SND Network, Summer 2016 - Imagine the world as one!

Sisters of Notre Dame

Network Chardon Province

Summer 2016

One Heart, One Hope, One Mission

Table of Contents 2 East Africa: the Newest Unit of the Sisters of Notre Dame 8 SND Donor Luncheon Recognizes

Generosity of Others

13 Congratulations, Cavs!

14 Giving/Tribute 15 Sister Julie Boehnlein Receives 2016 Robert McCullough Lifetime Achievement Award

15 Sister Mary Berigan Honored as Local Hero as Part of “Hero and Poetry Program” 16 Congratulations, 2016 Jubilarians 30 In Memoriam 32 Regina Alumnae Association 33 SND Chicken BBQ

Send correspondence to: Network Sisters of Notre Dame 13000 Auburn Road Chardon, OH 44024 www.sndchardon.org 440.286.7101

on the cover: left to right – Sister Mary Sunday, Sister Michelle Kelly, Sister Anita Marie, Sister Mary Juliet, Sister Marie Manning, Sister Violet Marie

A LETTER FROM THE PROVINCIAL SUPERIOR

Dear Friends, Summer is here! As we enjoy the energetic summer days here on our Chardon Campus, I hope you and your family will have time to enjoy the season and each other.

Summer brings a renewed appreciation for the miracle of growth. Whether we are cultivating gardens, maintaining lawns, or fighting weeds, summer is filled with the vigor of new growth all around us.

This spring we caught a vivid glimpse of new growth in the Sisters of Notre Dame when we had the pleasure of welcoming some of our African Sisters to the Chardon campus.

Sister Annete Adams departed in 1998 to volunteer in the Uganda mission founded by our California and Covington Sisters.

Later she moved to Tanzania, Kenya where she worked with our Indian Sisters in their mission. Today both mission foundations are united in a single community that will one day become a new province. Sisters from India, the United States, Kenya and Uganda are forming an intercultural community centered on the SND mission in an African context. We can already imagine a world without borders.

What a delight it was to meet some of our youngest Sisters on their first trip to the United States. You will read about what drew them to the Sisters of Notre Dame, and their dedication to education, even deep in the bush of Buseesa. You will also read about Sister Annete’s love for these young Sisters, and her passionate dedication to their growth and education.

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

Summer is likewise the season for celebrating the anniversaries of our Sisters.

As you read the brief outlines of their varied ministries, think of how many lives they have touched and how much good they have done. Perhaps you will recognize someone who touched your life. For each jubilarian, her life of service began years ago with a lengthy formation and education much like the excellent training Sister Annete gave to our young Ugandan Sisters. Despite pressing needs for more schools and teachers, these young women are first receiving a thorough education that will prepare them to be effective throughout their lives. We can only imagine the transformational impact that they will have in their native Africa through the ministries and community that are just beginning today. This is what your generosity brings to life. Thanks to you, our partners in mission, we can envision a future full of hope.

May your summer days be filled with abundant life and many blessings!

Gratefully,

Sister Margaret M. Gorman, SND Provincial Superior Sisters of Notre Dame, Chardon

Summer 2016

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EAST AFRICA:

The Newest Unit of the Sisters of Notre Dame

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ne year ago, the Tanzania mission founded by the Patna (India) province and the Uganda mission founded by the California and Covington, Kentucky provinces combined to form the East Africa Delegation. Visitors to Chardon this spring brought new insight into the life and promise of this youngest unit of the international SND congregation.

Sister Annete Adams initially thought Africa would be a three-year stint. She enthusiastically asked to go to Africa to work as a missionary, and three years turned into 19 years.

Sister Annete smiles and admits, “Now, when I am here in the United States for a time, I start getting homesick. Africa has become my home, and they have become my people. I really do love the land and its people a lot.�

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FAST FACTS 25.5 to 1 student-to-teacher ratio in Buseesa nursery school.

12 sisters from Uganda have professed vows.

if borders limited access to places in need of care.

“I wanted to be with the people to teach them more about Jesus and His life,” Sister Annete explains. “I thought the African people would be unschooled, but they have tremendous faith.”

Initially, Sister taught third grade at a new school the Sisters of Notre Dame began in Uganda, St. Julie Model Primary Boarding School.

Then, Sister was asked to start

“I REALLY FELT PRIVILEGED TO BE A PART OF THE SACRED JOURNEY OF THESE YOUNG WOMEN WHO WANTED TO BE SISTERS.” - Sister Annete Adams

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

a formation program for young women who desired to join the religious congregation. She worked with candidates in Uganda, and then spent 11 years in Tanzania at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Together with missionary Sisters from India, Sister Annete was part of the formation team for young women from Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, and Mozambique.

“I really felt privileged to be a part of the sacred journey of these young women who wanted to be Sisters.

It was challenging but life-giving,” reflects Sister Annete. “I also taught them theology, the history of the congregation, human development and various other courses that would enable them to know the Sisters of Notre Dame congregation as well as be able to make positive contributions to society.”

All during the past 19 years Sister Annete wrote vivid newsletters describing her life in Africa and returned home regularly with photos and stories. But the profound impact of her work really came alive when four Sisters from Uganda visited the Chardon provincial center in May. All four had received their introduction to religious life from Sister Annete.

Sisters Violet Marie, Anita Marie, Mary Juliet and Mary Sunday were all smiles and questions as they toured Notre Dame Education Center and greeted Notre Dame Elementary School students. All four have made temporary vows and are still in formation, a time of education and beginning ministry in preparation for making their permanent commitment.

This was the first time each Sister has visited the United States.

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FAST FACTS: One all-girls secondary school in Buseesa (approximately 180 students) NDA ranked first in Kibaale District; 29th in Uganda. (out of more than 3,000 schools.

Last year, we were 56th!)

Sister Violet Marie, 27, is responsible for the 27-acre farm that feeds the 500 students and teachers of St. Julie Model Primary Boarding “THEY SHARED WITH ME School in Buseesa, THE CHARISM OF THE Uganda. Located in SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME a remote area where AND DEEP IN MY HEART all of the students I KNEW THIS WAS THE and teachers have CONGREGATION I WANTED to live on campus, TO JOIN.” the school relies on solar panels and rain - Sister Anita Marie barrels to meet all of their needs. Without the farm the school could not function. Together with 22 other people Sister Violet Marie raises vegetables, sweet potatoes, bananas, and pineapples as well as pigs, goats, and chickens. “We had problems collecting and cooking with firewood.

It was very costly. Engineers without Borders, from Cincinnati, came and worked with the Sisters to implement biogas, a much cheaper fuel.”

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In addition to working on the farm during the day, Sister Violet Marie teaches at Notre Dame Senior Secondary Academy in Buseesa.

Her days are long but rewarding.

Sister Violet Marie learned about the Sisters of Notre Dame through a friend who was studying at St. Julie Model Primary Boarding School.

“She told me about the Sisters who wore skirts and blouses,” she recalls with a giggle. “At first I told her I did not want to be a Sister, but I started asking how I could learn more about these Sisters.”

Eventually she pedaled her bicycle seven miles to meet the Sisters at the Cathedral. “I was invited to come to where they lived, another six-hour journey. I went there – a place I had never seen to meet a group of people I didn’t know. Now here I am!”

Like Sister Violet Marie, Sister Anita Marie, 26, recalls, “I came

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Dancing and Singing with the Ugandan Sisters. This is their distinct way to say thank you for the hospitality!

FAST FACTS: One farm that provides food for mission and employment for local residents of Buseesa.

• 12 Sisters from Uganda have professed vows. to know the Sisters of Notre Dame through my uncle who studied with the Sisters. By grade 5, I wanted to be a Sister, but my parents said I was too young. I went on to finish primary and high school, and again shared with my family that I wanted to become a Sister. At the time, I did not know about Sisters of Notre Dame. My uncle told me he knew of a congregation and they would need to interview me. I traveled nine hours to Kampala and lived with the Sisters for one week.

They shared with me the charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame and deep in my heart I knew this was the congregation I wanted to join.”

Today, Sister Anita Marie works at St. Julie Model Primary Boarding School in Buseesa, teaching English, religion, reading, spelling and phonics.

Her class of 45 fourth graders keeps her busy. She hopes to continue her education and graduate from college.

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

Sister Mary Juliet, 22, teaches at an senior level), I did not want to SND nursery school in Mpala, near continue my education but become a Sister of Notre Dame. It was hard the capital of Kampala. “I live in on my family. In Uganda, you are a different community from these not allowed to make any decisions other three Sisters. It is about five for yourself until age 18.” hours from our Buseesa Mission,” she describes. She recalls visiting homes and asking families to send “I AM SO HAPPY TO BE their children to the new school.

SERVING THE LORD TODAY.” Today, approximately 205 children attend their Notre Dame daycare - Sister Mary Juliet and preschool.

“I came to know of this congregation through two people: a priest and a former student,” Sister Mary Juliet remembers with a smile. “Where I was born, they did not know about the Sisters. In grade 2, I wanted to be a Sister.

My people laughed at me. But as I grew up, I again told my sister, and she helped with my parents. I felt the call deeply within me. By grade 5 (grade 5 does not mean elementary school but refers to

Sister Mary Juliet says it was the day she prayed the rosary in tears, crying out for the Lord to help, that her father finally gave his blessing to join. “I am so happy to be serving the Lord today,” she exclaims.

Sister Mary Sunday, 30, has been a Sister of Notre Dame for six years.

She received her teaching diploma from Nkumba University, and today teaches grades 5 and 6 reading, religion, computer, music, and Summer 2016

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Mission Timeline 1995 Covington SNDs arrive in Buseesa 1998 St. Julie Model Primary opens

in Buseesa; offers grades P3-P7 2003 Notre Dame Senior Secondary Academy

opens in Buseesa 2005 St. Julie Model Primary School adds grades P1

(P2 in 2006) 2006 First Sisters from Uganda make their vows 2008 St. Julie Nursery School opens in Buseesa 2010 House of Studies and Formation opens in Mpala 2011 Notre Dame Nursery School opens in Mpala 2014 House of Formation moves to Buseesa 2016 New St. Julie Nursery School underway

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Sister Annete Adams, SND, missionary in Africa

traditional arts at St. Julie Model Primary School in Buseesa. She also teaches grade 2 religion and grades 6 and 7 computer.

Sister laughs when she describes how she became a Sister of Notre Dame.

“I was chosen to be in a procession in grade 2. They dressed me in a white veil, blue dress, and cape – so I looked like a Sister! My sister took a picture of me in the procession. I looked so smart. I kept looking at it.

Every time I looked at that picture, I thought of myself becoming a Sister.”

As the years went by, Sister Mary Sunday says her desire to become a Sister never diminished. “So many other congregations came to our school and asked us to join their congregation. They had lists of requirements we had to fulfill.

Finally, Sisters of Notre Dame came to our school. I was so happy

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FAST FACTS: One primary school in Buseesa (approximately 260 students) Two nursery schools—one in Mpala, one in Buseesa (approximately 200 students)

about what they told us – of their mission to proclaim God’s love and provident care. I asked about their requirements and how much

“ THEY HAVE A DEEP TRUST IN GOD. WORKING IN AFRICA HAS BEEN VERY REWARDING.” - Sister Annete Adams

money I needed to join. Unlike other congregations, they said, ‘No, you just come with what you have.’

I did not have to bring my own bed, bed clothing, money, etc. I was just told I need to be well behaved, study hard, and be a good girl.’”

The four young Sisters spoke exceptional English, another

subject taught thoroughly in the formation program. While there are 24 different tribal languages in Uganda, English is the national language and the unifying language of the congregation.

While visiting the Chardon province, these four young women from simple, remote villages were completely at ease whether talking with students or adults. When people exclaimed about their poise and self-confidence, Sister Annete just smiled and said “We train them for leadership from the very beginning. They have an important mission, and we want them to be able to make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Sister Annete is currently serving on the leadership team of the new East Africa Delegation, headquartered

in Nairobi, Kenya. The dedicated missionary just founded an Associate Program, engaging lay people near her home. “We began with eight men and women from the surrounding area. It is another way to share who we are as Sisters of Notre Dame and spread our charism and mission,” says Sister Annete enthusiastically.

She continues, “Each place I lived in Africa was so different, with a culture all its own. Initially, I needed to become acclimated to the weather, food, language, etc. Now it really has become my home. The people around me have a great deal of faith. Sometimes, it puts me to shame. They have a deep trust in God. Working in Africa has been very rewarding.”

The missionaries won’t be there forever, but clearly the mission will live on!

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IMA SND Donor Luncheon Recognizes Generosity of Others 8

David J. Golya, Sister Marie Manning and Sister Kay O’Malley

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making a gift that may impact generations to come.

Each year, the Sisters of Notre Dame sponsor a Partners in Mission donor recognition luncheon to thank individuals and organizations for their ongoing generosity and kindness to the Sisters of Notre Dame, Chardon Province. The event includes a Eucharistic celebration and luncheon at the Notre Dame Education Center. This year, the Sisters paid special tribute to donors Kathleen D.H. Carr & The Loyola Foundation, Inc. as well as David J. Golya for their ongoing commitment and faithful support through the years. In addition, Joanne Liebenauer was honored as “Volunteer Extraordinaire.� The luncheon occurred on Sunday, April 17 with more than 180 friends and Sisters in attendance.

Partners in Mission

Margaret Wong, Sister Margaret Gorman and Cecilia Wong

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

Andy Bushman and Sister Debra Doig

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Kathleen (Kelly) D.H. Carr & The Loyola Foundation, Inc. In 1957, Albert G. McCarthy, Jr., his wife Kathleen (Kelly), along with their children, A.G. McCarthy III and Kathleen Denise Hattler, established a family foundation dedicated to the missionary spirit of the Catholic Church. Unique among its United States peers, The Loyola Foundation is primarily dedicated to supporting overseas Catholic mission communities in less-developed countries. The Foundation’s Board of Trustees is composed of descendants of the founder, distinguished clergy, prominent business leaders, and noted attorneys. To date, The Loyola Foundation has awarded more than $45 million in small grants, benefitting some 6,000 projects around the world.

“My grandfather was trained and educated by Jesuits from high school through receiving an honorary doctorate degree from Georgetown University”, Kelly explains. “He was a successful international businessman, and he would describe how he was often ‘besieged by little nuns’ asking him to support their mission work overseas. He

felt the best way to organize and be more strategic in giving was to establish The Loyola Foundation.

I share the mission and vision of my grandfather, mother and uncle who established this foundation. I happen to be able to play Santa Claus, but they were the ones who did the hard work making the money and establishing the foundation.”

Kelly says she has been privileged to visit some of the recipients of these grants including missions in Kenya, South Africa, Chili and India. “It is humbling to see how the Sisters use the dollars and pennies to do so much for so many people – not just improving their lives but helping them grow spiritually and closer to God.” Kelly’s interaction with the Sisters of Notre Dame began many years ago when her daughter Kady was in second grade. Rather than attending the afterschool program, Kady preferred spending time helping her teacher, Sister Marian Coughlin, SND. A lifelong friendship between the family and Sister Marian developed and with it a shared interest in Sister Marian’s favorite mission project, the SND India Mission.

“Sister Maresa also related some of her work in the Philippines and her role in leading the Sisters in Vietnam,” Kelly states. “It’s amazing to hear about their work in a communist nation – a nation that we lost to in the war as well – as their presence in South Korea and China. The lives they are touching will cause a ripple effect around the world.”

For the past 19 years, The Loyola Foundation has provided resources for the numerous ministries and initiatives of the SND. And it all began with a student’s interest in helping her teacher after school.

Kelly Carr, Sister Marian Coughlin and Kady Carr 10

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David J. Golya David J. Golya has been a faithful friend of the Sisters of Notre Dame for more than three decades.

Dave first became interested in supporting the SND Global Missions upon hearing friends talk about their mission work, particularly Sisters Kay O’Malley, Sally Huston, and Karen Somerville.

(Sister Kay and Dave were camp counselors together in their youth at Camp Christopher in Bath, Ohio.) Since that time, Dave has contributed annually to the missions.

After more than 30 years of financially supporting the Sisters of Notre Dame, in 2014 he asked Sister Marie Manning if he could visit one of the Notre Dame missions in India. Sister Marie was thrilled to help orchestrate the visit.

“On the property of the National Thermal Power Corporation in Badarpur, I visited a Notre Dame School where Sisters educate children.

Unfortunately, it was a holiday so I did not actually get to observe a classroom. Still, it was very

impressive. Children working in the field are able to attend school when their work in the fields is done.

That makes for a very long day. The Sisters’ first priority is to educate the young girls in the workers’ families and any girls in the surrounding area,” Dave explains. “I firmly believe, as they do, that once women become educated and take their place in society, they will change the world.”

During his adventurous trip to the “Heart of India,” Dave traveled with a charitable missionary heart, enlarged by many years of commitment to children living in poverty, both locally and globally. His Notre Dame “Partners in Mission” now include not only local connections, but Sisters of Notre Dame in Badarpur, Delhi, India. Dave concludes, “I trust the Sisters implicitly when it comes to their using donations wisely. I enjoy reading updates in Network. This publication is really very informative and impacts those who receive it.”

David J. Goyla, middle, celebrating with friends and family.

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Joanne Liebenauer, Volunteer Extraordinaire Joanne Liebenauer began volunteering her time and talents for the Sisters of Notre Dame in 2009. Since then, Joanne has logged more than 2,000 hours of service!

Joanne’s varied background in business, healthcare, and school administration gave her the perfect skill set to jump right in at the SND Education Center after retiring from fulltime employment. Previously, Joanne worked for 10 years as the office secretary for Sister Josephmarie Bunosky (now deceased) at St. Anselm School. The two became very close over the years and were reunited in retirement in the Mission Advancement Office at the SND Education Center.

“I’ve been associated with the Sisters of Notre Dame since they taught my children at St. Anselm School and my two girls at Notre Dame Academy,” Joanne states. “I love volunteering for the Sisters. They are all so precious. I used to volunteer twice a week but had a horrible car accident. Now I volunteer one day a week and need to use a cane.”

At 75 years of age, Joanne still plans to continue volunteering for the Sisters. “I’m so grateful for the Sisters. I think of them as my own sisters. I love every one of them.”

The loving, generous volunteer says she spends the majority of her time interacting with Sisters in the SND Healthcare Center in Chardon. She enjoys singing with the Sisters, wheeling them outside when the weather permits, reading and playing games with them.

“It really depends on the health of the Sister and what she would like to do. For those who are very sick, sometimes we just talk or I read to them.”

“Joanne brings a calming, consistent presence to Sisters in the Healthcare Center in addition to her work in the Gallery Gift Shop and countless hours spent helping organize the yearly SND BBQ event,” says Sister Margaret Gorman, Provincial Superior for the SND Chardon Province. “She is willing to take on any task and commits to a regular weekly schedule, which provides the necessary structure important for volunteers in the Healthcare Center.”

“I think it would be wonderful for others to volunteer as well,” adds Joanne with a smile.

“You feel like you are really helping. It is very rewarding. I will continue to volunteer for the Sisters of Notre Dame as long as I can.”

Joanne enjoying her family at the Mission event.

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www.sndchardon.org

Congratulations,

Cavs!

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Summer 2016

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IMAGINE being the next one to make a difference!

By giving to the Sisters of Notre Dame... you not only provide support to the Sisters themselves, but to the many ministries they provide both locally and abroad. Your gift to the SND community continues to help people in our neighborhoods by providing support, compassion and education to those in need.

Such programs include prison ministry, anti-human trafficking ministry, adult literacy, pastoral care, children’s crisis centers, global missions and much more. A gift large or small makes a difference!

We Can Help If you would like to make a gift or need more information on the Sisters of Notre Dame please visit our website at www.sndchardon.org or call Dena Adler, Director of Advancement at 440-279-1176 or dadler@ndec.org.

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www.sndchardon.org

Sister Julie Boehnlein receives 2016 ROBERT

MCCULLOUGH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Sister Julie Boehnlein received the 2016 Robert McCullough Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the Geauga Park District at the annual Volunteer Celebration on April 16.

Sister Julie joined the Geauga Park District in 2006, bringing a wealth of experience as well as her passion for learning. She has volunteered in nearly every aspect of the park district including The Great Geauga County Fair, bluebird boxes, special exhibits and events, scout programs, festivals and Sap’s A Risin’. As a retired teacher, she has a special dedication for school programming. She completed the Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist program, and Sister Julie has logged more than 2,500 volunteer hours, sharing her love and respect for the natural environment.

IMAGINE Congratulations, Sister Julie, on your outstanding achievements!

if all people reached out their hands in service.

Sister Mary Berigan honored as local hero as part of “HERO AND POETRY PROGRAM” On March 9, the 4th and 5th graders at St. Mary School in Elyria honored their heroes with a “Hero and Poetry Program.” Sister Mary Berigan, SND, of Blessing House, was honored to make the list of local heroes! Other heroes included local police officers, a paramedic, a nurse, a Boy Scout leader and veteran and more.

Students were asked to identify a local hero and write a letter to their hero inviting them to the celebration. The students were also asked to write a biography on why they think the person is a hero. These biographies were read during the program after which the hero was presented with an award designed by the students.

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

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2016 SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME

JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS

IMA

JOY 75 Years JUBILEE OF

SISTER MARY HELEN CHASAR (formerly Sister Mary Leanette)

As a young girl, Sister Mary Helen was drawn to the cheerfulness and friendliness of her Sisters of Notre Dame teachers, but she was not thinking of entering the order. That all changed when she accompanied her friend to the convent to return what would become a very important book in Sister’s life.

“I read a book, Convent Life, and that did it,” she recalls. “The Sisters gave it to me in 1938. I entered September 8, 1938 through St. Benedict, Cleveland, OH. Now 16

that’s divine providence! I felt called to join. The Spirit just zapped me!”

Sister taught mostly primary grades, spending the majority of her teaching years in Northeast Ohio Between 1941 and 2008, she served as principal, teacher, tutor, or classroom aide at 23 different schools, beginning with St. Michael, Cleveland, and ending with Notre Dame Elementary, Chardon, OH. She earned a 23-year break from Northeast Ohio weather when she taught at St. Joseph, Winter Haven, FL; Incarnation School, Sarasota, FL; and Sacred Heart Academy, Winchester, VA.

GRACE 70 Years JUBILEE OF

SISTER JEANMARIE DECHANT

Sister Jeanmarie entered the SND community through her home parish of St. Teresa, Sheffield, OH. She now resides in Oberlin with her sister, Sister Now dedicated to prayer, presence Rosemarie Dechant, SND. Harkening and praise at the Provincial Center, back to their childhood years on Chardon, Sister tries to model each a farm in Sheffield Village, Sister day by the scripture passage, “This is Rosemarie enjoys flower and vegetable the day that the Lord has made, let gardening, while Sister Jeanmarie us rejoice and be glad in it.” does much of the cooking. The Sisters “God’s goodness, love and constant remain active in their community by assisting neighbors and aiding the care are greater than I can imagine homeless through their parish. each day,” she says.

Reflecting on her vocation, Sister recalls a pivotal event that influenced her faith formation. “I think the death www.sndchardon.org

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A life of caring, a Sisterhood of Humanity.

of my three-year-old sister had quite an impact on me,” she says. “It happened during my junior year at NDA. It was quite an experience.”

Sister Jeanmarie had a special devotion to teaching underprivileged children. She taught in Cleveland’s inner-city schools, including Our Lady of Lourdes, St. Peter, and St. Michael before earning her Ph.D. from Catholic University of America, Washington D.C., in 1968. She then taught in higher education, serving as a professor of chemistry at Notre Dame College for more than 40 years, while continuing to tutor inner-city high school students.

SISTER MARY RONAULD FROHNAPPLE

Sister Mary Ronauld spent most of her teaching years in the southern Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

United States. She taught primary grades at schools in Florida, Virginia, and North Carolina. She served as principal of Our Lady of Lourdes School, Dunedin, FL; St. Francis of Assisi, Gates Mills, OH; and Our Lady of Lourdes School in Raleigh, NC. After retiring, Sister tutored in the Notre Dame Skills Lab, Chardon, ministered to the homebound, and served on the prayer phone line. She now devotes her time to prayer, presence and praise at the Provincial Center.

When interviewed for her 65-year jubilee in 2011, Sister explained why she was drawn to the SNDs: “I loved the Sisters and the way they treated us as students, and the way they treated other people. I felt this when I first had the Sisters of Notre Dame in junior high. They taught us to love God, how much God loved us, and to build a very special relationship with God. I had always liked my work with the children and I especially loved religious life.

It was a place that I knew God had for me.”

SISTER MARY SHARONE MATONEY

With the exception of third grade, Sister Mary Sharone taught all grade levels at several schools in Cleveland and South Euclid, OH. She was principal in Warrenton, VA and Youngstown, OH. For 18 years, she served as principal of Julie Billiart School in Lyndhurst, OH, a school for children with special learning needs.

During an interview conducted in 2011, Sister Mary Sharone said the example that the Sisters set at Notre Dame Academy moved her and touched her heart. Her love for the poor and her calling to help specialneeds children remain dear to her.

Sister currently resides in the Health Care Center, Chardon.

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2016 SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME

JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS

SISTER MARY ANDREW MILLER (formerly Sister Mary St. Andrew)

I’m happy to be here and happy to be alive.” Sister Mary Andrew is thankful for her fellow Sisters of Notre Dame, especially her younger sister, Sister Mary Joanne Miller, who resides near her at the Provincial Center, Chardon.

SISTER MARY ROMAN RESS

Sister Mary Andrew credits her SND grade school and high school teachers for inspiring her to enter the community; she did so through Our Lady of Lourdes, Cleveland. From 1945 until 2001, she spent most of her time in Ohio as a teacher, principal, curriculum writer, curriculum consultant, textbook writer, music teacher, and choir director. She co-authored a series of religion books and readers.

She consulted on and edited an English workbook series and was responsible for the book, Ohio: The Heart of It All. Her most recent ministry is with the ND Connection newsletter, which Sister has written for and edited.

Sister shares her favorite scripture, Micah 6:8: “This only the Lord asks of you. To act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with your God. “ “That sounds very simple, but it’s not easy to do,” she says. “I’m very grateful to God for all of His blessings. And for the fact that I still have my marbles! I’ll be 90 in July.

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Though she wanted to join the Sisters of Notre Dame after her eighth-grade year at St. Mary School, Massillon, OH, Sister Mary Roman entered after graduating from high school and spending one year in the workforce. After she answered the call to religious life and taught grade school for several years, Sister answered a second call.

“I always wanted to be a nurse,” she explains. “The hospital was near our home. When I was very small, I would look out the parlor window and say that I was watching the people as they came in.”

Sister earned bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in nursing.

She practiced and taught nursing and opened a nursing home in Canton, OH. The last several years of her nursing career were devoted

to health care for the Sisters of Notre Dame community.

On being a Sister of Notre Dame, “It means everything,” she says. “I always wanted to be a Sister. I think the SNDs are very special women.

The Eucharist is very important to us.

Up here in my room (in the Health Care Center), I can participate in everything. We participate in the Mass, and they bring us Communion.

We have a wonderful health care center–I worked in it for many years.”

Sister is especially thankful for her family for supporting her calling. “If it hadn’t been for my three brothers, who took good care of my mother after my father died, I wouldn’t have been able to (join the SNDs).”

SISTER MARY JANE ROHR (formerly Sister Mary St. Jane)

Throughout her 70 years as a Sister of Notre Dame, Sister Mary Jane dedicated herself to education.

She was a primary and junior high teacher, principal, tutor, regional superintendent, and community elementary supervisor. After teaching, she served as a bookkeeper at Cleveland’s Archbishop Lyke School www.sndchardon.org

and ministered to the homebound.

When interviewed in 2011, Sister shared reflections on her call to the community.

“I always wanted to be a Sister,” says Sister Mary Jane. “I never changed my mind. When I was in the first grade at St. Michael School, my teacher asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I said, ‘a Sister of Notre Dame.’”

“I have always tried to live well, to love much and to laugh often. We need that in elementary school teaching.”

When asked about Sister Mary Louismarie, her fellow Sisters say that she has always displayed a great love for children and teaching.

Throughout her ministry, she had a special devotion to First Communicants. She truly enjoyed preparing second graders to receive Jesus and believed the greatest gift was to teach children about the sacrament of the Eucharist.

Willoughby, OH. She taught high school for more than 20 years. Other ministries included vocation director, candidate director and junior director at the Provincial Center, Chardon. There, she also worked in the Advancement and Development offices and was a nursing assistant in the Health Care Center. Sister says she did many different things—with the exceptions of cooking and sewing.

SISTER MARY PATRICIA PASEK

“They didn’t want me to poison the community, and they were afraid of what they might have to wear if I sewed it,” she jokes.

(formerly Sister Mary John Therese)

IRON JUBILEE 65 Years

While teaching freshman religion class at NDA, Sister asked her students and herself, “What is life to you?” “I said that, to me, life is really an adventure,” she says. “You don’t know what God has in store for you next.”

SISTER MARY LOUISMARIE NUDO

Sister adds that she receives a spiritual boost when she sings or thinks of certain songs. One song from the As an eighth-grader at Holy Family Breaking Bread hymnal is a particular School, Cleveland, Sister Mary favorite, “Love One Another.” Sister is Patricia along with several classmates drawn to the lyrics, “Love one another attended a play at Notre Dame as I have loved you, care for one another Academy. Upon entering the school, as I have cared for you.”

Sister felt right at home.

Inspired by her fourth-grade teacher, Sister Mary Louismarie knew she wanted to be a Sister of Notre Dame. For 48 years, Sister taught primary grades in Washington, Virginia, Florida, and Ohio schools, including St. Joseph School in Randolph, OH. She now resides in the Health Care Center, Chardon.

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

“I felt a warmth and a joy there that found its roots in the Sisters,” she recalls. “At that time, I was not thinking of becoming a Sister of Notre Dame or any other Sister. It was something intangible, but it was very real for me.”

Sister Mary Patricia attended NDA and entered the community through Immaculate Conception Church, Summer 2016

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SISTER MARY LORETTA PASTVA (formerly Sister Mary Agnes Ann)

publications, including “Editions du Signe,” “History of SND Missions in Africa,” and “History of the Chardon Province.” Today, Sister Loretta serves in outreach ministries for Lake-Geauga Habitat for Humanity.

Sister, who says that a guiding conviction of her life is trust, is inspired by Habakkuk 3:17-19:

Sister Loretta attended St. Michael High School, Cleveland, and entered the SND community through St. James Church, Lakewood, OH. She felt called to her vocation at a young age.

“God drew me to religious life,” she says. “I had a deep experience of happiness as a child, and I recognized it as coming from God. As a child, I would often look at a holy card that the Sisters of Notre Dame gave my parents at their marriage. The handwriting was so beautiful that I imagined the Sisters who wrote their congratulations were beautiful, too.”

Sister taught high school in several Northeast Ohio schools, including Elyria Catholic and St. Michael, Cleveland. At Notre Dame College, she was director of the catechetics program and assistant professor. She taught in the Regina Pacis Province, South Korea, and served as a booklet editor at the Generalate, Rome. At the Provincial Center, she was an editor and writer for several 20

“For the fig tree is not to blossom, nor will the vines bear fruit, the olive crop will disappoint and the fields will yield no food…But I shall rejoice in Yahweh, I shall exalt in God my Savior. Yahweh my Lord is my strength.”

DIAMOND JUBILEE

60 Years

SISTER JOAN MARIE BUDA (formerly Sister Mary John Raymond)

Years before Sister Joan Marie joined the SNDs through Our Lady of Good Counsel, Cleveland, she knew that she wanted to be a Sister.

“In eighth grade, I considered entering the Sisters of the Precious Blood aspirant school,” she says.

“In high school at St. Michael, I was approached in my senior year by our former Sister Sean. Thus, my adventure in Notre Dame began.”

Sister taught grades four through eight in several Ohio schools, including St. Joseph, Randolph; Our Lady of Lourdes, Cleveland (principal); and St. Peter, Lorain. Most recently, she was payroll manager, technology assistant, sacristan, and driver at the Provincial Center, Chardon. Currently, she devotes herself to the craft boutique and prayer, presence and praise ministries.

Sister Joan Marie, who loves to pray the Peace Prayer of St. Francis, shares her favorite scripture passage from Isaiah 26:12: “O Lord you mete out peace to us, for it is you who have accomplished all we have done.”

SISTER MARY DEBORAH CARLIN

Sister Deborah answered her call to religious life after attending St. Ignatius of Antioch grade school and graduating from St. Stephen High School. She entered the SND community through SS. Philip and James Parish, Cleveland. www.sndchardon.org

“From the time of First Communion, I wanted to be a Sister,” she says. “I chose the order that taught in my high school.”

Sister’s teaching ministry led her to several schools, including Notre Dame Academy, Los Angeles, CA; Notre Dame Academy, Middleburg, VA; Lorain Catholic, Lorain, OH (principal); Notre Dame Academy, Chardon (assistant principal); and Clearwater Central Catholic, Clearwater, FL. She served as director of religious education at St. Agnes, Arlington, VA and Guardian Angels Catholic School, Clearwater, FL, and director of catechetical ministry at Guardian Angels Catholic School, Dunedin, FL. She now resides at the Provincial Center where she ministers to the homebound, assists at Bethany Retreat Center, and devotes time to prayer, presence and praise. Also, she is an aide in the second-grade classroom at Notre Dame Elementary School, Chardon.

“The most compelling reality in my life is that God is love, desiring the happiness of all people,” Sister Deborah says. “In this Year of Mercy, that remains my focus.”

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

SISTER MARY THERESA GEBURA (formerly Sister Mary Magdelene)

“I live it through Mother Teresa’s saying: ‘Make all of your life something beautiful for God.’ I fulfill these inspirations through my ministry of food service.”

SISTER MARY JEAN HOELKE (formerly Sister Mary Ann Regina)

When she was in second grade, Sister Mary Theresa first thought of becoming a nun because of the kindness of her teacher, Sister Carmel.

“I finally decided in my senior year at St. Michael School during retreat,” she says. “I entered the following September through St. Wendelin, Cleveland.”

For more than five decades, Sister Mary Theresa was dedicated to the food service ministry in many schools, including Notre Dame College; Gesu, University Heights, OH; St. Gregory, South Euclid, OH; and Julie Billiart School, Lyndhurst. She assisted with food planning at the Health Care Center and Provincial Center dining room and served in the craft ministry.

Most recently, she was a therapy dog handler and devotes herself to prayer, presence and praise and the BBQ country kitchen. Sister says she strives to live her life according to the great commandment: Love God with all your heart and soul.

During her senior year of high school, Sister Mary Jean experienced the call to dedicate her life to God. She entered the community through St. Ignatius of Antioch Parish, Cleveland.

“While I was initially attracted to the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, I chose the Sisters of Notre Dame because I witnessed their commitment and joy,” she says.

Sister taught at St. Margaret Mary, South Euclid, before becoming principal at several schools, including St. Anselm, Chesterland, OH (principal and teacher); St. Jude, Elyria; Gesu, University Heights; and Notre Dame Elementary School, Chardon.

At the Provincial Center, she was named assistant provincial superior, elementary education ministries director, provincial councilor, and local coordinator.

“Life is a spiritual journey on which I continually meet Jesus in people, events and nature,” she says. “I am nourished on my journey by scripture and the Eucharist. The gospel account of the Summer 2016

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two disciples conversing with Jesus on their way to Emmaus holds deep meaning for me. My relationship with Jesus shapes my ministry and my choices.”

Sister Mary Jean resides at the Julie Billiart residence and is a trustee emerita at Notre Dame College. She serves as a ministry discernment team member and elementary education coordinator.

SISTER MARY CHARLOTTE MANZO (formerly Sister Mary Verna Rose)

Sister Charlotte taught grades four through six in several Ohio schools, namely St. Margaret Mary, South Euclid; St. Mary, Avon; and St. Paschal Baylon, Highland Heights.

After her teaching years, she served as librarian at Christ the King, East Cleveland; secretary at St. Francis, Cleveland; and library assistant and tutor at Julie Billiart, Lyndhurst.

Today, Sister Charlotte is a librarian at the Provincial Center, Chardon.

“Right now, our jubilee invitations say ‘grace and gratitude,’” Sister says of her 60-year milestone. “I’m just trying to live in gratitude for all the blessings I’ve been given and being here with all the beauty in nature and the wonderful Sisters I live with.”

SISTER ANNAMAE MURPHY (formerly Sister Denismarie)

Before joining the SND community through St. Mary Church, Elyria, OH Sister Charlotte formed close bonds with the Sisters who taught at the parish school. After all, they were her neighbors.

“We lived close to St. Mary, right across a little alleyway,” she says.

“We often helped the Sisters. I went to Elyria Catholic High School, and had SNDs there also. I grew to like them and felt called to join them. The Sisters were very friendly and welcoming. I enjoyed being with them.”

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“When I went to Notre Dame, I was so touched by the love and concern the Sisters showed toward all the students that I decided to join the order,” she says. “I also enjoyed seeing the novices and postulants. The prayer services held and attended by the Sisters deeply touched me as a high school student.”

Sister taught primary grades at St. Boniface, Cleveland; St. Anselm, Chesterland; and others before becoming principal at nine schools, including St. Peter, Canton; St. Benedict, Cleveland; and St. John, Warrenton, VA. At St. Peter School and Parish, Lorain, she was principal, local coordinator, and is now administrative assistant.

“I have just completed my 58th year in education and have lived with the quote, ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to bring good news to the poor,’” she says. “This has been my mission, my journey and my life.”

SISTER ELIZABETH MARIE SCANLON (formerly Sister Thomas Marie)

Years before she graduated from Notre Dame Academy, Sister Annamae kept a watchful eye on her future alma mater. She lived directly down the street from St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Cleveland, and could see a section of NDA from her front porch. She entered the order during her senior year.

Sister Elizabeth Marie, better known as Sister Betty, attended Our Lady of Good Counsel grade school in www.sndchardon.org

Cleveland, and high school at Notre Dame Academy. Sister was drawn to her retreat masters who told her class that they should not put things off. In February of her senior year, she became a postulant at the Academy. She entered the order through St. Leo Parish, Cleveland.

After her studies and graduation from St. John’s College, Sister taught second grade. “I was scared to death, but I had good teachers at college and loved preparing the children for First Communion,” she says.

Sister spent the first 30 years of her ministry teaching primary grades.

She taught in Virginia and at several Ohio schools, including St. Michael and St. Boniface, Cleveland; SS. Cyril and Methodius, Warren; Holy Trinity, Avon; and St. Justin, Eastlake. In 1988, Sister served as coordinator of services for students with special learning needs at St. Joseph School, Amherst, OH. She was a tutor at Our Lady of Lourdes, Raleigh, NC, and Metro Catholic School, Cleveland.

For eight years, Sister was an SND Legacy Project tutor and a volunteer for the Diocesan Refugee & Migration Office, Cleveland. At the Provincial Center, Chardon, Sister Elizabeth Marie served as a computer literacy assistant and mission awareness assistant. She is now devoted to ministering to the homebound and prayer, presence and praise. Sister Betty

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

says her personal philosophy is to do whatever God wants her to do, a simple mantra that continues to serve her well.

GOLDEN JUBILEE 50 Years SISTER MARY ANNETTE THERESE AMENDOLIA

served in pastoral ministry. She was director of religious education at SS. Cyril & Methodius, Cleveland, and pastoral associate at St. Stephen of Hungary, Youngstown.

Sister resides at the St. Francis de Sales community in Parma, OH, where she is liturgical/spiritual life director. In addition to starting a youth music group, Sister oversees the children’s choir and an instrumental group. To help create community at St. Francis de Sales, Sister and her team hold special events, including a Holy Thursday Fellowship Meal. A favorite event among parishioners, the meal is becoming a Lenten tradition.

“We share a meal, then go up to church to share in the great meal of the Eucharist,” she says. “God is good!”

Sister Annette has fond childhood memories of her religious education, lessons that would influence the rest of her life.

SISTER MARY THOMAS DACEK

“I remember my teachers in grade school who talked about God being good–I never feared God,” she says.

“When I thought about becoming a Sister, giving my life to God, I always remembered the goodness shared by my grade-school teachers.”

After entering the SND community through St. Agnes Church, Arlington, VA, Sister taught primary grades and junior high at several schools, including St. Joan of Arc, Chagrin Falls, OH; St. Ann, Arlington, VA; Notre Dame Elementary, Chardon; and St. Vitus, Cleveland, where she also

Sister Mary Thomas was a lay teacher in two Diocesan elementary schools before she entered the order through her parish, St. Boniface, Cleveland.

“I felt that God was calling me to do more for Him,” she says of her vocation.

Summer 2016

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Her first ministry assignment was at Notre Dame Elementary School, Chardon, where she taught grades four and seven. Over the next several years, she taught eighth grade at the following Ohio schools: St. Michael, Independence; St. Thomas, Sheffield Lake; St. Paschal Baylon, Highland Heights; and St. Vitus, Cleveland.

At St. Mary School and Parish, Avon, OH, she taught eighth grade and was local coordinator; since 1999, she has served as religious education coordinator there.

“A scripture text that has inspired me is ‘My grace is enough for you’ (2 Corinthians 12:9),” she shares.

“This text provides a daily assurance of God’s goodness to me.”

SISTER MARY CAROLE GEIGER (formerly Sister Marleene)

Sister Mary Carole attended St. Peter High School, Cleveland, where she was taught by the SNDs. She felt called to a life of service, with a special call to work with children.

She was inspired by the dedication and joyful spirit she saw in the Sisters who taught her, and by the faith and stewardship of her parents.

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“I believe there was a certain simplicity in our home life, and I found this spirit in the Sisters of Notre Dame,” says Sister Mary Carole.

Sister began her life of active ministry as a primary-grade classroom teacher in several Ohio schools, including St. Joseph, Amherst; St. Vitus, Cleveland; and St. Mary, Massillon. She taught children with special needs at Julie Billiart School, Lyndhurst, and later served as director of the Notre Dame Skills Lab, Chardon. Now a Learning Center resource teacher at Cleveland’s Metro Catholic School, Sister says she could not accomplish anything on her own.

“My life had to be grounded in prayer, and my reliance on our Good God,” she says. “When there were projects to be accomplished, so often the success of these depended upon everyone involved, sharing their gifts and doing it for the greater good.

“I often reflect on the scripture quote, ‘Unless the Lord build the house, they labor in vain who build it.’ Without this and the support of my Sisters, all I undertake is meaningless. For these 50 years of religious life, I can say, ‘Oh how good is the Good God.’”

SISTER MARY CAROL MAREK (formerly Sister Mary Cylene)

As a young girl, Sister Mary Carol felt drawn to religious life and to the service of the Church, specifically the area of Catholic education. She was drawn to the Sisters of Notre Dame because she noticed they were always happy, they cared for one another and the children under their care, and they were very prayerful.

After graduating from Notre Dame Academy, Sister entered the SND community through St. Boniface Church, Cleveland. For 20 years, she taught grades four, seven and eight within the Cleveland Diocese at Notre Dame Elementary School, Chardon; St. Peter, North Ridgeville; St. Michael, Independence; St. Boniface; and others. She was principal of Holy Trinity, Avon, and St. Michael, Independence. For four years, Sister was principal of Notre Dame Elementary, where she now serves as religious formation coordinator.

“There are two life lessons that I tend to be drawn to and embrace,” www.sndchardon.org

says Sister Mary Carol. “The first is from Scripture: ‘I am with you always.’ This reminds me of St. Julie’s quote, ‘God will provide.’

The second is ‘Life can make you bitter or better.’ This reminds me of the quote from Deuteronomy, ‘Choose between life and death.’

Ultimately, the choice is mine as how the day goes and how my view of life will be. It reminds me, too, that I may not be able to control a situation, but I can control my response and attitude toward it.”

SISTER MARY ANTONEE PFENNING

Dame Academy, Middleburg, VA. At Notre Dame Academy, Chardon, she was a teacher and bursar; for 16 years, she served in the Provincial Center Community Office.

Currently, Sister is the business manager of both Notre DameCathedral Latin and Notre Dame Elementary Schools, Chardon.

Sister Mary Antonee cites the following quotation that often guides her daily choices: “I expect to pass through life but once. If, therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again.”

Also, she is inspired by the words, “Lord, give me the ambition to do as much as I can, as well as I can, as long as I can, and the resolve not to despair over the things I cannot do.”

SISTER JANET MARY SCHEMMEL (formerly Sister Mary Raphaelle) According to Sister Mary Antonee, the desire to follow God’s call and do His will along with the love, joy, and example of her SND teachers at St. Stephen High School, Cleveland, were the motivating factors that impelled her to join the Sisters of Notre Dame. She entered the community from Blessed Sacrament Parish, Cleveland.

Over the past five decades, Sister taught high school at Regina High, South Euclid, OH, and Notre Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

teacher, Sister Mary Herbert, to attend NDA as an aspirant, led Sister Janet Mary to the SND community.

She entered through Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish, South Amherst, OH. Within the Cleveland Diocese, Sister taught at St. Peter, Regina, Notre Dame Academy, and Elyria Catholic high schools. For 12 years, she taught at Notre Dame Academy, Middleburg, VA. She served as academic dean and teacher at Cardinal Gibbons High School, Raleigh, NC. Today, Sister is the music minister of Holy Cross Parish (Durham) and vice-chair of the Council of Religious for the Diocese of Raleigh, NC. “Having grown up on the family farm and camped all across the United States, nature has always attracted me to our creator God,” Sister Janet Mary says. “Spending most of my life as a science teacher, the following lines of William Blake have sparked my mission of living and teaching ‘How good is our good God.’” To see a World in a Grain of Sand And a Heaven in a Wild Flower, Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand And Eternity in an hour.

The example and encouragement of her father, coupled with an invitation from her eighth grade Summer 2016

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SISTER MARY KAREN SOMERVILLE

SISTER MARY BETH ANNE TERCEK

(formerly Sister Mary Raymond)

Sister Karen entered the SND community through Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Cleveland.

“I was inspired to enter Notre Dame by the love, joy and dedication of the Sisters who taught me at St. Stephen High School, OH,” she says.

Sister taught primary grades at several Cleveland Diocese schools, including St. Anselm, Chesterland; St. Francis of Assisi, Gates Mills (principal); St. Paschal Baylon, Highland Heights; and St. Gregory, Cleveland. She spent three years in Wilson, NC, where she taught at St. Therese School. After returning to Ohio, Sister Karen went on to become principal at St. Francis of Assisi; St. Helen, Newbury; and St. Francis, Cleveland. Sister is currently St. Francis’ local coordinator and Cleveland Scholarship Program director.

“I am very grateful to God for the call to religious life and have learned by living this life that God, in his goodness and provident care, will always sustain in me this call,” she says. “God is good, all the time.”

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From early childhood, Sister Beth Anne knew that God was calling her to serve Him as a religious Sister. By junior high, she had become familiar with several different congregations, but none felt right for her.

“When I walked into Regina High School for the eighth graders’ open house and saw my first Sister of Notre Dame, I knew immediately that this was the congregation I would enter,” Sister recalls.

She started high school at Regina and finished at Notre Dame Academy, Chardon. She joined the aspirants in her junior year and entered the order through her home parish, St. Christine, Euclid.

Sister began her teaching ministry at St. Anselm, Chesterland, and St. Michael, Independence, OH. She moved into higher education and was an instructor and assistant professor of history and political science at Notre Dame College.

Sister transitioned into economics, earning her doctorate from Boston College. In 1990, she returned to Notre Dame College and as

an associate professor, and later, professor. Since 2000, Sister Beth Anne has been the Provincial Center Finance Office finance manager.

During this time, she spent 12 years as a Notre Dame College trustee.

“I have tried always to follow the example of Mary, Our Lady, Notre Dame, who at the Annunciation responded to God’s messenger, the angel Gabriel, with the words, ‘Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word,’” she says. “Embrace wholeheartedly and completely whatever God sends your way. It will not always be easy, or even seem possible, but ‘go for it’ and you will experience great joy and happiness.”

SISTER MARY BRENDON ZAJAC

Sister Mary Brendon credits her first grade teacher for leading her to her future vocation.

“Sister Mary Patricia Gannon, SND, my first grade teacher, inspired me with a love for teaching,” she says. “I loved to work with the Sisters after school. ... They taught me a love for teaching and a love for serving the Church.” www.sndchardon.org

Sister joined the SND community through St. Jude Parish, Elyria, OH. She taught junior high within the Cleveland Diocese before becoming principal of Notre Dame Elementary, Chardon, and Gesu, University Heights. She served the Youngstown Diocese as assistant superintendent of curriculum and executive director of the Department of Pastoral and Educational Services. She was a trustee at Notre Dame College, where she continues as trustee emerita. At the Provincial Center, Sister was head of international technology projects. Between 2009 and 2015, she ministered at Catholic Distance University, Hamilton, VA, as theology instructor and board member. Currently, Sister is a tutor at Borromeo seminary and registrar, assistant academic dean, and professor of pastoral theology at St. Mary Seminary & Graduate School of Theology, Wickliffe, OH. She is a board member of Catholic Distance University, Charles Town, WV. Sister Mary Brendon remains inspired by the words of Pope Saint John Paul II: “Love for Jesus and His Church must be the passion of our lives.”

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

RUBY JUBILEE 40 Years SISTER MARY ELLEN BEEBE (formerly Sister Mary St. Augustine)

member at Cuvilly House, Cleveland, and was part of the discernment and music ministries at the Provincial Center. For the past four years, Sister has taught music at St. Benedict School, Garfield Heights, OH. A quotation that continues to inspire her comes from her former patron, St. Augustine: “You have made us for Yourself, O God, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.”

SISTER MARY BERIGAN (formerly Sister Marie Timothy) After graduating from eighth grade at St. Mary, Mentor, Sister Ellen attended Notre Dame Academy, Chardon, and was immediately impressed by the SNDs who brought joy and enthusiasm to the classroom.

“St. Julie had just been canonized the previous summer, and each Sister shared Julie’s life and spirit with us,” she recalls. “By my junior year, I was hearing a call to religious life and entered the novitiate the summer after I graduated.”

Sister joined the SND community through her home parish, St. Mary of the Assumption, Mentor, OH. She taught grades five and eight at Notre Dame Elementary, Chardon; St. Michael, Independence; St. Joseph, Amherst; and schools in Virginia and Florida. At St. Columbkille School and Parish, Parma, OH, Sister Ellen was both a music and religion instructor and served in parish music ministry. She was a vocation team member and adult ministry team

Sister Mary’s call to join the SND community stemmed from a conversation she had with one of her high school teachers, who challenged her to enter, even if she was unsure.

“I agreed to try for six months—that agreement has turned into a lifetime commitment,” Sister says of her entrance through St. Justin Martyr, Eastlake, OH. “As I came to more fully experience God’s goodness and grace, I was led to truly accept the gift of being a religious woman.”

Sister began her vocation in Virginia before returning to Ohio to teach middle school and junior high at St. Boniface, St. Joseph and Our Lady of Summer 2016

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Lourdes, all in Cleveland. She served as principal of St. Thomas, Sheffield Lake, OH, and St. Jude, Elyria. At St. Agnes, Elyria, OH, Sister was the director of religious education and ministered in the RCIA program.

Today, Sister Mary is the executive director of Blessing House, Lorain, a position she has held since 2003.

On Catechetical Sunday during her first year of teaching, she and fellow faculty were commissioned with pins that bore the Gospel quote: “I have come that you may have life.”

“Over the years, I have reflected on that quote in light of the many people who were touched by the life of Jesus,” she says. “To be a life giver to those I meet in my personal life or in ministry has been an effort to which I try to stay true. In my interactions with others, I often ask myself, ‘What can I do that will give or enhance life for this person?’ The response may be in terms of prayerful support or a helping hand.”

SISTER MARIE JULIE BRUSS

When she realized that God was calling her to religious life, Sister Marie Julie’s experience with the 28

SNDs as a student at Notre Dame Academy attracted her to their order. She entered through St. Mary Magdalene Parish, Willowick, OH. Sister’s teaching ministry began at Notre Dame Academy, Chardon, and Elyria Catholic High School. In 1982, she transitioned into guidance counseling, first at Regina High School, South Euclid, then Cardinal Mooney High School, Sarasota, FL. For the next 15 years, Sister’s vocation led her away from high school settings. She was director of counseling and career development at Notre Dame College, South Euclid, OH, and outpatient therapist, drug and alcohol program coordinator, and director of substance abuse treatment and prevention services at Ravenwood Mental Health Center, Chardon. In 2010, Sister Marie Julie was dean of students at Cleveland Central Catholic High School.

Her current ministry assignment is that of operations manager for the Conrad N. Hilton Fund for Sisters, Agoura Hills, CA. Sister, who makes her home in the Provincial Center community, Thousand Oaks, CA, looks to the book of Genesis for daily guidance: “On the mountain, God will provide.”

“This Scripture has been powerful in my life, as I have learned many times over that it is God who provides what I need in whatever situation I find myself, and that He does not fail,” she says. “As Sisters of Notre Dame, we claim the charism of God’s goodness and His provident care.”

SISTER MAUREEN BURKE (formerly Sister Mary Sean Patrick)

As a student at Regina High School, Sister Maureen witnessed a spirit of joy within her educators.

“I felt called to be a teacher, and the Sisters of Notre Dame had a legacy of being educators,” she says. “My family imbued within me a feeling of being blessed, and I wanted to share that blessing with others.”

After joining the community through Christ the King Parish, East Cleveland, Sister taught at Elyria Catholic High School before becoming a teacher, assistant principal and principal at Regina High School, South Euclid.

Sister resides at the St. Gabriel residence and, since 2012, has been president of St. John School, Ashtabula, OH. “The life lesson that I try to embrace is reflected in scripture: ‘I have come that you may have life and have it to the full,’” says Sister Maureen. “I want to live life to its fullness and help others find the fullness of life through their relationships with God and one another.

Education is a life-giving force, and as a teacher, I want to be a life-giving force for good. I have been graced with the presence of family, Sisters, colleagues, www.sndchardon.org

and friends who have shared life with me and have been the cause of life-giving moments. I hope to be the same for others.”

SISTER MARYANN CIRINO (formerly Sister Vincenta Marie)

The gentleness of her SND teachers drew Sister Maryann to the order, but a tragic accident moved her even closer to her vocation.

“When I was seven years old, my mother fell out of a window,” Sister explains. “She had been washing windows on the second floor of the house. I found her on the concrete.

I went to the Blessed Mother and begged her to let my mother live, and then I would become a nun.

That was my first promise to the Blessed Mother—Notre Dame, Our Lady. That’s why I wanted to be an SND.” Sister Maryann’s mother survived the fall and lived for 19 years, long enough to see her daughter graduate from high school and join the SND community through Holy Redeemer Church, Collinwood, OH. The name Sister chose, Sister Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

Vincenta Marie, honors her earthly mother, Vincenza.

Kathleen Mary met the Sisters of Notre Dame for the first time.

Sister’s ministry of food service led her to several assignments in northeast Ohio, including Regina High School, the Provincial House, Chardon, and St. Stephen, Cleveland. When not serving others at St. Columbkille Parish, Sister Maryann volunteers at Parma Hospital, where she distributes the Holy Eucharist. A resident of Parma, Sister loves to be busy. She visits the homebound of St. Anthony Parish and is the local coordinator of St. Michael’s faith-sharing group in Independence, OH. The scripture that Sister likes most: “Be still and know that I am God.”

“They were wonderful teachers, fun to be with and very caring,” she recalls.

“When I felt God was calling me to religious life, I didn’t have to think twice about the ‘where.’”

“Being religious is no different than any other walk of life when it comes to bad times,” she says. “We have to put our faith in God to get through things. Without Him, we are nothing.”

SISTER KATHLEEN MARY HINE (formerly Sister Mariarose)

After entering through Christ the King Parish, East Cleveland, Sister Kathleen taught grade four at St. Justin, Eastlake, OH, and grade five at Notre Dame Elementary School, Chardon. She spent five years at St. Leo, Fairfax, VA, where she taught and served as guidance counselor.

In 1993, Sister returned to Ohio to become assistant principal at St. Mary School, Massillon; she was part of the administrative team, assistant principal, and coordinator of student and family services at Metro Catholic Parish School, Cleveland. In 2002, Sister Kathleen was named vocation director of the Chardon Province.

She became director of pre-novitiate and, later, served in the young adult ministry. At Cuvilly House in Cleveland, Sister is currently both young adult ministry team director and local coordinator.

“I am in awe at what God has done with my life, and so I pray for the grace to trust that God will always be with me,” she says.

As a student at Regina High School, South Euclid, Sister Summer 2016

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IN MEMORIAM

SISTER MARY CARON (Catherine Elizabeth KEHNER) passed away on April 7, 2016 at the SND Health Care Center, Chardon, OH. She was born on October 14, 1927 in Randolph, OH. Sister Mary Caron made her Profession on August 16, 1948 in Cleveland, OH. Catherine Elizabeth was the fifth of seven children born to Harry and Gertrude (Englehart) Kehner. She grew up in the rural community of Randolph, treasuring her parents and siblings. Strong, lasting bonds were nurtured throughout the life she enjoyed and cherished that included visits, activities and celebrations with her large, extended family.

In response to a question from a Sister when she was in the

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sixth grade, Catherine began to consider a vocation to religious life. She became eager to complete elementary grades at St. Joseph School, Randolph, so she could attend Notre Dame Academy, Cleveland, as an aspirant. Catherine entered the novitiate of the Sisters of Notre Dame on February 2, 1946, and at investment received the name Sister Mary Caron.

In 1992 when Sister retired from active ministry in education, she never stopped finding ways of loving and serving others, especially in the province Development (Advancement) Office. Her gift for making life-long friendships and her careful way of working and organizing were useful gifts in the areas of donor information and record-keeping.

Sister Mary Caron earned a bachelor’s degree from St. John College, Cleveland, and a master’s degree from (Case) Western Reserve University, Cleveland.

She ministered as a teacher and/or principal for 42 years in elementary schools in Ohio and Virginia. For many years, Sister Mary Caron assumed the responsibility of principal, teacher and local superior simultaneously. She was among the first group of Sisters at the opening of St. Michael School, Canton; Immaculate Heart of Mary School, Austintown; and St. Peter School, Lorain. Sister Mary Caron was a gentle but strong educational leader.

She was a good listener, dedicated, organized and efficient. She ministered with an understanding and sympathetic heart.

Above all, Sister Mary Caron was a woman of prayer. Becoming closer to Jesus was the deepest desire of her heart. After just a few days of illness, Sister went home to God unexpectedly. She lived in the trust that, “There is a faithful, neverchanging God in control. Every day begins and ends with God’s purpose.” May Sister Mary Caron rejoice in the presence of our good and loving God for all eternity.

www.sndchardon.org

Please remember in your prayers the following Sisters of Notre Dame who have recently passed away.

SISTER MARY CATHERINE (formerly Sister Mary Clement Marie) (Catherine BRAZIS) passed away on April 23, 2016 at the SND Health Care Center, Chardon, OH. She was born on March 22, 1937 in Cleveland, OH. Sister Mary Catherine made her profession on August 16, 1957 in Cleveland, OH. Catherine was the middle sister of the three girls born to Clement and Mary (nee Missus) Brazis. The girls were close in heart as well as in age, always enjoying each other’s company whether they were playing, praying or studying together. The family bonds and Catherine’s love for reading and walking and the constant source of beauty she found in nature remained throughout her life.

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

After graduating from St. George Elementary School, Cleveland, Catherine enrolled at Notre Dame Academy, Cleveland. Her mother had been taught by the Sisters of Notre Dame so Catherine knew the Sisters would give her the best education. It was during her high school years that she responded to the grace of a religious vocation.

While grateful for this privileged call, she wrote, “My greatest heartache will be leaving my family who has been very close to me.” She entered the novitiate of the Sisters of Notre Dame on February 2, 1955, and at investment received the name Sister Mary Clement Marie. She later returned to her baptismal name, Sister Mary Catherine.

Sister earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in education from St. John College, Cleveland.

She ministered as a teacher in elementary schools in Ohio, Virginia and Florida for 37 years.

When Sister Mary Catherine retired from active classroom ministry in 1996, she served the Provincial Center community and continued to develop a “spirituality of usefulness” in her approach to the ministry of service.

Assisting at the switchboard, in the printery and in the archives were among her early assignments.

She welcomed the opportunity to help others, often working behind the scenes in her quiet, efficient way. Sister assisted in the Medical Benefits Office as an assistant for 13 years and then as a support staff member. In community, one could be sure of her welcoming smile and many hidden acts of kindness. Her desire to be useful and contribute were expressions not only of her natural inclination but of God’s grace working in her and through her.

Sister Mary Catherine loved to walk outside to enjoy the beauty of creation in every season—an expression of the simplicity of God’s love. To her family, her sisters and co-workers she gave witness to a life devoted to fulfilling God’s plan and the reward of work well done. As her physical strength diminished, her trademark smile remained. May Sister now rest in peace and joy in the presence of our good and gracious God.

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2016 Legacy Scholarship Winner

Regina Alumnae Dates for 2016-2017

Congratulations to Madison Mucci, our 2016 Legacy Scholarship winner! Madison is a freshman at Villa Angela-St. Joseph. She is active in school activities and service projects, a member of the freshman volleyball team, volunteers in service activities in her neighborhood and maintains a 4.0 GPA. Madison is the daughter of Nicole DeCaro Mucci’88 and the niece of Ann Marie Mucci Poston’84, Margaret Mucci McKeon’85 and Danielle DeCaro Robinson’85.

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT Good time for the 6 and 8 reunion years to get together.

October 21, 2016 | 7 to ?

Cost: $20.00 includes food, soft drinks, tax and gratuity. Cash Bar. Reservations are due October 4.

Reunions

EMAIL NEWSLETTER We are starting to send out a monthly RHS Alum Email Newsletter. If you are not receiving emails from us now and would like to receive class and alumnae news, please contact the alumnae office at rhsalum@reginahigh.com.

Class of `66 Reunion At this time there are no plans ready for the 50th reunion. If you have any questions or suggestions, please contact Sister Donna Paluf at dpaluf@dec.org.

Class of `76 Reunion The 40th reunion will take place on Saturday, August 6th 6 - 11 pm at the Aberdeen Community Center, 1 Club Drive, Highland Heights, OH. Reservations are due by June 30. Make checks out to Joan Andersen and send to: 700 Pebblebrook Dr. Willoughby Hills, OH 44094.

For questions, email jandersen@icloud.com.

Class of `86 Reunion The ‘86 Reunion will be on Friday, August 5th 7 - 12 pm Nighttown, 12387 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, OH 44106.

We will again be having heavy hors d’oeuvres and a dessert table, soft drinks and coffee or tea and 1 drink ticket. There will be a cash bar.

Advanced tickets are $45 until July 31st, $50 after August 1st. Send in your money early. You can pay via paypal “friends and family” to jmurphytorres@gmail.com or mail a check to Jennifer Murphy, 22017 Halburton Road, Beachwood, OH 44122.

Please include your current contact information (email address, home address and phone number) so we can keep you informed and we can include you in the directory we will be providing everyone.

EMAIL AND ADDRESSES Please keep us up to date when you change your email and/or home addresses.

We would like to keep in touch with all of you.

RETREAT 2015 Last February, 15 women enjoyed a weekend retreat with our facilitator Sister Melannie Svoboda. “Loved the retreatSister Melannie was wonderful” and “Just enough time for prayer, great activities and sharing” were some of the comments of those who attended.

Next year’s retreat is February 10-12.

More information will follow in the fall.

On Sunday, August 7th we will have a Mass at Regina Chapel at 10 am.

Coffee and pastry will be served afterwards. Please let Jennifer know if you will attend the Mass.

Cross-Country Reunion The Annual Cross-Country Reunion will take place on Saturday, November 26 at 11 a.m. in Euclid Creek Park. More details will follow.

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www.sndchardon.org

A piece of heaven!

Sunday, September 18 & 25 12 Noon - 5 PM

Tickets available at the door Chicken $12 Ribs $15 Takeout available!

Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin Gymnasium on the Notre Dame Education Center Campus 13000 Auburn Road, Chardon, OH South of Mayfield Road Handicapped Accessible

Sisters of Notre Dame | Network

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Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage

Sisters of Notre Dame Chardon Province

PAID

13000 Auburn Road Chardon, OH 44024 www.sndchardon.org

Cleveland, OH Permit No. 362

HELP DISCOURAGE WASTE: If you received duplicate mailings, want to be removed from our mailing list or want to change an address, call (440) 279-1178. printed on recycled paper

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