P artners in GivinG Late Summer 2022 • www.salesiansisters.org
Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s letter Dear Friends, This summer is certainly flying by! No sooner did we celebrate the end of another wonderful Salesian school year – kudos to the 47 members of the class of 2022 of Mary Help of Christians Academy, adorning our cover – than we headed immediately into Salesian Camp season. Now it’s almost time for the new school year to begin! As the old saying goes, time flies when you are having fun – especially Salesian fun! Some news to report: • After four long years, we are finally ready to open and consecrate the new St. Joseph Chapel on the Mary Help campus! We share some photos on pages 4-5, and there’s still time to make a gift. Watch for a full report of the magnificent new sacred space in the next edition of Partners in Giving. • As mentioned, we completed another successful season of Salesian Summer Camps, thanks to your support. Enjoy the photos on pages 14-15. Blessings to you and your loved ones! And enjoy these waning days of summer. Peace,
PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bimonthly magazine published by the
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office 659 Belmont Ave., N. Haledon, NJ 07508 Telephone: (973) 904-0102 Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS E-mail: partners@salesiansisters.org Website: www.salesiansisters.org Social Media: https://linktr.ee/salesiansisters
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“Missionary Society Salesian Sisters”
• Partners in Giving • Volume 32 • Issue 4
Making history!
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ur former Superior General, Mother Yvonne Reungoat, has received a special honor from Pope Francis! She is one of three women appointed to the Vatican Dicastery for Bishops, which oversees the appointment of bishops around the world – the first time women have been included. “Yes, it’s historic, because until now this dicastery was only made up of cardinals, bishops, and priests,” Mother Yvonne said. “Our responsibility is to study the appointment of bishops in dioceses and meet them when they make their pastoral visits to Rome. I think that the sensitivity of women can be complementary to that of bishops and cardinals.” Congratulations, Mother! We are proud of you!
Editorial Board Dr. Joe McAleer, Editor Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of Development Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA, Editorial Manager Theresa Anderson & Anna Anderson, Copy Editors Federal Tax ID # 22-6043753 © 2022 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc. PRIVACY POLICY:
Your name, address, and other information are held in confidence by our ministry and will never be sold, rented, or given to any other organization. Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Congratulations, Sisters,
on your blessed Jubilees!
Congratulations, Jubilarians! Sr. Joanne Holloman, Provincial Superior (second from right) joins (l-r) Sr. Edna Mary MacDonald, Sr. Anita Durocher, Sr. Hélène Godin, Sr. Mary Arciga, Sr. Mary Louise Mazzocco, and Sr. Pierrette Carpentier.
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ongratulations to our Salesian Sisters, marking jubilees during our Institute’s 150th anniversary year! Their fidelity totals 360 years of loving service and a continued “Yes” to God’s call as Salesian Sisters. On July 10, the Sisters renewed their vows (left) and gathered with family and friends for a festive celebration.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2022 •
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Consecration, at long last, on August 19
Finishing touches as Chapel readies to open
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verywhere we look in the new St. Joseph Chapel there are special touches that encourage devotion and thanksgiving. At long last, the sacred space will be consecrated August 19, the anniversary of the unification and re-naming of our Province in honor of St. Joseph (right). The next edition of Partners in Giving will chronicle the day and much more! Thank you for your generosity and prayers!
Above, workers install the stained-glass window depicting the Eucharist which miraculously survived the fire. At right, St. John Bosco patiently awaits his installation in the chapel!
Our tabernacle, nearly destroyed in the fire (above), has been magnificently restored!
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any have asked how they can be a part of the new St. Joseph Chapel. Thank you! We welcome your gift. Please complete the form below, or call us for more information: (973) 904-0102 or toll-free (877) OUR-NUNS.
Please use the enclosed envelope!
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2022 •
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Sisters, family, and friends gather in thanksgiving
Joyous celebrations for our 150th continue!
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n June 17, the Salesian Sisters hosted a dinner at Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ, for family and friends to mark the 150th anniversary of the founding of our religious order. It was a festive occasion, as you can see from the photos on these pages! It was also a chance for the Sisters to express a gigantic THANK YOU to our generous supporters. We share a letter received from one of our attendees: Dear Salesian Sisters, Thank you for inviting me to your 150th Anniversary dinner. I had a great time. It was beautiful! I have been a part of the Salesian family since my son Ed entered Kindergarten at St. Anthony’s, Paterson. Sr. Francis Gumino was the principal, and I immediately became a class mother. My memories of helping where and when I could are happy ones. My children also attended Don Bosco Tech and Mary Help. Now, all these years later, Ed is once again with the Salesians as a teacher and Dean of Academics at Mary Help. Teaching has always been Ed’s passion and I’m happy that his career continued with the Salesians. So, once again thank you for allowing me to join you in this momentous occasion. I had a ball, seeing so many Sisters having a great time and watching them dance and smile and greet me warmly when they were introduced to me. Being Ed’s mom has been a gift from God, and it keeps on giving!
Sr. Joo Yun Park enjoyed seeing her parents, Yun Hee and Eal Wha Park.
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 32 • Issue 4
May God bless you all and keep you safe and continue your good work in education and faith. Fondly, Dorothea Zambrano What a beautiful letter! We are truly blessed to have friends like Dorothea, and each and every one of YOU!
Sr. Mary Ann Caspary had a wonderful reunion with Hilary Esposito of Waldwick, NJ. Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Salesian Sisters and Novices sing “You Are All Beautiful,” a favorite hymn of our beloved Sr. Rose McShane and a tribute to Our Blessed Mother. Sr. Margaret Wilhelm is the conductor.
Above, time to dance! At right, Sr. Guerline Joseph puts on a show! At left, Sr. Elfie Del Rosario leads the Electric Slide! Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2022 •
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F
ollowing in the footsteps of GIANTS! Thirty years ago, the Salesian Sisters Partners Circle was brand new and untested. When we gathered in Tampa, FL, in November 1992, little did we know how much the group would grow and flourish, providing a vital unrestricted fund to support the Salesian Sisters and their mission. Present at that early gathering – most now gone to their heavenly reward – were (seated, l-r) Joe Tomaino, Sam Pelosi, Paul D’Alessandro, Sr. Carmen Peña, and Lucy Nardella; (standing, l-r) Hon. E.J. Salcines, Sr. Rosalie Di Peri, Joe Garcia, Joseph McAleer, Sr., Barbara Hedgecock, Tony Amato, Rosemarie D’Alessandro, Bill McLaughlin, Dr. Jack Guggino, Dr. Vincent Bagli, Phil LoCicero, and Charles Fletcher. Sr. Mary Rinaldi took the photo! Annual membership over the past 31 years has helped the Salesian Sisters fund student financial assistance, brick and mortar projects throughout the Province, and Vocation programs, to name a few. There are 8 levels of annual membership, as seen on the following pages. Please join us and be part of the mission in action! Thank you!
Yes! I wish to join the Partners Circle!
Please use the enclosed envelope. Thank you!
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he Salesian Sisters Partners Circle was founded in 1991 to provide unrestricted funds for urgent needs of the Salesian Sisters and their mission. These include support for capital needs, scholarship assistance, technology upgrades, and funds for those unforeseen situations that require immediate attention (such as during the COVID-19 pandemic). Your annual contribution to this fund empowers the Sisters to continue their mission: To Provide Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and to the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life. The fire which destroyed St. Joseph’s Chapel in North Haledon, NJ, in 2018 underscored the vital importance of the Partners Circle Fund, enabling the Sisters to respond quickly in an emergency and begin the rebuilding process.
31st
There are 8 levels of membership, starting at $250, which are listed on these three pages. PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees, a group of talented lay people who advise the Sisters on distribution of the fund. Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group as we celebrate our 31st anniversary? Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS, or complete the form on the opposite page. Thank you and God bless you!
The Joseph J. McAleer, Sr. Heritage Society Major Bequests FLORIDA Dorothy & Dr. Vincent Bagli Josie & Ray Campo Anne & Joseph Garcia Ann Lowry Murphey Angel Oliva Family The Dorothy Thomas Foundation
NEW JERSEY Tony Amato Family The Carini Family Mr. Anthony Petrocelli Ms. Roberta Ruocco Ms. Celeste Tripi Mr. Vincent Waraske
Partners Circle “Partners” Annual gift of $5,500
FLORIDA Mr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor Ms. Caroline Barnhill Lydia & John Oliva Susan & Jeff Turner --NEW JERSEY Joseph Batelli Al Daloisio, Jr. Anthony & Geraldine Dell’Orto Maria L. Lopez Mr. Bill McLaughlin Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer Joseph & Rita Weiner
INDIANA Mr. & Mrs. Judson Church --NEW YORK Mr. John Cassara Beruta & James Dell’Orto --VIRGINIA Mr. & Mrs. Greg Mueller
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Welcome
84
new or upgraded Partners Circle Members in 2022! Shown in RED
Partners Circle “Stewards” Annual gift of $11,000 FLORIDA Sherry Millar --NEW JERSEY Anonymous
Partners Circle “Friends” Annual gift of $3,300
CONNECTICUT Mary Bridget Gaine --FLORIDA Idalia Lastra Barket --MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair PC
NEW JERSEY Chris & Gemma Chong Frank & Rosemary Lupo Family --NEW YORK Mr. & Mrs. Paul Cangro --PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow
Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2022 •
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Partners Circle “Founders”
Annual gift of $2,200
CONNECTICUT Christina & David McAleer PC --DELAWARE Maria Sturchio --FLORIDA Anne & John Bedlek Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Clark John & Pat Connors Anthony & Diana Ekonomou Mrs. Kathleen Medore NEW JERSEY Mr. Robert Eliseo Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann Mr. & Mrs. Anthony M. Laino Marilyn & Dale Livi
Mr. Joseph Massood The O’Halloran Family Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Papetti Andrelisa Michel & Michael Russo --NEW YORK Jordon Carroll Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala --PENNSYLVANIA In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA --SOUTH CAROLINA Tom & Laurie Aldinger
Partners Circle “Benefactors”
Welcome new or upgraded members in Red! PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees.
Annual gift of $1,100
John & Diann Pinkowski ARIZONA Jo Ann & Joseph Caracappa PC Mrs. Eileen Seeburger Rudy Rodriguez Mrs. Ann Marie Forster Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Silveri --------TENNESSEE GEORGIA CALIFORNIA PENNSYLVANIA Mr. Leonard V. Ingrando Mr. Robert Reiter Mary & Robert Obenberger Msgr. Robert Carroll --Diane Onken Dr. Allyson & Mr. Kevin Hardy MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Donald Onken Mr. & Mrs. Neil Holmes --Deirdre Kelleher COLORADO Mr. & Mrs. Ted Reading Jamie & Paul Condit Annual gift of $825 ----NEW JERSEY CONNECTICUT VIRGINIA Mrs. Theresa Cannarozzi Linda & Peter Christiansen PC CONNECTICUT Dr. Evelyn Garcia Ms. Debi F. Debiak, Esq. Mr. Michael Guarnieri PC Dr. Joe McAleer PC & Michael Maurer Fabrizio & Barbara Zichichi Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Della Cerra --Mr. & Mrs. Martin Flemming FLORIDA Mr. & Mrs. Tom Furey FLORIDA Declan & Shelly Mansfield Joseph & Claudine Caballero PC Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell Anne & Fred Michaels Miss Mary Jean Hayek Mrs. Patricia Driscoll Rene & Phyllis Rodriguez James Construction Co., Inc. Maria Restrepo Forte Mr. & Mrs. Terry Wood Michael & Mary Losurdo Dr. Giacomo & Judy Guggino --Mrs. Faith Menard Aida Yglesias Jurado NEW JERSEY Mary Ann Munson Greg & Lori Korte Joseph W. Dr. & Mrs. Wayne Obetz Barbara & Jim Major & Kathleen Buckley Robert & Constance Sumas Mr. & Mrs. Frank Middendorf Mr. & Mrs. Greg Scott Mrs. Carolyn Young Robert Nocek Theresa E. Unanue --Mr. & Mrs. Rob Obbink --NEW YORK Ms. Marianne O’Doherty INDIANA Mr. Silvio Alfeo Mr. Fredy Padovan Sandra M. Freeman Ms. Lea Battiato Gene & Linda Perez
Partners Circle “Associates”
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 32 • Issue 3
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Partners Circle “Members” CALIFORNIA Joanne & Geraldine Rizzuto --CONNECTICUT Mr. & Mrs. Edward F. Goin Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey --FLORIDA Dr. Kenneth Alonso Theresa & Mark Anderson Mrs. Bernadine Ayer Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr. PC Mrs. Liana Baldor, in memory of Ana Maria & Carlos Sr. Mr. & Mrs. Rick Caldevilla PC Dr. Stephanie A. Canada Mrs. Trudy Carey Mr. & Mrs. Charles Corces, in memory of Charles J. Corces Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria Manny & Aggie Fernandez Mrs. Leslie Garcia PC Joseph Phillip, Jr. & Julia Jones Mr. James D. Leone Kelly Barcia Nunez PC Mark & Heidi Oliva PC Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds Alina M. Roces Rudy Rodriguez Hon. & Mrs. E.J. Salcines Mrs. Joan M. Smith Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Tomaino Ron Yates --GEORGIA Mr. Charles Fantauzza Mrs. Brooke McDonald --ILLINOIS The Mills Family --INDIANA Andrea Dealynn --LOUISIANA Mr. & Mrs. George LeBlanc --MARYLAND Adrienne & Albert Marra --MASSACHUSETTS Ms. Josephine Petrillo NEW JERSEY Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Amatuzzi Tiziana Anello, M.D.
Mrs. Rose Bielicki Mrs. Regina Calcagno Mr. & Mrs. James Cavaluzzi Mary Joan Collison Larry & Mary Anne Condit Mr. & Mrs. Andrew J. Dunn Mr. & Mrs. Michael Ferrito Dr. & Mrs. Lou Gambetta PC Joann Giamonco Teresa Gutto Vivian Isenberg Mr. James Lane Laura Cosentino Mannarino George & Jeannie Pavlik Mrs. Christine Peragallo Twinkie & Michael Polizzi PC NEW YORK Michael & Jeanette Altamura Mr. & Mrs. Jack Betwarda Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Clair
Annual gift of $550
Mr. & Mrs. Brian Clair Mrs. Rose Mary Clair Ms. Kate Clair Ms. Claire Dell Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski The Esposito Family --Mr. & Mrs. Paul R. Gerardi SOUTH CAROLINA Mr. & Mrs. Robert M. Greene Mackenzie Clair Ms. Lena Huang --Mr. Walter Lazarcheck TENNESSEE Mr. Joseph V. Miressi Mr. Terence P. Clair Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec ----TEXAS NORTH CAROLINA Dr. Elizabeth Sledden Dybell Mr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard ----VIRGINIA OHIO Mrs. Dominique Faust Dale & Lynda Kovach Mr. Michael L. Mannoia In memory of Karl Zauner Mr. Fred Mastrogiovanni --Ginnie Stidham WASHINGTON --Mr. Keiran C. Clair PENNSYLVANIA Joseph & Joyce Boyle
Partners Circle “Quarter Century Club” Annual gift of $250
CALIFORNIA Jeanann Davis Patrick & Kasia Gorman Rev. Paula T. Webb --CONNECTICUT Anonymous Mrs. Eileen G. Hahnenkratt Mrs. Concetta Luppino Mr. Patrick J. Waide, Jr. --DELAWARE Mr. & Mrs. Stevan Csanady --FLORIDA Kurt & Laura Badertscher Jon & Michelle Barry Amanda Clair Marilyn Collins Brig. Gen. & Mrs. Thomas V. Draude, USMC-Ret. Mr. & Mrs. Patrick C. Duffy Mr. & Mrs. Edward Gomez, Jr. Amy & Kevin Jarman Mr. & Mrs. Richard Lebron Mr. & Mrs. John Mangin Joan Palmer John & Pauline Pedrero Mr. and Mrs. Paul Schmid
Mrs. Raymetta Stowers Jim & Rita (Zoppo) Vietmeier --ILLINOIS Rangel Family --MARYLAND Arina O. Grossu PC --NEW HAMPSHIRE Mr. & Mrs. Thomas DiMicelli --NEW JERSEY John Capeci PC Julie Caucino Collins & Hogan Families Mr. & Mrs. Donald Cronrath Mr. & Mrs. David Hess Msgr. Raymond Kupke Theodore & Lynda Leo Mr. & Mrs. Lindsay Logue Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Nowak Mrs. Mary Ann Ryan Anna & Richard Spalckhaver Maura & Michael Testa Mr. Eugene Veltri Mr. Edward M. Zambrano
NEW YORK Mr. Patrick Clair Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Collison Mr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio Maria DaGrossa-Hanna PC Megan & J.T. Hunt Ms. Peggeann Larywon Mrs. Carolyn Mesler Madeleine & Rene Perrin PC --NORTH CAROLINA Chester & Monica Michewicz --OHIO Anonymous --PENNSYLVANIA Bernadette & Fred Cairoli Mr. & Mrs. William Hayes --SOUTH CAROLINA Elizabeth Craig & Michael Reeves, Jr. Ed & Luciann Slomkowski --VIRGINIA Mr. & Mrs. Michael Deighan Wanda & Michael Pomatto
Please “Give Us This Day”!
An exchange of love
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o you have a happy occasion you would like to share? The Salesian Sisters will celebrate with you for an entire month. Is it a time to mark a less-than-happy occasion? Our prayer will commemorate this event in your life. Have you someone to thank? All of us will help multiply your gratitude to that special person. Is there a special person or event to bring to the attention of your friends? Then please “Give Us This Day”! Any event, person, or situation that needs special attention will be posted on the 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 love be an example of our concern for one another. As summer continues, know that you are special to us. Our prayers rise daily for you and your dear ones. Thank you, stay safe, and God bless you!
Give Us This
Day
Sr. Judith Suprys presents Sr. Anna Ragogna with her birthday cake on May 13. She’s 90 years young!
Please give us this day/these days in 2022 or 2023 in honor of my special request(s):
Please detach and mail this form in the enclosed envelope. Thank you!
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 32 • Issue 4
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Dear Friends: A message from Sister Joanne
At last we can say, “Welcome home!”
W
hen my younger sister got married, she and her husband decided to have a house built. While I was home for my family visit, I would notice that my sister and brother-in-law would check the progress of the house frequently; sometimes even more than once a day! They wanted to make sure that their house was being built to their specifications and that no corners were being cut. After all, this would be their family home. Once their house was completed and they moved in, 91 Abby Court became the frequent address for various celebrations, family gatherings, and holidays. It was truly a home where everyone, even people we didn’t know, were welcome.
words, I thought that perhaps our Lord was asking us as a Province to do the same thing. He wants us, the Province of St. Joseph, to rebuild His Church! “When St. Francis gazed upon the ruins of the San Damiano chapel, he must have felt the same kind of distress and emotions we experienced as we looked at pictures of the now-destroyed chapel, and now stand outside of the caution tape around St. Joseph Chapel. The invitation to rebuild is both overwhelming and bittersweet. New beginnings bring new opportunities, but they also require us to let go of what was so that we can envision what will be.
“Stone by stone, St. Francis, rebuilt the little chapel in Assisi into the This scenario of the building of symbolic home of his budding my sister’s home is exactly what Franciscan community. We, the we, the Salesian Sisters, have been Salesian family, will rebuild our doing these past years as we have St. Joseph Chapel as the home of waited “patiently” for our Chapel of our Province gatherings and the St. Joseph to be built here in North center of Mary Help of Christians Haledon, NJ. It has been more than Academy. It will not be an easy task four years since the devastating fire, and it will take all our prayers and and it has taken us that long to go Mother Mary Mazzarello is ready support, but we know, as St. John through all the necessary procedures to enter our new Chapel! Bosco often told us, that a three-ply to get to the point of having an cord is stronger than one string by itself. Together opening day where we can once again welcome our we can turn this tragedy into an opportunity for family and friends to our home. renewal and unity. Together we can ‘rebuild His Church!’” These past four years contained not only lessons in how architects and engineers work their magic to It is my hope and prayer that we are not the same as create a new building, but many more valuable lessons we were four years ago, and that during the journey of to carry us forward. It gave the Sisters and me a chance these four years, we have rebuilt the Church of Christ to reflect that the Church is not just a building, but that by becoming more charitable, more compassionate, we, the people, are the Church. and more merciful – and now we have a home! In May 2018 I wrote the following to the Sisters: Going forward, our Chapel at 659 Belmont Avenue will be the place for all our special gatherings and “The outpouring of prayer and concern at the celebrations. In the name of the Salesian Sisters, news of our Chapel being destroyed by fire was I welcome you back to OUR HOME. tremendous. We were able to sense the real meaning of ‘Church.’ As I looked at what remained of the – Sr. Joanne Holloman, FMA, is the Superior charred chapel, I thought of the words St. Francis of the Province of St. Joseph heard: ‘Rebuild my Church!’ As I reflected on these Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2022 •
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Villa Madonna, Tampa, FL!
A Love That Lasts Forever 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.
Luigi Marciante, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Luigi Marciante
Joan Fontanella Mrs. Lucia Cardona
John Markowski Mr. & Mrs. Joseph DeVita
Patrick Miller Mrs. Maggie Dominguez
Peter & Marie Bisceglia Mr. & Mrs. Donald V. Roach
Lucy Proto Mr. Crispin Proto
Carol A. Messina Mr. & Mrs. John Rich
Name – DECEASED
Andrew & Barbara Jackson Ms. Susan L. Gruber
Anthony Polizzi Ms. Rosalie & Grace Polizzi
Name – LIVING
Onni Marie Balis Mrs. Linda Balis
Donald Vagell Ms. Doris V. Loverich
Skip Fernicola Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Quinn
Marge Borlase Ms. Mary Minsker
Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of: ____ $20
Memorial for Tribute for
Received between June 4 and August 1, 2022 Anthony Chiodo Mr. & Mrs. John C. Laurenzi
Give the gift that lasts forever.
____ $25
Memorials
____$15
$
Occasion Please send an acknowledgement to: Name Address My Name Address
Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope. Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
Nancy B. Weiss Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Quinn
Tributes Received between June 4 and August 1, 2022 Sr. Mary Arciga, FMA, 65th Anniversary Dr. Montserrat Ayala-Ramirez Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA Mrs. Tina Tirella
William Balis Mrs. Linda Balis Theresa Anderson & Joseph Anderson Dr. Joe McAleer
“My mother has been gifted with 97 years on this earth. If we tried to characterize her journey, we could simply say that she always chose to see things in a positive way. With her, there were no insurmountable problems, just solutions! “She never managed a big company, but knew how to manage a large family of eight children, including my late sister Diane, who was also a Salesian Sister. She displayed great creativity. In fact, at times she performed miracles with a limited budget. She was an excellent seamstress; we wore the ‘Gisele’ line of clothing. “The center of her life was her family: her children and
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her beloved Roland (my father). While asked how she could love more than one child at a time, she simply answered, ‘With each new child in a family, love is not divided, it is multiplied.’ “She loved people. When the family nest became empty, she monitored children at recess time in a nearby school. She worked in retail, tried her skills in cross country skiing, and volunteered many hours in the parish. She loved simple things, like spending time talking together while working on a puzzle. She was always ready to challenge family members and friends to a good game of Skip-Bo. Her sense of humor was outstanding. For her a good laugh was the salt of life. “We will truly miss her, but we know that she is still ‘watching us from Heaven,’ and that one day we will all be together again! Rest in Peace, Gisele.”
BACK IN THE DAY
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isele Trepanier Godin, mother of Sr. Hélène Godin, passed away on June 17, 2022. She was 97. Sr. Hélène writes:
ot so very long ago, Salesian Sisters did not drive. Sr. Jane Sanchez was the first Sister to obtain a driver’s license, back in the 1950s. The local bishop needed help evangelizing the Hispanic Catholic community in Passaic, NJ, not far from the Sisters’ convent, and contacted the Sisters, who eagerly hit the road! Sr. Jane is seated behind the wheel of the first car owned by the Province, as Sr. Stella Ruiz and excited Passaic residents look on.
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2022 •
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Now more than ever
Please Adopt a Sister!
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specially in these uncertain times, please consider joining our friends of all faiths who have experienced the transforming power of prayer and loving friendship with a Salesian Sister, every day of the year, through our Adopt a Sister Program. Whether the Adopted Sister is for yourself, a family member, or a friend in need of spiritual strength, you will find comfort knowing that your intentions will be remembered each day by your spiritual prayer partner. And it makes the PERFECT gift, especially for a wedding, First Holy Communion, Confirmation, birthday, anniversary – any occasion! Please complete the form below, visit us online at www.salesiansisters.org, or call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you, and God bless you!
The community of Tampa, FL celebrated Sr. Mary Louise Mazzocco’s birthday on May 24 with cake and well wishes. Sr. Anne Weis can barely contain her excitement as Sr. Mary Louise blows out her candles!
CVV: _____________
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 32 • Issue 4
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Ready to cut the cake are (l-r) Sr. Florine Lagace, Sr. Rachel Lauristen, Sr. Eileen Joseph, Sr. Francine Guilmette, Sr. Mary Bertha Paquin, Sr. Molly Heine, Sr. Isabel Garza, Sr. Karen Dunn, Sr. Mary Rinaldi, and Sr. Marisa DeRose.
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n June 4, Salesian Sisters, alumni, and friends gathered at St. Anthony’s Church in Elizabeth, NJ, for a special Mass to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Salesian Sisters. Most of the Sisters present had taught at St. Anthony’s School before 1992, and one, Sr. Arlene Rubino, graduated from the school, class of 1962. Fr. Timothy Zak, SDB, Provincial, was the main celebrant of the Mass, assisted by Fr. José Gamba, Pastor of St. Anthony’s. Frank Malta, representing alumni of the first graduating class (1962), spoke in the name of all the alumni. After Mass, Frank Mazza, Councilman, presented the Sisters with a proclamation from J. Christian Bollwage, Mayor of Elizabeth. A heartwarming reception in the school cafeteria was a time for reminiscing and sharing memories of the good old days at St. Anthony’s. Special thanks to all the committee members who worked so hard to prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime event! – Sr Isabel Garza, FMA
Proud St. Anthony’s alumni enjoyed visiting with the Salesian Sisters, including past teacher Sr. Karen Dunn (below).
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nother fantastic Salesian Summer Camp season is in the books! The smiles on the faces of the boys and girls on these pages speak volumes. Hundreds of children enjoyed a fun, safe, and wholesome camp experience in New York, New Jersey, Louisiana, and Florida, thanks to your generosity. In fact, we were were able to, once again, reach our goal of matching a $50,000 donation. Now we march on to the new school year!
SALESIAN SCHOOLS !
ST. FRANCIS DE SALES HIGH SCHOOL, Columbus, OH – The Salesian Sisters were honored to attend the installation of Bishop Earl K. Fernandes as the 13th bishop of the Diocese of Columbus, and the first American bishop of Indian descent. Joining the new bishop are Sr. Guerline Joseph, Sr. Loretta DeDomenicis, Sr. Joo Yun Park, and Sr. Monique Huart. Pope Francis calls Bishop Fernandes a man “of strong faith and good character” – and we agree!
SALESIAN YOUTH CENTER/BOYS & GIRLS CLUB, Tampa, FL – Summer at the Salesian Youth Center was so much fun with six – count ‘em, 6 – sets of twins in attendance! Sr. Janet Keller brought four pairs out to the new Pavilion and Renovation Construction area on the Villa Madonna/SYC campus to see what was happening. “Who wants to play basketball?” she asked. The hands went up in the air so fast! They talked and talked about how excited they are to be able to play basketball, kickball, soccer, and play on the playground after the project is complete. “We are waiting and waiting, but they tell us it will take a little longer” said twin 7-year-olds Jarvis and Jakari Lynch. Please help us finish this project! Naming opportunities are available. For more information, please contact Theresa Anderson: (813) 205-3195 or visit www.villapavilion.com. Thank you!
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• Partners in Giving • Volume 32 • Issue 4
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Salesian School Alumni Spotlight
Villa twins earn a “mega” share of life lessons
H
ot diggity dog! Villa Madonna School twins Robert and Russell Groscurth, class of 2013, hail from a food concession business family that caters fairs and events all over the country. Their grandfather invented the first “Superdog Corn Dog” in 1954 by putting two hot dogs on a stick. Continuing the family business, Rusty and Norine, parents of the twins, often brought their famous 18-inch “Mega Dogs” to Villa Madonna in Tampa, FL, for school events.
others throughout day-to-day life,” Robert says. “This way always evident during Sr. Mary Jackson’s basketball tournaments at lunchtime.” “The values I picked up through the Sisters still apply to my life today,” Russell adds. “Throughout high school and college, I always had my eye set on any chance to volunteer and help the community. These same principles were a driving force in my career path. I have the privilege of a job that affects the care of millions of patients throughout the U.S. I always try to be as considerate and responsible as I can.”
The brothers attended Jesuit High School in Tampa, then went their separate ways for college: What are you Robert most grateful to Florida for from your Gulf Coast Villa days? University, and “I am most Russell to Florida grateful for the State University. Today, Russell and Robert Groscurth with Sr. Clare Kennelly, and today. teachers and Sisters who Russell is a Technical I was able to become close Services Engineer at Epic Systems, a health care software with during my time at Villa, because some of those company, far from home in Madison, WI. Robert works relationships have lasted into my adulthood and will in the family business and also with Storm Services, an last for years to come,” Robert says. “It is comforting to emergency services natural disaster recovery business. know these amazing people will always have your back Partners in Giving recently caught up with the duo, now and be there for you.” 23, to reminisce about their time at Villa Madonna. “In the Middle School age group, I feel like so many children struggle with not being heard,” Russell notes. How did Villa Madonna prepare you for the future? “All of the Villa teachers did a great job of listening to “Villa gave me a strong faith and moral-based our perspectives, making us feel valued.” foundation that I could grow and develop my own personality upon,” Robert says. “Growing up, we were Do you have a favorite Villa Madonna memory? always taught to push ourselves to get out and try new “The school play!” Russell says. “I remember in the experiences. Moving halfway across the country is just seventh grade being the Old Who in Seussical the another step on this path – although hopefully this Musical and feeling like I was a star.” journey eventually brings me back to Tampa!” “Definitely Octoberfest!” Robert adds. “It was “Villa helped root my life in faith and respect,” always a well-needed change of pace during the year and adds Russell. “Through countless activities and events a great opportunity for students, faculty, and parents to around campus, Villa taught me to step out of my spend time in a relaxed, fun-filled environment.” comfort zone, work hard and do my best even if the task at hand is difficult.” Will corn dogs return to Villa Madonna soon? “Hopefully in the very near future!” Robert says Did Villa Madonna also nurture your faith? with a smile. “The Sisters demonstrated how faithful adults should carry themselves and the proper way to treat – Anna Anderson, Villa Madonna class of 2019 Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
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SALESIAN SCHOOLS !
IMMACULATA–LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, Miami, FL – Our ADMA Youth (Association of Devotees of Mary Help of Christians, Youth Section) led the traditional May Rosary and Crowning for their peers, joined by Sr. Myriam Meus. In true Salesian tradition, you can’t have a spiritual celebration without a treat, so they ended the celebration with a delicious cake, shared by all.
SALESIAN YOUTH CENTER/BOYS & GIRLS CLUB, Tampa, FL – The “Think Big for Kids” program gives teens the skills necessary to put together a resume, and teaches them how to dress and prepare for a job interview. Above, a trained volunteer worked closely with SYC teens to give them the best shot at a bright future.
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, North Haledon, NJ – For the first time in Academy history, two students qualified for the Forensics Grand National Tournament in Washington, DC: team captain and senior Maya Watters, and freshman Lillian Kopacz. Maya competed in Oral Interpretation of Literature, and Lillian in Dramatic Performance. Lillian advanced to the first level of the finals. Competition was fierce! We are so proud of both and their outstanding work!
On the Journey with Sister B
Paper airplane in hand, the sky’s the limit
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hen was the last time you made a paper airplane? This summer I was asked to lead a science activity at summer camp and, desperate for an inexpensive activity, I happened upon a science lesson about aerodynamics using recycled paper to make paper airplanes. Seeing as there is always an abundant amount of paper around just waiting to go to recycling, I knew this would be a $0 activity with great payout. Rusty though my paper airplane skills were, a few practice planes brought back the muscle memory of how to fold the best planes for maximum hangtime.
finally she hit a wall and said to me, “I just can’t do it! I can’t get it to work! It’s nothing but failure! I’m a failure.” Her outburst was a stark contrast to her immense creativity, so I looked at her and said, “You have not failed! You were creative, you adapted, you tried things no one else dared to try. You thought outside of the box, using everything I told you about airplane design, as a real inventor and a scientist. You are anything but a failure.” Through teary eyes she looked up at me, a glimmer of hope sparkling through. I handed her one more piece of paper. “Sometimes the difference between utter defeat and victory is one more try. Give it one more go, Sara. You can do this.”
My greatest pleasure was seeing the 12-year-old girls stride into the room, the ones who could not be bothered with a science lesson and paper I saw a small smile form and, with a deep airplanes, melt into squeals and giggles. breath in, Sara folded another airplane Sometimes the They hopped around the room tossing with a determination in her eyes that told paper airplanes as crazed competitors, difference between me, this time, she would do it. She tossed eager to win the sticker I promised her airplane – it went in the target! victory and defeat Victory! them if they designed an airplane that they could get through a large open is just one more try. I cannot help but admire Sara and what target I had made for the campers. Everyone made it, including one she achieved, which to some would camper who made a great impression upon me: Sara. seem so insignificant. It reminded me of why what we do as Salesian educators is so important, because we Sara was an engineering genius. Whereas others have so many opportunities to empower our students followed my basic dart design, she thought outside and campers and help them become stronger adults of the box. She added weight to her plane by adding and more confident in themselves. “cargo” in the form of crayons to the bottom of the plane. She taped on paper clips to balance the As I left camp that day, I pondered what I had told Sara load. She bent the wings this way and that. She and wondered where it had come from. Who had told constantly experimented with designs, failing to get me that the difference between utter defeat and victory her plane through the target, but did not give up. She is sometimes just one more try? Someone taught me intentionally chose a more challenging path, instead of that, and now I taught her that, just like I passed down the easy way; that impressed me. the art of the paper airplane, another skill I hope we keep teaching for generations to come. As the activity period was nearing the end, she still had not succeeded in sinking the target, but had created so – Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA, many interesting designs that I was incredibly amazed. is the Social Media Coordinator for the Province and Her perseverance was legendary, but, as we all do, she Editorial Manager of Partners in Giving. Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
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Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Province of St. Joseph of the Eastern U.S. & Canada Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397
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oy and wonder are in the air as Sr. Janna San Juan shares her furry friend, a piglet from the petting zoo, part of the summer camp fun at Academy of Our Lady in Marrero, LA. More than 300 campers from over 60 surrounding schools enjoyed swimming, arts and crafts, games, and Good News in a safe, wholesome, and fun setting.