Published by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden, Pennsylvania
spring 2016
Serving God
and the dear neighbor Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
without distinction
page 1
B ✛ leadership team letter
bringing mercy to our neighbors
About the cover We welcomed
Leadership Team members, from left, are Sisters Sharon Costello, Barbara Czyrnik, Diane Cauley and Mary Pellegrino.
more than 300 guests to our
Dear Neighbor,
Chapel for a public
The quality of mercy is not strain’ d - Shakespeare
concert with beloved composer Dan Schutte. Story begins on Page 4.
page 2
This line from Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice” comes to mind as we consider the state of our world during this Jubilee Year of Mercy. Shakespeare weaves threads of deceit, revenge and religious intolerance leading to this famous soliloquy in which a woman, disguised as a man, reminds the highest court in the land that true justice has no meaning without the temperance of mercy – that the quality of mercy is not strained when extended to those most in need of healing and truth. Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
Inside this Issue
The Easter season is filled with occasions and reminders of the ultimate fruit of mercy – new and resurrected life. The scriptures of the season tell of so many of our ancestors in faith whose lives were turned inside out and upside down by an encounter with the risen Christ who answered hate and intolerance with love and forgiveness and who offered peace in place of fear and anxiety. Our faith assures us that Jesus already has triumphed over hate and intolerance, fear and anxiety, and yes, even death, so these things need no longer have power over us unless we give it. Through your kindness, prayers and generosity (as shown in this annual report), you have helped to make the hope of Jesus’ resurrection and new life real for so many of our dear neighbors. The names of our benefactors and all of our unnamed dear neighbors are for us like a Litany of Saints whom we honor and cherish in this season of new life. There is much in our world today to strain the quality of our mercy. There’s terrorism and violence, political stalemates and ideologies and the tyranny of our own fears. And yet, we know that when we cooperate with the healing hope of the resurrection, with you, and with others to bring mercy and healing to our neighbors and our world, that the quality of our mercy will not be strained. In this Year of Mercy, let’s continue to partner with one another in bringing the spiritual and corporal works of mercy to a waiting world.
Leadership Team
‘Sing A New Song’
4
An Open House
7
Signs of Hope
8
Advancing The Gospel
10
Congratulations!
11
Reconnecting
12
Development Letter
14
In Loving Memory
15
Annual Report
16
Sharing Our Bounty
22
Volunteer Couple
25
Stroll Through Time
27
Barbara Hecht – Editor Phone: 724-869-6566 Email: bhecht@stjoseph-baden.org Dear Neighbor Contributors Barbara Hecht Director of Communications Alison Lucci Communications Specialist Sister Karen Stoila, CSJ Director of Development Sister Gerrie Grandpre, CSJ Staff Photographer Sister Ruth Bearer, CSJ Editorial Assistant Sister Norma Bandi, CSJ Proofreader Barb Sterchele, Omega Design Group Design/Layout Permission must be granted for reprinting articles that appear in the magazine.
Connect with us! stjoseph-baden.org
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
page 3
S
✛ year of consecrated life
‘sing a new song’ Beloved composer stirs hearts, souls
More than 300 guests welcomed beloved composer Dan Schutte to the “heart of our home” for an uplifting and inspiring afternoon of prayerful song and reflection in celebration of the Year of Consecrated Life in the Chapel. Many said they particularly enjoyed the opportunity to sing along with Dan as he played guitar and piano and appreciated how he creatively wove story-telling into his music. For Dan, the concert on September 13 in the Motherhouse Chapel was like a spiritual homecoming.
page 4
“It was like returning to a place that I’d saved somewhere deep in my memory, a place of great peace and holy people, a place greatly blessed by God and alive with the Spirit,” he said. The prayerful celebration was a homecoming, too, for Elaine Steich, who stepped into the Chapel for the first time and was reminded of the “beautiful faith” her parents instilled in her. “I wanted to attend the event to enjoy the music and see the composer who fills my heart and mind with song on Sundays,” she said. “In addition, I was treated to a joyful remembrance experience with my Dad, who has passed away. My Dad, Joe, was a longtime leader of my home parish’s folk Mass music group and was the weekly prayer group leader. Dan’s performance reminded me of my childhood when I listened to my Dad practice Dan’s music and then share his talents at Mass.” Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
page 5
see a face to go along with the music and to see the passion with which he plays the guitar and piano.”
Steeped in sacred scripture and Ignatian spirituality, Dan’s music has anchored people of faith for generations. He is one of the best-known and most influential composers of Catholic music for liturgy in the English-speaking world. Some of his most celebrated songs, such as “Here I Am, Lord,” “City of God,” and “Sing a New Song,” are from his years of collaboration with the St. Louis Jesuits. Dan invited audience members “to take a journey to the God of hearts” as pilgrims who are universally called to holiness. He creatively interspersed songs with reflections on Pope Francis, Ignatian spirituality, the Gospel, and his own life. Dozens of local parish music directors, choir members and cantors were attracted to the event because of the influence Dan’s music has had on them in their music ministries. Regina Kemena, who cantors at Our Lady of Fatima in Aliquippa, said, “Dan’s music speaks to my soul. It is so meaningful. It was so nice to page 6
Joy and Steve Calvo, choir members at Sts. John and Paul in Franklin Park, said they were both amazed and deeply moved by Dan’s performance, not only as an outstanding musician but also as a captivating story teller. Sister Stella Cronauer accompanied 10 guests, including the pastor and music director, from Immaculate Conception Parish in Fairmont, Va., where she is a pastoral associate. For Sister Rosemarie Schwartz, music and drama teacher at Sacred Heart Elementary School in Pittsburgh, the weekend was a “wonderful experience” because she had the opportunity to play with Dan the previous day, which was the Golden Jubilee celebration. Because Dan does not travel with his guitar, Sister Rosie was honored to offer him her cherished acoustic Martin D-28, a high school graduation gift from her parents in 1974, to play at the concert. In addition to our Sisters, the pews were filled with a broad representation of men and women religious from other communities. Among them was Sister Mary Christopher Moore,
O
Provincial Minster of the Felician Sisters of North America, who summed up her experience:
“The Dan Schutte
event was more than a concert as he repeated several times. It was a time of peaceful, prayerful re flection
accompanied by beautiful melodies and soul-
stirring words. A lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon!”
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
O ✛ year of consecrated life
opening our home, hearts
Greeters at Gilbert Street are, bottom from left, Sisters Nancy Kline, Patti Rossi and Honora McCawley; top from left, Sisters Judith Kenaan, Dolores Partsch and Janis Franklin.
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
In celebration of the Year of Consecrated Life, Sisters who live and serve in the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese opened their home at 812 Gilbert Street in Johnstown to local parishioners following weekend Masses in mid-August. Sisters warmly welcomed nearly 40 guests, ranging from children to seniors, for conversation, home-baked goods, and history lessons about the Sisters’ roots and ministries in the diocese. One young mother, with her young children in tow, shared her experience as a counselor with the Sisters at the kitchen table and was eager to learn about the Sisters’ service in the community. Sisters were stationed in rooms where large boards were conversation starters. Pictorial boards illustrated the Sisters’ roots and contributions to the diocese and their current ministries. As they left, guests were given a Maxim magnet and accompanying reflection as keepsakes.
Sisters who live and serve in the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese are: Sister Janis Franklin Social Worker Catholic Charities Sister Judith Kenaan Associate Catholic Chaplain Ebensburg Center Sister Nancy Kline Chaplain Conemaugh Memorial Hospital Sister Genevieve Martineck Associate Catholic Chaplain Ebensburg Center Sister Honora McCawley Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) instructor St. John Co-Cathedral Presenter St. Joseph Spirituality Center Sister Dolores Partsch Adult Literacy Instructor Cambria County Prison and Library Sister Jane Stephen Rosko Lector, Eucharistic Minister Our Lady of the Alleghenies Member Auxiliary of Lilly Fire Department Sister Patti Rossi Director Altoona-Johnstown Mission Office Sister Carol Ann Ziecina Coordinator for Spiritual Care Conemaugh Health System page 7
M ✛ justice
modeling their parents From Kentucky to El Salvador, siblings carry hope
Following a shared trip to El Salvador to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the martyrdom of four churchwomen, Sister Sarah Crotty and her sister recently reflected on the life-shaping impact of their upbringing, which began in Erlanger, Kentucky. In the Crotty family of five children, mother and father, who were knit together by their shared faith, embraced Catholic social teachings and modeled how to practice it in their home, parish and community. “My parents, but especially my father was rabid about justice. Most especially in his time (1960s and ‘70s) and in his work, he saw racial discrimination and it made him angry. Within his work, he did what he could to promote equality. And my mother treated everyone the same. She enjoyed and cared for and about everyone without distinction,” recalls Sister Sarah. Her older sister, Liz, remembers praying for the people in Vietnam regularly at meal times, inviting African American children into their middle-class neighborhood to play four-square and hopscotch, tutoring youth in reading at the Boys Club, and teaching swimming to physically disabled children. All was
Liz and Sister Sarah page 8
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
encouraged by her parents, and all took place while Liz herself was a child moving into the teen-aged years – from ages 7 to 15. Liz of Charlottesville, Virginia, is a nurse practitioner at a rural community health clinic. With encouragement from Sister Sarah, Liz traded a “factory-style healthcare clinic” for a community clinic. “She was right, I am now in a culture of care I feel good about and look forward to growing myself and this clinic,” acknowledges Liz, who stepped into the new position nearly a year ago. She continues to volunteer with Remote Area Medical in southwest Virginia and participates in local health fairs which draw thousands of residents from the surrounding Appalachian mountains and beyond for free medical and dental care. “We have the same issues as developing countries in many areas here. Inner cities, the Rust Belt, and rural communities all have many unmet needs,” she says. Sister Sarah also is trying to respond to the many unmet needs of those who are economically disadvantaged through her ministry at Focus on Renewal, a comprehensive multi-service non-profit organization that serves the Sto-Rox community, just southwest of Pittsburgh. Since 2006, she has served as Associate Director of Focus on Renewal, which works to empower the development of spirit, mind and body of individuals so that they may live their lives in a dignified and full human way. Both Sister Sarah and Liz were part of a delegation of 117 women religious who traveled in November to El Salvador through a program sponsored by SHARE El Salvador and the Leadership Conference of Women Religious. During the weeklong stay, the delegation visited sites and heard first-hand testimonies by people who knew the martyred women who were assassinated by the Salvadoran military for their advocacy on behalf of refugees and the poor. Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
The delegates also visited the site where Archbishop Oscar Romero was martyred in 1980. They explored root causes of migration to the U.S., learned of current challenges impoverished communities face, including increasing violence, and witnessed ways in which grassroots groups are organizing to build a better future. What lingers in Liz’s memory of San Antonio Los Ranches is a cornucopia of joyful senses: The hospitality of the Salvadorans at the hotel . . . the taste of puposa . . . fireworks . . . kids and dogs running happily and freely . . . women selling embroidered shirts . . . homemade flags waving . . . music blaring “Ode to Joy” . . . a candlelight shrine for the martyred women. . . , and, notably, the absence of barbed wire and semi-automatic guns on the shoulders of men. “The people and the town of San Antonio Los Ranchos impressed me as the place where the Salvadorans persevered in their vision and hope for a beloved, just community and are trying to live their dream there. There was much to lament in El Salvador but this place has hope and joy,” Liz says. The signs of hope were palpable to Sister Sarah as well. “Despite the trauma, injustice and atrocities they have experienced, the people we encountered were full of hope and joy and love,” she says. “They continue in poverty to fight the good fight. They continue to call and act for justice. They work to transform a society that has continued to attempt to degrade, dehumanize and silence them.” While in El Salvador, Sister Sarah says that she glimpsed, in a very tangible way, the Paschal Mystery. “In life there is a rhythm of living and dying, of suffering and joy. Out of suffering, out of death, comes new life. This is still mystery to me. Why is it so? How does it happen? But it seems that almost because of the deep suffering, El Salvador is a place of profound beauty – it is the profound beauty of the human spirit that continually rises again.” page 9
A ✛ leadership
advancing the Gospel National organization recognizes two of our Sisters When a national organization
representing Catholic sisters convened this past summer, two
of our Sisters were Sister Mary
invited to center stage for special recognition.
Sister Mary Pellegrino, who serves on the Leadership Team, was voted in as president-elect of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious page 10
(LCWR) by the nearly 800 members attending the group’s annual meeting in Houston, Texas. Sister Janet Mock, who completed a three-year term as executive director of LCWR in December 2014, was honored as the recipient of the 2015 Outstanding Leadership Award from the organization. Both humbled and honored by her election, Sister Mary expressed “great enthusiasm and gratitude for being part of evolving religious life at this time in history.” She said, “We are living in unprecedented times faced with unprecedented choices, and the outcomes of which will influence and shape the future of all of creation. I think that within this context we are both learners and leaders, and it will be important that we continue to discern the most appropriate use of our moral influence in service to the Gospel.” Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
Congratulations, Sisters!
Sister Janet
Sister Mary is serving a second fiveyear term on the Leadership Team as Congregational Moderator. In her acceptance remarks, Sister Janet extended particular gratitude to the Baden Sisters. “My community, small as it is, has always had a heart for mission that is extraordinary – from China, to the First Nations, from Brazil to Liberia, from Jamaica to Nicaragua – stretching us always to see beyond ourselves,” she said. “And yet these women will sit for hours and chat and play cards or Scrabble, talk politics, laugh and cry and share the state of their hearts. They are truly wonderful and it is among them that I am most at home.” Sister Janet, whose leadership roles have crossed local and national levels, also delivered a keynote address, “Surprised by Joy: Springs of the Great Deep Illuminating Religious Life,” at the annual assembly. In September 2011, Sister Janet assumed the position of interim director of the LCWR, and was appointed executive director in April 2012. Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
Sister Pat Phillips, right, and Gallitzin Commons, received a Platinum Award for “Excellence in Resident Services” from the Professional Affordable Housing Management Association. Sister Pat manages Gallitzin Commons, an annex to the Motherhouse that provides independent living space for Sisters. Sister Patti Young, left, plans and coordinates many of the events and opportunities available to Gallitzin Common residents. Sister Janice Vanderneck and Casa San Jose received the “Seeds of Justice Award” during the 27th Annual Harvest Dinner Celebration. As Executive Director of Casa San Jose, Sister Janice accepted the award, which is given annually to people or organizations that make extraordinary contributions in advancing Just Harvest’s mission to end hunger and poverty. Sister Donna Marie Beck was recognized at the annual Young at Heart gala for her significant role in taking the music therapy program at Villa St. Joseph from concept to creation. Sister Donna Marie is a Life Time Achievement Award winner of the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA). Upon her retirement from Duquesne University, she was inducted into the Century Club of Distinguished Duquesne University Alumni. page 11
R ✛ memories
reconnecting after decades Sr. Fran welcomes ‘first grader’ and her family
Kelly (Vavro) Malena recalls her firstgrade teacher, Sister Frances Hurley, as a “wonderful teacher and a loving person” at St. Bernadette School in Monroeville. Kelly also remembers the rocking chair and “hug rug” that comforted the children in Sister Fran’s classroom – and her family’s annual trips to the Sisters of St. Joseph Harvest Festival. “Each year after we were finished at the Harvest Festival, we would go on a tour of the chapel, the beautiful shrines, Stations of the Cross, and cemetery,” Kelly wrote in an e-mail. Now living in Greenville, South Carolina, Kelly wanted to re-trace the journey of her cherished childhood memories and share them with her husband, Scott, and their two young children, Clare, 3, and Kevin, 18 months. While on a recent family vacation, Kelly re-connected with Sister Fran in Baden who was thrilled to reminisce with her, catch up with her story and meet her family.
page 12
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
Serving as hostess and tour guide, Sister Fran walked the family through the Motherhouse with visits to Sister Fran’s local community, the chapel, the parlors, and statues, such as the one that depicts the “Death of Joseph” at the convent’s original entrance. A brisk and sunny October afternoon offered a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely stroll on the grounds where Kelly was drawn to the Stations of the Cross and the refurbished Grotto where she pointed out the shrine of Mary to her daughter. The stop at the cemetery was particularly meaningful to the family because Kelly’s great-great aunt was Sister Euphrasia Condron who died in 1965 at age 78. Sister Euphrasia, who taught in 13 schools in the dioceses of Pittsburgh Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
and Altoona-Johnstown, returned to Baden in 1952 when she lost vision in both eyes. Shortly thereafter, she took Braille lessons, learned to operate a Braille writer, and eventually helped produce Braille books and talking books for blind children. In an undated newspaper clipping glued into a family Bible, Sister Euphrasia is quoted as saying: “I could scarcely wait to get home from work to study my Braille lessons. My hands get itchy for the Braille writer . . . . I believe that God led me into it, and since He has been so good to me, I must do all I can to help the blind.” Kelly expressed her appreciation for the background on Sister Euphrasia from the Archives and noted in her email before her visit: “My grandma remembered all of the beautiful sites from her childhood when she visited her aunt, Sister Euphrasia, in the convent.” Kelly says that she hopes that the visit to Baden is the first of many
family vacations that will include a Catholic dimension for their children. “This was all so special. What an absolute delight to see Kelly after all of these years and to meet her lovely family,” says Sister Fran, who could still recognize a glimmer of the 6-year-old student from the 1988-89 class in the young mother. And what about that “hug rug”? Sister Fran, formerly known as Sister Robertine and who taught first graders for nearly 50 years with 28 years at St. Bernadette, explains: “I was always aware of young children often being shy and sometimes uncomfortable, so my classrooms always had a hug rug. I told the children if they ever felt lonely or just felt like they needed a hug, they could step on the rug.” While there was no classroom rug for the Malena family to step on, Sister Fran was generous with hugs of joy and gratitude. page 13
D ✛ development letter
dear partners in mission How can we thank God enough for all the joy we feel because of you?
1 Thes.3:9
As I write this letter of gratitude for your gifts to the Sisters during fiscal year 2015, I want you to know that the quote from St. Paul to the Sister Karen Stoila, CSJ Thessalonians is felt by every Sister of St. Joseph of Baden. The year 2015 was a painful year in many ways in the history of the world, especially as the refugee crisis and senseless violence were our constant reality. But in the midst of a world where values seem upside-down and inside-out, there will always be the presence of God to call us to fuller and deeper life.
page 14
With your generosity and willingness to share in our life and our ministry, we are able to remind others about the fruits of the Holy Spirit - charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness - alive in our hearts and present in our world in the midst of suffering. Many of you saw the beautiful photo of Sister Janet Mock with Pope Francis on the cover of our last magazine. Both of them have a smile that brings the light of Christ into our midst. Sister Janet shared some reflections with our Sisters at the installation of our current Leadership Team. Her words carry so much meaning for us as Sisters and for our future. Because you have done so much to help us continue to live in the present and build up the reign of God now and into the future, I share them with you. They express what you Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
Save the date of June 6th for our 18th annual Golf Classic at Sunnehanna Country Club in Johnstown. As a golfer or a sponsor, you can help us “drive to a million” in cumulative fund-raising dollars since the golf outing began. This year, we hope to reach our milliondollar mark. For more information, e-mail Sister Karen Stoila at kstoila@stjoseph-baden.org or call her at 724-869-6592.
In loving memory Sister Mildred (Ildephonse) Boeh, 102 March 4, 2016
mean to us as our family, friends and generous benefactors: Every religious community has a lens through which we read the Gospel. For Sisters of St. Joseph, we articulate that lens as the great love of God that draws all creation into one. We said publicly that we believe that (our) way of approaching life is not limited to those who make profession as a Sister of St. Joseph. Those who associate formally with us, those who are drawn to partner with us in ministry, those who work with us do so because they too are attracted by God’s great love. For Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
these people, their work is not just a job; it is a way of life that gives what they do profound meaning. When we look through the lens that is the great love of God and love of neighbor without distinction, we see you and your goodness to the Sisters of St. Joseph. You have added great love and great meaning to the manner in which we care for our Sisters and our dear neighbors. Thank you for sharing so generously in our life and our mission. Sister Karen Stoila, CSJ Director of Development 724-869-6592 kstoila@stjoseph-baden.org
Sister Elizabeth (Regis Marie) Brown, 79 February 16, 2016 Sister Donna Marie Tahaney, 80 February 6, 2016 Sister Teresa Katherine Cheslock, 90 January 15, 2016 Sister Mary Eileen (Lucian) Mackaness, 90 January 11, 2016 Sister Mary Louise (Aurelia) Collins, 80 October 11, 2015 Sister Patricia (Sebastian) Tittler, 78 August 27, 2015 To read more about our Sisters or to make a memorial contribution, please visit our website at www.stjoseph-baden.org page 15
✛ annual report to donors
sources of contributions July 1, 2014 – June 30, 2015
July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015
$550,000 $500,000 $450,000 $400,000 $350,000 $300,000 $250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 Gifts from Individuals
Restricted Donations for New Boiler
Planned Gifts
Sisters' Patrimony Gifts
Grants
Commemorative Gifts
Special Events
In Kind Gifts
National Religious Retirements Collection
2014-2015 Gifts from Individuals (Major Gifts, Appeals, Newsletters, Unsolicited) $489,403 Restricted Donations for New Boiler $42,263 Planned Gifts (Wills, Trusts) $92,188 Sisters’ Patrimony Gifts $279,413 Grants (Corporations, Foundations, Organizations) $185,753 Commemorative Gifts (In Memory, In Honor) $69,737 Special Events (Golf Classic, Lottery Calendar, MGHS Brunch, Spring Luncheon) $185,590 In Kind Gifts (Golf Classic) $18,577 National Religious Retirement Collection - November 2014 $213,485 Total $1,576,409
uses of contributions July 1, 2014 – June 30, 2015
$550,000 $500,000 $450,000 $400,000 $350,000 $300,000 $250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 Development/ Communications Expenses
Present and Future Care of Elder Sisters
Ministry Support
Special Event Expenses
Motherhouse Expense
General Operating Expenses
In Kind Gifts
2014-2015 Development/Communications Expenses $260,435 Present and Future Care of Elder Sisters $372,628 Ministry Support (Casa San Jose, Foster Care, Peace Camp, Prison Ministry, $401,079 Spirituality Center, Grounds and Eco-Projects, Neighbors in Need, Pet Therapy, Other) Special Event Expenses (Golf Classic, Lottery Calendar, MGHS Brunch) $42,344 Motherhouse Expense - Directed to New Boiler $42,263 General Operating Expenses $439,083 In Kind Gifts (Golf Classic) $18,577 Total $1,576,409
page 16
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
✛ annual report to donors Circle
Compassion of
July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015
Anonymous (2)
Anthony J. and Michelle Guzzi
Estate of Vivian R. Boal
Margaret R. Kane
Estate of William A. Burgunder
Albert J. and Diane E. Kaneb
Estate of Barbara L. Burton
James S. and Lori Rausch
Dean A. and Mary Calland
Sisters of St. Joseph Auxiliary
Diocese of Pittsburgh
Anna M. Stedina
Eaton Corporation
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
EMCOR Group Inc. Richard F. Ferrucci
W. O’Neil Foundation
Helen M. Force Gardiner Howland Shaw Foundation
Circle
Joy of
Anonymous (2)
The Moloney Family Charitable Fund
Estate of Paul L. Kram, Jr.
Peter R. and Sue Osenar
Joseph Grimes
Bernadette F. Revicky
Hopkinton CC Charitable Foundation
Victaulic
Hubbell Inc. Jefferson Regional Medical Center Lennox International Inc. John F. and Jane Malloy Robert G. and Patricia Maloney
Circle
Zeal of
Anonymous (4)
Dr. Andrew C. and Ursula Chough
Estate of Mary Jo Cadigan
CJL Engineering
Estate of Rose T. Madonna
William R. and Patricia Collins
Dorothy Agostine
Robert G. Currier
Enrico D. Arzenti
Marta M. David
Pete and Suzanne Avila
Dennis and Kim DiPerna
Baker Tilly
Vincent Donatelli Family Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation
Lawrence and Constance Barone and Jeannie Brennan
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
Emcor Services Scalise Industries
Dolores O. Bassett
John R. Erck
Thomas G. and Joan Bigley
Richard W. and Beth Farmer
Dr. Julia E. Blum
Wayne Foley
Robert A. Bracci
Kathy Galleher
Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC
Gary D. and Lauretta Gordon page 17
✛ annual report to donors
July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015
Rev. Keith E. and Rev. Janet B. Grill
James J. and Dr. Alison M. Mirasola
Sisters of St. Joseph - Clarence NY
Michael Gross
Philip and Patricia Muck Charitable Foundation
Sisters of St. Joseph - Watertown, NY
Michael J. and Debra L. Gubanic Dr. David and Marilyn Harcum Joseph and Kathy Haver
David P. Nauman and Rebecca Degrosky Edward J. and Nancy Norberg
Janice M. Hayes
Carole A. Ortenzo
Alfred E. Jones and Frances Bridgeman Jones Memorial Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation
Thomas and Joyce Pappert Thomas M. and Christel Parrish
William E. and Carolyn Keslar
Leo N. and Evelyn L. Pohl
Phillip S. Kimball The James Jr. Fund Inc.
The Platt Family Foundation Prudential Foundation Matching Gifts Program
Knights of Columbus Queen of Peace Council #5367
William S. Rank
Ladies of Bethany
Kenneth G. Reese
Joan Lavery
Paul A. and Cindy Rank
Harry and Becky Lewis
Rev. Andre N. Remillard and Lillian M. Remillard
Craig S. and Ellen Liberatore
S. Edward and Katherine Renner
Jerry and Annette Lindley
Daniel A. and Judy Rowley
Marcus & Shapira LLP
Timothy G. and Carol Rubritz
Robert G. and Jane Mazur
Gordon E. and Jo Anne Scherer
Conrad J. and Susan McGuire
Mary Ellen Schuessler
David J. and Susan Merison
Gerald A. Serrino
John M. Miller
Nacol B. Sharkins
John and Patty Miller
Charles E. and Ellen Sheedy
Circle
Peace of
page 18
St. Veronica High School Class of 1963 Staley Capital Advisers Dennis and Regina Stover Helane C. Tobin Dr. Gregory T. and Dr. Leslie R. Trecha Dr. Christopher and Barbara Troianos Steven and Betty Uzupis Michael C. and Linda Vojtasko Steve Wagner David G. and Marianne A. Walsh Gregory J. and Lori Weimer Wesco Distribution Inc. Linda T. Whitford Rick and Patricia Williams John J. Young
Anonymous (8)
Robert A. and Arleen Barth
Agility International Inc.
Edward W. Bartosh
Robert J. and Susan Alman
Elizabeth W. Bauernschub
AmeriServ Financial
LaVerne S. Beckett
Frank T. and Mary Ellen Anania
Christopher C. Benec
John M. and Anne Marie Arzenti
Joseph S. Beri
William S. and Shirley Balint
Ralph Betters
Ronald Barbati
Stanley J. and Linda Biel
Aurella J. Barch
Christine R. Bissert
Lawrence R. and Kathleen Barkowski
Michael P. and Elaine Blake
William and Susan Barrett
Borough of Baden Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
✛ annual report to donors
July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015
Richard E. Bosco
Walter E. and Annette Davis
Bernard R. and Clare Gillis
John Boyle
Debo Moving & Storage
Nicholas C. and MaryLu Giver
John L. and Elizabeth Branson
Linda G. DeBor
Mark W. and Melissa Good
Ken and Sheryl Brodie
Mark A. and Christina Degonish
Robert B. Greene
Carol Ann Brown
Neil and Carol DeLuca
Drew and Doris Grivna
Frances J. Brown
Thomas J. and Ruth Demko
Robert W. and Christine Grochowski
William P. and Justine Brown
Pamela B. Dereta
Jeff H. and Elaine Groezinger
Robert L. Brush, Jr.
James F. DiBenedetto
Judith L. Guttilla
Amy L. Bubash
Joseph G. Dillon
Dr. Louis M. and Lynn Guzzi
Frances E. Bungo
Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown Mission Office
Dennis D. and Barbara Habowski
John and Gina Dioguardi
Robert T. and Linda Hales
Thomas J. Burgunder Max E. and Helen Callaghan David S. Cavanaugh
Mary Jo Dressel
Daniel P. Cellini
Joseph L. and Mary Driggs
Catherine A. Charnock Vincent F. and Anna Cimino City Theatre Company Inc. Jonathan D. and Pamela Clark Charlene K. Clarke
Barry and Aida Dugan Mary A. Durra Gabriela Dusaniwskyj Anita L. Dwyer John R. and Gertrude Echement
James J. Colaianne, Jr. Concurrent Technologies Corporation Mary J. Connaughton
William and Kathleen Englert Michele Fagan Richard A. Finoli
John A. and Kris Connolly
Francis J. Fisher
Mike and Elizabeth Connor Daniel J. and Barbara Connors E. Lynn and Rosemary Contrucci Marie T. Coschigano
Karen S. Fisher Rosalia M. Flaherty Kevin M. and Donna Flannery Elizabeth A. France
Frank G. and Adelfa Coyle
Alan H. and Anna Maria Francis
Calvin Cramer
Mary J. Frankenberry
Paul A. Crandell
Denis J. Frost
Edward Crum
Molly Fulling
Cura Hospitality William W. and Anna Jean Cushwa Byron K. and Lana Custer Edward J. and Maureen Dabrowski Donald R. and Mary Jane D’Amico David Z. and Noreen D’Argenio Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
Daniel B. Donahoe
2016
Marcia Gallina Advised Fund of Cumberland County Foundation, Inc. Blaine W. and Mary Anne Galonski Brother Allen Ganz, FSC Tom J. and Carole Garner
Dr. Maureen Haggarty Walter C. and Mary Hall Joan E. Hallinan Patricia A. Hammond, CSJA William J. and Margaret Hannan Gregory A. and Gail Harbaugh Stephen Hegner Dawn E. Heilman Joseph M. and Patty Henry Janet E. Hicks Highmark Matching Funds Dan L. and Vanessa Hummel Antonino and Mary Clare Incardona Raymond R. and Marie Jacko Jeffrey and Susan Jackson Richard P. and Dorothy Jacob Andrew T. and Pearl Johnson Dorothy A. Kala James S. and Frances Kalmer Lisa M. Katulis Dr. Edward G. Kelly James E. and Margaret Kervin Thomas R. and Antoinette Kessler John R. and Mary Kilkeary Dr. Wayne K. and Rebecca Kinning Karen J. Knox page 19
✛ annual report to donors
July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015
William H. and Pamela Kredel
Albert J. Morian, Jr.
William F. and Susan Scherfel
Michael J. and Virginia Kubek
Edward, Gail and Elizabeth Moschetti
Edmund N. Schuster
Kathleen M. Kundar
Brother Charles E. Mrozinski, FSC
John J. and Susan Sciarretti
LabChem Inc.
Lawrence L. and Marianne Murray
Capt. James E. and Suzi Sheehan
Daniel H. and Larna Lackner
Virginia F. Muth
Sisters of St. Joseph - West Hartford CT
Don and Monica Lane
James A. and Mary Nania
Paula Soto
Lois M. Lang
Jack and Louise Napor
Marian M. Langer
James F. and Maureen Nelson
Robert N. Spinelli and Christine A. Crawford
Paul R. and Patricia Lebanik
Raymond M. and Jean Niedenberger
Joseph and Myra Leone
Jenny Novak
Judith M. Lewis
Michael O’Brien
Melissa Lewis
Janet Ofodile
Jeffrey F. and Mary Llewellyn
Lawrence T. O’Neill
Mark J. and Fran Llewellyn
Barbara M. Onn
William H. and Carroll Logsdon
Mark J. Orient
Dr. Margaret M. Lyday
Shannon Oster
JoAnn Maher
Vincent C. and Beth Palilla
John N. and Constance Marasciula
Linda A. Panchura
Albert D. and Eileen Massi
Park Swim Club
William P. and Kay Mausteller
Mark E. Pasquerilla
Donald K. and Donna McBee
George A. and Patricia Pecoraro
Patrick J. and Diane McCann
Thomas W. and Kathleen Peske
Richard A. and Lisa McCanna
Peter and Tricia Pesut
Rev. Msgr. Stephen A. McCarren
Karen M. Petruny
Richard W. and Lauren McCarthy
Gilbert M. Pielin
Ellen McCracken
Robert A. and Christine Pietrandrea
Linda V. McKeehan
Poland Funeral Home Inc.
Louis K. McLinden, Sr.
Mitchell G. Possinger
Terry and Donna McNamara
Paul J. and Patricia Prucnal
Daniel McNulty
Bernard J. and Patricia Rabik
David E. and Marilyn Meehan
Andrew Raszewski
Patricia J. Meyer
Mark E. and Margaret Rentler
Charles J. and Betty Minor
Richard D. Riordan
Mon Yough Catholic School
Rita M. Riordan
Dr. John I. and Betty Moraca
Dennis B. Roddy and Joyce A. Gannon
Barbara J. Moretti
Rohrich Toyota
Michael A. Morgan
Thomas and Marilyn Schaub
page 20
Dr. Frances H. Squires St. Alexis School St. James School St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing Class of 1964 Thaddeus S. and Jacqueline Stasiak Jefferson J. and Ruth Stensrud Angela M. Stevens Patricia Swartzlander, CSJA Ann M. Sweeney Stephen and Joyce Tambolas Mary Ann Tarnovich Dr. David G. and Amy Thimons Cynthia R. Tierno Thomas P. and Donna Timcho Dr. Nick Trombetta Stephen P. and Debra Turcsanyi Richard and Lura Vereb Dianne Vernet Theresa L. Vidas Violeta C. Viray Dorothy A. Vojna William S. Warren Mark Welch James A. and Joann Wick Patrick M. and Kelly Wiethorn William A. Wiles Mary G. Wolf Jerry F. and Nancy Wood Mary Kay Wood
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
✛ annual report to donors CIRCLES OF GIVING Circle of Compassion $10,000 or more
July 1, 2014 - June 30, 2015
St. Joseph Legacy Society
Circle of Joy Up to $9,999
The St. Joseph Legacy Society recognizes those individuals who witness the spirit of generosity modeled by our patron, St. Joseph. Members of the Society are honored for any planned gift, no matter the amount.
Circle of Zeal Up to $4,999 Circle of Peace Up to $999
The Sisters of St. Joseph are grateful to the following benefactors for bequests given during fiscal year 20142015. May God reward their selfless generosity with light, happiness and peace in God’s eternal home.
Circle of Grace Up to $249 We express our deep and heartfelt gratitude to 2,403 Circle of Grace donors whose yearly contributions up to $249 have blessed us greatly with a cumulative gift of $141,597.15. We regret that we are not able to publish the individual names, but we hold their names in our hearts and in our prayers.
Vivian R. Boal
Ida M. Klepper
William A. Burgunder
Paul L. Kram, Jr.
Barbara L. Burton
Rose T. Madonna
Mary Jo Cadigan
Helane C. Tobin
The Fontbonne Circle Named in honor of Mother St. John Fontbonne, who restored the Congregation in Lyon, France, in 1808 after the French Revolution, the Fontbonne Circle formally recognizes those whose cumulative lifetime gifts to the Sisters of St. Joseph and their ministries have reached $10,000.00 We thank these benefactors who generously support the mission and ministries of the Sisters of St. Joseph. As builders of God’s great love, they partner with us to make Jesus known and to apply the Gospel to all realms of human life.
Joseph Grimes Michael and Debra Gubanic Hopkinton CC Charitable Foundation Margaret R. (Peggy) Kane
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
Robert and Patricia Maloney W. O’Neil Foundation Bernadette F. Revicky
page 21
S
✛ eco projects
sharing our bounty
Volunteer gardener sees value in sustainability
Alice with Sister Lyn page 22
Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
As the growing season waned in late October, Sister Lyn Szymkiewicz and volunteer Alice Valoski harvested the last 12 pounds of romaine lettuce from a garden on the grounds of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Some of the lettuce would be delivered to the local food bank, some would be tossed as salad in the Sisters’ dining room, and the wilted, brown leaves would be fed to the resident chickens. Since 2009, Alice has volunteered alongside Sister Lyn - planting, mulching, weeding, watering and harvesting the produce from the two community gardens and the Sisters’ garden on the Motherhouse property. Alice of Sewickley was one of the first local residents to sign up to tend a raised bed in Miriam’s Garden, the first of the two community gardens. While visiting a friend at Villa St. Joseph, Alice picked up a flyer promoting the gardens and was immediately drawn to participating.
“I enjoy gardening and wanted to help others
Alice, a registered dietitian who grew up with family gardens, appreciates and values the multiple benefits of community gardens:
“Community gardens encourage food security and a sense of community by giving people an opportunity to work together to grow their own food or food that can be shared with others. These gardens can improve the health of participants by
who might not have access to fresh nutritious
increasing their consumption of fresh produce and
food,” she says. “Often times, food that is donated
increasing their physical activity by working in
to food banks and soup kitchens is high in calories the garden. People who participate learn how to with few nutrients.” grow their own food.” Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
page 23
F
Alice says she was delighted to don “the bee suit” and learn more about the “amazing insects” from Sister Lyn, a certified beekeeper. She also credits Sister Lyn with improving her gardening skills, becoming a better steward of the environment by controlling pest and weeds more safely and organically, and offering her an opportunity to help others have access to nutritious foods. Alice, who likes all vegetables, would pick “a juicy, sun-ripened heirloom tomato” as her favorite.
At an early age, Alice got her hands dirty in the garden. “When I was a child my family always had a garden. We ate fresh vegetables from the garden during spring, summer, and fall. Then we canned or froze the excess for winter. As a child I don’t think I appreciated how fortunate I was to have fresh, home-grown veggies.” Alice recalls the generosity of her uncle who was always quick to share “extra” produce with friends and neighbors. That spirit of kindness resonates with Alice, who each growing season donates between 100 and 200 pounds of produce from Miriam’s Garden to local food banks and soup kitchens. “Alice’s successful harvests of produce witness to her superb gardening skills,” says Sister Lyn, who is Director of Grounds and Eco Projects for the Sisters. “She has gone beyond the call of volunteering in the gardens. She is a ‘go-to’ person for me. Alice often made it possible for me to go to a conference or take a weekend off from watering the gardens because she so freely volunteered to take over those responsibilities.” The community gardens, as well as the raising of chickens and tending bees, are part of Earth Tones, a ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph. The ministry not only produces vegetables, eggs and honey, but also hand-crafted items, such as soaps and lotions, from the beeswax. page 24
Occasionally, after working in the garden, Alice says she would enjoy stopping by the convent “to share a smile and some of the delicious tomatoes” with the friends she has nurtured over the years: Sister Bridget James O’Brien, Sister Mary Dominic Ravotti, Sister Anne Celine Mutscheller and Sister Anthony Costlow.
Earth Tones: By the numbers in 2015
GARDENS F R GOOD 134 volunteers, 851 hours
606 pounds of produce for sisters
651 pounds of produce for the needy
BEES F R BEAUTY 10 hives 500+ pounds of honey
CHICKENS F R CHANGE 8 chickens 23 dozen eggs for sisters 40 dozen eggs for the needy 80 dozen eggs sold for sustainability Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
F ✛ YouTube
featuring our volunteers Couple connects ‘Luca’ with hospice patients
With a tasty treat in hand, Kathy Hogan gently guides Luca to the bedside of a hospice patient. Luca, a certified therapy dog, nuzzles closer and softly rests her head alongside the woman. Through Pets with Heart, Kathy and her husband, Garry, have been bringing Luca to the Good Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
Samaritan Hospice floor at Heritage Valley Beaver for more than a year. Their Tuesday visits are a cheerful part of the week for hospital administrators, hospice floor staff and just about everyone they meet in the hallway or on the elevator. “It’s a very special journey that families on the hospice floor are walking on and to be able to go with Luca and bring a little bit of sunshine in such a sad situation is just remarkable,” Kathy says. Working with a therapy dog was on Kathy’s “bucket list” of things she has always wanted to do. She noticed the Pets with Heart brochure while picking up her own dog from the groomer. She kept it and later recognized Sister Pat Montini and
her golden retriever, Luca, while visiting a friend at Villa St. Joseph. “There was an immediate connection between Luca and Kathy and Garry Hogan,” Sister Pat says. “She asked if she would be able to take Luca on a weekly visit to the hospice at Good Samaritan and even went to training classes with Luca.” Sister Pat and Sister Sharon Costello created Pets with Heart to offer comfort, joy and healing to God’s people. Together, the Sisters and their dogs offer a gentle presence to people at hospitals, schools, nursing homes and community centers. They are thankful for volunteers, like Kathy and Garry, who help spread the charism, or spirit, of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Visit our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/CSJBaden to meet Kathy and Garry Hogan and learn more about Pets with Heart. page 25
S ✛ sacred space
strolling through time History, architecture of chapel captivate guests
When Cheryl Chupa stepped into the Sisters of St. Joseph Chapel for the first time, she was moved by its soothing and simple beauty. “I felt totally embraced by peace,” said Cheryl, who lives in Aliquippa and photographs church steeples as a pastime.
Debby David of Harmony Township said she regularly visits churches and she counts St. Michael in Chicago and St. Stanislaus in Pittsburgh, among the most magnificent. “It’s so exciting to note the many differences in design and décor, but all of them - even this chapel - focus on the beautiful centerpiece of the altar,” she said. Cheryl and Debby were among the first-time visitors to the Chapel who learned about its rich history, stunning architecture, and sacred traditions in a “Stroll through Time” event. The hour-long presentation by Archivist Kathleen Washy on March 13 coincided with National Catholic Sisters Week.
Archivist Kathleen Washy page 26
In opening remarks, Sister Barbara Czyrnik of the Leadership Team said:
“Welcome to the heart of our home . . . to this sacred space that has surrounded hundreds of Sisters of St. Joseph, Associates and friends with the warmth and light of God’s presence. This is where we pray, where we sing, where we grieve, where we celebrate.” For Nancy Yanyanin and Lorraine Walley, former Mount Gallitzin Academy parents, the presentation stirred memories of their children processing down the Chapel aisle for their first Holy Communion, Confirmation, and other faith gatherings. Nancy said she was drawn to the event because of its close proximity, the opportunity to learn something new, and the spiritual setting. “What a peaceful and beautiful place. It was an inspiring afternoon that left us wanting more,” said Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
Paulette Green, a 1972 graduate of Mount Gallitzin Academy. Designed in 1923 by architect Carlton Strong, the Chapel was constructed in 1924. Strong, who practiced architecture in New York
before locating to Pittsburgh, is well-known for his regional design of Catholic parishes, universities, and convents. He is best known for designing Sacred Heart Parish in Shadyside. The afternoon event attracted 120 guests from Beaver, Butler
and Allegheny counties, including history and architectural enthusiasts, former students of the sisters, and parishioners from Our Lady of Peace, St. James, St. Titus, St. Catherine, and St. Ferdinand. Sisters of St. Joseph Associate Carol Brown invited two first-time visitors to the program, and they were quick to point out the striking resemblance in architecture between the Chapel and their parish, St. Joseph in New Kensington. Their church also was designed by Carlton Strong. Among the guests were David, Ed and Celeste Parrendo, whose late father Nicholas designed four stained glass windows in the oratory, located near the Chapel in the community building. Mr. Parrendo began his 66year artistic career at Hunt Stained Glass Studios in Pittsburgh, and
eventually bought the business. Henry Hunt, the founder of Hunt Studios, designed and manufactured the stained glass windows that grace the Chapel. Six windows are featured in the sanctuary, including St. Joseph and the Nativity. Along the walls are 44 additional windows, half of which represent saints. “Kathleen’s presentation was well researched and enlightening, and I enjoyed the visuals. She only needed to add music of the Sisters to make it perfect,” said David Parrendo. Following the presentation, guests mingled with approximately 30 sisters and continued the conversation about the history of the Chapel and the Congregation.
Ed, Celeste and David Parrendo Sisters of St. Joseph / spring
2016
The event, which was funded by a National Catholic Sisters Week mini-grant from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, was among a series of projects across the country that organizers planned to “instruct, enlighten and bring greater focus to the lives” of Catholic sisters. page 27
1020 State Street • Baden, PA 15005
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Pittsburgh, PA. Permit No. 4675
notes from our neighbors Blessed Sacrament School in Natrona Heights first opened its doors in September 1954. We were all members of the very first third grade class in the brand new school building . . . . So here we were all little children walking into a new intimidating environment waiting to see who our teacher was going to be. Our teacher was Sister Mary Arnold (Sister Jacqueline Ketter). . . . Sister Mary Arnold brought a smile to our faces and light to our life. Each day as we entered our classroom, Sister greeted us with a smile and happiness. You could tell she loved answering God’s call. Some of us were fortunate to have her in sixth grade also. For all the years that Sister Mary Arnold and all of the others who have given their lives to God’s service, we thank you. To each of you who taught us studies, the Ten Commandments, prepared us for First Communion and Confirmation, please do not think your hard work was in vain. So much of your hard work and teachings remain with us in the world today. We pray for all of you. We thank all of you and ask that God bless you all . . . . Janice (Friel) Kaufman, Colette (Oravitz) Kaufman, Kathleen (Traenkner) Butera, Guy Lattus, John Matjasko Sisters of St. Joseph / spring page 28
2016