Partners in Giving - Late Summer 2023

Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s letter

Dear Friends,

Salesians on parade! On our cover, Sr. Katie Flanagan leads boys and girls and their counselors on a patriotic Fourth of July march through the beautiful grounds of Camp Auxilium in Newton, NJ. Another successful Salesian summer camp season has concluded, and as you will see in the photos on pages 9-13, our kids had a ball! We are so very grateful to the donors who made this wholesome, fun, and very Salesian experience possible.

This is a happy issue for many other reasons, too! We have a new Provincial Superior, Sr. Colleen Clair, FMA, who introduces herself in her inaugural column on the opposite page. And the celebration for our 2023 Jubilarians was festive and grand! See pages 4-5.

Now comes one of the happiest times for us in the Province of St. Joseph: a new school year! From New York to Ohio, New Jersey to Louisiana and Florida, and across Canada, Sisters are taking on a sacred challenge: to provide a safe and nurturing environment for our young people to learn, grow, and become the very best that they can be. In everything we do, we recall the words of St. John Bosco: “Remember that education is a matter of the heart.”

Peace,

PARTNERS IN GIVIN G

is a bimonthly magazine published by the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office

659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508

Telephone: (973) 904-0102

Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS

E-mail: partners@salesiansisters.org

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Editorial Board

Dr. Joe McAleer, Editor

Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of Development

Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA, Editorial Manager Theresa Anderson and Anna Anderson, Copy Editors

© 2023 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc.

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Sr. April Hoffman, currently studying in Rome, assisted at the Vatican City summer camp for the 250 children of the employees of the Vatican. She was blessed to meet Pope Francis. WOW!

Our new Provincial Superior Our faith grows with use!

Greetings! I am Sr. Colleen, and this is my first contribution to Partners in Giving as the new Provincial Superior of our Eastern U.S. and Canada Province, the Province of St. Joseph.

As I transition into this new position, I am thinking a great deal about faith – the faith I will need to serve in this role, and the faith that I hope will be bolstered by your prayers at the same time.

Faith is a gift from Baptism that grows with use. Like playing the piano, it needs to be practiced frequently and challenged by difficulty.

I can’t help but think of our music maestro, Sr. Mary Ann Caspary, FMA. She once told me that she started playing the piano at a very early age by listening, and then trying to recreate what she heard – much as children learn and recite the words to prayers (prayers whose meanings are typically a mystery to them). Sr. Mary Ann’s talent on the ivories is quite formidable, and she achieved it through diligent practice, and by learning more and more difficult pieces. She continues to develop her talent by playing and practicing regularly.

We need to practice our faith with the same dedication as Sr. Mary Ann practices the piano. Our faith is the foundation upon which everything else is based. Without practice, it will languish. With practice, though, it will strengthen and grow – it, too, will become formidable.

I dabble in music myself, although not at the same level. On the rare occasion when I feel something is amiss, I play or listen to music, even for a short time. It feeds my spirit in a way that only the arts can.

Likewise, when I feel myself floundering, I pick up my Rosary or head to the chapel to immerse myself in the loving presence of God. Sitting before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, the source and summit of our

Catholic faith, allows me to see the world with fresh eyes. My faith in Jesus is a source of solace and strength. How often the faith of you, our Partners, has been an inspiration to me and to the Salesian Sisters – I anticipate you may not realize your effect on us. Every lay person I’ve ever spoken to is surprised to hear how much the way they live their lives in faith fortifies us in our vocation. They hold the Sisters in such high regard that learning that they impact our lives of faith as we do theirs is a revelation.

Like our faith, religious life, by nature, is eschatological. It has to do with Death, Judgment, Heaven, and Hell – in a nutshell, it points to the things to come. So, where married people say, “‘Til death do we part,” religious Sisters say to Our Lord, “‘Til death do we meet.” Both are commitments of love – one starts with faith.

Speaking of religious vows, we just welcomed three new professed Salesian Sisters into our Province: Sr. Juliana Alfonso, FMA; Sr. Jessica Castillo, FMA; and Sr. Pamela Rose Suresca, FMA (watch for photos in the next issue). As the largest order in the world, we regularly witness hundreds of Salesian Sisters take their vows annually. How grateful we are that our order continues to flourish!

Faith is not only the primary gift we receive, it is one of the three theological virtues – faith, hope, and love. Next time, let’s explore the virtue of hope. Until then, I leave you in the loving heart and hands of Our Lady.

– Sr. Colleen Clair, FMA

How often the faith of you, our Partners, has been an inspiration to me and to the Salesian Sisters! Every lay person I’ve ever spoken to is surprised to hear how much the way they live their lives in faith fortifies us in our vocation.

Congratulations, Sisters, on your blessed Jubilees!

Alovely June weekend in North Haledon, NJ, offered us the opportunity to celebrate our 2023 Jubilarian Sisters:

Sr. Eileen Joseph (65 years)

Sr. Fanny Florez (60 years)

Sr. Alphonsine Basque (60 years)

Sr. Monique Huart (60 years)

Sr. Francine Guilmette (50 years)

Sr. Maryann Schaefer (40 years)

A solemn Mass in St. Joseph Chapel was followed by a festive lunch at Mary Help of Christians Academy.

We thank our Sisters for their fidelity, which totals an amazing 335 years of service! God bless you, Sisters! You are truly an inspiration!

At left, Sr. Fanny Florez is all smiles with the Velasco family and friends as she celebrates her 60th jubilee.

Above, Sr. Joanne Holloman, Provincial Superior (center, rear) joins our 2023 Jubilarians: Sr. Maryann Schaefer, Sr. Eileen Joseph, Sr. Fanny Florez, Sr. Monique Huart. Sr. Francine Guilmette, and Sr. Alphonsine Basque.

The Jubilarians renew their vows during Mass in St. Joseph Chapel.

Sr. Eileen Joseph bubbles over with excitement!

At right, Sr. Monique Huart (center) is congratulated by Rebecca Metzger, Director of Campus Ministry at St. Francis de Sales High School in Columbus, OH; Sr. Loretta De Domenicis; Dan Garrick, St. Francis de Sales’ Principal; Sr. Joo Yun Park; and Sr. Guerline Joseph.

Now more than ever 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, First Holy Communion, Confirmation – any occasion!

Please complete the form below, visit www.salesiansisters. org, or call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you, and God bless you!

CVV: _____________

Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS

Sr. Eileen Joseph joins her long-time friend, Sr. Domenica Di Peri, at the Jubilee celebration.

The gang’s all here! The month of June brings the annual opportunity for the Salesian Sisters to gather for their Summer Assembly. Reports on various ministries and activities in the Province are accompanied by good food, time to reconnect with each other, and lively games and sharing. Since this was Sr. Joanne Holloman’s last assembly as Provincial Superior, she was given a special thank-you by the Sisters as she transitions to her new role as Directress of Novices, the role she held prior to becoming Provincial Superior.

The Assembly concluded with a group photo of those who were able to attend in person on the steps of Sacred Heart Hall, next to our new St. Joseph Chapel. The Sisters were joined by the Aspirants and Novices. Our elderly Sisters in the St. Joseph Provincial Center down the hill were there in spirit. Everyone say, “Salesian!”

Another fantastic Salesian Summer Camp season is 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 kids enjoyed a fun, safe, and wholesome camp experience in New York, New Jersey, Louisiana, Florida, and Canada. 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 are delighted to share this letter from one of our donors:

Dear Sr. Mary:

Once again, I am glad to be able to sponsor another child in need of summer renewal at the summer camp. I was able to attend about 70 years ago! Memories of Sr. Domenica Di Peri and Sr. Jean Rusica around the campfire are still with me, along with another image of a spring where we drank the coldest and most refreshing water I had ever tasted. I believe there was a statue of the Blessed Mother there. Am I recalling accurately?

It brings me joy to know that one more child will experience the faith-filled and joyful camp days provided by my favorite Sisters.

– Annette C. Lewis Alumna of the former Mary Help of Christians School, 11th Street, New York City

A Love That Lasts Forever

You can honor a cherished relative or friend with an everlasting gift of love – a memorial.

Our Partners in Giving Memorials & Tributes give you the opportunity to comfort those who have lost a loved one or to commemorate a special occasion.

This gift lives forever, joining our loved ones to the prayers of the Salesian Sisters while supporting their good works.

The name of your loved one will appear in our Partners in Giving magazine – a priceless gift to those you love.

Give the gift that lasts forever.

Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of:

____ $25 ____ $20 ____$15 $ Memorial for Tribute for Occasion

Name – DECEASED Name –

Please send an acknowledgement to:

Name Address

Memorials

Received between June 7 and July 31, 2023

Agnes Polizzi

Ms. Rosalie & Grace Polizzi

Anonymous

Ms. Tina Bazzano

Louis D. Arthur

Ms. Anne Arthur

Lillian Brunetti

Mr. Wally Brunetti

Caridad Romero

Ms. Caridad Perricelli

Leonardo Romero

Ms. Caridad Perricelli

Colin Patrick Reilly

Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Chambers

Michael Gallo

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Joseph Garsick

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George Holloman

Mrs. Jim Apoldo

Jean TheLosen

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Ms. Diane Harget

Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Koscica

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Lucy Portuese Proto & Elizabeth

Mr. Crispin Proto

Luigi Marciante, Jr.

My Name Address

Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope. Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS

Mr. & Mrs. Luigi Marciante

Mary K. Fox

Mr. & Mrs. Pat Barrese

Ms. Elizabeth Moloney

Mr. Daniel Gallo

Nancy & Gene Ceccarelli

Joe & Honey Clair

Mr. Thomas Olsen

Deacon Jim Puliatte

Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Passante, Sr.

Dr. Joan Marie Kelly

Dr. Joe McAleer

Tributes

Received between June 6 and July 31, 2023

Britnay Rose Upman

Ms. Caridad Perricelli

Sr. Fanny Florez, FMA on her 60th Anniversary

Mrs. Joan Lantka

Mr. William Barone

Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Bonfiglio

Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA

Ms. Josephine Rinaldi

The Salesian Sisters Partners Circle was founded in 1991 to provide unrestricted funds for urgent needs of the Salesian Sisters and their mission. These include support for capital needs, scholarship assistance, technology upgrades, and funds for those unforeseen situations that require immediate attention. 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.

32nd 32nd

The fire which destroyed St. Joseph Chapel in North Haledon, NJ, in 2018 underscored the vital importance of the Partners Circle Fund, enabling the Sisters to respond quickly in an emergency and begin the rebuilding process – now complete!

There are 8 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. Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group in our 32nd year? Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you and God bless you!

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Please “Give Us This Day”!

Our exchange of love

Do you have a happy occasion you would like to share? The Salesian Sisters will celebrate with you for an entire month. Is it a time to mark a less-than-happy occasion? Our prayer for 30 days will commemorate 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, or situation that merits special attention will be posted outside our chapel. The Sisters will pray for that intention and for the person who requests prayers for the day, and whose sacrificial gift supports the endowment for our retired Sisters.

Let this exchange of time be an example of our concern and love for one another. Know that you are special to us. Our prayers rise daily for you and your dear ones.

Thank you, and God bless you!

Please give us this day/these days in 2023 in honor of my special request(s):

Our Jubilarian Sisters, with Fr. Pascual Chávez, SDB, and Sr. Joanne Holloman, FMA (second from right).

Who wants to get wet?! Sr. Eileen Tickner and our Vocation Director, Sr. Elfie Del Rosario, that’s who!

The dynamic Salesian duo participated in a week-long camp with more than 350 high school students from 11 parishes and five states, held at the LifeTeen Covecrest Camp in Georgia. The theme was “The Real Presence,” and young people encountered Jesus through the Sacraments, Adoration, team-building activities, personal prayer time, and enjoying God’s creation outdoors.

Above, that’s Sr. Elfie in the middle, whitewater rafting with young people from St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Pembroke Pines, FL.

A time-honored tradition: the Senior Prom at Mary Help of Christians Academy, held at Macaluso’s Banquet Hall on May 30.

ST. FRANCIS DE SALES HIGH SCHOOL, Columbus, OH – Lifting her voice in song, Sr. Monique Huart (celebrating her 60th jubilee this year) plays beautiful music for young people at the summer Bible camp. More than 40 kids attended and enjoyed Bible lessons, games, and fun activities that deepened their faith and enriched their summer break.

MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, North Haledon, NJ – The Mary Help of Christians Academy Family is very excited as the Athletic Center dream is coming to fruition! The ribbon cutting will be on Friday, September 8 at 7:00 p.m. in the former locker section (lower level of Sacred Heart Hall).

The Athletic Center will boast cardio and weightlifting machines as well as a section of turf to allow for indoor practice of field sports. A full-time athletic trainer will oversee everything to make sure the students are safely and appropriately using the equipment to improve their skills as athletes and their health.

SALESIAN YOUTH CENTER, Tampa, FL – In early June, Rick Fee, Chairman of the Salesian Youth Center (SYC) board, brought his friends Anthony Perez and Sharon DeLong from BayFirst Financial Bank for a tour. There they heard of the desperate need for computers in the computer lab. The 25 computers were around 15 years old, and many weren’t working, even after many repairs. The same issue was happening in Villa Madonna School’s computer lab. That evening, Anthony Perez, Senior Vice President at BayFirst, met with Tony Selvaggio, founder and CEO of eSmart Recycling, a Tampa-based IT and computer recycling company, to make a plan.Together they donated 50 computers, 25 for SYC, and 25 for Villa Madonna! The computers arrived on July 13, with BayFirst Financial employees (above) helping with setup. A few days later they returned with their mascot, Cash the dog (right), who teaches kids about financial literacy.

“Through partnerships like this, we can allow children and families to leave their digital footprint and make a global impact through technology,” says Tony Salvaggio. “We were honored to partner with BayFirst to support this great program located in our backyard and serve the amazing youth and families.”

Thank you, BayFirst Financial and eSmart Recycling! We are grateful for your support and friendship!

The splendid new computer labs in the Salesian Youth Center (left) and Villa Madonna School (above).

ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, Marrero, LA – “St. John Bosco said, ‘Run! Jump! Play, but do not sin!’ – so, we need to provide our young people some place where they can go and have fun,” said Sr. Michelle Geiger, principal (above), as the ribbon was cut on the amazing new playground, “Penguin Park,” on July 12. Tarped to provide as much shade as possible, the playground has a thick layer of soft and cushy rubber mulch for safe landings. A Vistastar Rope System (below) challenges youngsters to safely climb a “spider web” that rises to a height of 19 feet. And the double slide (right) is Sr. Michelle’s favorite – and Sr. Nicole Daly’s, too!

SALESIAN SCHOOLS !

VILLA MADONNA CAMPUS, Tampa, FL – It sure was a hot summer, but kids at the Salesian Youth Center didn’t mind at all, having a ball at the new playground. You, the community, watched, waited, and supported the efforts to clean up Villa’s North end of the campus. Thank you! Although construction of the Villa Pavilion and Renovation project is complete, we still need to raise the funds needed to pay the last bills. You can help us cross the finish line and put smiles on the Sisters’ faces when they say, “We’re done!” To make a donation, please visit www.villapavilion.com or call Theresa Anderson: 813-205-3195. Thank you!

ST. THERESA SCHOOL, Kenilworth, NJ – Who wants to be a pilot? The second grade class made their own paper airplanes and used DIY yardsticks to measure the distance. Noelle Mendoza was the winner, flying her plane 26 feet across the cafeteria! Now it’s time for these kids to soar into Grade 3!