Development Office of the Salesian Sisters, Daughters of Mary Help of Christians • www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in GivinG
Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s Letter
Save These Dates! Friday, March 2
Adopt a Sister Luncheon
Dear Friends:
Information & Tickets: (813) 205-3195
It’s a New Year! And throughout our Province of Saint Joseph, from Canada to Florida, there’s a reinvigorated spirit among the Salesian Sisters, fresh from a three-day meeting called a “Verifica.” It was a special time for reflection and renewed commitment to our mission, with opportunities for fellowship and fun, as you’ll see on pages 3-5. On our cover, Sr. Elfie Del Rosario has fun taking her signature “Selfie with Sr. Elfie” for a group of Sisters and friends.
Sunday, April 8
Our Sisters in Concert! Information: (973) 790-6202 Sunday, April 15
Salesian Sisters’ Spring Party
Some news to report:
Information & Tickets: (973) 904-0102
• Your annual gifts to the Adopt-a-Sister program are always a source of gratitude and joy. We share letters from grateful Adopters on page 6. Your benefits are “out of this world” as the Sisters offer prayerful thanks to God for you. Please join us!
Saturday, April 21
Fr. Peter Rinaldi Awards Dinner
• As our Partners Circle begins its annual membership drive (please join us!), we welcome 10 new inductees into the Partners Circle Hall of Fame. These individuals (and one foundation) are rightly recognized for their loyalty and commitment to the Sisters and their mission. We are truly blessed!
Information & tickets: (914) 937-4407 Thursday, May 10
Dames of Mary Help “Sip & Shop”
Peace,
Watch for details!
PARTNERS IN GIVING
Editorial Board Dr. Joe McAleer, Editor Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of Development Elsie DeJesus, Production Manager Theresa G. Anderson, Copy Editor
is a bimonthly magazine published by the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397
Federal Tax ID # 22-6043753 © 2018 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc.
Telephone: (973) 904-0102 Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS E-mail: fmadevt@aol.com
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.
Website: www.salesiansisters.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/ salesiansistersdevelopment
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Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
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Making Headlines Around the Province
Sisters, Assemble!
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Say “Salesian!” The Sisters of the Province of St. Joseph gathered for a group photo during the three-day Verifica Assembly at Mary Help of Christians Academy, which included conferences in the lecture hall (below).
ver three days in January, the Salesian Sisters of the Province of Saint Joseph gathered at Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ, for a meeting called “Verifica.” Sisters from Canada to Florida, along with invited lay persons, evaluated the goals set three years prior at the General Chapter assembly in Rome, sharing their dreams for the Province and the good that is already being done. Along with presentations and lectures (at right), the Sisters also took time for some fun and fellowship, as seen on the following pages. Our mission continues!
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Winter 2018 •
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Above, the Provincial Superior, Sr. Joanne Holloman, opened the “Verifica” gathering. At right, Sr. Theresa Kelly is deep in thought as she reflects on the day’s work. Right, Sr. Katie Flanagan, 2nd year Novice Sr. Molly Heine, Sr. April Hoffman, and Sr. Lillian Foxx enjoyed each other’s company. Below, Sr. Liz Ryan, Sr. Isabel Garza, Sr. Carmen Peña, and Sr. Betty Ann Martinez share a story and a laugh.
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Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
Right, Sr. Theresa Samson and Aspirant Rose Wingard lead the readings at Mass. Left, Sr. Hae-Jim Lim, 2nd year Novice Sr. Joyce Bermejo, and Sr. April Cabaccang pause before the statue of Mary Help of Christians.
Right, Postulant Janna San Juan, 1st year Novice Sr. Boram Lee, and Mary Help student Grace Lobascio were the first ones on the dance floor!
Time to boogie! Sr. Pat Roche, Sr. Suzanne Dauwalter, Sr. Elfie Del Rosario, Sr. Mary Jackson, and 1st year Novice Sr. Marie Fe Tansioco.
S
r. Mary Winterschiedt was stationed at Saints Peter and Paul Parish during the ‘60s and ‘70s. She taught at least one (I think both) of my sisters in sixth grade. I am the youngest, separated by 11 years from my closest sibling, so by the time I got to sixth grade, Sr. Mary had been transferred. My interaction with her, however, during third, fourth, and possibly fifth grade was wonderful. Sr. Mary was in charge of the altar boys. Sr. Anita Ferrari saw me at Mass early before school each day and petitioned Sr. Mary to let me become an altar boy a year early (in third grade). Knowing Sr. Anita, she probably just told her to do it. Sr. Mary taught me how to serve Mass. This morning, I served, at the same church and on the same altar, and did my best to perform my duties just as Sr. Mary had taught me.
From
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M
Our
bo ail
x
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lease accept this expression of thanks to Sr. Isabel Garza. She has been such a faithful friend and adopted Sister! I know she prays every day for my intentions and I really appreciate it so much. Patricia Lang Mahwah, NJ
y sister Rosemarie and I think of you and the many Sisters you have at Mary Help of Christians Academy so many times. What a blessing to have Sisters. I always thought three was enough, but 3x3x3 will never be enough! The “friendship” of a Sister is priceless. May God bless you, our Sisters. Glorida & Rosemarie Favara Wyckoff, NJ
O
ver 22 years ago, I asked our Lord and His Mother to guide me in an unknown and frightful journey – cancer. They did, and I found the Salesian Sisters. May Our Lord guide each of us every day until, hopefully, He invites us to join
May God grant Sr. Mary eternal peace, and may His Face continue to shine on the good Sisters that continue to do so much good for many young people around the world, and where I am right now. Frank & Terri Lavin San Rafael, CA
W
e too have lost a family member with the death of Sr. Mary Winterscheidt. We will forever hold on to the joy of having attended her 60th and 70th Jubilees. My family and I have been blessed beyond belief by Sr. Mary’s addition! I will forever feel her presence in my and my family’s life. Donna JoRay Roeland Park, KS
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r. Mary Winterscheidt has been a special part of my life for so many years, comforting and inspiring me. God had truly blessed her with the gift of reaching out to others with her kindness. Please know that I will never stop thinking of Sr. Mary and praying to her. Shirley Salem Ligonier, PA
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A quartet of happy Adopters enjoyed the annual Christmas Party! From left, Theresa Anderson (who has adopted Sr. Karen Dunn and Sr. Elfie Del Rosario), Louis and Mary Judith Gambetta (Sr. Kim Keraitis); and Leslie Garcia (Sr. Colleen Clair and Sr. Mary Rinaldi). Won’t you please join them as Adopters?
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e are happy to continue our commitment to the Adopt a Sister Program. It is part of our ongoing relationship with the Salesian Sisters which began in 1948 when I, Ed, entered Kindergarten at Holy Rosary School in Port Chester, NY. We have such gratitude for the Sisters. What would we ever do without you? Edward Legutko & Harry Kropp State College, PA
Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
Him. Thank you for your enduring friendship. Maryanne Coulson Upper Darby, PA Thank you for your letters! We love to hear from you! Please write to us c/o Sr. Mary Rinaldi, 659 Belmont Ave., North Haledon, NJ 07508, or e-mail sr.mary@ salesiansisters.org, or visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ salesiansistersdevelopment.
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
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lease 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, Baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation – any occasion! Please complete the form below, or visit us online at www.salesiansisters.org, or call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you, and God bless you!
Sr. Rosemary Cordes visits with her brother Chris and sister-in-law Mary of Malone, NY.
CVV: _____________
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Winter 2018 •
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Our Newest Hall of Fame Inductees!
C
ongratulations to the newest members of the Salesian Sisters Partners Circle Hall of Fame, established in memory of the late founder, Joseph J. McAleer, Sr., to recognize individuals or couples for their leadership and commitment to the mission of the Partners Circle: “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.”
Dr. Idalia Lastra
Scarsdale, NY
Teresa Gutto
Allendale, NJ
Miami, FL
Partners Circle members since 1994.
Partners Circle member since 1994.
Partners Circle member since 1995.
Sister Karen Dunn, FMA
Sister Carmen PeñA, FMA
Newton, NJ
Naples, FL
As Provincial Superior of the Salesian Sisters from 2011-2017, Sr. Karen worked closely with the Partners Circle Board.
Sr. Carmen was the first treasurer of the Partners Circle when it was founded in 1991, offering invaluable advice.
Barbara & Jim Major
Janice & Stephen Papetti
Christine Peragallo
Partners Circle members since 2004.
Partners Circle members since 1995.
Partners Circle member since 1992.
Laurie & Tom Aldinger
Beruta & James Dell’Orto
Partners Circle members since 1995.
Green Pond, SC
Lowry Murphey Family Foundation Tampa, FL In memory of Ann Lowry Murphey (d. 2005).
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Tampa, FL
Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
Holmdel, NJ
Paterson, NJ
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
new or upgraded Partners Circle Members so far in 2018! Shown in RED
There are nine levels of membership, starting at $250, and are listed on these three pages. Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group in 2018, our 27th year? Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you!
Joseph J. McAleer, Sr., Heritage Society Major Bequests California Richard Meissner, Meissner Manufacturing
Florida Dorothy & Dr. Vincent Bagli Josie & Ray Campo Anne & Joseph Garcia PC Mrs. Ann Lowry Murphey Angel Oliva Family The Dorothy Thomas Foundation
Partners Circle “Stewards” Annual gift of $11,000
Indiana Mrs. Beatrice Lightfoot
New Jersey
Florida Texas Mrs. Betty Turner
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
PC = denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees
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 PC Mrs. Beverly Rohde Mr. & Mrs. James Millar
New York Mrs. Pearl Kalikow
New Jersey Mr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis In memory of Mr. & Mrs. C.H. Church, Jr. Joanne & Al Daloisio Mr. & Mrs. Robert Harkins PC Mr. Bill McLaughlin PC
Christopher & Corinne Schiavo & The Shepherd and the Knucklehead Pub Joseph & Rita Weiner
Welcome New 2018 Members in RED!
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Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle
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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 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.
Welcome
New York Mr. John Cassara Beruta & James Dell’Orto
Partners in Giving • Winter 2018 •
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Welcome New 2018 Members in RED!
Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle 10 •
Partners Circle “Friends” Annual gift of $3,300 Connecticut
New Jersey
Mary Bridget Gaine
Mario & Arline Monaco
Florida
Pennsylvania
Dr. Idalia Lastra
Christopher & Gemma Chong Mr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow
Partners Circle “Founders” Connecticut
Massachusetts
New York
New Jersey
Jordon Carroll Mr. Ian H. Graham Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala
Mr. Michael Guarnieri PC Christina & David McAleer PC
Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair PC
Florida
Marilyn & Dale Livi Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Massood Mr. & Mrs. Michael Massood Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Papetti Rose Perone Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer PC Maria Sturchio
Mr. & Mrs. Cooper Carlisle John & Pat Connors Anthony & Diana Ekonomou Lowry Murphey Family Foundation Mrs. Kathleen Medore Mr. & Mrs. Mark Oliva PC Mr. Fredy Padovan
Annual gift of $2,200
Pennsylvania In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA
South Carolina Mr. & Mrs. Tom Aldinger
Partners Circle “Benefactors” Annual gift of $1,100 Arizona California
Georgia
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Obenberger
Mr. Robert Reiter
Connecticut
Linda & Peter Christiansen PC Dr. Joseph McAleer PC Mr. & Mrs. Salvatore Zichichi
Mr. & Mrs. Neil Holmes
Florida
Ms. Marianne O’Doherty
Joseph & Claudine Caballero PC Terrell & Joe Clark Dr. Andrea & Sean Farrier PC Mrs. Aida Jurado Mr. & Mrs. Jim Major Dr. Patricia Mergo Mr. & Mrs. Frank Middendorf Robert Nocek & Ann Bryk Lydia & John Oliva
Michael & Mary Losurdo Mrs. Maureen O’Halloran A.J. & Mindy Papetti Robert & Constance Sumas Mrs. Carolyn Young
Gene & Linda Perez Mr. Charles B. Schmalz Mr. Nick Suszynski PC
Mrs. Ann Marie Forster
New York
Massachusetts
Ms. Lea Battiato Anthony & Geraldine Dell’Orto John W. Lombardi & Family The Sabatine Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Silveri
Missouri New Jersey
North Carolina
Ms. Debi F. Debiak Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Della Cerra Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann James Construction Co., Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Anthony M. Laino Mr. James Lane
Chester & Monica Michewicz
Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
Pennsylvania Mr. & Mrs. Bob Danch Allyson & Kevin Hardy
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
The Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle provides Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life.
Florida
Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria PC Declan & Paula Mansfield Anne & Fred Michaels Rene & Phyllis Rodriguez Mr. & Mrs. Terry Wood
New Jersey Mrs. Theresa Unanue
South Carolina Sandra M. Freeman
Partners Circle “Members” Arizona Anonymous
California Joanne & Geraldine Rizzuto
Connecticut Mr. & Mrs. Edward Goin Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey Anonymous
Florida Dr. Kenneth Alonso Mr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, in memory of Ana Maria Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr. PC Mrs. Trudy Carey Dr. & Mrs. Antonio Castro Mrs. Leslie Garcia PC Mr. & Mrs. Luis Garcia PC Dr. Giacomo & Mrs. Judy Guggino Mr. & Mrs. Rob Obbink Ms. Maria Restrepo-Forte Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds Alina M. Roces PC = denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees
Rudy Rodriguez Hon. & Mrs. E.J. Salcines PC Mr. & Mrs. David Smith Ms. Maria C. Torreiro Ron & Mary Jo Yates
Georgia Mr. & Mrs. Charles Fantauzza
Illinois
Annual gift of $550 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
The Mills Family Adelaide Olivieri
Mr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard
Louisiana
Mr. & Mrs. Dale Kovach Dr. & Mrs. George H. McAfee
Mr. & Mrs. George LeBlanc
Massachusetts Ms. Josephine Petrillo Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading
New Jersey Tiziana Anello, M.D. Larry & Mary Anne Condit Ms. Anita Cronk John J. Eccleston Mr. & Mrs. Michael G. Ferrito Dr. & Mrs. Louis Gambetta PC Joann Giamonco Teresa Gutto Laura Cosentino Mannarino Ms. Antonia P. Meola Dr. Kerry R. McMahon Mrs. Diva Muller Mrs. Christine Peragallo E.N. Sarantis
Welcome New 2018 Members in RED!
Annual gift of $825
OUR MISSION
Ohio
Pennsylvania Mr. & Mrs. Brian Clair Ms. Kate Clair Mr. & Mrs. Jack Hedgecock Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski
South Carolina Mr. & Mrs. John Bedlek
Tennessee Mr. Terence P. Clair
Virginia Mrs. Dominique Faust Dr. Evelyn Garcia & Michael Maurer Karl & Laura Zauner
Washington Mr. Keiran C. Clair
Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle
Partners Circle “Associates”
Welcome New 2018 Members in RED!
Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle
Partners Circle “Quarter Century Club” Annual gift of $250 California Mr. Richard Suda Rev. Paula T. Webb
Connecticut John R. Glover Mrs. Eileen G. Hahnenkratt Mr. Patrick J. Waide, Jr. Anonymous
Florida Mr. & Mrs. Jon Barry Kurt & Laura Badertscher Mr. & Mrs. Fred A. Cairoli Mr. & Mrs. Manuel Fernandez Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Fierman Mr. & Mrs. Edward Gomez, Jr. Mrs. Elsa Gutierrez-Janulonis Amy & Kevin Jarman Mr. & Mrs. John Mangin, Jr. John H. & Pauline Pedrero Mr. and Mrs. Paul Schmid
New York
Mr. & Mrs. Richard Stowers Jim & Rita (Zoppo) Vietmeier
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Collison Mr. & Mrs. Charles V. Curcio Megan & J.T. Hunt Ms. Peggeann Larywon Mrs. Carolyn Mesler
Indiana Andrea Dealynn
New Hampshire
Ohio
Mr. & Mrs. Thomas DiMicelli
Anonymous
New Jersey Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Amatuzzi Collins & Hogan Families Mr. & Mrs. David Hess Theodore & Lynda Leo Ms. Mary Bernadette Mazauskas Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Nowak Gregory & Stephanie Monaco Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Obetz Mrs. Mary Ann Ryan Anna & Richard Spalckhaver Mr. & Mrs. Michael Testa Karla T. Villarin Mr. Edward M. Zambrano
Pennsylvania Mrs. Judith Falcone Lichty Mrs. Eileen Seeburger
South Carolina Elizabeth Craig & Michael Reeves, Jr.
Tennessee Mr. & Mrs. Robert Greenwell
Fasting and Feasting Fast from judging others; feast on the Christ dwelling within them. Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of all life. Fast from apparent darkness; feast on the reality of light. Fast from words that pollute; feast on phrases that purify. Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude. • Fast from anger; feast on patience. Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism. • Fast from worry; feast on trust. Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation. Fast from negatives; feast on affirmatives. Fast from unrelenting pressures; feast on unceasing prayer. Fast from hostility; feast on nonviolence. • Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness. Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others. Fast from personal anxiety; feast on eternal truth. Fast from discouragement; feast on hope. Fast from facts that depress; feast on truths that uplift. Fast from lethargy; feast on enthusiasm. • Fast from suspicion; feast on truth. Fast from thoughts that weaken; feast on promises that inspire. Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence. How do you feel called to fast this Lent? How can you feast with your fast?
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Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
How Sweet It Is Sr. Joanne Holloman’s Letter
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his year brought with it a rather amusing coincidence: Ash Wednesday, a day of fasting and abstinence, coincided with St. Valentine’s Day. Nothing quite puts the damper on romance like ashes on your face and being hungry. When I was working with children in school, and these two holy days collided, I noticed that the children would be bummed out because they wanted to bring their “sweet” treats to school and give Valentines to their friends and teachers. As an educator, I was happy to see the students’ childlike simplicity in showing affection with cards and cake, but I was always challenged with how to creatively get rid of their boxes of heart-shaped chocolates as I began the season of Lent. With time, I’ve realized that Ash Wednesday and St. Valentine’s Day are synonyms not antonyms. The theme of both of these days is the same: LOVE. To be someone’s Valentine is usually a declaration that you have captured your beloved’s heart. The simple gestures we use to show love on St. Valentine’s Day, similar to Christmas gift giving, bring as much joy to the giver as to the receiver. During Lent, we are invited to journey on the way to Calvary with Jesus, the journey that is His greatest statement of love for us. From the cross, He opens His Heart and arms to us and declares, “You, My beloved, have captured
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My Heart.” However, it is not enough to simply listen to Him say this, for love always requires a response, and it is through our Lenten sacrifices and penance that we make the same statement in reply, “Jesus, You have captured my heart”.
“With time, I’ve realized that Ash Wednesday and St. Valentine’s Day are synonyms, not antonyms. The theme of both of these days is the same: LOVE.” Love is not a static reality, but is felt within and born in the reality of concrete gestures. The Church invites us to express this love in three ways: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Here are a few ideas for each: Prayer. Pray the Rosary, meditate on Scripture, read spiritual books, attend daily Mass, or just spend 10 extra minutes of quite time thinking of God’s love. Perhaps begin to pray with your family members
and spouse; praying with another person is a great act of trust and intimacy. Fasting. Although we equate fasting with doing without food and drink, perhaps we can “fast” from our judgments of others or our own self-condemnation. The poem “Fasting and Feasting” on the opposite page offers more great ideas. Almsgiving. When hearing about “almsgiving” our thoughts may turn toward giving donations or participating in the Catholic Relief Services program, “Operation Rice Bowl.” These are good practice, but perhaps giving of our time to someone in need is a greater form of giving for us. At times, sharing our talents at our local parish, or with a family member or a friend in need, can be a way of giving alms. Alms are not simply gifts of money, but, more importantly, gifts of self. During this Lenten Season, no matter what sacrifices and acts of penance we choose, may our gestures of love for Christ come from our heart. Amidst the candy wrappers of St. Valentine’s Day, and the ashen crosses from Ash Wednesday, we can find and be signs of God’s love, beginning with those closest to us. How sweet it is to share our love with our family and friends, knowing that it reflects our love for Jesus, who loves us so much.
Partners in Giving • Winter 2018 •
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Memorials
A Love That Lasts Forever
Received between November 30, 2017 and January 31, 2018 Prince Michal Jan Henryk Giedroyc´ Dr. Joe McAleer
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
____$15
$
Memorial for Tribute for
Name – DECEASED Name – LIVING
Angela Conforti Crane Mrs. Marilyn Bonfiglio Joseph Bonfiglio Mrs. Marilyn Bonfiglio Constance Little Mr. & Mrs. Albert Conforti
Maryann Lucania Mr. & Mrs. Armand J. Lucania Dr. Paul Cannon Mr. Joseph Lucania Mr. & Mrs. Robert L. Bertani Mr. & Mrs. Peter Murray Ms. Helen Donovan Jim Smith Mr. & Mrs. Manuel Fernandez Rubicenda Reyers Ms. Joan Gourin Camille D’Amato Kornutick Sr. Francis Carberry Ms. Carol Kasper Mr. John Dadah Frank Sickinger Louis R. Agresto Mr. & Mrs. William Slavick, Jr. Mrs. Marie Agresto Mrs. Janice Killen Mrs. Kathleen A. Dubbels Paul Junior Mistretta Mr. Anthony Zimmerman Mr. & Mrs. Jack Stone Mrs. Andrea Zimmerman Ms. Joan Gourin Florence O’Donnell Ms. Carol Kasper Lillian Brunetti Mr. & Mrs. Frank Di Piazza
Occasion
Edna F. Loose Ms. Sandra Loose
Please send an acknowledgement to: Name Address My Name Address
Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
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Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
Sr. Mary Winterscheidt, FMA Mr. & Mrs. Raymond P. Marsolek, Jr. Ms. Mary Bridget Gaine Mrs. Shirley Salem Mrs. Marilyn Gorham Mr. & Mrs. Garth Walker Mrs. Marie Agresto Frank and Teresa Lavin Ms. Jane MacNeil Mrs. Jeanette J. Lacovara
Mary Ceconi Mr. & Mrs. Frank G. Locante Mr. & Mrs. James E. Schade Mrs. Catherine Foresman Mr. & Mrs. Alan Blomgren Mrs. Jane Johnston Mr. Roger Bauer Ms. Janet W. Iagnemmo Patricia Marrell Ms. Elizabeth Melissinos Ms. Josephine Pett Ms. Kathleen Blystone Mr. Frank Sherrill Paul Junior Mistretta Mr. & Mrs. Jack Stone
Tributes Charnan Kenst Mrs. Caroline Kubale Smith Sr. Agatha Cosentino, FMA Ms. Ednamay Fasano Sr. Frances Gumino, FMA Ms. Mary Carole Schafenberg Virginia Jones Ms. Louise Jones Jankovic
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
On the Journey with Sister B
The Warm Light of Lent
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nsurprisingly, most people do not anticipate Lent the same way they do Advent. It’s a liturgical season that lacks the sparkling decorations, gift wrapping, and memorable hymns that we find in December. During Lent, we are encouraged to practice prayer, fasting, and almsgiving; quite the antidote to the chaotic schedules, abundant cookies, and shopping sprees leading up to Christmas.
the Easter candle, the people in the church pass that light to each other, filling the church with the warmth of kindled and shared candlelight. Each Easter Vigil, as I gaze around the people in the church, alight with the golden glow of the Easter flame, I feel an incredible sense of hope and joy, for it’s a visible symbol of the transformation from darkness into light, despair into hope, grief into comfort, that Christ does for each of us in our lives, if we only allow Him.
At times, I feel like Lent is the equivalent of slamming on the breaks in my spiritual life. The church décor becomes more somber, the Mass readings speak of deserts and sacrifice, and every Friday brings with it my least favorite food: fish. Oddly enough, what has helped me to appreciate the rhythm of the Church year, that includes the arid Lent, is my experience of grief. A few years ago, my mother’s sudden death from cancer rocked me. I passed from the “Ordinary Time” of taking my mother’s presence for granted, to entering a painful “Lent” of absence, sacrifice, suffering, and what felt like an unending Good Friday. Never had a liturgical season better identified how I felt as the first Lent after her death. Throughout the Lenten daily Mass readings are woven all the human emotions connected to grief and sorrow, as well as rebellion, fear, and hope. Holy Week plays out the great drama of redemption, reminding us that no matter what suffering we endure or struggle we face, the love of God can overcome even the power of death and grief itself.
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“Lent isn’t about what sacrifices I will make, although that is part of the discipline of the season, but it’s about the sacrifice He makes for me and how I let it transform the way I live my life. ” One of the most beautiful Masses of the Church year takes place at the Easter Vigil. If you’ve never attended it before, I encourage you to consider going this year. Although it is one of the uncommon late evening liturgies, it is worth the extra effort to go. At one point during the Mass, the church is filled with darkness, everyone standing with expectant, unlit candles in hand. After the blessing of the Easter fire and the lighting of
Christmas is a beautiful season that always fills me with awe that God would become so small and helpless as the baby in a manger, but it is in Christ upon the Cross, vulnerable, abandoned, and emptied of all glory, that I find strength in my moments of deepest pain and grief. I have come to understand that if I remain with Him in suffering, I will rejoice with Him in resurrection, and that is the message and invitation of Lent. Lent isn’t about what sacrifices I will make, although that is part of the discipline of the season, but it’s about the sacrifice He makes for me and how I let it transform the way I live my life. There is something special about a Christian who lives in the light of the resurrection, who faces suffering with trust in God’s love and care for them. They have a certain radiance, even amidst the greatest grief, for they mourn not as those without hope, but as one who is confident that even the darkest Lent will always lead to the warm light of Easter. – Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA
Partners in Giving • Winter 2018 •
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Making Vocation! Headlines Around the Province
Our Aspirants Tell Their Stories ... Editor’s note: Young women who are in their first year of formation to become Salesian Sisters are called “Aspirants.” In their own words, our newest Aspirants share their stories, as we offer our prayers for their spiritual journeys.
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y name is Natasha Roig, and I grew up in Franklin Park, NJ. I have one brother. I began discerning religious life as I entered college. I had always wanted to be a teacher so when I found the Salesian Sisters, I was instantly drawn to their joy and care for the young. I worked at Mary Help of Christians Summer Camp for three years while discerning. I love learning languages and hope to be able to use that love while working in different communities with the Sisters.
thought about being a nun since I was about three years old. However, once I left college, I threw myself into teaching high school and later running my family’s manufacturing business, so thoughts of religious life took a back seat. I began feeling restless and wondered if God was calling me to something else. Last summer, I met Sr. Marie Fe, and she invited me to the “Come & See.” I loved the warmth and friendliness of the Salesian Sisters, and their spirit
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y name is Rose Wingard and I am from Baltimore, MD. I am the second of five children. I have
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y name is Brithany Nicole Bustillo. I was born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, and have a brother and a sister. I chose the Salesians because of their joy. The first time I came to visit, two years ago, I had so much fun with the different Christmas activities they were preparing for. The Sisters made me feel at home. I asked God to show me if this is where He wanted me to be. Well, when I saw an Aspirant mopping the floor using Fabuloso! detergent – the same kind we use at home – that was it! I am the shortest and the youngest in my group of Aspirants.
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y name is Anne Weis and I grew up in St. Louis, MO. I have two sisters and a brother. It was during my freshman year in high school that I first felt that God may be calling me to religious life. Following my first year of college, I realized that I needed to take this call to discern religious life seriously. A friend told me about the Salesian “Come & See.” During that retreat I saw a quote on the wall from St. John Bosco that said, “It is not enough that you love the young; they must know that they are loved,” which resonated deeply with why I wanted to be a teacher.
of joy. I felt embraced by them and welcomed as one of the “family.”
Calling all young women: Come & See what the Salesian life is all about! New Jersey: May 17-20 and August 1-6 For more information and to RSVP, contact Sr. Theresa Lee, Vocations Director: (732) 597-3988 or happynun@gmail.com
Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
y name is Catherine Wares. I hail from the beautiful city of Des Moines, IA. In my spare time I enjoy hiking, canoeing, swimming, Netflixing, and spending quality time chatting with friends. Before deciding to enter the Salesians I studied psychology at the University of Northern Iowa. During my time at university I found that I was restless. Nothing that I studied or involved myself in was bringing me joy. I felt like I didn’t belong there. After two years I moved out to West Virginia to work in Young Adult Ministry. I started to learn more about St. John Bosco and how he was an advocate for youth and sought to bring them closer to Christ and His Church. I decided to take the plunge and let God lead me on my next adventure.
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Making Vocation! Headlines Around the Province
... As Do Some of Our Novices! Editor’s note: Having completed 1-2 years as an Aspirant and one year as a Postulant, young women spend two years as a Novice before taking their First Vows. Here are the stories of some of our current Novices.
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y decision to enter was part of a long and complicated process that weighed heavily on me until the moment I said, “Yes, Lord. I will go.” My heart was filled with selfish and worldly ambition, and I was unwilling to surrender my life to God, even after submitting my application to enter religious formation. In fact, I was interviewing for my dream job in another city. The confusion and stress of having to make a decision – to move on with my career or to enter the convent – kept me up at night. I knew this awful feeling couldn’t be coming from the Holy Spirit. Consulting my spiritual director constantly and seeking advice from the Sisters helped me see that it was really now or never. Sr. Boram Lee Ridgefield Park, NJ
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hroughout my freshman year at the University of Illinois, I had been discerning about entering. The thing
that really pushed me to enter after that year was the peace I had about the idea of entering. Going back to school in the fall didn’t feel right. It was a feeling like when your conscience is prodding you to do the right thing even if it may be a bit difficult. My advice is: Do not be afraid. God will give you the people and the graces you need in the moment you need them. Sr. Rachel Lauritsen Pontiac, IL
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had been praying a lot and for a long time to know my vocation. I had a great job, a good life, but still there was an emptiness because I hadn’t settled down yet. It’s freeing not to be committed to something but also not freeing because you’re not sure where to go. I felt I needed to make a decision. A tipping point for me in deciding to enter into religious life was that I was in class one day, learning about my faith on the side. The professor said, or at least I thought I heard him say, “St. Augustine says
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rank A. Sickinger, II, the brother of Sr. Denise Sickinger, passed away on Christmas Day after celebrating with the Salesian Sisters in Haledon, NJ. He was 70 years old. Born in Paterson, NJ, Frank moved with his parents, Pearl and Frank, and his sister to Haledon in the late 1950s. Following the death of his parents in 2000, Frank moved to Sparta and lived in Wallace
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that if you have the opportunity to join religious life, you should.” I prayed more about it and I felt that Mary would help me along the way. That was enough for me. I’m glad I took the chance. It hasn’t always been easy, but nothing worth doing is ever easy. I’m very happy to have found my place. Sr. Marie Fe Tansioco Virginia Beach, VA
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s a student and part-timer at a coffee shop, I felt deep within me a constant longing for something greater. In the silence of my time alone, commuting to work or school, I sensed a longing for God that could not be satisfied by any guy or anything else. I knew that I was genuinely happy and mostly myself whenever I was serving youth, going to Mass and Adoration. So as I approached graduation, with the gentle guidance of a Salesian Sister, I felt in my heart I wanted to try it out. I wanted to serve God and young people 24/7. I was falling in love with Jesus, and I knew that my happiness was in following Him... and that path turned out to become a Salesian Sister! Sr. Joyce Bermejo Vancouver, B.C., Canada
House, a group home for the Department of Persons with Disabilities (DPD) of the Paterson Diocese. Frank lived a full life surrounded by loving family and friends, including his Salesian and DPD Families. He worked at the Gruenert Center in Jefferson Township for the past 17 years. The Salesian Sisters offer their prayers and condolences to Sr. Denise and the extended family.
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This New Year, Please Give Us This Day!
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o you have a happy occasion you would like to share? The Salesian Sisters will celebrate with you. Is it a time to celebrate a less-than-happy occasion? Our prayer for you on your special day will celebrate this event in your life. Have you someone to thank? Then please “Give Us This Special Day”!
Any and every event, person, or situation that merits special attention will be publicized on a bulletin board outside our chapel on “your” special day. All the Salesian Sisters, on that day, will pray for that person, event, and/or situation and for the person who requests prayer for that special day. The Sisters enjoy taking part in your family’s joys and, also, helping with your sorrows. You have become part of our family, and that is a wonderful exchange of love and concern. Our 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. Please “Give Us This Day” by returning the form below. Thank you and God bless you!
Real-life sisters, Sr. Rosalie and Sr. Domenica Di Peri, enjoyed the annual Christmas Party! (Photo by Joseph Scillieri)
Please give us this day/these days in 2018 in honor of my special request(s):
Please detach and mail this form in the envelope provided.
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Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
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Salesian Youth Report
In the TV studio at Villa Madonna School, seventh-graders Connor Kirchner (left) and Alex Lazzara and Jack Martinez (in front of the green screen) prepare to report the latest school news!
Breaking News! TV Studio Needs YOU!
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his year, after a project will cost in brief hiatus due the neighborhood of to the antiquated $25,000, which will equipment that is more include wiring to all than 15 years old and not classrooms for proper working properly, the TV viewing capabilities. studio at Villa Madonna A renovation of the School in Tampa, FL, is studio would also offer back in action! Thanks children at the Salesian to Todd Schirmer, the Youth Center Summer computers, sound board, Program the ability microphones, etc. are to use the facility and functioning again. With learn. the students having iPads for their studies, The Sisters would love they can find all kinds of the TV Studio to have backgrounds to load on a name. Will your Sr. Joo Yun Park teaches eighth-grader L.J. Ruth how to set everything the green wall behind the company cover the up properly for adequate recording. reporters. The issue now $25,000 cost? Will you becomes how to bring the reporting to shine using skills they have acquired, name it after a loved one? the rest of the school. they become more confident and begin to excel as overall well-rounded For more information on the project, The Villa Madonna School TV individuals. please call Theresa Anderson at (813) Studio has been educating children by 205-3195. Please help us make this growing their leadership abilities and The Salesian Sisters pray that the exciting project a reality – and a big helping them to learn to speak clearly equipment lasts a little longer, as “Breaking News” headline on our they know the TV Studio expansion and effectively. By allowing them to next broadcast! Thank you.
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Salesian Youth Report ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, MARRERO, LA – Students in Medical Terminology learned how “sweet” studying about blood cells could be. As part of a presentation on blood cell pathology and classification, they decorated cupcakes as various types of blood cells: eosinophils (as did the freshmen at right, Emily Lubag, Kate McPherson, and Kacey Lyon), basophils, neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, thrombocytes, and erythrocytes. Medical Terminology is a Healthcare elective course offered at the Academy of Our Lady where students learn how to decode and form important medical terms while understanding the basic functions and structures of the human body. Science never looked so yummy!
SALESIAN YOUTH CENTER/BOYS & GIRLS CLUB, TAMPA, FL – Ho ho ho! The SYC has been blessed for many years with a great Christmas Party thanks to many Santa’s in Tampa who love the children! Rick Fee of Fee & Jeffries, Christ the King Catholic Church, and St. Paul’s do a wonderful job organizing collections from so many people and organizations for the children to have a wonderful Christmas. McDonald’s, Caspar’s Company, offers every kid’s favorite meal for their party (as you can see from the smiles at right). Santa has done a great job of making an appearance, but this year brought about another kind of surprise! Thanks to Catherine “Caki” Rinaldo of the Rinaldo Law Group for jumping right in and helping us by having Santa and Mrs. Claus (left) appear this year. Caki and her husband Nick Rinaldo have been quietly involved for years with the SYC. Truly, the Salesian Youth Center children and the Salesian Sisters have so much gratitude that they can celebrate Christmas thanks to the generous hearts of so many in Tampa! Thank you one and all!
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Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
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Salesian Youth Report
New Scholarship
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ary Help of Christians Academy alumnae Elizabeth Bogert and Mary Jean Hayek have honored their former teacher, Sr. Fanny Florez, with the establishment of a Science/Math Scholarship for a student at Mary Help. Sr. Fanny, professed 55 years as a Salesian Sister, taught science at Mary Help from 1963-1979. Please join us by using the enclosed envelope or by calling the Development Office: (973) 904-0102.
ST. THERESA SCHOOL, KENILWORTH, NJ – Second-graders collaborated on a STEM Project using physics. Teacher Karen DeMaio invited her nephew, Justin Lavan, who is a fiber optic engineer, to teach a lessons about force, friction, and torque. Students used balloons, straws, strings, and tape to conduct “Rudolph Races” against each other. “It was fun and something made my reindeer go faster and win the race,” said Kyle Pumarada. “I think I won because my reindeer was small and I used less tape.” Right you are!
Standing before the Supreme Court are Mary Help juniors Paige Finaldi, Britney DeSanto, Yecenia Duran, Mariangeli Reyes, Linda Rodriguez, and Jaylen Rodriguez, along with Aspirant Natasha Roig.
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tudents from Mary Help of Christians Academy did not let the blistering cold deter them as they boarded buses at the crack of dawn on January 19 to attend the 45th annual March for Life in Washington, DC. Joined by thousands of other pro-life activists, the students marched from the National Mall to the Supreme Court protesting the legalization of abortion. The March for Life is the nation’s largest annual pro-life event.
Salesian Youth Report THE AUXILIUM SCHOOL, NEWTON, NJ – Everyone at the Auxilium School has jumped right into the New Year! School activities started off with the annual New Year’s Eve dance party in the Hall as the students and their teachers danced and sang under the disco ball. Meanwhile, out in the Main Office, the first winners of the school’s annual Calendar Sweepstakes Raffle were being drawn. The raffle runs until March 31 with over $7,000 in prizes. Tickets are $10 each; anyone interested can contact the Main Office: (973) 383-2621. The excitement continued with Rachel Burt (right) from the Sussex County Library making her monthly visit to read a story to each of the classes and work on a related fun activity; the children love when she visits the school. Most recently we also enjoyed a visit from one of our school’s grandfathers, Joe Broesler (left, joined by his grandaughter Kodi), who read a story to the 4-yearold class. Truly, one of the wonderful things about The Auxilium School is the standing invitation to come in and be a part of your child’s school day. The Auxilium School office staff is busy making plans for the rest of the year with another Open House in March that will coincide with the school’s annual Book Fair followed by the return of their Breakfast with the Easter Bunny on March 24. Camp Auxilium is also gearing up with registration NOW open for the 2018 summer season. For more information, please visit www.campauxilium.org.
ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, MARRERO, LA – Academy Choir and Piano students performed in the annual Christmas Concert for family and friends on December 13. Principal Sr. Michelle Geiger (left) congratulated and commended the students and choir/ piano teacher Clark Knighten for a wonderful performance.
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Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 1
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
Salesian Youth Report
From Villa to the U.S. Coast Guard!
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hen President Donald J. Trump delivered the keynote address to cadets during commencement ceremonies at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy last May, among the graduates was Erin Reynolds, a member of the Class of 2009 of Villa Madonna School in Tampa, FL. Erin entered Villa Madonna’s K4 program and graduated as the class valedictorian. She continued her Catholic education at Tampa Catholic High School before earning an appointment to a federal service academy, where she graduated with honors and a bachelor’s degree in Public Policy and Law. Last May, President Trump presented cadets with a commission as ensigns in the U.S. Coast Guard. Ensign Reynolds now serves as the junior officer aboard the USCG Cutter Heriberto Hernandez, a Fast Response Cutter homeported in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Hernandez was one of 13 cutters that responded in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Maria, working to reopen ports and waterways, help the flow of humanitarian aid, and resume maritime commerce. Erin’s parents, Nancy and Mark Reynolds, have been members of the Partners Circle since 2004. They are so very proud of Erin, as are we!
During the U.S. Coast Guard Academy’s commencement ceremony last May, President Trump and then-Cadet Erin Reynolds together told her fellow graduates, “You’re hired!”
Above, Erin in the first grade at Villa Madonna School, 2001 Left, Erin sets the sails on America’s tallest ship, The Eagle.
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Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Province of St. Joseph Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397
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t is a dream come true,” says Sr. Lise Parent (center) of the renovated kitchen in the Salesian Sisters’ convent across from Corpus ChristiHoly Rosary School in Port Chester, NY. A generous benefactor stepped in to rehab the 60-year-old kitchen. All of the work was donated, overseen by Tom Kennedy of E.T. Kennedy Coastal Construction of Mamaroneck, NY. The project was completed in time for Christmas, when a splendid dinner was prepared by all the Sisters, including Sr. Kelly Schuster, Sr. April Hoffman, and Sr. Fran DaGrossa. “Fr. Peter Rinaldi had the first kitchen built for the Sisters,” Sr. Lise noted, “and our benefactor gave this project to honor his memory. I know Fr. Peter was smiling down from Heaven!”