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 – 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 publication’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
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