AUTUMN 2026
A PUBLICATION OF THE SALESIAN SISTERS OF ST. JOHN BOSCO
Dear Friends, The leaves are beginning to change here in New Jersey, painting the landscape in rich and beautiful colors. With the change of seasons comes a flurry of activity as we begin a new school and ministry year! Be sure to check pages 10-11 to see where your Sisters are serving this year. You can get to know a bit about the six new women we welcomed into our communities as they discern whether God is calling them to become Salesian Sisters. Meanwhile, our Sisters in leadership gathered for our Provincial Chapter, prayerfully seeking the Spirit’s guidance for our mission and the young people we serve. Finally, take a look at our upcoming Marian Pilgrimage in April, and prayerfully consider joining us for this special journey with Our Lady. Thank you for being our faithful friends through every season. Please know we always carry you in our prayers!
PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bimonthly magazine published by the
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco 659 Belmont Avenue North 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 Federal Tax ID: 22-6043753 © 2026 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc.
Save the Date! ROSARY FOR VOCATIONS Sunday, November 29, 2026 Sunday, December 27, 2026 COME & SEE for Women ages 18-30 November 12–15, 2026 NJ December 3–6, 2026 NJ SISTERS' CHRISTMAS PARTY Sunday, December 6 2026 doors open at 10:30am
Editorial Board Sr. Christina Chong, FMA, Editor Sr. Katie Flanagan, 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: Sister Sadeh Abed Alnour celebrates with freshman during Homecoming Week at Immaculata-La Salle High School in Miami, FL.
A MESSAGE FROM SISTER COLLEEN
St. John Bosco's Preventive System: A Practical Model
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ome months ago, Sister Helene Godin told a sweet story about a boy who stole a sheep. I decided to research it for this installment. It’s the tale of two brothers living in a shepherding village years ago. They were caught stealing sheep and, according to the rough custom of their culture, each had the letters “ST” (Sheep Thief) branded—like cows are—on his forehead. One brother, unwilling to live in this small town and face his shame daily, left home and wandered for the rest of his life, never putting down roots. Everywhere he lived, the meaning of the letters branded on his forehead was eventually revealed; he felt each time that he needed to move on. Sadly, he lived as an outcast all his days. His brother, on the other hand, tried to make amends. He remained in his village and attempted to live a blameless life. In this effort, he became a caring neighbor and a trusted friend. He lived to a ripe old age and was dearly loved by neighbors near and far because of his goodness. Long after the theft occurred, a visitor to the village asked a local resident what those letters, “ST”, on the good old man's forehead meant. The villager thought for a while. Everyone had long since forgotten the true meaning of the letters. Finally, the man replied, “I think the letters stand for ‘saint’.”
Sister Helene Godin interacts during lunchtime with students from St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples, FL.
This village’s brutal way of teaching a harsh lesson to these boys had a 50% success rate: one brother chose to live a life dedicated to others to atone for his earlier misdeeds; the other brother, instead, avoided facing the consequences of his sin and failed to settle down, start a family, and build a happy life for himself. What a shame… Harsh punishments are one teaching method. Our approach is different—and it’s better. The Salesian Preventive System emphasizes reason, religion, and loving kindness. It is unique in that it ensures each student feels loved, even when they are being disciplined for their mistakes. No misstep is unforgivable; no student ever feels like they have failed. They know we love them, that is why we correct them. As Don Bosco said, “It is not enough for you to love the young. They must KNOW they are loved.” The Salesian Preventive System helps kids avoid mistakes in the first place, understanding that they may slip from time to time. Our Constitutions discuss this directly: “Salesian loving-kindness… allows God’s love to shine through us, and is a reflection of Mary’s motherly goodness. Thus it…[lets] us… welcome young people with that warm, sincere affection that gives them the joy of knowing that they are personally loved…” (Article 14) The reformed brother in the story above (later presumed to be a saint by his friends) achieved what we seek to effect through our Preventive System. All this love surrounding our students proves fruitful over time, helping them grow in holiness, in alignment with our Constitutions, which target helping young people to “... mature in unselfish love, through a purity that is radiant and liberating.” (Article 14) We use the Preventive System daily to cultivate sainthood in the young and in all the members of our Salesian Family! Sr. Colleen Clair, FMA, is the Provincial of St. Joseph Province Autumn 2026 • Partners in Giving • 3
PROVINCIAL CHAPTER
Clockwise from top left: Salesian lay collaborators participate in the entrance procession for Mass; youth delegates for the Province; The Sisters vote with colored cards to signal their agreement on key proposals; Sister Suzanne Dauwalter, Sister Teresa Gutierrez, Sister Réjeanne Asselin, Sister Marisa De Rose, Sister Elfie Del Rosario, and Sister Theresa Samson recreate together playing cards; Sister Colleen Clair, Provincial, with elected delegate Sister Marisa De Rose and substitute Sister April Hoffman.
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PROVINCIAL CHAPTER The assembly of participants at the Provincial Chapter
Provincial Chapter: Guided by the Beatitudes
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rom October 8 - 12, representatives from each of the communities of the Province of St. Joseph gathered for a time of reflection, assessment, and discernment. This gathering, known as a Provincial Chapter, occurs once every six years and is a time of immediate preparation for the worldwide General Chapter beginning in September 2027. Holding up the Beatitudes as a beacon to guide the province, the Sisters, lay collaborators, and young people shared the ways the Salesian charism is strong, and areas where more growth is needed. There was small group sharing, a panel discussion by lay collaborators, and presentations from the young. Milly Beltran, Director of Campus Ministry at Immaculata-La Salle High School in Miami FL said, “I found the experience affirming to my mission as a lay collaborator to aid in the formation of good Christians and honest citizens in our young. It was also a gift to spend time with my Sisters.” The lay collaborators, from all areas of the province, enjoyed connecting with each other which allowed them to widen their view of Salesian ministries and the diverse ways the Salesian Family can meet the young. The young people who were chosen as representatives met on Zoom prior to the event and bonded quickly as they met in person to share their experiences with the Sisters. Heidi Krukis, a senior at Mary Help of Christians Academy, commented that she enjoyed
asking her peers how the Salesian spirit was lived in their schools. The Sisters and lay collaborators listened attentively to their comments and spoke highly of the value of having the youths' reflections. One of the highlights of the weekend was hearing, Joshua Balthazaar, youth representative from St. Benedict Parish, Etobicoke, Ontario say, “I never saw the process that goes into all that the Sisters do, so seeing this helps me appreciate how loved I really am.” He articulated well the reason why the Sisters and lay collaborators gathered — for love of the young, that they might realize how cherished they are by God. The Sisters also met to compile a final report for the General Chapter and to elect who would represent the province of St. Joseph and accompany Sr. Colleen Clair, Provincial, to Rome next fall. Sister Marisa De Rose was chosen by her Sisters with Sister April Hoffman as the substitute. Sister Theresa Samson shared, “The provincial chapter was a profoundly beautiful experience of being led by the Holy Spirit in communion with my Sisters. We gathered together to listen and synthesize the reflections of our province communities on how we live our Salesian charism today. I feel great hope that our contribution to the General Chapter will converge with the input of our worldwide communities and align with the vision of the Holy Spirit for us today.” Autumn 2026 • Partners in Giving • 5
SAVE THE DATE
Please “Give Us This Day”!
Our 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. 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 be an expression of our concern and love for one another. Thank you, and God bless you!
Save the date! The Salesian Sisters invite you to their Annual Christmas Party on Sunday, December 6, benefiting the Financial Aid Fund at Mary Help of Christians Academy.
Enjoy an afternoon filled with Christmas cheer—hundreds of baskets to win, fun games to play, and a delightful Santa’s Workshop to explore. It’s the perfect way to find special gifts for loved ones! Keep an eye out for your invitation soon. To join our Christmas mailing list, please contact the Development Office at (973) 904-0102. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
MEET THE ASPIRANTS
Six New Aspirants Begin Their Discernment
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esus said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” The master of the harvest has been generous in the Salesian vineyard! Six young women have entered St. Joseph Province as aspirants, beginning a time of deeper discernment with the Sisters. Meet them below...
Name: Alexandra Hometown: Pittsford, NY Favorite Scripture verse: “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness. I would rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me. Therefore, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and constraints for the sake of Christ, for when I am weak, then I am strong.” – 2 Cor 12:9-10)
Name: Athalias Hometown: New York, NY An interesting random fact about yourself: I am originally from the Dominican Republic, I have a twin sister named Stephania who is currently serving with the Sisters at Immaculata-La Salle High School in Miami, FL. I did a pilgrimage to Poland and Italy and I have also been to Puerto Rico and Guyana.
Name: Brigitta Hometown: Marshfield, WI Favorite spiritual book: The Practice of the Presence of God— This book really gave me new insights on how simple it really can be to love God and pray without ceasing. It showed me that I don’t have to have grand spiritual practices, I just need to offer all my day to the Lord and strive to keep Him always in my heart.
Name: Jacqueline Hometown: Dumfries, VA How did you first meet the Salesian Sisters: At SEEK 2024 in St. Louis, Missouri. The first Salesian Sister I met told me about VIDES (the volunteer program) when I shared my plans to travel after graduating college. It was through VIDES I learned more about the Salesian Charism and the life of a Salesian Sister.
Name: Rebecca Hometown: Fayetteville, NC Your favorite saints: St. Alphonsus Ligouri because he meets people where they are and explains the Faith in such a way that he is able to communicate profound truth in the simplest of ways. Also St. Michael the archangel because he truly understands who he is, who God is, and his relationship to God. His name means “Who is like unto God?”
Name: Juanita Hometown: Langley, Canada What drew you to the Salesian Sisters: I was attracted to the Sisters' love for the youth. They are also down to earth and have a joyfulness and childlike dependence on God. I also love that the Salesians are missionaries.
Autumn 2026 • Partners in Giving • 7
VOCATIONS UPDATE On Saturday, September 26, the aspirants received their medals during evening prayer in North Haledon, NJ. Sister Colleen Clair, Provincial of St. Joseph Province bestowed on each young woman the medal of Mary Help of Christians, assisted by Sister Teresa Gutierrez, Animator of Mary Help of Christians community. In attendance were the temporary professed Sisters who were in town for a conference as well as the men in formation for the Salesians of Don Bosco.
8 • Partners in Giving • Autumn 2026
VOCATIONS UPDATE
Postulants Receive Their Medals in California
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ight women from the Province of St. Joseph received their postulant medals on Friday, October 2, in Bellflower, California: Madeline Appelhans, Teresa Austin, Alana Brooks-Murphy, Sabra Charles, Nina DeBoer, Aislinn Gayle Domantay, Audrey Hubbard, and Rachel Roeber. During the year, the postulants will deepen their understanding of Salesian religious life through classes in Scripture, the History of the Institute, and Community Building. They will also participate in the Salesian mission firsthand by serving at St. Dominic Savio School in Bellflower, helping to lead several clubs, and by teaching catechism at the parish. Reflecting on the year ahead, Postulant Teresa Austin shares, “We’re looking forward to growing in our ownership of the Salesian charism through continuing to get to know the Salesian Family.” The postulants will also have the opportunity to interact with other religious communities in the Diocese of Orange. Since arriving in California, they have already participated in the 50th anniversary jubilee of the Diocese of Orange, attended a lunch with Archbishop José Gomez and consecrated religious and priests, and taken part in workshops with other men and women in formation.
Top right, going clockwise: Sister Christina Chong, delegate for the Provincial, Sister Colleen Clair, presents the postulant medal to Alana Brooks-Murphy with Sister Thuy Huong, Provincial of Mary Immaculate Province, and Sister Phuong Nguyen, Formator for the postulants; Sabra Charles and Rachel Roeber greet students arriving at St. Dominic Savio School in Bellflower, CA; the eight postulants from St. Joseph Province join two postulants from Mary Immaculate Province (Diana Valencia, far left, and Courtney Holbrook (second from left).
WHERE IS MY SALESIAN SISTER?
Salesian Sisters in the United States & Canada
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any of our Salesian Sisters have received new assignments and three more young women became Salesian Sisters in August this year. Here’s a handy reference to locate everyone across the Province of St. Joseph.
FLORIDA Bl. Laura Vicuña Convent 226 S.W. 20th Road Miami, FL 33129-1429 Phone: (305) 857-9186 www.ilsroyals.com Sr. Kim Keraitis, Animator Sr. Juliana Alfonso Sr. Sadeh Abed Alnour Sr. Monique Huart Villa Madonna Convent 2611 N. Massachusetts Ave. Tampa, FL 33602-1306 Phone: (813) 229-1322, ext. 393 www.villamadonnaschool.com Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza, Animator Sr. Isabel Garza Sr. Molly Heine Sr. Janet Keller Sr. Michelle Rotter Sr. Kaitlin Trokan St. Mary Mazzarello Convent 3000 53rd St. SW Naples, FL 34116 Phone: (239) 348-2911 www.sjnceltics.com Sr. Patricia Roche, Animator Sr. Helene Godin Sr. Gloria Hoang Sr. Pamela Rose Suresca LOUISIANA Immaculate Conception Convent care of: Academy of Our Lady 5501 Westbank Expressway Marrero, LA 70072
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Phone: (504) 341-6217 www.theacademyofourlady.org Sr. Michelle Geiger, Animator Sr. Nicole Daly Sr. Maryann Schaefer Sr. Anne Weis NEW JERSEY St. Joseph Provincial Center and Provincial Offices 655 Belmont Avenue Haledon, NJ 07508-2301 Phone: (973) 790-7966 www.salesiansisters.org Sr. Colleen Clair, Provincial Superior Sr. Joanne Holloman, Animator Sr. Catherine Altamura Sr. Mary Arciga Sr. Susan Bagli Sr. Margaret Rose Buonaiuto Sr. Mary Ann Caspary Sr. Esther Cruz Sr. Fran Da Grossa Sr. Angela De Capua Sr. Suzanne Dauwalter Sr. Kathleen Deighan Sr. Rufina Delgado Sr. Virginia Dickey Sr. Domenica DiPeri Sr. Anita Durocher Sr. Ann Hottot Sr. Pauline Joss Sr. Eileen Joseph Sr. Guerline Joseph Sr. Emilia Kassab Sr. Clare Kennelly Sr. Florine Lagace Sr. Theresa Lee
Sr. Balbina Lopez Sr. Betty Ann Martinez Sr. Carmen Morales Sr. Mary Louise Mazzocco Sr. Mary Bertha Paquin Sr. Anna Ragogna Sr. Arlene Rubino Sr. Livia Setti Sr. Marie Fe Tansioco Sr. Teresita Teran Sr. Carmela Termine Sr. Mary Terzo Sr. Eileen Tickner Sr. Ines Valentin Sr. Beatrice Valot Sr. Margaret Wilhelm Sr. Mary Anne Zito Mary Help of Christians Academy 659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Phone: (973) 790-6200 www.maryhelp.org Sr. Teresa Gutierrez, Animator Sr. Ramona Beltre Sr. Elfie DelRosario Sr. Katie Flanagan Sr. Brittany Harrison Sr. Rachel Lauritsen Sr. Amy Nguyen Sr. Kelly Schuster St. Theresa Convent 112 North 23rd Street Kenilworth, NJ 07033-1256 Phone: (908) 276-5028 www.mysts.org Sr. Marisa DeRose, Animator Sr. Jessica Castillo Sr. Lillian Foxx Sr. Jazmin Rangel
WHERE IS MY SALESIAN SISTER? Bl. Eusebia Palomino Convent 172 Washington Avenue Hawthorne, NJ 07506 Phone: (973) 304-1243 www.stanthonyschool.org Sr. Christina Chong, Animator Sr. Mary Jackson Sr. Joo Yun Park Sr. Natasha Roig Sacred Heart Retreat Center and Novitiate 20 Old Swartswood Road Newton, NJ 07860-6221 Phone: (973) 383-2620 www.sacredheart spiritualitycenter.org Sr. April Hoffman, Animator Sr. Emy De Filippi Sr. Theresa Kelly Sr. Myriam Meus Sr. Janna San Juan NEW YORK Corpus Christi Convent 135 South Regent Street Port Chester, NY 10573-3510 Phone: (914) 937-4405 www.cchrs.org Sr. Karen Dunn, Animator Sr. Maria Colombo Sr. Liz Ryan Sr. Lisa Scarduzio Sr. Megan Zeugner OHIO St. Francis de Sales Convent 161 E. Patterson Street Columbus, OH 43202 Phone: (614) 267-7808 www.sfdstallions.org Sr. Loretta DeDomenicis, Animator Sr. Antoinette Cedrone Sr. Boram Lee Sr. Theresa Samson
CANADA Our Lady of Good Counsel 4865 Beatrice Street Surrey, British Columbia V5N 4J4 Phone: (604) 584-0055 Sr. Marisol Guzman, Animator Sr. Aida Bohorquez Sr. Natalie Doummar Sr. Denise Sickinger St. Joseph Convent 17 Porterfield Road Etobicoke, Ontario M9W 3J2 Sr. Pat Melanson, Animator Sr. April Cabaccang Sr. Hae-Jin Lim Don Bosco Center 178 Steeles Avenue East Markham, Ontario L3T 1A5 Phone: (289) 597-2208 Sr. Rosa Mak, Animator Sr. Cora Beboso Sr. Jeannine Landry Sr. Teresa Li St. Dominic Savio Convent 9299 Ave. Pierre de Coubertin Montréal, Québec H1L 2H6 Phone: (514) 351-6233 Sr. Francoise Fontaine, Animator Sr. Rejeanne Asselin Sr. Alphonsine Basque Sr. Pierette Carpentier Sr. Rena Cormier Sr. Pauline Cossette Sr. Raymonde Dery Sr. Antoinette Guillaume (HAI) Sr. Lise Guitard Sr. Claudette Parent Sr. Ethel Rousselle Sr. Lilianne Roy ITALY Sr. Francine Guilmette Sr. Hyunjoo Cecilia Park Sr. Judith Suprys
Top to bottom: Sister Mary Jackson and Sister Joo Yun Park with students from St. Anthony School in Hawthorne, NJ; Sister Michelle Geiger drives around seniors from Academy of Our Lady in Marrero, LA; Sister Antoinette Cedrone with young women who work for the diocese of Columbus, OH.
Autumn 2026 • Partners in Giving • 11
A Love That Lasts Forever
Memorials
Received between August 5, 2026 and October 8, 2026 Gayle Noah Mrs. Elizabeth Gatti
You can honor a cherished relative or friend with an everlasting gift of love – a memorial. Our Partners in Giving Memorials & Tributes give you the opportunity to comfort those who have lost a loved one or to commemorate a special occasion. This gift lives forever, joining our loved ones to the prayers of the Salesian Sisters while supporting their good works. The name of your loved one will appear in our Partners in Giving magazine—a priceless gift to those you love. Give the gift that lasts forever. Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of: ____ $25
____ $20
Memorial for Tribute for
____$15
$
Name – DECEASED Name – LIVING
Occasion Please send an acknowledgment to: Name Address My Name Address
Barbara Perron Mr. and Mrs. William J. Hays Mr. Ronald Perron Carol Haussmann Mr. John G. Haussmann Donald L. Komp Mr. and Mrs. Donald V. Roach Helen Turosky Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Quinn In loving memory of Vera Gore Mr. Will Caban In memory of Elvira Ann “Vera” Gore Ms. Tina Livesay Mr. John Griggs and The Griggs Family In memory of Ann E. LaGuardia Ms. Robert Fitzpatrick First Choice Insurance Agency Joanna Bernaldo Mr. and Mrs. Jack Stone Joyce Geiger Mr. and Mrs. Tom Frizzell Luigi Marciante, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Luigi Marciante Mary Ann Mullin Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DeVita Sr. Nivia Arias Ms. Vicki Santos Mr. and Mrs. Robert Dunn Mrs. Carol Nelson Mr. and Mrs. Billy Gerrety Mr. and Mrs. Kirk Rose Mr. and Mrs. Manuel Fernandez Sue Vargas Mrs. Ana Vargas Walter Pukszta Mrs. Barbara Pukszta
Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope. Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
ASCENSION PRESS PODCAST
Photos by Chris Amodio
Discovering the Wisdom of St. Teresa of Avila: Hosting Ascension's Catholic Classics Podcast By Sister Katie Flanagan, FMA
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eginning October 28, Sister Elfie Del Rosario and I have the privilege of hosting Season Six of Ascension’s Catholic Classics podcast, exploring St. Teresa of Avila’s spiritual masterpiece, The Interior Castle. Across 29 episodes, listeners are invited to journey through the seven dwelling places of the soul as St. Teresa reveals how we can recognize God’s presence, grow in prayer, overcome spiritual obstacles, and deepen our friendship with Him. The series features Ascension’s exclusive translation of the book. I read the text and share short reflections on how its wisdom can be applied to our lives, while Sister Elfie joins me for several episodes to introduce each new dwelling place outlined in the book. You may be wondering why a Salesian Sister is sharing reflections on the writings of a Carmelite saint! Although St. Teresa belonged to the Carmelite tradition, she holds a special place in our Salesian spirituality. Did you know that St. John Bosco gave St. Teresa of Avila to the Sisters as our patroness, inviting us to imitate her profound interior life and deep union with God? It was a true honor to reflect on the wisdom of this remarkable woman, a Doctor of the Church, and a spiritual guide whose teachings continue to inspire people across generations and traditions.
Recording this series was a humbling experience. I am by no means an expert in prayer, but St. Teresa certainly is! It was a gift to spend time with her wisdom and share it with others. One of the most beautiful messages of The Interior Castle is that we do not have to be experts in prayer to begin. We simply have to enter the castle.
“A deep interior life is at the heart of our mission and enables us to accompany others more faithfully on their journey toward God.” My hope is that this podcast will encourage listeners to discover the richness of St. Teresa’s spirituality and grow in their own relationship with Christ. Her wisdom is a wonderful reminder for all of us, especially as Salesians, that a deep interior life is at the heart of our mission and enables us to accompany others more faithfully on their journey toward God. If you'd like to listen along, go to Ascension's website or find Catholic Classics wherever podcasts are available. Autumn 2026 • Partners in Giving • 13
How the Psalms Help Us to Pray By Sister Myriam Meus, FMA
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n Psalm 63, the Psalmist sings, “For your love is better than life, my lips will speak your praise. So I will bless you all my life, in your name I will lift up my hands” (Ps. 63:4). These words are the cry of a soul deeply longing for God, that recognizes the grandeur and the sweetness of His love. The Psalmist expresses the desire of ever praising God for His love, a love that is better than life. When we read Psalm 63 in its entirety, we see that it is not only a hymn of praise to God but also the assurance of God’s protection of one’s life. The Psalms help us pray. They help us to be honest with God in prayer, to recognize His greatness and His love, and to praise Him with our whole being, to come to Him with childlike faith and trust, and to be vulnerable before our Creator. The Psalms show the simplicity and spontaneity of prayer (CCC, 2589).
“The Psalms express the different human experiences that the People of Israel went through — experiences that are still part of the tapestry of human life today. ”
In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the five books of the Psalter (or “The Praises”), are called “the masterwork of prayer of the Old Testament” (CCC, 2585). In the Old Testament, the People of God used the Psalms when gathered during the great feasts in Jerusalem and each Sabbath in the synagogues. For them, the Psalms were the way to both nourish and express their prayer to God (CCC, 2586). The Psalms reminded them of God’s faithfulness in the history of Israel and gave them hope for the future (CCC, 2586). During His earthly pilgrimage, our Lord Jesus also prayed the Psalms. Our Church sees the Psalms as an essential part of her prayer to God (CCC, 2586). The Psalms help us be honest with God in prayer. The Psalms express the different human experiences that the People of Israel went through — experiences that are still part of the tapestry of human life today. They teach us to approach God in humility and with honesty, to use our daily joys, trials, and struggles as prayer to the Lord. The Psalms are a response of the human person’s understanding of God and a direct communication to the God whose work is seen through all creation (CCC, 2587). The Psalms teach us to praise God with all our hearts. The voice of the Psalmist in Psalm 150 utters these words, “Praise God is His holy place…Praise Him with timbrel and dance. Let everything that lives and that breathes give praise to the Lord” (Ps 150:1, 4, 6). Praising God involves our whole being, all that we are and all that we
have. In praying this Psalm, we recognize the greatness of God and use our hearts, our voices, our musical instruments to give Him the glory that God alone deserves. Here, the Psalmist teaches us to let our whole being glorify the Lord for Who He is, the One who creates us and holds us in existence. This is a hymn that springs from the deepest part of the believer. The Psalms teach us to come to God with a childlike faith and trust. The assuring voice of the Psalmist in Psalm 23 prays, “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want…He guides me along the right path; He is true to His name” (Ps. 23, 1, 3). This prayer reminds us of a child who has total faith and trust in a good father. A good father always protects and guides his children on the right path. This Psalm tells us that the Lord will never abandon us because He is true to His name, He is the Good Shepherd. Our God is love, and love keeps us safe and safeguards our well-being. Psalm 23 expresses the abundant life and peace that God desires to pour upon us. The Lord anoints us with the purest oil, a sign of His grace and love for us. The Psalmist assures us of the comfort that is found in the Lord’s house, where we hope to dwell with Him forever. We can imagine the Psalmist of Psalm 23 resting in God’s hands, sure of the Father’s love and care for him. When we allow our being to be penetrated by the prayerful words of Psalm 23, we will no longer be afraid of letting God in every part of our lives, even the ones we tend to hide from Him. This Psalm invites us to rest in the Lord’s goodness and to let ourselves be vulnerable before Him. Our vulnerability before the Lord is a sign of
Illustrations from The Psalms of David / Illuminated by Owen Jones. Public Domain.
greater intimacy with Him. He is Our Good Shepherd. He will guide us and heal our deepest wounds. When we use the Psalms to pray, whether we are saying a Psalm of praise or thanksgiving, or lamentation or trust, it is a way of talking to God in all simplicity and spontaneity, telling the Lord of our joys and achievements, our failures and shortcomings, and of His lasting goodness towards us. The Psalms gave voice to the sentiments of the People of God in the Old Testament and still continue to do the same for us today. Let us imitate the Psalmists of long ago, approaching God with simplicity and honesty whether we use the written Psalms in our Bible or the ones that are unwritten in the depths of our hearts.
ADOPT A SISTER Salesian Cooperator Nancy Lopez and Sister Hae-Jin Lim
Please Adopt a Sister
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lease consider joining our friends of all faiths who have experienced the transforming power of prayer and loving friendship with a Salesian Sister, every day of the year, through our Adopt-a-Sister Program. Whether the Adopted Sister is for you, 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!
CVV: _____________
16 • Partners in Giving • Autumn 2026
SALESIAN SCHOOLS ST. FRANCIS DESALES HIGH SCHOOL, Columbus, OH — Students at St. Francis de Sales High School in Columbus, Ohio, discovered new ways to put their faith into action during the school’s annual Club Fair. Sister Boram Lee joined the Campus Ministry Director and student leaders to introduce students to the many opportunities available through Campus Ministry.
Sister Boram Lee with Cameron Rudolph and Rebecca Metzger
From prayer and service to retreats and leadership opportunities, Campus Ministry invites students to deepen their relationship with God while making a difference in their school and wider community. The Club Fair gave students a chance to learn how they can become involved and use their individual gifts in service to others. For Sister Boram and the Campus Ministry team, the event was also an opportunity to remind students that living their faith does not happen only in the chapel. In true Salesian spirit, it is woven into friendships, service, school life and the everyday choices through which young people bring Christ to one another. ACADEMY OF OUR LADY HIGH SCHOOL, Marrero, LA — Students and faculty at AOL began the new school year by gathering around the Eucharistic table for their first school Mass on August 14, placing Christ at the center of the year ahead. The celebration held special significance for four seniors who took an important step in their faith journey by becoming Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. Their commitment reflects the heart of a Salesian education: growing closer to Christ and allowing that relationship to take shape in joyful service to others. As the AOL community begins another year together, these young women offer a beautiful example of faith lived with generosity, responsibility, and joy.
Principal Sister Michelle Geiger looks on as Fr. Sidney Speaks leads seniors Bailey Smith, Madelynn Mochak, Addison Fisher and Michelle Diep in making their promises as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.
SALESIAN SCHOOLS
Jen Fox with Sister Helene Godin; Sister Patricia Roche, Principal of St. John Neumann Catholic High School welcomes the mothers to brunch; Grace Almeida and Sister Pamela Rose Suresca.
ST. JOHN NEUMANN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL, Naples, FL — The annual Home and School Association Mother’s Brunch at SJN offered moms a welcome opportunity to slow down, connect with one another, and share a morning rooted in faith. The Salesian Sisters joined the gathering, adding to the sense of family and community that has made the brunch a special tradition. Guest speaker Lori Crawford shared an inspiring message, “Listen Through Love. Serve with Purpose,” reflecting on the importance of approaching others with both compassion and intention. Her message connected beautifully with this year’s school theme, “Serve with Joy,” inviting those gathered to see joyful service as an expression of love.
IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, Miami, FL — A Renaissance masterpiece became both inspiration and classroom at Immaculata-La Salle High School as Dual Enrollment Classical Drawing students began the year by taking a closer look at Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Students first deconstructed the famous work using the elements and principles of art. They examined how da Vinci applied composition, balance, proportion, and line to create one of the most recognizable images in Christian art. They then put those lessons into practice, working collaboratively to create their own interpretation of The Last Supper. The project challenged students not only to study the techniques of a master artist, but also to consider how a centuries-old sacred image can be interpreted through their own artistic vision. The completed work was displayed in the Student Learning Center during the month of September, offering the ILS community a chance to enjoy the creativity and talent of its young artists.
18 • Partners in Giving • Autumn 2026
SALESIAN SCHOOLS VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, Tampa, FL — On August 29, the Tampa Salesian Family gathered to celebrate the life of Sister Nivia Arias with a Memorial Mass at St. Joseph’s Church, followed by a reception in the Villa Madonna School gymnasium. Nearly 200 family members and friends came together to remember Sister Nivia and enjoy one another’s company. It was a beautiful opportunity to celebrate her life and the many lives she touched. Father John Serio. SDB with a group of Sisters
The gathering took place in Villa's gymnasium
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, North Haledon, NJ — Three MHC Academy seniors were awarded ATA STEM Scholarships in recognition of their outstanding achievement in STEM. Grace Marescot received the top award of $50,000, followed by Heather Budez ($25,000) and Emilia Valentino ($10,000). The scholarships will support their pursuit of STEM majors in college. Eligible students must have attended MHC Academy since freshman year and completed six advanced STEM courses; awards are based on the highest average grades in those courses. Heather Budez, Grace Marescot, and Emilia Valentino Sister Kelly Schuster, Head of School, with the students and their parents
ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL, Hawthorne, NJ —A new school year brought plenty of reasons to celebrate at SAS. Students and families gathered for a Welcome Back Picnic filled with food, fun and time together, giving old friends a chance to reconnect and new families an opportunity to feel at home. There were games, arts and crafts activities, a DJ, and face painting for all to enjoy!
Sister Natasha Roig, Father Brendon Harfmann, Father Stephen Prisk, pastor, Sister Joo Yun Park, Sister Mary Jackson, principal, with students from St. Anthony School.
T
he 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 FLORIDA Dorothy✝ & Dr. Vincent✝ Bagli Josie✝ & Ray✝ Campo Anne & Joseph✝ Garcia Ann Lowry Murphey✝ Angel Oliva Family 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 “STEWARDS” - $11,000 FLORIDA Patricia Connors Sherry Millar MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Ted Reading PARTNERS CIRCLE “PARTNERS $5,500 CONNECTICUT Mary Bridget Gaine FLORIDA Ms. Caroline Barnhill Anthony & Geraldine Dell’Orto Mr. David Jacobson in memory of Joe Chillura, Jr. Fredy Padovan in memory of Maria-Restrepo-Forte Susan & Jeff Turner NEW JERSEY Chris & Gemma Chong Al Daloisio, Jr. Anthony & Arlene Laino Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer Joseph & Rita Weiner
VIRGINIA Mr. & Mrs. Greg Mueller
PARTNERS CIRCLE “BENEFACTORS” - $1,100
PARTNERS CIRCLE “FRIENDS” - $3,300
CALIFORNIA Mary & Robert Obenberger
FLORIDA Idalia Lastra Barket Anne & Fred Michaels Robert Nocek
CONNECTICUT Linda and Peter Christiansen Barbara & Fabrizio Zichichi
OHIO Mr and Mrs Philip Kraker NEW JERSEY Marilyn & Dale Livi Andrelisa Michel & Michael Russo PARTNERS CIRCLE “FOUNDERS” - $2,200 ARIZONA Mrs. AnnMarie Forster CALIFORNIA Gary and Pat Hoover CONNECTICUT Christina & David McAleer PC DELAWARE Maria Sturchio FLORIDA Anne & John Bedlek Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Clark Mrs. Patricia Driscoll Maria Restrepo Forte Mrs. Kathleen Medore Mrs. Marguerite Carr Ramsey MASSACHUSETTS Deirdre Kelleher NEW JERSEY Mark and Ann Marie Abene Mr. & Mrs. Frank Facciolo Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann Rosemary, Frank, Jessica & Joseph Lupo Family Andrew Kavulich & Christine Papa The O’Halloran Family NEW YORK Jordon Carroll
INDIANA Mr. & Mrs. Judson Church
NORTH CAROLINA Mr. Sean Nassoiy
MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair PC
PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. John R. Salvetti In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA
NEW YORK Mr. Silvio Alfeo Mary Ellen Scala
SOUTH CAROLINA Tom & Laurie Aldinger
FLORIDA Mrs. Bernadine Ayer Mrs. Liana Baldor, in memory of Carlos & Ana Maria Baldor Mr. Daniel J. Bardauskis Joseph & Claudine Caballero PC Jo Ann and Joseph Caracappa Dr. & Mrs. Lazaro Hernandez Greg & Lori Korte Mr. & Mrs. Rob Obbink Ms. Marianne O’Doherty Gene & Linda Perez John & Diann✝ Pinkowski Teresa & Ravi Sharma MASSACHUSETTS Chandler Rohde NEW JERSEY Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Amatuzzi Mrs. Rose Bielicki Mrs. Theresa Cannarozzi Mr John Capeci James and Carol Cavaluzzi Mr. Shane & Mrs. Valbona Clair Christus Vincit, Christus Regnat, Christus Imperiat Ms. Debi F. Debiak, Esq., Class of '88 Maureen and Clem Farley Mr. & Mrs. Martin Flemming Mr. and Mrs. Gary Frankin Miss Mary Jean Hayek James Construction Company, Inc. Mrs. Edith Josephson Michael & Mary Losurdo Mr. Joseph Massood Mr. and Mrs. Steven Mazzola Mrs. Faith Menard Mary Ann Munson Robert & Constance Sumas Maura and Michael Testa Cecilia and Augustin Yoon NEW YORK Michael & Jeanette Altamura Anonymous Paul and Danielle Cangro Paul & Stephanie Gerardi
Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec Joey Vallie
GEORGIA Charles Fantauzza
PARTNERS CIRCLE “QUARTER CENTURY CLUB” - $250
NORTH CAROLINA Mrs. Eileen Seeburger
IDAHO Dr. Ralph W. Higer
ARIZONA Ms. Christina Smith
PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Brian Clair Ms. Kate Clair Msgr. Robert Carroll Dr. Allyson & Mr. Kevin Hardy Edna Wilson
ILLINOIS The Rangel Family
CALIFORNIA Ms. Jackie Edelman Rev. Paula T. Webb, Ph.D.
TENNESSEE Patty & Dan Clair VIRGINIA Brian Walsh WISCONSIN Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Clair PARTNERS CIRCLE “ASSOCIATES” - $825 CALIFORNIA Darlene & William Loose CONNECTICUT Michael S. Guarnieri PC FLORIDA Rene & Phyllis Rodriguez Ron Yates MARYLAND The Albert Marra Family NEW JERSEY Joseph W. & Kathleen Buckley OHIO Dale & Lynda Kovach PENNSYLVANIA Mrs. Mary Ann Piotrowski RHODE ISLAND Mr. Mackenzie Clair PARTNERS CIRCLE “MEMBERS” - $550 CALIFORNIA Patrick and Kasia Gorman CONNECTICUT Anonymous Mr. Edward F. Goin Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey DELAWARE Dr. Pat & Mrs. Dianne Confalone FLORIDA Mrs. Trudy Carey Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria Jim and Sue Flanagan Manny & Aggie Fernandez Leslie J. Izquierdo Garcia Giacomo Guggino Mr. and Mrs. Carl E. Kraus Louis and Elena Menendez Laguardia Mr. James D. Leone Mr. and Mrs. Joe and Kelly Nunez PC Joan Palmer Hon. & Mrs. E.J. Salcines
MARYLAND Mrs. Josephine Savage MASSACHUSETTS Dustin and Amanda Bonner Mr. Xavier Clair MISSOURI Jim and Cathy Weis NEW JERSEY Tiziana Anello, MD Adam Psichos & Clelia Biamonti Gerard & Phyllis Brew Mrs. Regina Calcagno Larry & Mary Anne Condit Mr. & Mrs. Andrew J. Dunn Mr. & Mrs. Michael Ferrito Joann Giamonco Dr. Louis Gambetta Mrs. Vivian Isenberg Mrs. Kui Soon Kang Riley Obetz & Corrinne Rieser Mrs. Christine Peragallo Edward M. Zambrano NEW YORK Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Clair Ms. Lena Huang Mr. Walter Lazarcheck NORTH CAROLINA The Hasher Family OHIO Anonymous In memory of Mr. Fred Mastrogiovanni PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Glen Berdela Joseph & Joyce Boyle Patricia and William Hayes Mr. & Mrs. Liam Irving Mr. Stephen A. McBride, Esq. Mr. Brennan Obetz SOUTH CAROLINA Gene and Nacy Ceccarelli Rich and Melanie Demmler TENNESSEE Pat & Terence Clair Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds TEXAS Mr. & Mrs. John F. Kruzel VIRGINIA Mr. & Mrs. William L. Carpenter Mrs. Dominique Faust Dr. & Mrs. Andrew Whitmore WISCONSIN Mr. and Mrs. Conor Clair
CONNECTICUT Anonymous Mr. Michael Bavasso & Diane Nobert Mrs. Eileen G. Hahnenkratt Dr. Joe McAleer FLORIDA Bernadette & Fred Cairoli Mr. & Mrs. James M. Desmond Ms. Annabella Montoya Arthur & Maria Fierman Mr. & Mrs. Richard Lebron Mrs. Victoria Lee Skrimshire Jim & Rita (Zoppo) Vietmeyer MASSACHUSETTS Mr. Seamus Clair Ms. Sandra M. Nadeau NEW JERSEY Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Choma Mr. & Mrs. Raymond P. Corbett Donald and Marguerite Cronrath, Jr. Ms. Denise Dorgan & Mr. Michael Hynes Ms. Patrice Enyart Mr. & Mrs. Paul Galimi Gary Gigliotti Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Konzelmann Msgr. Raymond Kupke Mr. and Mrs. Wayne H. Lehr Rae Rinaldi Gene & Lorraine Signoretti Denise & Ken Trynosky Ms. Joanne Williams Mr. & Mrs. Steven Wojtowicz NEW YORK Charles V. & Denise J. Curcio The Halling Family Mr. Angelo Forta Maria DaGrossa-Hanna PC Mrs. Carolyn Mesler Mary & Joseph Miressi Teresita Perez Hon. Madeleine & Rene Perrin PC OHIO Whitney McAfee PENNSYLVANIA Ms. Robin Bernstein SOUTH CAROLINA Ed & Luciann Slomkowski TENNESSEE Robert and Kathleen Greenwell VIRGINIA Mr. & Mrs. Michael Deighan
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Province of St. Joseph of the Eastern U.S. & Canada
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage P A I D Hanover, NH Permit No. 8
Sisters and novices from the Sacred Heart community enjoyed an afternoon surrounded by God’s creation during a visit to the Sunflower Maze and Farm in Sandyston, NJ, hosted by friends Raj, Jolene and Cyrus Sinha.
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