to Joliet. Her new-found mission has been to greet people as they walk into OLA and to visit the sick and infirm. She believes that living the Gospel means taking the words of the day’s Gospel and putting them into practice throughout the day. “The words are there for us to follow.” A few weeks ago, Denise Unland, a reporter from our local newspaper, the Herald News, visited our centenarians to From the top are Sister Marie Schramko, Sister Mari- write an article about them. When she asked what it felt like arthur Hamann and Sister Mary Franz. to be 100 years old, two Sisters responded that they had not noticed the passing years. However, Sister Mariarthur said, “I kept living and never thought about it until my body started falling apart. I began to think, Gee, I’m getting close to 100 - maybe that’s what happens!” All in all, we are truly blessed to have these Sisters among us.
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Connections by Lucy Sanchez
When I came to work for the Joliet Franciscan Sisters in 2008, one of the first persons I met on the Autumn Feast Committee was Mrs. Claire Millweard. A gracious, soft-spoken woman with smiling eyes and a warm heart, Claire had been a member of this committee almost from the beginning when it was called the 520 Club. Taught by the Joliet Franciscan Sisters at both St. John the Baptist School and St. Francis Academy (now Joliet Catholic Academy), she learned what it meant to be of service to others. “Growing up just a block away from St John’s, my mother would make sure that my brothers, my younger sister and I volunteered to help the Sisters in any way we could.” She remembers that, when she first got her driver’s license, she made herself available to drive the Sisters wherever they needed to go, since the Sisters did not drive at that time. After graduating from the academy, she went on to study at the College of St. Francis, but had to leave because of illness. After regaining her health, and because she had missed so many months of school, Claire decided to apply for a job and soon began working at ComEd. “I didn’t know this at the time, but this was how I would meet my future husband,” said Claire.
always according to our wishes, and I knew that a better life was carved and found for both Chet and Mary.” Claire was grateful for the Sisters’ support during these trying times. “The Sisters taught me to be tolerant and to try to accept things that can’t be changed. So I try to remain positive in my thinking and I hold tight to my devotion and to my Catholic faith.” On a happy note, Claire has been blessed with five grandchildren whom she cherishes and two great grand babies who are equally precious. She was also very excited to share that she will be welcoming another great grandchild in a few months.
“I had my eyes on him from the start. Chet lived about a block away from me and he worked at the railroad not far from where I worked. He was very handsome and I would wait by my window for the right moment for him to walk by. I would then casually walk out of the house, so that we could bump into each other.” Soon afterwards they began dating. They married in 1950 and had a family of 4 children, 2 boys and 2 girls. All of their children were taught by the Joliet Franciscan Sisters. Claire lost her husband in 2004 after 55 years of marriage. Her eldest daughter Mary died of cancer in 2013. These were two of the most difficult times in her life. “I realized that God’s plans are not
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The Joliet Franciscan
On behalf of the Congregation, Sister Dolores Zemont presents Claire with the 2015 Joliet Franciscan Heritage Award.
Claire Millweard and Fran Naal have been long time friends. Both received the Franciscan Heritage Award in 2015.
Today, Claire continues to volunteer with the Joliet Franciscan Sisters and other organizations throughout the Joliet area. She serves on the Afternoon Tea Committee as well as on the Autumn Feast Committee. She volunteers at Hospice and at The Visitation and Aid Society where she has twice been named president and secretary. She also spends time at Shepherd’s Table, a program at Daybreak Center. She served as President for the CCW at the Cathedral of St. Raymond, was a member of the JCA Alumni Association and was the chairperson for the style show. “How can you possibly say ‘no’ to Sister Anna Marie Becker, who was the Alumni Director at the time? I can still see her big brown eyes when she asked me for help!” She can name many Sisters who have made an impact on her life, but she holds a special place in her heart for Sisters Magdalita Morvay and Miriam Cecil Pfau. When she is not volunteering, Claire loves to cook, and of course, spends time with her family. She also has a group of friends who play a very competitive game of bridge! In 2015, Claire received the Joliet Franciscan Heritage Award along with her long-time friend, Fran
Naal. This award, given by the Joliet Franciscan Sisters, honors individuals who recognize the needs of their community and use their gifts of time, talent and treasure to care for those needs. “I was very excited, honored and most of all humbled. I didn’t feel I needed to be recognized for something I do out of love!”
Claire enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She also likes to read, cook and play cards.
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By Rita Travis
It hardly seems possible that what began as the kernel of an idea many years ago is now about to celebrate its fourth year as the area’s largest event of its kind. The Bluestem Earth Festival grew out of the Joliet Franciscan Commission on Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC). The Commission began during the first few years of this 21st century to give explicit expression to the concern for issues of social justice and the love of the natural world that has always been part of the Franciscan heart. The Bluestem Earth Festival has become a preeminent expression of this commission’s work.
2014 festival had 46 vendors and exhibitors and attracted about 300 visitors. At the 2016 event there were more than 80 exhibitors and vendors and over 1,500 visitors. Bluestem touches on issues such as sustainability Bl (reducing, reusing, recycling, composting), fair (r trade, zero-waste living, water conservation and tr other environmentally friendly topics. ot With an interest in outreach to the many socially Wi and racially diverse communities in the Joliet/Will an County area, the festival invited the Spanish ComCo munity Center and The National Hook-up of Black mu Women to particiWo pate. The National pa Hook-up provided Ho two sessions of tw book-readings for bo children, presented ch by “Real Men Read,” which included State wh Senator Pat McGuire Se and R Dale Evans an Askia. As
The first festival was held in 2014 A Wellness Corwith a mission to educate and empower Top: State Senator Pat McGuire was invited to read ner, added in 2016, for the children. Bottom: Face painting is one of the individuals and families to live healthier, children’s favorite stops at Bluestem. included nurses more sustainable and socially responsifrom Silver Cross ble lifestyles, and to build more resilient Hospital, nursing students from the University of communities. St. Francis, Healing Touch practitioners, massage therapists, a hypnotist, an acupuncturist, and a The festivals are hosted at The University of St. doctor of naturopathy. Francis with both indoor and outdoor venues. The 12
The Joliet Franciscan
In addition to the book readings, children’s offerings included creating “plant pals,” and art from recycled materials, and two shows, which brought in and educated about exotic rescue animals. The 2017 festival saw the inauguration of Bluestem University, a flagship program of the Bluestem Earth Festival that included original, intriguing, no-cost seminars within five “schools”: food, water, wellness, waste, and energy. The Bluestem Earth Festival is a free event and is made possible through the generous support of The University of St. Francis, Joliet Township Government, The City of Joliet, Will County, Heroes West, Presence St. Joseph, State Farm Lucy Brogla, D’Arcy Motors, among others, who have helped make the event possible with monetary and in-kind gifts.
Top: T-shirts that were sold at Bluestem Earth Festivals. Right: Sister Rose Marie Surwilo stops to visit the live owl. Bottom: A blacksmith demonstration held at Bluestem and souvener horseshoes were available. (Photos taken during various festivals)
Bluestem Earth Festival Held every year!
Bluestem Earth Festival is sponsored by the Sisters and Associates of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate.
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Welcome Our New Associates Each spring our Sisters and Associates gather at our annual Associate Weekend. This year six individuals will make their formal commitment to the Associate Relationship at our Sunday liturgy. Diane Brown, Gloria Cesario, Sheila Greuel, Lois Kiep, Mary Spreitzer and Kathleen Stair have been meeting regularly with their Companions and Associate Regional Groups, learning more about our Congregation and the lives of Saints Francis and Clare. We are also blessed to honor our two Jubilarians: Karen Fleshman (40 years) and Barbara Pals (25 years). The spirit of St. Francis and of our founder Mother Alfred Moes is once again renewed within each of us as we come together in celebration of our community. Diane grew up in New England but has made the Chicago area her home since 1983. She spent over 30 years in Information Technology, ultimately running large-scale international IT programs. She now has her own business writing grants for small companies and non-profits. She has a BS in Agricultural Technology, an MS in Computer Science and a Master’s Certification in Project Management. Diane is a lector at St. Edmund’s in Oak Park, Illinois, and also runs the St. Edmund Film Series. She has been involved with various missions and music ministries and volunteers with civic and non-profit organizations. She met the Sisters in 2015 and would like to support the community and its mission through prayer and service. Sister Mary Jo Young has accompanied Diane through the discernment Process.
Diane Brown Gl Gloria was born and raised in Chicago and brought up her family of four children in the western suburbs. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Francis. th She worked with the Veterans Administration for 27 years. Currently retired, she is Sh involved with many activities and ministries at St. Mary Immaculate Parish in in Plainfield, Illinois. Pl Gl Gloria met her Companion, Sister Juanita Ujcik, through volunteering in prison ministry and through criminal justice reform. Gloria’s faith-life is very important to mi her and she looks forward to becoming an Associate. he
Gloria Cesario 14
The Joliet Franciscan
Sheila has been associated with the Joliet Franciscan Sisters since her college days in 1981. She is thrilled to embrace the Franciscan Spirituality on a deeper level as her faith has grown with her companions in the Effingham area. She lives in Mattoon, Illinois, and is a member at Immaculate Conception Parish. She is the mother of three adult children and is a geriatric service consultant. Sheila’s passion lies in serving older adults. She is pleased that Sister Rita Vahling and Associate Eileen Hartke are her Companions in the discernment process.
Sheila Greuel Lois was raised in Braidwood, Illinois, as an only child whose father was a hardworking Russian immigrant. She attended St. Francis Academy and Mt. Mary University in Milwaukee. Lois met and married her husband, Bob, after graduation and had three children. She worked as a substitute teacher and then owned a flower shop in Joliet for many years. Moving to the Village of Our Lady of Angels in 2013 brought Lois closer to her Franciscan friends. She is looking for a deeper spirituality and feels being an Associate will bring her closer to God, St. Francis and St. Clare. Lois’ neighbor, Sister Mary Lou Marchetti, is her Companion, during the discernment process.
Lois Kiep Mary is a Human Resources Professional with senior level certificates from USF. She received her BA in Business Administration and her MBA from Lewis University. Mary has spent the past 14 years in higher education and describes her role as “serving those who serve our students.” Mary is married to Ken and has two daughters and two sons. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Center for Disability Services and is a volunteer tax preparer.
Mary Spreitzer
Her family are parishioners at St. Mary Immaculate Parish in Plainfield, Illinois, where she and Ken are involved in youth athletics and the Confirmation process. Coworker and friend, Associate Janine Hicks, is her Companion during the discernment process.
Kate is the youngest of 8 children. Her father died of cancer when she was seven. Her mother and brothers were instrumental in her attending St. Denis School in Chicago and graduating from St. Mary Academy. Kate and her husband Ray owned an art supply and frame shop. They retired in 2004 and spent time travelling. They were married for 26 years when Ray died in 2009. She joined St. Mary Parish in Mokena, Illinois, and became involved in different ministries. Kate serves at Daybreak Shelter in Joliet and has also travelled to Alabama and Effingham on mission trips. Sister Albert Marie Papesh and Associate Julie Kowalczyk are Kate’s Companions during the discernment process.
Kathleen Stair 15
Sister Juanita Ujcik and Sister Vivian Whitehead outside the Will County Jail in Joliet, Illinois.
Meet My Ministry Meet Sister Juanita Ujcik, OSF. Sister Juanita has been a teacher, a mentor, an advocate, a director, and most recently, an author. Sister Juanita started her ministry helping others in schools and parishes. She then spent twenty-five years ministering in prisons and jails, helping both the inmates and their families. In all of her ministries, she has found that helping does not necessarily entail giving people the right answers, “I don’t tell people what to do, I give them options, because every situation is different.” Following is her story. When the Congregation asked me to become the Social Justice Minister for the Congregation a few years ago, I realized that this was an opportunity to continue a ministry that had already been a strong part of my life. Twenty-five years of jail ministry taught me about all the things that go wrong on the outside – but it also goes wrong for people on the inside, though it is much harder and more difficult for them to handle. I sought assistance and support from many agencies to solve problems. My experiences in the past gave me insights for the present and future. I was already involved with programs and agencies that 16
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worked with the poor, needy and those incarcerated. I now work on current and future projects for the Congregation, the Diocese, and the Joliet Area. I am involved with national and international issues. I am a resource person and I collect and share information. MY ACTIONS COME FROM MY FAMILY AND MY FRANCISCAN SISTERS I am part of a large, extended family, living and working together and reaching out to each other, to neighbors and to others in need. It was not just at special events, but a way of life. I recall my mother and aunt helping a
From left: Sisters Juanita Ujcik, Mary Ann Hamer, Patricia Skowronski and Lucille Adelmann.
local family of elderly bachelors clean their home periodically and inviting them to dinner on special days. The men in my family worked together to build each other’s homes. As children we all pitched in and helped when we could. This is still second nature to me, and I try to balance time, energy and ability to offer assistance to others. I’m sure I will continue to do what I can even though I have less energy these days. My Franciscan Family has always encouraged me and been a support. Mother Alfred, our Foundress, gave us the spirit to do what needs to be done. FOR ME, LIFE IS A GIFT Each experience I have helps me to help others. The perspective from these experiences show me my gifts and limitations. It is a way to serve God and to recognize the miracles God does for us and for others. Life experience gives us all the grace to do the little things well and to share our success. Several times in my life people have thanked me for giving them information or direction that changed their lives. In a few cases, I know I never said what they quote to me. They heard the message from God that they needed to hear and had the courage and strength to change their lives. The one thing that has struck me about people in trouble is that most have very poor selfesteem. Frequently, other people have given them negative messages, and they now believe them. When you believe you will fail there is no reason to try again. Treating everyone with respect brings you friends and makes a difference in both their life and yours. Look people in the face, smile, recognize their successes, minimize their failures, point to positive futures and you will make a difference in their lives.
ANGER UNDER CONTROL HAS BEEN A MOTIVATING FORCE FOR ME. Anger is a strong passion or emotion of displeasure and antagonism. I get angry at evils, injustice, the system, stupidity, war, selfishness, deception and other negative behaviors. I use words and writing to make my point known. Working for justice has been my way of channeling anger to make changes. Anger is an emotion and you can’t just tell people to change. You can, however, change what YOU do and how YOU act. When facing a crisis, I get on a high-energy pitch and plot how to address the issue to make changes. I’m very good at telling others how to do things but I struggle to remain calm, productive and do what Jesus would have me do. I fail often enough to know that I am human.
Sisters Juanita Ujcik and Lois Prebil are members of the Anti-Racism Committee.
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FORGIVENESS IS FROM GOD I have always believed that Jesus forgives even the most serious crimes. I had to recognize my own failings first before I could speak to others of the mercy and forgiveness of God. In my time, I’ve encountered students who were already involved in criminal activity and would later be murderers, thieves and manipulators of the criminal justice system. I also saw their creativity, humor, courage and other positive traits. There is always sadness and a feeling of failure when people we know get into trouble. I work at not judging them. I learned to provide service to people who angered me and were difficult to trust. People who do terrible things often think only of “FORGIVENESS themselves; others is like are mentally ill, addicted and / or peeling an make poor choices. onion I’m not sure I can you go one forgive all those people, but Jesus layer at a time” can. In scripture, Jesus tells us to forgive seventy times seven times. On the cross, Jesus forgave the good thief next to Him. Often we are asked to forgive the same person again and again. Forgiveness is both a decision and a process. Forgiveness is like peeling an onion. You go one layer at a time. When we are ready we go to the next layer. God gives us the time we need and the strength and wisdom to understand. DOING WORK TO HELP OTHERS IS A JOY! I have enjoyed the challenge, the hope and the outreach to others in need that this ministry has asked of me. It led me to reach out, not only to the young but to the family members of all ages who suffer because of the poor choices of others. I know I have helped some people on the journey. Others are not ready to hear and to share but will be some day. Some will not be able to change even if they try. That has never been “my job;” this is God’s work and we are only able to do our small share.
Memberships, Activities and Actions as the Social Justice Minister • ARC ( Anti Racism Committee) Presentation Team Member for Community, Sponsored Institutions, Parishes and Civic Groups • USF (University of St. Francis) Member of the Diversity Committee • Concerned Citizens East Side - Member of Committee for Immigrants, Against For-Profit prisons, City Organization Issues • Community Focus - Against Trafficking, Racism Issues, Bluestem Earth Festival, Project Irene (Illinois Religious Engaging in Nonviolent Endeavors.)
Diocese of Joliet • Social Justice Coalition Member - Representing the Restorative Justice Committee • Diocesan Programs, Parish, CRS (Catholic Relief Services), Social Justice Issues • Restorative Justice Committee - (founding member) Focus on Education and Local Institutions • Reentry Program - Initial Committee • Legislation - local, state, national and international (visit, write and call) • Support Diocesan activities - Missions / Women / Youth / Education
Incarceration • Companions Journeying Together – Board Member, Gift Wrapping, Birthday Card project • Agape Mission Board Member, Project Hope, United Way, Housing, AIDS • Against For Profit Prisons - Committee Member • Death Penalty / Solitary Confinement / Bond for Low Income Individuals and other issues / study and provide information and resources to others My Book - “Let None Walk Alone: guidelines for family and friends of incarcerated people”
• •
Publicity / Signing / Talks Individual Contacts
Other Activities • Attend and participate in meetings / programs./ activities / fund raising events / make connections • Offer prayers / write minutes / contact local, state and national legislators/ write letters to the editors • Inform Sisters and Associates
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Purchase your copy today Sr. Juanita spent 25 years in jail ministry serving the incarcerated in the Will County Adult Detention Facility and DuPage County jail. She wrote this book because there was no similar material available for families. Few people understand the unique aspects of the system until they know someone and walk through it themselves. Transparency about the system makes it less daunting and unusual rules and policies more understandable. Sr. Helen Prejean, CSJ, author of Dead Man Walking, says in part in the book’s foreward: “I am overjoyed to recommend Sr. Juanita Ujcik’s compassionate book. This book will be a lifesaver for the people most hurt and ignored by incarceration: the families. It will inspire them to be more creative in helping their loved ones behind bars, whether in jail or prison. This book provides information, strategies, resources and common sense. In short, it is a gem.” If you are interested in purchasing Let None Walk Alone, please call the Joliet Franciscan Center at (815) 725-8735. The cost of the book is $14.00; with shipping and handling it is $20.00. 19
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Sister Therese (Mary Denis) Greaney, OSF On the morning of November 4, 2016, Sister Therese Greaney journeyed home to God in the same manner as she journeyed throughout her ninety-five years of life – peacefully, quietly, and contentedly. Following the advice of St. Clare, she “went forward swiftly, joyfully and securely without stirring up any dust.”
Sister Si t Therese Th G Greaney
Born September 14, 1921 Postulancy September 5, 1939 Novitiate August 12, 1940 First Profession August 12, 1942 Final Profession August 12, 1945 Entered New Life November 4, 2016
On September 14, 1921, Catherine (Murphy) and Patrick Greaney welcomed the birth of a baby girl and baptized their daughter, Therese. Raised in a loving, hardworking and faith-filled Irish family, Therese acquired the values and virtues that she and her three brothers and four sisters would share throughout their lives. Growing up in Chicago, young Therese attended Saint Rita School and Lindbloom High School. After her junior year, she transferred to St. Francis Academy where her attraction to religious life and the growing sense of her own vocation were inspired and supported by the Sisters who were her teachers and mentors. Therese entered the postulancy of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate on September 5, 1939, and made her first profession on August 12, 1942. Three years later, she made her final profession and committed herself definitively to living her vows with a generous Franciscan heart “all the days of her life.” A natural born educator, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to the ministry of education. Acknowledged by Bishop Joseph Imesch in 1985 with a Certificate of Recognition for her years of dedicated service in Catholic Education, Sister Therese’s reputation as a Franciscan educator was well-regarded in the Diocese of Joliet where she spent thirty-three of her many years as a teacher. In 1992, Sr. Therese embarked on a new ministry through Catholic Charities that involved a shift from children’s education to the accompaniment of elders in need of personal assistance and supportive concern. Recognized by Will County and the Diocese of Joliet as “Companion of the Year” and subsequently by the Governor of Illinois and the Illinois Commission on Community Service, Sister Therese was an exemplar of person-centered care and civic service. Throughout her seventy-seven years in religious life, she appreciated living with many Sisters and valued the diversity of gifts that came with inter-generational, inter-congregational and inter-cultural living. Describing herself as “quiet by nature,” Sr. Therese’s peaceful and calming presence made a positive difference in the lives of the many with whom she lived, and whom she companioned in times of illness, transition and uncertainty. She will be dearly missed.
You can read more about our deceased Sisters by visiting our website at: www.jolietfranciscans.org/in-memoriam/
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Sister Nicholas Tosseng, OSF As midnight approached on the evening of January 24, 2017, Sr. Mary Nicholas Tosseng took her final breath and passed peacefully into the embrace of the gracious God to whom she committed her life. Reassuring Sr. Nicholas and those who loved her that she would not die alone, the Sisters at OLA were at her bedside providing a prayerful presence throughout the day and evening.
Sister Nicholas Tosseng
Born February 24, 1928 Postulancy September 2, 1947 Novitiate August 12, 1948 First Profession August 12, 1950 Final Profession August 13, 1953 Entered New Life January 24, 2017
Born on February 24, 1928, Pauline Marie Tosseng was one of four children born to Helen Powell and Nicholas Tosseng. Growing up on Chicago’s Eastside, in the company of her two brothers and her sister, Pauline endeavored to make the most of her God-given talents. Though quiet and reserved on the outside, she was creative, resourceful and determined to prove that adversity in any form could not diminish the faith, hope and love of the family and neighbors she cherished. Educated at St. Francis de Sales grade school and high school, Pauline was no stranger to the Joliet Franciscans who influenced her childhood and adolescence while inspiring her to consider a religious vocation. On September 2, 1947, Pauline entered the postulancy of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate and enrolled in the College of St. Francis. She was received into the novitiate the following year along with her 21 classmates who constituted a most diverse group of remarkable novices. She was given the religious name, Sister Mary Nicholas and, while grateful to bear her father’s name, she also was delighted to share in the legacy of the famous and beloved bishop of Myra whose feast day heralded the coming of Christmas. On August 12, 1950, Sr. Nicholas professed her religious vows and a future of 37 years as an educator began to unfold. She began teaching from kindergarten through the seventh grade. She found her greatest joy teaching mathematics to students in the middle grades. Many of her years were spent in Chicago’s inner city at St. Francis of Assisi, St. Ludmilla, Assumption BVM and St. Francis de Sales. A lifelong learner, she was ahead of the times when it came to taking advantage of opportunities to learn Spanish and to couple that with computer theory and programming. As an avid cook and baker, Sr. Nicholas was a welcome addition to the local communities in which she lived and the parishes in which she served. No one went hungry or without seasonal treats fresh from the convent kitchen. Rarely would a guest or visitor leave empty-handed. A practical and precise seamstress when it came to habits, skirts, veils, baptismal outfits, kitchen curtains or living room drapes, Sr. Nicholas’ sewing machine was well-maintained and ready for action. And long before there was Uber, Sr. Nicholas was a generous and on-call motorist whose shuttle service between Chicago and Joliet was legendary. She was the parish secretary at St. Tarcissus, a sacristan for the chaplain at Cook County Jail, and a multi-tasking minister ready to assist anyone in need. Sr. Nicholas often worked invisibly behind the scenes. She was a self-sacrificing and hard-working woman of prayer. We give thanks to God and thanks to you, Sr. Nicholas, for sharing the gift of your life with us so faithfully these past 69 years. May you rest joyfully in the peace of Christ for all eternity.
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Sister Kay Francis Berger, OSF Sister Kathryne Francis Berger died on Good Friday, April 14, 2017, at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home. She was 83 years of age. Born on September 4, 1933, Kathryne Francis Berger grew up in Indiana. She was an energetic, curious and creative child. Attentive to the wonders of creation, she was drawn into the mysteries of the handiwork of God. She took delight in all that Nature had to offer, marveling at the uniqueness she found in every creature and every thing, great and small. An imaginative student at St. Francis H.S. in Mishawaka, Indiana, she began making the Franciscan charism her own.
Sister Kay Francis Berger Born September 4, 1933 Postulancy September 8, 1950 Novitiate August 12, 1951 First Profession August 12, 1953 Final Profession May 16, 1976 Entered New Life April 14, 2017
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Following in the footsteps of the Sisters who were her teachers, Kay entered the Postulancy of the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration in the Fall of 1950. The following year, on August 12, 1951, she entered the Novitiate and given the name Sister Mary Columban. On August 12, 1953, she professed her vows as a Franciscan Sister. In the years of ministry that followed, Sr. Columban was simultaneously a teacher as well as a student herself. In the course of her undergraduate studies at St. Francis College in Fort Wayne, Indiana, her interest in art and art history was intensified. In her pursuit of artistic excellence, she completed a Master of Fine Arts degree at the Catholic University of America, along with post-graduate studies in Art and Art History at the University of Notre Dame. In the early 1970s, after more than twenty years of teaching, Sr. Kay Francis had a profound sense that her vocation was evolving. Conscious of the God-given artistic abilities she had received, she discerned that she was being called to devote herself single-heartedly to participate in God’s mission as a Franciscan artist. With gratitude and affection for the Mishawaka Franciscan community that had formed her, she recognized that her rare and uncommon gifts needed to be stewarded in another congregational context if they were to flourish for the good of the Church, the Franciscan family and her own soul. Guided by the Spirit, Sr. Kay Francis entered into a period of unchartered exploration and discovery. In the process, she came to know the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate. In 1974 she began the canonical process of transferring congregations and on May 16, 1976, she officially transferred her vows to the Joliet Franciscans. In 1976, Sr. Kay Francis became an “Artist in Residence” at St. Francis Convent in Joliet. Her studio, fondly known as “The Canticle,” was a constant hub of unlimited creativity where she strove to find “new means of spreading the Gospel through her art.” Developing her special interest in Franciscan-themed art, she discovered countless ways of giving expression to the Franciscan charism. As a consequence of her immense body of commissioned works, her images of Jesus, Mary, Francis and Clare are frequently found and immediately identified wherever and whenever Franciscans gather. Her numerous awards and recognitions attest to the value and importance of the vocation and mission she embraced with contagious joy, untiring enthusiasm and gracious humility. Lovingly honored as the artist laureate of the Joliet Franciscans in 2015, Sr. Kay Francis has been and will continue to be recognized internationally as an artist for the worldwide Franciscan family. Like clay in the hands of the Potter, our Sr. Kay Francis Berger held fast to the conviction that we are God’s work of art. With deep gratitude for her life among us, let us give thanks to God as we now return to Him the gift of this most precious work of art.
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Edith Pietrzyk Edith became an Associate on April 22, 2001. Born in Chicago, she had three brothers and a sister, our Sister Dominic Krivich, OSF. She was married to Casey and had two children, Daniel and Linda, and a granddaughter, Jenny. Having a sister who joined the Congregation at the age of fifteen meant that Edith was involved with the Congregation most of her life. Edith’s life was rooted in the spirit of Saints Francis and Clare. She felt that with God’s help she had a good life, neither lacking anything of importance nor having an overabundance of unneeded material things. Edith Pietrzyk November 29, 1924 to February 3, 2017
One of Edith’s favorite quotes is attributed to St. Francis: “Start by doing what is necessary. Then do what is possible. And suddenly you are doing the impossible.” Edith’s life, dedicated to love of God and family, shows us that nothing is impossible. Edith died on February 3, 2017. Her companion was Sr. Dominic. We are grateful for the years Edith spent as an Associate and friend to our Congregation.
John A. Gallagher John (Jack) Gallagher was born in Waltham, Maryland. As a child he had a very close relationship with his two aunts who were Sisters. He felt that their encouragement and prayers were the pillars of his faith foundation.
John A. Gallagher February 15, 1938 to November 8, 2016
When Jack accepted the position as the Vice President for Student Life at the College of St. Francis in 1985, he and Marianne, his wife, moved to Joliet. Jack worked closely with many of the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate and felt he had found a home that offered him the same support and love he received from his aunts. Jack and his wife Marianne became Associates on November 12, 1989. In 1994, Jack submitted his resignation to the College and moved to New York. Although he and Marianne were geographically separated from the Congregation, Jack felt they represented the Congregation in all they did by living their life and treating all whom they encountered as Franciscans. Jack died on November 8, 2016. His companion was Sister Dolores Zemont.
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Mark Your Calendars Prayer Luncheon (NEW) Joliet Franciscan Center Wednesday, July 12 at NOON
Prayer Evening Joliet Franciscan Center 4th Tuesday of the Month at 7:00 PM
Prayer Breakfast Joliet Franciscan Center Wednesday, September 13 at 7:00 AM
Franciscan Autumn Feast Bolingbrook Golf Club Sunday, October 22 at 2:00 PM
Advent Evening Reflection Joliet Franciscan Center Wednesday, December 6 at 7:00 PM
“Not all of us can do great things, but we can all do small things with great love.� - Mother Teresa
Prayer Luncheon Joliet Franciscan Center Wednesday, December 13 at NOON Joliet Franciscan Center - 1433 Essington Rd More info at: www.jolietfranciscans.org