Voices of Charity - Winter 2014 - Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth

Transcription

Heart of the Matter:
50-year anniversary of
South American missions
pages 3-19
Winter 2014
Beyond All Borders:
Water filters at work
around the world
pages 32-33
A publication of the
Mission Statement
Impelled by the love of Christ,
we, the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth,
offer every loving service in our power
to meet the critical needs
of God’s people.
Vision Statement
As Sisters of Charity we commit ourselves here and now
to embrace anew the charism given us by Vincent, Louise,
Mother Xavier:
to love the poor,
to love one another,
to live simply,
and to unite the whole of our lives
in the poor and loving Christ.
COVER PHOTO: Hermanas de la Caridad at the Mother House for
the summer 2013 All Community Gathering: seated left to right,
Hermanas Julia Huiman Ipanaque, Laura Rumiche Morales, Deidy
Abad Pulache, Lourdes Abad Pulache and Elena Mack; standing,
left to right, Hermana Regina Deitchman, Rosa Yesenia Juárez
Amaya (postulant), Hermanas Esther Vilela Gutiérrez, Clorinda
Timaná Martinez and Ruth Reischman. Not pictured: Hermanas
Susana Córdova Castillo and Liduvina Domínguez Córdova.
in this issue
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Community Officers:
Sister Maureen Hall, Community Director
Sister Nancy Bauman,
Community Councilor
Sister Eileen Haynes, Community Councilor
Sister Eileen Hurley, Community Councilor
Sister Jean Anne Panisko,
Community Treasurer
Sister Peg Johnson, Community Secretary
Voices of Charity
published by the
Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth
Cantwell Hall
4200 South 4th Street
Leavenworth, KS 66048-5054
www.scls.org
Editorial Advisory Committee:
Sister Marie Brinkman
Sister Peg Johnson
Sister Mary Jo Quinn
Sister Susan Rieke
Sister Charlotte White
Editor:
Therese Horvat, SCLA
Communications Director
Designer:
Rosie Holderby
Cole Design & Production
From the
Community Director
Sister Maureen Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Heart of the Matter
50 years and many blessings
in South American missions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Missions have distinct personalities;
abundance of spirit prevails . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Published December 2013
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Of Special Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Highlighting special honors
and ‘in the news’ items
Vocation Voices
Community welcomes
two new candidates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Leadership Camp fulfilling
its dual purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Piura – touching many lives . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Leavenwords
Chalaco – a long-time mission . . . . . . . . 7
Passion for teaching
and a few surprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Piura – a second time,
more ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Where the Hermanas serve
and their ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Chuschi – rich culture,
many needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Beyond All Borders
SCLs continue ministries
in South Sudan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Home again, home again . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Water filters’ impact felt
around the world . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
People – the heart and soul of Peru . . . . . 16
AIDS ministry active in Piura, Peru . . . . . . 34
Continuity, charism
have lasting value in Peru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
SCL Associates
Re-markings
New Ross Hall to feature
a homelike environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Special bonds with residents
through nursing home ministry . . . . . . . . 20
Friendship spans years
for members of class of 1946 . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Finding her niche in
contemporary liturgical art . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Book Review
Called to live ‘newly’
in a challenging world . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Blessings! ¡Bendiciones!
Pope Francis calls for mission zeal . . . . . . 37
Cover Photo:
Don Brent
Don Brent Photography
Comments and story suggestions
appreciated. Email to [email protected];
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mail; or call 913-758-6541.
www.scls.org
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From the
Community
Director
The message of the prophet Isaiah – so loud and clear during the
Advent and Christmas seasons – has equally important meaning as we
begin a new calendar year. Isaiah’s words of hope and joy point to new
days ahead and the way things should be different with Emmanuel
come to dwell among us.
In the New Testament, Jesus takes Isaiah’s message to heart and uses the
prophet’s words to describe his own ministry:
Sister Maureen Hall
“He [Jesus] stood up to read and was handed a scroll of the prophet Isaiah.
He unrolled the scroll and found the passage where it was written:
‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he has anointed me
to bring glad tidings to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives
and recovery of sight to the blind,
and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord.’”
Luke 4:17-19
We recognize Jesus’ mission in and through his words and his actions.
And through the great commissioning as recorded by Matthew in his Gospel,
we are called to follow in Jesus’ footsteps. We’re also told that we’re not alone
on this journey. Jesus reassures his disciples and us, “I am with you always,
until the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).
These messages of hope, service and apostolic challenge resonate with
the story of our 50 years in the South American missions. The first Sisters
of Charity of Leavenworth missioned to Peru in 1963 ventured into the
unknown in response to the Gospel call and to be bearers of the light of the
Lord. God has surely been with us on this journey. Today, from villages in
the Andes Mountains to city streets in Piura, our Hermanas continue that
mission. We celebrate their good works in this Voices of Charity.
And so, likewise, in Kansas City, Leavenworth, Montana and South Sudan –
wherever SCLs and Associates serve – we strive to take the Gospel mandate to
heart and put it into action. This is our mission; this is our passion. Much as
Jesus reassured his followers, it is reassuring to have this ministry of service
affirmed for all of us today by Pope Francis.
Thank you for your continued interest in our mission and ministries.
We extend heartfelt wishes that your New Year will be blessed with deep hope
and abundant joy.
Sister Maureen Hall
SCL Community Director
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Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth • Voices of Charity • Winter 2014
Heart of the Matter
years
and
50many blessings
in South American missions
s
In Chalaco, seated at the doorstep to her
home, Angela receives Communion from
Hermana Regina Deitchman.
Dressed in the region’s native costume,
a mother agrees to be photographed with
her child on the road to Chuschi.
Hermanas join a toast at the reception Nov. 3 in Piura to celebrate 50 years of the
SCL South American missions; left to right, Hermanas Esther Vilela Gutiérrez, Clorinda
Timaná Martinez and Lourdes Abad Pulache.
Editor’s note
In early November, I was blessed
to travel to Peru to document
celebration of the 50th anniversary
of the SCL missions and ministries
of the Hermanas de la Caridad de
Leavenworth (HCLs), as the Sisters
are known in Peru.
Friends rightly predicted this
would be the trip of a lifetime. I saw
and experienced things I never had
before – travelling a single-lane,
rocky road through the Andes
Mountains; being a minority due
to language differences; seeing
people living in poverty but loving
life. I very quickly came to value
water, appreciate the genuineness
and graciousness of the Peruvian
people, and even more deeply
respect the good works of the
Sisters and Hermanas, who
accomplish so much with
limited resources.
These articles chronicle my
travels and the journey of my heart.
— Therese Horvat, SCLA
www.scls.org
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Heart of the Matter
years and
50many
blessings
Missions have distinct personalities;
abundance of spirit prevails
While each of the three SCL mission
locations in Peru –Piura, Chalaco and
Chuschi – has distinctions of geography,
customs and personalities, they share
noteworthy traits.
Top of the list is the beauty, simplicity
and joy of the Peruvian people. From
big-eyed little girls to young adults to old
people wrinkled with age, their smiles
radiate an inner peace.
Another common feature across the
three locations is that the Peruvians love
the Hermanas. This was evident at the
Nov. 3 Mass and reception in Piura to
celebrate the 50th anniversary of the SCL
missions. It was obvious in the villages
where people greeted the Sisters.
A final shared trait is that while there
is poverty in terms of material goods, an
abundance of spirit prevails. This spirit
of hope has been nurtured by the SCL
presence in Peru over the past 50 years.
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1. Piura
Piura is a coastal city of 400,000, north of Lima.
It is the oldest Spanish city in South America.
2. Chalaco
Located in the Andes Mountains by way of a one
lane, winding, rutted road, Chalaco is a village of
2,000 where SCLs have served for 40 plus years.
3. Chuschi
Deep in the Andes, Chuschi is a village of less
than 1,000, including Quechua people who have
preserved their own language and traditions.
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Piura – touching many lives
My SCL mission journey
began in Piura on Sunday, Nov. 3.
I arrived mid-morning from Lima
to be welcomed at the airport by
Hermanas Elena Mack and Regina
Deitchman and Sister Eileen Haynes.
The Hermanas serving in Peru
were in Piura for a Community
meeting and celebration of the
50th anniversary. Sister Eileen was
there as the SCL Community
Council representative.
Piura is a coastal city of 400,000,
north of Lima. It is the oldest
Spanish city in South America.
In late summer, the Hermanas
had hosted a 50th jubilee celebration
in Talara, northwest of Piura, where
the SCLs established their first
Peruvian mission that operated
until March 2005.
On Sunday, Nov. 3, the celebration
centered in Piura. Archbishop José
Antonio Eguren Anselmi, SCV
(Piura), Bishop Dan Turley, OSA
(Chulucanas), and several priests
concelebrated Mass at Santa Rosa
Parish. Hermanas participated by
doing readings and bearing Offertory
gifts. A festive reception followed
at a community center with music,
food, singing, Peruvian dances and
many congratulatory wishes for the
Hermanas. Because I was with and
associated with the Sisters, I received
many undeserved hugs and words
of thanks!
On Monday, Nov. 4, Father
Luciano Maza, Santa Rosa pastor,
offered Mass at the Sisters’ house. A
brisk walk later, we visited Centro San
Vicente de Paul, the SCL-sponsored
ministry where people can access a
variety of services. Hermana Laura
Rumiche Morales is director of the
center. Hermana Elena currently
volunteers there.
Main celebrant for the Nov. 3 Mass was Archbishop José Antonio
Eguren Anselmi, SCV, of Piura who gave the homily.
Things we take for granted
Water ranks high on the list of precious
natural resources we take for granted in
the U.S. In all three SCL mission locations
in Peru, the Hermanas use the water filters
provided through the generosity of SCLs,
Associates and donors. Visitors are advised
not to drink water from the tap or to use it
for brushing teeth. Water is boiled to wash
and rinse dishes.Water heaters in bathrooms
heat water for showers; otherwise, tap
water runs cold at the mission locations.
Internet access is unpredictable in Chalaco,
and non-existent at the Chuschi convent.
Neither of these villages has mail delivery.
However, cell phone access is more widespread, even in the mountains – helping
connect Peruvians in villages with family
members who have moved to the cities.
Hermana Julia Huiman Ipanaque (right) accepts well wishes
from an acquaintance attending the Nov. 3 celebratory Mass
in Piura.
www.scls.org
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Heart of the Matter
years and
50many
blessings
Hermana Susana Córdova Castillo at the
lectern during the Nov. 3 Mass.
Persons of all ages receive physical therapy treatments provided by 15 students
who are volunteering at Centro San Vicente de Paul to complete practicum
work toward their degrees. Patients who can afford it pay approximately
$2.00 to $2.50 per visit, although many find this beyond their means.
At first, Hermana Laura had to recruit volunteers. Now students from four
universities request the center as a placement because of its good reputation
as a learning site.
Hermana Laura explains that the center takes a wholistic approach.
Reflexology and massage are offered in the afternoons. “If a person complains
of stress in the shoulders and back,” she says, “the individual can receive
physical therapy and massage, and also see the psychologist.”
Thursday afternoons, expectant mothers – many of whom are 16 to
17 years old – attend childbirth preparation classes. The Hermanas have
introduced these young women to the water filters made possible by
donations and grants from the United States. Other services of the center
include computer classes, a children’s library on Saturday mornings and
group spiritual reflection.
Hermana Laura appreciates that she can live and share the Vincentian
charism with others. “The charism to love and serve the poor spreads out like
a ripple,” she says.
At 15 months old, Gabriela is more interested in the camera
than the physical therapy treatment being given by Jahaira
Ypanaqué, student at Centro San Vicente de Paul.
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Elvis, a 10-year-old, receives a treatment from Javier Alama
Baero, a physical therapy student at Centro San Vicente de Paul.
In the passing lane
s
On the return trip from Chalaco on the two-lane paved
road, Hermana Lourdes Abad Pulache passed a large
truck. Once in the passing lane, she called out,“Burro,”
and quickly got around the truck and the four-legged
animal sauntering across the road.
Chalaco – a long-time mission
From Piura, I traveled with the
Hermanas returning to their mission
in Chalaco by way of a pick-up
truck, the only vehicle owned by the
HCLs in Peru. Located in the Andes
Mountains via a one lane, winding,
rutted road, Chalaco is a village
of 2,000 where SCLs have served
for 40-plus years. Even during the
non-rainy season, it takes four-plus
hours to travel the 80 miles east
from Piura to Chalaco because of
road conditions. Driving through
the mountains, we saw banana trees
among visible crops on hillsides that
also produce sugar cane, potatoes,
peas, beans, wheat and rice. Crops
are planted in plots of ground
plowed by cattle or tilled with
hand-held implements.
In the government-sponsored health
center in Chalaco, Rosa Yesenia Juárez
Amaya, postulant, does a well-baby exam
with Christian.
Rooftops in Chalaco.
Streets are paved in the main
part of the village that’s populated
with people, donkeys, horses,
burros, chickens, pigs and dogs.
Transportation is mainly by foot or
by animal, except for a few motorized
vehicles and buses. Hermana Regina
Deitchman, who has been in the
Peruvian missions 44 years, started
her day by taking Communion to
homebound parishioners, Angela and
Micaéla. On our walk through the
village, we stopped and greeted people
shopping in small stores, sitting on
stoops of their houses or strolling
the streets. They acknowledged and
congratulated the Hermanas.
Down, down a hill is the government-operated health center where
Rosa Yesenia Juárez Amaya, HCL
postulant, is giving a year of service
as a physical therapist. The day of
our visit, Rosa was doing a well-baby
exam for Christian, a one-month-old.
Rosa expressed concern that the
baby may have some developmental
problems and discussed a possible
course of strengthening therapy with
his mother. Before Rosa’s arrival at
the center, the facility did not offer
physical therapy services; now, the
physicians are happy to make
referrals to her.
Hermana Regina Deitchman seems to know everyone in Chalaco including this man
and woman in a local shop.
www.scls.org
7
Heart of the Matter
years and
50many
blessings
they would use the filters responsibly
to their benefit. We turned around
and left Guayquil. Time, travel and
energy had led up to the evening.
With lack of interest demonstrated
at this location, Hermana Julia
will coordinate with public health
officials to identify another village
for the water filter project.
Hermana Julia is currently working
on her degree in psychology. Her
experience as a licensed practical
nurse involves her with persons with
Rosa Yesenia Juárez Amaya, postulant (left), reviews a lesson with Hermana Lourdes
Abad Pulache, formation director in South America.
In late afternoon, Rosa had classes
with Hermana Clorinda Timaná
Martinez. Hermana Lourdes Abad
Pulache is the formation director in
South America, and is assisted by
other Hermanas who teach different
themes and topics. Hermana
Clorinda’s primary ministry is to
train adults to train other catechists.
Next, it was off to Guayquil, a
village an hour away, where several
families had agreed to participate in
Beans dry in the sun on a plastic sheet in
the street in Chalaco.
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the water filter project. The Hermanas
hired a driver for the journey due
to roads even more challenging to
navigate than those leading into
Chalaco.
The Hermanas had earlier
introduced the filters successfully
in Naranjo, a village cited as having
the poorest water quality in the area.
Hermana Julia Huiman Ipanaque
said families were extremely happy
with the results.
Preliminary meetings had been
held in Guayquil to educate persons
interested in the water filters and
to identify the families with whom
they would share the simple water
purification system. However, the
evening of the scheduled training
on the date selected by villagers, only
one woman arrived.
Hermana Julia was disappointed
but concerned that if people didn’t
attend the training as they had
agreed to do, there was no assurance
The sun sets in the Andes that surround
Chalaco.
epilepsy and others with mental
illness – helping them secure needed
medicines or treatments. She also
connects parishioners in the Chalaco
area with the diocesan health
services program.
The next day, it was down the
mountain for a return trip to Piura.
Hermana Regina was scheduled to
work with Hermana Esther Vilela
Gutiérrez on the annual liturgical
calendar the HCLs have developed
and sold for the past 15 years.
Hermana Julia also returned to
Piura to do online studies with
more ease than allowed by the
unpredictable Internet service
in Chalaco.
Piura – a second time, more ministries
Back in Piura, we visited the
Universidad de San Pedro where
Hermana Laura is studying for her
physical therapy degree, a five-year
program in Peru. Everywhere we
traveled, professors, villagers, priests
and sisters from other communities
expressed their appreciation and
admiration of the HCLs who have
touched their lives.
That evening, we walked to the
nearby locations of the Association
for Life (ASPOV), an organization
that works with families and
individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.
A group of volunteers was meeting
to process their work and experiences. Hermana Elena has been
on the ASPOV board and currently
is a volunteer. ASPOV operates a
hospitality house and a home for
children affected by HIV/AIDS.
(See article, page 34, in the Beyond
All Borders section.)
The next morning, we visited the
high school where Hermana Esther
teaches religion. The high school
has morning and afternoon sessions
to accommodate the 1,600 students.
Hermana Esther is working on her
master’s degree in psychology in
addition to managing her teaching
schedule.
Sightseeing in Piura included
San Miguel Cathedral; the nearby
San Francisco Church, one of the
oldest churches in Peru; the plaza;
and a shopping mall, a relatively new
development in Piura. We traveled
by taxi, combi (a mini van) or a
mototaxi, a vehicle that appeared
to be built around a motorcycle
with an enclosed compartment that
seated three people.
At the HCL house in Piura, Agustina Berru demonstrates the
ease of using the water filter to ensure purified water for
meal preparation.
That day, we attended the funeral
of a 40-year-old woman from Santa
Rosa Parish. The woman had been
at the Nov. 3 jubilee celebration and
apparently died from an aneurysm.
Then, we took another brief city
tour by taxi to see the university
Hermana Esther attends, other
universities and the hospital
in Piura.
In the evening, we returned to
Centro San Vicente de Paul where
Hermana Laura held a regular
meeting with volunteers. The
meetings have a spiritual component,
and the team plans events and
activities such as the project to do
home repairs in conjunction with
observance of Founders’ Day.
Over 50 years in Peru, the
Hermanas have developed strong
ties and connections with other
religious communities and their
Among her duties at the high school, Hermana Esther Vilela
Gutiérrez changes the bulletin board each month. She is
pictured with Justo Sullon Saavedra, principal.
www.scls.org
9
Heart of the Matter
years and
50many
blessings
apostolic works. For example, the
HCLs gave a water filter to the
Daughters of the Immaculate Mary
who operate a home for teenage
girls who are at risk of trafficking
or face challenges in their home
environments. The home serves
50 to 60 young women at a time.
The goal is moral rehabilitation
of the 13 to 18 year olds, who can
spend up to three years there. They
attend school; receive Christian
formation; and learn skills including
sewing, baking, computers, arts and
crafts and vocational training.
The Sisters at the home are
thrilled to have the water filter. “No
germs!” they say. They like the water
better and work to convince the girls
of the importance of water.
A quick trip the next day to the
town of Catacaos allowed time for
shopping in the market. Plans didn’t
materialize to meet a woman with
HIV/AIDS whom Sister Elena visits
and who has a water filter in her
home. We took in local sights instead.
As she studies for her physical therapy degree at Universidad de San Pedro, Hermana Laura
Rumiche Morales meets with Manuel Arrunategui Jesús Sandoval, one of her professors.
Students who volunteer at Centro San Vicente de Paul join regularly with Hermana
Laura Rumiche Morales (right) for staff meetings that combine information, spiritual
formation and planning.
Hermana Elena Mack (front left) volunteers with a group that visits and works with persons with HIV/AIDS. Celina DeDioses (center left)
facilitates a session for volunteers to process their recent experiences.
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Where the Hermanas serve and their ministries
Location
Hermanas de la Caridad de Leavenworth
Ministries
Chalaco
Hermana Lourdes Abad Pulache
• Formation of new candidates
• Youth movement
• Water filter project
• Pastoral ministry
Hermana Regina Deitchman
• Visiting individuals and families
• Health services including outreach to persons with epilepsy; assistance for persons
with mental illness; and referrals to diocesan health resources
• Psychology student
• Physical therapy in health center
Rosa Yesenia Juárez Amaya (postulant)
• Teaching/training/supervising adult catechists
Hermana Clorinda Timaná Martinez
• Teaches classes in three high schools; focuses on student well-being, mental health
Chuschi
Hermana Deidy Abad Pulache
• Youth group
• Seniors’ noon meal program
Hermana Susana Córdova Castillo
• High school religion teacher
Hermana Liduvina Domínguez Córdova
• Director of Latin American missions
Piura
Hermana Elena Mack
• Visiting persons with HIV/AIDS
• Outreach, education to prevent trafficking
• Parish senior citizens support group
• Volunteer at Centro San Vicente de Paul
• Director of Centro San Vicente de Paul
Hermana Laura Rumiche Morales
• Physical therapy student
• High school religion teacher
Hermana Esther Vilela Gutiérrez
• Master’s level psychology student
www.scls.org
11
Heart of the Matter
years and
50many
blessings
Chuschi – rich culture, many needs
Hermana Elena continued as an
excellent tour guide and translator
as we traveled south by plane to the
Ayacucho region and then took a
mini-van deep into the Andes to
reach Chuschi, a village of less than
1,000. Among the population of this
region are the Quechua people who
have preserved their own language
and traditions. The Quechua women
have retained their native costumes –
often colorful, full skirts over long
slacks and decorated hats on their
heads. The HCLs have served in
Chuschi since 2004.
From Chuschi, the Sisters also
minister to people of surrounding
villages. On Sunday morning around
7 a.m., Hermana Elena, Ivone
Valencia, a volunteer, and I walked
an hour up the mountain to Uchuyri
for a prayer service. Hermanas Deidy
Abad Pulache and Susana Córdova
Castillo left two hours earlier by bus
to conduct prayer services in more
distant villages.
Three women participated in the
service we attended in the chapel in
Uchuyri. Ivone led in Spanish; the
women sang hymns in Quechua.
Each person led a decade of the
rosary in Spanish.
Back down the mountain to
Chuschi, 20 of us attended the
liturgical service led by Hermana
Susana because the priest was unable
to come to the village for Mass. As
people entered the church throughout the service, many lit candles;
others brought flowers to the altar.
Adjoining the convent in Chuschi
is the Ann Ross Parish Library where
that Sunday afternoon Ivone tutored
a young girl preparing for First
Communion. The library houses
books and computer work stations
available to students. Up to 30 access
the study facilities daily, Monday
through Friday. Students from Xavier
Students in her classroom deeply respect and admire Hermana
Liduvina Domínguez Córdova who teaches religion in the
high school.
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Elementary School, Leavenworth,
Kan., have contributed annually to
help support this library.
Hermana Deidy uses the library
for the youth group that meets each
Friday. Also located in the library is
an Office of Human Rights staffed
by two women who work part-time
for the government to advocate
for the rights of villagers. That
week, one of the workers was busy
helping a 12-year-old girl who had
been raped.
Up the hill a few steps from
the convent, St. Vincent’s Dining
Room is under construction to
house the mid-day meal for senior
citizens in the area. Hermana Susana
coordinates this program that is
currently hosted in an open garage
near the central plaza in Chuschi.
Seniors coming for lunch donate a
“sol” (30 cents) or bring a piece or
two of wood in exchange for a meal,
if they are able. They also bring
small pots with lids to carry food
Between ministries, Hermana Deidy Abad Pulache has kitchen
duty at the house in Chuschi.
First Communion comes first
Hermana Susana Córdova Castillo shared the story of a 10-year-old girl preparing for First Communion. When her
Father said he had something scheduled for the date she was to receive the sacrament and that he wouldn’t be
able to attend, the young girl politely suggested he change the date of what was causing the conflict.
home to spouses or neighbors
unable to walk the journey.
During our stay in Chuschi, we met
Maria and Hugo Juamani and their
young son Hugo Giovani who is
disabled. The Hermanas designated
some of their SCL Community
jubilee gift to this family to help
fund physical therapy treatments
in Huamanga (three hours away)
for young Hugo. The family also has
a water filter they received from
the Hermanas.
Founders’ Day, Nov. 11, 2013,
began in Chuschi with prayer and
song in the convent chapel. While
the Hermanas celebrated this feast,
it was still a work and ministry day.
We walked to the high school –
20 minutes away – where Hermana
Liduvina Domínguez Córdova
teaches religion.
First-year high school students
were studying the Bible. They
responded well when Hermana
Liduvina reviewed Old Testament
figures and chronology. The high
schools are government-run, and
religion classes are not mandatory.
However, Hermana Elena says that
many parents prefer that their teens
take religion classes.
The students enjoy and appreciate Hermana Liduvina. When
asked what they like about her, they
respond, “She knows how to dictate
lessons slowly, so we understand
quickly.” “She’s fun.” “She’s good.”
“She explains everything well.”
Recently, a student in one of
Hermana Liduvina’s classes finished
second place in the region in a
catechism competition. The school
of 254 students also scored first
in the Ayacucho region in a folk
dancing competition and in a math
contest for the district.
Hermana Susana Córdova Castillo with Siber, clearly her very devoted dog!
www.scls.org
13
Heart of the Matter
years and
50many
blessings
Seniors enjoy their noon meal as Hermana Susana Córdova Castillo (in red blouse)
serves beverages.
Ivone Valencia, volunteer, helped prepare
a young student for her First Communion.
Ivone lived with the Hermanas at Chuschi
and assisted with their ministries.
In the small chapel in Uchuyri, Ivone Valencia, volunteer, leads the Sunday
prayer service.
s
The women deposit their hats near the
entrance to the chapel.
Also working in the high schools, Hermana Deidy’s main ministry
centers around mental health and well-being of secondary students in
Chuschi and schools in two other villages. She conducts weekly sessions
for three different classes that may cover topics including self-esteem,
depression, abuse or anger control. She collaborates with COSMA,
a regional organization that has been educating people about the
importance of mental health. This year, COSMA sent mental health
professionals into the three schools to conduct separate workshops for
teachers, students and parents.
If Hermana Deidy observes a potential behavioral or emotional
concern, she attempts to schedule time during a COSMA team visit for
a professional to meet individually with the student. Or, Hermana Deidy
will go to the home to talk with the parents. But there’s not a readiness
or understanding yet to deal with mental health issues, many of which
she believes stem from alcoholism in the home or absence of a strong
family structure.
14
A passing attraction
catches the attention
of these women
in Uchuyri.
Home again, home again
By Founders’ Day, my heart
was turning toward family, home,
Kansas and my menagerie. Hermana
Elena, my traveling companiontranslator, was also ready to
re-immerse in a busy schedule
that includes planning toward the
January election of a new director
of the Latin American missions.
Peru was a fascinating, telling
journey. I saw firsthand how people
who have so little really have so
much and are willing to share. This
was exemplified by one woman who
gave the Hermanas two artichokes
when we stopped by her humble
hut. I witnessed faith expressed
differently in cities with Eucharistic
adoration and devotion to saints
and in villages where priests come
but once or twice a year due to
travel distances.
I came to appreciate the Hermanas
for their commitment to these
missions, their flexibility and their
big-heartedness to bear with burdens
and inconveniences – all for a
greater cause: to serve the Peruvian
people in the name and spirit of a
loving, merciful God.
In Uchuyri, a humble place of worship.
www.scls.org
15
Heart of the Matter
years and
50many
blessings
People – the heart
Hermanas de la Caridad currently serving in Peru include (seated, left to right) Hermanas Regina Deitchman, Deidy Abad Pulache,
Esther Vilela Gutiérrez, (standing, left to right) Julia Huiman Ipanaque, Elena Mack, Liduvina Domínguez Córdova, Lourdes Abad
Pulache, Susana Córdova Castillo, Laura Rumiche Morales, Clorinda Timaná Martinez and Rosa Yesenia Juárez Amaya (postulant).
Hermana Lourdes Abad Pulache and her niece at the
50th jubilee celebration in Piura.
16
Animals remain a means of transportation in Chuschi.
and soul of Peru
Bishop Dan Turley of the Chulucanas Diocese greets Hermana Elena Mack prior
to the Nov. 3 jubilee Mass at Santa Rosa Parish in Piura.
In Chalaco, a sunny day brings people to shops and stores for food and supplies.
In Chuschi, a woman embroiders a belt to be
sold at market in the larger city.
www.scls.org
17
Heart of the Matter
years and
50many
blessings
Continuity, charism have
lasting value in Peru
As they mark the 50th anniversary of the South American missions,
Hermanas de la Caridad de Leavenworth (HCLs) currently or recently serving in Peru sense a deep
continuity with Sisters who preceded them, and they anticipate continued opportunities to serve.
says, “Our charism – the essence
of service to the poor – continues,
especially in Chalaco.”
Hermana Lourdes Abad Pulache
says that the first missionary SCLs
opted to serve the persons who were
poorest, “and we continue to ask
ourselves how do we go out to meet
the poor as we look for ways to
serve today.”
Hermana Elena Mack, director of
Latin American missions, points to
Pope Francis’ message that religious
life is intended to go where the need
is crying out. She adds, “This means
taking risks and leaving securities
behind.” SCLs from the U.S. and
HCLs who are native to Peru have
done this with a servant attitude
and always with deep respect for the
Peruvian people.
“Our Sisters try to be very
inclusive,” says Hermana Lourdes.
“We try to be one with the people.”
This treatment of people with
dignity and respect has long-lasting
effects. Hermana Clorinda Timaná
Martinez says that the Sisters
develop relationships with people
and treat them well, and that this
makes a difference in the way
18
Sister Patricia Kielty receives a warm welcome in Talara, Peru, in August when a
number of SCLs who had served in the South American missions returned to mark the
50th anniversary.
ministries are received and perceived.
Even though the Sisters are no
longer in Talara, the site of the first
mission of the SCLs, the well-baby
clinic established by the Sisters
continues there.
Ministries expanded
Like the early SCL missionaries,
Hermana Ruth Reischman, who
returned to the Mother House in
May 2013, explains that Hermanas
in Peru remain involved in
“
Sisters develop relationships with people and treat
them well, and this makes a difference in the way
ministries are received and perceived.
”
— Hermana Clorinda Timaná Martinez
education and health care services.
Through the years, they have been
flexible and more expansive in
responding to needs – working with
youth, senior citizens and persons
with HIV/AIDS; and in pastoral
ministry. Hermana Regina
Deitchman describes training lay
persons as catechists and developing
women’s leadership skills as other
important ministries. In addition to
teaching in a state-run high school,
Hermana Esther Vilela Gutiérrez has
worked in inclusion programs to
address bullying.
HCLs have joined with the
Congress for Religious in Peru in
efforts to heighten awareness in
parishes about the violations of
rights through human trafficking.
And during this 50th jubilee year,
Hermanas have focused on the water
filter project in collaboration with
Sisters and Associates in the U.S.
Future full of hope
Hermana Laura Rumiche
Morales hopes that there will be
more people – either through
vocations or volunteers – to continue
to respond to changing needs of the
Also in Talara in August, a guest greets Sister Mary Joan Eble (right).
times and to be open to new
challenges. Rosa Yesenia Juárez
Amaya, a new candidate with
the Hermanas, says it was this
commitment to serve the poor
and to enhance the dignity of “her
people” that attracted her to the
Hermanas de la Caridad.
“We’re not social workers,”
Hermana Lourdes says. “We are
able to offer a lot more through our
Vincentian spirituality.”
“We will always be looking for new
situations where people are in need,”
says Hermana Deidy Abad Pulache.
www.scls.org
19
Re-markings
New Ross Hall
to feature a homelike environment
I
ncorporating many recommendations and suggestions
from SCLs – the entire Community and those
currently living at the Mother House – plans are
progressing to begin construction in early 2014 on
the new Ross Hall retirement facility in Leavenworth.
Projected completion is March 2015.
Sister Jean Anne Panisko, Community Treasurer,
chairs the Core Committee that is working with Hoffman
Planning, Design & Construction, Inc., the company
overseeing this initiative. There are seven consultative
subcommittees of SCLs and staff involved with various
aspects of the construction. Subcommittees include
Moving; Interior/Fixtures, Furnishing and Equipment;
Nursing; Food Service; Housekeeping/Maintenance;
Technology/Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing; and
Landscaping/Outdoors.
Sister Jean Anne explains that several key principles
are influencing the construction project. Among them,
she lists:
• Building green to reflect care of creation.
• Adhering to current codes for licensing.
• Adopting the person-centered care model.
• Fostering a homelike environment.
Current Ross Hall residents relocated to rooms in the
adjoining Marillac Center in early August. Preparatory
work – including removal of hazardous materials and
The new Ross Hall will have a covered entrance for ease of access.
deconstruction of the current Ross Hall structure – will
continue through January 2014.
The new facility will have 45 resident rooms, sized
sufficiently to accommodate visitors, lifts, technology
and wheelchairs. The rooms will be divided into five
pods of nine rooms each with central space for living
and dining. There will be screened porches/four-season
rooms and an easily accessible interior courtyard. The
new Ross Hall will also have a Memory Unit with green
space and a large activity room.
Working with Sister Jean Anne on the Core
Committee and serving as liaisons to the subcommittees
are Sister Marianna Bauder, Sister member; Mark
Gieseman, facilities project manager; Beverly Armstrong,
director of health and wellness; and Pete Zink, former
facilities director.
Special bonds with residents through
Sister Mary Kenneth
Messina
20
After 30 years ministering to the frail and
elderly in a nursing home ministry, Sister Mary
Kenneth Messina, who has been an SCL for
60 years, is continuing to do what she knows
best: visiting Sisters who are sick at the Mother
House and Ross Hall.
In July, she retired from her role as the
pastoral associate at Villa St. Francis, the skilled
nursing facility of the Archdiocese of Kansas City
in Kansas, located in Olathe, Kan. Sister had begun
her ministry with the nursing home as an office
worker when the facility was in Kansas City, Kan.,
and was named Mount St. Joseph Home.
Sister Mary Kenneth transitioned to pastoral
care and in this role visited residents and their
families and coordinated volunteers who
Friendship spans years for members of
class of 1946
Members of the St. Mary’s Academy
class of 1946, left to right, seated, Agnes
Giese, Annabel Willcott, Virginia Waters,
Irene Collins; left to right, standing,
Betty Markey and Tina Clements.
Annually since 2000 – and before that on landmark
anniversaries – members of the former St. Mary’s
Academy class of 1946 have met in the Midwest
for reunions and continue a friendship that began
in high school classes and corridors years ago.
T
he Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (SCLs)
opened St. Mary’s Academy for Young Ladies
on March 8, 1859, a few months after their
arrival in Leavenworth, Kan. The high school
closed in June 1950, ending a 90-year history.
Annabel Willcott, SCLA, Leavenworth, keeps the class
of 1946 connected via email and a periodic newsletter.
She has mailing addresses for 16 classmates; 12 are
deceased; and one can’t be traced. In spring 2013, Agnes
Giese, Lansing, Kan., hosted five of the women at her
home for their annual get-together. They plan their
gatherings around Tina Clements’ trips from Indian
Wells, Calif., to the Midwest to visit her family.
Back in the day, Annabel, Agnes and her sister Irene
Collins, Leavenworth, were “day hops” – students who
lived with their families in town and commuted to
school. Tina was a boarder from Atchison, as were Betty
Markey and Virginia Waters, from Kansas City, Mo.,
where they currently live.
Their memories include sneaking into Homer’s
Drive-in that was off-limits; smoking in the SCL cemetery;
wearing capes to chapel services; playing “Newcomb,” a
variation of volleyball; and being taught by young SCLs
who were only eight to 10 years older than the students.
“They taught us well,” Betty remembers. “They trained
us to be ladies.”
In addition to learning how to set a table and go
through a receiving line, the alumnae agree they received
a good education. And they made lasting friendships that
they rekindle annually in conversation and laughter.
nursing home ministry
transported residents to daily Mass. She was the sacristan
and also arranged ministers of denominations other than
Catholic to conduct worship services.
What Sister Mary Kenneth valued most was the opportunity to help residents prepare spiritually and emotionally
for dying. Likewise, she appreciated being able to offer
counsel to persons who may have “fallen away from their
faith” and were seeking to rekindle their ties to Catholicism.
She was also a listening ear for staff who may have been
experiencing difficulties with family life or their jobs.
“I miss the people deeply,” Sister Mary Kenneth says of
her decision to retire. Those people – the volunteers, board
members, co-workers, family members and residents –
attended her farewell party in record numbers to let Sister
Mary Kenneth know they appreciated her and would
miss her, too.
www.scls.org
21
Re-Markings
Of Special Note
In this section, Voices of Charity highlights Sisters, Associates and friends
who have earned special honors or been in the news.
Recognition as a
role model
Topeka families memorialize SCLs with gift to
St. Francis Health Center
Honors went to
Sister Therese Bangert
at the St. Peter Claver Day
Celebration, Sept. 7, in
Kansas City, Kan. Sister
Therese, a member of Our
Lady & St. Rose Parish, was
recognized as a role model and pillar
in the community.
The award was presented by the Ladies
of Fr. Joyce Finnigan Court #61, Kansas City,
Kan., and acknowledged Sister Therese as an
advocate for youth, immigrants and persons
who are poor. Sister Therese is SCL social
justice coordinator. She also is a volunteer
chaplain with the Kansas City, Kansas Police
Department. In this capacity, she assists
grieving family members of loved ones who
were victims of homicide or suicide.
The St. Francis Health Foundation announced a $1 million gift in honor
of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth to support renovation of the
emergency department at St. Francis Health Center, Topeka, Kan.
Tim Etzel and Carole Bloomfield Etzel and Jerry and Janet McElroy
joined to make the gift honoring and memorializing SCLs who have
served in the role of chief administrator of the hospital since its founding
in October 1909. Both families have long histories with St. Francis including
multiple board terms.
“Janet and I have known the Etzels for a long time, and we’ve always
shared an appreciation for the Sisters of Charity and for St. Francis,” says
Jerry. “It is an honor to make this gift alongside Tim and Carole. We are
excited about the renovation of the emergency department, and blessed
to be able to bring some much deserved recognition to the amazing
women who started this ministry.”
This gift will aid in completion of an ongoing $10 million renovation
to the emergency department at St. Francis. The gift was made in honor
and memory of 13 Sisters who served as chief administrators at St. Francis
between 1909 and 2006. A permanent recognition piece honoring these
Sisters will be placed outside the renovated emergency department upon
completion of the project in mid-2014.
Award presented in memory of SCL
Anthony Thios was the first recipient of
the Excellence in Patient and Staff Assistance
Award presented this spring at Exempla
Saint Joseph Hospital, Denver, in honor
of Sister Mary Siefken. In presenting the
award, Sister Renee Washut said, “Those of
us who knew and loved Sister Mary Siefken
are pretty certain she is smiling her blessing
upon the first recipient of the award given
in her honor. Anthony consistently expresses
loving care to each patient and their family
which enriches the health care we provide.”
Anthony is a pre-medical student who is
volunteering eight to 10 hours a week as an
Emergency Department Ambassador. His
compassion for helping the elderly earned
Anthony the recognition. His supervisors say,
“There is never a time when Anthony minds
helping the staff, and he does so with a smile
and such compassion that they are certain
one day he will make an excellent physician.”
22
Inmates recognize SCLs
for prison ministry
Several Sisters of Charity
of Leavenworth were among
guests receiving special recognition during the annual Catholic
banquet hosted on Sept. 14
by inmates at the Lansing
Correctional Facility, Lansing,
Kan. Inmates acknowledged
the volunteers who visit the
facility for a weekly session that
combines prayer and preparation
for the upcoming Sunday’s
scripture readings. Doug, one
of the inmates, made afghans
(funded by donations from
inmates) and presented these
to honorees. Afghans presented
to the SCLs featured the
Community’s crest.
Sister Rose Dolores Hoffelmeyer admires
the afghan hand-crafted by Doug, an
inmate at Lansing Correctional Facility,
Lansing, Kan.
Re-Markings
Celebrating vocations to religious life
Celebrating their golden jubilees as SCLs this year are (left to right) Sisters Eileen Johnson,
Therese Bangert, Susan Yerkich and Judith Jackson.
The summer 2013 All Community Gathering concluded with
the profession of perpetual vows by Sister Rejane Cytacki on
July 7. At the lectern with Sister Rejane are Sister Maureen Hall
(left), Community Director, and Sister Sheila Taylor (right),
Director of Sisters/Temporary Vows.
On the occasion of the profession of her perpetual vows on
July 21 in Annunciation Chapel, Sister Sheila Karpan receives
a blessing from Sister Maureen Hall (left), Community Director,
and Sister Mary Pat Lenahan (right), Director of Candidates.
www.scls.org
23
Re-Markings
Summer 2013 – a busy time
All Communit y Gathering – July 4-7, 2013
s
As part of the All Community Gathering, participants marked
the 25th anniversary of the SCL Associate Program. This
included recognition of leaders of this program: left to right,
Pat Orlowski, SCLA, first director; Sister Sharon Smith, director
of Associates from 2002-2011; Terri Butel, director since 2011;
and Sister Noreen Walter, SCLA director from 1993-2002.
The All Community Gathering
got off to a firecracker start
on the Fourth of July under
the direction of (left to right)
Sisters Rita McGinnis, Gloria
Solomon and Peg Johnson.
Father Anthony Gittins, CSSp,
PhD, gave keynote remarks
entitled “What on earth is
discipleship?” at the summer
All Community Gathering in
Leavenworth, Kan.
People were
lined up at
the crafts sale
to see what
Sister Paula
Rose Jauernig
had on hand.
Charit y Federation Meeting – June 12-17, 2013
The Sisters of Charity Federation is made up of
congregations of religious women in the United
States and Canada that trace their roots to the
tradition of Charity founded by St. Vincent de Paul,
St. Louise de Marillac and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton –
represented by the statues on display in the
meeting space. The candles clustered around the
globe symbolize international representation
among the congregations.
24
Sister Peg Johnson, SCL Community Secretary (at the podium), had a lead
role on the planning committee coordinating the Charity Federation annual
meeting hosted by the SCLs this summer in Leavenworth, Kan. Sixty-three
leaders of religious congregations that are members of the Sisters of Charity
Federation participated.
Re-Markings
Great energy characterizes
Leavenworth community meal
The extended local SCL Community has
adopted the third Thursday of the month to
serve a community meal in Leavenworth, Kan.
The first night, Nov. 21 at St. Joseph Parish, was a
roaring success, explains Sister Vickie Perkins, who
is coordinating this with the Leavenworth Needs
Task Force.
“We served 306 meals which we think is
amazing for our very first time,” she says. “There were so many wonderful volunteers from
the University of Saint Mary, Wallula Christian
Church and SCLs/SCLAs, and that added such a
welcoming atmosphere. Sister Gloria Solomon’s
piano playing and the pastor from Wallula with
his guitar brought special joy to the evening. One woman wanted to know if next time the
musicians would take requests!”
Heartland Charity Volunteers recruiting
for year of service
Now’s the time! If you are a young woman between the ages of
21 to 30, or if you know a young woman in this age range who is
interested in a year-long volunteer experience with SCL-related
ministries, visit www.heartlandcv.org. A preliminary application,
links to volunteer placement opportunities and information about
how to connect with program coordinators are easily accessible
through the website. Applications for placements are accepted from
January through June, or until all volunteer openings are filled.
Two new Associates
in the Denver area
During a ritual in Denver
in the fall, Blanca Esparza
(left) and Sandra Miley
were welcomed as two
new SCL Associates. Sisters
J. Vianney Martinez and
Mary Clarita Sternitzke
are sponsors of the two
women, who are biological
sisters. (Photo submitted by
Ron Cox, SCLA)
If we’ve overlooked an item of importance, please email ([email protected]) or mail information to
Communications, Cantwell Hall, 4200 South Fourth Street, Leavenworth, KS 66048-5054.
www.scls.org
25
Vocation Voices
Community welcomes
two new candidates
The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth welcomed Colleen Dunne and Mallorie Gerwitz as new candidates
during a special ritual, Sunday, Sept. 15, Ross Chapel. Here’s an opportunity to meet the candidates
and understand what brings them to the SCLs and what they anticipate as their ministries.
How did you
come to know
the SCLs?
Colleen: The SCLs have been present in Montana my entire life. I have always known who
they are – from their being at St. Ann’s Hospital in Anaconda and parishes and schools when
I was very young, to a strong presence in parish ministry, including Sister Eileen Johnson as
my youth minister. I also had a roommate after college who had attended University of Saint
Mary and talked about how much she loved the Sisters there. I got to know Sister Sharon
Smith better when she served as vocation director and visited students at Carroll during my
time as campus minister.
Mallorie: I came to know the SCLs during my year with the Colorado Vincentian Volunteers
and through my volunteer service at Mount Saint Vincent Home. Through this experience,
I was able to meet Sisters Melissa Camardo, Roberta Furey, Amy Willcott and Elizabeth Youngs.
I appreciated their hospitality and valued praying with the SCLs. I found it peaceful and
rejuvenating to see each of them doing wonderful work but also taking time for Community
and each other. At the end of my year of service, the Sisters invited me to live with them in
the Denver Xavier Community. It was there I got to know the SCLs better and to “try the life on.”
What is it
about the
SCLs that
impressed
you to choose
to respond
to your vocational call?
Mallorie: It was many things. When I first walked into Mount Saint Vincent Home, I was struck
by the Mother Xavier quote that adorns the hallway: “Look forward to the good that is yet to be.”
I think that touched me in a prophetic sense. It begged me to go deeper than this moment,
look farther, look at what can be, and how can I be a part of the good. It rekindled in me that
childlike wonder of I can do and be anything; I CAN make a difference. I think as I got older
I started losing touch with that, so to see the work being done, to learn about the stories
and the history of how these women are daily trying to make the world a better place, I was
deeply touched and continue to be deeply touched. I also had a call in high school but at
the time was not ready, nor did I understand anything about religious life. As I lived with the
Sisters in Denver, I saw them living out of their best selves. I was learning about the other
Sisters and some of the work they were doing, and I thought: “Wow, truly the sky is the limit on
the possibilities of ministries, service to others and opportunities for growth.”
Colleen: I felt very welcomed and encouraged by the SCLs. Sisters Sharon and Vicki
Lichtenauer (current vocation director) have always made me feel that exploring my vocation
and considering the SCLs would be a positive choice and would allow me to become part of
something that was special. I have also found the SCLs take seriously the apostolic example
of St. Louise de Marillac and St. Vincent de Paul. The Sisters are outward-focused and work to
empower others. Sometimes it isn’t always comfortable to be challenged to think of the poor
in all that we do. Nor has it been easy to make changes in my own life to get to this point. I have observed that these two saints are alive in this Community, and their examples
influence the Sisters daily.
26
s
What is it that
you hope to do
as an SCL?
Mallorie Gerwitz
(second from
right) and
Colleen Dunne
(right) receive a
blessing during
the Rite of
Welcome from
Sister Charlotte
White, a member
of the formation
house where the
new candidates
are living.
Colleen: I am really committed to serving in Montana when the time comes. I have always
been drawn to parish work, so I might possibly serve as a parish administrator. I have a deep
love for Carroll College and higher education also, so I would love to return there and work
with the students. I am also open to what is ahead and that could mean more education or
perhaps a type of ministry I haven’t even thought about yet.
Mallorie: At this time I do not know exactly where I am being called, what ministry or work
I will end up serving. All I know is I am a “Jill of all trades,” and I could end up doing many
various things throughout my life. The charism of the Sisters speaks to me with regard to
the message to “respond and change with the needs of the time.” I think that as a person I am
constantly being asked to look deeper, look within and search to see what my true gifts are,
where these gifts can best serve and how I am being my best self and bringing my best self
to the individuals I serve.
A bo u t the ca n didates
The length of candidacy for women entering the SCL Community is typically two years.
The time can be shorter or could be longer depending on several factors.
Colleen is originally from Anaconda, Mont. She has
a master of divinity from the University of Notre Dame and
earned her undergraduate degree in communications
and public relations from Carroll College, Helena, Mont.
Prior to graduate school, Colleen was director of the
annual fund at Carroll College. After graduate school, she
served as pastoral associate at St. Mark’s Church, Boise,
Idaho, for one year. She was Carroll College director of
campus ministry programs for nine years and also director
of the Helena diocesan summer camp for six summers.
During her candidacy, Colleen is working to form
relationships within the Community, meet new people,
spend time with younger Sisters and listen to the stories
of the older Sisters. She loves the history and the stories.
She is also working at the National Catholic Reporter as a
writer and in marketing which is allowing her to learn the
Catholic media world.
Mallorie is focused on learning about the SCL
history and charism and meeting Sisters in the Kansas
City area as well as working in a ministry full-time this
first year. She is the health services assistant with Mosaic
of Northeast Kansas, a faith-based organization. Mallorie
coordinates doctors’ appointments for individuals who
may have intellectual, physical and/or mental disabilities.
She also takes them to doctors’ appointments. In the past,
she has worked with children with developmental
disabilities, specifically children with autism.
Mallorie grew up in West Valley New York, a small
town in rural western New York, south of Buffalo.
Her undergraduate degree is from Nazareth College,
Rochester, N.Y. She has a bachelor of science in
communication sciences and disorders with an initial
teacher’s certification as a teacher of students with
speech and language disabilities.
www.scls.org
27
Vocation Voices
Leadership Camp fulfilling its dual purpose
T
Sister Vicki Lichtenauer works on crafts
with a participant at the summer
2013 Leadership Camp.
Gathered in Annunciation Chapel,
campers plan the liturgy that
concluded the camp with Sister
Sheila Taylor (left).
Leadership Camp specifics
• Leadership Camp is scheduled in late
June each year and is hosted by the
SCLs and the Benedictine Sisters of
Atchison. We rotate campuses.
The 2014 Leadership Camp will be
in Atchison, June 30-July 2.
• Campers must be going into sixth
through eighth grades.
• High school counselors must be going
into their junior or senior years.
• College counselors can be any grade level.
• We begin promoting the camp in
February through parish bulletins,
newspaper articles, school visits and
personal invitations.
28
by Sister Vicki Lichtenauer
SCL Vocation Director
he University of Saint Mary campus, Leavenworth, Kan., was
transformed in June 2013 as giggles, shouts and songs of sixth
through eighth grade campers filled the air. The 14th Annual
Leadership Camp co-sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of
Leavenworth and the Benedictine Sisters of Atchison, Kan., was a huge success.
To reach a more diverse population, we pursued grant funding. A grant
from the Raskob Foundation allowed partial scholarship assistance to any
family that requested it. A special thank you to Sister Ann Barton for help in
this endeavor.
Developing leaders
One goal of Leadership Camp is to provide girls and young women with
experiences to discover their leadership potential and to put this into practice.
The days are filled with team-building activities, including ropes courses,
swimming, crafts, liturgical experiences, outdoor recreation and vocation
stories. The ropes course invited each team to work together and to have fun.
We introduced a service component during crafts this year. Sister Rejane
Cytacki and Donna Cytacki, her Mother, taught campers how to make tiefleece blankets. Campers completed 13 blankets and donated them to the
Alliance Against Family Violence.
The campers and counselors joined the Sisters for morning Mass, made
colorful beaded rosaries then prayed the rosary together, helped plan and
were ministers at the closing evening Mass for their families, and participated
in nightly prayer.
A few weeks after the camp, one mother said, “I am so delighted to see the
change in my daughter. She is more positive, independent and excited about
her faith. She not only goes to Mass but is now an altar server.”
Meeting Sisters
Another goal of camp is to provide campers and counselors the opportunity
to meet and learn about Sisters. Six Benedictine Sisters and 10 SCLs helped in
various ways. This included everything from praying for the success of camp
to handling registration, recruiting counselors, giving tours of the campus
to family members when they brought their daughters to camp, popping
popcorn and providing musical entertainment.
The “Vocation Stations” are usually a popular activity at camp. Both
religious communities provide 12-minute stations the girls visit to learn more
about each congregation’s unique history and charism. This year, Sister Mary
Pat Lenahan invited her nieces to help her compose lyrics and dance moves to
a popular tune to teach the campers. The song was a hit, and you could hear
the girls singing it long after the session was over.
Overall, Leadership Camp 2013 was a great experience. The Sisters and
counselors have a good time working together, and the girls notice this. It is
heartwarming to see so many campers apply to return as counselors. We had
eight former campers come back as counselors in 2013. This camp will
continue for a good long time.
Leavenwords
Passion for teaching and a few surprises
It’s a known fact that Sister Mark Friday is a gifted educator. For 58 of her 61 years as an SCL,
she served in elementary schools. Her past students have kept in touch,
recognized her familiar voice and even tracked her down as a 66-year-old former student
did last summer in Colorado high country for a joy-filled reunion and visit.
But did you know?
• As a young woman working a
year before entering the SCLs,
Sister Mark roller skated her way
through a catalog department
filling orders for 20 pairs of shoes
in 20 minutes. She also helped
with fashion shows in another
job she had at a ready-to-wear
garment factory.
• Sister Mark and other SCLs played
ball in full habits and tennis shoes
at the Women’s Correctional
Facility in Lansing, Kan. Mother
Leo Frances Ryan had received a
request from prison authorities
for some Sisters to start a ball
team as a recreational activity
for the inmates, and Sister Mark
volunteered.
• Sister Mark has expertise in
drying, hanging and arranging
assorted plants and flowers. She
learned this horticultural skill over
two summers in Ann Arbor taking
seminars presented by a woman
associated with the University
of Michigan.
For all these diverse experiences
that she treasures, Sister Mark’s
passion has been education of grade
schoolers about life – about learning
to live with trust, responsibility,
loving and sharing all of this with
everyone they meet. She also had the
opportunity to train young teachers.
“I believed in teaching people
rather than teaching pages of books,”
she says. “I also liked to teach new
teachers to be good ‘edu-care-ers’ in
order to be good educators.”
Born in Kansas City, Kan., Sister
Mark grew up in St. Stephen’s
Parish, Kansas City, Mo., where SCLs
taught her throughout elementary
school and where she first began
thinking about becoming a Sister.
As a student at St. Aloysius High
School where the BVMs taught,
Sister Mark went to weekly holy
hours and sang in the choir. She
entered the SCLs in 1952 when the
Community’s ministries included
teaching, working in orphanages and
health care. Sister Mark came to the
SCLs with an open mind about her
ministry largely because she wasn’t
sure she was smart enough to be a
teacher. Her doubts proved unwarranted as she served through the
years in Colorado, Kansas, Missouri,
Montana, Oklahoma and Wyoming.
“I’ve never looked back thinking
about where I should have been,”
Sister Mark says. Wherever she was,
she was happy to serve.
And that remains the case now
as Sister Mark does environment in
Ross Chapel as part of the Liturgy
Team at the Mother House. She
arranges attractive visual displays to
complement the season or special
celebration – in a spirit of service
and for the glory of God.
www.scls.org
29
Beyond All Borders
SCLs continue ministries in
South Sudan
Serving in different parts of South Sudan, Africa’s newest nation,
two SCL missionaries are joy-filled about their experiences, deeply impressed
by the people and appreciative of the multi-cultural experiences.
Due to busy schedules and distance, Sisters Janet
Cashman and Patricia Johannsen rarely see one another.
But both have found their mission opportunities
enriching and fulfilling.
The two SCLs are part of the Solidarity with
South Sudan initiative. Solidarity is a consortium
of more than 200 religious congregations and the
Church in South Sudan to provide health, education
Training teachers
Sister Pat’s schedule has stepped up considerably with
people coming from all over South Sudan to receive
teacher training. “We didn’t realize that the word would
travel so fast that this is a good place to come for
education,” she says.
The response has presented challenges including
insufficient pump capacity to carry water from wells and
tanks, and lack of dormitory space. But with ingenuity
and resourcefulness, these issues have been addressed.
“What’s amazing is how accepting and non-complaining
the people are about these types of things,” Sister Pat
and agricultural training to respond to the immense
and urgent needs.
Based in Yambio in the southern part of the country,
Sister Pat is nearing completion of her third year of
ministry as a trainer of teachers. Sister Janet is completing
her first year of service as an instructor in a three-year
program that trains nurses and midwives in Wau in the
north central part of the new nation.
Sister Patricia Johannsen
30
Beyond All Borders
adds. “They are wonderful, hard workers who are grateful
for whatever we do. Our students are enthusiastic about
what they are learning.”
Sometimes classes and student teaching occur in space
with makeshift walls or under the trees. Students lack
books and resources, but they have a strong commitment
to teach. This includes those who began teaching without
any formal training during the civil war and are updating
their skills along with others who have South Sudan
secondary education certificates and are receiving college
level training.
There’s a government mandate that by 2015 every
child from age 5 should be in school. Sister Pat says that
only half of eligible children are currently enrolled and
that there’s not time to train sufficient numbers of teachers
to accomplish this. But Solidarity and the teacher training
program are already making a profound difference.
She also adds that a pastoral team travels throughout
the country to give workshops, prayer days and other
pastoral experiences especially for priests, religious
and catechists.
Training health care professionals
Sister Janet is applying her previous experience
training health promoters in South America to her
current role as an instructor of students learning to be
nurses and midwives at the Catholic Health Training
Institute. She’s teaching courses ranging from primary
health care to anatomy to gerontology. Students are using
books from 2005-2006. It’s difficult to find practicum
opportunities for them due to lack of large hospitals
in the area.
Plus, Sister Janet faces a language barrier with most
students speaking Arabic even though English is a
prerequisite for the program. She places the students in
groups where they can support and teach each other.
A greater challenge for these 24 to 37-year-olds is the
fact that because of the civil war between North and
Sister Janet Cashman
South Sudan, most didn’t have time to be children or
teenagers. Sister Janet believes that many are suffering
from post-traumatic stress syndrome. It’s been a learning
curve for her to know how to address them and their
needs. “I have never had to help individuals heal after the
type of hurt these students have experienced,” she says.
“We reconcile and help one another in prayer.”
The 10 dioceses of South Sudan send two students
per year on full scholarships to the program in which
Sister Janet is teaching. Students agree that on completion of the three-year program to become registered
nurses or midwives they will return to their dioceses
for a three-year commitment.
Sister Janet says this is different from the other mission
experiences that she’s had in terms of work, language,
culture, food and religion. “It’s been a joy to have this
whole new reality of Africa opened up for me,” she says.
www.scls.org
31
Beyond All Borders
Water filters’ impact felt
A trip to the Peruvian missions is proof positive that the Safe Clean Life-giving Water Filter Project
is working and that the simple, inexpensive filter system is purifying water for villagers in the Andes Mountains
and those living in larger cities. Likewise, a continent away in Africa, the project is taking hold in South Sudan.
In early November, the SCL Social Justice Committee
Task Force reported that 210 water filters have been sent
to Peru; 55 to South Sudan; five to Haiti; and two to the
Cheyenne Indian Reservation in Montana. Task force
members include Sisters Therese Bangert, Ann Barton,
Eileen Haynes and Marie Michael Mollis; and Associates
Kitty and Len Bronec, and Terri Butel. Sister Ann has an
important supportive role, writing grants and helping
with coordination of this project.
Credit for the information and inspiration behind
the SCL Water Filter Project goes to Len who heard a
presentation on the original Water with Blessings project
at his parish in Kansas City, Mo. This program works
through women and mothers for distribution and
sharing of the filters.
When Sister Pat Johannsen came to the Midwest for
a break from her mission in South Sudan in spring 2011,
Len arranged a demonstration of the filters for her. Sister
Pat returned to Africa with a supply. The following
January, Hermanas from Peru took filters home on a
trial basis.
“We wanted to make sure the filters were something
the people could use,” Len recalls.
The response from South Sudan and Peru was affirming!
Hermana Elena Mack requested an additional 100 filters
Kitty and Len Bronec demonstrate the simplicity of the water
filter system. The Bronecs have been pivotal to the success of
the SCL Water Filter Project.
32
At her computer in Cantwell Hall, Leavenworth, Sister Ann
Barton secured a grant as part of efforts to help fund the water
filter project.
Beyond All Borders
around the world
for Peru. This interest led to a fundraising and grant-writing effort that
netted $28,767 for the SCL Water
Filter Project. Donations came
from the SCL Community Council,
individual Sisters, Associates, family
and friends of the Community.
Catholic Human Services Foundation
awarded the project a generous
grant of $8,700 for filters and $961
for a projector for teaching purposes
in Peru.
“People’s generosity was overwhelming,” Len says. “I believe the
reason for our success is that the
need was so specific and because
people have high regard for the
who care for persons who are
marginalized.”
The filter system is relatively
inexpensive: $50 a kit. Plus, there
are expenses for printed materials,
mailing costs and buckets to store
filtered water. No price can be placed
on the benefits of the program.
“How can people live without clean
water?” Kitty asks.
Sister Ann says that the kids in
Peru really notice the difference with
filtered water. When parasites can be
avoided, the children definitely feel
better. Families don’t have to boil
water for purification. This helps avoid
accidental burns and “woody” smells
to the water, and saves expenses
associated with purchasing propane.
In Peru, the Hermanas adopt the
approach of Water with Blessings and
request that the families share their
filter system with two other families.
“People learn that accessibility to
water is a human right. The gift of
water belongs to the world,” Sister
Ann summarizes, “and we need to
share it freely.”
A young woman at a home for teenagers in Piura, Peru, demonstrates the safety of
drinking filtered water as two Daughters of the Immaculate Mary, who operate the
home, express deep appreciation to the Hermanas de la Caridad who donated the
filter system.
You can help!
Through the feast of the Epiphany, we are requesting gifts to the Safe Clean
Life-giving Water Filter Project. Making a donation in someone’s name is a
great gift-giving idea.
You can contribute by:
• Making checks payable to Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. On the
memo line, indicate: SCL Water Filter Project. Please include your
name and address to facilitate a charitable gift acknowledgment letter. Checks, cash and money orders in any amount will be gratefully accepted.
Mail your check to:
Community Director – Cantwell Hall
4200 South 4th Street
Leavenworth, KS 66048
• Donating online: Go to www.scls.org (the Community website). Click on:
Contact Us, drop down To Make a Donation; click on: Donate; make your
donation by following the steps indicated. You can specify that you are
making your donation to the SCL Water Filter Project.
www.scls.org
33
Beyond All Borders
AIDS ministry active
in Piura, Peru
What started out as a volunteer program in the 1990s has grown
into a non-profit organization dedicated to serving persons with
HIV/AIDS in Piura and the surrounding region in Peru.
H
Both Hermana Elena Mack (left)
and Carmen Perez have a long
association with the ASPOV ministry
that serves persons with HIV/AIDS in
Piura, Peru, and the surrounding area.
34
ermana Elena Mack has been associated with Asociación
por la Vida (ASPOV) since its early years including
service as a board member. She currently volunteers to
visit individuals and families affected by the disease.
Carmen Perez, executive director since 2011, says that when the
program began, ASPOV primarily served men in the 28 to 50 age
range, and an antiviral treatment didn’t exist. Treatment options are
now available, and the population is changing. Of the 490 people
served by Piura’s ASPOV agency, 198 are children either infected with
or affected by HIV/AIDS.
Four years ago, the program changed to a more focused emphasis on
working with children whose parents had died from the infection, who
are infected or who have siblings with HIV/AIDS. ASPOV has a shelter
where children who have been abandoned, orphaned or otherwise
affected by HIV/AIDS can remain until they are 18. Their physical and
behavioral health problems are addressed.
Across the street from the shelter is a hospitality house where
pregnant women with HIV/AIDS come prior to delivery or for
recovery. Likewise, other persons with the disease use the hospitality
house while in the city for treatments or as a respite. A niece of
Hermana Regina Deitchman provided funding to help develop the
hospitality house.
ASPOV also has the program in which Hermana Elena volunteers
and does outreach to persons with HIV/AIDS who are in their homes.
Hermana Elena is using this opportunity to introduce some of these
individuals to the water filters donated by the SCL Community.
An accountant by profession, Carmen’s motivation rests in the
suffering, poverty and discrimination experienced by persons affected
by HIV/AIDS. “I see the face of Jesus in each one of these people in
their suffering,” she says. “That’s why I want to continue to help.”
SCL Associates
C
Finding her niche in
contemporary liturgical art
urrently in her “Come and See Year” toward
becoming an SCL Associate, Linda McCray,
Clancy, Mont., has had connections with the
Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth for several years that
have significantly influenced her spirituality and her
direction as a liturgical artist. Her trip to Leavenworth
this past summer and participation in the All Community
Gathering, where she displayed her work, exceeded all
expectations Linda had about the welcoming, inspiring
and energizing environment she would find.
This was no surprise to Linda who was coached as a
religious education teacher years ago by Sister Patricia
Sullivan (now deceased). Or who, as a freelance graphic
designer for the Diocese of Helena, has had “many
blessed moments” working with Sisters Rita McGinnis
and Dolores Brinkel, both of whom have ministries at the
Chancery. Or whose spiritual director and SCLA sponsor
is Sister Marie Noel Bruch, whom Linda describes as “the
answer to my prayers and Jesus to me in a very special way.”
Sister Rita was the first woman religious with whom
Linda, an artist, shared her abstract spiritual paintings.
“She was very supportive,” Linda recalls. “She also
insightfully braced me for what was to come by saying
I may not find a niche for my art, and if I don’t that I
need to create one. She was so right, and I’ve been
working on creating a niche ever since.”
At Sister Rita’s suggestion, Linda contacted Father Ed
Hislop, pastor of Blessed Trinity Catholic Community,
Missoula, and chair of the Helena Diocesan Liturgical
Commission. This led to an artist-in-residence opportunity
at the parish where Linda worked with Sister Mary Jo
Quinn, liturgist. “She highly recommended that I take
the Program for Lay Ministers through the Diocese of
Helena and Carroll College which was another growing
experience for me,” Linda says.
Father Ed and Sister Rita also encouraged Linda to
attend a national conference on environment and art
for Catholic worship in 2007. She remembers that she
“felt like a fish out of water” at the conference. But
when one of the keynote speakers justified the need to
return to antiquity with religious art by criticizing
contemporary art – especially abstract art – Linda
decided to take action.
Linda McCray believes that abstract art is “language of the heart.”
“I became an advocate for contemporary art in Catholic
worship overnight,” Linda says. “I returned to my studio
and started writing and creating the publications Liturgical
Art Today and The Liturgical Artists Directory.”
Today, Linda describes herself as an artist who creates
abstract spiritual original paintings for all kinds of
sacred space. This includes liturgical, devotional and
meditative art for churches and chapels, gathering spaces,
non-denominational hospital chapels, meditation rooms,
homes and other locations. She also facilitates art-andfaith retreats and art prayer services. In addition, Linda
teaches art classes at Helena College: The University of
Montana, and sacred art online for The University of
Mary-Bismarck.
“I am an advocate for contemporary art in Catholic
worship, art-and-environment designer, art consultant
for sacred space, adjunct art professor, writer and public
speaker,” she says.
Linda is deeply inspired by scripture and sacred realities.
“I sit with scripture and spiritual thoughts until I feel
them,” she explains. “I invite the Holy Spirit to co-create
with me to bring forth the message through my heart
and hand. I create abstract art because it is the language
of the heart. It is my goal to convey the sacred from heart
to heart.”
To view Linda’s art, visit montanadesignsunlimited.com.
www.scls.org
35
Book Review
Called to live ‘newly’ in a challenging world
Schneiders, Sandra, IHM (2011). Prophets in Their Own Country: Women Religious
Bearing Witness to the Gospel in a Troubled Church. Maryknoll, New York: Orbis Books.
Insight into Vatican II changes
By highlighting many of the
changes affecting her own congregation,
the author provides deep insight into
the impact of these seismic challenges
for individual sisters, her community,
ministry and the broader Church. She
also provides a framework for those
of us who lived through these changes
as well as those who have not to better
understand the process, impact and
memory of the years following the
directives of Vatican II. Books of
customs and norms were being
reviewed and questioned in light of
renewal. There were the increased
demands of professional education
to better keep pace with the changing
needs of ministry.
world continued to evolve. As more
opportunities developed and opened
up career options, societal changes
also affected the way the world viewed
a religious vocation. Historically,
these years were also the time of the
Vietnam War, civil rights’ marches
and advancing technology. This
proved to be a time of inward turmoil,
revolution and conflict. Convents
and monasteries were not immune
to these deeply troubling events and
ideologies. Many were caught in
between with deep differences
emerging, revealing a fine fault line
or even a chasm, at times, in communication and community. Throughout
this review, Sister Sandra questions
why “adaptation persists when change
is clearly needed.”
By providing examples from her
own religious congregation, the author
retells situations where these dramatic
changes impacted individuals as well
as the entire community. These are
common experiences with which
many readers can easily connect from
their own experiences of those years.
The author observes that following
Vatican II and the mandate from the
Council documents, women religious
took the directives very seriously
(p. 74). She includes a quote from
Christopher Fry, “We live in an age
when problems are soul-sized” (p. 79).
This requires that we “fix our souls
on fundamentals” (p. 79), that we
remember the definition of Church as
the “people of God” (p. 81).
World in flux
Sister Sandra reminds the reader
that with the paradigm shift in society,
the way people thought about the
Applicable today
Ironically, Sandra mentions that
according to the registry of official
Catholic organizations in the U.S.,
Change, external and internal,
demands a lot from each person and
the world community as a whole.
In the introduction to Prophets in
Their Own Country: Women Religious
Bearing Witness to the Gospel in a
Troubled Church, Sandra Schneiders,
IHM, reminds us that even though
we live in a world of rapid change
and change is the “nucleus of life,” the
most difficult type of change involves
spiritual changes as they require a
“conversion of life” (p. 10). Sister
Sandra further reminds the reader that
to “navigate real change requires deep
roots and strong wings” (p. 11). In
responding to change and seeking new
directions, it is critical that we do not
lose sight of the basic values and tenets
of the past and our roots.
36
by Sister Mary
Pat Lenahan
over 75 percent of these organizations
were founded by religious communities.
She asks if women religious are called
“to animate and be prophetic or staff
works” (p. 103). This question is
especially timely in regard to the
recent spotlight on women religious
through the Vatican visitation as well
as the focus on the Leadership
Conference of Women Religious
(LCWR) with congregations being
“scolded for leaving schools and not
wearing uniforms” (p. 103).
In the midst of this historical
and religious context, the author’s
overriding point is that we are called
to follow the “contemplative Jesus”
(p. 170). Sister Sandra calls the reader
to a spirit of “revitalization, the
conscious process of being willing to
live newly in a new and challenging
world even when others are not new
and the world does not yet want to
change” (p. 239).
Whether a student of history or
not, some readers may discover in
this book connections with personal
experiences dealing with change in
religious life; others may appreciate
revisiting some of the documents
of Vatican II and the emotional
implications for those who lived
through the years of tremendous
change and as these directives continue
to color our response as Church. All
will recognize Sister Sandra’s candor
and zeal in explaining and nudging
to deeper reflection, contemplative
prayer and renewed spirit.
Blessings! ¡Bendiciones!
Pope Francis calls for mission zeal
This edition of Voices of Charity is bookended with mission statements.
The inside front cover regularly features the mission statement
of the SCLs and Associates.
W
ith blessings and
thanksgiving for
Pope Francis, here are
excerpts from what has
been described as the recently released
mission statement of his papacy.
(Excerpted from Synthesis of the
Apostolic Exhortation, “The Joy Of
The Gospel,” Vatican News Service,
Nov. 26, 2013)
“The joy of the Gospel fills the
hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus”; thus begins the Apostolic
Exhortation “Evangelii Gaudium,” by
which Pope Francis develops the theme
of the proclamation of the Gospel in
the contemporary world…
…The Pope invites the reader to “recover the original freshness of the Gospel,” finding
“new avenues” and “new paths of creativity,” without enclosing Jesus in our “dull categories.” There is a need for a “pastoral and missionary conversion, which cannot leave things
as they presently are” and a “renewal” of ecclesiastical structures to enable them to become
“more mission-oriented.” The Pontiff also considers “a conversion of the papacy,” to help
make this ministry “more faithful to the meaning which Jesus Christ wished to give it and
to the present needs of evangelization.”…
…He repeats that he prefers “a Church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it
has been out on the streets, rather than a Church…concerned with being at the centre and
then ends by being caught up in a web of obsessions and procedures. If something should
rightly disturb us…it is the fact that many of our brothers and sisters are living without…
the friendship of Jesus Christ.”…
…He quotes John Paul II, who said that the Church “cannot and must not remain on
the sidelines in the fight for justice.” “For the Church, the option for the poor is primarily
a theological category” rather than a sociological one. “This is why I want a Church that is
poor and for the poor. They have much to teach us.” “As long as the problems of the poor
are not radically resolved…no solution will be found for this world’s problems.”
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Consolidated
Mailing Corporation
Cantwell Hall
4200 South Fourth Street
A publication of the
Cantwell Hall
4200 South Fourth Street
www.scls.org

Voices of Charity - Winter 2014 - Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth

Transcription

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