08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:28 PM
Page 1
PARTNERS IN GIVIN G Development Office of the Salesian Sisters Daughters of Mary Help of Christians www.salesiansisters.org
C
ould there be a more beloved Salesian Sister than Sr. Lydia Carini? Our former Provincial Superior (seated), who receives a loving gesture from Sr. Helene Godin at the St. Joseph Provincial Center in Haledon, NJ (the “House That Love Built”), inspired hundreds of Sisters during her 70 years of religious life – and continues to do so! Sr. Lydia’s story is one of many in The “Yes” Lives On (below), the official illustrated history of 100 years of the Salesian Sisters in the U.S., on sale now. See page 3. PHOTO BY JOHN GLOVER
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:29 PM
Page 2
Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s Letter Dear Friends, In this eleventh month of the year, it is proper to add our voices to the millions who will celebrate the feast of Thanksgiving: Now thank we all our God, with hearts and hands and voices; Who wondrous things has done, in whom this world rejoices; Who from our mother’s arms has blessed us on our way With countless gifts of love, And still is ours today. Today more than ever, we express our heartfelt gratitude for your sustaining love and contributions which speak of your deep faith and loyalty. We recognize the great economic downturn and we renew our partnership as we offer fervent prayers for God’s Almighty Blessings on you and your loved ones. Thank you for all your congratulatory calls, letters, and e-mails during this, our 100th year in the USA. Please continue to watch our website and this magazine for updates on our grand celebration in New York City in April as we reenact the arrival of our Pioneers in New York Harbor in 1908. Our illustrated Centennial History Book, The “Yes” Lives On, is on press and will be ready for delivery before Christmas. See page 3. In the name of all my Salesian Sisters, I wish you a happy and truly blessed Thanksgiving and a joyous Christmas. See you in the New Year!
Centenary Calendar Save these dates! December 7, 2008 Salesian Sisters’ Annual Christmas Party North Haledon, NJ January 30, 2009 Mary Help of Christians Academy Homecoming and Centennial Celebration North Haledon, NJ February 28, 2009 Florida Centennial Mass and Gala St. Joseph Parish, Tampa, FL April 25, 2009 Grand Centennial Celebration at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Gala Celebration aboard the World Yacht New York, NY May 16, 2009 Tri-State Centennial Celebration for all Salesian Schools, Alumni, and Friends North Haledon, NJ
Peace, For more information on these events, to attend, or to get involved, please call us toll free: (877) 687-6867, e-mail fmadevt@aol.com, or visit www.salesiansisters.org. We hope to see you!
2 • Partners in Giving • Volume XVIII • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:29 PM
Page 3
MAKING HEADLINES AROUND THE PROVINCE
A Christmas Gift of 100 Years!
T
he long-awaited Salesian Sisters’ Centennial History Book, The “Yes” Lives On, will be ready in time for Christmas! And can there be a better Christmas gift? Written by the late Sr. Josephine Carini, this 252-page full color, lavishly illustrated book tells the incredible, poignant, utterly human story of the Salesian Sisters, from the first four who arrived in 1908, to the hundreds of Sisters who spread the mission of service to young people and the Church across the continent. Don’t miss your chance to own a part of our history. Fill out the form below to reserve your copy today, and get ready to read all about it! Thank you!
YES! Please reserve ___ copy/copies of The “Yes” Lives On at just $25 per copy, including postage & handling. Total enclosed: $ __________ Please make check payable to: Salesian Sisters Name Address
Telephone E-mail Please mail this form in the enclosed envelope. Orders received by Monday, December 15, will be mailed in time for Christmas.
Credit Card Orders Welcome! Please call the Development Office: weekdays, 9 am-5 pm: (973) 904-0102 or toll-free (877) OUR-NUNS
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008 •
3
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:29 PM
Page 4
MAKING HEADLINES AROUND THE PROVINCE
Ball – and Bears! – Honored Our 100th!
T
he fifth annual Partners Circle Ball, held on October 30 at the Venetian in Garfield, NJ, was a tremendous success! With more than 250 in attendance, new and old friends alike came to celebrate the great work of the Partners Circle and its support for the Salesian Sisters. All proceeds raised that night benefit the Salesian Sisters’ Education Fund at Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ. The Dames of Mary Help, the women’s auxiliary fundraising arm for Mary Help, hosted and planned the incredible night that included entertainment by the Peter Lawrence Orchestra, a silent and live auction, dinner, and dancing. This year, the Ball honored all of the Salesian Sisters who dedicated their lives to the service of youth for 100 years. Thanks to a special donor, 100 adorable teddy bears were auctioned for $100 apiece, which got our evening off to a $10,000 start! By the end of the night, we raised over $150,000 to support Mary Help and her students. How can we ever thank you?! Heartfelt thanks to the Dames of Mary Help, chaired by Maggie Waitts; our Auctioneer, Jill Doherty; and our many Sponsors and Underwriters, especially Crown Roll Leaf, Inc., MCA Associates; Tiffany Florists; Phyllis and Anthony Chernalis; Thorunn, Berge, and Soffia Wathne; Maryann and Robert Harkins; the McAleer Family; the Rohde Families; Ann and Joseph Pfeifer; Aleta and Rich Taylor; TD Bank; and Therese Tolomeo.
Above: Mary Help students Genaya Palmer, Anita Muthee, Alyssa Trainum, and Mia Manzella encourage everyone to “GIVE A BEAR HUG FOR EDUCATION!” Mary Help alumna and current teacher Anna Duch (right) and our newest Dame of Mary Help, Deirdre Ward (below) of Glenrock, NJ, hug their Bears for Education!
Is anyone missing.... a silver, heart-shaped Tiffany key ring? The heart-shaped charm on the ring is engraved with a name and four sets of initials. The key ring was found at the Partners Circle Ball. To claim it, please call us: (973) 904-0102.
See you next year!
4 • Partners in Giving • Volume XVIII • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:29 PM
Page 5
Below, Sr. Teresita Teran admires the many fabulous silent auction prizes.
Sr. Rosalie Di Peri greets guest Aleta Taylor of Franklin Lakes, NJ. Left, Mary Help alumna and now Dame of Mary Help Monica Caldwell shares a smile with her former teacher, Sr. Esther Cruz. Below, Sr. Joanne Holloman (second from right) presents an antique litho of the Salesian Founder, St. John Bosco, to our new Novices who are preparing to become Salesian Sisters.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008 •
5
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:29 PM
Page 6
All together now! Ready to greet their guests at the Partners Circle Ball are (l-r) Sr. Virginia Dickey, Sr. Mary Anne Caspary, Sr. Christine Hellen, Sr. Catherine Novo, Sr. Carmen Peña, Sr. Mary Baroni, Sr. Mildred Zanetti, Sr.Lucy Balistrieri, and Sr. Claire Perino.
Above, having a ball at the Ball are Nancy Szymansky and Janie Englehardt of Crown Roll Leaf, Inc., in Paterson, NJ. Right, Mary Help of Christians Academy student Aleah McWilliams was one of the many Mary Helpers on-site at the Partners Circle Ball to help everything run smoothly. Thanks girls – you did a great job!
6 • Partners in Giving • Volume XVIII • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:29 PM
Page 7
Above, Sr. Mary Rinaldi welcomed Fr. Lou Molanelli, Principal of Don Bosco Prep High School in Ramsey, NJ. Right, Partners Circle Member John Connors of Wyckoff, NJ, with his adopted Sister, Sr. Cecilia Besi.
The Salesian Sisters gather to joyously sing their international anthem, “O Qual Sorte.” What a beautiful way to end an amazing evening!
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008 •
7
SALESIAN SISTERS’ PARTNERS CIRCLE Welcome New ‘08 Members in Red!
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:29 PM
Page 8
Partners Circle “Members”: Annual gift of
$500
ARIZONA
MASSACHUSETTS
NEW YORK
Ms. Tonia Kempfer A Friend
Ms. Josephine Petrillo Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading
Mr. & Mrs. Jack Betwarda Mr. Vincent Cagnetta Mrs. Joseph Clair Mr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio Mr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. James Dell’Orto Mr. Edward DeLuca Mr. Joseph Hill Mr. John Lombardi & Family Ms. Carol Martindale Ms. Elizabeth Nardone Mrs. Joan Oliver Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Roncallo Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Silveri Mr. & Mrs. John Weaver A Friend
CALIFORNIA Mr. Ian H. Graham Mr. & Mrs. Robert Obenberger A Friend
CONNECTICUT Mr. Frank & Ms. Clara Merenda Mr. & Mrs. Robert Mosey Mr. Daniel Tomaselli A Friend Anonymous
FLORIDA Mr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Bernardo F. Arenas Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Sr. Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor Bianco & Mansfield, P.A. Mr. James J. Burrowes Mrs. Yoli Buss Mrs. Trudy Carey Dr. & Mrs. Antonio Castro Colonial Bank of Florida Mr. & Mrs. Ted Couch Mr. & Mrs. J.C. De Lotto Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria Mr. & Mrs. Luis Garcia Dr. & Mrs. Reynaldo Geerken Mrs. Rose Graziano Dr. & Mrs. Jack Guggino Mrs. Elsa Gutierrez-Janulionis Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds Mr. & Mrs. Philip Rinaldi Hon. Judge & Mrs. E.J. Salcines Mr. & Mrs. Mark Spada Mrs. Peggy Theis Mr. & Mrs. Ron Yates Mr. & Mrs. Rene Zarate Mr. Bob Zurek
NEW JERSEY Mr. & Mrs. Gary Baccaro Mr. & Mrs. Robert Boland Mr. & Mrs. Larry Condit Ms. Elizabeth Crovella Mr. & Mrs. Frank Davies Dr. & Mrs. Frank De Maria Ms. Debi Debiak Mr. & Mrs. Robert Fox Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Giamonco Captain & Mrs. Victor Goldberg Mrs. Theresa Gutto Mr. & Mrs. Chris Layton Mr. & Mrs. Charles Lechner Mr. & Mrs. Doug Leonard Mr. & Mrs. Michael Losurdo Ms. Laura Mannarino Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Marangi Mr. & Mrs. John Peragallo Jr. Mrs. Ann Petrocelli Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski Mr. & Mrs. Cameron Reid Mrs. Amanda Rodriguez Mr. & Mrs. John Soldoveri Mr. Joseph Spinelli Mr. & Mrs. William Stuart TD Banknorth Deacon & Mrs. Asterio Velasco
NORTH CAROLINA Mr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard Mr. & Mrs. Chester Michewicz, Jr.
PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. David Fusacchia Mr. & Mrs. Jack Hedgecock Mr. Paul I. Sheaffer, II
TEXAS Mr. & Mrs. Bill Locklier
VIRGINIA Mrs. Dominique Faust
WEST VIRGINIA Mr. Guy Bucci
GEORGIA Mr. & Mrs. Charles Fantauzza
ILLINOIS Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Olivieri
KENTUCKY Mr. & Mrs. Jack Danehy
MARYLAND Dr. & Mrs. Andrew Saladino
Michael Bonbrisco of Greenwich, CT, visits his adopted Sister, Sr. Mary Rinaldi, in front of Saint Mary Church, where the pastor is our wonderful new friend: Msgr. Frank Wissel!
11/6/08
3:29 PM
Page 9
A new level! Partners Circle “Visionaries”
T
he Salesian Sisters and the Partners Circle are proud to announce a new membership level, “Visionaries,” with the inaugural gift of $25,000. The Visionary level has been established by a cherished friend and supporter of the Salesian Sisters in loving memory of her late husband.
Partners Circle “Associates”
Partners Circle “Benefactors” Annual gift of $1,000 ARIZONA A Friend
CALIFORNIA
Annual gift of $750
Geraldine & Joanne Rizzuto
FLORIDA
Mr. & Mrs. Peter Christiansen Ms. Mary Gaine Mr. & Mrs. David McAleer
Mr. & Mrs. Declan Mansfield
NEVADA Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Murray
NEW JERSEY Mr. Anthony B. Della Cerra
NEW YORK Mr. & Mrs. Bill Leahy
CONNECTICUT
FLORIDA Dr. Braulio Alonso Ms. Judith Cataldo/ The Handmaiden Foundation Ms. Caroljeanne Harkins Dr. & Mrs. Rod Jurado Mr. & Mrs. James W. Lee Dr. & Mrs. Hernan Leon Mr. & Mrs. H. Tyson Lykes, II Mr. & Mrs. Robert Mace, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. James Major Mr. & Mrs. Frank Middendorf Mr. & Mrs. John Oliva, Sr. Mr. & Mrs. Gene Perez Hon. Judge & Mrs. A. Rodnite
GEORGIA Mr. & Mrs. Michael Aquadro
NEW JERSEY Mr. & Mrs. Richard Badenhausen Mrs. Rosemarie D’Alessandro Mr. Alfonso Daloisio
T
Mr. Al De Vincenzo Mrs. Joseph Festa Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Laino Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Massood Mr. & Mrs. Brian McAuley Mrs. John McMahon Mr. & Mrs. Mario Monaco Mr. & Mrs. Jim Muller Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Palladino Mr. & Mrs. Jack Ramsey Weaver Marine Agencies
NEW YORK Dr. & Mrs. Michael Altamura Ms. Lea Battiato Mr. John Cassara Msgr. William T. Rodgers Mr. & Mrs. Matt Sabatine
NORTH CAROLINA Ms. Marianne O’Doherty
OHIO Mr. & Mrs. Albert Klaben, Sr.
PENNSYLVANIA Dr. Allyson & Mr. Kevin Hardy
TEXAS Ms. Theresa C. Rauber Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Wooldridge
he Partners Circle was founded in 1991 to provide unrestricted funds for urgent needs of the Salesian Sisters and their mission. These include support for capital needs, scholarship assistance, technology upgrades, and funds for those unforeseen situations that require immediate attention. Your donation to this unrestricted fund empowers the Salesian Sisters to continue their mission – the education and evangelization of today’s children. There are eight levels of membership, starting at $500, and these are listed on these three pages. Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group? Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you!
SALESIAN SISTERS’ PARTNERS CIRCLE Welcome New ‘08 Members in Red!
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
SALESIAN SISTERS’ PARTNERS CIRCLE Welcome New ‘08 Members in Red!
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:29 PM
Page 10
Joseph J. McAleer, Sr., Heritage Society Major Bequests to the Partners Circle CALIFORNIA
ILLINOIS
Richard Meissner, Meissner Manufacturing
Mr. & Mrs. Larry Peterson
Ms. Celeste Tripi
NEW YORK
INDIANA FLORIDA
Mrs. Beatrice Lightfoot
Dr. & Mrs. Vincent Bagli Mr. Ray Campo Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Garcia Angel Oliva Family Mrs. Ann Murphey Dorothy Thomas Foundation
Tony Amato Family The Carini Family Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Hoffman Mr. Anthony Petrocelli
NEW JERSEY
Mrs. Pearl Kalikow
Partners Circle “Stewards” Annual gift of $10,000
Partners Circle “Partners” Annual gift of $5,000
NEW JERSEY CALIFORNIA
NEW JERSEY
Marcalus Family Foundation Robert R. Waitts Foundation
Ms. Doriana Sobek
Mr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis Mr. & Mrs. Robert Harkins Mr. & Mrs. Bill McLaughlin Mr. & Mrs. Rodger Rohde Ms. Roberta Ruocco
The Sabatine Foundation, in memory of Philip & Josephine Sabatine
CONNECTICUT A Friend
NEW YORK
FLORIDA Dr. & Mrs. Nelson Castellano Mr. & Mrs. James Millar Mr. & Mrs. Lee Pallardy
TEXAS
TEXAS
Mrs. Betty Turner
Mr. & Mrs. Fritz Duda, Sr.
Partners Circle “Founders” Annual gift of $2,000 CONNECTICUT Mr. Michael Guarnieri Dr. Joseph McAleer
FLORIDA Mrs. Janis Boyd Mrs. Pilar Caso Mr. Ernest “Cookie” Garcia Dr. Idalia Lastra
MASSACHUSETTS Ms. Patti Gauthier
NEW JERSEY Mr. & Mrs. Marco Brizzolara Mr. & Mrs. John Connors
Mr. Anthony Gulino Ms. Ida Gulino Ms. Nancy Gulino Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Hoffman Mr. & Mrs. Edward Korn Mr. & Mrs. Michael Massood Mrs. Kathleen Medore Ms. Antonia Meola Mrs. Moira McBride Murphy Mr. Stephen Papetti Ms. Rose Perone Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer Mr. & Mrs. Mark Swartzberg
NEW YORK Ms. Jordon Carroll
Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala, Jr.
PENNSYLVANIA A Friend
SOUTH CAROLINA Mr. & Mrs. Tom Aldinger
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:29 PM
Page 11
O
ur family is so blessed to be a member of your family. This past year has been a difficult year for us. My husband lost his job in March, after 20 years. I never lost faith, telling him, “God has always taken such good care of us and I know He will continue to do so.” My husband just went back to work last month! Our dear Lord and His precious Mother kept me strong in those dark days. I know, too, that our Salesian family was sending strong prayers on our behalf. Now the least we can do is adopt another Sister! We continue to keep our precious Salesian Sisters always in our prayers. Navasota, TX
I
came home for lunch today to find my Partners in Giving magazine. As
N EWS FROM O UR M AILBAG I began to read it, a picture on page 4 took my breath away! In the center of the black and white picture taken in the school yard at St. Anthony’s in Easton, PA, at the bottom of the page is my mother’s face! She is the lady with the pearl necklace and the sweater standing next to Mother Caroline. She was about 30 years old in the picture. We actually have a copy of this very picture in our family album. Thank you for making my day! Ringwood, NJ
I
can’t tell you how much comfort Sr. Marisa De Rose’s prayers have given my family. In such challenging times, it means so much to us to know we have our own special angel praying for us. Our sons and our daughter have clearly benefited from your prayers, as have my wife and I. Please know you are in our prayers as well. God bless you. Kingwood, TX Wouldn’t you, too, like to Adopt a Sister? It’s easy, and as you can see it can be the source of many, many blessings. For more information, please visit www.salesiansisters.org, or call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you, and God bless you!
Leave a Legacy for the Salesian Sisters We depend on you!
T
hrough your offerings, you support the mission of the Salesian Sisters to young people – for the next 100 years! Special gift planning may include gifts of: • • • • • • • • •
Cash Appreciated stocks, bonds, or mutual funds Life insurance/Retirement plans Memorial or tribute gifts Wills Living trusts Charitable remainder trusts Named scholarships and endowments Real estate
Required to Take an IRA Distribution? If you are over the age of 70 & 1/2 and you are required to take taxable distributions from a traditional or Roth IRA, you may be interested in a special opportunity for tax-free giving to the Salesian Sisters. Please check with us or your advisor for more information.
If you would like to leave a legacy, our legal title is Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc., and our federal tax ID # is 22-6043753. For more information, please call: Sr. Mary Rinaldi, Director of Development: (877) OUR-NUNS, or Christina McAleer, Director of Advancement: (203) 921-9224. Thank you!
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008 •
11
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:30 PM
Page 12
MAKING HEADLINES AROUND THE PROVINCE
Farewell and Thanks, Mother Antonia...
O
n October 19, the General Chapter assembly in Rome paid tribute to the 4,380 days of Mother Antonia Colombo’s service as the Salesian Sisters’ Superior General. The assembly walked back through time, remembering something that will last beyond time and space: friendship, correctness of relationships, trust, forthrightness, interiority, tenderness, and authoritativeness.
riches of his glory to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inner self.” During her “Good Night” message, Mother Antonia addressed a wish that projects the Salesian Sisters toward a horizon without borders: “We are daughters of a founder who had a very strong intuition and who dared to do great things using little steps. Let us join our energies together. Let us be in the midst of young people with love. They will reveal to us their faces and, together, we will study in an evangelical and Salesian way what we are to do.”
These days of “grace” ended in a day of “thanks,” said one of the Chapter delegates who was one of the emcees of a three-hour, widely applauded, show of songs, dances, African proverbs, tales, and anecdotes. A round-up of symbols – starting from a twinkling heart pinned on the chest of every capitular – underscored the meaning of “gift,” through the use of metaphors: a vessel, the offering of a hand, seeds, sunflowers, a shell. But the sign that united the whole Chapter Assembly was its gift to the Mother General: the Bible, the book of Love. To recall some chapters of this story of love lived together: the beginning of the third millennium; the beatification of several Salesian sisters; the opening of many houses in the missions and in frontier zones; the reflection on: globalization, ethical relativism, liberalism, fidelity to the covenant, evangelical citizenship, intercultural relations, solidarity, economic solidarity, restructuring, and spirituality of communion. In the theater of the Generalate, we witnessed a believer’s interpretation of reality, a believer who is a real woman of God, Mother Antonia. She knew how to explore a person’s language;
Superior General, Mother Antonia Colombo, embraces Sr. Theresa Lee after taking her final vows as a Salesian Sister in North Haledon, NJ, in 2006.
how to see the beauty of every land; how to weave the wisdom of the heart with the truth. Hers is a life that knew how to dialogue with “the elegance of Providence.”
La Madre reminded us of the “treasure in our hands” as Daughters of Mary Help of Christians: “Education.” This “transforms the world in the competition for a shared love.” Mother Antonia then addressed to each Sister what Don Bosco said to Fr. Giulio Barberis in 1875: “You will continue the work that I have begun. I sketch it out, you add the colors. Now there is the seed . . . make it grow!”
The Superior General has dedicated time, resources, energy, and enthusiasm to this book that unfolds itself in life. She has given, above all, an apostolic interiority. And now she has ended her message with an expression of fidelity to God and to the human person, taking as her own the 14th verse of the third chapter of Saint Paul’s letter to the Ephesians:
We now close a chapter in our Salesian Sisters history, and open a new one. But it will still be a part of the same book. And we who have had the privilege of living this chapter in history do well to remember what the apostle John writes in his first letter: “We are writing this so that your joy may be complete.”
“For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that he may grant you in accord with the
We want to share with others the involvement this Superior General knew how to create, the witness that comes from life and reaches life.
Education is “the treasure in our hands.”
12 • Partners in Giving • Volume XVIII • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:30 PM
Page 13
MAKING HEADLINES AROUND THE PROVINCE
... As We Welcome a New Superior General!
E
very six years, a General Chapter is called in Rome, Italy. This is an international meeting of the entire Institute of Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (Salesian Sisters), summoned to review the life of the Institute and to project its path for the next six years. Representing our Province at the 22nd General Chapter were Sr. Phyllis Neves, Provincial, and Sr. Margaret Wilhelm. The General Chapter also elects a new Superior General of the Institute. Hence, we welcome Sr. Yvonne Reungoat as the new Superior General, as we bid a fond farewell to Sr. Antonia Colombo. After 136 years of Italian Superiors General, from October 24, 2008, a French Sister is now in charge, with a degree in History and Geography from the University of Lyons. Sr. Yvonne, age 63, has been a member of the General Council for twelve years and Vicar General since 2002. She was also directly responsible for four international communities in Rome. During these years, she shared with the outgoing Superior General, Mother Antonia, the various processes undertaken in religious life and in education, at world level, among the Salesian Sisters.
The new Superior General, Mother Yvonne Reungoat from France, is also the first non-Italian to head the Salesian Sisters in its 136-year history.
Spain and France. This responsibility allowed her to participate in General Chapter XIX. Her service of animation had already begun in 1983 as Provincial of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in her own nation. In 1992 Mother Yvonne was elected as Superior of the African preprovince “Mother of God.” During these years her priority was her relationship with the Sisters. She encouraged the formation of communities which had Sisters of different nationalities living the Salesian charism in unity, while in diversity. She was very interested in the young people in formation; she knew how to take on the poverty and suffering of the least and to collaborate with the Salesian family in the formation of animators.
“I accept, with the help of Mary, of Mother Mazzarello, and all of you.”
Her broad knowledge of the Institute began in 1990 when she was nominated delegate for Western Africa, on behalf of the provincials of
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Then, in General Chapter XX (1996), she was elected Visiting Councillor. During this time she got to know the sisters of six Latin-American, and four European provinces as well as Korea. During the General Chapter of 2002 she was elected Vicar of the Institute. Besides following up the communities which are directly dependent on the Superior General, she coordinated and organized five meetings for newly-appointed Provincials, and followed the collaboration of the Institute with the association of the promoters of the study of Salesian History. In 2004, she visited the communities of the Santa Teresa Province in Madrid and in 2005 “Our Lady of Africa” in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. When Mother Marinella asked her to accept, Mother Yvonne was very emotional and said: “I accept, with the help of Mary, of Mother Mazzarello, and all of you.”
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008 •
13
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:30 PM
Page 14
Memorials
A Love That Lasts Forever
Received between September 10 and November 4, 2008
You can honor a cherished relative or friend with an everlasting gift of love – a memorial. Our Partners in Giving Memorials & Tributes give you the opportunity to comfort those who have lost a loved one or to commemorate a special occasion.
Arthur Andersen Mr. & Mrs. Joseph DeVita
John Medico Mrs. Sylvia Harmatz
Nunzio & Nunziata Calogero Mr. & Mrs. Chance Nyman Kyle & Alexa Nyman Jared Terhune
Kathleen Murphey Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Moretti
Sr. Mary Carone, FMA Mr. & Mrs. Salvatore Sabia
Joanne Panto Ms. Nancy L. Corriere Mr. & Mrs. Lowell Romano Charles Saggese Mrs. Elizabeth Saggese
This gift lives forever. It supports the works of the Salesian Sisters & joins your loved ones to the prayers & works of the Sisters.
Kathleen C. Casper Dr. & Mrs. Christopher L. Trause, S.F.O. Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth J. Wolbach
The name of your loved one will appear in our Partners in Giving magazine – a priceless gift to those you love.
George Catallo Dr. & Mrs. Vincent Bagli
Give the gift that lasts forever.
Marie Hernandez’ Parents Mr. Alex S. Cohen
Felix Sanchez Ms. Brenda Fernandez Ms. Norma Fernandez Mrs. Celia L. Locicero Mr. & Mrs. Rob Menendez Mr. & Mrs. James Parrino Mr. & Mrs. Richard Parrino Mr. & Mrs. Rodolfo Rodriguez Mr. & Mrs. Ernest Urso
Thomas Keane Mrs. Margaret C. Donahue
Lucietia Willis Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Quinn
Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of: __ $25
__$20
__$15
__$
Tributes
Memorial for Name – DECEASED
Received between September 10 and November 4, 2008
Tribute for Name – LIVING
Occasion Please send an acknowledgement to:
Mr. & Mrs. Frank Conte Mrs. Shirley Salem
Karla Villarin Ms. Matea S. Esguerva
Sr. Pauline Joss, FMA Ms. Donna Ali
Name Address
My Name Address Detach & mail to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
14 • Partners in Giving • Volume XVIII • Issue 6
Y
ou may now adopt a Sister to pray for your deceased family member or friend for one year. It is a one-time gift; the suggested donation is $160. Adoption forms are posted at: www.salesiansisters.org, or please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS.
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:30 PM
Page 15
Give Thanks: Please Give Us This Day!
D
o you have a happy occasion you would like to share? The Salesian Sisters will celebrate with you for an entire month. Is it a time to celebrate a less than happy occasion? Our prayer for 30 days will celebrate this event in your life. Have you someone to thank? All of us will help multiply this gratitude to that special person. Then please “Give Us This Special Day”! Any and every event or person or situation that merits special attention will be publicized on a bulletin board outside our chapel. All the Sisters will pray for that person, event, and/or situation and for the person who requests prayer for the day. What a wonderful Christmas gift! The Sisters enjoy taking part in your family’s joys and sorrows. You have become part of our family, and that is a wonderful exchange of love and concern for each event. The Lord has assured us, “Where two or three are gathered in My Name, I am among them.” What better assurance can we have? Let this exchange of time be an example of our concern and love for one another. God bless you!
Remember when? In this photo from “The ‘Yes’ Lives On,” the history of the Salesian Sisters’ Centennial in the United States, we recall the ribbon cutting of the new St. Joseph Provincial Center on November 6, 1999.
Please Help Our Retired Sisters In Need! Please reserve this day/these days in 2009 in honor of my special intention to support the Endowment for the Saint Joseph Provincial Center for our retired Sisters:
• • GIVE US THIS
Day
Day 1 (Month, day):
Significance:
Day 2 (Month, day):
Significance:
Day 3 (Month, day):
Significance:
Total enclosed @ $100 per day: $ ____________ Please make your check payable to: Salesian Sisters
Name Address
Telephone
Please detach & mail this form to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008 •
15
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:30 PM
Page 16
Salesian Youth Report
O
n September 26, 700 students from grades 3 to 8 from three Salesian schools in Tampa, FL – Christ the King School, St. Joseph School, and Villa Madonna School – gathered for the annual Salesian Youth Rally at Mary Help of Christians Parish. The day started with an outdoor Mass (above), and youngsters prayed, played (right), and reflected together on their lives, futures, and on modern-day saints. “I now understand that by following our vocation in life, we have a chance of becoming a saint,” said seventh-grader Kelly Barry. Lisette Cotto, an eighth-grader, summed up the day: “As we assemble with students from different schools, we all form a Salesian Family.”
“We love the Salesian Youth Rally!” More than 700 students in grades 3-8 from three Salesian schools took part in the annual event. At left, Sr. Mary Jackson and fourth-grader Bryce Beamer make a fun science experiment using a bottle of Coca-Cola, one of the Rally’s many fun activities.
16 • Partners in Giving • Volume XVIII • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:30 PM
Page 17
Salesian Youth Report ST. THERESA SCHOOL, KENILWORTH, NJ – The children of St. Theresa School have a lot to be thankful for: a new playground! Bishop Manuel Cruz, Fr. Kevin Hanbury, and Sr. Joan Amelia Ferruggiaro, Superintendents of Schools in the Newark Archdiocese, were present on October 1 to celebrate with the blessing of the playground and the ribbon-cutting ceremony along with Fr. Joseph Bejgrowicz, pastor, Fr. José Erlito Ebron, and Fr. Alfred J. Kowalski of St. Theresa’s Church. Sr. Theresa Samson, principal, and Sr. Emy DeFilippi, vice principal, had a vision for a state-of-the-art playground for children of St. Theresa’s. The project was estimated to take two years to achieve, but was done in less than half the time. More than $175,000 was donated from very generous supporters throughout the community. The company that installed the play equipment, Giordano Contracting, went above and beyond with a beautiful landscaped garden complete with Guardian Angels. Enjoy and have fun, kids!
WOW! What a fantastic new play facility at St. Theresa School, made possible by our generous friends! And our Vice Principal, Sr. Emy DeFillipi, can vouch for the effectiveness of the slide!
Above, St. Theresa students Chris Hnatowski and Ashley Speers cut the ribbon to open the new playground, assisted by Sr. Theresa Samson, Bishop Manuel Cruz, and Fr. Kevin Hanbury. At right,our friends and donors gather for a group photo: seated, Sr. Theresa Samson, Jane Herbert, Wanda Grimaldi, and Kathleen Morales; standing, Sr. Emy DeFilippi; Arthur Mastapeter; Rich Picerno; Philip La Fereira, V.P. of the Siragusa Foundation; Toni Giordano; Mariva Arcure; Paul Adessa; Doreen Sacco; Robert Grimaldi; Linda Mast; the Mayor of Elizabeth, NJ, Christian Bollwage; Geovani Morales; and Dr. Girolamo Cuppari.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008 •
17
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:30 PM
Page 18
Salesian Youth Report ST. MARY SCHOOL, PATERSON, NJ – The National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association has honored St. Mary School with the “Picturing America Award.” The grant includes 40 high-quality, laminated 2 x 3 foot American art reproductions accompanied by a teacher resource book. This program will help students to understand and appreciate several decades of our nation’s art history. The resource book includes information on all the images and suggestions for using them to enhance classroom and library learning in a wide range of subjects including American History, Social Studies, Writing, Literature, and Civics. In his congratulatory letter, Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr., wrote: “I congratulate you on providing students with an outstanding education and encouraging students to use their creativity and imagination to reach their full potential.” The Picturing America Collection will be a great addition to St. Mary’s curriculum!
Seventh grade teacher, Mrs. Nancy McCabe, and students Emely Mercedes and Jovandy Rojas display the first poster of the series, which depicts Anasazi art.
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – Seniors at Mary Help just returned from the October Leadership Retreat (OLR) held at the Marian Shrine in Stony Point, NY.
Star Mary Help Leaders (l-r) Johanny Grullon, Amanda Castellvi, Kerianne Clarck, MariAlejandra Jimenez, Tonya Schneider, Sharon Flores, and Stephanie Pereira.
18 • Partners in Giving • Volume XVIII • Issue 6
The OLR is run by the Salesian Office of Youth Ministry and provides participants a chance to foster a deeper Salesian identity and love for Don Bosco. They spend time with students from Salesian schools throughout the Eastern U.S., sharing one faith and creating lasting friendships. Mary Helpers returned eager to bring the Salesian spirit back to their school!
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:30 PM
Page 19
Salesian Youth Report MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – Hats off to Sr. Maryann Schaefer (right), who was nominated for Girls’ Softball Coach of the Year by her fellow coaches for Passaic County. The nomination was based on the following: being a member of the Passaic County Coaches Association; being a head varsity coach; possessing excellence of character; promoting sportsmanship and ethics; showing active
service to the school, community, county, and state; and having an outstanding season. Sr. Maryann fulfilled all with flying colors! Sr. Maryann’s leadership role, along with her “three Dads” (Mr. William Redmon, Mr. Michael Sulick, and Mr. Richard Hunter, all fathers of players), helped the Mary Help of Christians Blue Jays softball team attain a first-ever championship. Congratulations, Coach! On to next year!
ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL, HAWTHORNE, NJ – “Get your lemonade here!” Fifth-graders Brooke Heideger and Megan Pascrell hosted their second-annual lemonade stand, to raise money for St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital in Paterson. Well done, young entrepreneurs!
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008 •
19
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:30 PM
Page 20
Salesian Youth Report ACADEMY OF OUR LADY HIGH SCHOOL, MARRERO, LA – Student and adult volunteers offered hot meals and spiritual support (right) on September 20 to people recovering from Hurricanes Ike and Gustav. The Academy’s family and other community members raised nearly $2,500 to aid residents of the nearby communities of Lafitte, Barataria, and Crown Point in the aftermath of devastating flooding that impacted hundreds of houses and businesses. The generous donations were used to stage a huge cookout at Lafitte Town Hall. Volunteers towed a huge barbecue grill on wheels to the site, and 34 Academy students and 14 teachers cooked up enough burgers and hot dogs to serve nearly 1,200 boxed lunches to residents who needed a break from cleaning up their flooded homes.
Academy of Our Lady High School students and volunteers serving some of the 1,200 boxed lunches that were served to persons recovering from Hurricane Ike’s massive storm surges in the nearby communities of Lafitte, Barataria, and Crown Point.
Meanwhile, four Academy students used a week of their summer vacation to work with children at the Guatemalan Maya Migrant Camp (left), hosted by Immaculata-La Salle High in Lake Worth, FL. They taught classes in religion, cooking, art, chorus, drama, and athletics. The youth are the children of the Maya people who have been persecuted in their home nation of Guatemala. The Maya migrated to the U.S., and their parents often work long and hard hours just to provide the basic necessities of life.
Academy of Our Lady student Marlena Swilley (back row with sunglasses) and Ashley Taggert, a senior from Immaculata-La Salle High in Miami, spent a week of their summer vacation offering enrichment and care to these Maya youth in Florida.
20 • Partners in Giving • Volume XVIII • Issue 6
Sr. Michelle Geiger says the camp provided a learning experience about volunteerism: “The most important thing we can teach our young people today is how to be active in our communities and to serve others.” – Joseph Bordlee
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:31 PM
Page 21
Salesian Youth Report
SACRED HEART SCHOOL, DOVER, NJ – Smiles were the order of the day when Sacred Heart School kicked off its 85th year in September, under the leadership of Sr. Domenica Di Peri, principal (left). At top, the happy members of next year’s 85th graduating class join their teacher, Mrs. Arlene Zagarino. Below, Grades 7 and 8 presented an assembly to honor those who perished in the 9/11 attacks.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008 •
21
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:31 PM
Page 22
Salesian Youth Report POPE JOHN PAUL II SCHOOL, CLIFTON, NJ – Under the direction of Mrs. Winnie Reynolds, the kindergarten class has been learning about sensory awareness. The students recognized that they use their senses to enjoy God’s wonderful world. The class had a cooking experience where each child brought in an apple to make applesauce. This appealed to all their senses. The students helped in measuring the ingredients and, like little waiters and waitresses, a couple of students (including Matthew Gutierrez and Brianna Ventura, right) went around the school and gracefully served applesauce to as many people as they could, including Sr. Judith Suprys, principal, Miss Fields, vice-principal, and the office staff. The discovery of their senses through this activity is an experience they will never forget!
Looking for the perfect gift for Christmas, a birthday, anniversary, Baptism, wedding – any occasion?
Then how about Adopting a Sister? It’s the gift that keeps on giving! For more information, visit www.salesiansisters.org or call toll free today: (877) OUR-NUNS!
22 • Partners in Giving • Volume XVIII • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
4:01 PM
Page 23
Please Gift the Gift of a Salesian Education!
C
ould there be a better Christmas gift than providing a quality, faith-filled, Salesian School education for a child? You can make it happen by supporting one of our Endowed Scholarship Funds! Please check one (or more) on this page, fill in the details below, and mail this page with your donation in the enclosed envelope. God bless you! The Josephine Campo Scholarship Fund, est. by her daughter, Diana, to aid Villa Madonna School students, Tampa, FL.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Sr. Wilma Sanchez Scholarship Fund, est. by her brother, Arsenio Sanchez, benefits students of St. Joseph’s School in Tampa, FL.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Corrado Scholarship Fund, est. by the children, to aid a freshman at Mary Help of Christians Academy.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Rose La Malva Scholarship Fund, est. by her children, gives financial aid to freshmen at Mary Help of Christians Academy.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Robert R. Waitts Scholarship, est. by his wife, Maggie, for students at Villa Madonna School and at Mary Help.
__ Yes! I want to help!
The Joan Cullinan Scholarship Fund, est. by her husband & friends, memorializes the beauty & spirit of a September 11 victim.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Clair/Militello Scholarship Fund, est. by the Clairs, in honor of their parents, & by Fr. Benedict Militello, for Mary Help.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Frances Evelyn Grandoff Endowment, est. by her daughter, Betty, aids students with high academic potential.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Hope M. McAleer Scholarship Fund, est. by her family, will enable young women to attend Mary Help of Christians Academy.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Joseph J. McAleer Vocations Fund, named for the Partners Circle founder, est. by his family, will foster Salesian vocations.
__ Yes! I want to help!
The Dr. Leigh Grieco Cascarilla Scholarship, est. in her memory by friends so young women can pursue higher education.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Ana Maria Auxilium Award, est. by the Baldor family, to benefit students at Villa Madonna School and at Mary Help.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Mary Santa Cruz Trout Endowment, est. by her family, was the first fund to aid students at Villa Madonna School in Tampa, FL.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Rev. August P. Bosio Scholarship Fund, est. to honor this Salesian priest by his friend, benefits Mary Help students.
__ Yes! I want to help! The Dolores & Victor De Lucia Scholarship, for students at Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ.
__ Yes! I want to help!
Please accept my donation for ___________________________________________ in the amount of: $ _______________ Your Name: ___________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________ ______________________________________________ Telephone: ________________ E-mail: _______________________ PLEASE DETACH & MAIL IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. PLEASE MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: SALESIAN SISTERS
08-0708 Salesian Sisters
11/6/08
3:31 PM
Page 24
PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bimonthly magazine published by the
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Telephone: (973) 904-0102 Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS Fax: (973) 904-0041 E-mail: fmadevt@aol.com Website: www.salesiansisters.org Federal Tax ID # 22-6043753 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc. PRIVACY POLICY: Your name, address, and other information are held in confidence by our ministry and will never be sold, rented, or given to any other organization.
Editorial Board Dr. Joseph McAleer, Editor Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of Development Mrs. Christina McAleer, Director of Advancement Mrs. Janet Arias-Rodriquez, Production Manager Partners in Giving welcomes letters, articles, and photos from contributors. We reserve the right to edit for publication.
Have You Moved? Please help us update our mailing list. If the address on this magazine at right is incorrect, kindly fill in this form with the correct information & mail it to our office. Many thanks! Name: Address on label:
Correct Address:
Partners in Giving • Holiday 2008
O
n October 3, the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi came alive for the children of St. Joseph School in Tampa, FL, when they brought their pet dogs, cats, hamsters, guinea pigs, parakeets, beta fish, and turtles to be blessed by the pastor, Fr. Felix Sanchez, with the help of Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza, principal. The stars of the day’s event were Piccolina, the parish mascot (held by Fr. Sanchez), and Annie and Hobo, the school mascots. Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage P A I D Clifton, NJ Permit No. 1104