Partners in GivinG
Development Office of the Salesian Sisters, Daughters of Mary Help of Christians • www.salesiansisters.org
Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s Letter Dear Friends:
Some other news to report:
A pirate’s life for the Salesian Sisters on our cover? Not a chance! Instead, our Villa Madonna School and Convent contingent in Tampa, FL, enjoyed climbing around the rigging of the pirate ship for the lavish school production of “Peter Pan.” Hanging around are (clockwise from left) Sr. Guerline Joseph, Sr. Nivia Arias, Sr. Mary Jackson, Sr. Theresa Lee, Sr. Rosemary Cordes (holding the hook of Captain Hook, played by eighth-grader Anthony “Nino” Cutrono), and Sr. Joo Yun Park. See page 20.
• Our annual Jubilarian celebration was a great success! It was wonderful seeing so many family and friends coming together to honor 12 Salesian Sisters from the U.S. and Canada. See pages 5-7.
Needless to say, we have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from so many of you following the devastating St. Joseph Chapel fire at Mary Help of Christians Academy on May 18. Your letters are a great comfort (we include some on page 4) and your gifts are truly humbling and beautiful. We are facing a difficult two-year rebuilding project but, through the intercession of Mary Help of Christians and the commitment of the entire extended Salesian Family, we will perservere and triumph – together!
PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bi-monthly magazine published by the
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office 659 Belmont Ave., North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Telephone: (973) 904-0102 • Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS E-mail: fmadevt@aol.com www.salesiansisters.org www.facebook.com/salesiansistersdevelopment Dr. Joe McAleer, Editor Sr. Mary Rinaldi, Director of Development Elsie DeJesus, Production Manager Theresa G. Anderson, Copy Editor
• Once again, thousands of youngsters in four U.S. states and in Canada had the opportunity for healthy, wholesome recreation at our Salesian Summer Camps. And our $50,000 Matching Gift Challenge was met, yet again – all thanks to your generosity! We share the happy pictures on pages 8-9. On behalf of the Salesian Sisters, I wish you a safe, restful, very happy – and cool! – remainder of the summer. Not long now before my next favorite time of the year: Back to School!
Peace,
Save These Dates Friday, October 19
Mary Help of Christians Academy Gala
The Grove, Cedar Grove, NJ. Watch for details!
Saturday, November 17 Federal Tax ID # 22-6043753
Thanksgiving Basket
© 2018 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.
2 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 4
Tampa, FL. Watch for details!
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Making Headlines Around the Province
After the Fire, You Opened Your Hearts
T
he devastating fire which destroyed our beautiful St. Joseph Chapel in North Haledon, NJ on May 18 took our breath away. It was nearly impossible to take in the great loss. It made no sense because our chapel was made “new” only two years ago. We quickly learned that God had not abandoned us. He inspired countless new people from every corner of our country to send us messages of hope with their donations of love and compassion. Even our young campers were concerned! Some of the messages are on the next page. We discovered where the fire started in the roof, but not “how.” We learned that there would be insurance money, but not “how much.” We felt the power of the written word in our
Partners in Giving magazine. You, our readers, clipped the coupon below and sent in generous compassionate gifts for a total of $45,000. Never before have we seen such a powerful response!
There’s more. The very first person to text me offering help was Tom Manzo from The Brownstone in Paterson, NJ. He hosted an Italian Feast at no cost to us for 500 people and, together with David Maniaci of Nicholas Markets in North Haledon, raised $109,000. This was a true miracle of generosity! During the month that followed we received checks from nearby
parishes, Knights of Columbus and Columbiettes, and parents and children in our summer camps. The children loved their prayer space at Mary Help. Some arrived at camp with money collected at their lemonade stands! We have truly felt the outpouring of love and God’s almighty hand so powerfully in picking up our spirits. As soon as camp closes the clean-up and removals will begin in earnest. Our Provincial Economer, Sr. Margaret Wilhelm, is tirelessly overseeing the two-year project, seeking the best professional advice. Thank you one and all from the Salesian Sisters, students, and faculty at Mary Help of Christians Academy. – Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA
Yes, I/we wish to make a gift to help rebuild St. Joseph Chapel
Please detach and mail to us in the enclosed envelope.Thank you, and God bless you!
All Ages Respond to the Chapel Fire
I
was overwhelmed with sorrow upon learning that a fire had destroyed the Academy’s Chapel. Having lived in Clifton all my life until 2009 when I moved to Lyndhurst, Mary Help of Christians Academy was a “household word.” It was well known for its religious education programs. In the world we live in today, your Academy is needed more than ever. I’m sure your Chapel will rise above the ashes and will be more beautiful than ever. Patricia Presing Lyndhurst, NJ
T
hank God no one was hurt and some of the most important relics survived. As I have gotten older, the one thing I do know is that one’s faith does not waiver or change regardless of the happenstances. The faith of the Salesians and their followers has not been destroyed, but remains solid, as solid as the foundation upon which The Lord’s Church was built more than two thousand years ago. With the Salesian Sisters’ faith and their followers’ faith and support, the Chapel will be rebuilt and dedicated to our Lord and His Mother. Maryanne Coulson Upper Darby, PA
Lovely sentiments from two of our Mary Help of Christians Summer Campers, Natalia, age 10 (left) – note the drawing of her lemonade stand! – and Demiana, age 11 (above).
I
t was heartbreaking to see the pictures and aftermath of the fire at the Chapel. My two girls graduated from Mary Help and had wonderful memories of their lives. I’m grateful to God that you are all safe and nobody was hurt. You are all loved and treasured in our hearts. God bless you all. You are all included in our daily prayers. Correa Family Hawthorne, NJ
I
am so terribly sorry to hear about the loss of our Chapel. It has been the keystone of my high school career, and where I fully converted to our beautiful Catholic faith. In fact, I just devoted myself to Mother Mary there last week! Let us not despair but instead focus on our beautiful memories there – for God will always provide. I will forever cherish every other moment I experienced there. If there is any way my family and I can help, please do not hesitate to contact us! Sophia Rose Mary Help Class of 2018
4 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 4
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
Congratulations, Sisters,
on your blessed Jubilees!
Congratulations to our Jubilarians! Seated: Sr. Frances Gumino (75 years). Standing: Sr. Lise Parent (40 years), Sr. Micheline Bertrand (65 years), Sr. Amelia Callegarin (65 years), Sr. Kim Keraitis (40 years), Sr. Joanne Holloman (40 years), Sr. Rosemary Cordes (50 years), Sr. Eileen Joseph (60 years), Sr. Réna Cormier (50 years), and Sr. Jeannine Landry (50 years). Not pictured: Sr. Agatha Cosentino (60 years) and Sr. Michelle Geiger (25 years).
T
he Jubilee Celebration held on Sunday, July 22 was a “moveable” feast. Since we could not use St. Joseph Chapel at Mary Help of Christians Academy, Mass was celebrated in the gymnasium, beautifully decorated and air conditioned. Then we all marched just up the road to The Tides for a festive luncheon. It was a day filled with joy and Salesian Family Spirit for the 300 family members, families, friends, Adopters, and past pupils of our schools, camps, and parishes. Grateful thanks to Fr. John Nazarro, our main celebrant, for our Mass and for enriching us with his homily. Through the years he has been a brother to us, always ready to share
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a good word, lend a helping hand, offer advice and, yes, tell a few jokes, too. Thanks also to Fr. Tim Zak, the Salesian Provincial, and Deacon Joe Caporaso for being with us, as well as our musicians and choir for willingly sharing their time and talent. They truly lifted our hearts to God. Thank you to Sr. Joanne Holloman who guides us with love and concern and lots of optimism for a bright future of St. John Bosco’s work growing in our Province. Thank you to our Sisters, Novices, Postulants, and Candidates for all the love and joy they so willingly share during the course of each day. Thank you to our families and friends.
God’s blessings of peace, love, and joy be with each of you always. And our gratitude wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t mention the many people who have influenced our lives but are not here today, especially our parents for nurturing us in faith and values, for providing for us in our youth, and for untying the apron strings when God called. Finally, we thank Sr. Mary Rinaldi, Sr. Maria Colombo, and all the Sisters and people who in any way worked to make this event a reality. We pray that Jesus and Mary will send you all many blessings. – Sr. Rosemary Cordes, FMA, celebrating her 50th anniversary
Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2018 • 5
Congratulations, Sisters,
on your blessed Jubilees!
Sr. Réna Cormier & Sr. Jeannine Landry, FMA
Sr. Frances Gumino and Sr. Amelia Callegarin celebrate their Jubilees, hand-in-hand!
50th Anniversary
W
e congratulate two Salesian Sisters from Canada on their golden jubilees! Sr. Réna Cormier was born in Bertrand, New Brunswick. “Fifty years of religious life have been filled with joy and many surprises,” she says, including service at day care centers and summer camps. “I thank my parents, my family, the Sisters, and friends for their love and support, and so I say, ‘My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit exults in God my Savior.’”
Sr. Jeannine Landry is the oldest of 13 children born in Dalhousie, New Brunswick. She has worked in the African missions and taught in Canada and the U.S. Sr Jeannine is now Director of VIDES Canada and prepares young people to volunteer abroad. “The Lord has blessed me with a wonderful family, supporting Sisters in community, and 50 years of inspiring encounters with so many young people,” she says.
(Photos by Sr. Fran Da Grossa, FMA)
Dorothy Bagli joined in the celebration of Sr. Joanne Holloman’s 40th anniversary.
Sr. Amelia visits with Colonel (Retired) Richard Babbitt of Houghton, NY.
Sr. Lise Parent was thrilled to see so many of her family from Montréal, Canada.
6 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 4
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
A Happy Day in “Whoville” Editor’s note: Sr. Rosemary Cordes delivered the following remarks at the Jubilee celebration on July 22.
O
ur special celebration in this gymnasium makes me think of two things in particular. The first is the Dr. Seuss story of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas. What is Sr. Rosemary talking about, you might ask? Well, our special meeting place for this Jubilee celebration was taken away from us with a fire in the quiet of the night in May. Just like Cindy-Lou Who, who wasn’t daunted by the Grinch taking every last hint of tinsel from Whoville, the Salesian Sisters, with gratitude in their hearts that no one was hurt, said our celebration will go on as they busied themselves making a Plan B. We’ll pray in the gym and feast at The Tides. The people will come, for their hearts are full of love for the Sisters who gave many years of service to God and His people – here, there, and everywhere.
Sr. Joanne Holloman, Provincial Superior, visits with family members from Atlantic City, NJ.
The second special significance of being in this gym today is that my class, the class of 1965, was the first class to hold graduation in this gym, which at that time was NOT air conditioned! The first time I was here on this stage, I was deeply grateful for the milestone I reached and full of wonder for what was to come as I pursued a long awaited desire to follow Jesus in religious life. Today I return to celebrate a journey of the past 50 years that has been full of joy, peace, love, fun, work, and yes, sorrows and challenges were intertwined.
Sr. Rosemary Cordes welcomed family members from New Jersey and New York.
My “Yes” grew stronger as I met each new day with Jesus and Mary, always walking with me. During one moment of difficulty, I remember the wise advice of Sr. Josephine Carini. Holding her crucifix up to me, she simply said, “Is it too much for Him?” The words I answered within me that day have led me to this moment. On behalf of all our Jubilarians, we thank God for the gift of our Religious Salesian Vocation. God’s Spirit has been with us every step of the way. We also thank our heavenly Mother and Help of Christians. Sr. Kim Keraitis with her family from New Jersey.
Salesian CAMP! Report
Another Great Season, in 4 States & Canada
W
e did it! Another successful summer at Salesian Camps in New York, New Jersey, Louisiana, Florida, and in Canada, made possible by your generosity. This year more than 3,000 boys and girls had a fun, safe, and wholesome camp experience. The smiles on these pages speak volumes, as does the wonderful letter from Sadie, age 9. Special thanks to our many donors, including Bob Reiter, J&K Ingredients, Losurdo Foods, Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, Ybor City Rotary, and The Rinaldo Law Group.
8 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 4
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Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2018 • 9
News from Adopters Like You! Cecilia Cacciatore of Tampa, FL, traveled to Haledon, NJ, to celebrate her Aunt’s 90th birthday: Sr. Gloria Machado!
Thanks to her Adopter, John Joerger of Alexandria, VA, Sr. Mary Jackson used chopsticks for the very first time during a festive dinner at Koto Japanese Steakhouse in Tampa, FL. John treated Sr. Mary and Villa Madonna Sisters, Sr. Guerline Joseph, Sr. Theresa Lee, Sr. Joo Yun Park, and Sr. Nivia Arias.
Among our best ambassadors for the Adopt a Sister Program are the Catholic Daughters Court St. Anne #1622 of Lamar, CO, who have adopted Sr. Theresa Samson and Sr. Mary Rinaldi. “We are holding the beautiful pictures of the Blessed Mother, Mary Help of Christians,” reports Dixie Stokes. “I passed out the pictures and shared all other correspondence from you at our meeting. Each of you will be receiving a ‘Thank You’ card in appreciation.” No, Dixie: Thanks to all of YOU for your generous support!
10 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 4
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
ino every day think and pray for Sr. Frances Gum i, and Oss Ida along with Sisters Elsa Beccio, Joseph St. the at Rosalie Di Peri and all the Sisters ts visi my both Provincial Center, having enjoyed was Ida Sr. ers. Sist t with Sr. Frances and the residen in mel Car the Superior at Our Lady of Mt. t Holy Roseto, PA, when I received my Firs nces and Fra Communion instruction from Sr. Elsa. Sr. my Confirmation instruction from s, nce Fra Sr. Rosalie, as I was told by Sr. ism ech was most likely my Summer Cat school instructor. In the 1950’s the public rs hou 5 kids, as I was, received at least ing dur of catechism instruction weekly ed preparation for the above mention class ended use Sacraments. I say “at least,” beca ody said a word. nob and , when Sister was done teaching holic instruction the Cat ng stro I am fortunate to have had the ers, for your work. Sisters provided. God bless you, Sist Frank Romano, Pen Argyl, PA graders, sends his best. P.S. Robert, one of Sr. Frances’ 2nd
I
Please Join Us & Adopt a Sister!
P
lease consider joining our friends of all faiths who have experienced the transforming power of prayer and loving friendship with a Salesian Sister, every day of the year, through our Adopt a Sister Program. Whether the Adopted Sister is for yourself, a family member, or a friend in need of spiritual strength, you will find comfort knowing that your intentions will be remembered each day by your spiritual prayer partner. And it makes the PERFECT gift, especially for a wedding, Baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation – any occasion! Please complete the form below, visit us online: www.salesiansisters.org, or call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you, and God bless you!
CVV: _____________
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Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2018 • 11
Making Headlines Around the Province
T
he photo above represents the “Alpha and Omega” of missionary Salesian Sisters to our Province of St. Joseph. Mother Yvonne Reungoat, our Superior General, just sent to our Province the gift of a new missionary Sister: Sr. Hyunjoo Cecilia Park. She is originally from South Korea and will be studying English this year at Sussex Community College. Sr. Hyunjoo will be assigned to the Sacred Heart Center/Novitiate Community in Newton, NJ. She is pictured with Sr. Ida Grasso, a missionary who came from Italy in 1951 and has been professed 68 years. At right, our current missionary Salesian Sisters gathered for a group photo: Sr. Ines Molano (Colombia), Sr. Ida Grasso (Italy), Sr. Hyunjoo Cecilia Park (South Korea), Sr. Anna Ragogna (Italy), Sr. Amelia Callagarin (Italy), Sr. Livia Setti (Italy), and Sr. Catherine Novo (Italy). Not pictured: Sr. Mary Palladino (Italy). Except for Sr. Hyunjoo, these Sisters all came to the United States to serve in the 1950’s. God bless you all!
12 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 4
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
“Middle-Class Saints” Dear Friends ... A Message from Sr. Joanne
H
appy Summer! One of my greatest joys this first year of being Provincial was visiting our Sisters throughout the United States and Canada and seeing all the good being done by them along with their lay collaborators and young people! We are blessed to have so many who walk alongside us, living with generosity and dedication, our shared mission to the young. I was inspired to see so much holiness hidden in the “everyday.” A new experience I had this summer as Provincial was preparing reflections for the annual retreats. As religious Sisters, we have one week a year where we spend quality time with God. During the retreat, we take time to review our lives to see how God is challenging us to be more faithful Christian and consecrated women, as we live out our Salesian vocation within the Church. In preparing for the retreats I used some thoughts of Pope Francis from his Apostolic Exhortation, “Rejoice and Be Glad.” In chapter 1, Pope Francis speaks about the Saints that encourage and accompany, and says: “These witnesses may include our own mother, grandmothers, or loved ones. Their lives may not always have been perfect, yet even amid their faults and failings they kept moving forward and proved pleasing to the Lord.” With these words, Pope Francis is encouraging us to be faithful to the Universal Call to Holiness we all received at Baptism, and gives us examples of “Middle-Class Saints” – people like us! “Middle-Class Saints” are ordinary people who try their best to be open to whatever
God may be asking of them. It’s a kind of simple, earthly holiness St. Mary Mazzarello identified with, and a holiness we can all aim for. As I reflected on what Pope Francis was inspiring us to do, I realized that I am surrounded by “Saints,” 24/7! I would like to share some of the “Saints” I met this year as I traveled around the Province:
• In one of our communities we have a group of “parishioners” that attend daily Mass with us. Their example of being nourished daily with Jesus’ word and Sacrament inspires us (the Sisters) to be stronger in our prayer life. Some of our “Middle-Class Saints” have also gone to their eternal reward this year, leaving us the witness of their simple holiness:
• I met a young man, a junior in one of our high schools, whose father died after battling • One woman worked cancer. This young As I reflected for us many years in man was ready one of our schools. to give up his on what After battling cancer for education in order Pope Francis two years she told her to get a job to help children, “I’ve lived a support his family was inspiring us good life. I’m ready to since he was now to do, I realized go. May I continue to the man of the that I am live on through you.” house. Luckily, the school community surrounded • One of our young rallied and helped by “Saints,” teachers died three with tuition and months after being provided what the 24/7! diagnosed with cancer. family needed to go As the youth minister on with their lives without their father and husband. of our school, she witnessed to the joy of being in love with • In Canada, I met a mother of 11 Jesus, with life, and with her children who drives five of them work among young people. Her 45 minutes each way every Friday contagious smile and her evernight so her children can participate ready generosity to help those in in the youth club the Sisters need will live on in her family, provide. This mother also offers her friends, and students. services at our summer camp so her children can participate and be in a I am sure each of you, my friends, safe environment can think of the “Middle-Class Saints” that enrich your life. And • An eighth-grader in one of our don’t forget that, YOU, too, are schools was diagnosed with called to be among that number! brain cancer, and her parents are sustained through the prayers and A blessed and rest-filled continusacrifices that are being offered for ation of summer! Be sure of my their daughter. They live in faith prayers for you and your intentions. and hope and have been able to experience the little miracles that Sr. Joanne Holloman is the Superior this journey has given them. of the Province of St. Joseph.
Memorials
A Love That Lasts Forever
Received between June 1 and July 31, 2018
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.
Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of: ____ $20
____$15
$
Memorial for Tribute for
Louis Ricci Mrs. Rose Ricci
Joan McNulty Mr. & Mrs. Bob Parmegiani
Lillian Brunetti Wally L. Brunetti
Mary Jo Yates Mr. & Mrs. Robert F. Giles American Legion Post 138 Mr. Ronald K. Yates Ms. Chuck Fogarty Mr. & Mrs. Chris Person Mr. & Mrs. Nick Fallieras Mr. & Mrs. Chris Wilson Mr. & Mrs. Fred Fox, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Thomas J. Rouse Ardath & Steve Krist Julia Jones & Joseph Philipp
The Whitely’s Ms. Holly G. Delohery
Helen L. Puzio Kathy Adamczyk Rose Meskis Kathy Adamczyk
Give the gift that lasts forever.
____ $25
Sr. Lucy Balistrieri, FMA Mrs. Rose Ricci
Name – DECEASED Name – LIVING
Occasion Please send an acknowledgement to: Name Address My Name Address
Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
14 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 4
Robin Masullo Ednamay Fasano Robert McElroy Mrs. Jacqueline McElroy Charlotte K. Davis Mrs. Rose Ricci Annette Altamura Mr. Enzo I. Altamura John R. Glover Dr. Joe McAleer
Tributes Sr. Frances Gumino, FMA, 75th Anniversary Mrs. Laura Mannarino
Lilika Weinberger, 95th Birthday Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Calabria
Sr. Agatha Cosentino, FMA, 60th Anniversary Mrs. Laura Mannarino Mr. & Mrs. Fred A. Cairoli
Terri Hobbs Ms. Rene Gosman
Sr. Joanne Holloman, 40th Anniversary Mrs. Mary Ann Apoldo
Virginia Jones Ms. Louise Jones Jankovic
Sr. Lise Parent, 40th Anniversary Mrs. Laura Mannarino Ms. Joan Gourin Sr. Phyllis Neves, FMA Mr. Harold Anton Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA Mr. Harold Anton
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new or upgraded Partners Circle Members so far in 2018!
The fire which destroyed the Chapel at Mary Help of Christians Academy has underscored the vital importance of the Partners Circle Fund, enabling the Sisters to respond to an emergency. There are nine levels of membership, starting at $250, which are listed on these four 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.
Shown in RED
Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group in 2018, our 27th year? Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you!
Joseph J. McAleer, Sr.
Heritage Society
Major Bequests California Richard Meissner, Meissner Manufacturing
Florida Dorothy & Dr. Vincent Bagli Josie & Ray Campo
Anne & Joseph Garcia PC Mrs. Ann Lowry Murphey Angel Oliva Family The Dorothy Thomas Foundation
Indiana Mrs. Beatrice Lightfoot
New Jersey
Partners Circle “Stewards” Annual gift of $11,000 Florida Mr. & Mrs. James Millar
New Jersey Anonymous
Texas Mrs. Betty Turner
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The Carini Family Mr. Anthony Petrocelli Ms. Roberta Ruocco Ms. Celeste Tripi Mr. Vincent Waraske
New York Mrs. Pearl Kalikow
Tony Amato Family
Partners Circle “Partners” Annual gift of $5,500 Florida
Mr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor PC Mrs. Beverly Rohde
New Jersey Mr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis In memory of Mr. & Mrs. C.H. Church, Jr. Joanne & Al Daloisio Mr. Robert Harkins PC
Mr. Bill McLaughlin PC Christopher & Corinne Schiavo & The Shepherd and the Knucklehead Pub Joseph & Rita Weiner
Welcome New 2018 Members in RED!
20 Welcome
Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle
T
he Partners Circle was founded in 1991 to provide unrestricted funds for urgent needs of the Salesian Sisters and their mission. These include support for capital needs, scholarship assistance, technology upgrades, and funds for those unforeseen situations that require immediate attention. Your annual contribution to this fund empowers the Sisters to continue their mission: To Provide Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and to the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life.
New York Mr. John Cassara Beruta & James Dell’Orto
Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2018 • 15
Welcome New 2018 Members in RED!
Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle
Partners Circle “Friends” Annual gift of $3,300
PC = denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees
Connecticut
New Jersey
Mary Bridget Gaine
Mario & Arline Monaco
Florida
Pennsylvania
Dr. Idalia Lastra
Christopher & Gemma Chong Mr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow
Partners Circle “Founders” Annual gift of $2,200 Connecticut
Massachusetts
New York
New Jersey
Jordon Carroll Mr. Ian H. Graham Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala
Mr. Michael Guarnieri PC Christina & David McAleer PC
Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair PC
Florida
Marilyn & Dale Livi Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Massood Mr. & Mrs. Michael Massood Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Papetti Rose Perone Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer PC Maria Sturchio
Mr. & Mrs. Cooper Carlisle John & Pat Connors Anthony & Diana Ekonomou Lowry Murphey Family Foundation Mrs. Kathleen Medore Mr. & Mrs. Mark Oliva PC
Pennsylvania In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA
South Carolina Mr. & Mrs. Tom Aldinger
Partners Circle “Benefactors” Annual gift of $1,100 Arizona
Gene & Linda Perez Mr. Charles B. Schmalz Mr. Nick Suszynski PC
Mrs. Ann Marie Forster
California
Georgia
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Obenberger
Mr. Robert Reiter
Connecticut
Linda & Peter Christiansen PC Dr. Joseph McAleer PC Mr. & Mrs. Salvatore Zichichi
Mr. & Mrs. Neil Holmes
Florida
Ms. Marianne O’Doherty
Joseph & Claudine Caballero PC Terrell & Joe Clark Dr. Andrea & Sean Farrier PC Aida Yglesias Jurado Mr. & Mrs. Jim Major Dr. Patricia Mergo Mr. & Mrs. Frank Middendorf Robert Nocek Lydia & John Oliva Mr. Fredy Padovan
Massachusetts Missouri New Jersey Ms. Debi F. Debiak Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Della Cerra Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann James Construction Co., Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Anthony M. Laino Mr. James Lane Michael & Mary Losurdo
16 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 4
Mrs. Faith Menard Mrs. Maureen O’Halloran A.J. & Mindy Papetti Robert & Constance Sumas Mrs. Carolyn Young
New York Ms. Lea Battiato Jo Ann & Joseph Caracappa PC Anthony & Geraldine Dell’Orto John W. Lombardi & Family The Sabatine Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Silveri
North Carolina Chester & Monica Michewicz
Pennsylvania Mr. & Mrs. Bob Danch Dr. Allyson & Mr. Kevin Hardy
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Florida
New Jersey
Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria PC Declan & Paula Mansfield Anne & Fred Michaels Rene & Phyllis Rodriguez Mr. & Mrs. Terry Wood
Mr. & Mrs. George Pavlik Theresa E. Unanue
South Carolina Sandra M. Freeman
The Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle provides Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life.
Partners Circle “Members” Annual gift of $550 Arizona Anonymous
California Joanne & Geraldine Rizzuto
Connecticut Mr. & Mrs. Edward Goin Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey Anonymous
Florida Dr. Kenneth Alonso Mr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, in memory of Ana Maria Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr. PC Mrs. Trudy Carey Dr. & Mrs. Antonio Castro Mrs. Leslie Garcia PC Mr. & Mrs. Luis Garcia PC Dr. Giacomo & Mrs. Judy Guggino Mr. & Mrs. Rob Obbink Ms. Maria Restrepo-Forte Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds Alina M. Roces Rudy Rodriguez Hon. & Mrs. E.J. Salcines PC Mr. & Mrs. David Smith Ms. Maria C. Torreiro Ron Yates
Georgia Mr. Charles Fantauzza
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Illinois The Mills Family Adelaide Olivieri
Indiana Andrea Dealynn
Louisiana Mr. & Mrs. George LeBlanc
Massachusetts Ms. Josephine Petrillo Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading
New Jersey Tiziana Anello, M.D. Larry & Mary Anne Condit Ms. Anita Cronk John J. Eccleston Mr. & Mrs. Michael G. Ferrito Dr. & Mrs. Louis Gambetta PC Joann Giamonco Teresa Gutto Laura Cosentino Mannarino Dr. Kerry R. McMahon Mrs. Diva Muller Mrs. Christine Peragallo E.N. Sarantis
New York Michael & Jeanette Altamura Mr. & Mrs. Jack Betwarda Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Clair Mrs. Rose Mary Clair Ms. Claire Dell
Mr. Walter Lazarcheck Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec
North Carolina Mr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard
Ohio Mr. & Mrs. Dale Kovach Dr. & Mrs. George H. McAfee
Pennsylvania Mr. & Mrs. Brian Clair Ms. Kate Clair Barbara (Levings) Hedgecock Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski
South Carolina Mr. & Mrs. John Bedlek
Tennessee Mr. Terence P. Clair
Virginia Mrs. Dominique Faust Dr. Evelyn Garcia & Michael Maurer Karl & Laura Zauner
Welcome New 2018 Members in RED!
Annual gift of $825
OUR MISSION
Salesian Sisters’ Partners Circle
Partners Circle “Associates”
Washington Mr. Keiran C. Clair
Washington, DC Ms. Arina Grossu PC
Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2018 • 17
Welcome New 2018 Members in RED!
Partners Circle “Quarter Century Club” Annual gift of $250 California Mr. Richard Suda Rev. Paula T. Webb
Connecticut In memory of John R. Glover Mrs. Eileen G. Hahnenkratt Mr. Patrick J. Waide, Jr. Anonymous
Florida Mr. & Mrs. Jon Barry Kurt & Laura Badertscher Mr. & Mrs. Manuel Fernandez Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Fierman Mr. & Mrs. Edward Gomez, Jr. Mrs. Elsa Gutierrez-Janulonis Amy & Kevin Jarman Mr. & Mrs. John Mangin, Jr. John H. & Pauline Pedrero Mr. and Mrs. Paul Schmid
New York
Mr. & Mrs. Richard Stowers Jim & Rita (Zoppo) Vietmeier
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Collison Mr. & Mrs. Charles V. Curcio Megan & J.T. Hunt Ms. Peggeann Larywon Mrs. Carolyn Mesler
New Hampshire Mr. & Mrs. Thomas DiMicelli
New Jersey Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Amatuzzi Collins & Hogan Families Mr. & Mrs. David Hess Theodore & Lynda Leo Ms. Mary Bernadette Mazauskas Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Nowak Gregory & Stephanie Monaco Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Obetz Mrs. Mary Ann Ryan Anna & Richard Spalckhaver Mr. & Mrs. Michael Testa Karla T. Villarin Mr. Edward M. Zambrano
Ohio Anonymous
Pennsylvania Mr. & Mrs. Fred A. Cairoli Mrs. Judith Falcone Lichty Mrs. Eileen Seeburger
South Carolina Elizabeth Craig & Michael Reeves, Jr.
Tennessee Mr. & Mrs. Robert Greenwell
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ongratulations to the hard-working committee members who organized the 8th annual Fr. Peter M. Rinaldi, SDB Awards Dinner, a fundraiser for Corpus Christi-Holy Rosary School in Port Chester, NY. This year’s honorees included past principal, Sr. Karen Dunn; Missy and Bart Didden; and Emily Saunders. A grand time for a good cause was had by all at Willow Ridge Country Club in Harrison, NY. (Photo by John Raiola)
18 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 4
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
On the Journey with Sister B
It’s a beautiful mission, isn’t it?
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stood next to her, wondering if she remembered me. She still had the same long braids and the dark, soulful eyes that I remember gazing up at me years ago. I’d known her since she was in the youngest group of campers; now she was the in the oldest, at eye level with me. She glanced at me, a glimmer of recognition in her eyes, and I said to her, “Do you remember me?” Pausing for a second, she gave me the tiniest of smiles. “Yes, I remember you.” Taking the smile as an invitation, I stepped closer and said, “I remember you every day, and wonder how you’re doing. You’ve always been one of my favorite campers. I never forget you.” I could see the words pour over her like a balm, her muscles relaxing and her smile widening. I risked a joke: “Although I have to say, you always wore me out with all of your antics!” She laughed. To say she had been a handful would be an understatement. Although I am not assigned to a summer camp this year, I find myself stealing away moments to see the children, talk to them, visit with my former campers turned counselors, and listen to their struggles. I watch one little girl smack her friend in line, following it with a mischievous grin to get her attention. Another little boy pouts because he doesn’t like the swim trunks his mother packed, and a set of twins run circles around a table, giggling at and exhausting their counselor who is trying to put swim caps on their heads. Taking this in, I reflect on the saying, “Children often ask for love in the most unloving ways.”
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Sometimes it’s easier to be patient and understanding with the “unloving ways” children ask for love because they are usually cute or we have some sense of obligation to care for the “young ones” among us. When it comes to teenagers and adults, however, we can have very little tolerance for their unloving demands for love. I recall hearing a teenager yell in a frustrated rage, “I hate
I said to her, “Do you remember me?” Pausing for a second, she gave me the tiniest of smiles. “Yes, I remember you.” you!” to a parent dropping them off at school because they didn’t get their way, the parent calling out from the car window, “Well, I love you anyway!” Hours later the student ran up to the same parent in the pick-up line, having forgotten their morning tirade, and, relieved to have a ride home, bursting out, “Hi Mom! What’s for dinner?” I could only shake my head and marvel at the mother’s grace in seeing her child’s cry for love underneath her biting morning declaration. As an adult, our family members, co-workers, and just general people we meet can demand love in unpleasant ways. Sometimes I have an opportunity to address this when I am traveling. As a Sister in a habit, I often feel like a roving curiosity, cognizant of the fact that I end up texted in many
photos with the caption, “You won’t believe what I saw at the airport!” Yes, believe it! I have had people both gush over their fond memories of Catholic school and dump on me their pain and anger over injustices they’ve suffered, both groups asking for love, care, and validation. Mother Teresa was right when she shared, “We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked, and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved, and uncared for is the greatest poverty.” So many people I meet just want to be acknowledged, told they are lovable, and cared for in the simplest of ways, even if it’s just holding a door for them or smiling at their scowl. As Salesian Sisters, we don’t always know the entire story of the children who pass through our doors, but we get to write the narrative when they are with us. We have the power to answer their unloving demands for love with the right kind of affection that will enrich some of their deepest interior poverty. It’s not an easy task, but it is what Jesus asks of us, all of us, and I am grateful for all our friends and benefactors who help make little interactions possible. Person by person, child by child, we try to share God’s love, especially with those who ask for it in unloving ways. It’s a beautiful mission, isn’t it? – Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA Sr. Brittany is the Campus Minister and Theology Department Chair at Mary Help of Christians Academy.
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Salesian Youth Report MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – This summer, 34 Mary Help juniors and seniors embarked on the trip of a lifetime, exploring seven of Italy’s greatest cities, including Rome, where they toured the Colosseum (right), and Venice, where they
waited patiently to board a gondola (left). The group experienced and learned about ancient architecture, sculpture, Italy’s culture and its people. Mary Help, with EF Tours, organizes this trip every two years to let students experience the beautiful country where our Salesian Charism was born. Ciao, a presto Italia!
VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, TAMPA, FL – Every year, Villa Madonna’s Spanish teacher, Roxana Harst, not only teaches, but puts together an incredible production that includes every student in the school. From the threeyear-olds singing and dancing all the way up to the eighth graders who help with the sound system, lighting, and are the backstage crew, the play is one-of-a-kind and a testament to the love of all involved. Parents help with costumes and building the set based on Roxana’s vision. This year’s production of “Peter Pan” was the best yet!
Above, Peter Pan (Emma Do, 6th grade), John (Ben Kantor, 7th grade), Michael (Harry Kantor, 3rd grade), and Wendy (Julia Dean, 7th grade) practice “flying” during the dress rehearsal. At left, the entire school joins Peter Pan to sing “Neverland.” We were delighted that Charley Belcher (above) of Fox Tampa Bay NewsChannel 13 came to film the rehearsal for his daily morning segment, “Charley’s World.” Thanks, Charley! You’re welcome anytime!
20 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXVI • Issue 4
Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS
Salesian Youth Report ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, MARRERO, LA – Three cheers for the Academy of Our Lady Bowling Team, the Louisiana High School Athletic Association State Champions! The team won the tournament at All Star Lanes in Baton Rouge, the first State win in Academy of Our Lady’s short history! Academy principal Sr. Michelle Geiger, FMA, joins team members, head coach Robert Chauvin (front row), and Athletic Director Scott Walker (back row). Congratulations all! Below, 15 Academy students and alumnae participated in the annual Salesian service retreat, “Gospel Roads.” Hosted by the Salesian Youth Ministry Office in New York, Gospel Roads is an opportunity for young people ages 16-23 to service others within the community. New Orleans is one of three locations Gospel Roads was held this summer. Following the completion of service each day, participants took part in prayer and reflection. Here students sorted Mardi Gras beads at ARC of Greater of New Orleans.
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Partners in Giving • Late Summer 2018 • 21
Salesian Youth Report
ST. THERESA SCHOOL, KENILWORTH, NJ – Learning is never boring at St. Theresa’s! Mrs. Sacco’s fourth-grade computer class, including (above left) Bryce Mays, Ryan Williams, and Arielle Lopins, enjoyed a class of unplugging and coding with cups. Using a special set of offline commands, students designed algorithms to instruct a “robot” to stack cups in different patterns. Students then took turns as the robot, responding only to the algorithm defined by their peers. Cool! Meanwhile, Mrs. Morgese’s fifth-grade class completed the L.E.A.D (Law Enforcement Against Drugs) classes with Detective Brian Pickton from the Kenilworth Police Department. Detective Pickton presented awards to essay winners, Alina Witynski and Adrian Martinez (above right) for their outstanding writing assignments.
IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, MIAMI, FL – “Shrek the Musical” was the spring production at Immaculata-La Salle, and the students put on a spectacular performance, acting, singing, and dancing. Assembling for a curtain call above are Shrek (Claudio Pietrobelli, Grade 11), Fiona (Sophia Barreto, Grade 10), Donkey (Elena Torrens, Grade 12), and Dragon (Elizabeth Pacheco, Grade 11). Special thanks to director and drama teacher, Lianne Rodriguez, and music teacher, Daniel Escudero, for their creativity and inspiration!
Please Give Us Your Special Day!
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o you have a happy occasion you would like to share? The Salesian Sisters will celebrate with you on “your” day. Is it a time to remember a less-thanhappy occasion? Our prayer for this day will accompany this event in your life. Have you someone to thank? All of us will help multiply this gratitude to that special person. Is there a special person or event to bring to the attention of your friends? Then please “Give Us This Day”! Any event, person, situation that merits special attention will be publicized on a bulletin board outside our chapel. All the Sisters will pray for that intention on that day. Let this exchange of time be an example of our love for one another. Thank you, and God bless you!
Give Us This
Day
Ready, set ... blow out the candles! Sr. Gloria Machado celebrated her 90th birthday on July 4 at the St. Joseph Provincial Center in Haledon, NJ, with a little help from her Provincial, Sr. Joanne Holloman, and a room full of well-wishers, including special visitors from Tampa, FL: her sister Carmen, nephew Edward, and nieces Cecilia and Maria!
Please give us this day/these days in 2018 or 2019 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 • Late Summer 2018 • 23
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Province of St. Joseph Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397
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Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage P A I D Hanover, NH Permit No. 8
magine Sr. Colleen Clair’s surprise when, after a minor fender-bender in Clifton, NJ, a Coptic Orthodox priest from New York City emerged from the car in front of her! Coptic Christians are the tradition in Egypt, where Sr. Colleen served for two years. Sr. Colleen Clair and Fr. Gregory Saroufeem both saw God’s hand in the “accident.” They have since become Facebook friends and are looking at how they can work together on services to young people. “God often takes us where we need to go, and sometimes, He uses our own weakness to show us the way,” Sr. Colleen says. After insurance claims were filed and the police were called, the two posed for this picture taken by the police officer.