Intercom Annual Report 2019

Intercom

Annual Report 2019

S I S T E R S

O F

C H A R I T Y

O F

C I N C I N N AT I

A LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENT Dear Sisters, Associates, and Friends,

I Contents Communications........................3 Leadership .............................. 4-5 Chapter .................................. 6-7 Spirituality .................................8 Archives .....................................9 Vocation/Formation ........... 10-11 Associates .................................12 EarthConnection......................13 Ministry ............................. 14-16 Stewardship ..............................17 Peace, Justice and Care for Creation ............................. 18-19 Corporation Board for Sponsored Ministries ........................... 20-22 Social Justice Fund ...................23 Seton Enablement Fund ..... 24-25 Assembly of the Whole ....... 26-27 On the Cover: (From left) Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati Barbara Hagedorn, Louise Lears, Maureen Heverin and Annie Klapheke process into the SC Federation Assembly of the Whole, a momentous event bringing together 551 participants of the Federation for a powerful, inspiring, hopefilled four days. For more visit pages 26-27.

n preparation for our General Chapter this past April, we set ourselves the challenge to Venture Deeper into Divine Mystery. We invited ourselves to take a long, loving look at God’s immense love for us. And we wanted to deepen our gratitude to God for our Congregation of Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati, and for the privilege of living our charism statement in which we pledge, “we pray for the wisdom to know the needs of our sisters and brothers, and we dare to risk a caring response.” We counted the blessings we received during the four years since our previous General Chapter, and reflected together on the ways those blessings impelled us to loving service. Together we renewed and deepened our commitment to “dare to risk a caring response” to the evolving needs of tomorrow.

In the pages of this Annual Report, you will read about the various ways we lived that commitment during the past year. Many Sisters, Associates, family members, staff members, volunteers, and friends made that commitment a reality. They served in the offices of Archives; Associates; Communications; the Corporation Board for Sponsored Ministries; EarthConnection; Finance, including the SC Ministry Foundation and Seton Enablement Fund; Leadership; Ministry; Peace, Justice and Care for Creation; Spirituality; Sponsored Ministries; Vocation and Formation ministry; and countless other ministries.

As my eight years as President come to a close, I want to express my profound gratitude to each person who served in the name of the Sisters of Charity in any of the offices listed above, or in other organizations, or through the ministry of prayer. Your efforts have made a difference to countless individuals and groups, and to our Earth. In closing, it has been a privilege and a joy to serve, and I hold each of you in my heart and in my prayer.

Your Sister,

S. Joan Elizabeth Cook, SC

Disclaimer: The information contained in Intercom is intended for general information and educational purposes only. Opinions expressed herein are the views of individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati.

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Sharing the Journey

By S. Georgia Kitt and Erin Reder

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ommunications Office staff members remain grateful for opportunities during the Fiscal Year to share the journey with our writers, audience and Sisters and Associates. In our ability to do so, we were able to go deeper, creating new relationships and delivering our message to an audience inspired by the mission and ministries of the Sisters of Charity.

years of active ministry. “Vocation in Avocation,” also begun this year and written by AJ, offers insights into ways our Sisters and Associates help bring a sense of balance to their lives.

Staying updated on the everchanging field of Communications, particularly social media, staff members continued to attend conferences and workshops to learn more and stay Many hours this past year were abreast on the latest developments. spent on the redesign of the Sisters of Through multiple focus groups and Communications intern, and Mount St. Joseph University student, AJ Charity website (www.srcharitycinti. surveys, we focused on the needs of Keith interviews Sisters and Associates for an upcoming article. org). The excitement of months of our audience. As a result, in the fall development was a definite incentive of 2018, the Communications Office We communicated the energy of the to reflect on going deeper with God’s launched Charity in Motion to more than 2019 Chapter, held this spring, through guidance. The site was launched at the end 425 subscribers. The electronic newsletter is a variety of mediums. It gave writers, of the Fiscal Year and offers viewers a fresh, intended to reach an audience more varied photographers, delegates and collaborators welcoming and informative visit. New opportunities to go deeper as we sought the in age and interest and includes calendar sections and pages detail the Community’s items, feature articles and video spotlights.

Spirit’s presence among all gathered. We rich history and provide opportunities to Our office continues affiliation with continued to collaborate with our Sisters stay connected through calendar events and of Charity Federation communicators, Communicators for Women Religious prayer intentions.

(CWR) which serves as a source of keeping the SC charism alive. In the Continuing to utilize Pope Francis’ 2017 call to share the journey with our neighbors, the office highlighted the theme in our web and printed materials. In addition share the journey was used in brief Advent video reflections as attention turned to increased border situations. During Lent we provided quotes from Pope Francis and offered actions for our viewers/readers to assist migrants and asylum seekers. This was shared across our social media platforms. By spring we further supported our Sisters and Associates efforts, sharing their personal stories and experiences from the border through feature articles and testimonials.

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summer at the first-ever Federation Assembly of the Whole, we shared our gifts to reflect the spirit and energy present through stories, video and photos.

Staff members are grateful for the contributions of our current Mount St. Joseph University intern AJ Keith throughout this year. His writing skills have expanded our reach and offered us additional opportunities in print, web and social media areas. AJ’s interviews of Sister volunteer activities, a feature entitled “Continuing to Serve,” illustrate how mission continues well beyond a Sister’s

enrichment and resources as we interact with colleagues and partners. It enhances our ability to help viewers, visitors and readers to better know who women religious are today, seen as viable and contributing to the Church, the larger society and the common good.

As a result of our networking, expanded relationships, outreach and varied contacts, we have gone deeper in our publications and presence on social media, and through our relationships and shared experiences. We, too, share the journey. The SC charism continues to call us forth with energy and enthusiasm.

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Moving Together Into the Future

By S. Mary Bookser

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iscal 2018-2019 was a year which brought this Leadership Council’s work to completion. It was a year of new “firsts” and a year of intense preparation for our General Chapter of Affairs and Elections. Much of the year is framed in the Sisters of Charity song: “We enter into the mystery of this place … of this time. … We delight in the mystery of each other … (and) of our God.” The 2018 Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) Assembly in early August 2018 in St. Louis, Missouri, called us to “Being the Presence of Love: The Power of Communion.” The Assembly keynotes focused on how we might better foster communion in our world today in light of our commitment to Gospel values, as well as how we might shape and exercise our leadership in these very complex times.

In late August, for the first time, all of our Jubilarians celebrated their various Jubilees together. This was a joyous reminder of the many years of love and service provided to our world.

Our Fall Congregational Days in 2018 focused on Leadership. Some of the key presentations at the LCWR assembly and how these impact our own Congregational future were presented, along with the wisdom and experience of our own leaders and leadership Sisters from other congregations. During this Congregational weekend, the Chapter Planning Committee began preparation together for our early spring Chapter assembly days. These occur every four years and when in session are 4

(From left) Sisters Louise Lears, Marge Kloos, Mary Bookser, Mary Caroline Marchal and President Joan Elizabeth Cook concluded their Leadership term together during Fiscal 2018-2019.

the highest authority in the Congregation.

During these days the template for the next four years is set (the Chapter of Affairs), and a new Leadership Council is elected (the Chapter of Elections).

One of our intense periods of sharing and preparation occurred during an Advent “Dream Weaving” weekend. We heard the continuing call to deepen our relationships with one another, with people in our local area, throughout our world and with all God’s creation. The truth of our belief in the interrelatedness and interconnection in the sacred web of life was palpable. We heard of our hunger for a deepening of our contemplative spirituality. We recognized the need for continuing collaboration, as a key for our Mission, Vision and Charism to continue to impact our world. And as

always we recognized that God calls each of us to participate in a “leadership of the whole”: everyone has a part to play in transformational leadership if our goal is to bring about an awareness of the deep interconnection and communion of all life on Earth.

As part of our governance structure our small groups continued to meet in preparation for our Chapter meetings.

January and February included a Leadership Council presentation on key values and qualities we saw as essential for leadership as well as a presentation of the “Four Year Report” of our leadership work since our last Chapter of Affairs meeting. This was then accepted during the 2019 Chapter of Affairs.

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One of the highlights of the end of this year was the Sisters of Charity Federation of North America’s “Assembly of the Whole.” Sisters from all 14 Charity and Vincentian congregations were energized as they met members of other congregations, deepened the inter-connectedness among the groups, and explored how to effect systemic change together. As S. Peggy O’Neill, SC of Convent Station, gave The newly elected Leadership Council of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati her keynote address we were includes (front row, from left) Sisters Marge Kloos, councilor; Teresa Dutcher, reminded that as we continue councilor; Patricia Hayden, president; (back row, from left) Joanne Burrows, to evolve and struggle with councilor; and Monica Gundler, councilor. more questions than answers, The General Chapter of Affairs and we must remember that “we Elections took place from March 31 come from love and are moving toward a through April 5, 2019. The conversations more inclusive love.” All that we do to address during the former focused on a deepening the needs of our world must be grounded in of the 10-year 2015 Chapter Direction. our Center who is God, who is love.

Questions were identified which would bring greater clarity to our unfolding future. Some of these included noticing the way our living impacts our charism; looking more deeply at what the unique contribution of our vowed life is; how we can share our spirituality and work to change unjust systems in the world in which we live; and continuing to look at how we can best utilize our human, financial and natural resources to aid those in greatest need as well as in care for God’s Earth, and more.

In the Chapter of Elections, S. Patricia Hayden was elected the new president.

S. Marge Kloos was reelected for another four-year term as an executive councilor, and three new councilors were elected: Sisters Joanne Burrows, Teresa Dutcher and Monica Gundler.

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The year ended with the installation of our new Leadership Council which occurred during a special Mass celebrated on June 29, 2019. A song, woven throughout various parts of our year, expresses the spirit which filled the celebration and moves us together into the future.

(Now) we turn a page, not a beginning or an end, but the next part of the journey. …

This is a New Chapter, the next chapter to our journey.

Only God could know this would be our road. …

Our hearts are opened wide, our steps are sanctified, For a New Chapter of our life.

(From Blessings of the Universe

by Earth Mama/Joyce Johnson Rouse)

During the first-ever Sisters of Charity Federation Assembly of the Whole, Sisters from all 14 Charity and Vincentian congregations were energized as they met members of other congregations.

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CH A P TER 2019:

Going Deeper Into Divine Mystery March 31-April 5, 2019

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n Chapter 2019 we embraced Divine Mystery. Throughout the week, through our envisioning, reflecting, sharing and going deeper together, we continued on our journey toward wholeness. Using Pope Francis’ invitation – to radiate the true joy that comes from being loved by God – we are becoming more aware of what is being asked of us as members as well as elected leaders. Throughout the week the Chapter writing team* distilled themes and questions that they heard during the time together.

How is the way we are living our charism shifting – and what are the implications?

What about our religious life makes us profoundly relevant for our time?

What could be the unique contribution of vowed life that we would give our lives away for?

How can we share with the larger world the gifts we have been given: community, spiritual grounding, an alternative way of living?

How will we live with the tensions and ambiguities of unanswered questions?

As we continue to reflect on our Chapter experience, we call to mind our familiar Chapter prayer: Good and gracious God, we give you thanks and praise for the countless ways you bless our community of Charity. Grace us with the courage to venture deeper into divine mystery, so that what we have said together be what we live together. *Many thanks to our Chapter Writing Team Members: Sisters Rita Hawk, Mary Alice Stein, Marie Tessmer and Associate Debbie Weber.

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Going Deeper

By S. Marty Dermody

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his past year as a Congregation we were called to reflect and ponder: “How do we go deeper into Divine Mystery?” What a thought-provoking and ideal topic for all of us women and men of faith to think about during our own inner search. The Sisters of Charity Spirituality Center focused this past year on ways that could help others reach into their center to experience the beauty we all share from within our hearts and souls.

In July 2018 S. Maureen Wild presented Nurturing Christ-Presence with God’s Good Earth and Cosmos, focusing on the Divine creativity unfolding a sacred creation. Retreatants reflected on the works of Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ and care for our common home. In August Jan Novotka and Marie Larkin focused on Awakening Consciousness, sharing how we explore both traditional spirituality and modern scientific insights. The retreat provided us with the groundwork for understanding this new dimension of consciousness.

Throughout the year our programs and topics encouraged participants to take a closer, deeper look at how we search for God and silence in our lives. We explored

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different ways to pray by Restoring the Sacred Rhythm of Rest and Moving Towards Balance with Ayurveda, presented by Jennifer Perry. We used methods of writing and listening to nature with the skills of Rebeka Maples by reaching for deeper understanding of ourselves and the spiritual life.

During the Advent season we set aside some time for Restoring Our Balance, reflecting on how we can make gentle changes to restore a centered calmness in our lives. Participants were provided time for solitude and rest, sharing and silence to ponder their desire for God and restore their commitment to balance.

all of creation continued throughout the year as we journeyed within, going deeper to see what our loving God provides for us. The Spirituality Center continues to offer opportunities for others to come and explore ways to reach into the depths of their lives – to experience the Divine Mystery within each of us each new day.

S. Donna Steffen (standing) led Remembering, Savoring, Celebrating, Awaiting, a time of guided reflection, prayer, journaling, sharing and ritual, on New Year’s Eve.

We celebrated Mother Margaret George in November and began 2019 Remembering, Savoring, Celebrating, Awaiting the New Year. S. Victoria Marie Forde helped us venture deeper into divine mystery through our own Servant of God, S. Blandina Segale, as she continues to provide a strong model of ways to risk a caring response for our time. And S. Mary Ann Flannery guided us on what Going Deeper Into the Divine Mystery actually means as individuals and as a congregation.

Time for quiet, reflection and sharing

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Deepening the Charity Legacy

By Veronica Buchanan, Archivist

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uring the 2018-2019 year, the Archives and its dedicated team of 14 Sister and Associate volunteers continued to make strides in improving accessibility to our collections, conveying the history to visitors, and expediting requests for Congregational offices as well as external researchers.

The Archives has furthered the Community’s commitment to the spirit of hospitality in its Motherhouse tours that were given by nine Sister docents this year.

In total, the program conducted 37 tours for more than 600 visitors. This year’s highlights include providing tours for 14 sections of the Freshmen Orientation course at Mount Saint Joseph University, hosting a welcoming event for incoming freshmen to DePaul Cristo Rey High School, and conducting specialized tours for the re-invigorated orientation program for new Motherhouse and Sponsored Ministry employees.

Instilling a deeper connection to the Community founders and charism was a recurring theme for many of the projects conducted this year. On Nov. 4, 2018, the Community held an event entitled “Celebrating our Founder – Mother Margaret George” to commemorate the 150th anniversary of her death; the Archives provided a display of original artifacts, scrapbooks, and artistic depictions of Mother Margaret completed by Sisters in a variety of mediums. This celebration of Mother Margaret continued through the June 5, 2019 dedication of a memorial recognizing the founding seven Sisters of the Community in the center circle of the Mount St. Joseph cemetery.

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This decoupage table was discovered in the attic of the Motherhouse and transformed by DePaul Cristo Rey High School Corporate Work Study student Korynn Whittle.

Servant of God Blandina Segale has remained a constant presence in the Archives’ projects and requests. This year, we assisted Petitioner Allen Sanchez with research to aid in the advancement of her cause. In the fall of 2018, Archivist Veronica Buchanan was able to visit the archives of four institutions in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, New Mexico; the most exciting discovery was a photograph of St. Vincent Hospital under construction circa 1880, concurrent to the time S. Blandina served there as superior.

During the school year, we hosted three students from DePaul Cristo Rey High School through the Corporate Work Study Program. Sophomore Logan Maldonado focused on digitizing a collection of graduate photographs from Mount St. Joseph Academy,

a boarding school conducted at the Motherhouse from 1906 to 1947. Junior Korynn Whittle channeled her passion for interior design into remodeling two display cases on the second floor of Marian Hall as well as the completion of a decoupage project featuring blueprints of the Motherhouse. Finally, Sophomore Jesmin Castanon-Mejia served with the Archives for just three months, but made the most of his time by adding birth dates and photographs for existing records of Sisters buried in the Mount St. Joseph cemetery on the website Findagrave.com. We look forward to seeing how our future students’ unique talents will enhance our existing endeavors.

Just as the Community has challenged itself to delve deeper into the Divine Mystery this year, the Archives has made marked strides in compelling Sisters, Associates, scholars, and community leaders to dive deeper into the rich history and charism of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati.

On June 5, 2019, Sisters dedicated a memorial recognizing the founding seven Sisters of the Community in the center circle of the Mount St. Joseph cemetery.

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Still Inviting: S. Janet Gildea’s Passion for Religious Life

By S. Monica Gundler

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ou have a lot of inviting to do.” Sister of Charity Janet Gildea reported these words when she awoke from surgery 11 years ago for stage 4 ovarian cancer. She said, “I heard a voice. I think maybe it was Mother Margaret George and it was very clear.”

As she met young adults returning from their time as volunteers after college, she proposed and funded the “AVE, After Volunteer Experience,” a program to serve this special population that included spiritual direction, community living, counseling and retreat as well as time and space in community at Casa de Caridad.

Although always a passionate advocate for the poor and for her She also initiated a weekend last belief in religious life, that message year for those in transition, whether seemed to light a fire that fanned the transition be in retirement or into flame over the next decade new living, or young adults who S. Janet Gildea (back row, second from left) was tireless in her efforts to of her life. Janet was tireless in her were seeking the next phase in life. In invite. efforts to invite. She, Sisters Peggy the Diocese of El Paso, she began a for those who might be seeking ways to Deneweth and Carol Wirtz, along with Catholic young adult group after seeing the find God in a new vocation. Janet was a other companions in the years since, hosted need during her time in campus ministry at prolific writer and presenter on a variety countless volunteers, Sisters, discerners and the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). of topics including religious life, vocation others to join them at Casa de Caridad, Janet later proposed to the ministry and the vows. Her blog, “Each their home in Anthony, New Mexico, to Congregation that our Affiliate program be Day Counts,” chronicled her journey with live and minister on the margins. cancer and became a whole new ministry to located on the margins and so began her She was a voice in the Sisters of role in Formation work. Even though this those on the same path.

Charity Federation urging collaboration ministry quickly multiplied, she still found Janet was one of the original dreamers and new ideas. She did what most of us time to write and travel as well as become for a Federation House of Charity, and have done in vocation work over the years the vicar for religious in the Diocese of provided the first house blessing when we attending workshops, dinners, programs El Paso. During Janet’s involvement with welcomed 30 Sisters and volunteers from and events, but she always had a next step.

Formation work, we welcomed five new nine different Federation congregations to members to the Sisters of Charity of Janet approached the SC New Orleans, Louisiana, back in January Communications Office and began E-Voc, 2010. During a prayer service at the House Cincinnati. In addition, Janet’s work was integral in creating the Federation Future an award-winning electronic newsletter. of Charity on St. Vincent de Paul, Janet of Charity, which gathers women across the Each month she wrote articles, provided chose ZEAL and all of us laughed saying SC Federation who are in Initial Formation resources and carefully reviewed content “one gift you don’t need more of is zeal.” and have under 10 years in Final Vows.

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Initial Formation Highlights  S. Whitney Schieltz began her time of Apostolic Novitiate in August 2018 with ministry at Working in Neighborhoods. Whitney professed First Vows in August 2019.  In September 2018, S. Romina Sapinoso celebrated her First Vows with Sisters, family and friends. Sisters of Charity from across the Federation as well as Sisters from Giving Voice joined Romina at Mount St. Joseph.

Romina’s parents and siblings were present, arriving from the Philippines to celebrate this special day.

S. Janet Gildea (right) was one of the original dreamers for the Sisters of Charity Federation House of Charity in New Orleans, Louisiana.

 Meetings of the Future of Charity, the Assembly of the Whole, Journeying Together, Chapter 2019 and Giving Voice were also opportunities for those in various levels of Initial Formation to come together.

Janet’s last months were spent still inviting, this time to call volunteers to assist with the crisis at the border. She was passionate in speaking out about the treatment of the asylum seekers. Several of our Sisters and Associates and other Sisters in the SC Federation responded generously and spent time at Casa de Caridad even as Janet began her time with hospice care.

Like many of our Sisters before her who were tireless advocates for justice, the Earth, or those on the margins, Janet could be a “force.” She easily identified with S. Anthony O Connell whom she portrayed in S. Lynne Mancinelli’s play Legacy of Love: “There was work to do.

And even if she had to move mountains, nothing would stop the dream” (S. Lynne Mancinelli, Legacy of Love, 1994). Thank you, Janet, for your dreaming and doing.

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 The bold vision of the Sisters of Charity Federation began serious exploration of new ways to collaborate in Initial Formation.

 In spring 2019, S. Tracy Kemme participated in a panel presentation at the Motherhouse with co-authors of the book In Our Own Words: Religious Life in a Changing World.

(From left) Sisters Janet Gildea, Peggy Deneweth and Carol Wirtz hosted countless volunteers, discerners and Sisters in their New Mexico home.

Sisters of Charity President Joan Elizabeth Cook (left) witnesses S. Romina Sapinoso signing the Vow Book.

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Together for a Common Mission

By Chanin Wilson, director of Associates

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ver the last year, Associates have heeded the call to Venture Deeper into Divine Mystery. Thirty Associates from Ohio, Colorado, Alaska, North Carolina, Maryland and Texas participated in Chapter as collaborators.

Others participated via webcast as supporters.

It was an exciting opportunity to engage with the Sisters in planning for the future of our Community. Associate Karen Martin commented, “It is amazing how much alike the thinking is between Sisters and Associates.”

A number of Associates were blessed to join the Sisters and Associates who live and minister at the border in New Mexico and Texas. Associate Patrice Harty reflected during her two weeks in El Paso: “The people [at the border] are certainly sacrament to one another as their love in action transcends borders, language, and culture. The barriers that may otherwise keep us apart melt away with warm hugs and sweet smiles.” Other Associates have joined with Sisters in welcoming the family from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Mount St. Joseph. Associate Patricia Plogmann has many stories of the various games she has played with 4-year-old Samuel.

Associates also serve on Sponsored Ministry boards as well as Congregational advisory committees and planning committees.

Associate Carla Rush is the newest board member of the North American Conference of Religious Associates (NACAR).

Associate leadership continues to develop through our Regional Representatives and the 18-month Collaborative Leadership Development Program (CLDP). During the winter, Associates had the opportunity 12

now know who Associates are, and Associates appreciate the fact that they do not need to wear a visitor ID.

Associates from across the country participated in Chapter 2019 as collaborators and supporters.

to participate in two small group processes to dialog about how the Regional Representatives responsibilities are evolving.

The conversations were diverse and engaging and assisted in continuing to refine the Regional Representative role. The seven Regional Representatives continue to develop as a team and share ideas during a bimonthly Zoom meeting. In addition, Associates Sue DiTullio and Carmen Ferguson have been participating in CLDP. They have both learned a tremendous amount and will complete the program in November 2019.

Associate Sue DiTullio commented, “Carmen and I have been given a fantastic opportunity to grow and we truly hope that in the future we will be able to bring some of what we have learned back to the Community.”

As Associates continue the journey with Sisters, we now have Associate ID badges to wear at the Motherhouse. The ID badges have the Associate’s picture, name and the year he/ she became an Associate. Sisters, Associates, and employees have commented on how much they appreciate being able to identify familiar faces as Associates. Employees who see the same faces around the Motherhouse

Fourteen Associates traveled to Chicago, Illinois, to join more than 500 Federation Sisters and more than 50 Federation Associates for the Assembly of the Whole.

The energy and collaboration were amazing to experience in person. Associate Moe Nieman reflected, “Federation lights of love reach out in different directions, but always remember we came from the same source.”

In the last fiscal year we have had five new Associates make their commitments; nine more candidates did so in August.

Currently, there are 198 Associates, 15 of them have made their Lifetime Commitment and we have 18 candidates.

It is wonderful to continue the journey with Sisters and Associates working together for a common mission.

Patricia Plogmann (left) is one of the SC Associates volunteering her time to help a family from the Democratic Republic of Congo acclimate to the area.

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Living Lightly at EarthConnection

By S. Caroljean Willie

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arthConnection (EC) continues the vision of its founder, S. Paula Gonzalez, Ph.D., to provide a space for learning and reflection about living lightly on Earth as well as a model for the use of renewable energy through its solar panels and geothermal system.

We offer programs and workshops at EC, but also reach out to a larger public through presentations and workshops at other sites.

Programs both on- and off-site lead us to move deeper into the mystery of all creation and inspire a sense of gratitude for the diversity of all God’s creation.

This past year EC continued its program “Movies That Matter.” Featured films included “This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. the Climate” as well as a series on “Sinking Cities” which highlighted major cities throughout the world vulnerable to climate change and the steps each is taking to adapt to and mitigate its effects. Our series on “Spirituality and Sustainability” from the perspective of multiple religious traditions hosted speakers from the Baha’i, Catholic, Sikh and Zoroastrian faith communities.

Girl Scout leaders from throughout the region chose to have their annual meeting at EC. This gave us the opportunity to present what we have to offer to Girl Scouts. A number of leaders throughout the year brought their troops to earn the EarthConnection patch as well as to fulfill the requirements for badges related to the outdoors and environmental sustainability. EC personnel also attended a thank you breakfast at Girl Scout headquarters in Blue Ash (Cincinnati).

Outside speakers in various fields were invited to share their expertise with participants. Jim Rule from the Cincinnati Zoo A N N U A L R E P O RT 2 0 1 9

spoke on “The Greenest Zoo in the Country.”

He highlighted its environmentally responsible technologies and practices, including a 1.56-megawatt solar canopy with 6,400 solar panels and a 400,000-gallon underground tank that collects rainwater used throughout the zoo complex, energy-efficient buildings, and water use reduction among others.

Tara Poling, program director at the Marianist Environmental Education Center in Dayton, spoke on “Gardening with Native Plants.” Her presentation included how to install a rain garden, replacing aggressive or invasive species, creating a bird and butterfly garden and other techniques for backyard gardening. S. Marty Dermody gave a presentation on “Our Feathered Friends” which offered participants an opportunity to learn about birds in their own environment.

S. Shirley Le Blanc led drum circles throughout the year to participants of all ages.

EC hosted a day of input and activities at the Sisters of Charity Motherhouse to celebrate Earth Day. It included input from a speaker from the Cincinnati Zoo

A number of leaders throughout the year brought their troops to earn the EarthConnection patch as well as to fulfill the requirements for badges related to the outdoors and environmental sustainability.

(From left) Sisters Winnie Brubach and Caroljean Willie reach out to the larger public through presentations and workshops off-site.

on its history; a film on Notre Dame de Namur S. Dorothy Stang, who was assassinated in 2005 for working with a native community in Brazil to help protect their land from developers; learning to zentangle with environmental themes; a presentation on “The Green New Deal” and “EarthConnection’s Garden”; and a game of endangered species bingo.

EC donated more than 900 pounds of fresh produce from its garden to the Good Samaritan Health Center in Price Hill (Cincinnati) from the 2018 growing season.

In the spring of 2019 new raised beds were constructed in the garden out of western red cedar. Planting of seeds started early in the Sun Space at EC. The growing seedlings were then transplanted outdoors when the frost was past.

Garlic, onions, chard, lettuce, spinach, carrots, peas, beans, eggplant, a variety of peppers, cabbage, tomatoes and basil were among the crops planted. Flowers were also planted and each week the staff at the health center is gifted with a bouquet of flowers.

Please keep up-to-date with EarthConnection events by going to www.scearthconnection.org.

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Do What Presents Itself

By S. Marge Kloos

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efore they were Sisters of Charity, Servant of God S. Blandina Segale and her sister, S. Justina Segale, were immigrants. They embraced a new life in a country that, in time, grounded their human experience in the contours of belonging. Both possessed a staggering capacity for compassionate outreach, no doubt grown in the soil of struggle, transition and hope. They inspired many along the way to join them, leading to social services, education, and health care outreach across their new homeland.

parents, deserved immediate compassion and resources.

“The ground of my being was more than ready to help with the unfolding immigration crisis,” she said. “Part of our charism is to look around and see what presents itself. No more generation-defining issue cries out for charity than what immigrants are experiencing today.”

During the weeks Sister served, she felt privileged to greet newcomers to this country. Guests needed every kind of assistance and she found herself cooking, serving many meals, and cleaning rooms so that when newcomers would arrive, they would have a safe, clean place of nourishment to quickly rest, usually after very long trips through multiple countries.

Our Charism of Charity still animates the hearts of Sisters for the work of transforming human suffering and striving into grace. In the words of founder Mother Margaret George, “A heart filled with charity is a sanctuary in which God loves to dwell.”

Embodying these words as modern practitioners of ministry, Sisters of Charity continue to “do what presents itself.”

Welcome the Stranger S. Patricia Wittberg Given her interest in global current events in high school, it is no wonder that S. Patricia Wittberg followed her curiosity about world affairs into the field of sociology. As a student with a Time Magazine in-hand, Sister developed an informed sense of responsibility for the dramas unfolding on the world stage, nurturing a life-long fascination with how humans behave within social systems.

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S. Pat Wittberg (front), with S. Jackie Kowalski, responded to a call to Catholic Sisters to come to the U.S.-Mexico Border to help with the immigration crisis.

Eventually Sister followed her curiosity to sociology, where she has become widely respected among Catholic Sisters for her research about religious life. The intersection of her two life-long passions, current events and Catholic Sisters, compelled S. Pat to briefly suspend her responsibilities as the director of the Seton Enablement Fund so she could respond to an LCWR “all-hands-on-deck” call to Catholic Sisters to come to the U.S.Mexico Border. The immediacy of the crisis, forever impressed on American consciousness as children separated from

Within hours of arriving at the welcome centers across the region, immigrants quickly moved along to buses and airports so they could continue their journeys as they await immigration hearings with family and friends in the interior. Time with them was brief, but precious.

S. Pat has since interviewed and recorded the experiences of our Sister and Associate volunteers who experienced the border during this past year of crisis and suffering. As she concluded her narrative, Sister reflects, “As with previous generations of women religious, who built schools and hospitals, nursed on the battlefields of the Civil War, and marched in protest movements for Civil Rights and against wars, Sisters’ stories still speak to the need that presents itself.”

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Care for Creation S. Winnie Brubach Many on the Westside of Cincinnati remember the yard sales begun by S. Paula Gonzalez. They were a way to demonstrate the benefits of “repurposing, recycling, and reusing.” About this time S. Winnie Brubach was relocating from Pueblo, Colorado where she had served for many years as a youth minister. In Colorado she developed a passion for the beauty of creation. Upon her arrival in Cincinnati, S. Winnie quickly became an advocate for S. Paula’s fervent personal mission to wake up humans to the consequences of Earth’s relentless gifting.

In recognition of their years of service and the pounds of unwanted items they rescued from landfills, S. Winnie Brubach (right) and her volunteers were honored with a white oak tree that has been planted on the Motherhouse property. Also pictured, volunteer June Greensmith.

After serving as a staff photographer for the Sisters of Charity, S. Winnie signed on for an “interim” support role, helping S. Paula to care for the newly built, energyefficient demonstration building called EarthConnection. In time, Sister learned the “ins-and-outs” of the building’s infrastructure. For more than a quarter century, S. Winnie has been the anchoring presence at EarthConnection, doing what presents itself.

S. Winnie entered enthusiastically into helping S. Paula and Shirley Cades with yard sales. Many yard sales. Sometimes two or three a year. Items for the sales were stored in a variety of locations through the years, all filling to capacity with unwanted items. As the years passed, S. Winnie took on overseeing the sorting, cleaning, and boxing of used clothing. June Greensmith volunteered many hours over many years as well. On sales days, a faithful workforce of Sister-volunteers helped set up, cashier, and pack boxes.

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15

While the sales brought in some revenue for EarthConnection, it was never enough to justify the hours spent managing the inventory. The project continued for many years because it was incredibly effective at raising awareness as well as meeting a demand for affordable, clean clothing and household items. “I continued the project as a ministry to the Sisters and employees who found plenty of treasures,” says S. Winnie.

“As an educator for more than 40 years, I have experienced the lack of academic preparation impacting students whose families live at or below the poverty line,” she said. “I’ve heard the frustration of parents, not being able to help their children academically as well as provide for them in other ways. It’s a privilege for me to be a part of helping children and their families hold on to hope and possibility.”

Her approach is succeeding! S. Annette recalls, “I will never forget a third grader who said, ‘I don’t WANT to read.’ Then one day as I was working with her she suddenly exclaimed, ‘I CAN read! I can READ!’ This student is about to enter high school and says she wants to be a teacher so she can help kids.” Here kids are encouraged to imagine a world in which they “pay it forward.”

In April Sister and her team decided it was time to end the clothing sale. On a positive note, they acknowledge that in today’s world they did their part to encourage “recycling, repurposing and reusing” to become common practices.

WIN provides individual tutoring, especially in math and reading, but also in science and music. Neighborhood kids now have a place to go after school where they can get a snack, find a listening ear, get help with homework, and unwind with craft projects or just play games in an encouraging, friendly environment. Sister’s approach to the program is to work with the whole child “where kids are mentored and know they are cared about.”

S. Annette says of this ministry, “the most important part is also the most difficult to describe. It is simply to LOVE these kids and their families. One greatgrandmother remarked as I was leaving after a trying afternoon, ‘Those kids just draw all the love in you right out, don’t they?’ All that love doesn’t originate with me. God lets it flow through me, even on tough days. Such grace. Such blessing.”

Encouraging the Children S. Annette Muckerheide When biologist and professor S. Annette Muckerheide dreamed about what might be calling to her after leaving Mount St. Joseph University, she knew her next act would most likely be ministering in some capacity at Working in Neighborhoods (WIN) in Cincinnati. For years, she saw the steady, positive impact WIN had had on the families in the neighborhoods served by the agency.

Best known for their efforts to help residents access affordable housing in safe, environmentally healthy neighborhoods in Cincinnati, WIN staff have long-recognized the need to tend to the families as well as the buildings they occupy.

So when Sister left her teaching position, she signed on to lead an after school program at WIN. The program serves children ages 5-16 and assists their families by providing academic support and mentoring that is not available through the local school system or home setting.

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At Working In Neighborhoods S. Annette Muckerheide leads an after school program for children ages 5-16.

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Our Mission Never Rests

By Tim Moller, CFO

F

iscal 2019 Congregational financial results were, once again, very positive, primarily due to continuing solid investment returns of approximately 6 percent. For the last three years, average annual returns were approximately 7.5 percent. Excluding investment results, total net operating revenue and expenses were favorable to budget primarily due to retroactive property tax refunds related to Villa San Bernardo, higher than anticipated retirement income, lower than anticipated retirement expenses, and lower spending in local houses and in campus overhead departments. Fiscal 2019 operating results were consistent with last year’s results.

Looking ahead to Fiscal 2020, equity markets continue to be very positive and are at or near all-time highs. Markets will pay close attention to the geopolitical environment and developments in Washington, D.C. Valuations are relatively high and any decrease in corporate profitability due to tariffs, a slowing global economy or political divisiveness could cause a significant pull back.

During Fiscal 2019 the Sisters of Charity set a new, simplified direction for the SC Ministry Foundation, which included the process of absorbing the Foundation’s administrative operations into the Congregation. The grant process has been simplified for both the Foundation and its grantees. During the year significant one-time block grants were made to the Sponsored Ministries and to the Congregation; and more than $5.0 million was granted to non-related grantee organizations. Areas of emphasis included assisting immigrants, refugees, and the homeless, promoting literacy and health

A N N U A L R E P O RT 2 0 1 9

care for the poor, and supporting Price Hill schools and social programs.

The Sisters of Charity have a marvelous mission, which never rests, always diving deeper into the divine mystery of salvation.

We are grateful for the opportunity to respond to the needs of our day in new and innovative ways.

The charts below depict the categories of Congregational income and outflow for Fiscal 2019.

On the Source side, Retirement Income provided 43.6 percent of Total Income, and includes support payments from the Sisters of Charity Charitable Trust, Social Security and Sisters’ pensions. Investment Income, which includes interest, dividends and realized gains, amounted to 20.6 percent of Total Income.

General Congregational Income amounted to 12.3 percent of Total Income and is primarily comprised of Sisters’ earnings, bequests and support from benefactors. Unrealized Gains on Investments amounted to 21.6 percent.

Other sources totaled 1.9 percent.

4

5

On the Use side, Retirement Related Expenses was the largest expense category at 55.4 percent, and includes costs associated with the care of our retired Sisters. Local House Expenses, comprised of total living expenses for Sisters living away from the Mount St. Joseph campus and incidental expenses for Sisters living independently at the Motherhouse, amounted to 13.1 percent of Total Expenses. The cost of maintaining Sisters of Charity facilities is reflected in Property Expenses, which totaled 12.8 percent of Total Expenses. Service Department Expenses, net, amounted to 8.8 percent of total costs and includes the unallocated costs of Shared Services such as Maintenance, Grounds, Finance, Human Resources and Information Services.

General Congregational Expenses, primarily comprised of administrative costs, legal and audit fees, insurance premiums and contributions, amounted to 10.0 percent of Total Expenses.

Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati, Ohio, Inc. Source and Use of Funds June 30, 2019 4

1

3

Source of Funds Retirement Income Unrealized Gains on Investments Investment Income General Congregational Income Other Income

1

3

2

2

1 2 3 4 5

5

43.57% 21.63% 20.61% 12.26% 1.93% 100.00%

1 2 3 4 5

Use of Funds Retirement Related Expenses 55.38% Local House Expenses 13.14% Property Expenses 12.76% General Congregational Expenses 9.96% Service Department Expenses, net 8.76% 100.00% 17

Education, Advocacy and Action

By Debbie Weber, OPJCC director

T

he mission of the Sisters of Charity Office of Peace, Justice and Care for Creation (OPJCC) is to move the work of justice through education, advocacy and action rooted in our Sisters of Charity (SC) charism, which calls us to be agents of change.

As a liaison to the SC Federation’s representative to the United Nations, Debbie has always been excited and honored to attend the annual SC Federation Leadership meetings. However, the June 2019 meeting was special. The first-ever Assembly of the Whole brought together Federation leaders, Sisters, Associates/Affiliates, justice representatives, liaisons to the NGO representative, communicators, Liaisons to the SC Federation NGO representative to the United Nations archivists, and guests. SC Federation gathered in June for the Assembly of the Whole. energy and love was palpable!

The office kicked off the Fiscal Year by “going deeper into Divine Mystery” at the Feast Day of St. Mary of Magdala in July 2018.

The prayer service in our Motherhouse chapel was moving, energetic, diverse, welcoming, and prayerful. The chapel was beautifully decorated; artist Tanya Torres gave us a call to action; attendees generously donated school supplies for St. Boniface School; and the SC choir, musicians and drummers stirred our senses.

Throughout the year, OPJCC Director Debbie Weber worked with Sisters in offering presentations on current issues. A woman from El Salvador and two women from Nicaragua helped us understand the horrific circumstances in their homelands as well as their experiences as fleeing migrants. Another presentation addressed homelessness in Cincinnati as well as the national crisis.

Single-payer health care was presented by a local physician. He helped Community members understand what single-payer health care is (and is not) and why he endorses it.

Ohio Issue 1 got on the November 2018 ballot in part by the petition signatures 18

of Cincinnati Sisters and Associates that were collected in May and June of that year. In October, two panel discussions helped Sisters and Associates understand Issue 1, also known as The Amendment to Reduce Penalties for Crimes of Obtaining, Possessing, and Using Illegal Drugs.

OPJCC staff, committee members and collaborators are grateful for the many opportunities to go deeper into divine mystery. We look forward to another year of moving the work of social and Earth justice in our city, state, nation and world.

Locally, Debbie continued her partnership with Mount St. Joseph University, mentoring and working with a Service Learning student. Kaitlyn focused on human trafficking, particularly convictions of traffickers. She also wrote an OPJCC column for Update, a publication for SC Sisters and Associates.

Nationally and internationally Debbie continued her collaborative work with social justice representatives from the Sisters of Charity Federation, Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) justice promoters, and the justice representatives of the Vincentian Family of North America.

OPJCC Director Debbie Weber (left) with artist Tanya Torres at the Mary of Magdala prayer service in July 2018 at the Motherhouse.

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Mary Magdalene, Our Lady of Fire

by Tanya Torres.

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1 9

Mission Impact

By S. Joan Elizabeth Cook

T

he past year saw exciting and challenging developments in the SC Corporation Board for Sponsored Ministries (CBSM) and our five Sponsored Ministries, DePaul Cristo Rey High School, Mount St. Joseph University, St. Joseph Home, Senior Care Corporation (Bayley), and Seton High School, as they continued to look to the future. In their deliberations they looked more deeply into the Divine Mystery of God’s love for us, for the people who serve in our Sponsored Ministries, and for those who are impacted by their service.

Board and senior staff members of our Sponsored Ministries gathered with members of the SC Leadership Council on October 24, 2018 for the biennial All Boards Retreat. This event, which took place at our Motherhouse, brought together approximately one hundred participants around the theme “Mission Impact.” Our keynote speaker was Jill Meyer, President and CEO of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. Jill, an alumna of Seton High School and Mount St. Joseph University, thanked the participants for enhancing and transforming the city of Cincinnati. She challenged us to use our common voice and effort to make a collective impact on our city.

Looking to the future is an essential aspect of our Sponsored Ministries.

It involves consideration of changing demographics, shifting government regulations, fluctuating funding sources, and evolving priorities. And underpinning the planning is a driving eagerness to carry forward the mission of the Sisters of 20

Charity. For the past two years, the mission focus has been on Care for All Creation in the midst of climate change, fragile living conditions for the at risk members of our society, and care for our vunerable Earth.

Each Sponsored Ministry took steps to address these concerns during the past year.

DePaul Cristo Rey High School (DPCR) DePaul Cristo Rey High School focused on its mission to educate young people whose greatest limitation is lack of financial resources. The school cared for all creation by focusing on three Gospel values: the first is to feed the hungry. The school is constructing an expanded facility with cafeteria and food preparation areas. It will also include classroom space; areas for student support including laundry facilities, a food pantry, a sick room, and offices for social workers and therapists; and also an expanded gymnasium and

fine arts space. The second Gospel value, to welcome the stranger, is evident in the welcoming, inclusive, supportive attitude of the all the members of the DPCR community. Students form friendships across the imaginary boundaries of race, religion, gender, language, and national origin. The adults demonstrate incredible amounts of flexibility, openness, generosity, and supportiveness with a spirit of mission and adventure. The third Gospel value is to love one another. Students and teachers participated in mission trips to urban, rural and Native American settings; served those in Cincinnati by their involvement in social ministries; and educated and empowered people around community-wide needs through the school’s Bruin Movement.

DePaul Cristo Rey celebrated a major milestone in May: the first five students from the original class graduated from college. The school’s Graduate Success Coordinator supports the alumni through

Construction began in 2018 on the student center/cafeteria/gymnasium at DePaul Cristo Rey High School.

I N T E RC O M

together the liberal arts and the practical, professional aspects of the curriculum.

This dual focus enhances graduates’ opportunities for job placements. All these steps mark the University’s determination to overcome the challenges that face higher education today: recruiting and retaining students, faculty and staff; strengthening alumni engagement; and continuing to stay abreast of the trends that affect the University’s life and planning.

Saint Joseph Home (SJH) Ground is broken for construction to begin on Mount St. Joseph University’s new environmentally friendly Recreation and Fitness Center.

college, working with the advancement department to give microgrants to students at risk of dropping out for financial reasons.

Toward that end, the campaign to increase the Graduate Success Fund to $4 million is the next important financial goal.

These successes come in answer to the forces of poverty that challenge students’ families. The school’s other significant challenge is the needs of the Corporate Work Study Program. That involves assisting students to become the region’s youngest professionals through ongoing training at school and at their work sites.

The organizations where the students work provide one third of the school’s revenue.

Mount St. Joseph University (MSJU) Mount St. Joseph University’s Transformation 2025 Strategic Plan looks forward to the University’s 100th anniversary in 2020 and beyond. Initiatives included steps to strengthen the Mount community’s commitment to its mission; for example, the New Mission Ambassadors Program recruits and retains students and promotes student faith and development.

In addition, Mater Dei Chapel and the A N N U A L R E P O RT 2 0 1 9

St. Joseph statue in the Quadrangle received their first major renovation since the campus opened in 1962. Ground was broken and construction began on the new environmentally friendly Recreation and Fitness Center that will enhance campus opportunities for fitness and healthy living.

New opportunities for staff members included management training sessions and a merit-based performance review system.

Activities that focused on Care for All Creation included tuition scholarships for DPCR graduates, ongoing efforts to implement Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ by caring for the environment, service learning projects and mission endeavors both locally and in New Orleans, weekly prayer sessions in response to the sexual abuse crisis, and enhancements to University policies to ensure the protection of all in the University community.

These initiatives support the University’s strong commitment to the values of the Sisters of Charity, as they focus on leadership among all the members of the Mount community. Efforts to collaborate among various parts of the University bring

Saint Joseph Home took steps to deepen its mission to create a home for adults and children with developmental disabilities, complex support needs, and dependence on wheelchairs. These steps included respite services for individuals who live at home, a second community home for four residents, and a new Day Program in Sharonville in addition to the one that operates in Blue Ash. In support of Care for all Creation, the Green Space that was launched at the end of last fiscal year added to the serenity and well-being of residents, families and staff members who took advantage of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, which was previously inaccessible to many of them. The Home continued to install LED lighting, and to recycle as much as possible.

The Home diversified its expert state-of-the-art holistic care to include serving adults (in addition to infants and children) on ventilators, as well as the new Sharonville Day Program. And the board and senior staff members continue to lead on a state-wide basis in response to evolving needs and changing legislation.

They spoke at two Bridges2Equality rallies in Columbus, took leadership in support of the levy campaign for People for Developmental Disabilities Services, 21

SC Corporation Board for Sponsored Ministries (CBSM)

and continued to serve as significant members of the Values and Faith Alliance, especially during the transition to a new administration in the state of Ohio.

Senior Care Corporation (Bayley) Bayley continued to carry forward the SC commitment to Care for All Creation by focusing broadly on various aspects of creation, especially within the Bayley community. This involved enhancing relations between staff and residents, creating programs to strengthen employees’ skills, and maintaining its 5 Star Rating for resident care and family satisfaction. It also involved presenting the latest revision of the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services that was published in summer, 2018.

Projects that look to the future are the growing Home Services Program and the April opening of Bayley Café for lunch in the Fitness Center. In addition to several upgrades to the facility, a market research study recommended that Bayley expand the opportunities for independent living, both at the current site and at an additional location. This expansion will accommodate the growing number of people looking for this kind of living arrangement.

Seton High School (SHS) Seton completed Phase Three of its building renovations and upgrades in time for the 2019-2020 school year. A new HVAC system, energy-efficient lights and new windows and roof will significantly enhance the air quality in the building and substantially decrease the energy costs. In addition, Seton students have the opportunity to study environmental issues including global warming, renewable energy resources, the local watershed, 22

Six acres in the northwest portion of the 33-acre campus of St. Joseph Home were transformed into The Green Space, offering a quarter-mile walking trail and a sensory lane, an enclosed picnic shelter, memorial garden, wetland-like areas and scenic overlooks.

and combined sewer systems in the Environmental Science course. Additionally students are encouraged to care for the environment through the Eco Club and activities of the House Government System and Senior Project, while the Saints for Life Club promotes respect for life.

These initiatives demonstrate the broad parameters of Seton’s Care for All Creation.

All these learning activities support Seton’s mission to provide an exceptional Catholic education to young women centered in the values and charism of the Sisters of Charity.

Religious celebrations and student retreats underpin the mission on an everyday basis and touch the lives of everyone in the Seton community. Seton’s competitive athletic program and thriving fine arts offerings enhance the opportunities for students to grow holistically.

The CBSM is the organization through which the Sisters of Charity oversee and encourage our Sponsored Ministries. Each Sister of Charity on the board is the liaison to one of our Sponsored Ministries. In that capacity she serves on that organization’s Board of Directors and on several strategic committees.

The CBSM meets six times a year to study and strategize around emerging trends and needs and to keep abreast of the activities and needs of our Sponsored Ministries. Three times a year the CEOs of our Sponsored Ministries gather with CBSM to network and to identify ways the five Sponsored Ministries can collaborate in strengthening and deepening their efforts to carry forward the mission of the Sisters of Charity.

As I come to the end of my eight years as Chair of the Corporation Board for Sponsored Ministries, I wish to acknowledge the many people who have carried forward the mission of the Sisters of Charity in our Sponsored Ministries with their dedicated, generous, professional, caring service. Those who serve on CBSM: Sisters Barbara Davis (DPCR), Mary Ann Flannery (MSJU), Franette Hyc (SJH), Annette Paveglio (SHS), Christine Rody (Bayley), Tim Moller (Sisters of Charity CFO) and assistant Diane Geiser; CEOs Jeanne Bessette, OSF (DPCR), Kathleen Ciarla (SHS), Dan Connors (SJH), Adrienne Walsh (Bayley), and H. James Williams (MSJU); the chairs and members of the Boards of Directors; staff members, volunteers, donors and other friends too numerous to mention have worked tirelessly to serve their ministerial communities. It has been a privilege and a joy to serve with each one, to form friendships, to share significant milestones with our Sponsored Ministries, and to look together to a hope-filled future.

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R E AC H IN G DE E P LY IN TO

the Needs of the World

By S. Louise Lears

P

ope Francis reminds us to open our arms and hearts ever wider and reach deeply into the needs of the world. One expression of our commitment to share resources is our Emergency Fund, supported totally by donations. Sisters and Associates can draw on the Emergency Fund to help a family or individual with funeral expenses, rent, utilities, or other immediate needs. For example, a Sister requested funds for a woman who is the sole wage earner in the family and whose car requires immediate repairs.

f “To all people of good will who are working for social justice: never tire of working for a more just world, marked by greater solidarity.�

(Pope Francis, The Spirit of St. Francis, Franciscan Publishing, 2015, p. 131.)

Those who are affected by hurricanes, floods, typhoons, and tornadoes need immediate relief as well as long-term restoration. In this past year, tornadoes swept through Dayton, Ohio and surrounding areas, causing numerous injuries and at least one death, devastating hundreds of buildings and trees. Our Sisters who live and minister in the Dayton area directed us to the appropriate relief agencies. Hurricane Michael was the third most intense Atlantic hurricane to make landfall (Florida and the Carolinas) in the contiguous United States. Our Federation Sisters in South Carolina connected us with organizations providing direct assistance. Typhoon Ompong battered the Philippines, affecting more than 6 million people. One of our Sisters from the Philippines helped us identify relief operations for victims of this powerful storm.

retreats for women who are homeless and in recovery from addiction.

Witness to Innocence is a national organization by and for death row exonerees and their loved ones who seek to abolish the death penalty.

Shiloh Farmer’s Market offers easy access to those using EBT cards; EBT is like a bank debit card that holds food assistance benefits.

Little Sisters of the Immaculate Heart in Uganda seek to end water and food scarcity for their primary school and orphanage and to shelter young girls forced into marriage.

Daniel Comboni Community Clinic celebrated its 25th anniversary of offering health and education services to the people of Mixco, Guatemala and surrounding areas.

U.S. Catholic Sisters Against Human Trafficking is a faithbased national network that educates and advocates for an end to modern-day slavery.

We Sisters and Associates continue to reach deeply into the world, praying for the wisdom to know the needs of our sisters and brothers.

During the season of Advent, a time of preparation for celebrating the birth of Jesus, Sisters made hundreds of individual donations to nonprofits of their choice. The Congregation then matched those donations in order to maximize the impact on the mission and outreach of the receiving organizations.

The Sisters of Charity are committed to collaborating with others for the sake of justice. We desire to never do alone what we can do better with others. Below are a few of the many nonprofit organizations we supported and partnered with during this past year: Esperanza Threads is a social enterprise that teaches unemployed and underemployed immigrants and refugees the art of industrial sewing.

Ignatian Spirituality Project provides peaceful and hope-filled A N N U A L R E P O RT 2 0 1 9

The community of Mixco, Guatemala, came together in May to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Daniel Comboni Community Clinic, opened in 1995 with the help of Comboni Priest, the late Father Bill Jansen, and Sister of Charity of Cincinnati Sarah Mulligan. For a quarter of a century the clinic has provided health and education services and programs to the people of Mixco and surrounding areas.

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Incarnating the Divine Mystery

By S. Patricia Wittberg

The Mission of the Seton Enablement Fund Committee is to assist the Congregation in living its Mission by providing loans and investments to community-based organizations that may not qualify for conventional financing as they serve the social justice needs of people living in poverty.

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they, their staff, and a corps of volunteers tend to 33 residents suffering from mental illness, mental or physical disabilities and other types of poverty. In addition, they also operate a day care facility for the same population.

Recently, the original St. Charles Lwanga home burned down, and the 10 men living there had to be relocated. The Seton Enablement Fund’s loan will help the Sisters expand a newly purchased replacement house to make it more suitable for the low-income population they serve.

e are all called to The Mercy Loan Fund plans to use the Seton Enablement Fund loan for relending incarnate the Divine to nonprofit and socially responsible developers who build and preserve affordable Mystery daily in our housing throughout the United States. lives, wherever and whatever we do – thus helping bring about income families and individuals. MLF the Gospel vision of the Reign of God. will use the Seton Enablement Fund loan Like the Mercy Loan fund, Capital for One way the Sisters of Charity do this for relending to nonprofit and socially Change (CfC) strives to provide accessible is through the Seton Enablement Fund, responsible developers who build and fi nancing to low- and moderate-income which celebrates its 40th anniversary this preserve affordable housing throughout the populations, in order to aid in the creation year. Since our beginning in 1979, the United States. of affordable housing in Connecticut, an Fund has made 403 loans, lending a total of Since 1971, the Metropolitan area where such housing is becoming more $30,687,500 to organizations serving those Economic Development Agency (MEDA) and more scarce. CfC also provides lowwho lack access to housing, employment, helped start 550 minority businesses, and interest loans to make housing more energy credit, or education. In Fiscal Year 2019, provided support to many already-started efficient and supports home ownership for the Fund made six loans in the areas of ones. Collectively, MEDA’s clients employ those who could otherwise not afford to affordable housing, minority business 6,000 workers and earn $1 billion in annual purchase a house. development, and the care of low-income revenue. The Seton Enablement Fund’s elderly. Four of these loans are described Each of these loans, plus the 400 others loan has enabled MEDA to create loans below. which the Seton Enablement Fund has for minority business owners who wish to made during its four decades of existence, Housing is becoming more and more expand their businesses and hire workers. help to answer Christ’s call to feed the expensive, compared to the amount of The Little Sisters of St. Francis came hungry, shelter the homeless, and care for money families earn. Most U.S. cities have from Uganda in the 1990s and began the stranger. We at the SEF are both proud a shortage of affordable housing units that St. Charles Lwanga House, an assisted and humbled by what the Congregation runs into the tens of thousands. The Mercy living facility for low-income seniors can accomplish through these loans, and we Loan Fund (MLF) provides real estate and others living on the margins. They look forward to the coming year as another loans to nonprofit and socially responsible now operate six houses or centers in opportunity to incarnate the Mystery of developers of affordable housing, both the Williamsburg, Virginia, area where God’s reign with communities in need. single- and multi-family units, for low24

I N T E RC O M

SETON ENABLEMENT FUND

Statistics and Dollars Allocated as of June 30, 2019 Total Loans/Investments

Locations of Loans/Investments

Millions

Committed Funds Distributions Low Income Housing Community Development, Co-Ops, Land Trusts Business Ventures Other

25 17 23 7

Total Current Loans and Deposits as of 6/30/19

72

SEF Committee Members for Fiscal Year 2018-2019

S. Nancy Bramlage S. Noreen Ellison Assoc. Patrice Harty Assoc. Catherine Herzog S. Sandy Howe S. Andrea Koverman S. Jackie Leech

Assoc. Barry Mersmann S. Jean Miller Tim Moller S. Ruth Ann Rody S. Clarann Weinert S. Pat Wittberg

A N N U A L R E P O RT 2 0 1 9

Since Inception of the Program (1979) Cumulative Number of Loans/Investments = 403 Cumulative Dollars Loaned/Invested = $30,687,500

Loans/Investments for FY 2019 • Capital for Change #2 • El Buen Socio • Franciscan Brethren of St. Philip (St. Charles Lwanga House) • Mercy Loan Fund • Metropolitan Economic Development Agency (MEDA) • Thunder Valley CDC

Arkansas Arizona California Canada Colorado Connecticut Florida Illinois Indiana Kentucky Maine Massachusetts Mexico Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Nebraska New Mexico New York North Carolina Pennsylvania Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Rhode Island South Carolina Switzerland Texas Vermont Virginia Washington Washington, D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Zambia

2 1 1 1 3 1 1 1 2 2 1 1 1 4 1 2 1 7 7 1 1 9 1 3 1 2 1 3 1 1 1 3 1 2 1

There are loans that are domiciled in the U.S. but serve foreign countries including: Ecuador, Peru, Malawi, South Africa, Guatemala, Nicaragua among others.

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Weaving Together Unstoppable Charity: Federation Members Gather for Momentous Event

I

t was an unprecedented event. In June 2019 more than 550 participants of the Sisters of Charity Federation convened in Chicago, Illinois, for the first-ever Assembly of the Whole. They came from 29 states and seven countries and represented 14 congregations as either members, Associates, staff or guests. Their hope for the four-day gathering – to weave together unstoppable charity by experiencing the grace and power of the Charity mission/charism while recognizing and sharing expressions for the future. The following two pages are filled with images that capture the spirit of this inspiring and hope-filled event.

S. Lois Jean Goettke (left) was one of many Federation members volunteering to provide the music throughout the gathering.

S. Joan Cook, Federation president at the time, leads the procession into the Assembly of the Whole.

(From left) Sisters Monica Gundler and Georgia Kitt reunite during the opening evening.

Sisters from each congregation wove together their colored banners along the front stage.

Assembly of the Whole participants enjoy the music of Harmony, Hope and Healing during the Saturday evening banquet.

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Associate Carolyn Davis enjoys the opportunity to meet Associates from the various SC Federation congregations.

INTERCOM

Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati and Associates traveled to Chicago, Illinois, in June 2019 for the Federation’s first-ever Assembly of the Whole.

Intercom is the magazine of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati. This apostolic Catholic women’s religious community exists to carry out the Gospel of Jesus Christ through service and prayer in the world.

Approximately 255 Sisters are joined in their mission by 200 Associates (lay women and men). Sisters, using their professional talents as ministers of education, health care, social services and environmental justice, live and minister in 19 U.S. dioceses and in two foreign countries. They also sponsor institutions to address education, health care and social service needs, with particular concern for direct service to the poor.

Intercom Staff

“These times beguile us with more questions than answers but we Sisters of Charity know the answer is Love. One large life circulating through all … evolving in harmony with the Becoming God.”

Editor

Erin Reder Graphic Design/Layout

Michelle Bley Director of Communications

S. Georgia Kitt

S. Peggy O’Neill, SC Convent Station

Executive Council Liaison

S. Mary Bookser Advisory Board Members: Fr. Bill Morton, SC Associate, served as celebrant for Mass on Friday of the gathering.

Letters to the editor, articles and photos are welcome. The staff reserves the right to edit for space and readability. Make submissions to: Communications Office 5900 Delhi Road Mount St. Joseph, OH 45051 Phone: 513-347-5447 Fax: 513-347-5467 Email: erin.reder@srcharitycinti.org Subscriptions: $15 per year

S. Louise Lears weaves together her Cincinnati ribbon with other congregations to create the table centerpiece.

Fourteen SC Associates traveled to Chicago in June to take part in the Federation’s Assembly of the Whole.

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Veronica Buchanan S. Mary Ann Flannery S. Tracy Kemme S. Joyce Richter Debbie Weber Vicki Welsh

S. Mary Caroline Marchal offers her perspective during one of the group discussions.

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6 The Spirit-led days of Chapter 2019 asked Community members to Venture Deeper into Divine Mystery.

S. Whitney Schieltz (back row, center) began her time of Apostolic Novitiate in August 2018.

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EarthConnection donated more than 900 pounds of fresh produce from its garden to the Good Samaritan Health Center in Price Hill (Cincinnati) from the 2018 growing season.