Partners in GivinG
Development Office of the Salesian Sisters, Daughters of Mary Help of Christians • www.salesiansisters.org
Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s Letter Dear Friends, Living in New Jersey has taught me to live in an attitude of expectancy. Today I’m expecting a glorious flaming red Fall, bedecked in a beauty that I never knew growing up in the South. Beyond the surprises that we know will come, God has prepared daily surprises beyond our imagination. On our cover, the Salesian Sisters under the Celtic Cross at our school, St. John Neumann High School in Naples, FL, returned from their formation weekend on fire with God’s love and their mission to the young. Here’s to a happy, productive, and faithfilled new school year at all of our Salesian schools! Some news to report: •
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As you can see on these pages, our website, www.salesiansisters.org, has been redesigned and relaunched! It is refreshing, easy to navigate, and bursting with news and information. Please take a look and bookmark us! Not to be outdone, we have a new page on Facebook, too: “salesiansistersdevelopment.” Please “friend” us and keep in touch! God continues to bless us with new vocations. Two newly-professed young women, Sr. Elfie and Sr. Jennifer, have joined our ranks, while four new ones embark on their formation journey. See pages 4-5. This edition of Partners in Giving went to press on the eve of our annual Dames of Mary Help Gala, “La Dolce Vita.” We’ll have a full report of all the fun and festivities and lots of photos in our next issue.
Autumn’s here and it will be Thanksgiving before we know it. On behalf of all the Salesian Sisters, I thank you most sincerely for your strong faith in us and for keeping us afloat with love, prayers, and generosity. Peace,
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• Volume XXIII • Issue 5
Our redesigned website, www.salesiansisters.org, is our way to keep you better informed about the Salesian Sisters and share the many ways you can become more involved in supporting our vital mission to young people in need. Log on today, read all about us, enjoy the photographs, and share your views with us!
Save the Dates! The Thanksgiving Basket honoring Luis Garcia Saturday, November 9, 2013 Salesian Youth Center/Boys & Girls Club, Tampa, FL For more information and sponsorship opportunities, please call Theresa Anderson: (813) 205-3195.
Annual Christmas Party Sunday, December 8, 2013 Mary Help of Christians Academy North Haledon, NJ
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
Making Headlines Around the Province
Log On to Our Brand New Website!
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alling all surfers! Our website, www.salesiansisters.org, has been redesigned (as you can see on these pages) and is waiting to offer you all you ever wanted to know about the Salesian Sisters, and then some, just at the touch of your fingertips. “Our old website was pretty outdated, and we wanted to offer something new, fresh, and interactive,” says Ariane Nagrosst, manager of the Salesian Sisters’ Development Office. “Our new website is ‘one-stop shopping’ for information about our entire Eastern Province, whether you want to make a donation, learn about becoming a Salesian Sister, or locate a Salesian school or convent near you.”
The website has links to the Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest accounts for the Sisters. An Upcoming Events section includes details on fundraisers as well as spiritual opportunities for young people and adults. The current issue of Partners in Giving is posted online, along with an archive of back issues. If you have adopted a Salesian Sister, you can also send her a prayer request, while learning more about the Sisters, their mission, and daily life. There’s also a private area of the website that the Sisters will use to communicate among themselves. “The reaction so far has been great,” says Ariane. “People say it is easy to navigate and inviting, and they like the photos and videos.” Coming soon is a version of the new website for smartphones and a Salesian Sisters’ “app.” “Stay tuned. The best is yet to come!” Ariane promises.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Autumn 2013 •
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Making Headlines Around the Province
Salesian Joy As New Sisters are Professed
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n August 5, 2013, Sr. Jennifer Kane and Sr. Elfie Del Rosario celebrated their first profession in the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians – the Salesian Sisters – in the company of their fellow Sisters and women in formation, family, and friends. Our prayers, best wishes, and loving welcome go out to our new Sisters! Sr. Elfie was born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. When she was two years old her parents took her and her sister to the Philippines to go to school. There she grew up in a strong Catholic environment and was involved for many years in a charismatic youth and young adult minstry group called “Youth and Singles for Christ.” Above, Fr. Tom Dunne, SDB, Salesian Provincial, bestows his blessing upon Sr. Jennifer Kane and Sr. Elfie Del Rosario during the August 5 Mass in St. Joseph’s Chapel in North Haledon, NJ.
Elfie graduated in 2003 from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila with a degree in psychology. After college she and her family moved to New Jersey, where she taught children with special needs for six years. Sr. Elfie’s first assignment as a Salesian Sister was to Corpus ChristiHoly Rosary School in Port Chester, NY. She is current enjoying her mission there among the young as a kindergarten teacher.
At left, the two newest Salesian Sisters bow their heads in prayer.
Sr. Jennifer was born in Corning, NY. She attended Clarkson University on an ROTC scholarship, graduating in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering.
Photos by Craig Janos
From there Jennifer served four years of active duty with the United States Air Force as a systems engineer. She completed her active Air Force duty with the rank of captain.
York in Oswego, earning a master’s degree in education in 2005. Military deployments beginning in 2006 – three to Iraq and one to Saudi Arabia – made it difficult for Jennifer to commit to a full-time teaching position.
In 2003 she entered graduate school at the State University of New
Soon God’s call was stronger than the military life, and Jennifer’s internet
4 • Partners in Giving
• Volume XXIII • Issue 5
search of religious orders turned up the Salesian Sisters. She formally ended her 12-year affiliation with the National Guard in 2009, entering the Salesians that August. Sr. Jennifer has been assigned to teach religion at St. John Neumann High School in Naples, FL.
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
Welcome to our new Aspirants: Katie Nicosia, Kelly Schuster, Mary DeMott, and Jennifer Patterson.
Sr. Karen Dunn, Provincial Superior (center), welcomes Sr. Jennifer Kane and Sr. Elfie Del Rosario.
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e warmly welcome four young women who arrived in North Haledon, NJ on August 31 as “Aspirants,” for their first year of the initial formation program of the Salesian Sisters: • Mary DeMott is an elementary school teacher from Michigan. She taught in Michigan as well as at St. Joseph School in Tampa, FL.
Sr. Elfie pins a rose on her father, Ernesto, as her proud mother, Candida, looks on.
• Katie Nicosia is a college student from Staten Island, NY. Katie was actively involved in her parish as a youth leader and as a catechist. • Jennifer Patterson is a music teacher and is originally from Louisiana. • Kelly Schuster is a high school teacher from Delaware. She spent the last three years teaching at Cristo Rey High School in Washington, DC as a Salesian Lay Missionary. All of these young women bring their own special gifts together with their dream to become a Salesian Sister. They want to deepen their love and commitment to Christ in order to bring His love to others, especially to young people at risk.
Sr. Jennifer places a corsage on the wrist of her mother, Carol, as her proud father, Tom, looks on.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
We offer them our prayer and support on their vocational journey and we wish them well as they learn and live the Salesian charism in community and among the young. – Sr. Phyllis Neves, FMA
Partners in Giving • Autumn 2013 •
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I
am proud to be a Villa Madonna School parent and wanted to send a message to share about how important this school, and the work they do, has been to my family and me. My wife and I are in our eighth school year as Villa Madonna parents. In our professional lives, we work with schools and were immensely impressed by what we saw the very first time we visited the campus, after being implored to visit by a former parent who told us that Villa Madonna was “like a family.” From day one, we have felt the love that permeates the school and, indeed, Villa Madonna is a family. Last January, I entered the hospital with a condition that required surgery. Unfortunately, the surgery did not go as planned and my life was threatened on more than one occasion. After 64 days of hospitalization and numerous follow-up visits and treatments, I survive today in large part because of the prayers, faith, and the support of a loving family. That family includes Villa Madonna – the Salesian Sisters, the teachers, and the families with whom we have shared so much.
ishing each and every one of you wonderful Salesian Sisters many blessings. What memories I have! I am so grateful for the Salesian spirit in my life. G.B., via Facebook
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e are delighted to share the following poem by our dear and generous friend, Antonia P. Meola:
From
M
Our
bo ail
x
“I cannot possibly explain the lengths to which my Villa Madonna School family supported me when I needed it the most, but I can tell you that I would not be here without them.”
There were the numerous hospital visits and prayers from the school’s Sisters. There are the supportive teachers who helped our daughter cope with the stresses caused by my illness. There is the life-saving ICU nurse who is a former Villa Madonna student and now a Villa Madonna parent. There are the dear friends, also part of the Villa Madonna Family, who offered so much support and prayers. I cannot possibly explain the lengths to which my Villa Madonna family supported me when I needed it the most, but I can tell you that I would not be here without them and for that, I will forever be grateful. I thank the Lord for my Villa Madonna family and for all who have contributed to make it into what it is today. Tampa, FL
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ll kids with the Salesian Sisters are always smiling. I know why – I had them as teachers! C.D., via Facebook
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• Volume XXIII • Issue 5
My Shepherd
The Lord is my Shepherd, My Shepherd is He, And He makes me happy, As happy can be.
I know He is there, Whenever I call, And I call Him quite often, Whenever I fall.
Some falls they are big, Some falls they are small, But He hears my voice, Whenever I call.
I call when I’m happy, I call when I’m not, I call day or night, Yea, He hears me a lot.
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ongratulations, Sr. Mildred, on your Jubilee! As I teach my own kids to drive I realize how very brave you are! M.K.H., via Facebook
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t is through the prayers of our five adopted Salesian Sisters, I believe, that I received a surprise inheritance! We enclose a check for $1,000 for wherever you need it most. Grand Rapids, MI
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lease give Sr. Monique my love. As a past pupil of Mary Help (class of 1985), I have answered many questions from my six-year-old about religion with confidence because of her! C.C., via Facebook Thank you for your letters! We love to hear from you! Please write to us c/o Sr. Mary Rinaldi, 659 Belmont Avenue, 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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genuine Hawaiian luau was brought to the St. Joseph Provincial Center, complete with flower leis, Polynesian specialities, and exotic “cocktails,” all courtesy of the wonderful Connors and Laudone families. A grand time was had by all our elderly Sisters, who send a heartfelt Aloha to all their Adopters!
Won’t you consider Adopting a Sister? Join 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. 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. Please complete the form below or, to learn more, visit www.salesiansisters.org or call (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you!
Story here previewing Gala and Pesci auction items?
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Autumn 2013 •
7
Salesian CAMP! Report
CORPUS CHRISTI-HOLY ROSARY SCHOOL, PORT CHESTER, NY – Our fourth annual “Lifesavers” summer camp, held in August, drew its largest attendance to date, with the addition of a camp for our littlest ones in Pre-K. A day at Rye Beach (above), made possible by Terry Fanelli, was a huge hit for our inner-city kids. As you can see from the smiles on their faces, fun was had by all! Thanks to the caring and generous hearts of our friends and supporters, Port Chester’s children had a summer to remember and memories to last a lifetime! JOE & ANNE GARCIA SALESIAN YOUTH CENTER/BOYS & GIRLS CLUB, TAMPA, FL – Talk about a colorful photo! Children pose with Sr. Clare Kennelly (left) in their new tie-dye shirts brought to them as a special treat from Sr. Karen Dunn, Provincial Superior, during her visit. Have a rainbow day, everyone!
8 • Partners in Giving
• Volume XXIII • Issue 5
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
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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.
new Partners Circle Members so far in 2013!
There are nine levels of membership, starting at $500, and are listed on these three pages. Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group in 2013, our 22nd year?
Shown in RED
Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you!
Joseph J. McAleer, Sr., Heritage Society Major Bequests California Richard Meissner, Meissner Manufacturing
Florida Dr. & Mrs. Vincent Bagli Mr. & Mrs. Ray Campo Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Garcia Mrs. Ann Lowry Murphey
Angel Oliva Family The Dorothy Thomas Foundation
Indiana
Mr. Anthony Petrocelli Ms. Roberta Ruocco Ms. Celeste Tripi Mr. Vincent Waraske
Mrs. Beatrice Lightfoot
New Jersey
New York Mrs. Pearl Kalikow
Tony Amato Family The Carini Family
Partners Circle “Visionaries” Annual gift of $25,000 Florida In memory of Henrietta Veronica Schmoll Rauenhorst
Partners Circle “Stewards” Annual gift of $10,000 Texas Mrs. Betty Turner
Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle Welcome New 2013 Members in Red!
25 Welcome
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.
Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle Welcome New 2013 Members in Red!
Partners Circle “Partners” Annual gift of $5,000 Florida Mr. & Mrs. James Millar
Mr. & Mrs. Rodger Rohde Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Weiner
New Jersey
New York Mr. Anthony J. Carroll Mr. John Cassara
Mr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis In memory of Mr. & Mrs. C.H. Church, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Robert Harkins Mr. Bill McLaughlin Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer
Pennsylvania Mr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow
Partners Circle “Founders” Annual gift of $2,000 California Mrs. Maryann Roman
Connecticut Mr. Michael Guarnieri Mr. & Mrs. David McAleer Dr. Joseph McAleer
Partners Circle “Friends” Annual gift of $3,000 Florida Mr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor
Florida Mrs. Janis Boyd Anthony & Diana Ekonomou The Joseph J. Hermann & Rose A. Hermann Charitable Foundation Dr. Idalia Lastra Mr. Fredy Padovan
New Jersey
Partners Circle “Benefactors” Annual gift of $1,000 California
Missouri
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Obenberger
Ms. Marianne O’Doherty
Connecticut
Mrs. Rosemarie D’Alessandro Ms. Debi F. Debiak Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Laino Mr. & Mrs. Dale Livi Mr. & Mrs. Brian McAuley Mrs. Arline Monaco Mr. & Mrs. Michael Massood
Mr. & Mrs. Peter Christiansen Mr. & Mrs. Salvatore Zichichi A Friend
Florida Mr. & Mrs. John Anello Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Caballero Terrell & Joe Clark Dr. & Mrs. Rod Jurado Mr. & Mrs. H. Tyson Lykes, II Mr. & Mrs. Jim Major Mr. & Mrs. Frank Middendorf John & Lydia Oliva Mr. & Mrs. Gene Perez
Georgia Mr. Robert Reiter
Massachusetts Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair
New Jersey
New York Ms. Lea Battiato Mr. & Mrs. James Dell’Orto Mr. & Mrs. John W. Lombardi Msgr. William T. Rodgers The Sabatine Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Silveri
Pennsylvania Allyson & Kevin Hardy
Mr. & Mrs. John Connors Mr. Anthony Gulino Ms. Ida Gulino Ms. Nancy Gulino Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hoffman Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Laudone Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Massood Mr. & Mrs. Michael Massood Kathleen & Vic Medore Ms. Antonia P. Meola Mrs. Moira McBride Murphy Mr. Stephen Papetti Ms. Rose Perone
New York Ms. Jordon Carroll Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala, Jr.
Pennsylvania In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA
South Carolina Mr. & Mrs. Tom Aldinger
Annual gift of $750 Florida Mr. Declan Mansfield Fred & Anne Michaels
Louisiana Mr. John Keller
New Jersey Mr. Anthony B. Della Cerra Mr. & Mrs. Dominic Stimola
New York Mrs. Helen Leahy
OUR MISSION 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.
Partners Circle “Members” Annual gift of $500 Arizona A Friend
California Mr. Ian H. Graham Geraldine & Joanne Rizzuto
Connecticut Mr. & Mrs. Edward Goin Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey
Florida Mr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Sr. Mr. James J. Burrowes Mrs. Yoli Buss Dr. & Mrs. Robert Cano Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Capitano Mrs. Trudy Carey Dr. & Mrs. Antonio Castro Mr. & Mrs. J.C. De Lotto Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria Drs. Andrea & Sean Farrier Mr. & Mrs. Luis Garcia Mrs. Rose Graziano Mrs. Elsa Gutierrez-Janulionis Mr. & Mrs. James W. Lee Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds Mr. & Mrs. Rene Rodriguez Hon. Judge & Mrs. E.J. Salcines Mr. Charles B. Schmalz Mrs. Peggy Jones Theis Mr. Joseph Tomaino Ms. Maria C. Torreiro Mr. & Mrs. Ron Yates
Mrs. Stephanie Goldberg Mrs. Teresa Gutto Michael & Mary Losurdo Ms. Laura Mannarino Mrs. Diva Muller Mr. & Mrs. Bob O’Halloran Mrs. Christine Peragallo Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski Mr. & Mrs. Cameron Reid Mr. & Mrs. John Soldoveri Mr. & Mrs. William Stuart
New York Michael & Jeanette Altamura Mr. & Mrs. Jack Betwarda Mr. Charles Brown Kevin & Kathy Clair Mrs. Rose Mary Clair Terence & Patricia Clair Mr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio Ms. Claire Dell Mr. Joseph Hill Mr. Walter Lazarcheck Ms. Elizabeth Nardone Mrs. Joan Oliver Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec
North Carolina Mr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard Mr. Chester F. Michewicz, Jr.
Ohio Mr. & Mrs. Dan Clair
Pennsylvania Mr. & Mrs. Jack Hedgecock
Georgia
South Carolina
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Fantauzza
Anonymous
Illinois
Texas
Joseph & Adelaide Olivieri
Mr. & Mrs. Bill Locklier
Massachusetts
Virginia
Ms. Patti Gauthier Ms. Josephine Petrillo Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading
Mrs. Dominique Faust Mr. Michael Maurer Mr. & Mrs. Karl Zauner
New Jersey Tiziana Anello, M.D. Ms. Bernice Bednarz Larry & Mary Anne Condit Dr. & Mrs. Louis A. Gambetta Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Giamonco
Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle Welcome New 2013 Members in Red!
Partners Circle “Associates”
We Give Thanks for Your Special Day
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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 celebrate a lessthan-happy occasion? Our prayer for 30 days will celebrate this event in your life. Have you someone to thank? All of us will help multiply this gratitude to that special person. Is there a special person or event to bring to the attention of your friends? Then please “Give Us This Special 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 fall season with its colors and celebrations. Enjoy Thanksgiving knowing that you are special to us, and our prayers rise daily for you and your dear ones.
Aloha! Sr. Rufina Delgado and Sr. Claire Perino enjoy the Luau festivities!
Please Help Our Retired Sisters In Need! Please reserve this day/these days in 2013 or 2014 in honor of my special intention to support the Endowment for the St. Joseph Provincial Center for our Retired Sisters:
• • GIVE US THIS
Day
Day 1 (Month, day):
Significance:
Day 2 (Month, day):
Significance:
Day 3 (Month, day):
Significance:
Total enclosed @ $100 per day: $ ____________ Please make your check payable to: Salesian Sisters
Name Address
Telephone
Please detach and mail in the enclosed envelope. Thank you!
12 •
Partners in Giving • Volume XXIII • Issue 5
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
Turning Back the Tide Sr. Karen Dunn’s Letter
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voices were he Year of Faith is quickly Pope to turn a deadly wave – a surge heard, and coming to a close on ready to engulf the world – on ITS the rhetoric November 24, 2013, the head! shifted An Solemnity of Christ the King. This escalation which would have special year witnessed the unusual A day of prayer and fasting for peace! destroyed even more lives and event of a Pope’s resignation and a When Pope Francis called for the wreaked more havoc than Syria’s conclave which was able to quickly Church and people of every faith to inner strife had already inflicted on elect a non-European successor pray and fast on September 7, the the innocent was averted, at least barely considered to have been idea immediately took off. Letters for a time. The world cautiously among the “papabili.” It was a year were written by bishop after bishop to exhaled. that saw many parish initiatives their people, and the message echoed examine, deepen, celebrate, through letters to school parents and That day of September 7 saw and announce the faith: faith religious, through pastoral bulletins the powers of diplomacy, peace, formation days for adults, special and websites – all exhorting people and reason shored-up by the themed retreats and events for the to activate their faith in prayer and power of millions young, pilgrimages, who publically and symposiums, reflecprivately prayed “That day of September 7 tion days, online and sacrificed to resources and apps, saw the powers of diplomacy, reverse that fierce book clubs, focus on peace, and reason shoredenergy which has the New Evangelizabeen seemingly tion – all aimed at up by the power of millions uncontainable in the revitalizing the faith who publically and privately last decades. A mighty and bringing us back tide was turned back prayed and sacrificed. A to one person: Christ. – turned back by the The creativity of mighty tide was turned back – turned back by inestimable force of response was endless! the inestimable force of prayer and offering!” prayer and offering! What was the result How’s that for a faith for those who entered booster during the Year of Faith? into the spirit of this Year of Faith? penance in order to hold back the New awareness and new fervor, a rushing momentum toward military How’s that for a confirmation of renewal of faith, the search for a strikes in Syria. And while the world the power of prayer raised by an deeper relationship with Christ and, held its breath, Masses were offered, entire people? for some, a return to Christ. prayer vigils were held, holy hours were attended, and fasting was How’s that for a renewal of faith in While both Popes vigorously embraced worldwide. the power and presence of Christ in preached Christ, this newness and His Church? freshness of a living faith seemed Millions joined themselves to the personified in Pope Francis. And crowd with Pope Francis in St. Peter’s “But thanks be to God! He although the media loves even Square, giving witness to their faith and gives us the victory through a suggestion of controversy and offering prayers and penance to obtain our Lord Jesus Christ.” will tease the public into thinking the grace of conversion to peace for the – 1 Corinthians 15:57 that this new pontiff would turn world and for themselves, and mercy the Church and Christ’s teaching for the people of Syria. To learn more about the Year of on its head, the world witnessed Faith and observances leading to a moment when the most basic And soon – lo and behold! – there its finale, visit www.annusfidei.va traditions were called upon by this was another option on the table, new
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Autumn 2013 •
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Memorials
A Love That Lasts Forever
Received between August 1 and October 1, 2013 Julio Pérez-Estévez Ms. Gloria Perez
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. It joins your loved ones to the prayers of the Salesian Sisters and supports 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 Name – DECEASED
Margherita Fontanella Joel, Bruce, & Teresa Schuckman Ms. Peggy Sisselman Ms. Sherry Franek
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Harkins Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Garcia Mrs. Lydia Reidy Mr. & Mrs. H. Dorfman Mr. & Mrs. Carl Mellone Vincenza Scoca Ms. Karen Facey
Diana T. Gallagher Mr. William Gallagher
John Soldoveri Ms. Pauline Farizo
Benita González-Rodicio Ms. Gloria Perez
Magdalene “Maggie” Thibault Mrs. Joan Alexander
Segundo González-Rodicio Ms. Gloria Perez
Mary Zambito Mr. & Mrs. Rene Rodriguez
Amalia González-Rodicio Ms. Gloria Perez Pat McLaughlin The Salesian Sisters Partners Circle Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. John Connors
Tributes Received between August 1 and October 1, 2013
Tribute for Name – LIVING
Occasion Please send an acknowledgement to: Name
Debra Hartman Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Hartman Sr. Jennifer Kane, FMA Miss Mary Jean Hayek Mr. & Mrs. Frank Provenzano Ms. Clara Mitchell
Address My Name Address
Detach & mail to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
14 • Partners in Giving
Sr. Elfie Del Rosario, FMA Miss Mary Jean Hayek Ms. Clara Mitchell
• Volume XXIII • Issue 5
St. Anthony Ms. Theresa Maloney Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Scillieri Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Amabile Mr. & Mrs. Dean Emerson Edward Simeone Mr. & Mrs. Dale Livi
Beverly Rohde Mrs. Susan McCann Mrs. Valerie Millerick Mrs. Sheila Usdin Ms. Nancy Porta Ms. Nancy DuBois Marlene & Marion Galvin
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
The Joy of Being a Salesian Sister
Climb Every Mountain – and Ladder!
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true Daughter of Mary Help of Christians is always ready to move mountains, to go where needed, and to do whatever is needed. This may range from teaching children in the classroom, to taking care of the elderly Sisters, to building and grounds maintenance, to riding a golf cart – not for golfing, let it be understood – and yes, even to climbing ladders to make sure the statue of Our Lady keeps its pristine brightness! Sr. Ramona Beltré had an excellent preparation for her selfless all-around giving and working. Born in Santo Domingo, the first of eight children, she immigrated to the United States in order to help her family financially. Settling in Port Chester, NY, she worked two full time jobs and also attended night classes. Evidently, this was not enough to exhaust her energies, so she soon began helping in Holy Rosary Parish with the Cursillo retreats. She also succeeded in bringing her family to the U.S. This was definitely a valid resume to bring to the Superiors when she asked to join the Salesian Sisters. Professed in 1990, she has continued her work ethic and generosity, giving of her time and talent to any task at hand. Sr. Ramona has taught at many of our Salesian schools. In 2006, while teaching Pre-K-3 at the former Pope John Paul II School in Clifton, NJ, she was honored with the “Hispanic Teacher of the Year Award” presented by Su Guia, the Spanishlanguage weekly newspaper published by North Jersey Media Group. This past summer, Sr. Ramona was co-director for Camp Mary Help,
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
which she thoroughly enjoyed. Her special delight was the tiniest campers, assisting them in eating their lunch and helping them follow the camp rules. Another source of joy was the willingness of the children to participate in prayer and liturgy with reverence and the messages of faith they brought home to their families. The happiness she saw radiated on the children’s faces was ample reward for all her efforts.
For this coming year, Sr. Ramona will continue to be the facilities manager at Mary Help of Christians Academy and surely this will also continue to challenge her in the use of her many gifts and talents. Of greatest need is the replacement of the leaky roof of St. Joseph’s Chapel (shown in the photo above), which was badly damaged by Hurricane Sandy last year. – Sr. Mary Terzo, FMA
Partners in Giving • Autumn 2013 •
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Look! There’s My Salesian Sister!
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t’s moving time! Here’s a handy reference to locate your Salesian Sister as well as the young women in our formation program. Please write, e-mail, or call – we love to hear from you!
St. Mary Mazzarello Convent 23000 53rd St. SW Naples, FL 34116 Telephone: (239) 348-2911 Website: www.sjnceltics.com Sr. Pat Roche, Animator Sr. Rosemary Cordes Sr. Brittany Harrison Sr. Jennifer Kane
ILLINOIS
CALIFORNIA St. Joseph House of Formation 9803 Muroc Street Bellflower, CA 90706 Telephone: (562) 866-7938 Postulants Katie Flanagan Kristen Gawlik April Hoffman Chelsea Schuster
FLORIDA Blessed Laura Vicuña Convent 226 S. W. 20th Road Miami, FL 33129-1429 Telephone: (305) 857-9186 Website: www.lasallehighschool.com Sr. Kim Keraitis, Animator Sr. Fanny Florez Sr. Marisol Guzman Lopez Villa Madonna Convent 315 West Columbus Drive Tampa, FL 33602-1306 Tel: (813) 223-2209, ext. 393 Website: www.villamadonna.org Sr. Susan Bagli, Animator Sr. Nivia Arias Sr. Danielle Gonzalez Sr. Janet Keller Sr. Clare Kennelly Sr. Arlene Rubino
16 • Partners in Giving
St. Patrick Convent 408 Cedar Street St. Charles, IL 60174 Telephone: (630) 338-8250 Website: www.stpatrickparish.org Sr. Liz Ryan, Animator Sr. Isabel Garza Sr. Betty Ann Martinez St. John Bosco Convent St. John’s Catholic Newman Center University of Illinois Newman Hall 604 East Armory Avenue Champaign, IL 61820 Telephone: (217) 255-6645 Website: www.sjcnc.org Sr. Loretta De Dominicis, Animator Sr. Mary Arciga Sr. Theresa Lee Sr. Maryann Schaefer
LOUISIANA Immaculate Conception Convent 2605 Crestwood Road Marrero, LA 70072 Telephone: (504) 347-4887 Website: icschargers.org/cms Sr. Carmen Peña, Animator Sr. Maria Colombo Sr. Michelle Geiger Sr. Hélène Godin
• Volume XXIII • Issue 5
NEW JERSEY St. Joseph Provincial Center & Provincial Offices 655 Belmont Avenue Haledon, NJ 07508-2301 Telephone: (973) 790-7966 Website: www.salesiansisters.org Sr. Karen Dunn, Provincial Superior Sr. Antoinette Cedrone, Provincial Secretary Sr. Margaret Wilhelm, Provincial Treasurer Sr. Pauline Joss, Animator Sr. Dora Adames Sr. Catherine Altamura Sr. Antoinette Cabrera Sr. Amelia Callegarin Sr. Antonia Cvetko Sr. Suzanne Dauwalter (in Rome) Sr. Rufina Delgado Sr. Virginia Dickey Sr. Rosalie Di Peri Sr. Anita Durocher Sr. Frances Gumino Sr. Cathy Hurley Sr. Emilia Kassab Sr. Balbina Lopez Sr. Gloria Machado Sr. Inez Molano Sr. Catherine Novo Sr. Mary Palladino Sr. Louise Passero Sr. Mary Bertha Paquin Sr. Claire Perino Sr. Jeanette Puglisi Sr. Anna Ragogna Sr. Grace Ruiz Sr. Livia Setti Sr. Denise Sickinger Sr. Ruth Stecker Sr. Judith Suprys Sr. Carmela Termine Sr. Mary Terzo Sr. Eileen Tickner Sr. Mary Winterscheidt Sr. Patricia Winterscheidt Sr. Mildred Zanetti Sr. Mary Anne Zito
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
Our dear friend, Academy Award-winning actor Joe Pesci, hosted the Salesian Sisters at his oceanfront home in August. The Sunday afternoon visit and supper with Joe and his daughter, Tiffany, was a delightful treat. Thank you, and God bless you both!
Mary Help of Christians Academy 659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Telephone: (973) 790-6200 Website: www.maryhelp.org Sr. Phyllis Neves, Animator Sr. Ramona Beltré Sr. Mary Ann Caspary Sr. Colleen Clair Sr. Agatha Cosentino Sr. Esther Cruz Sr. Emy De Filippi Sr. Marisa De Rose Sr. Domenica Di Peri Sr. Mary Jackson Sr. Lise Parent Sr. Mary Rinaldi Sr. Teresita Teran Aspirants Mary DeMott Katie Nicosia Jennifer Patterson Kelly Schuster
“W
2nd Year Novices Sr. Lindsay Durham Sr. Brigette Hanley Sr. Theresa Khong 1st Year Novices Sr. Christina Chong Sr. Marianne Cline Sr. Lillian Foxx Sr. Myriam Méus
St. Theresa Convent 112 - 23rd Street Kenilworth, NJ 07033-1256 Telephone: (908) 276-5028 Website: www.icatholiczone.com/ SaintTheresa Sr. Theresa Lee, Animator Sr. Letizia Bocanegra Sr. Monique Huart Sr. Juliett Perez
Auxilium Center 14 Old Swartswood Rd. Newton, NJ 07860 Telephone: (973) 383-2621 Website: www.campauxilium.org Sr. Theresa Samson, Animator Sr. Merissa Loucks Sr. Mary Louise Mazzocco Sr. Elizabeth Russo
Sacred Heart Retreat Center 20 Old Swartswood Road Newton, NJ 07860-6221 Telephone: (973) 383-2620 Website: www.sacredheart spiritualitycenter.org Sr. Joanne Holloman, Animator & Directress of Novices Sr. Theresa Kelly, Retreat Director Sr. Guerline Joseph Sr. Florine Lagaçe Sr. Carmen Morales
NEW YORK
e Salesian Sisters commit ourselves to the new evangelization of youth. Impelled by our charism, we evangelize by educating. We open up new ways for the education of the young, deepening within them an attitude of respect for the dignity of the human person and an openness to life in all its forms. We commit ourselves to a community lifestyle which is simple, poor, welcoming, and able to create a new educative presence among poor youth.”
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Corpus Christi Convent 135 South Regent Street Port Chester, NY 10573-3510 Telephone: (914) 937-4407 Website: www.cchrs.org Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza, Animator Sr. Margaret Rose Buonaiuto Sr. Frances Da Grossa Sr. Elfie Del Rosario Sr. Joo Yun Park
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Salesian Youth Report
St. Anthony’s Looks to the Next 100 Years!
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tudents at St. Anthony School in Hawthorne, NJ started the new year with enhancements inside the building and across the curriculum. “Our school just celebrated its one hundredth birthday” says Principal St. Marisa DeRose. “Now we will be building on that strong tradition of quality education as we move forward to meet the demands and challenges of the twenty-first-century learner. We are especially excited by the partnerships we’ve recently developed in the fields of Science, Engineering and Math.” Over the summer, St. Anthony teachers participated in a number of professional development workshops, including the ACE Collaborative for Academic Excellence out of the University of Notre Dame, a consortium for development of curricula based on the Common Core in Math and Language Arts. With staff from Stevens Institute of Technology, teachers also attended enhanced STEM instruction (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), incorporating the Next Generation Science Standards. There’s more. Beginning this fall, St. Anthony’s will be one of four schools from the Diocese of Paterson to participate in Northwestern University’s Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center educational program. Under the leadership of Ms. June Polidoro and Ms. Mary Wrenn, our junior high students will be conducting investigations utilizing nanotechnology (measurement of particles one billionth of a meter) and its real-world applications.
18 • Partners in Giving
Amelia Balik, Annie Cummins, Alexis Keiser, Victoria Newman, Katie VanBuskirk, and Stephanie Ramos, students at St. Anthony School, present the results of their year-long STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) instruction at a showcase featuring schools in the Diocese of Paterson, NJ.
“Advancements in technology may change how we educate our students, but our mission of providing academic excellence in a loving environment remains the same.” Continuing to provide efficient and effective uses of technology in the classroom, each student in grades 5 through 8 will once again receive an iPad. The media center has been equipped with updated computer
• Volume XXIII • Issue 5
stations and all students have access to new laptops both in their classrooms and in mobile labs. To meet the demands of its increased enrollment, the school has added several new instructors and aides to the staff. Sr. Marisa concludes, “Although the constant advancements in technology may have changed how we educate our students, our mission of providing academic excellence in a loving environment remains the same. All of this gives me reason to look to the new school year with great enthusiasm.”
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Salesian Youth Report
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – Mary Help celebrated the first Liturgy of the new school year with Bishop Arthur Serratelli on September 10. The Bishop praised the choir and the student body for their beautifully sung hymns and gifted the students with his annual “Bishop’s day off”. Mary Help promised to keep the Bishop in their prayers and several students went to have refreshments in the Sisters’ dining room with the Bishop, Brother William Dygert, the Superintendent of Paterson Diocese, and the Deputy Superintendent, Ms. Mary Baier. The girls shared their daily experiences, sports, spiritual life, and service. Fun was had by all and our guests were very impressed with the articulacy of our students. Come back soon, Bishop! In June 1963, 59 young women graduated from Mary Help. On September 15, 2013, 24 came together (right) for their fiftieth class reunion! The committee sent letters, searched the internet, and made efforts to find as many classmates as possible. In the process, they sadly learned that eight classmates had already passed. The long-awaited reunion weekend came, and as soon as the ladies arrived, one exclaimed, “All the years melted away and we were young again!” Another said, “Coming home to Mary Help is a real joy that fills me completely.” Fr. Michael Burke celebrated the Anniversary Mass, which was followed by brunch in the convent and a tour of their school. As each one took leave, they promised to meet each year, at least for dinner.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Autumn 2013 •
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Salesian Youth Report IMMACULATE CONCEPTION SCHOOL, MARRERO, LA – Back to school! Far right, Sr. Helene Godin, Principal, addresses the middle school students with a message of “Making each day count” on the first day of school. Below, Religion teacher Karla Pertuit helps PK(3) student Evan Tran to class on his first day.
IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, MIAMI, FL – The newly renovated library space turned Interactive Student Learning Center has quickly become a vibrant hub for student and teacher collaboration, conversation, and education. Since the introduction of their Apple Distinguished iPad Program, iLearn@ILS, creating a 21st century learning environment seemed to become a necessity to meet the demands of our learners. The Learning Center now includes two “Media:scape” rooms – glass enclosed rooms (above) where you can write on the walls and glass as well as connect up to eight devices and share them on two flat panel televisions. The Center was made possible by the generosity of our families and alumni as well as partnerships developed with Empire Office and Steelcase.
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• Volume XXIII • Issue 5
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
Salesian Youth Report MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – Thanks to a successful application by teacher Mary Hartnett, ReLANpro, the leader in language learning technology, has awarded Mary Help a “21st Century Learning Scholarship.” The three-year grant will assist the school by creating software that helps teachers reach their objectives. Congratulations! In particular, Mary Help was applauded for its: • Support of a 1:1 laptop program.
• Support of multiple languages: English, French, Spanish, Italian.
VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, TAMPA, FL – There was a lot of excitement at Villa Madonna during the second week of September as Apple iPads (in protective blue carrying cases) were handed out to each student in grades 6, 7, and 8. Classes on proper use and treatment of the new equipment followed. Villa Madonna is pioneering the use of iPads in the Tampa area, and students are blessed to have such advanced technology at their fingertips. What a great way for the students to learn!
• Desire to introduce the “flipped” classroom approach, offering more personalized learning. • Goal to offer students every opportunity for personal and professional success. • Commitment to serve students from economically disadvantaged communities. “With the ReLANpro system, each language classroom can become its own mini language lab, eliminating the need for a separate lab area,” explains Ms. Hartnett. “The individual instructor would be able to schedule listening activities as appropriate for his/her own class, rather than be dependent upon the ability to schedule time in the language lab.”
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Partners in Giving • Autumn 2013 •
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Salesian Youth Report ST. THERESA SCHOOL, KENILWORTH, NJ – Mrs. Sierant’s Kindergarten class is learning about bullying and the importance of positive feelings by playing with “Prehistoric Pals” brought by Mr. Jan of Prevention Links in Roselle Park, NJ. Prehistoric Pals is a prevention program designed to provide young children with the necessary skills to express and deal successfully with feelings of anger and rage.
ST. JOHN NEUMANN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL, NAPLES, FL – On July 20, seven students, two teachers, and Sr. Suzanne Dauwalter (right) embarked on an adventure, a sevenday service trip to the mountains of Estelí in Nicaragua. There we worked with past pupils from Immaculata La Salle High School in Miami, preparing meals, teaching classes, building a soccer field, and painting classrooms, gates, and murals at the Salesian Sisters’ School, Centro Sor Maria Romero. The experience was a life-changing one. We were able to visit the homes of the students and witness the poverty of Nicaragua first hand. Our team was astounded at the joy and happiness we saw in the children despite their extreme poverty. The children and their families welcomed us into their community and their lives. We truly see how fortunate we are and appreciate all the good things in our lives. Members of our team pledged to not forget the children of the Center and to keep in contact with them throughout the year. The trip ended with heartfelt hugs and tears, and promises to return next year. – Makenna Hennel, Senior
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• Volume XXIII • Issue 5
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
Salesian Youth Report UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, CHAMPAIGN, IL – Sr. Maryann Schaefer, Sr. Mary Arciga, Sr. Loretta DeDomenicis, and Sr. Theresa Samson show their school spirit with the residents of the Newman Center for the annual “Stuff Huff” volleyball tournament held in Huff Hall on campus. Can you tell orange is one of the colors of the “Fighting Illini”?!
ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, MARRERO, LA – The Student Council, channeling “The Wizard of Oz,” chose “There’s No Place Like The Academy” for their 2013-2014 theme. Getting into the act are Munchkin Bailee Kerner; Tin Man Alexis Musacchia; Lion Allison McCarthy; Dorothy, Darian Bouvier; Scarecrow Allison DiMaggio; and Lollipop Kid Marley Schaefer.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
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Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397
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PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bimonthly magazine published by the
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Telephone: (973) 904-0102 Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS Fax: (973) 904-0041 E-mail: fmadevt@aol.com Website: www.salesiansisters.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/ salesiansistersdevelopment Editorial Board Dr. Joseph McAleer, Editor Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of Development Melissa Esposito, Production Manager Sr. Mary Terzo, FMA, Editorial Assistant Federal Tax ID # 22-6043753 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc. PRIVACY POLICY: Your name, address, and other information are held in confidence by our ministry and will never be sold, rented, or given to any other organization. Partners in Giving welcomes letters, articles, and photos from contributors. We reserve the right to edit for publication.
Partners in Giving • Autumn 2013
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n Marrero, LA, Academy of Our Lady Senior Marley Schaefer is following in the footsteps of her mother and grandmother as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, serving at the Academy’s opening School Mass on the Feast of the Assumption, August 15. Marley is the third generation of Extraordinary Ministers in her family, after her mother, Tracy, a 1990 graduate of Immaculata High School (above, with Tracy’s father, Merlin), and her grandmother, Cheryl Tourelle. “The Lord is a big influence for Marley,” says Cheryl. “I attribute this to her Catholic school education, and to her parents who go to Church faithfully.”
© 2013 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc.