Issuu

Sisters of Notre Dame of the United States

SND USA WINTER 2021

The Heart of Parish Ministry

ALSO INSIDE: Opening SND USA-Sponsored Schools Amid COVID-19 Opening SND-Sponsored Schools Worldwide During Pandemic Nourishing Our Sense of Wonder

SND USA

Sisters of Notre Dame of the United States

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 A Letter from the SND USA Provincial Team 2-7 The Heart of Parish Ministry

8-13 Opening SND USA-Sponsored Schools Amid COVID-19 14-15 Opening SND-Sponsored Schools Worldwide During the Pandemic

16-17 Nourishing Our Sense of Wonder

18 Consider Participating in an Upcoming SND USA Spiritual Retreat

19 CARES Act Incentives Extended

20-21 Spotlight on SND USA Associate Kevin McNamara

l-r: Sister Rebekah Kennedy, Thousand Oaks, CA; Sister Shauna Bankemper, Covington, KY; Sister Regina Fisher, Toledo, OH; Sister Margaret Gorman, Chardon, OH; Sister Patricia Garrahan, Chardon, OH

LETTER FROM SND USA PROVINCIAL TEAM Dear Friends, As we begin 2021, our prayers continue for the many individuals and families impacted by the coronavirus. May our loving God bring healing, and may our world celebrate together as an effective vaccine becomes available to all. This issue of SND USA magazine features Sisters of Notre Dame serving in parish ministries throughout the country. Ever since our eight pioneer Sisters of Notre Dame arrived in the United States in 1874, SNDs have served in parishes â€“ initially teaching in parish schools and gradually moving into ministries that serve the adults of the parish as well as the children. Responding to new needs, parish ministers serve the marginalized within their neighborhoods and communities, and use opportunities to expand their outreach nationally. Sisters engaged in parish ministry often stay out of the limelight, serving for decades behind the scenes but integral to the life of the parish community. They are engaged in teaching, catechetical instruction, sacramental preparation, and more. They support parish programs at homeless shelters or food pantries, and direct retreats and activities for various groups. We are pleased to shine a light on their faithful work. In addition, this issue reports on how SND USA-sponsored schools opened amid the coronavirus pandemic and continue to offer an excellent Catholic education, prioritizing in-person learning wherever possible. At the time of this publicationâ€™s printing, SND USA-sponsored school administrators have been successful in protecting the health and safety of faculty and students despite the national surges in COVID-19 cases. Their creativity and hard work are a testimony to their commitment to each individual student. We thank you for your continued support of our congregation, and pray that 2021 will be a year of renewal, health and joy for you and your loved ones. Gratefully, The SND USA Provincial Team

Winter 2021

The Heart of Parish Ministry

Sisters of Notre Dame USA | www.sndusa.org

In all ways, as we move forward together with Jesus Christ, let us connect faith with life. Immaculate Conception Parish Vision Statement Port Clinton, Ohio

Sister Joyanne Sullivan, St. Dominic Parish, Eagle Rock, California

hether in poor, urban settings; affluent, suburban

neighborhoods; or Hispanic communities with predominantly Spanish-speaking congregations, Catholic churches have long been anchors in their communities. Sisters of Notre Dame have played a vital role in parishes across the country, at first in addition to their teaching duties at the school and often today as full-time parish ministers. Working with people of all ages and backgrounds is experienced as a blessing. continued on page 4

Winter 2021

The

Heart of Parish Ministry

continued from page 3

Perhaps Sister Marilyn Ann Angel, SND, Faith Formation Director at Immaculate Conception Parish in Port Clinton, Ohio, describes parish ministry best: “It is a sacred privilege. As I go about my ministry from day to day, I am reminded that I don’t walk alone. I walk with Jesus Christ, my companions on staff, and the adults and children of the parish where I serve.” “I had the joy of walking with 37 RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) inquirers and their sponsors who have joined our Catholic community throughout the years,” Sister Marilyn Ann replies with a smile. “Our Ave Maria Study Club focuses on enhancing the spirituality of women, and I serve as their spiritual director. Another group of active women in our parish is Altar Rosary Society of which I am moderator. This group keeps members abreast of many issues: peace and justice, women’s issues, human trafficking, battered women, etc. She continues, “I also direct our Parish Religious Education Program which includes mentoring catechists. Our program consists of children in grades 1-6 and Year 1 and Year 2 Confirmation

Port Clinton, Ohio

Sisters of Notre Dame USA | www.sndusa.org

candidates. I also conduct First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation meetings with the parents, and lead the sacramental retreats. It is a true joy to plan all the sacramental celebrations. For our Confirmation candidates, I invite young adults from the Culture Project (dedicated to addressing critical human rights issues by creating and supporting artistic work that amplifies marginalized voices) who provide presentations on Human Dignity, Sexual Integrity and Social Media. I also work with volunteers to organize and implement our Children’s Liturgy of the Word program, proclaiming the gospel to God’s little ones each Sunday. “Immaculate Conception’s parish ministry has grown over the years and currently includes 55 active ministries of volunteers who move together with Jesus Christ to connect faith with life,” she exclaims. “The most recent ministry is a Social Concern Ministry which focuses on issues of capital punishment, drug overdoses, natural disaster relief, and other current social issues. The greatest need within parishes today is connecting people who have faith with those who have no faith.”

Across the country, Sister Teresita Keliher, SND, works at St. Philip Parish in Pasadena, California. She states, “I am presently ministering in a multicultural parish, which provides many opportunities to learn and grow in my own faith. We have so much to learn from one another. Harnessing the power of working together, we live out Christ’s commandment to love and care for one another in the Church we are building today – not only for ourselves but for future generations.”

Sister Elaine Winter, SND, has served at The Community of the Good Shepherd Parish in Cincinnati, Ohio, for 10 years. Her main responsibility as Director of Faith Formation is working with the Preschool Coordinator, Youth Minister (who coordinates grades 7-12), College Minister, and Adult Coordinator.” “Our parish has more than 4,000 families living in a suburban area north of Cincinnati. Most of the adults

“ This group keeps members abreast of many issues: peace and justice, women’s issues, human trafficking, battered women, etc.” - Sister Marilyn Ann Angel, SND, Faith Formation Director at Immaculate Conception Parish, Port Clinton, Ohio

For the past 40 years, Sister Teresita has worked in parish ministry in a variety of ways. “One thing I have learned is to be adaptable. Most of my ministry has been in religious education, preparing programs for children of all ages and working with teachers and parents and instructing them on their faith journeys,” she describes. “Working in parish life has opened up many new areas of interest: ministering to the sick and elderly, preparing and assisting at liturgies, working with new parents to prepare for their child’s Baptism, and preparing lectors and Eucharistic ministers. Probably the most important aspect of parish ministry is simply being there every day to offer support and encouragement.”

have a college education, and many work at Procter and Gamble and are transient. We have a variety of cultures and countries represented.”

Sister Michelyn Beckerich, SND, has been active in parish ministry at Holy Spirit Parish in Newport, Kentucky, for nine years. She finds working with elderly individuals within her parish particularly rewarding. “I visit the sick at their homes or in nursing homes. They are so happy to see me. It has been difficult continuing this ministry during the pandemic,” Sister Michelyn admits. In addition to pastoral care, she reads at Mass, is a member of the choir, and greets people before Mass. “There are many ministries beside these: Altar Society, Foresters, and helping families plan funeral arrangements. Holy Spirit Parish has a garden to raise vegetables for those who are hungry, in addition to our monthly collections.”

She adds, “The greatest challenge is trying to connect with people, help people feel welcome, and invite them to participate in parish life. Our parish council is called ‘The Assembly of Leaders’ (AOL) and includes 72 people. We meet quarterly and break out into four groups – Liturgy, Pastoral Care and Outreach, Education and Faith Formation, and Stewardship. People offer suggestions as to what our parish needs to work on in each of these areas in keeping with our parish mission and vision. AOL members vote to choose the three top priorities which become the goals for the next year.”

Additional ministries within Good Shepherd Parish include Sanctity of Life Ministry, homelessness services in Greater Cincinnati, 55+ Ministry, Wellness Ministries, Bereavement Ministry, and Caring Hands Home Assistance, to name a few. “We have a huge outreach program. One of our outreach programs is Shepherd’s Share. At each of our four church entrances we have blue bins for Shepherd’s Share. The items are taken to St. Francis Ministries located in downtown Cincinnati,” Sister Elaine states.

“For me, parish ministry is engaging with people right where they are!” says Sister Jolisa Lazaro, SND. continued on page 6 Winter 2021

The

Heart of Parish Ministry

continued from page 5

“Parish ministry is the stomping ground, where the people of God come together to celebrate the Sacraments, break bread in Eucharist, pray in humble adoration, grow in deeper faith, and volunteer service to individuals who are poor. Parish Ministry is where one experiences the ebb and flow of life.” Sister Jolisa ministered at St. Anthony Parish in downtown Long Beach, California for eight years. “At this very multicultural, welcoming and vibrant parish, I organized the Renew Program along with the lay ministry leaders. The Renew Program is where Catholics come together to pray and reflect on the Scriptures. There is a need for smaller supportive communities within the parish where faith can be shared and strengthened,” Sister Jolisa states. “After the three-year program, we celebrated the 100th anniversary of this parish. Many small groups continued to gather to have weekly Bible studies.” Sister Jolisa was also the Director for Liturgy and the Spanish RCIA, encouraging lay leadership

At St. Lucy’s, Sister Jolisa serves as Assistant Director for Religious Education, Confirmation Team member, resource teacher for the catechists, and Parish Liaison Coordinator for the Missionary Discipleship Pathway Program. The Missionary Discipleship Pathway Program is a series of evangelizing experiences offered to any adults who are curious about or seeking to explore and deepen their relationship with Jesus. The dynamic sister’s ultimate objective as a parish minister at St. Lucy, as at St. Anthony Parish, is simple: “I want to be an example of what it truly means to be a servant leader and always try to follow one of my favorite quotes: ‘You have been told what is good, and what the Lord requires of you…act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with your God.’” (Micah 6:8) Sister Marilyn Zgonc, SND, is in her seventh year in parish ministry at St. Ladislas Church in Westlake, Ohio. Previously, she was involved for seven years in parish ministry at St. Mary Parish in Elyria, Ohio.

“ One would not know the people are impoverished because of the genuine, joy-filled spirit and kindness parishioners show.” - Sister Jolisa Lazaro, SND, St. Lucy Parish, Long Beach, California

through training and workshops. “Strengthening their confidence in their specific ministry was always my goal so that, eventually, the light of Christ’s love continues to shine for all who step on the parish grounds at St. Anthony, known as the Mother Church of Long Beach.” Sister Jolisa now works at St. Lucy Parish, located on the west side of Long Beach. Another multicultural and welcoming parish, Sister says the only difference is that the parishioners are economically poor. “One would not know the people are impoverished because of the genuine, joy-filled spirit and kindness parishioners show,” Sister Jolisa describes. “They are so grateful for everything they have – family, food, faith, Mass and adoration outdoors along with time to volunteer and help others.”

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“At both parishes, I was blessed to minister to the senior population since they hold a special place in my heart,” she says. Sister Marilyn continues, “Before this pandemic, I was so grateful to bring the Eucharist to our homebound parishioners, which I’m still doing on a more limited schedule. Since we are unable to visit nursing facilities now, I look forward to the time when I’ll be able to conduct Liturgy of the Word services in these facilities and share the Holy Eucharist with them.” St. Ladislas Parish, comprised of approximately 1,500 parishioners, is extremely involved in social justice issues. “Our Hunger Center prepares nutritional, wholesome meals at St. Patrick’s Church and St. Ignatius of Antioch Church, both located in Cleveland, Ohio. Our parish also distributes about $800,000 each year, donated from grocery and other stores.”

“One of the greatest needs within parishes today is evangelization,” Sister Marilyn thoughtfully reflects. “To quote Bishop Robert Barron, ‘There are far more ex-Catholics than Catholics in the U.S.A., and the fastest growing category of religious affiliation is none.’ St. Ladislas is blessed with a dynamic Evangelization Committee which meets monthly to reach out to the unbaptized and those seeking Confirmation.”

Religion Program (Parents give direct instruction at home to their children.); Vacation Bible Camp; and Parish Service Day.

Sister Judy Bucco, SND, has served as Director of Religious Education at St. Joan of Arc (SJA) Parish in Chagrin Falls, Ohio since 2004. “The greatest need at SJA is Adult Faith Formation and involvement in faith activities for families,” she says. “I involve 16-18 parents as Confirmation Team Leaders each year for our instructional Parish Confirmation Sessions; several others in our Vacation Bible Camp; and additional volunteers for Jesus Day preparations and as Jesus Day Group Leaders. This is a small way to involve adults and children together, but I think an effective one.”

“I love being the administrator of our PSR Program and working with Catechists and our children!” she exclaims. “When I observe classrooms, I find how much our children express a desire to continue to grow in their relationship with Jesus and in their knowledge and love for our faith and our Church. I also love facilitating parent meetings for the Sacraments and including a panel of parents who share how they were a part of the process.” Sister Susan Javorek, SND, sums it up well. “Ministry at Holy Angels Parish these 20+ years has revealed to me the Body of Christ in very visible and tangible ways. It has offered me the privilege of walking with people in their joys and heartaches, their moments of conflict, their forgiveness and peace. My heart has been greatly expanded by learning, questioning, praying, celebrating, serving and visioning with so many people living their faith.”

Other parish ministries Sister Judy participates in include preparing children for the Sacraments of Confirmation, Reconciliation and Eucharist; the Parish School of Religion (PSR); the Family

Why not become more involved in your faith and local parish? To learn more about parish ministry, visit sndusa.org to connect with the SND regional office closest to you. Sister Marilyn Zgonc gives communion to parishioners of Ministry of Care program.

Winter 2021

Opening SND USA-Sponsored Schools Amid

COVID-19

This past fall, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) issued infection protection guidelines for K-12 schools returning to in-person learning during the coronavirus pandemic. Each school district across the United States was tasked to make decisions based on the rates of COVID-19 in their community, and the district’s capacity to mitigate risks within their schools. The agency suggested the lowest risk for in-person learning involved a “hybrid” learning model with online mixed with in-person classes – small in-person classes with alternating or staggered schedules. Furthermore, the CDC recommended cloth face coverings for students, teachers and staff, no handling common items, frequent handwashing, regular deep-cleaning of highly touched surfaces in school facilities, eating lunch in small groups, rearranging desks to face all in one direction, and installing plastic shields in bathrooms where sinks could not be six feet apart. SND educators across the country worked with great determination and creativity toward one goal: to keep students safe for in-person learning and the full experience of a close school community. Notre Dame Academy in Park Hills, KY

Sisters of Notre Dame USA | www.sndusa.org

Lial Catholic School

TOLEDO, OHIO Lynn Cherry is Head of School at Lial Catholic School in Whitehouse, Ohio, which includes a pre-K through 8th grade elementary school. “I started working together with faculty and staff last June to create our guideline resources,” Cherry says. Three handbooks were designed to guide and assist Lial families through the 20202021 school year: Living Lial at School Handbook, and Living Lial at Home Handbook were created

systems were installed on our HVAC units. This system helps to clean our buildings of mold, pollen, allergens, and viruses. All carpets and ductwork were thoroughly cleaned. ‘Zones’ were created designating certain classrooms, doors, and restrooms to specific grade bands to reduce the number of contacts a student/staff member encounters. Our weekly Mass is celebrated virtually in all classrooms.”

“ Our goal was to open safely and lovingly for families ready for face-to-face instruction.” - Lynn Cherry, Head of School, Lial Catholic School, Whitehouse, Ohio

to run in tandem with each other to meet the needs of families wanting face-to-face instruction for their students and those wanting remote instruction. If the entire school had to learn remotely, all families follow Lial Catholic School’s Online Handbook. Cherry explains, “I reworked many of our policies to keep our schools safe. Custom plexi barriers were designed and installed on all community tables in classrooms, the Science lab, and the Spanish room. Three outdoor classrooms were created with custom picnic tables and large tents. Two water stations were built outside allowing for eight students at each station to safely wash hands while being socially distant. It was designed off drip irrigation systems found in greenhouses. Additionally, iWaves air purification

Lial Catholic School in Whitehouse began their normal five-day schedule on September 1. Families choosing the “Living Lial at Home” option also began on September 1, using Google Meets to join classrooms from home. “Our goal was to open safely and lovingly for families ready for face-to-face instruction,” Cherry states. She is confident that Lial Catholic School continues to provide the same high-quality education despite COVID-19. “We put in long hours to prepare for this school year. An added bonus, we have great parents who are involved and who work well with their children’s teachers,” she explains with a smile. “Lial isn’t just a building; it’s the people who choose to fill it. Our Lial community is like a family. Together, we support each other in faith and friendship to keep each other safe and healthy.” continued on page 10 Winter 2021

Opening SND USA-Sponsored Schools Amid COVID-19 continued from page 9

COVINGTON, KENTUCKY Jack VonHandorf, principal of Notre Dame Academy in Park Hills, Kentucky, and his 2020-21 School Planning Team are constantly adjusting to the COVID-19 situation. They designed three plans at the onset of the school year:

• Plan 1

Traditional Learning @NDA: Full return to school with safety precautions in place

• Plan 2

Blended Learning @NDA: Combination of online and in-person classes to reduce the number of students at school

• Plan 3

Remote Learning @NDA: Full remote learning

“We began working last May to develop our Pandas Return to Campus Plan, ensuring that necessary health and safety measures were in place to mitigate the spread of coronavirus when school opened on August 17. NDA President Dr. Laura Koehl and I presented this plan to our community through a pre-recorded video,” VonHandorf says. “We also posted a written version on our website for reference throughout the school year. We followed what was provided by the CDC, NKY Health Department, the Kentucky Department of Education, and the Diocese of Covington. We also took into consideration all the data collected from recent parent surveys as well as input from faculty, staff and students.”

Self-Test is one of the best,” VonHandorf exclaims. “This self-test is completed by NDA students in the morning before they enter the building. Their responses produce a green or red screen on their phone or iPad. If they receive a green screen, it indicates they are healthy to attend school that day, and they show school personnel as they enter the building. If the screen is red, students must contact the school nurse before reporting to school. Along with the self-test, school personnel are taking student temperatures. This custom-designed app makes our arrival procedure safe, healthy and efficient.”

In addition to increasing the physical safety of their school community and COVID-19 Mitigation Strategies, NDA’s plan includes programs provided by their Student Services Department, addressing the social and emotional wellness of their students.

The experienced NDA principal believes the protocols put in place enable NDA to remain open and control the spread of the virus. “Our students are spaced six feet apart in classes and at lunch. We require masks in all classrooms. We added additional cleaning and sanitizing procedures. We are doing everything we can to protect our students while they are at school, and we are encouraging them to take safety precautions outside of school,” reiterates VonHandorf. He says they hired a school nurse, who works closely with the Northern Kentucky Health Department and Diocese of Covington, to help with emergency measures.

“While there have been many new protocols, policies, guidelines, and modifications at NDA for the 2020-21 school year, NDA’s custom COVID-19

“We communicate with students and families directly affected by the person who has tested positive for the virus,” he adds.

“We also took into consideration all the data collected from recent parent surveys as well as input from faculty, staff and students.” - Jack VonHandorf, Principal, Notre Dame Academy, Park Hills, Kentucky

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Notre Dame Academy in Park Hills, KY

“We are a one-to-one iPad school. This technology allowed us to quickly move to online learning in the spring of 2020,” VonHandorf states. “We added additional technology to improve the online experience that some students are choosing for their classes. “This is an opportunity to reinforce what it means to be a community and the sacrifices we sometimes have to make to be supportive of one another. We focus on comprehensive and transparent communication to provide parents

and students with all the information they need regarding school at NDA during this time. We built a great deal of trust within our community with the success of our remote learning implemented last spring. As a leader in educational technology, NDA was well positioned to take on the challenge of virtual instruction without sacrificing the quality of a Notre Dame Academy education,” VonHandorf says. continued on page 12

Winter 2021

Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin High Scool in Chardon, OH

Opening SND USA-Sponsored Schools Amid COVID-19 continued from page 11

CHARDON, OHIO Like Notre Dame Academy in Park Hills, Kentucky, Notre Dame Schools in Chardon, Ohio safely made reopening schools for in-person learning a priority. All students, faculty, and staff are required to wear masks. They may be on campus only if healthy and symptom-free. “We conduct temperature checks for everyone entering our buildings,” Dr. Michael Bates, President of Notre Dame Schools, remarks. “We augmented our facilities staff to ensure frequent sanitizing and disinfection of highusage areas. We created new spaces to socially distance in classrooms and at lunch. We continue

Joseph Waler, principal of NDCL, credits the high school’s successful reopening to student leadership as well as the careful, deliberate preparations of the faculty and staff throughout the summer. Students in grades K-12 returned to campus with a staggered start over 10 days in mid-August. Students had a choice for in-person or virtual learning. “We follow local and state guidelines and rely on local health authorities to do contact tracing,” he adds. “Our messaging abides by HIPAA privacy laws. If our county or schools are asked to quarantine or return to online learning for a period of time, we are readily prepared.”

“We created new spaces to socially distance in classrooms and at lunch.” - Dr. Michael Bates, President, Notre Dame Schools, Chardon, Ohio

to coordinate with the local Geauga County health authorities and a Board task force of doctors and nurses on all policies related to COVID-19.” A local newspaper reported, “Leadership and school spirit, not the coronavirus, surged on Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin (NDCL) campus the end of August as students and staff stepped up to implement the health and safety protocols enabling NDCL to offer in-person instruction for 95 percent of the 710 students.”

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The Notre Dame School’s president is confident they are providing the same high-quality education despite the pandemic. Bates says, “Parents receive weekly communication from both the elementary school and high school during the pandemic, and we provide them with resources to be even more resilient as parents.” He reassures students and parents, “You are loved by God and by our community. Never forget that our community abides in love and with respect for you. We are in this together, and we will thrive through this time.”

Instructor Stephanie Gray teaches her class online at La Reina High School in Thousand Oaks, California.

THOUSAND OAKS, CALIFORNIA Maggie Marschner, Principal of La Reina High School & Middle School in Thousand Oaks, California, says they have done monumental work to protect the health and safety of their faculty, staff, families and students at La Reina. “Through careful planning and oversight, our Director of Facilities and Operations, Mr. Laird Wilson, and his staff did an incredible job preparing La Reina’s facilities according to federal and state regulations to ensure all health and safety guidelines are in place,” Marschner states. “Through the summer of 2020, the La Reina staff worked tirelessly to prepare for the 2020-2021 school year. We gathered as a community and formed the Return to Campus Task Force, composed of medical, therapeutic, instructional, legal, security, technical and other areas of expertise. We prepared for the eventualities of this school year,” Marschner continues. “Our administrative team re-imagined three master calendars: one that allowed for socially distanced classrooms, as well as a hybrid version for La Reina on campus, and La Reina at-home option. She says desks are positioned six feet apart, and each classroom has hand sanitizing wipes and pump options available. The air conditioning system pulls fresh air and circulates it while windows are opened so air flow maintains the same direction. Hallways offer an eight-feet distance so students can move safely following directional arrows. They have touchless water stations and the spacious layout of their campus accommodates outdoor instruction.

“As both an educator and principal, I am most concerned about the safety and well-being of all students and staff,” Marschner emphatically states. “We remain vigilant to maintain the necessary guidelines and procedures. Temperatures are taken before students exit their vehicles in the morning. Students take a health screening survey prior to coming to campus. If a student is identified as having contracted COVID-19, La Reina’s staff works in full cooperation with Ventura County Public Health Department.”

“We remain vigilant to

Marschner adds, “La Reina maintain the necessary educators are guidelines and procedures.” professionals of the highest - Maggie Marschner, Principal, La Reina High School & Middle School, Thousand Oaks, California caliber. Their instructional pedagogy is something that, as professionals, they are continually refining. Last March, La Reina pivoted to Distance Learning with one day’s notice. La Reina’s faculty and staff boldly stepped into Spring 2020 and took on the challenge of COVID-19 by giving 110% every day in the virtual environment. We saw the results of that work with a 97% attendance rate, 91% AP pass rate, and our students maintaining their A-F grading scale. “The tradition of La Reina is rich and strong, never more so than at this very moment in history during the 2020-2021 school year. La Reina continues to lead the way in our community by boldly facing a shifting landscape, grounded solidly in the Educational Vision and Principles of the Sisters of Notre Dame.”

La Reina High School in California provides outdoor learning and social distancing in the classroom.

Winter 2021

Opening SND-Sponsored Schools The challenges of opening schools across the

schools use their free time to work in community

U.S. pale in comparison to the realities of SND

gardens to help feed the hungry. Sister Esther,

schools in other areas of the world.

SND, director of the Aloysia Home in Tanzania,

Many countries were in lockdown with their borders closed. In Mpala, Uganda, schools and colleges have been closed with limited online classes. Students residing in SND boarding

Africa, writes, “As the coronavirus has affected programs and activities all over the world, we, too, are staying home with the children who board at our school. We keep busy with different

“COVID 19, with its sudden upheavals, has changed our routines and lifestyles.” - Sigit Setyawen, Operational Director of Notre Dame Schools, Jakarta, Indonesia

Sister Prisca teaches a primary class in India during the pandemic.

Sisters of Notre Dame USA | www.sndusa.org

Worldwide During Pandemic activities like farm work, harvesting the

In Bangalore, India, schools remain closed

maize we planted, and planting trees around

while the Sisters of Notre Dame provide

our compound. The girls have also been

food for the families in need. India currently

busy with their studies each day, taking

has the largest number of confirmed cases

exams on the internet, participating in group

of coronavirus in Asia, and the second-

discussions, competing in debate, creating

highest number of confirmed cases in the

and telling stories, and making cards and

world after the United States. Sister Sudha

different decorations.”

Varghese, SND, in Patna, India painfully

Likewise, challenges abound in Jakarta, Indonesia that has a total of 1,330 students enrolled in Notre Dame classes. Sigit Setyawen, Operational Director of Notre Dame Schools, Jakarta, describes, “Teachers and students were not well prepared for the online teaching and learning that suddenly occurred. Our biggest challenge is teachers’

describes, “Our people are starving, and they have no work which means no money. I try to get dry rations packed and distributed among our people, particularly the elderly, widows, pregnant women, mentally/ physically challenged persons, orphans and whoever is in need of food. We started this last April, and it still continues.”

readiness. We are all finding it extremely

Sister Beena, SND (in the Patna province)

hard to master the technology challenges.”

concurs, “COVID 19, with its sudden

Setyawen continues, “We opened 73 classrooms in Zoom. Some students and teachers have devices (laptop or smartphone) to learn or teach online; others do not have wi-fi at home. School will probably reopen in July 2021 for juniorsenior high (blended/hybrid learning) and elementary school two months after juniorsenior schools. Our students are longing to return to the classrooms.”

upheavals, has changed our routines and lifestyles. Work, worship, home, healthcare, education and social life have all been altered. We are forced to adapt to quarantine, lockdowns, and physical distancing. Lockdowns have jeopardized the academic atmosphere everywhere, especially in India. There is an overwhelming sense of emotional damage, anxiety and uncertainty among teachers, students and their parents about classes, examinations and academic progression.”

Winter 2021

Each issue of SND USA Magazine will now include a feature article on spirituality by a guest writer. We hope you find the words inspiring, insightful, and encouraging.

Nourishing Our Sense of Wonder

A woman, living on the shores of Lake Huron, had her three-year-old grandson visiting for Christmas. One morning the two of them sat in the living room watching the sunrise over the lake. It was a beautiful sight, with the yellow and orange light reflecting on the water. The next morning the woman was working in the kitchen when she heard her grandson yelling excitedly from the living room, “Grandma! Come quick! It’s doing it again!”

Wonder Sister Melannie Svoboda has ministered in education, formation, and leadership. Currently she gives talks and retreats nationally. She is also the author of many books including: Hanging Onto Hope, The Grace of Beauty: Its Mystery, Power, and Delight in Daily Life, and Picking Strawberries: Prayer-Poems to Nourish the Soul. Visit her blog “Sunflower Seeds” at www.melanniesvobodasnd.org.

Sisters of Notre Dame USA | www.sndusa.org

When Jesus told us to become like little children, I think he was encouraging a childlike sense of wonder like that of the woman’s grandson. Children marvel at just about everything—even ordinary things: the rising sun, a creeping woolly worm, a chocolate chip cookie. Why is a childlike sense of wonder so important for our spiritual lives? First, wonder begets learning. When we wonder about things, we are often drawn to learn more about them—whether they be a certain person, an unusual bird at our feeder, or even a passage in scripture. Second, wonder can incite us to action. Our awe of rivers and forests may lead us to join conservation efforts to preserve them for future generations. Similarly, a disturbing news headline can move us to get involved with a particular social issue. Wonder can often lead to selfless service.

Third, a sense of wonder can bring us closer to God. St. Thomas Aquinas said that wonder was “the first rung of the ladder that leads to God.” Wonder or awe has the power to generate prayerful communion with God. And lastly, wonder instills life and vitality. As author Merry Browne wrote, “You know you’re old when you’ve lost all your marvels.” When

to make s’mores over an open fire, to read a certain poem, to go on a 6-hour river cruise, to take in a good movie, to sip a glass of wine together on the back porch.

When we wonder about things, we are following in the steps of Jesus. He stood in wonder at the birds of the air, the lilies of the field, a hen sheltering her chicks beneath her wings. He was fascinated we by bread rising, wheat germinating, wine aging, wonder and tiny seeds growing into big trees. He marveled at about people too: the playfulness things of children, the profound love of parents for their we are children, the compassion of a Centurion for his servant, following the faith-driven spunk of Syro-Phoenician woman in the steps the who wouldn’t take no for an answer. of Jesus.

If wonder is so important, then how might we nourish wonder in our daily lives? One way is to slow down. This can be hard because we live in a world that defies speed. We drive fast, work fast, talk fast, eat fast, and demand that our internet service be fast. So, we need to slow down on a regular basis or even pause from the rush in order to pay more attention to the people and world around us. In this way we can become noticers—especially of beautiful things: the dark inquisitive eyes of a child, the softness of a kitten’s fur, the taste and texture of Grandma’s nut rolls, the comforting strains of a favorite song.

We can also encourage others to take time to wonder with us. I have been dragged by family members or friends to go for a walk in the park, to sit and gaze at a sunset,

Jesus

So, may our prayer be: God of Wonder, when I behold the marvels of this world, I am filled with awe, vitality, and gratitude. Help me to nourish my sense of wonder by slowing down and becoming a noticer. May my wonderings lead to selfless service of others. I ask for these graces through our attentive Brother Jesus and the power of his awe-inspiring Spirit.

Amen.

continued on page 16

Winter 2021

Consider participating in an upcoming

SND USA Spiritual Retreat Awakening to God Within Us During these times of tension and restlessness and the behaviors they have evoked, we look for a sense of meaning and assurance. Where do we look? What do we find there? Cistercian monk and priest Thomas Keating and Franciscan priest Richard Rohr invite us to spend some time in retreat looking honestly at ourselves and knowing that God can lead and enlighten us if we only listen. Their CD series, Healing Our Violence Through the Journey of Centering Prayer, provides a pathway and practice for us. We look forward to your joining us March 12-14, 2021, as Frs. Keating and Rohr guide our virtual weekend retreat consisting of six sessions (approximately 60-90 minutes each). Visuals accompany the presentations. For further information, call Lial Renewal Center at 419-877-0432.

Choosing Christ in the World This is a valuable extended virtual or on-site retreat in everyday life inspired by St. Ignatius of Loyola which allows the retreatant to deepen her/his spiritual longings without leaving the reality of ordinary daily life. With the aid of the Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius, the retreatant finds nourishment for the desire to see Christ more clearly, love Him more dearly and follow Him more nearly. For more information: contact Sister Joanne Mary Frania, SND at 419-913-9851 by September 1, 2021.

Finding Christ in the World This is a virtual or on-site, 12-week retreat based on the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola for persons who desire to integrate the events of everyday life and their spiritual search. This experience requires participants to commit to prayer daily using the materials provided in the book,

Finding Christ in the World, while living the events of their ordinary daily life. Each week the group gathers virtually to deepen their prayer experience by sharing with the help of a facilitator. For more information about this virtual retreat and where to order the book, contact Sister Joanne Mary Frania, SND at 419-913-9851 by September 1, 2021.

On-Going Spiritual Direction/ Companioning Spiritual direction/companioning is an ancient practice of accompanying people who desire to grow in their relationship with God and find greater peace and purpose in their lives. This confidential, one-on-one meeting every 4-6 weeks is conducted in a respectful, prayerful atmosphere. Further information can be found on the Lial Renewal Center website: lialrenewalcenter.org.

Hanging onto Hope in a Beautiful and Imperfect World How do we remain hopeful amid the gloom and doom that pervades the daily news and our personal lives? This retreat explores that question by contemplating the nature of hope and its relation to faith, love, and courage. It also offers ways we can nourish hope in our lives through such things as prayer, service, friendship, letting go, playfulness, and beauty. Using scripture, music, poetry, stories, and short videos, we will be invited deeper into the Mystery of God, the ultimate source of all hope. Facilitated by Sister Melannie Svoboda, SND, this retreat is scheduled for May 23-29, 2021 at Heartland Center for Spirituality, Great Bend, KS. Further information can be found at www. heartlandspirituality.org.

To learn about additional SND USA spiritual retreats and programs open to the public, please visit the Lial Renewal Center website at lialrenewalcenter.org or the Bethany Retreat Center website at bethanyretreatcenter.org 18

Sisters of Notre Dame USA | www.sndusa.org

CARES Act Charitable Tax Incentives Extended Through 2021 Some of the charitable benefits included in the CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act) passed on March 27, 2020, have been extended through the 2021 calendar year. These two important charitable benefits provide donors several unique opportunities in 2021 when considering philanthropic support to charities of their choice.

1. An Expansion of the Universal Charitable Deduction for Cash Gifts The universal charitable deduction has not only been extended but given a well-deserved upgrade. The new deduction is $300 for single filers and $600 for married couples filing jointly. This is available to taxpayers who take the standard deduction. This tax incentive is available for cash gifts to qualified charities like the Sisters of Notre Dame (but not to supporting organizations or donor advised funds).

2. An Extension of the Cap on Deductions for Cash Contributions Contributions to public charities, like the Sisters of Notre Dame, are generally limited to a percentage of a taxpayerâ€™s adjusted gross income (AGI). The CARES Act lifted the cap on annual contributions for those who itemize, increasing it from 60% to 100% of AGI for 2020 (and now for 2021). Any excess contributions available can be carried over to the next five years. For corporations, the law raised the annual limit from 10% to 25% of taxable income. As we look ahead to a new year filled with promise, we remain grateful for your ongoing interest in and support of our ministry efforts. For more information on including the Sisters of Notre Dame in your estate plans, please contact your regional Mission Advancement Office.

COVINGTON, KY: JODEE MCELFRESH | jmcelfresh@sndusa.org THOUSAND OAKS, CA: SISTER LISA MEGAFFIN | lmegaffin@sndusa.org TOLEDO, OH: SISTER CAROL GREGORY | cgregory@sndusa.org CHARDON, OH: CARRIE HIGGINBOTHAM | chigginbotham@sndusa.org

The information in this publication is not intended as legal or tax advice. For such advice, please consult an attorney or tax advisor.

Winter 2021

Spotlight on SND USA Associate

Kevin McNamara

Kevin McNamara talks with Sr. Regina Robbins while donating blood at a La Reina Blood Drive.

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles is home to 4.3 million Catholics in nearly 300 parishes in 120 cities and three counties. Sunday Eucharist is celebrated in 42 languages. SND Associates are living, working, teaching, worshipping, and serving across this diverse landscape. Associates serve as lectors, Eucharistic ministers, catechists, and retreat leaders. They are active in parish-based bereavement and crisis accompaniment ministries, as well as outreach to the poor and marginalized. Each of these Associates is “drawn by the charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame…. To be a hope-filled presence in the world.” What led Kevin McNamara to become an advocate for those in need, an Associate of the Sisters of Notre Dame, and a volunteer extraordinaire for the sisters?

According to Kevin, the answer is simple. “The work was just there to be done.” 20

Sisters of Notre Dame USA | www.sndusa.org

Kevin started giving back during his 31 years with the Los Angeles Police Department. He helped with the Padre Los Ninos program in Skid Row, which provides services to children of immigrants, and at South Central LAMP (Los Angles Ministry Project), an organization founded by eight congregations of Kevin McNamara receives the Spirit of La Reina award. Catholic sisters after the civil unrest in 1992. The program’s goal is to help immigrant women and small children with familyKevin’s story, in many ways, centered programming. prepared him for a life of service “When you and faith. A graduate of Notre Dame When Kevin retired from the Police Department in 2004, helping others was already ingrained in him. In High School in Sherman Oaks, think back, you fact, seven hours into his retirement, La Reina called, CA, and California State University and he answered. His daughter, Caitlin, was graduating Northridge, Kevin is the oldest of just want to and the Sisters of Notre Dame needed help. He joined five siblings. When he turned 19 the staff, serving as the Facilities Manager. Since then, give something years old, he was drafted and sent to Vietnam. While Kevin was serving, the sisters have called him time and time again. “The sisters have me on speed dial. And I always answer,” he his father died. Family friends back.” says with a grin. stepped in to help raise the children and ensure they could remain in a Recently, Kevin received the “Spirit of La Reina Award,” Catholic school and go onto college. Kevin never forgot. the highest award given to a member of the La Reina “When you think back, you just want to give something Family. According to Kevin, “I am no hero. I am just back,” he states. “You want to sleep at night.” doing what anyone would do.” Those who know him beg to differ. Except he does so much more than anyone else. Just ask St. Julie Billiart Parish in Newbury Park where he (pre-COVID) regularly spent the night at its Winter Shelter program for homeless people. Just ask St. Maximillian Kolbe Parish where he served on the Finance Board. Just ask La Reina High School and Middle School where Kevin has been a mainstay, assisting the Director of Facilities in all tasks great and small, or just ask the Development Director where Kevin helps to raise funds for the school and is a generous donor.

If you are interested in becoming a SND Associate, please contact:

Winter 2021

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Are You Being Called? Have you thought about how you can make a difference in the lives of people around you? Do you want to reconnect with your faith or learn more? Perhaps you have sensed God calling you to a religious vocation. Maybe you are interested in exploring your own spirituality. Throughout the scriptures we are reminded that God has a unique design for each of our lives. The Sisters of Notre Dame Young Adult and Vocation team are offering several online Zoom programs in 2021 that may spark your interest. For example, this past December, young adults across the U.S. participated in several book studies including Life of the Beloved by Henri Nouwen and Discerning the Will of God: The Ignatian Guide to Christian Decision Making by Timothy Gallagher, OM. Please visit www.snd-vocation.org to learn about upcoming book studies and other online programs for young adults. We would love to have you join us! In fact, mark your calendar now for the online Lenten Retreat for Young Adults on March 5 at 7:00 p.m. through March 7 at 3 p.m. This weekend online retreat was inspired by the book, Boundless Compassion: Creating a Way of Life, by well-known author Joyce Rupp. Through presentations, small group sharing, communal prayer, meditation and quiet times, Sister Mary Dean Pfahler, SND, a certified Boundless Compassion facilitator, will invite young adult participants to open their hearts to themselves, to one another, to all living beings and to the earth. To register or for more information, please contact Sister Jenny Zimmerman at vocations@snd1.org.