Summer is always time for a shift in occupations for the Sisters, as we like to say in the convent.
Rather than teaching every day in the classroom, some of our Sisters now get to run around in the great outdoors with our young people at summer camps throughout the United States and Canada. From lifeguarding at the pool to handing out snacks at canteen, they really do it all—with the help of Jesus and Mary!
Here in this issue, you'll see the variety of places our Sisters have been in this fun-filled summer. You'll also see handwritten cards from our young people sharing with you how much they appreciate the opportunity to attend summer camp.
In these remaining weeks of summer, we hope and pray you are rejuvenated and restored!
Blessings and peace,
P ARTNERS IN GIVIN G
is a bimonthly magazine published by the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco 659 Belmont Avenue
Sacred Heart Center, Newton, NJ sacredheartspiritualitycenter.org
ROSARY FOR VOCATIONS
Sunday, September 29, 2024
Editorial Board
Sr. Christina Chong, FMA, Editor
Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of Development
Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA, Editorial Manager
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.
Cover image: Sister Juliana Alfonso watches over the pool at Mary Help of Christians Summer Camp in North Haledon, NJ.
Fortitude to Persevere in Faith
The third cardinal virtue calls to mind so many people I know, both Salesians and laity, who embody this virtue of fortitude. Fortitude ensures constancy in hard times and tenacity in the pursuit of what is good, making us morally stronger, and giving us the power to resist temptation.
One of the things Christ taught us is the power of storytelling. A quick glance at the Gospel and the numerous parables He told underscores the truth of this assertion. And because I like to spin a yarn, I often tell stories to make my points. So here we go with storytime…
My older sister Eileen is a graduate of MHC Academy. She married Gary, and not long after their third child was born, Gary was diagnosed with cancer. I have such a vivid memory of Eileen at his bedside, leading the recitation of the Rosary…while Gary was moments from dying. Eileen’s strength of faith—her fortitude in the face of this painful situation, was (and remains) an inspiring demonstration of faith in action. As a matter of fact, Eileen began a nightly Rosary recitation during Covid that our family continues to this day. Quite simply, she never wavered in her faith. It was a beautiful, concrete testimony to the strength—the fortitude—of her belief.
Another salient example can be found in the way Sr. Domenica brought her faith to life at her sister’s bedside. Sr. Domenica’s sister was also a Salesian—Sr. Rosalie, whom many of you likely know. During the end of her illness, as Sr. Rosalie’s health was declining, Sr. Domenica spent all of her time, day and night, tending to Sr. Rosalie to make her more comfortable and her passing more peaceful. Sr. Domenica embodied physical fortitude; I saw her at Sr. Rosalie’s bedside from early morning into the wee hours, day after day. Her ability to maintain this level of availability was astonishing for anyone, let alone someone well into her nineties.
Lastly, throughout my childhood, my mother, Honey, demonstrated
fortitude daily. Together with my father, she gave rise to sixteen children. That means she was providing care to more than one baby and toddler—she was overseeing many at once. She used to tell the story of how she was trying to board a plane, going down the gangway, (aptly named for the parade she was leading) with toddlers holding each side of the stroller, a baby riding in the stroller, and an infant in her arms. To top it off, she was pregnant! As she corralled this crew onto the plane, the flight attendant took a few minutes before realizing she had all these kids and was alone, whereupon she stepped in to lend a hand. As Honey recounted this story, she laughed and laughed as she described each of the challenges she had to overcome just to get seated with this crowd of chuckleheads. She found so much humor in it! Her fortitude of will is what used to get her through long days and exhausting experiences like this. Sheer strength of will was never in short supply for Honey. Ever.
Strength of faith is the primary fortitude we need to flourish as practicing Catholics. Strength of body makes accomplishing what needs to get done possible, and strength of will is a critical component that helps us do what doesn’t always feel do-able. Three types of fortitude, all embodied by people I know and love. How lucky am I to have had a front-row seat to these forms of faith-filled fortitude exemplified in those I love? Eileen lives her strength of faith, Sr. Domenica lives her physical strength, and Honey lived her strength of will. Strong women, all leading by their powerful example.
Let’s all try to remember to imbue our lives with the virtue of fortitude. Especially when we feel least capable. If you have a story of fortitude that you would like to share, I invite you to send it to us at partners@ salesiansisters.org. We welcome your stories that can amplify the tales we tell.
I leave you in the heart and hands of Our Lady,
— Sr. Colleen Clair, FMA, is the Superior of the Province of St. Joseph
Honey Clair and Eileen Seeburger
The Salesian Sisters at the Eucharistic Congress
By Sr. April Hoffman, FMA
Sr.
Prior to attending the 10th National Eucharistic Congress from July 17-21, I started to follow the Eucharistic pilgrimage on social media. In the two months leading up to the Congress, our Eucharistic Lord made his way from four different routes starting in California, Minnesota, Connecticut, and Texas. The pilgrimage involved many dioceses along the way, gathering people for processions, Mass, and adoration, and rekindling the unity of the Church around the source and summit of our faith: Jesus truly present in the Eucharist.
The opening session of the Congress began with the pilgrims who had walked with Jesus for the past 60 days accompanying him into Lucas Oil Stadium to be adored by over 50,000 faithful in Indianapolis, IN. There was a tangible sense of awe and hunger for renewal in the silence of those gathered, as we prayed together—and an awareness that this was just the beginning.
Each evening we heard testimonies from those who had been transformed by their encounter with Jesus in the
Eucharist, listened to keynote speakers filled with zeal for his real presence, and joined together to rekindle the fire in our hearts with praise and worship of our Eucharistic Lord present in the monstrance. Every morning we had the opportunity to unite as the body of Christ with the Mass in different languages and rites. It was incredible to see the number of seminarians, priests, bishops, religious sisters and brothers, and families in attendance receiving our Lord with such expectation and reverence.
The days were filled with different breakout sessions and visits to the exhibition hall, where I spent most of my time. Assisting in our Salesian booth was a huge blessing! We were able to encounter so many beautiful souls: past pupils, adopters, families and friends of our Sisters, many with great devotion to St. John Bosco
“There was a tangible sense of awe and hunger for renewal in the silence of those gathered as we prayed together — and an awareness that this was just the beginning.”
and happy to learn about St. Mary Mazzarello and our Salesian Family. They often found us by following the scented bubbles (many of whom had heard Sr. Elfie’s mini-catechesis to spread the sweet fragrance of Christ) and were able to ask and learn about our charism, play games, and pray with the relics of our Salesian Saints.
We also were able to share the story of Don Bosco’s vision of the two columns and his great devotion to Jesus in the Eucharist and Mary, Help of Christians. For me it was truly a time of renewal and revival, recognizing Christ present in my brothers and sisters in need and to respond to the call of the Holy Spirit to set our hearts ablaze with His love and to proclaim it in the world.
Photos on opposite page (clockwise l-r): Visitors to the Salesian Sisters' booth pray in front of the relics of several Salesian saints; Our Lord during the Eucharistic procession; Sr. Kelly Schuster plays with two children at the booth; Salesian Sisters from the Eastern and Western Provinces of the United States and Canada; Inside Lucas Oil Stadium.
Kelly Schuster, Sr. Lise Parent, Sr. Susan Bagli, Sr. Elfie Del Rosario, Sr. April Hoffman, Sr. Joo Yun Park and Sr. Guerline Joseph attended the National Eucharistic Congress.
ADOPT A SISTER
Please Adopt a Sister!
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 your sacrificial gift will support our elderly Sisters. It makes the PERFECT gift, especially for a wedding, birthday, anniversary, First Holy Communion, graduation — or any occasion! Simply complete the form below, call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS, or visit www.salesiansisters.org. Thank you, and God bless you!
Sr. Ramona Beltre with Mary Lou Muller, a volunteer at Sacred Heart Center in Newton, NJ.
A New Friend is Found at the Airport
This Summer there has been so much news about airport delays and cancellations. The Salesian Sisters are not immune to all of that, BUT we do have "special" Guardian Angels!
Following the Jubilee Celebration on July 14, 2024, Sr. Clare Kennelly (relocating to Villa Madonna School for the 2024-2025 school year), Sr.Isabel Garza, and Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza were dropped off at Newark Liberty Airport for their flight to Tampa, FL. Since Sr. Clare was moving from New Jersey to Florida, her vintage 1960's suitcase was filled to the brim. Of course, as Sr. Lou Ann was checking in the luggage the ominous message in red, THIS FLIGHT HAS BEEN CANCELLED, came across the screen.
Sr. Lou Ann stood at the kiosk and frantically began a search for the next available flight when she felt a tap on her shoulder. “Officer Anthony" was taking charge of the situation and brought the three Sisters to the United Airlines Office, carrying Sr. Clare's suitcase all the while. Despite his best efforts and those of the United representatives, there was no flight to be had; so the Sisters called for a ride to our nearby Convent in Kenilworth, NJ, where we spent the night before returning to the Airport in the morning for our flight. Despite all this, our "Guardian Angel," Officer Anthony, never left our side! He remained with us the entire time we were waiting for our ride and a friendship was borne of our time together.
Despite all the angst of that particular trip, we now have a special friend and Angel at Newark Liberty Airport... and he very graciously said he "would do this for anyone!" God bless Officer Anthony and all the TSA and Airport Officers throughout our airports who help to keep us all safe during our travels!
Rosary FOR VOCATIONS
You can still join us for our monthly Rosary for Vocations which takes place the last Sunday of every month at 7:30pm EST. Contact Sr. Elfie: happynun@salesiansisters.com for the Zoom link.
Jubilee Afterglow...
An aura remains, indescribable
Deep and intense
Inundating with joy
And a special unique glow!
Jubilee 2024
Unforgettable
A time to remember
A time to renew promises
A time to ponder
On how it all began
With that insistent call…
A time to rejoice
With those along our life’s path
A time for prayer and thankfulness
A time for music and song
For everything there is a time.
A time for inviting Bishop Manny Cruz and Fr. Jim Heuser, The Indispensable ‘two by two’ for our celebration! These jubilees speak boldly of fidelity, God’s and ours, and that religious life is alive and well.
God still calls and women still answer ‘yes’ as did Mary our Mother, whose name we bear As Daughters of Mary Help of Christians!
Jubilee...Jubilant!
The Salesian Sisters have the recipe for celebrating down to an art! It is a time for rejoicing with family, friends, benefactors, adopters to thank the Lord and Our Mother Mary who accompanied us to this moment.
On the sunny Sunday of July 14, 2024, we gathered in our beautiful St. Joseph Chapel to celebrate where it all began long ago, as Fr. Jim Heuser so eloquently affirmed, “with Jesus who selected us with love; sent us with power; to now sing our gratitude to Him for His fidelity and ours.” This festive event speaks wonderfully of our God’s love for us and our love for Him. Yes, GOD IS ALIVE!
His plan proceeds unhindered today in the lives of all His faithful people amid the challenges that abound. And He answers our prayers, otherwise the Jubilarians would not be celebrating here today, nor would the many young women who have said their "Yes" to Him and “will have their Jubilees many years hence,” as Bishop Manny prophesied. “It will be done with ‘determined determination’ to be faithful, as today’s Jubilarians did and still do. What did these Sisters see?”
WHAT DID EACH OF US SEE?
The FACE of CHRIST… WHO SAID, "FOLLOW ME"!
From Eucharist to agape. The joy-filled gathering took place at the Tides Banquet Hall. It was a time to feast together, a time to share life, a time to make new
memories amid people we love and who love us. A time to take photos, a time to sing out our grace-filled hearts, a time to just be with each other. It was a time to be jubilant, a time to reconnect, a time for laughter, all done at a slower pace. It was a time of peace, of basking in the light of God’s love and faithfulness. A time to renew our trust that prayers are always heard and answered.
God has a plan and we are part of it! A heartfelt message to put the bow on this lovely gift of the Jubilee Celebration, we recall the words of Sr. Mary Rinaldi as she spoke of a small Italian village long ago. The mothers had gathered together to pray to have at least one priestly/religious vocation from among their children. From that town of 3,000 people came 300 vocations (10%). Among those praying was her grandmother who had 12 children. Of these, five boys became Salesian Priests and two girls became Salesian Sisters, and this has not skipped a generation to the present day. One of these priests and one of these Sisters have been beatified.
Our Jubilarians need replacements…so please, pray for vocations to the religious life. God always hears us and always answers! Thank you for the gift of your presence and for the gift of your prayers.
Sr. Mary Terzo, FMA 60 years professed and still counting!
The Jubilarians process out of the chapel at the end of Mass. Bishop Manuel A. Cruz with Sr. Mary Terzo
Fr. Jim Heuser, SDB gives the homily. Sr. Catherine Altamura says a prayer for Sr. Nivia Arias.
Sr. Mary Rinaldi with her family
Sr. Florine Lagace with two students from Mary Help of Christians Academy
The Jubilarian Sisters renew their vows before the assembly.
Making Memories at Summer Camp
Another wonderful Salesian Summer Camp season in the books, thanks to all of YOU! The smiles on the faces of the boys and girls on these pages speak volumes. Thanks to your generosity, hundreds of children enjoyed a safe, fun, and wholesome camp experience! In fact, we were able to, once again, reach our goal of matching a $50,000 donation. Now we march on to the new school year. We hope you all had a fantastic summer!
Clockwise from l-r: Sr. Ramona Beltre assisting the campers at lunch at Mary Help Camp; Sr. Nicole Daly gives swim instruction to a group of campers at Camp Auxilium; Sr. Anne Weis leads the cargo net activity on the upper hill of Camp Auxilium.
Sr. Natasha Roig distributes communion at Mass.
Paddleboating at Mary Help Camp Sr. Domenica Di Peri, Sr. Helene Godin, and Sr. Eileen Joseph pass out candy to campers on "Halloween."
Two Mary Help campers hang out on the playground. Sister Nivia Arias teaches archery at Camp Auxilium.
In their own words, young people at Camp Auxilium and Mary Help Camp share what they love about summer camp! They also showed off their artistic skills with drawings of their favorite activities at camp. What's better than weeks of meeting new friends, playing outdoor sports, dancing, and doing crafts? Practicing the virtue of gratitude!
A Love That Lasts Forever Memorials
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 Occasion
Name – DECEASED
Name – LIVING
Please send an acknowledgement to:
Name
Address
My Name Address
Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope. Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
Received between June 1, 2024 and August 5, 2024
Austin Behrens
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DeVita
Catherine Cronin
Ms. Anne Arthur
Jean the Losen
Ms. Diane Harget
Laura Mannarino
Outreach at Greenbriar
Mr. and Mrs. Alex Arthur
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Moram
Ms. Helen Fallone
Ms. Lynne Caroussos
Mr. James Stauber
Mrs. Marilyn Kreel
Mr. and Mrs. Ray Colelli
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Gekle
Barbara Lembo
Leanna Tumminello
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DeVita
Lucy Proto
Mr. Crispin Proto
Luigi Marciante, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Luigi Marciante
Philip D’Orazio
Mrs. Bernadette D’Orazio
Sr. Agatha Cosentino Anonymous
Tributes
Received between June 1, 2024 and August 5, 2024
Marciante Family
Mr. and Mrs. Luigi Marciante
Sr. Mary Rinaldi 60th Jubilee
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Quinn
Mr. and Mrs. Philip Rinaldi
Ms. Ann Marie Torcicollo
Vocation of Juliana Alfonso
Ms. Ana Aasen
Mae Lopina Birthday
Myrna Balbuena
Sylvia Neri
Olivia Pacana
For First Professions
Joseph M. Goode
Ed Zambrano, Past Pupil and Academic Dean
Edward Zambrano is a past pupil of St. Anthony School in Paterson, NJ. With an academic career spanning over forty-two years, Ed has been a Mathematics Teacher, Curriculum Supervisor, and Assistant Principal in public education. He now brings his gifts to Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ where he has been serving as the Academic Dean since 2016. Partners in Giving asked Ed about what his Salesian education has meant to him.
What school did you attend and what do you remember most from your time there?
I attended Saint Anthony School in Paterson, N.J. Saint Anthony School was very welcoming. The school community represented various ethnic backgrounds, and everyone worked well together. The Salesian spirit was evident. Every activity included time to work together, laugh together, and worship together. There were many celebrations that provided time to get to know each other. Not only did students become life-long friends, but families remain connected today.
Which Salesian Sisters do you remember from your time at Saint Anthony School?
Over my nine years, many Sisters served in our school and parish. My principals were Sr. Frances Gumino, Sr. Catherine Altamura, and Sr. Inez Molano. Sr. Letizia Bocanegra, Sr. Rachel Crotti, and Sr. Joanne Yacone were three of the many Sisters who worked tirelessly and encouraged us to be respectable Catholic citizens. They encouraged us to appreciate our gifts and to share our talents with others.
How did going to a Salesian school shape your future life as an educator?
We were taught about Don Bosco’s Preventive System, and the Sisters followed this system. Seeing its impact, I use it as my guide when making decisions and when interacting with students, parents, and other teachers. I try my best to be proactive rather than reactive. While each encounter brings with it opportunities and challenges, you best represent yourself when each exchange is conducted in a respectful, reasonable, and dignified manner.
In your experience in various schools, how does a Salesian school differ from other types?
Salesian Schools form families that work, play, and pray together. You build everlasting relationships and connections. Having experienced years in both public and now Catholic School education, I can truly say that while both types of schools provide an equal academic opportunity, a Salesian School cannot be matched in its
ability to make everyone feel that you are an integral member of a large faith-based community and family. There is always someone there to welcome you home.
What is your educational philosophy?
All students are capable of learning. This, however, happens at different rates. My job is to utilize methods and strategies that address the variety of learning styles. Students benefit when they are active participants in the learning process and have a teacher who sees his or her role as a facilitator, supports a student as he or she strives for mastery and ultimately, success. The greatest educational outcomes require a collaborative effort by all stakeholders—students, parents, faculty, and administration. It is not only knowledge, but the understanding of your talents that makes you a productive citizen.
Edward Zambrano with students from Mary Help of Christians Academy where he is Academic Dean.
Holy Ground at the Gaga Pit
By Sr. Christina Chong, FMA
If you've ever seen the game of gaga being played, you know well the hyper competitiveness that often accompanies it. Gaga is a variation of dodgeball that takes place inside an octagonal "pit." Players stand in the pit striking a ball (similar to a kickball) with their hands. The goal is to get other people out by hitting them below the knees—so you jump, scamper and dodge out of the way.
It's not the first place you would think of as holy ground. Usually there's squabbling around whether or not the ball really hit the person or complaining because someone feels that they're being singled out by others. You would be wise to have a referee to help manage the intense disputes that often erupt.
But I can honestly say that this summer I had the joy of witnessing holiness in action at the gaga pit. I saw virtue being won among the young!
I had the opportunity to participate at a Holy Family Fest, hosted by the Apostolate for Family Consecration in Bloomingdale, OH. At this week-long experience, each member of the family had the chance to share in a summer camp/retreat tailored just to them. Parents, teenagers, and young kids alike had their own catechetical sessions; and there was also plenty of time for activities like ultimate frisbee, pickleball, arts and crafts and gaga. Each family stayed in a rustic cabin really rubbing elbows and enjoying quality time together.
Here at this wondrous place, I found myself often at the gaga pit simply because I was so edified by what I witnessed. I saw kids, playing fairly, being mindful not to hit too hard to the smaller kids. I saw young people calling themselves out even when no one else noticed. I saw two teenagers who were the last ones standing, battling it out to win; but then deciding to call it a tie so that everyone else could play without having to wait. I saw kids encouraging another and giving each other high fives as they exited the pit.
And in the evening, I witnessed a mother and father walk by the gaga pit calling out for their son—explaining that it was time for dinner. He was in the middle of a close game when he had to make the choice to either obey his parents or pretend like he didn't hear them. I saw him
pause, look at his parents, look back at game, and then quietly leave so as to not make his family late. I knew how much he wanted to finish the game, yet he made the conscious choice to be obedient.
In that moment that young person gave a concrete example of what it means to die to self! He was building virtue at the gaga pit by "doing the right thing, at the right time, for the love of God," as St. Mary Mazzarello would say. Holiness is not often about dramatic moments, but the daily practice of virtue, slowly won through consistent effort and perserverance. Holiness for the young is very much possible!
The gaga pit also displayed how living a life of virtue enables one to live life well. As St. Ireaneus, an early Church father said, “the glory of God is a human being fully alive!” The human virtues "make possible ease, self-mastery, and joy in leading a morally good life. The virtuous man is he who freely practices the good" (Catechsim of the Catholic Church #1804).
Because these young people were playing virtuously, they also played well. No time was wasted in complaining, arguing with others, or throwing tantrums. The gaga pit was in constant motion allowing the young to laugh and play for hours on end.
How often we may think that God's law is oppressive or stifling when really, a life lived virtuously leads to joy. For God "has placed in man a longing for truth and goodness that only he can satisfy" (CCC #2002). By practicing charity we are fulfilling the vocation to holiness to which we are all called.
At the gaga pit, I had a little taste of heaven. How beautiful to see cooperation, generosity, patience, and humility practiced by these kids. May we too make the little choices each day to become more like Christ.
An example of a gaga pit
Photo by: Ryan Dickey, Flickr
Summer is a Time to Grow Holy!
Every summer, Salesian Sisters are sent out to be present at various youth camps around the country. This year, Sr. Elfie Del Rosario and Sr. Lisa Scarduzio, Novice, spent a week with Lifeteen's Camp Hidden Lake, while Sr. Myriam Meus and Sr. Pamela Rose Suresca participated in Damascus - Catholic Youth Summer Camp.
Here, Sr. Lisa shares about her experience with the young people at Lifeteen.
At Camp Hidden Lake I had the opportunity to journey with around 300 high school students from all over the country. These campers participated in muddy/messy games, low and high ropes, lake time, and ziplining. Along with fun camp activities the Catholic faith was deeply rooted in all that took place. The campers experienced talks connected to the camp theme “Sanctuary” as well as adoration, daily Mass, prayer stations, and confession.
I had the privilege of accompanying many campers throughout the week. I participated in the activities as well as the beautiful prayer moments. It was a gift to watch their young hearts be changed by their encounters with Jesus. Many of the campers I talked to at the end of the week said they want to take God back home with them, strengthen their faith, and some even have the desire to begin the process of becoming Catholic! This experience of seeing so many lives changed because of the love of Christ will forever be ingrained in my heart.
Sr. Myriam Meus with the young at Damascus
Sr. Elfie Del Rosario and Sr. Lisa Scarduzio at Lifeteen
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, North Haledon, NJ A group of students and parents from Mary Help of Christians Academy went on a summer tour of London, England and Rome, Italy with their chaperones Sr. Kelly Schuster and Sr. Christina Chong. Beginning in London, the group visited Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the London Eye. They then flew into Rome where they visited the Vatican, getting a tour of the Sistine Chapel and also went underground for a visit to the catacombs. They also saw the famous Spanish Steps, the Colosseum, and the Trevi Fountain. One of the highlights of the trip was going to Mass at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Rome, a holy Salesian place!
• Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2024
In front of the Tower Bridge in London
With the local guide at Buckingham Palace
The Spanish Steps in Rome at night
Visiting St. Peter's Basilica after touring the Vatican Museums
From the Classroom to the Development Office
The Salesian Sisters are delighted to announce that Sr. Katie Flanagan, FMA has been appointed as Associate Director of Development for the Salesian Sisters, Province of St. Joseph. Her ministry as an FMA has been dedicated to enriching the lives of young people through classroom instruction, and campus ministry at St. John Neumann High School in Naples, Florida and Immaculata-LaSalle High School in Miami, Florida. Sr. Katie also currently serves as the Provincial Delegate for Youth Ministry.
In her new position, Sr. Katie will be working closely with Sr. Mary Rinaldi to gain insights into the Development office's operations and goals. Sr. Katie is enthusiastic about this new chapter and looks forward
to traveling with Sr. Mary to meet and express gratitude to the many supporters who have made a profound impact on our mission. We are confident that Sr. Katie’s dedication and passion will greatly contribute to the continued success and growth of our mission to support the work of the Salesian Sisters in serving the young.
Please join us in welcoming Sr. Katie Flanagan to her new role. We are excited to see the positive contributions she will bring to our community and mission.
ACADEMY OF OUR LADY SUMMER CAMP, Marrero, LA Summer Camp was in full swing at Academy of Our Lady! With STEM activities, swimming, arts and crafts, and field trips the campers kept busy both indoors and out. There was even a special color run where dyed powders were thrown on the campers as they raced around the track.
Campers had a blast running through clouds of colored powder and making memories at the color run.
Sr. Janet Keller takes time for a smile with a camper.
Vulnerability is a Seed of Faith
As I write this, there is a “ Real Feel” temperature of 103 degrees in New Jersey. Only for God would I live somewhere that feels like 103 in the summer. Give me winter any day! It is so uncomfortable to be hot and sweaty. I can already hear some of you mumbling, “Offer it up, Sister!”
There is certainly a value in quietly accepting our sufferings and offering them to God for some Divine, although often unknown, purpose, but sometimes I enjoy complaining to God. If he can’t handle my complaining, then end my suffering! Easy solution, Lord! I draw courage for my complaints from Biblical people like Job, Queen Esther, and even Jesus. Job’s friends told him to curse God for his sufferings, but instead he complained to the Lord
“I don’t need to perform a part when I pray; God only asks that I am honest.”
that God had forgotten him and left him to wallow in misery (Job 30:20-31). Queen Esther, when faced with the genocide of her people, realized she was the only one who stood a chance of saving them, but she would have to reveal she was one of them. She was scared and complained to God, “Help me for I am alone!” (Esther 4:1) And we are all familiar with Jesus on the cross, quoting Psalm 22 as he poured out His heart, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46)
Complaint is a valid prayer because we can only complain to God if there is at least a small flicker of belief in our hearts that God cares. Why would I complain to someone who doesn’t care? It’s a waste of breath. Job stated the facts of his situation, but he never cursed God. This exhibited great faith and reverence. Esther was terrified, but added to her complaint, “I have no one but You.” There was a confidence in her words that God could do something about her situation and that confidence made space for God to act. Jesus, of course, was perfect, but He shows us that there is no sin in asking God “Why?”
The other day one of my past pupils texted me. He usually texts me to ask how I am doing when he is having a hard time and wants to talk. He has faced so many
health problems and he felt spiritually dead. When the body suffers, the soul has little energy. Prayer was a chore, reading spiritual things just made him feel irritated. Going into church felt like going on a date with someone who annoyed him. Can anyone relate? I certainly can. I encouraged him to complain to God. In fact, I complained to God about his situation as I was answering his text!
I don’t think God gets tired of our complaints, because we only really vent our deepest grievances with our closest and most trusted friends. I would not sit down and tell someone I barely knew all the things bothering me. Some people do this, but most people do not. When I really open the depths of my misery to God, I become vulnerable. Within that vulnerability is the seed of faith expressed in my confidence that God wants to even hear my voice. I may feel like I have no faith, but in fact in moments like these my faith is probably stronger than when everything is going well. It is easy to say sweet words to the Lord when I have my way and I feel healthy. It is extremely hard to accept suffering, offer it up, and then show God our struggle with it.
I think many of us, me included, were taught a damaged spirituality that makes us think we must conceal from God our struggles, whether from shame (like Adam and Eve), pride (like Judas), or fear of punishment (like the servant in the parable who buried all his talents instead of using them). Suffering has forced me, in my weakness, to let God into my darkest experiences and I have discovered God can handle all my brokenness and anger. I don’t need to perform a part when I pray; God only asks that I am honest.
Certainly, we do not want to become like a husband or wife who only nitpicks their spouse. A relationship cannot only be complaints, but when we do not know where else to begin and we feel we have no other words, starting with, “I am suffering, Lord…” is a good beginning. Job eventually had his misfortunes reversed; Esther conquered the enemies of her people. And to Jesus’ complaint and question of “Why?” God answered on Easter Sunday. Jesus’ resurrection is our constant reminder and encouragement to persevere through the sufferings of life; God will bring good out of it. Although it is often a struggle, may we all have faith that Easter is coming.
The Salesian Sisters Partners Circle was founded by Joseph J. McAleer Sr. in 1991 to provide unrestricted funds for urgent needs in our mission. Your annual contribution to this fund empowers us: To Provide Financial Assistance to the Young People in our Care, and to support Education, Vocations, and Community Life.
There are eight levels of membership, starting at $250. 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? Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you and God bless you!
THE JOSEPH J. MCALEER, SR✝. HERITAGE SOCIETY - MAJOR BEQUESTS
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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 mark a less-than-happy occasion? Our prayer for your special day will commemorate this event. Do you have someone to thank? All of the Sisters will help multiply your gratitude. When you “Give Us This Day” the Sisters will pray for your intention and for the person whose sacrificial gift supports the endowment for our retired Sisters. Let this gift of time be an expression of our concern and love for one another. Know that you are special to us. Thank you, and God bless you!
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco
Province of St. Joseph of the Eastern U.S. & Canada
Participants and team members from this year's Mornese Experience bond on their last day of retreat. For four days, young women learn about the spirituality of St. Mary Mazzarello, co-founder of the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco— reflecting on her life and friendships, sharing in small groups, and taking time to enjoy nature in Newton, NJ.
