Families residing in the Younine settlement, who enjoyed a “normal” life in Syria prior to the civil war, long for the day they can return to their beloved country.
A Message from the Provincial
Dear Readers,
VOL. XXIV NO. 2 - FALL 2017
Vision & Challenge is published several times each year by the Sisters of Notre Dame, California Province.
SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME
Founded by Hilligonde Wolbring in Coesfeld, Germany in 1850, the Sisters of Notre Dame is an international congregation of women religious who serve the church in 18 countries. The Sisters of Notre Dame have ministered in California for more than 93 years, bringing hope to humankind through education, faith formation, spiritual development, pastoral ministry, health care, social outreach ministries and missionary service. For more information, visit www.sndca.org.
VISION & CHALLENGE TEAM
Provincial Superior:
Sr. M. Anncarla Costello, S.N.D.
Director of Mission Advancement Services:
Communications Manager: Sarah Marcuse
Contributors and advisers for this edition:
Sr. Betty Mae Bienlein, Jen Coito, Jim Ford, Sr. M. Rebekah Kennedy, Sr. M. Regina Robbins, Sr. M. Joan Schlotfeldt, Lucy Shiffrin, Lisa Stupar, Meredeth Vogler and Sr. M. Frances Wahl
Updates:
Please contact the Mission Advancement at info@sndca.org or 1776 Hendrix Ave., Thousand Oaks, CA 91360.
Please accept our apologies for any misspellings or omissions.
PRINTING
Vision & Challenge is printed locally by Custom Printing in Oxnard, California. Please remember to recycle your copy after reading.
For the past year, we Sisters of Notre Dame have been exploring the implications of our general chapter theme, Encountering the Word, Engaging the World. This theme presupposes that we are disposed to that encounter—to meet the living Word of God through a contemplative attitude that enables us to recognize the living word in persons and creation. Through this lens, we are able to Engage the World as we live the mission entrusted to us, to incarnate God’s love and provident care.
The two dynamics within the theme—the interior, contemplative aspect of our spiritual life and the external aspects of our ministerial life—are not two good and provident God if we are deeply grounded in prayer. That grounding enables us to serve God’s people, which in turn leads us back to prayer in order to be renewed and energized for response to new, perhaps yet unknown needs.
In this issue of Vision and Challenge we wish to present some of the ways in which this dynamic is lived in prayer and service. We recently celebrated our jubilarians—Sisters Mary Kristin Battles, Mary Joann Schlarbaum and Dwina Marie Towle. We also commemorated the lives and witness of Sisters Mary LaReina Kelly and Rose Anthony Ballard during their funerals in July.
This summer, La Reina High School faculty member, Theresa Thibodeaux, encountered the world in her outreach with Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
Here at home several of our sisters and associates have committed themselves to “Encountering the Word” anew through their participation in the Catholic Bible Institute. They now share the fruit of this encounter in their various ministries. It may inspire you to consider joining a similar program.
Encountering the Word and Engaging the World provides a roadmap for living and applying our faith. It is not entrusted exclusively to us as Sisters of Notre Dame. After you have read this issue of Vision and Challenge, we invite you to determine how you can Encounter the Word and Engage the World as daughters and sons of a loving God.
Sincerely,
Sr. M. Anncarla Costello, S.N.D.
Encountering the Word: Through the Catholic Bible Institute
Written by: Sarah Marcuse
Sr. Mary Frances Wahl is a ninth grade Scripture teacher at Notre Dame Academy in Los Angeles. She happily chats about her experience as a core team member for the prestigious Catholic Bible Institute.
SM: Sr. Frances, I understand the program is two years for those who would like to take it for enrichment purposes, with an optional third year that covers the practicum for those who want to teach in a parish. How many applicants do you accept each year?
SMF:
the Old Testament; the second year on the New Testament; and the last year (if you choose) is a practicum.
participants to teach Bible study. Each year we accept approximately one hundred students from all over the Archdiocese: everywhere from Oxnard to Long Beach! The participants are rather diverse! Although there is a separate program for Spanish speakers, we have Vietnamese, Filipinos, Latinos, wide variety of ages in our program.
Fast Facts about the Catholic Bible Institute
SPONSORED BY: Archdiocese of Los Angeles, Loyola Marymount University
FOUNDERS:
When we began, it was the 50+ crowd. Now we see younger participants: people in their 20s and 30s, young parents, and others looking for continuing education.
SM: Sr. Frances, I hear the enthusiasm in your voice as you talk about this! What brought you to this ministry as a core team member with CBI?
SMF: I’ve loved Scripture since I was in high school. I went through the CBI program myself in 1996, and have been involved as a core team member for four years. In addition to teaching Scripture at NDA, I am involved in youth ministry and in program.
SM: As you work with individuals who are discovering or rediscovering their faith through Scripture, what have you noticed about the participants?
SMF: I always enjoy seeing how they can apply this in their everyday lives: in their places of work, in their communities. They are sharing the message.
Bob and Dorothy King (St. Gregory the Great Parish, Whittier) Bob and Kay Murdy (St. John Vianney Parish, Hacienda Heights) Sr. Edith
of Religious Education, Archdiocese of Los Angeles)
ESTABLISHED: 1994
“There are so many experiences that I enjoy with each participant and the group discussions... mentoring, listening to them share with each other and being a witness of their progress throughout the three year program.” - Lucy Shiffrin, SND Associate
SM: As a Sister of Notre Dame, what does it mean to you to watch your fellow sisters and associates go through this program?
SMF: It’s wonderful to see. Sr. graduating class in 1994. Sr. Shirley McGovern, currently in the program, brings this knowledge to her prison ministry. Associate Sherry Reynolds conducts a Bible Study at St. Paschal Baylon in Thousand Oaks. Working with the CBI has been a positive experience for me. I am excited to share this program so that more people have the opportunity to learn about the foundations of our faith.
SND Associate Jim Ford and Sr. Betty Mae Bienlein prepare for a Bible Study.
Engaging the World: A California Teacher Among Syrian Refugees
Written by: Sarah Marcuse
As we enjoy another glorious day in Southern California, surrounded by so much abundance, it’s easy to become detached from the world’s television screens in the evening. When something strikes us, most of us stop, acknowledge the sad news, and perhaps say a silent prayer...but is it enough? That was the dilemma for Theresa Thibodeaux, Religion Department Chair at La Reina High school. Before her time at La Reina, she was a teacher at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in Indianapolis, Indiana.
While teaching at Brebeuf in 2013, she noticed one of her students of Syrian descent visibly upset. Something in Theresa awakened when the distraught student shared news of the recent chemical attacks in Syria. The student had not received any contact with family members nor knew of their whereabouts due to the remembered this student’s family in prayer and hoped that soon they
support
for Theresa Thibodeaux’s visit to Lebanon. The Julie Fund provides resources for activities, projects and services to those who are homeless (such as the Syrian refugees) or suffer from poverty in its varied forms.
their location.
Present day, she teaches at La Reina High School & Middle School as the Syrian War rages on, entering in its sixth year. A student at La Reina, Anjali Biswas (LRHS Class of 2017) connected her with Syrian-American
As a guest speaker, Matar captivated the senior class with his documentary, The Children of Beqaa. Theresa said, “We were all deeply inspired by the work and the stories he [Matar]
told of the thousands of Syrian refugees who have taken refuge in Lebanon and other neighboring countries. When I heard him speak, I could not help but feel inspired to go.”
Last June Theresa had the opportunity to partner with Salam LADC, a Lebanese organization founded in response to the war, and provide direct assistance to Syrian refugees. The organization focuses its efforts on strengthening the capacities of the local municipalities and villages in Southern Lebanon for emergency preparedness. Theresa pointed out, “This whole crisis was sparked by a fourteen-year-old boy,
Al-Assad’ on the side of his all-boys school, in response to the success other Arab nations were having in overturning oppressive regimes in the Arab Spring of 2011. This boy’s expression of freedom of speech, for the desire for things to be better, was
resulting in over 500,000 people dead, and approximately 16 million displaced, with no true end in sight.”
Theresa’s heart and hands were put to the test as she witnessed the living conditions in several refugee settlements with the United Nations
Pictured left: Theresa had many opportunities to get to know the refugee women and their children.
Refugee Agency. Although they are exposed to the harsh elements and living in makeshift shelters, Theresa witnessed a pattern of joy and gratitude as they attempt to keep normality in their day to day lives. Theresa met with many residents retelling their heartbreaking stories; she saw life go on in a new normal. As children play among the war-torn landscape, the communities recognize that these children who will rebuild Syria in the future are arguably the most affected by this war. Children ages four through eleven are lucky if they receive thirty minutes of formal education a week.
A traveling school bus serves as the epicenter of instruction, with volunteers who teach the little students in the surrounding villages.
Children excitedly gather to see the school bus transform into a classroom. The School Bus Project gets its name from just that--a simple bus providing education to the smallest of the nation, who will one day be expected to lead their nation towards stability and change.
As we sit looking through Theresa’s album of pictures, I ask her what she wishes we at home would understand about the circumstances she witnessed. Her response is straightforward, “The most important and urgent message is that these people are just like us, that
description. The displaced Syrian people are students, fathers, mothers, doctors, musicians, clergy, architects, engineers, dancers, artists...PEOPLE! The intensity of the situation means they may not be able to return to their beloved homeland for a very long time. There will be a need here for a very long time, and many Americans have already grown cold--losing interest, while others still have no idea what’s going on.”
As she concludes her story, the air despair but only a desire to inform. When asked if she were to be blessed with another opportunity to return to help once more, her response was immediate, “Yes!” Whether or not she returns, Theresa’s mind and heart have already been transformed by a deep encounter with the world. and with ano to o immedia returns, have alr en
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Proceeds support the SND Life & Ministry Fund providing spiritual, educational and social outreach locally & around the world
As children play among the war-torn landscape, the communities recognize that those who will rebuild Syria are arguably the most affected by this war.
QUESTIONS/IDEAS? CONTACT
JEN COITO, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
CELEBRATING OUR 2017
Jubilarians
SISTER MARY JOANN SCHLARBAUM | 65 YEARS
When the speaker on a TED talk I watched recently said,
Sr. Mary Joann popped into my mind, and I immediately knew why. Since 1970, she has been a constant in my experience at Notre Dame Academy and with the Sisters of Notre Dame. As iPads have replaced books and home economics has been replaced by robotics, Sister’s warm smile and greeting always remind me of what has not changed and what remains at the heart of the SND and NDA mission. By being totally present and unrushed, by really seeing and listening to each person she encounters, Sr. Joann shows her deep belief in the dignity of each individual and her boundless love for all of us. She reminds me daily of what we should all be striving to be!
Meredeth Vogler, Assistant Principal, Notre Dame Academy, Los Angeles
SISTER DWINA MARIE TOWLE | 60 YEARS
Early in religious life, Sr. Dwina Marie Towle was inspired she looks back with joy, often expressing a sincere “thank you.” One of her characteristics is her willingness to serve wherever needed. Her ministries have included teaching, providing domestic services (in the kitchen and sewing room), overseeing maintenance and nursing. This variety “Wherever you go, take your heart with you, and you will always adjust to the new situation.” In responding to her vocation to love, she is grounded in God. This is the secret of her kindness and peace.
Sr. M. Regina Robbins
SISTER MARY KRISTIN BATTLES | 50 YEARS
Sr. Mary Kristin’s mother once stated, “If Kristin saw a road, she would venture down that road.” Now, Sr. Kristin enjoys
teacher, then principal of several schools in Northern and
Sr. Dwina Marie receives the congratulations of Sr. Mary Paulynne Tubick.
Sr. Mary Joann (center) receives the congratulations from members of her local community (Holy Family Community in West Los Angeles): Sr. Mary Jolisa Lazaro, Sr. Mary Frances Wahl, Sr. Anna Maria Vasquez and Sr. Mary Judeen Julier.
The Jubilee was a time for colleagues to reconnect. This photo shows three former principals of St. David’s School in Richmond, California: Sr. Mary Kristin Battles, Barbara Kringle, and Sr. Shirley Marie McGovern.
Capturing the joy of the liturgy are Deacon (and SND Associate) Joe Hamamoto, Deacon Dave Smith, Fr. Paul Hruby and Msgr. Michael Jennett—shown here with the jubilarians.
Southern California. While serving as Assistant Provincial, she inaugurated
Vision & Challenge newsletter. As Provincial Superior, she fostered lay leadership and coordinated a change in governance for the province’s sponsored institutions.
Little did she know that God’s plans for her would be so life-altering.
In 2010, Sr. Kristin was elected the tenth Superior General of the Congregation, and re-elected in 2016.
marvelous things the sisters are doing in 14 countries--serving the people of God in education, health
Remembering
Sister Mary Rose Anthony Ballard
July 11, 1930 – June 25, 2017
Sr. Rose Anthony treasured her friendship with Fr. John-Paul Gonzalez and his family. His mother, Mrs. Carmen Gonzalez, was Sr. Rose Anthony’s secretary in the religious education program at St. Rose of Lima in Simi Valley.
Sister Mary Rose Anthony was born Margaret Mary of Notre Dame at St. Francis of Assisi School when her family moved to Los Angeles in 1942. After graduating from St. Agnes High School in 1948, she became enter the California novitiate. She assumed the name Sr. M. Rose Anthony, with a special devotion to Our Lady of the Rosary, “Rosa Mystica.”
In 1964 she was asked to be the founding principal of St. Rose of Lima School in Simi Valley. She eventually received an Advanced Catechetical diploma, a Master’s Degree in Education, and an Archdiocesan Master
a Field Education supervisor for St. John’s Seminary. Whether ministering in a Catholic school or parish religious education program, Sr. Rose Anthony was devoted to her students’ spiritual development.
When Sister retired in 2002, she served as treasurer, sacristan, and switchboard receptionist. She continued her ministry of presence and prayer until her passing.
care, social ministries, pastoral work and missionary endeavors.
We have all been blest by her great deep spirituality, her willingness to take risks, and her enthusiasm for the journey she shares with the members of the Congregation and all whom we serve.
Sr. Betty Mae Bienlein
Sister Mary LaReina Kelly
July 30, 1943 - June 8, 2017
Sister Mary LaReina was born Colette Marie Kelly in Los Angeles, California. After graduating from Notre Dame Academy in 1961, she joined the Sisters of Notre Dame and received the name Mary LaReina.
In her role as president at La Reina High School, Sr. LaReina enjoyed working with the students during their Christian Service and Service Learning projects.
During her 51 years in educational ministries, Sr. LaReina was a teacher and administrator (in Southern and Northern California) and eventually, a supervisor in the Department of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. She led Notre Dame Academy Elementary School in Los Angeles as principal and then president. From 2005-2013, she served as the High School.
As a province and educational leader, Sr. LaReina collaborated with SND educators from around the world to develop the Education Vision Statement and Principles, formerly stated as the four cornerstones of SND education.
Her last two years were marked by an inspiring rhythm of prayer, exercise, and rest during her courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease.
RETURN SERVICES REQUESTED
The Grapevine
THE CALIFORNIA PROVINCE is opening a free pilot program, Sr.
Cristina Marie Buczkowski has researched and developed an outreach program for low-income children in Oxnard, and the SNDs will now be leasing space from the Oxnard Housing Authority in the Colonia area. The program will promote academic growth; cultivate respect; foster empathy, compassion and responsibility; and develop emotional and social growth in families. Activities will include homework tutoring, arts and crafts, and parenting classes. For information about volunteering, contact Sr. Cristina Marie at seph@sndca.org. Donations in support of SEPH are also welcome; contact info@sndca.org for more information.
The Sisters of Notre Dame Distinguished Graduate Award recognizes
National Education Partnership, as being outstanding witnesses to Notre Dame education. From the Class of 2017, the Distinguished Graduate Awardees from California schools included:
Michelle Heredia
La Reina High School & Middle School, Thousand Oaks
Alexia Diaz & Kristen Hull
Notre Dame Academy, Los Angeles
Zachary Mikhail
Notre Dame Academy Elementary School, Los Angeles
Fae Armstrong
Our Lady of the Assumption School, Ventura
Natalie Gonzalez & Pedro Ochoa
St. Helen School, South Gate
St. Jude the Apostle School, Westlake Village
Nathan Keelan & Regina O’Brien
St. Mary Magdalen School, Camarillo
Maria Beltran
IN HER ROLE as Executive Director of the Hilton Fund for Sisters, Sr. Gina Marie Blunck recently visited the SNDs in Mpala, Uganda and she shares these observations. “I was thrilled to see that the primary school in Mpala has grown to capacity, perhaps more than capacity. The group of SNDs in Mpala is constantly changing-the convent is truly a house of hospitality as sisters come and go, Tanzania and Uganda reside there, as well as the young Ugandan SND students. The Buseesa sisters were there during their break to do the shopping for food and school supplies for the new term. Although I was unable to visit Buseesa, I learned that the grant from the Hilton Fund for Sisters has allowed them to expand the internet and technology capacity for both the SNDs and the students.”
WE WISH to express our sympathy to Sr. M. Kristin Battles and her family on the passing of her mother, Mrs. Claire Battles.
PLEASE CONSIDER including the SNDs in your will or estate plan. Our legal title is the “Sisters of Notre Dame of Los Angeles” and our God bless you!