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Christmas 2021 • www.salesiansisters.org
P artners in GivinG
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Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s letter Dear Friends, The Buckeye State is uppermost in the hearts and minds of Salesian Sisters these days, as we have embarked on a new mission in Columbus, Ohio. The four Sisters spelling out their adopted state’s name on our cover: Sr. Joo Yun Park, Sr. Monique Huart, Sr. Loretta DeDomenicis, and Sr. Guerline Joseph, are following in the footsteps of St. Francis de Sales, patron of all Salesians, at his namesake high school – and having a ball. See page 3. We’re getting very good at organizing virtual fundraisers! Sincere thanks to all who participated in our Autumn Gala (see page 5) and the Thanksgiving Basket (page 17). Please God, may we all meet in person next year, and put this pandemic behind us! Please consider joining our Salesian Sisters Partners Circle in the New Year! Membership supports an unrestricted “rainy day” fund for unexpected expenses, and has been a lifeline for the Sisters and their mission for over 30 years. See page 8. Wishing you and your loved ones a Blessed Christmas and a safe, happy, and holy New Year, Peace,
PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bimonthly magazine published by the
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office 659 Belmont Ave., N. Haledon, NJ 07508 Telephone: (973) 904-0102 Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS E-mail: SalesianPartners@gmail.com Website: www.salesiansisters.org Social Media: https://linktr.ee/salesiansisters
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“Missionary Society Salesian Sisters”
• Partners in Giving • Volume 31 • Issue 6
Welcome, Mother Chiara!
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he Salesian Sisters rejoice in the election of Sr. Chiara Cazzuola, FMA as the 11th Superior General of our religious order, the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. In this role, she will lead the 11,535 Salesian Sisters around the world over the next six years. Sr. Chiara is called to embody the motherhood of our co-foundress, St. Mary Domenica Mazzarello, and share a new season of prophecy in the Institute at the service of the Catholic Church. A native of Campiglia Marittima in the province of Livorno, Italy, Mother Chiara, 66, has been professed as a Salesian Sister for 46 years. She holds a degree in literature and served as a teacher and principal for many years. She most recently served as Vicar General of the Institute. We also thank Mother Yvonne Reungoat, FMA who so generously and capably served as 10th Superior General for the past 13 years. We offer her the gratitude of all Salesian Sisters, the Salesian Family, educating communities, and young people around the world!
Editorial Board Dr. Joe McAleer, Editor Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of Development Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA, Editorial Manager Sr. Suzanne Dauwalter, Theresa Anderson & Anna Anderson, Copy Editors Federal Tax ID # 22-6043753 © 2021 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. Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Sr. Loretta DeDomenicis chats with students from Ohio State University at one of their Catholic student retreats.
Our new outreach in Columbus, Ohio
Faith, family, and tradition in abundance
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t has been an amazing blessing to be in Ohio, in the Diocese of Columbus. Four Salesian Sisters arrived in August to begin a brand new outreach: Sr. Monique Huart, Sr. Guerline Joseph, Sr. Joo Yun Park, and myself. News about us spreads very quickly around town. For example, if we appear at a school football game, the picture or story of the Sisters rapidly spreads throughout Columbus. It’s really fun! Columbus may be a large city, but the Catholic community is like a small town in the sense that everyone knows everyone. For the Salesian Sisters to be serving in St. Francis de Sales High School is a great gift. The spirit of St. Francis, patron of the Salesian Order, is vibrant and very evident in this school. There are statues and sayings of St. Francis everywhere, and he is included in our daily prayers. Three words identify the school: Faith, Family, and Tradition. Faith is very much alive and evident in the behavior and attitudes of staff and students. This is an
environment where people truly care for each other and get along so well. Our principal, Mr. Dan Garrick, is a holy, prayerful man. More than 100 staff members and 900 students form one united family with school alumni. Many teachers, parents, and local business owners are past pupils.
Above, Sr. Loretta and Sr. Monique pose with the school mascot, a stallion. At left, Sr. Guerline and Sr. Joo Yun show their school spirit!
The Vicar for Religious of the diocese, Fr. Stash Daily, personally looks after and knows each Sister in the diocese and somehow finds many benefactors who provide for the Sisters and their convents. When we tell him that we could never thank him enough for his thoughtfulness, his answer is, “Just be faithful.”
I could go on and on about the amazing things that we experience every day from the families, faculty and staff of the school and members of the diocese. Many times, I feel overwhelmed by kindness. If I could sum up what we Sisters feel in being here in one word, it is simply this: Grateful.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
– Sr. Loretta DeDomenicis, FMA Partners in Giving • Christmas 2021 •
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onstruction of the new St. Joseph Chapel continues! Our special visitor from Rome, our former Provincial Superior, Sr. Phyllis Neves (below), loved the tour and is excited that the chapel will open next May!
Leaving a legacy to the Salesian Sisters
Please include us in your estate planning
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t’s Christmastime, the season of giving. We are often asked if the Salesian Sisters can be named as beneficiaries of an estate. The answer is yes! In fact, the beneficiary of your estate can be a non-profit organization or charity, in addition to a loved one. You can designate a defined dollar amount, specific assets (such as stock), or a percentage of your total estate. Leaving a legacy to the Salesian Sisters in your will is a wonderful way to make a lasting impact, ensuring that the Salesian mission to children and young people will endure and thrive. Our official name is “Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc.” Consult your attorney, or contact us for more information: (973) 904-0102 or (877) OUR-NUNS. As always, thank you for your generosity!
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 31 • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Benefiting Mary Help of Christians Academy
Veterans take center stage at virtual Gala
Above, Sr. Mary Rinaldi and our Gala emcee, Larry Gold. At right, one of our Gala Ambassadors, retired U.S. Army Corporal Michael Losurdo, Sr.
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s we continue to maneuver through the changes and challenges these last two years have brought, one thing we never lose sight of are the needs of students at Mary Help of Christians Academy. For the second year, the Development Office had to host their annual Autumn Gala virtually. Thank you to our sponsors and those who donated silent auction items, who made this year’s virtual Gala a huge success, helping us raise much-needed funds for the Mary Help Financial Aid Fund. This year was particularly special. With the gala held on November 11, Veterans Day, it was natural to honor
and pay tribute to the men and women in active military service and to our veterans. A huge thank you to our Gala Ambassadors, Michael Losurdo, Sr., Bill McLaughlin, and Catherine and Elizabeth Livi, all who serve or have served in the military and have direct ties to Mary Help. Special thanks also to our emcee, Larry Gold, for doing an outstanding job effortlessly moving the program along. Lastly, thank you to everyone who tuned in that night, and for your generous donations! God bless you always! And, with His help, we may see you in person at the 2022 Autumn Gala!
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very year, the Salesian Sisters tend an ever-growing flock of special Christmas “Doves,” borne of your faith and love and sent by you during this season of hope. The greatest gift we can offer our loved ones is a prayer for peace – the kind Jesus promised. As each Dove for Peace containing your special intention is placed in our chapel, be assured that your loved ones are remembered in daily Mass and prayer. Celebrate the birth of your Savior with your Dove for Peace. Your generous donation will provide funds to support our mission among young people. Invitations have been mailed, but you can also call us to reserve your Dove: (973) 904-0102 or toll free (877) OUR-NUNS.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Christmas 2021 •
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Now more than ever
Please Adopt a Sister!
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specially in these uncertain times, please consider joining our friends of all faiths who have experienced the transforming power of prayer and loving friendship with a Salesian Sister, every day of the year, through our Adopt a Sister Program. Whether the Adopted Sister is for yourself, a family member, or a friend in need of spiritual strength, you will find comfort knowing that your intentions will be remembered each day by your spiritual prayer partner. And it makes the PERFECT gift, especially for a wedding, Confirmation, birthday, anniversary, Christmas – any occasion!
Happy Sisters! Sr. Hae-Jin Lim, Sr. Isabel Garza, and Sr. Colleen Clair smile for the camera.
Please complete the form below, visit us online at www.salesiansisters.org, or call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you, and God bless you!
CVV: _____________
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 31 • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
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BACK IN THE DAY
All together now! Salesian Sisters and women in initial formation are thrilled to see each other in person for the first time since before the pandemic began.
century ago, the Salesian Sisters moved to their new permanent home in North Haledon, NJ, on the Muhs Estate. This 1922 photo, taken on the front porch of what was then called St. Michael Orphanage (or the White House), shows the young orphans and the first four Sisters who cared for them: Sr. Mary Simonetti, Sr. Antoinette Agliardi, Sr. Mary Pollini, and Sr. Rosina Costanzo.
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or the past 19 years, the Baldor family has awarded scholarships at both Villa Madonna School as well as Mary Help of Christians Academy – an incredible 245 scholarships in memory of Ana Maria Baldor-Bunn! Prior Villa scholarship recipients express their thanks to the family: (left) Javier and Cindy Baldor with their son, Nicholas; (center) Liana Baldor; and (right) Carlos Jr. and Kiki Baldor. The Baldors are also active members of the Salesian Sisters Partners Circle, described at right. Both Carlos and Javier also serve on the National Board, and Javier is a past Chairman. Annual membership over the past 30 years has helped the Salesian Sisters fund student financial assistance, brick and mortar projects throughout the Province, and Vocation Programs, to name a few. There are eight levels of annual membership. Please join this dynamic group and be part of the mission in action! Thank you and God bless you!
Yes! I wish to join the Partners Circle!
Please use the enclosed envelope. Thank you!
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he Salesian Sisters 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 (such as during the COVID-19 pandemic). Your annual contribution to this fund empowers the Sisters to continue their mission: To Provide Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and to the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life. The fire which destroyed St. Joseph’s Chapel in North Haledon, NJ, in 2018 underscored the vital importance of the Partners Circle Fund, enabling the Sisters to respond quickly in an emergency and begin the rebuilding process.
30th
There are 8 levels of membership, starting at $250, which are listed on these three pages. PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees, a group of talented lay people who advise the Sisters on distribution of the fund. Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group as we celebrate our 30th anniversary? Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS, or complete the form on the opposite page. Thank you,and God bless you!
The Joseph J. McAleer, Sr. Heritage Society Major Bequests FLORIDA Dorothy & Dr. Vincent Bagli Josie & Ray Campo Anne & Joseph Garcia Ann Lowry Murphey Angel Oliva Family The Dorothy Thomas Foundation
NEW JERSEY Tony Amato Family The Carini Family Mr. Anthony Petrocelli Ms. Roberta Ruocco Ms. Celeste Tripi Mr. Vincent Waraske
Partners Circle “Partners” Annual gift of $5,500
FLORIDA Mr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor Ms. Caroline Barnhill Lydia & John Oliva Mrs. Beverly Rohde Susan & Jeff Turner --NEW JERSEY Al Daloisio, Jr. Mr. Robert Harkins Maria L. Lopez Mr. Bill McLaughlin Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer Joseph & Rita Weiner
INDIANA Mr. & Mrs. Judson Church --NEW YORK Mr. John Cassara Beruta & James Dell’Orto
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Welcome
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new or upgraded Partners Circle Members in 2021! Shown in RED
Partners Circle “Stewards” Annual gift of $11,000 FLORIDA Sherry Millar --NEW JERSEY Anonymous
Partners Circle “Friends” Annual gift of $3,300
CONNECTICUT Mary Bridget Gaine --FLORIDA Idalia Lastra Barket Anthony & Geraldine Dell’Orto --MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair PC
NEW JERSEY Chris & Gemma Chong Frank & Rosemary Lupo Family --PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow
Partners in Giving • Christmas 2021 •
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Partners Circle “Founders”
Annual gift of $2,200
CONNECTICUT Christina & David McAleer PC --DELAWARE Maria Sturchio --FLORIDA John & Pat Connors Anthony & Diana Ekonomou Lowry Murphey Family Foundation Mrs. Kathleen Medore NEW JERSEY Joseph Batelli Mr. Robert Eliseo Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann Mr. & Mrs. Anthony M. Laino Marilyn & Dale Livi
Mr. Joseph Massood Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Papetti Andrelisa Michel & Michael Russo --NEW YORK Jordon Carroll Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala --PENNSYLVANIA In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA --SOUTH CAROLINA Tom & Laurie Aldinger
Partners Circle “Benefactors” ARIZONA Mrs. Ann Marie Forster --CALIFORNIA Mary & Robert Obenberger --COLORADO Jamie & Paul Condit --CONNECTICUT Linda & Peter Christiansen PC Mr. Michael Guarnieri PC Fabrizio & Barbara Zichichi FLORIDA Anne & John Bedlek Joseph & Claudine Caballero PC Terrell & Joe Clark Maria Restrepo Forte Dr. Giacomo & Mrs. Judy Guggino Aida Yglesias Jurado Greg & Lori Korte Barbara & Jim Major Mr. & Mrs. Frank Middendorf Robert Nocek
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Mr. & Mrs. Rob Obbink Ms. Marianne O’Doherty Mr. Fredy Padovan Gene & Linda Perez Mr. Nick Suszynski PC --GEORGIA Mr. Robert Reiter --MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Neil Holmes Deirdre Kelleher Mr. & Mrs. Ted Reading --NEW JERSEY Ms. Debi F. Debiak, Esq. Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Della Cerra Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell James Construction Co., Inc. Michael & Mary Losurdo Mrs. Faith Menard Robert & Constance Sumas Mrs. Carolyn Young NEW YORK Ms. Lea Battiato Jo Ann & Joseph Caracappa PC
• Partners in Giving • Volume 31 • Issue 6
Welcome new 2021 members in Red! PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees. Our Mission: To Provide Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and to the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life.
Annual gift of $1,100
The Sabatine Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Silveri
PENNSYLVANIA Dr. Allyson & Mr. Kevin Hardy
Partners Circle “Associates” Annual gift of $825
CONNECTICUT Dr. Joe McAleer PC --FLORIDA Declan & Shelly Mansfield Anne & Fred Michaels Rene & Phyllis Rodriguez Mr. & Mrs. Terry Wood --NEW JERSEY Joseph W. & Kathleen Buckley Mr. & Mrs. Greg Scott Theresa E. Unanue --VIRGINIA Dr. Evelyn Garcia & Michael Maurer
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Partners Circle “Members” ARIZONA Anonymous --CALIFORNIA Joanne & Geraldine Rizzuto --CONNECTICUT Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. Edward F. Goin Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey --FLORIDA Dr. Kenneth Alonso Mr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson Mrs. Liana Baldor, in memory of Ana Maria & Carlos Sr. Mr. & Mrs. Richard Caldevilla PC Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr. PC Mrs. Trudy Carey Dr. & Mrs. Antonio Castro Mr. & Mrs. Charles Corces, in memory of Charles J. Corces Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria Manny & Aggie Fernandez Mrs. Leslie Garcia PC Joseph Phillip, Jr. & Julia Jones Mr. James D. Leone Mark & Heidi Oliva PC Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds
Alina M. Roces Rudy Rodriguez Hon. & Mrs. E.J. Salcines Mrs. Joan M. Smith Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Tomaino Ron Yates --GEORGIA Mr. Charles Fantauzza Mrs. Brooke McDonald --ILLINOIS The Mills Family --INDIANA Andrea Dealynn Sandra M. Freeman --LOUISIANA Mr. & Mrs. George LeBlanc --MARYLAND Adrienne & Albert Marra --MASSACHUSETTS Ms. Josephine Petrillo --NEW JERSEY Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Amatuzzi Anonymous Tiziana Anello, M.D.
Annual gift of $550
Mary Joan Collison Larry & Mary Anne Condit Mr. & Mrs. Michael Ferrito Dr. & Mrs. Louis Gambetta PC Joann Giamonco Teresa Gutto Vivian Isenberg Mr. James Lane Laura Cosentino Mannarino George & Jeannie Pavlik Mrs. Christine Peragallo Twinkie & Michael Polizzi PC --NEW YORK Michael & Jeanette Altamura Mr. & Mrs. Jack Betwarda Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Clair Mrs. Rose Mary Clair Ms. Claire Dell Mr. Walter Lazarcheck Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec --NORTH CAROLINA Mr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard --OHIO Dale & Lynda Kovach In memory of Mr. Fred Mastrogiovanni Ginnie Sitdham
Partners Circle “Quarter Century Club” CALIFORNIA Sophia Suda Rev. Paula T. Webb --CONNECTICUT Anonymous Mrs. Eileen G. Hahnenkratt Mr. Patrick J. Waide, Jr. --FLORIDA Jon & Michelle Barry Amanda Clair Kurt & Laura Badertscher Mr. & Mrs. Edward Gomez, Jr. Amy & Kevin Jarman Mr. & Mrs. John Mangin, Jr. Joan Palmer
John & Pauline Pedrero Mr. and Mrs. Paul Schmid Mrs. Raymetta Stowers Jim & Rita (Zoppo) Vietmeier --MARYLAND Arina O. Grossu PC --NEW HAMPSHIRE Mr. & Mrs. Thomas DiMicelli --NEW JERSEY Julie Caucino Collins & Hogan Families Mr. & Mrs. Donald Cronrath Mr. & Mrs. David Hess Msgr. Raymond Kupke
Annual gift of $250
Theodore & Lynda Leo Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Nowak Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Obetz Mrs. Mary Ann Ryan Anna & Richard Spalckhaver Maura & Michael Testa Mr. Edward M. Zambrano --NEW YORK Mr. Patrick Clair Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Collison Mr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio Megan & J.T. Hunt Ms. Peggeann Larywon Mrs. Carolyn Mesler
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Brian Clair Ms. Kate Clair Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski Mrs. Eileen Seeburger --SOUTH CAROLINA Mackenzie Clair --TENNESSEE Mr. Terence P. Clair --VIRGINIA Mrs. Dominique Faust Karl Zauner --WASHINGTON Mr. Keiran C. Clair
NORTH CAROLINA Chester & Monica Michewicz --OHIO Anonymous --PENNSYLVANIA Bernadette & Fred Cairoli --SOUTH CAROLINA Elizabeth Craig & Michael Reeves, Jr. Ed & Luciann Slomkowski --TENNESSEE Robert & Kathleen Greenwell
Partners in Giving • Christmas 2021 •
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Sr. Joyce Bermejo, FMA
Art as prayer: another way to encounter God
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ociety needs artists,” Pope St. John Paul II declared in his 1999 “Letter to Artists,” elaborating the many ways in which art brings the human spirit to a place of reflection, contemplation, inspiration, and social transformation. Just ask Sr. Joyce Bermejo. A native of the Philippines, Sr. Joyce immigrated with her family to Canada when she was 10. In discussing her love of art and her journey as an artist, Sr. Joyce, who presently serves in Toronto, shared with Partners in Giving how art has helped her in her spiritual journey during the pandemic, as well as in her outreach through ministry. How has art been a part of your spiritual journey? Although I always liked to Sr. Joyce Bermejo doodle and sketch as a student, and one of her during my initial years of formapaintings of Mary tion as a Salesian Sister, art was Help of Christians. more about making something as a gift or as an image to use for a Saint’s feast day. Since the pandemic, it’s become an intentional practice that helps me be more centered and find greater peace. It’s created a space for prayer to develop through the act of making art. You share your art on Instagram (@srjoycefma). Instagram was initially about sharing what the Sisters do in Canada, since not many people are familiar with our ministry there. Once the pandemic happened, there wasn’t much to share because our ministry became more virtual, so I started sharing my art to keep the account active. People seem to connect with it. How is art a way to share the faith with others? Beauty is one of the transcendental truths, along with truth and goodness, meaning they fulfill our deepest desires. It doesn’t matter what a person’s culture is – we all long for beauty, truth, and goodness. In many parts of the world, people have turned away from objective truth and goodness due to
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 31 • Issue 6
moral relativism, which teaches truth and goodness are whatever we want it to be, instead of it finding their origin in God. However, beauty is still valued as something that goes beyond the person. Art is important because a person could be looking at one of Michelangelo’s frescoes and be deeply moved by it, because beauty is able to transport us from a material object to the spiritual reality, and bring us an experience of joy. In that way, beauty can bring us to an encounter with God. Does painting help you to pray? Art helps me to enter into a contemplative or reflective space, which can be a place of encounter with God if I invite Him into it. I gain insight into my life and the things that are happening in it, so that “fruit” tells me that my art is prayerful. Even if I am not saying “prayers” while painting, by creating art, I can be praying because I allow it to be an encounter with God. We can do this with almost anything we are passionate about. You have a lot of images of Our Lady, and there is a great diversity in your representations of her. Mary is a very easy subject because she has shown herself all over the world through different apparitions, dressed in the culture and appearance of so many different cultures. The Church is also very multicultural, so I want to depict that in my art. Even with the Saints, I want to show them how they actually were, and not as some generic version of holiness, and depict Mary through the lens of different cultures, because it allows people to see themselves as potential saints, too. It helps us to relate better to the Catholic Church and the faith, in general, when we can see ourselves reflected in the Holy Ones. Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Dear Friends: A message from Sister Joanne
The dream of making a beautiful melody
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hen I was 13 years old, I had my eye on a Morris guitar that cost $50. Back in the day, $50 was a huge amount, especially if you earned only 50 cents an hour for babysitting! My parents told me that if I wanted the guitar, I would have to save for it myself. With great determination, I began saving for my very first guitar. My parents saw my seriousness in this quest and, after three months, my Mom asked me to go downtown with her. We hopped on a bus and, to my surprise, she had me get off at the music shop stop. Upon entering the store, she told me that I could get the guitar and she and Dad would make up the difference of what I still needed. I can still feel my excitement and joy in getting to purchase my coveted guitar, with help from my parents.
piece of property in our Province, in North Haledon, NJ where Mary Help of Christians Academy now stands. When we first moved in from downtown Paterson, four Sisters and 42 orphans, we called it St. Michael Orphanage (see page 7). Upon hearing the story of this historic event, I learned that the Sisters didn’t have enough money for their purchase, either. Thanks to a generous benefactor, after 13 years in the United States, they were finally able to own their own land; not an easy achievement, but one marked by many acts of Divine Providence.
Over the years, this land has been home to many Sisters, but also to many girls who had the joy and privilege to call Mary Help their school and home. Recently, we had the blessing of our cemetery expansion for our “next door Saints” (see page 15) and are really looking forward to the day when we can bless Once we returned home, I our new St. Joseph Chapel, took the guitar out of the which every day looks more case. I remember polishing and more like its finished it with Pledge wood cleaner version (see page 4). Most and gazing at it; this was Sr. Joanne greets Pope Francis at the General House importantly, during this almost a daily ritual. I made of the Salesian Sisters in Rome in October, where he anniversary, we remember sure my younger siblings surprised the Sisters by coming to see them in person. the love and dedication of would only touch it with their The visit made international Catholic news. all the Sisters who lived the eyes. I just loved my guitar. dream of making a beautiful melody with their lives for the salvation of souls. The funny thing is, I didn’t even know how to play the guitar until the following year, when I went to As we celebrate the upcoming birth of Christ, I thank Mary Help of Christians Academy and one of the you for being part of the melody we continue to residents taught me. Since then, I have played for make in our work for the young in the Province of many special occasions with the Sisters and students St. Joseph. We couldn’t do it without you. over the years. This story of longing and determination – and a happy ending – came to my mind on November 21, a landmark day in the history of our Province. The Salesian Sisters celebrated 100 years since that day in 1921, when we purchased and moved on to our first Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
I wish you and yours a New Year filled with many graces and blessings! – Sr. Joanne Holloman, FMA, is the Superior of the Province of St. Joseph Partners in Giving • Christmas 2021 •
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Memorials
A Love That Lasts Forever
Received between October 1 and November 30, 2021
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. This gift lives forever, joining our loved ones to the prayers of the Salesian Sisters while supporting their good works. The name of your loved one will appear in our Partners in Giving magazine – a priceless gift to those you love. Give the gift that lasts forever. Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of: ____ $25
____ $20
Memorial for Tribute for
____$15
$
Name – DECEASED Name – LIVING
Occasion Please send an acknowledgement to: Name Address My Name Address
Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope. Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
Sr. Carmen Peña Mr. & Mrs. David Sweeney St. John Neumann High School St. Elizabeth Seton School Mrs. Annette Scordato Ms. F. Susan Taro Riley Hogan The Rinaldi Family Barbara C. Hedgecock Mr.& Mrs. Rory & Jane Levings Ms. Michelle Atoyebi Mr. & Mrs. Joe J. Blatt Ms. Susan B. Croghan Mrs. Diana Kelly Sarita & Mary Gibney Msgr. Joseph Ferrito Mr. & Mrs. Charles Incorvaia Mr. Joseph Seminerio Ms. Maureen Ferrito Merry Heart Assisted Living Ms. Gloria Scmazzo Lillian Brunetti Mr. Wally Brunetti “Darling Wife” Mr. James Smith Desmond Edwards Ms. Rosalie & Grace Polizzi Elizabeth Macolino Mr. & Mrs. Charles Hamade Mr. & Mrs. Joseph J. Silvestri Mr. John Gornell Mr. & Mrs. Jim Emmerson Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Tarantino Acme Supermarkets #1095 Paul Gladdys Mrs. Karolyn Gladdys
Maryann Villano Mr. & Mrs. Charles Bordonaro Virginia Massood Ms. Mary Barone Ms. Diane Palazzone Mr. & Mrs. Craig Tkaczenko Maureen Ross Ms. Cindy Kunis Ms. Carol A. Hamlin Mr. Allan D. Parish Walter Turba Ms. Rosalie & Grace Polizzi Garth Walker Mrs. Maire Walker Walter Pukszta Mrs. Barbara Pukszta
Tributes Oct. 1–Nov. 30, 2021 Sr. Domenica Di Peri Gerald Marcial & Dale Renner Ms. Josephine Savage Sr. Catherine Altamura & Sr. Susan Bagli Mr. & Mrs. Antony Scala Sr. Colleen Clair Mr. William Donner Sr. Fanny Florez Ms. Elizabeth Bogert Sr. Lillian Fox Mrs. Margaret Holback
Yvonne Higer Dr. Ralph W. Higer
Sr. Myriam Meus & Sr. Christina Chong Mr. Edward Zambrano
John Waldo Lombardi Mr. Bernard Goldband Ms. Evelyn Goutas
Sr. Ann Cassidy & Sr. Betty Ann Martinez Mrs. Jean M. Barkovitz
Joseph Garcia Mrs. Aida R. Jurado
Sr. Margaret Wilhelm Mr. Joseph McKenna, OFS
Juliette Kehoe Mr. & Mrs. Michael Guarino
Gegenworth Family Dr. & Mrs. John J. Samson
Luigi Marciante, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Marciante
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Chillura, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Melvin S. Jacobson
High on the hill above Mary Help and the St. Joseph Provincial Center
Salesian cemetery expansion is complete
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he final resting place of our beloved Salesian Sisters has undergone a much-needed expansion. Located atop the hill overlooking Mary Help of Christians Academy and the St. Joseph Provincial Center in North Haledon, NJ, the cemetery now has a second mausoleum (left) and a new columbarium (below). On an autumnal weekend in October, Fr. Frank Twardzik, SDB, blessed the new structures in the presence of the Sisters. New landscaping and benches as well as an expanded parking area make the cemetery more accessible and conducive for quiet reflection.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Christmas 2021 •
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IMMACULATA–LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, Miami, FL – The Southern Salesian Leadership Retreat, hosted by Immaculata-La Salle November 12-14, welcomed students from ILS, St. John Neumann High (Naples, FL), Academy of Our Lady and Archbishop Shaw High (Marrero, LA), and Cristo Rey (Tampa, FL). The retreat gave student leaders the chance to bond and deepen their Salesian identity. Returning to their schools, they will help animate initiatives to keep the Salesian spirit alive on their campuses. The retreat was guided by Sr. Katie Flanagan, Br. Thomas Junis, Sr. April Hoffman, Fr. John Langan, Fr. Louis Molinelli, Sr. April Cabacang, and Fr. Eduardo Chincha. ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, Marrero, LA – Laudato Si (“Praise Be to You”) is Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical letter on the enviroment, promoting sustainability in different forms. Sr. Janna San Juan’s Environmental Science class planted a vegetable garden as a Laudato Si project. The class worked together to weed the dirt, till the soil, and lay down a mesh tarp before planting cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, beetroots, scallions, carrots, and assorted greens. Every other morning, Sr. Janna waters the plants and, every other class, students go and check on the garden’s progress.
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 31 • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
SALESIAN SCHOOLS !
Supporting Villa Madonna School and the Salesian Youth Center
A chance to give thanks, for a great cause
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hy, you may ask, have another virtual Thanksgiving Basket fundraiser when the in-person one with a sit-down dinner by Richard Gonzmart and Columbia Restaurant is always so delicious, and the vast array of baskets and items on auction are always sure to please? Well, conditions outside of our control meant we had to organize a second virtual event on November 18. It was the 18th Annual Thanksgiving Basket, and we had the opportunity – long overdue! – to thank Leslie J. Izquierdo Garcia for all of her dedication and hard work for the Salesian Sisters and their mission. Nelson Russo, our emcee, began by getting “lost” in the construction zone for the Pavilion and Renovation Project, when Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza, principal of Villa Madonna School, showed up in a golf cart to “rescue” him. After a prayer by Rick Fee, the Salesian Youth Center (SYC) board chairman, there were testimonials about Leslie, along with a video of SYC kids signing “I love you” in thanksgiving of her volunteered time teaching sign language to the kids. With 71 donated baskets giving everyone a chance to bid and win, there were many guests tuning in and raising funds for SYC and the Villa Madonna campus. Thanks to our sponsors and everyone involved, we raised more than $100,000 for Tampa’s children!
We look forward to seeing you all in person (please God!) next year! – Theresa Anderson Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
As soon as we announced Leslie Garcia as our honoree, there was one comment that was repeated over and over: “It’s well deserved and long overdue!” We couldn’t agree more!
Above, among the many viewing parties of our virtual event was this one hosted by hosted by Rick Caldevilla at his Caldeco Air Conditioning & Heating office. At left, our outstanding emcee, Nelson Russo! Partners in Giving • Christmas 2021 •
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SALESIAN SCHOOLS !
ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, Marrero, LA – Congratulations to the new inductees of the Golden Torch Society, created by the Guidance Department to honor academic achievements on the ACT standardized test. High scorers were treated to a Chick-fil-A breakfast during Spirit Week, and allowed to dress up as something that starts with the first letter of their first name.
IMMACULATA–LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, Miami, FL – “This is Our Story: Operación Pedro Pan and ImmaculataLa Salle” is a documentary made by ILS senior Josephine Novo (right) about a secret plan of the U.S. government and the Catholic Church to help children escape from Cuba at the start of Fidel Castro’s Communist regime. Josephine profiles six former children of the Pedro Pan operation, who convey their harrowing journey to America and years spent alone without their parents, living in camps set up by the Church. The documentary is posted now on YouTube: bit.ly/pedropandoc. “The Cubans who arrived in the U.S. at the beginning of Castro’s regime had their entire lives taken from them, and had to rebuild their lives in what was essentially alien territory,” notes Josephine, whose father and grandfather escaped from Cuba. “They had no family, no money, no translators or multilingual signs as we see around Miami today. They not only rebuilt their lives, but built Miami, one of America’s most iconic cities. “What inspired me to make this documentary was a sense of pride and duty,” Josephine adds. “I have always wanted to uplift my community and tell our story how it truly is, and as much in its entirety as possible. God blessed me with the opportunity to do so.” Brava, Josephine!
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 31 • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Salesian School Alumni Spotlight
“I strive to be a beacon of light to others”
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t’s not unusual for alumni of Salesian Schools to return one day as teachers or administrators. One example is Katie Church, a 2014 graduate of Mary Help of Christians Academy who teaches theology. We invited her to share the story of her journey from student to Salesian Lay Missionary, and, now, teacher.
Tell us about your time as a student at Mary Help. On graduating, I had no regrets leaving the gates of Mary Help. Mary Help provided everything I could have ever needed and wanted as a student. It showed me how to build an authentic relationship with Jesus and be a supportive teammate. It allowed me to encounter inspiring teachers and see true Salesian joy every day. Now I strive to be that same beacon of light the Sisters, teachers, and my classmates were for me.
How did you wind up working at Mary Help? When I was discerning if I was going to continue my year of mission work, I knew I wanted to continue, but wanted to move locations. I wanted the Lord to decide wherever He was calling me. That is how I ended up at Mary Help. The Lord had a plan for me; there was a reason for me to be here. Does being an alumna make you a better teacher? I think back to all the memories, traditions, and conversations I had, and knowing how life-changing they were for me, I want to share that with the students. Being a witness to the faith, sharing in the sisterhood of the school, and being a positive role model, motivates me every day and brings so much joy to my day.
What advice would you When did you embark offer to young people? on mission work? My advice would be Mission work has to listen to the voice in been a special part of your head and heart that Katie Church, serving as a Salesian Lay Missionary and my life. My first mission is guiding you. Whether English teacher, poses with students in Cambodia in 2019. experience was attending it may be telling you the 2012 Gospel Roads in Tampa, a service retreat for which college to go to, or what to say in your group of Salesian high school students. My heart was set on fire friends, don’t push it away. Allow yourself to listen and I wanted to follow the Lord’s call to serve in any and then act. way I could. I then went on a few short-term mission Follow the good things in life, and be an example. trips while studying evangelization and catechesis at Sometimes you may feel alone for standing out in Benedictine College. I also went to Haiti, Peru, and your faith, but know that you are making a difference Nicaragua with the Salesian Young Adult Ministry when you are being the example and acting as Jesus Office’s summer mission trips. I could see the face of would. Christ in everyone I encountered, and being Christ to them brought me so much joy. What is your favorite inspirational Scripture quote? After college, I started working at a daycare. One “Do not conform yourselves to this age, but be day, during the children’s nap time, I felt God’s call transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you saying to me, “Go!” This job was not worth ignoring may discern what is the will of God, what is good and God’s call, so I looked into mission organizations pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2). and found the Salesian Lay Missioners program and This has always been my favorite Bible verse applied right away. Soon I was off to Cambodia. I since high school. It has always motivated me to not spent a year there teaching English at the Food and conform to society and to follow the Lord with all Technology Vocational School. my heart. Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Christmas 2021 •
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SALESIAN SCHOOLS ! ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL, Hawthorne, NJ – A “Bible Entrustment Ceremony” was held for students in grades 6-8 to instill in them a love of Sacred Scripture. Sr. Mary Jackson, principal (below), was present to hand out the Bibles to each student.
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, North Haledon, NJ – The school Sports Council organized a campus-wide “Color Run” to support sports programs. As students, coaches, friends, and family ran or walked a path that circled the entire campus, spotters threw colored powder on them! A fun time was had by all.
VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, Tampa, FL – This year’s Veterans Day celebration featured moving testimonials on serving our country from mothers and fathers in uniform. In the foreground, Andrea Dadisman and her kids Natalie (1st grade) and Jack (4th grade) enjoyed a video talk by their Dad, Lt. Col. Zachary Dadisman. In the rear, the Moore kids, Bernie (5th grade), Shannon (8th grade), and Bridget (class of 2021), gathered with their Mom, Megan, and their Dad, Lt. Col. Craig Moore, who made a speech.
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 31 • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
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n September the St. Joseph Province sponsored the first-ever virtual International Youth Summit in English that included youth and Salesian Sister delegates from the U.S., Canada, Great Britain, and South Africa. The idea for the gathering came from Sr. Kim Keraitis, who wanted to bring young people together to prepare the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the Salesian Sisters in 2022. Held via Zoom, the event included greetings from the Mother General, Provincials of participating provinces, and Sr. Runita, youth ministry coordinator of the Salesian Sisters; group prayer; breakout sessions; and time to reflect on how the Salesian charism unites their different realities. “We had 130 people registered, and over 100 participated,” reports Sr. Katie Flanagan, organizer. The event took place in an atmosphere of Salesian joy and collaboration, giving young people a sense of being part of the Salesian Family, connected to a charism of holiness and happiness that encompasses the entire world. CORPUS CHRISTI HOLY ROSARY PARISH, Port Chester, NY – Sr. Elfie Del Rosario and Sr. Boram Lee journeyed across the state border to Stamford, CT, to attend “Faith on Tap”with young adults at the Hibernian Hall, hosted by Fr. John Connaughton. The guest speaker was Republican State Senator Ryan Fazio, who shared about the role of his faith in public office. “When asked how best to evangelize in the public sphere, Senator Fazio said that one’s own good example is often more effective than one’s words,” Sr. Elfie says. “He added that young people should cultivate the virtue of honesty.” Excellent advice!
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Christmas 2021 •
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Please “Give Us This Day”!
An exchange of love
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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 mark a less-than-happy occasion? Our prayer for 30 days will commemorate this event in your life. Have you someone to thank? All of us will help multiply this gratitude to that special person. Is there a special person or event to bring to the attention of your friends? Then please “Give Us This Day”! Any event, person, or situation that merits special attention will be publicized on a bulletin board outside our chapel. The Sisters will pray for that intention and for the person who requests prayers for the day. Let this exchange of time be an example of our concern and love for one another. Enjoy the Christmas Season knowing that you are special to us. Our prayers rise daily for you and your dear ones. Thank you, and God bless you!
Give Us This
Day
Mary Jean Hayek was a math student of Sr. Fanny Flores in 1963 at Mary Help of Christians Academy. She brought her brother Joseph and a cake to the Provincial House to celebrate Sr. Fanny’s 90th birthday in November!
Please give us this day/these days in 2022 in honor of my special request(s):
Please detach and mail this form in the enclosed envelope. Thank you!
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 31 • Issue 6
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
On the Journey with Sister B
When life gives you a Lemon Donut, make...
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admit, getting to meet up with some good Salesian priest friends while I was in Chicago this late summer was already exciting enough. We were going to visit a well-known donut place and taste test their top gourmet creations, thus only consuming two total donuts each, but getting to try a sample of many. We were strategic and went about our method scientifically, prepping by eating protein and drinking fluids to prepare our organs for the ensuing sugar overload, but nothing quite prepared me for the Lemon Donut. I capitalize and italicize it, because that’s what it felt like eating it: an emphatic statement. It smelled like Fabuloso floor cleaner and had the aftertaste of a stale Lemonhead candy box from Halloween past. One Salesian insisted it was his favorite; to this day I am concerned about him.
should have read near it, as posing before the Tower of Niles guaranteed at least 100 cars passing you on the busy road as you angled yourself for the perfect “holding up the tower” photo. We had a great time. I felt like an idiot; I am sure the donuts were to blame.
Being good Catholics and good Salesians, we paused for a moment at the base of the Leaning Tower of Niles and said a quick prayer to the Blessed Mother, whose relief holding the Child Jesus was set over a door that led inside. Unfortunately, the door was locked, but that didn’t stop us from taking the absurd touristy photos one typically takes in Pisa at the original tower. “Abandon all pride, ye who pose at this sight!” a sign
I wish you a very happy Advent, full of beautiful surprises, and if someone offers you a Fabuloso Lemon Donut, I recommend opting for the Elvis one instead. Merry Christmas!
Later that day I spent some time on the shores of Lake Michigan, one of my favorite places, as the beaches are more rocky than sandy and the native prairie blends into the coastal areas. With the Lemon Donut sugar-rush having passed, I was clearer-headed about the day and laughed, realizing how often God surprises me like with the Leaning Tower of Niles. He often shows up in unexpected ways and places and rarely according to my idea of how He should.
God loves to surprise us with the unexpected – and this Advent and Christmas, we get a very real example God loves to of that through the lives of Mary After consuming our donuts and ranking them according to preference surprise us with the and Joseph. Their stories were full of surprises, from miracles instilling (we all agreed that the strangely unexpected – like awe, to unexpected sufferings that concocted “Elvis” donut, which included bananas, peanut butter, found in Niles, IL. yielded great blessings, but throughout everything, they both clung to God and bacon was actually delicious), and let Him lead the way. We may we needed to get some exercise. I suggested that we take a trip to the Leaning Tower of not always know what God has planned, whether it be a Lemon Donut moment or a Leaning Tower of Niles, IL. Yes, you read that correctly: Niles, home to a half-scale replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. Niles experience, but we do know He will be with us, and that, my friends, is what will help us to reach our American kitsch at its finest. Was it weird? Yes. Is that why we went? Yes. ultimate goal: holiness and wholeness.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
– Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA, is the Social Media Coordinator for the Province and Editorial Manager of Partners in Giving. Partners in Giving • Christmas 2021 •
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Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Province of St. Joseph of the Eastern U.S. & Canada Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397
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his year’s Thanksgiving Basket virtual fundraiser (see page 17) featured a very special auction item: dinner at Oak & Ola in Tampa, FL, with “Dinner Impossible” and “Restaurant Impossible” Chef Robert Irvine! Donated by Rick Fee, chairman of the board of the Salesian Youth Center, the dinner was won by Diana Ekonomou, who graciously gifted it to the Salesian Sisters at Villa Madonna School. Seated around the table after a fabulous dinner are: Sr. Marie Fe Tansioco, Sr. Mary Louise Mazzocco, Sr. Janet Keller, Rick Fee, Ari Rodriguez, Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza, Chef Robert, and Sr. Anne Weis. Chef Robert autographed one of his cookbooks (left) and later praised the Sisters on his Twitter account, which has over 400,000 followers! Truly an evening to remember! Thank you, Rick, Diana, and Chef Robert!