Sharing & Caring Summer 2014

Sharing & Caring Volume 25 Number 1 • Summer 2014 Sisters of the Precious Blood • Dayton, Ohio • www.preciousbloodsistersdayton.org

Celebrating our

Jubilarians

From the President’s Desk

God's work

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ith this issue of Sharing and Caring, you will find stories about our Sisters not only in mission and ministry, but also those who are celebrating their jubilees. On the last day of our annual Spirit Days gathering, usually held on or close to the feast of the Precious Blood on July 1, we honor those Sisters who have reached the benchmarks of diamond (75 & 60), golden (50), and silver (25) anniversaries. Prayer together, a lovely and lively celebration of the Eucharistic Liturgy and a banquet all offer opportunities to exchange stories, hugs, gifts and affirmation.

This year, our Jubilee celebration took on a different meaning for me as I was among those Sisters celebrating their golden jubilees. Although every year I acknowledge the anniversary of my entrance into the Sisters of the Precious Blood, that 50th anniversary gave me cause to pause. As we gathered to celebrate, I looked more closely at my classmates as they are now. I saw women with a remarkable resemblance to the young adults who came fresh faced and idealistic to the postulate in 1964, though now those faces are touched with laugh lines, and their bodies, like mine, exhibit hitches and twitches when getting up after a long meal or car ride, or walking up the steps to chapel. That idealism, so much a part of our becoming Sisters of the Precious Blood, is now tempered and grounded with 2

Sharing & Caring

life experiences of all kinds.

Most of us started out in one ministry only to find God’s call bringing us to many and varied life tasks, some anticipated with joy, others tolerated, all supported by prayer and community Although we have changed both inside and outside, our commitment has only grown stronger and more enduring.

As I continued my reflection on 50 years as a Sister of the Precious Blood and all that we Sisters have done it is evident, as our constitutions say, “that the work is not ours, but God’s” (Our Way of Life, par.

24). As you see from the biographies, most of us in the Class of ‘64 started out as teachers and remarkably one has persevered in this important ministry over all these years.

The rest of us have been taking a variety of paths following God’s call. We have an author and internationally known lecturer who has a doctorate in sacred theology, a missionary from the United States who has spent years in Chile and a Sister native to Chile who has served in formation and given retreats internationally, two of us have served in congregational leadership, several have either ministered in parishes and/or dioceses, given workshops and/or done spiritual direction, been campus ministers and/or companioned the elderly. To add variety, our deceased classmate had a doctorate in high energy physics and taught at the University of

Michigan in Flint. If I added all the ministries of members of the other classes, I would run out of room. Yet all of us know deep in our hearts that in the end it is God who has accomplished all these works and served all those people.

As I look into the faces of my classmates, I am drawn to eyes that have seen so much suffering, so much joy, so many changes and so much support.

And looking deeper still, I see a reflection of the One who is the source of their great peace.

We acknowledge that while our bodies suffer the decline of aging, our spirits soar more easily, rest more tranquilly, abide more fully in the God who called us into being, who sustains us in our living and loving and who companions us faithfully on our way to perfect union for all eternity.

May our next 50 years be as fulfilling. 

Sister Joyce Lehman President, Sisters of the Precious Blood

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t a cousin’s wedding, right after the vows were exchanged, the organist performed Noel Paul Stookey’s “The Wedding Song" (There is Love). Though that was nearly 25 years ago, the same song is still used at Christian weddings because it fits the ceremony so well.

There is something inspiring about God being at the center of a couple’s commitment to each other as they leave the life they’ve known to enter into something more fulfilling.

That same sentiment exists for members of religious communities as well. If you ask a woman or man religious to share the appeal of religious life, they will often point out two key factors: prayer and community. They will tell you that prayer gives them the strength to carry on in their ministry and brings them into a deeper, loving relationship with God. It’s at the center of their lives. Community provides support and companionship. Even if a member lives and ministers alone, a loving hand or someone to talk with

Established in 1989, Sharing & Caring is published quarterly by the Sisters of the Precious Blood, Dayton, Ohio, to communicate news of the congregation, Precious Blood Spirituality, and to promote the sisters’ mission.

All editorial content and photographs in Sharing & Caring are copyrighted. For reprint permission, please contact the editor.

is only a phone call away.

With the Sisters of the Precious Blood, community is best seen during the annual Spirit Days and Jubilee celebration. Part reunion, part business meeting and part socialization, the annual event brings Sisters from across the United States, Chile and Guatemala back to Dayton.

Watching these Sisters interact, one can see the true joy they have for each other and their work. The smiles give it away.

In this issue of Sharing & Caring you see those smiles through the images and words of Spirit Days and this year’s jubilarians. We introduce you to the 12 Sisters who are celebrating milestone jubilees in 2014. Together these women have provided nearly 700 years of Christian witness — an impressive feat, indeed!

One of our jubilarians, Virginia Hebbeler shares her unique experience of receiving holy communion from thenPope John Paul II during a 1987 papal Mass in Phoenix, Arizona, where she ministered for more than 20 years. A native of Cincinnati, Sister Virginia talks CPPS Mission Statement Urged by the redeeming love of Jesus the Christ and rooted in Eucharistic prayer, we Sisters of the Precious Blood proclaim God’s love by being a life-giving, reconciling presence in our fractured world.

Editor Dave Eck, Director of Communications Layout and Design Michelle Bodine, Media Specialist

Editor’s Notes

Prayer and community hallmarks of religious life

about her journey of 75 years a Precious Blood Sister.

In this issue we also meet Sister Amy Junk and learn of her ministry at Cherry Street Mission in Toledo. A former music teacher and parish musician, Sister Amy works with homeless women on general equivalency diploma (GED) testing and work skills.

Finally, congratulations to Sister Gladys Marie Lowe for her 100th birthday, May 30.

Thanks for reading Sharing & Caring and if you have comments or story ideas for future issues, please contact me at 937.274.2707 or communications@cppsadmin.org. 

Dave Eck Director of Communications Address communications to: Office of Communications Sisters of the Precious Blood 4000 Denlinger Road Dayton, OH 45426 Phone: (937) 274-2707 E-mail: communications@ cppsadmin.org Printing Progressive Printers, Inc., Dayton, Ohio PRINTED WITH SOY INK ON RECYCLED PAPER

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News

Sister Gladys marks 100th birthday at special luncheon

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century of birthdays will catch the attention of people in high

places.

That’s the lesson Sister Gladys Marie Lowe learned.

In the days leading up to her 100th birthday on May 30, Sister Gladys received dozens of cards and notes, including an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis. Willard Scott sent her a letter and Queen Elizabeth weighed in with a card of her own. A note from President Obama was one of the first to arrive.

Her Precious Blood community also hosted several birthday events highlighted by a special luncheon with Mass and a reception on June 1 at Salem Heights. Sisters from Dayton and Cincinnati joined with family and friends to celebrate the milestone. The dining room was adorned with gifts, signs and colorful linens.

Sister Gladys held back tears as Sister Jeanette Buehler read aloud the blessing from the Holy Father.

“I was so surprised,” Sister Gladys said. “I never expected so many people and so much support. Every day there was something going on.”

On May 30 the Sisters and employees at Salem Heights sang and recognized Sister Gladys during lunch.

A day earlier, Sister Anne Schulz brought the fourth grade class from Mother Teresa Catholic Elementary School in Liberty Township, Ohio, to Salem Heights for an early birthday party with Sister Gladys, who has been a strong supporter of the school for years.

The students gave a special birthday greeting and a large basket of stuffed animals for Sister Gladys, who simply loves stuffed toys.

Above, Sister Gladys Marie Lowe; bottom left, the fourth grade class from Mother Teresa Catholic Elementary School visits Sister Gladys for her birthday.

She beamed as she promptly affixed a small plush dog to her walker. After a snack of cake and punch, the students accompanied Sister Gladys to the Salem Heights chapel for a brief tour. Later as their school bus pulled away, Sister Gladys, with a wide smile, waved and blew kisses to the students.

The visit from the students was special, she said, because much of her ministry was spent working with children, and it was during her own childhood with Precious Blood Sisters that she discovered her calling to religious life.

A native of Dayton, Sister Gladys grew up in the former Sacred Heart Parish. Her father died when she was young and her mother sent her three young children to live at St. Joseph Orphanage, which was operated by the Sisters of the Precious Blood. Sister spent Story and photos by Dave Eck

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News

much of her childhood at the orphanage until her mom eventually remarried. A short time later, however, her mom died and Gladys was sent back to orphanage at age 12.

She loved the orphanage and the Sisters.

“They had so much kindness in caring for the children and the needs that they had,” Sister Gladys said. “Their prayer services were so fulfilling that that’s why I wanted to be a Sister.”

She remembers sneaking out of bed into the choir loft at the orphanage and listening to the Sisters praying and singing.

At age 16, one of the Sisters asked Gladys what she wanted to do with her life. There was no hesitation: she wanted to join the convent.

After formation, she spent 15 years working in the orphanage, taking care of the little boys. She then ministered in Rome City, Ind., for 19 years before spending nearly 20 years at San Luis Rey in Oceanside, Calif.

She made her lasting impact

Above, Sister Gladys Marie Lowe with Trevor Brinkmann, a former Mother Teresa Catholic Elementary School student, visiting Sister Gladys on her birthday.

at San Luis Rey, first at the Academy and then at the Old Mission Montessori School.

She ran the student lunch store, watched the younger kids and helped the needy through St. Vincent de Paul.

The school’s annual fiesta, though, is where she is best remembered. Sister Gladys operated a booth that sold everything from trinkets to toys to jewelry. The items were donated. She was so popu-

lar that people would show up the day before the fiesta opened in order get a jump on their shopping. The booth is still part of the annual fiesta and it is named after Sister Gladys.

“She’s just whole-hearted and gives to everybody,” said Sister Mary Yarger, who taught at San Luis Rey Academy when Sister Gladys worked there. “She’s just a good human soul.” 

Happy Birthday In each issue of Sharing & Caring we recognize the birthdays of the Sisters of the Precious Blood. Congratulations to the Sisters celebrating Summer and Fall birthdays.

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21 24 26 30 31

AUGUST Noreen Jutte Mary Kathryn Gurren Jeannine Kloeker Edna Hess Margo Young Jeanette Buehler Judy Kroeger Bernice Krieg Ann Clark Joyce Kahle

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12 16 22 29

SEPTEMBER Cleophas Schumacher Nadine Kaschalk Ruth Ann Meyer Mary Ann Mozser Florence Seifert Noemi Flores Della Mae Meyer Rita Rogier Rosemary Laux

1 3 7 13 14 17 18 20 29

OCTOBER Marie Kopin Beverly Ann Bodnar Nancy McMullen Teresa Maher Dianne Skubby Patricia Kremer Mary Rose McCrate Luella Huelskamp Rosalie Kastner Summer 2014

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Ministry

Encountering a saint a highlight of Sister Virginia's ministry

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ot many people can say they have received communion from a saint.

Sister Virginia Hebbeler is one of those lucky few.

When St. John Paul II toured the western U.S. in September 1987, he celebrated a papal Mass at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. Among those selected to receive communion from the then-Pope John Paul II at the Mass were three people from St. Mary’s Basilica in Phoenix. Sister Virginia, who ministered at St. Mary’s for more than 20 years, was one of them.

The temperature touched ninety degrees that Monday afternoon as Sister Virginia waited for three solid hours to enter the stadium, home to Arizona State University’s Sun Devils football team. More than 75,000 people packed the

stadium for the papal Mass.

Inside, the sacraments were being administered.

“The services were such that in the stadium they had every sacrament,” Sister Virginia said. “It was beautiful.”

As the Mass wore on, Sister Virginia recalled the letter she had received instructing her to hold out her hand to receive communion, which was just coming into vogue at the time.

Make sure the Holy Father notices your hand, the letter urged. The pontiff, wearing red vestments, offered communion and pressed the Host in her palm.

Just like that, she joined a select club.

“It was very thrilling,” she said. “When he was canonized I thought ‘What a privilege.’”

Sister Virginia never set out to receive communion from the pope, live in the western

Above, Sister Virginia Hebbeler at St. Mary's Basilica in Phoenix; bottom left, Sister Virginia counts the monthly stipends for the Sisters at Salem Heights.

United States or even become a nun. As a senior at Regina High School in Norwood, Ohio, she was planning to graduate and enter nursing school with four friends. Her mom, who wanted to be a nurse but never got the opportunity, was pleased.

In the middle of the school year, however, a Precious Blood Sister at Regina asked Virginia, whose religious name was Mary Claudine, what she wanted to do after graduation.

The girl explained that she was going to be a nurse.

“I don’t think so,” the nun replied, and asked Virginia to pray a novena to the Blessed Mother. She did and her path changed.

On Christmas Eve, as VirStory by Dave Eck; contributed photos

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Ministry

ginia and her mother were in the bathroom getting ready for midnight Mass, Virginia shared that she was going to forego nursing school after graduation and enter the convent. Her mother was disappointed, but her father was thrilled.

After novitiate, Sister Virginia trained as a teacher and taught grade school in Ohio and Missouri. She eventually fulfilled her desire to become a nurse and worked in Dayton, California and Indiana.

She later returned to teaching in California, Arizona and Colorado.

In 1975, she became a pastoral assistant at St. Mary’s and stayed there for the next 22 years. She kept the books and handled other administrative duties. She also helped with pastoral ministry. She enjoyed working with the Franciscans who still operate the parish.

“I was very happy there,” Sister Virgina said. “I loved

Above, Sister Margaret Mary LeGlise (Sr. M. Claver) and Sister Virginia Hebbler in Ft. Defiance, Arizona; bottom left, Sister Virginia working as a cashier during a sale at Salem Heights.

Phoenix. I got along with the Franciscans so well. We never had any problems, and if we did, we solved them.”

Sister Virginia, who is celebrating her 75th jubilee this year, retired from St. Mary’s

in 1997 and moved to Salem Heights in Dayton, where she volunteered her nursing and financial skills.

In her bedroom is a photo of John Paul II, a link to a highlight of her life as a Precious Blood Sister.

“I’m grateful for everything I’ve had,” she said. “It was just something that happened in my lifetime.” 

'I loved Phoenix. I got along with the Franciscans so well.

We never had any problems, and if we did, we solved them.'

– Sister Virginia Hebbeler

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Cover Story

Jubilarians celebrated at Mass, banquet during Spirit Days

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s we recognize Sts. Peter and Paul for their fidelity to Christ, we also celebrate the nearly 700 years of Christian witness by a dozen Precious Blood Sisters marking milestone jubilees this year.

That’s the message Missionary of the Precious Blood Father Stephen Dos Santos shared during the Jubilee Mass June 29 at Salem Heights. The Mass and banquet were the highlight of the Sisters of the Precious Blood annual Spirit Days.

Sister Virginia Hebbeler is celebrating her 75th jubilee this year; 60th jubilarians are Mary Ellen Andrisin, Maryann Bremke, Della Mae Meyer, Madonna Ratermann and M. Rose Helene Wildenhaus; and 50th jubilarians are Sisters Noemi Flores, Paula Gero, Edna Hess, Joyce Lehman and Joyce Ann Zimmerman.

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“Their fidelity and Sts. Peter and Paul’s are quite similar,” Father Dos Santos said of the jubilarians.

From their first days of novitiate to standing in front a classroom to getting on a plane bound for missionary service in Chile, the jubilarians continued to renew their commitment to the Son of the living God, he explained. At a time when many people slow down and contemplate retirement, these Sisters started new ministries.

“You’ve responded to the changing needs of the church over the years,” Father Dos Santos said. “Through every one of those changes and challenges, you’ve been faithful. Today we celebrate your fidelity.”

The jubilarians participated in the Mass as lectors, cross bearers and Eucharistic ministers. Following the homily,

Above, gifts for the Jubilarians. Photo by Sister Mary Lou Schmersal. Bottom left, Sister Maria Luisa Miller; bottom right, Sister Gerri McGeorge gives Sister Della Mae Meyer her Jubilee rose. Photos by Dave Eck.

Sister Joyce Lehman, president of the congregation, led all the Sisters in a renewal of their vows.

Story by Dave Eck

Cover Story Left, Sister Amy Junk gives Sister Paula Gero her Jubilee rose; right, (from left) Sisters Maria Luisa Miller, Mary Ellen Andrisin and Madonna Ratermann enter the chapel for the Saturday evening prayer service during Spirit Days. Photos by Sister Mary Lou Schmersal.

Father Dos Santos extended a special blessing on this year’s jubilarians.

“We praise you this day for choosing these Sisters,” Father prayed. “Bless them on this special day.”

There were plenty of smiles and sharing of stories as the Jubilarian classes reminisced during the banquet meal.

Speaking for the 60th Jubilarian class, Sister Maryann Bremke shared that the class has jelled over the years.

These classmates gathered at the congregation’s cabin following their 25th jubilee and took a trip to the beach every other year.

“We’ve grown personally,” Sister Maryann said. “I think we’ve enriched C.PP.S. as C.PP.S. has enriched us.”

Sister Edna spoke for the five Sisters celebrating their 50th jubilee.

“Thank you for your love and support over these 50 years,” she said. “We are grateful because you have honored

our lives and our ministries, but we remember that this is God’s work.”

The jubilee celebration began June 28 with a prayer service at the close of Spirit Days. The honorees received a special gift and the background of each jubilarian was featured in a light-hearted PowerPoint presentation.

The Jubilarians will also be recognized during individual celebrations at their parishes and places of ministry throughout the year.

Spirit Days

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isters from across the United States, Guatemala and Chile gathered at Salem Heights for Spirit Days. With a theme of “Inflamed with the fire of redeeming love,” the event enabled Sisters to be reenergized and reacquainted with each other.

Precious Blood Missionary Father Jerry Stack gave a keynote address on the

spirituality of St. Gaspar del Bufalo, founder of the Missionaries of the Precious Blood. Spirit Days also included business meetings, small-group sharing and community presentations. 

'We are grateful because you have honored our lives and our ministries, but we remember that this is God's work.'

– Sister Edna Hess

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Cover Story

Congratulations to our

On the cover: Sister Edna Hess speaks for the 50th Jubilarian class; photo by Michelle Bodine. Above left, Sister Maryann Bremke has her corsage pinned on by Sister Nancy Kinross; photo by Sister Mary Lou Schmersal. Above right, Sister Edna Hess; bottom left, Sister Mary Ellen Andrisin (left) presents the cup to Sister Noemi Flores; below right from left, Sisters Edna Hess, Joyce Ann Zimmerman, Della Mae Meyer, Mary Ellen Andrisin, Maria Luisa Miller, Rose Helene Wildenhaus, Maryann Bremke are blessed by the community at the Jubilee Mass; photos by Michelle Bodine.

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Cover Story

2014

Jubilarians

Above left, (from left) Sisters Rose Helene Wildenhaus, Maria Luisa Miller and Madonna Ratermann sing during the Jubilee Mass; photo by Sister Mary Lou Schmersal. Above right, Sister Joyce Lehman leads the congregation in the renewal of their vows during the Jubilee Mass; photo by Michelle Bodine. Bottom left, Sister Virginia Hebbeler; photo by Sister Mary Lou Schmersal. Below right, Sisters Paula Gero and Della Mae Meyer at the Jubilee banquet; photo by Michelle Bodine.

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Ministry

Sister Amy helps break the cycle of homlessness

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ne of the best ways to understand Sister Amy Junk’s impact on the homeless and poor women she serves at Cherry Street Mission Ministries in Toledo is to listen to her co-workers describe her. Organized. Compassionate. Comforting. Prayerful.

They say these things and one begins to see how Sister Amy lives out her Precious Blood spirituality by ministering to those in need.

“She is really good at showing God’s love through her actions and through her words,” said Delray Busch, education and workplace development manager at Cherry Street Mission. “She really helps women understand. She’s great at meeting them where they are and not overwhelming them.”

With prayer and patience Sister Amy guides about a dozen women through academic courses offered at the

mission. Some women are preparing for college, studying to take the General Equivalency Diploma test or tailoring work skills. The women have different needs depending on their goals, so individualized learning plans are developed for each of them.

“I talk to them about what their goal is,” said Sister Amy. “A lot of them want to get a job and some want to go back to college. After they take the (assessment) test and write an essay, I try to pull out whatever goes with their goal to get them started.”

On a typical day, Sister Amy gets one woman started on math problems, helps another with reading and helps yet a third work on her resume. Everyone participates in a small prayer/devotional to start the two-hour session.

Founded in 1947, Cherry Street Mission Ministries

Above, Sister Amy with Cherry Street Mission co-workers Shawn Kellerbauer, exchange manager, and Rebecca Bowling, director of volunteers; below left, Sister Amy looks over instructor materials for her classes.

houses more than 230 people and serves more than 880 meals per day. In addition to basic services, the agency offers programs designed to break the cycle of homelessness. Outreach operations enable clients to develop work skills and network with potential employers.

There are challenges. Some of the clients have had limited schooling while others fight through a language barrier. Almost all the students suffer the effects of drug use, involvement in the criminal justice system or homelessness. Many are in some type of counseling or have long-neglected physical problems. These personal issues can hinder learning.

In addressing each person’s unique needs, Sister Amy is Story and photos by Dave Eck

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She remembers little of them because they were much older, though her aunt, Sister Luca Junk, was well-known for her more than 20 years of ministry in Arizona.

Sister Amy attended Precious Blood School in Ft. Wayne, and was taught by the Precious Blood Sisters who influenced her spirituality by their faithful living of the community’s charism. She sensed her own call to religious life as a child and entered Fatima Hall after graduating from eighth grade.

Sister Amy was trained as an elementary teacher and taught in Ohio, Missouri, Ft. Wayne and North Dakota. She also served as a parish musician and liturgist for many years in Ohio, Indiana and Michigan before moving into music therapy. She ministered in that field for about ten years, mostly at nursing homes in Michigan. As a music therapist, Sister Amy used music to address individual needs of her patients. That experience helps her in her current min-

istry as she advocates for her students and develops their individual plans.

“This seems to be where I belong,” she said. “I think that every ministry I’ve done has always been preparation for the next one.”

Outside of her work at Cherry Street, Sister Amy is active in vocations. She has served on the community’s Vocations Ministry Committee and works with the vocation directors in the Toledo diocese.

Working with vulnerable women has deepened her spirituality, Sister Amy said. It has taught her to listen more clearly to her students, and to God. She begins her day with 30-45 minutes in prayer for strength. She trusts that God will get her students where they need to be. She reaches out to the community for support and regularly visits Salem Heights. “It has helped me try to be intentionally positive,” she said. “It shows me some blessings that I take for granted.” 

Above, Sister Amy Junk works with a student at Cherry Street Mission in Toledo.

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Ministry

as much a cheerleader for her students as she is a teacher, celebrating their incremental successes.

To keep the students motivated she encourages them to let go of their past, praises their accomplishments and strives to eliminate negativity. She will also use fun brain teasers to stimulate her students and keep their minds off their personal situation. Holding a devotional at the beginning of each session draws the students to each other and helps keep them focused.

“Motivation is a big factor,” Sister Amy explained. “[Students] who aren’t motivated usually end up dropping out.”

A former music therapist, teacher and parish musician, Sister Amy first became involved with tutoring and GED preparation after joining several other Precious Blood Sisters who went to live and minister in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina in 2005. She began to see the need for adult education because the high schools were destroyed by the storm.

After returning to Ohio, she moved to Toledo and began volunteering with Women Blessing Women, an agency started by women religious in Toledo that helped poor women obtain an education and job skills. She eventually moved to Cherry Street, volunteering for a year before joining the staff.

It’s a ministry she couldn’t have dreamed of as a young nun trained in music.

A native of Ft. Wayne, Ind., Sister Amy had two aunts who were Precious Blood Sisters and an uncle who was a Missionary of the Precious Blood.

Ministry

Menard Prison trip

"I

wish I could afford to see my son, but they locked him up for a long time in Menard Prison, six hours away,” cried one mother. “When they send our children off, far from their family, they cause hardships to all of us. I just keep praying.”

Plans were put together for an annual trip to Menard Prison. On June 10, 37 people, mostly mothers of sons who have been incarcerated for a long time in Menard Maximum Security Prison, boarded a bus and began a journey that would change their lives forever. Soon, family members would see their loved ones; it was over five years since one couple had been able to see their sons.

The questions being asked as they anxiously awaited the prison check-in and search were: “Do you have your two picture IDs? Are my clothes appropriate? Do you have

'I want to thank God for letting me go on this trip and for opening my eyes.

This is exactly what I needed.'

— Oscar

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enough money to put on the food card?” Oscar, one of our Precious Blood Ministries of Reconciliation youth, was one of those feeling some anxiety, since this was his first visit to a prison. When he got to the check-in window he was refused a visit; while he had two IDs, they had just changed a rule and would not accept a college ID. His first response was not anger nor self-pity but sadness for Robert, the prisoner he was to visit.

First, we went off to the vending machines to purchase some non-jail food, which is one of the joys of the visit.

(The prisoners cannot go to the vending machines.) All the while, eyes are on the door; what will he look like?

What will we say to one another? Will he like the sandwich I picked out for him?

There he is! — now the longawaited hug from mother, dad or loved one. There were tears; there was laughter; and then to an assigned table to sit across from, not next to, each other. We had two hours, so we kept watching the clock, hoping the guard wasn’t aware of the time.

Visits were over and we went back on the bus. It was quiet. It seemed everyone just wanted to remember the time there and as one mother said, “I just want to hold on to the memory, to that hug, to my own son’s voice saying ‘Mom, I love you so much.’”

One family had told of how their son asked them to forgive someone who was

responsible for his very long sentence. The man had sent him a letter asking for his forgiveness and he passed it on to his parents and asked them to forgive the man, as he had. The father wept and said he and his wife needed time, but they were amazed and proud of their son. They knew he had been transformed and was not the same young man who came into the prison.

Oscar did get in to visit the second day. His friend, Robert, smiled during the whole visit. This was Robert’s first visit in 10 years and very soon he and Oscar, who were once far off, became close. Oscar kept asking, “What will I say for two hours … TWO hours?” After the visit, he said the time went fast and he looks forward to visiting Robert again. Oscar closed his journal entry with these words: “I want to thank God for letting me go on this trip and for opening my eyes. This is exactly what I needed.”

I asked one of the mothers if there was one word that would describe this whole journey and she said, “LOVE. UNCONDITIONAL LOVE!” What a blessing it was for us to be a part of their journey of courage, faithfulness and long-suffering. I think we all needed this and none of us will be the same.  Story by Sister Donna Liette [Ed. note. This article first appeared in the Aug. 2014 issue of The New Wine Press. Used with permission.]

In Brief Left, Sisters of the Precious Blood Pat Gist, Karen Elliott, Amy Junk, Rita Rogier and Mary Lou Schmersal at the CCMT Urban All-American Celebration at the Pinnacle in Maumee on May 8. Contributed photo; right, the Communications Office celebrated with a cake for their 500 likes on Facebook. Michelle Bodine photo

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recious Blood Sisters living and ministering in the Toledo, Ohio, diocese attended the 23rd annual Urban All-American Celebration at the Pinnacle in Maumee on May 8. The event is a key fundraiser for the Central City Ministry of Toledo (CCMT), which benefits the students of CCMT campuses at Rosary Cathedral and Queen of Apostles in Toledo. Representing the Congregation at the event were Sisters Pat Gist, Karen Elliott, Amy Junk, Rita Rogier and Mary Lou Schmersal.

Central City Ministries is a unique collaborative endeavor to make a Catholic education possible for inner city families through the generous donations of time, talent, and treasure of countless persons and parishes throughout the area. These efforts provide hundreds of young people and their families the opportunity to be educated, thrive and grow in a Catholic faith community.

During the event, significant staff and support persons were recognized for outstanding contributions in the promotion and enhancement of Catholic education on two campuses: Queen of Apostles and Rosary Cathedral. An Achievement Award was given to two 2014 graduates who exhibit extraordinary achievement or academic, athletic and/or career success. They were chosen because each is a positive role model for today’s students, demonstrating integrity, high ideals and moral character. In addition, Mercy, a member of Catholic Health Partners, was awarded the Rev. Bernard J. Boff Service Award for their on-going support of the students, staff and teachers of Central City Ministries.

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isitors to the community’s website have recently noticed a new look as the site has been re-designed to make it more streamlined and functional. The layout is similar to the previous site, but information has been updated and new features have been added.

On the home page, users will find a listing of recent news headlines about the community.

Simply clicking on the headline will take visitors the news item. The vocations section was updated to better explain discernment to/and life as a woman religious/Sister of the Precious Blood. The new site also features drop-down section headings which enable users to hover the cursor over the tab to select the section that interests them. The new site is updated daily with prayers and photos.

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he community launched its first e-newsletter on July 25. The initial issue, which was sent to about 160 people, featured stories on the 2014 jubilarians. The e-newsletter will be e-mailed on a regular basis and include news stories and photos from the community. To receive the e-newsletter, e-mail Michelle Bodine at communications2@cppsadmin.org; please include your first and last name, and your e-mail address.

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acebook has become an effective means of engaging people interested in the Sisters of the Precious Blood and the community’s Facebook page continues to grow. The site topped 500 fans in late July and content reaches more than 10,000 people each month. Check us out on Facebook and make sure to ‘like’ our page.  Summer 2014

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Vocations

Sister Ann Clark joins Vocations Ministry Committee

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he Vocations Ministry Committee welcomed Sister Ann Clark to the group during its regular meeting Aug. 1-2. Sister Ann replaces Sister Amy Junk, who has served on the committee for the last six years.

Though Sister Ann served on the committee twice before, she considers herself a newcomer, as the group now includes three lay people and a member of the Precious Blood Missionaries. Lay people were added to the committee in 2010. They are joined by five Precious Blood Sisters.

“I believe in our spirituality,” Sister Ann said. “I don’t know what the future is going to look like but I believe our spirituality is valid and who knows where it will take us?”

Utilizing her experience in parish ministry in both urban and Hispanic communities, Sister Ann is looking forward to assisting the committee in exploring ways to better connect with women from other cultures. The former elementary school teacher often participates in vocations events.

The lay members of the committee have helped the community understand young women’s perspectives on religious life, Sister Ann explained.

“We see things one way through our eyes, but they see it through their eyes,” she said. “They let us know what other people see in our community and what we present.

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Sharing & Caring

Above, The 2014 Vocations Ministry Committee gathered in Dayton Aug 1-2 for its first meeting. Back row from left, Sister Ann Clark, Missionary of the Precious Blood Juan Acuna, Sister Terry Maher, Cindy Schmersal and Sister Mary Lou Schmersal; front row from left, Sister Marla Gipson, Eillien Mendenz, Sister Terry Walter and Sister Mary Yarger.

It helps us understand what young people are looking for in a religious community.”

The lay people also bring an additional level of enthusiasm and excitement to community’s vocations work, she added.

The group, which advises the community council, meets quarterly to evaluate opportunities to share the community’s spirituality and gifts with others. Over the last two years, the committee has produced vocation material designed for presentations to young people of various ages, helped create content for the community’s website, invited parents to share feelings on their children entering religious life and is beginning discussions with other reli-

gious communities on multicultural members.

A native of Dayton, Sister Ann spent her first three years of religious life teaching elementary grades in Troy and St. Marys, Ohio. After earning a Master’s in Hispanic Ministry from St. Thomas Seminary in Denver, Colo., Sister Ann worked in parish ministry in Colorado and Arizona for 15 years. She returned to Dayton and spent eight years working in parish ministry at Our Lady of Mercy Parish. She has been a parish minister at St. Mary Parish in Franklin, Ohio, for the last six years.

“I look forward to working on the committee,” she said. “I see a lot of energy there.”  Story and photo by Dave Eck

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he Precious Blood Leadership Conference finds itself in the unique position this year to respond to an appeal for assistance from the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood for the education of their Sisters, especially in their African provinces. Sister Mary Paul Wamatu, CPS, contacted Sister Fran Raia, CPPS/O’Fallon, Missouri, with a description of the areas of service that the CPS Sisters cover and the need they have for education. She also sent the costs for a Sister to be trained and receive a diploma, a master’s degree and/or a doctorate.

Sisters with higher education are able to obtain positions in which the salaries allow the Congregation to become more self-sufficient in the future, thus freeing other Sisters for training and ministry among the poorest of the poor.

The Precious Blood Leadership Conference has given a gift of $10,000 to the Mis-

News

PBLC donates to Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood sionary Sisters of the Precious Blood for the education of their young Sisters in the Province of East Africa. This unique and one-time gift was able to be given because of the change in the structure of the Conference. The gift allows the PBLC to connect and collaborate with other Congregations devoted to the Precious Blood who are not members of PBLC. The demographics of the CPS Congregation have changed in a way that the younger Sisters are coming from countries where they do not have the financial support of Sisters who have gone before them.

“To meet the modern demands of services provided by the congregation, the Sisters need higher education,” Sister Mary Paul wrote in a letter to Sister Fran. “Education is costly, especially in countries where incomes are very low.

Help(ing) the Sisters get better

jobs will bring a higher income to the community so that the community can support itself in the future.”

The Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood were founded in Durban, South Africa, in 1885. They number around 800 Sisters and serve 21 countries throughout the world. They work primarily in the education of women, health care and social work, as well as pastoral work, domestic work and agriculture. Among specific ministries are orphanages and homes for vulnerable children and the elderly, as well as work with street children and children with AIDS. PBLC members include the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, Sisters of the Most Precious Blood (O’Fallon, Missouri) and The Sisters of the Precious Blood (Dayton, Ohio). 

Sister Carolyn Hoying on the death of her sister-in-law, Doris Hoying.

Sister Della Mae Meyer on the death of her brother-inlaw, Ken Monnin.

Sister Eva Roehrich on the death of her brother, Nick Roehrich.

Sister Nancy McMullen on the death of her brother-inlaw, Harold Borchers.

Remembering

— PBLC news release

In Sympathy Sister Helen Weber on the death of her sister-in-law, Audrey Weber.

Sister Marita Beumer on the death of her brother-in-law, Leonard Klosterman.

Sister Rita Yahl on the death of her sister-in-law, Connie Yahl.

Sister Nancy Kinross on the death of her brother, Greg Kinross.

George J. Knippen, brother of deceased Sisters M. Berchmans, M. Clara and Vita.

Marie Thomas, sister of deceased Sister Mary Bernard Reichert.

Marie Dresher, former Sister M. Magdalita, sister of deceased Sister Canice Werner.

Summer 2014

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In Memoriam

Sister Marie Renee Hoehn July 1929 — August 12, 2014

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esurrection liturgy for Precious Blood Sister Marie Renee Hoehn was held at Salem Heights Chapel on Saturday, August 16. Sister died at the Maria Joseph Center in Dayton, Ohio, on August 12, 2014. Renee had been a Sister of the Precious Blood for 69 years.

The second oldest of six children, Velma Margaret was born in Ottoville on July 1, 1929 to Sylvester A. and Frances A. (Gergen) Hoehn. She formally entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Precious Blood at age 16.

In religious life she was known as Sister Marie Renee.

In her religious life Sister Renee was always happy to do whatever needed to be done because she felt as if she touched God in a

unique way when she ministered to others.

Sister was an educator for 47 years, teaching primary grades in Phoenix, Ariz.; Escondido, Calif.; St. Joseph, Missouri; Ft Wayne, Ind; and in the Ohio cities of Bellefontaine, Centerville, Celina, Columbus Grove, New Riegel, North College Hill, Wapakoneta and Kettering. From 1995-2012 she lived at Salem Heights in Dayton and was a part-time helper at the Maria Joseph Center serving in the post office, general store and at Emma Hall where the infirmed CPPS Sisters resided. Because of failing health she moved in 2012 to the Maria Joseph Center.

Sister Marie Renee is survived by her sisters Dorothy Bowen, Lorene Lindeman and Eileen Kehres and nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her brothers Arthur and Donald.

Interment was in the Salem Heights Cemetery.

Sister Evelyn (M. Georgina) Monnin January 1926 — August 6, 2014

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esurrection liturgy for Precious Blood Sister Evelyn Monnin was held at Salem Heights Chapel on Saturday, August 9. Sister died at the Maria Joseph Center in Dayton, Ohio on Wednesday, August 6, 2014. Evelyn had been a Sister of the Precious Blood for 72 years.

The oldest of six children, Evelyn was born in Russia, Ohio on January 24, 1926 to Clarence H. Monnin and Anna (Dapore) Monnin. On August 13, 1942, at the age of 16, she formally entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Precious Blood. In religious life she was known for some time as Sister M. Georgina before she returned to using her baptismal name.

“I soon learned that convent life was different from farm life. I had more time to pray and to study under the guidance of Sister Nathalia, whom I dearly loved.”

Sister Evelyn was a compassionate, loving, and soft-spoken person who was always willing to help or go on an adventure.

Sister was an educator for 44 years, teaching grades 1-8 in St. Joseph, Mo; Arvada, Colo; and 18

Sharing & Caring

in Dayton, Vandalia, Coldwater, Celina and Russia, Ohio. Nine of those years she served as principal. As a principal, she was a mentor to her staff. Evelyn knew what was right and acted accordingly, even when it was difficult.

A friend of Evelyn’s wrote, “I remember how Evelyn’s students loved her. She had good discipline and didn’t let them get away with things; at the same time, they knew she loved them. After school, former students would flock to her classroom, and she would always find time for them.”

From 1990-1993 she was a gentle, loving caregiver to her mother in Russia. For 8 years afterwards she served as Assistant Coordinator at Emma Hall, Dayton, Ohio, serving the Congregation’s infirmed Sisters. She retired in 2001 at Salem Heights in Dayton, Ohio and continued at Emma Hall as a volunteer until 2013. Because of failing health she moved in 2014 to the Maria Joseph Center.

Sister Evelyn is survived by her sisters Kathleen Heuing and Norma (Ronald) Bensman and her sister-in-law Doris (Carl) Monnin, as well as her brother Linus (Rita) Monnin and brother-inlaw William (Elizabeth) Mann. Preceding her in death were her sister Elizabeth and brother Carl.

Interment was in the Salem Heights Cemetery.

May 1926 — June 15, 2014

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esurrection liturgy for Precious Blood Sister Elizabeth Kammerer was held June 17 at Maria Joseph Center’s Chapel in Dayton. Sister died at Maria Joseph Center on June 15, 2014. She had been a Sister of the Precious Blood for 68 years.

A native of Norwood, Sister Elizabeth spent 23 years in education as an elementary school teacher and principal in Meza, Ariz., San Luis Rey, Calif. and Falls Church, Virginia. From 1966-71, Sister Elizabeth served as the Sisters of the Precious Blood southern region superior. She then worked in pastoral ministry in Detroit for seven years before then-Cincinnati Archbishop Joseph L. Bernardin personally invited her to serve as Vicar for Religious in the Cincinnati Archdiocese. Following six years as Vicar, Sister Elizabeth served at the Congregations’ retreat center and shrine in Maria Stein, Ohio, where

she seved on the retreat team and gave spiritual direction and later assisted in fund development.

I couldn’t thank God enough for my time in Maria Stein,” Sister Elizabeth said. “(It) has been a ministry I liked the best—to be able to walk with others on their spiritual journey in their search for God. (It) was an awesome privilege.”

She retired in 2005 at Salem Heights in Dayton, Ohio. Because of failing health she moved in 2014 to the Maria Joseph Center. In her free time, Elizabeth enjoyed travelling, reading, word puzzles and card games, especially Nickles. She found delight in watching and feeding the birds and was ready to create a party for any reason! She was known for her ready smile, her great sense of humor and her love of Dairy Queen ice cream.

Sister Elizabeth is survived by her sister, Lois Wall of Plymouth, Mich. and her sister-in-law Augusta Kammerer Dublin, Ohio.

Interment was in the Salem Heights Cemetery.

Sister M. Valeria Abele August 1924 — May 8, 2014

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esurrection liturgy for Precious Blood Sister Valeria Abele was held at the Salem Heights Chapel on Monday, May 12. Sister died at Maria Joseph Center in Dayton, Ohio on Thursday, May 8, 2014. Valeria had been a Sister of the Precious Blood for 64 years.

One of nine children born to Lawrence and Helen (Leonard) Abele, Virginia Ann was born in Dayton, Ohio in August 1924. On August 15, 1949 at the age of 25, she formally entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Precious Blood and received her name in religion, Sister M. Valeria. She truly loved and believed in her religious community and considered being a member a great privilege.

In 1952 Sister began her community ministry as a teacher of grades five and six in Wapakoneta, Ohio. She enjoyed teaching there for seven years. Because of her compassion and sensitivity, the Precious Blood Congregation asked

Valeria to train to become a registered nurse.

For a total of 34 years Sister ministered to others as an RN. She began her nursing in Dayton, Ohio, and in Flint, Mich., where she served as Director of Nursing Service. She also ministered as a nurse at Rome City and Auburn, Ind. For 17 years Valeria ministered in Tucson, Ariz., including a year as house mother for unwed mothers, helping with the care of their babies.

Sister retired in 1997 at Salem Heights in Dayton, Ohio, doing various volunteer work and enjoying hobbies, especially cross-stitching at which she excelled. Due to her deteriorating health Valeria moved to Maria Joseph Center in 2013.

Sister Valeria is survived by her sisters-in-law Catherine (James) Abele, Rita (Jerome) Abele and Marcella (Thomas) Abele, all of the Dayton area.

Preceding her in death were her brothers Lawrence, Richard, James, Thomas and Jerome, and William, who died in childhood; and her sisters Mary Margaret, and Sister Dorothy (Teresilda), who preceded her in the Precious Blood Order.

Interment was in the Salem Heights Cemetery.

For the full texts of the eulogies given at the sisters’ funerals, go to: www.preciousbloodsistersdayton.org; click on About Us>In Memoriam.

Summer 2014

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In Memoriam

Sister Elizabeth Kammerer

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID DAYTON, OH Permit No. 966

4000 Denlinger Road Dayton, OH 45426-2399

New poster features those in religious formation

A

new effort to highlight religious life in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati is colorful and visual.

The Sisters of the Precious Blood have collaborated with seven other religious communities to create a full-color poster featuring men and women in religious formation. The poster features photos of 13 men and women who are either from the Cincinnati Archdiocese or are working in the archdiocese. Under each photo is the person’s name, religious community, stage in formation, home parish or diocese and location of ministry. A quote from 1 Samuel and contact information for the eight participating communities are also included on the poster.

The project was spearheaded

by Precious Blood Sister Mary Yarger, the community’s vocations coordinator, and designed by the Precious Blood Sisters’ communication office. The communities provided the photos and information for the poster.

The poster was paid for by the participating communities.

The poster is similar to one 20

Sharing & Caring

produced by the Athenaeum of Ohio featuring photos of seminarians who are in discernment at St. Mary Seminary in Cincinnati. The religious formation poster is the first one produced in the archdiocese in recent memory. Plans are to update the poster yearly.

The poster is being distributed to parishes, Catholic schools, Newman centers and other Catholic institutions in the Cincinnati archdiocese.

It is also on display in offices

of the Chancery and in Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr’s office. Archbishop Schnurr commented that the poster helps him illustrate the level of commitment to religious life in the archdiocese.

On social media, the poster has been promoted on the archdiocesan website and Facebook.

Other communities have featured the poster on their social media outlets as well.  Story by Dave Eck