It is a great grace that God should permit us to assist in the spread of
Transcription
It is a great grace that God should permit us to assist in the spread of
Vol. XX, No. 2 Winter 2014-2015 SISTERS OF CHRISTIAN CHARITY — WILMETTE, ILLINOIS It is a great grace that God should permit us to assist in the spread of his kingdom. (Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt, 1877) Around the Table Bread Broken Appreciation and Pride Wonderful, Wonderful It is a great pleasure to receive each issue of BREAD BROKEN providing a time to keep updated on SCC news, but most especially to recognize old friends (great photos) and reminisce about years spent together teaching, singing, laughing (lots of laughing) and perhaps an occasional cry when a family member passed on. SCCs are true “sisters” in every sense of the word. I feel proud to have been one. Carry on! - Ruby Stephens Chicago, IL My issue of BREAD BROKEN just arrived in our mailbox. I’m so happy to have it. Rita’s note about MSP is great. Thanks – and now I’m going to read the rest of the magazine from cover to cover. I am so grateful for all the hours you and so many put into this wonderful window into the world of the western region. - Marge Beane Inverness, IL Bread Broken Magazine is published twice a year by the Sisters of Christian Charity — Wilmette, IL. The publication aims to be a source of information for the Sisters, their families, friends and benefactors on the presence and ministry of the Sisters of Christian Charity. Thanks for a very good magazine. It’s wonderful to hear about your ministries and history. - Jo Stemwedel Florence, SD Recollections and Gratitude I received your kind letter and receipt for my donation to BREAD BROKEN. I look forward to reading the news of the Sisters of Christian Charity. Fondly, I recall my classes and teachers who helped me find my way through the maze of college life [Mallinckrodt College of the North Shore]. As always, they were patient and thorough in their teaching. Since graduating, I worked as a social worker for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago for the next 15 years. … While it was all tough work, I found it very rewarding. …How far-reaching is the work of Mother Pauline. - Judy Hemesath Mundelein, IL 2041 Elmwood Ave. Wilmette, Illinois 60091 www.sccwilmette.org Special Memories I enjoyed reading the piece on Sister Irma. I had her for freshman English at St. Gregory H. S. in 1955-56. - Reynold A. Boitano Arlington Heights, IL Seeing Sister Agnette was a real treat. I so remember the good times we had in Gretna, LA. - Justine Bishop Pena Warren, MI Mission Statement As Sisters of Christian Charity, our call is to witness to and share in the mission of Jesus by letting His love so permeate and fill us that our love overflows to all by being bread broken and wine poured out. Contents 4. . . . . . Meeting the Pope 14. . . . Sharing Pauline’s Vision – Recently Sr. Janice shook hands with Pope Francis. It prompted the question 15. . . . Companions of Pauline “How many other Sisters have met the 16. . . . Our Future Holy Father in person?” 8. . . . . . Potpourri 17. . . . SCCs Around the World 9. . . . . . Memories & Mirth 18. . . . Keeping in Touch 10. . . . Creative Spirit – A glimpse of artwork by several SCCs 19. . . . In Memoriam 12. . . . In & Around the Region Have you seen our website? For current events and items not published in BREAD BROKEN, and to see your favorite Sisters, please visit www.sccwilmette.org 2 Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 Sr. Mary Clement Eiden Publisher Kenneth Kaufman, Ed.D Editor A Note from the Publisher I have a book in which over the years I have put thoughts/sayings which have captured my mind, heart or imagination. I have been reflecting on one of these thoughts: “There is a calmness to a life lived in Gratitude, a quiet joy” (Ralph H. Blum). Gratitude, I believe, is a trait of those who see the glass half-full rather than half-empty. Gratitude allows a person to lead a positive life, to find and concentrate on the good, the true, the beautiful. Gratitude gives birth to the calmness and quiet joy of Ralph Blum’s observation. As the BREAD BROKEN staff worked on this winter issue, I realized once again how many people there are to whom gratitude is owed. Thank you to all of the Sisters who have sent in stories and photos for the pages of BREAD BROKEN. Without your contributions, there wouldn’t be a magazine. Many of you have also given suggestions for articles or have been supportive with words of praise and encouragement. Thank you to Dee Bayro and Lisa Bathey of Your Design Source, Inc. who are responsible for the production of BREAD BROKEN. Countless have been the hours over the years that you have devoted to making sure that our magazine has quality. (Recently, Sr. Anastasia and I sat and watched as Lisa spent quite some time working at a photo to sharpen the images, take out extraneous background and perfect the lighting. No easy task!) Thank you to Dr. Ken Kaufman who proofs each issue to find any errors that might have slipped by. Although we try hard not to give you reason to use your red pen, there is always something you catch. Thank you to our readers for sharing in our lives and ministries. It is always nice to know that so many “out there” are interested in who we are and what we do. All of you have been part of our lives in different ways. Thank you for your financial contributions and for the little notes that come our way on occasion. Thank you to Sr. Anastasia Sanford, Sr. Mary Ann Warwick and Sr. Marianne Schwer. Working with you is always a pleasure. (Sr. Anastasia always gets complimented by Lisa on the great work she does in setting up the first draft.) Cultivate a grateful heart. “If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough” (Meister Eckhart). Sr. Anastasia Sanford Sr. Mary Ann Warwick Associate Editors Sr. Marianne Schwer Financial Secretary Your Design Source, Inc. Production Cover: Sr. Janice Boyer shakes the hand of Pope Francis as Sr. Joan Daniel Healy holds his other hand. Sr. Angelika Blochwitz and Sr. Maria Angelina Rivarola also had the opportunity to meet the Pope. Photo by Osservatore Romano. Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 3 Meeting the Pope Text by Sr. Mary Clement Eiden, SCC & Sr. Anastasia Sanford, SCC | Photos courtesy of the Western Region Archives & Sisters of the Western Region October 1960: Ten SCCs were in the audience as Pope John XXIII was borne into the hall on a sedia gestatoria (the portable papal throne used on certain solemn occasions in pontifical ceremonies). The use of the sedia gestatoria was discontinued in 1978. One reason cited was that Pope John Paul II preferred to walk around to greet the people. W hen Sr. Janice Boyer returned from her trip to Rome this past May, she was filled with enthusiasm about her special meeting with Pope Francis. She had such evident joy in showing to others the pictures of her shaking his hand. So, the BREAD BROKEN staff thought that perhaps our readers might enjoy seeing some SCC meetings with Holy Fathers over the years. Sr. Anastasia looked through archival material and Sisters were asked to share any photos they might have of “papal encounters”. Here they are. I bless all their labors, every house and every individual Sister.” Then he again gave us his blessing, and we again kissed the ring of His Holiness, thanked him for his kindness and his condescension, and then departed, for there were many who were waiting to be admitted to an audience. [Mother Eduarda Schmitz, SCC – 1924] An Early Encounter Remembered On Saturday, May 31, on the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we had the great honor of a private audience with the Holy Father, Pope Pius XI. I know that you will not expect me to tell you the sentiments of our hearts when the Holy Father, the Vicar of Christ, stood before us. We knelt in a semi-circle and kissed the ring of His November 20, 1953 – Holiness. Dear Rev. Mother [Ottonia Sr. Matilde Niemann Gerdemann] then informed him of our (3rd from left) and two fields of activity, told him how many other SCCs are among Sisters belong to our Congregation, how guests at a private many are active in the over-seas missions, papal audience with how many children we instruct, etc. etc. Pope Pius XII. With perceptible delight he said: “Very many good works. Tell the Sisters that 4 Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 Young Pauline Mother Pauline’s deep respect for the Church is evident in her reply to the letter of an influential person even before she founded the Sisters of Christian Charity. On April 18, 1845 she wrote to Professor Lachmann (the director of Braunschweig Blind Asylum from whom she took lessons in the special script for the blind and other skills needed for the instruction of these children): But now, esteemed Professor, you and I disagree in a religious matter. You have attacked the Pope, and I am utterly devoted to the Pope; I am a Roman Catholic with my whole heart and soul. I am happy to observe every rubric of the Church, even the least, because I am loyal to her with my whole being; with complete conviction Foreground: Sr. Alvara Henke and Sr. Annamarie Cook greet Pope Paul I love her as the teacher of truth, and I love the VI at the time of the General Chapter in the early 1970s. Pope as our common father. Anyone who learns to know the Church and her teachings is bound to love her; he cannot but be enthusiastic about her. Wisdom and mildness are united in her to such a degree that one does Lord, in accordance with your holy will not know which of the two to admire more. She bears no and that of holy Church, let us work ill will toward anyone; on the contrary, our Savior Himself diligently for your honor, for that of your has declared what the hallmark of her true children is: “This is how all will know you for my disciples: your love holy Church, and for the salvation of for one another.” (John 13:35) souls redeemed by your precious blood. Help us to work with all our might and main. Pauline von Mallinckrodt – Retreat 1867 Beatification of Mother Pauline Many of the photos found or received were of SCCs with Pope John Paul II at the time of the Beatification of Mother Pauline in 1985. Excerpts from Sr. Gregoris Michels’ account provide some interesting information: The total number of participants at the Beatification ceremony [on April 14] was approximately 40,000 persons! On April 15 the pilgrims to Rome had a special audience with the Pope. Most of the pilgrims had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of being greeted personally by the Holy Father. These included the guests of honor seated in the first row and the large number seated on both sides of the middle aisle. We were again impressed by the Holy Father’s simplicity and the matter-of-fact way in which he dealt with each person, distributed rosaries and blessed the children. We can add with great certainty that all SCCs who have met the Holy Father – no matter which Pope they met – were truly Sr. Marcella Ripper reaches to shake the hand of Pope John Paul II as Sr. M. André Blanchard (far right) excitedly waits her turn. impressed! U Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 5 Pope (continued from page 5) Sr. Juliana Miska greets Pope John Paul II. Note the red button on her lapel. Those attending the Beatification ceremony from the USA wore red buttons; the other three colors were yellow for Germany, blue for Chile and Uruguay-Argentina, and green for Italy. Sr. Caroline Schafer greets Pope John Paul II during a visit to Rome in 1980. Sister was part of an SCC international formators group working on the “Ratio Fundamentalis” – the document outlining the basic principles of initial formation. Members of the 1991 renewal group had the opportunity to greet Pope John Paul II. Waiting to shake hands with the Holy Father were two SCCs from the Western Province: Sr. Clarice Murphy and Sr. Therese Fields (behind the man holding a child). At the Beatification Mass, Sr. Mary Martin Clark (background) had the privilege of being in the offertory procession. Sister represented the nursing ministry of the Sisters of the Western Province. The basket contained some medical supplies. Also during the Beatification Mass, Sr. Susanne Kullowitch had the honor of receiving Holy Communion from the hand of Pope John Paul II. Sister was chosen because – at the time – she was taking care of her father and so represented the Western Province’s ministry to the homebound. Sr. Angelica Hengesbach, holding the US flag, waits to greet the Pope. At the time of the Beatification of Mother Pauline Sr. Angelica was the General Councilor representing the Western Province. Although from the USA, Sr. Angelica is wearing a green button because she was living in Rome at the time. 6 Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 November 1995: New members of the Generalate – including Sr. Mary Clement Eiden at left and Sr. Cecilia Poblete (South America) – attended Mass in the pope’s private chapel and afterwards had the opportunity to personally greet Pope John Paul II. Both Sisters had recently arrived in Rome to begin their terms as members of the General Council. 2004: Sr. M. Judith Moran kneels to kiss the ring of Pope John Paul II. She was accompanying three young SCCs in tertianship (immediate preparation for perpetual vows). Their entire group was allowed to greet the pope. “He had the bluest eyes,” reminisced Sr. M. Judith. Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 7 Potpourri Memories & Mirth MSP Inaugural Event Garlic Bread and Close Community Text by Sr. Mary Clement Eiden | photo by Marge Beane Text and photos courtesy of the Western Province Archives Text taken from SCCs Touching the Heart of America On July 27, 2014 the Mallinckrodt Scholars Program (MSP) held its inaugural event at Sacred Heart Convent in Wilmette, IL. The event was planned by the MSP core team (Sr. Mary Clement Eiden, Marge Beane, Julie Kuzera, Kurt Peterson and Janet Sisler) and graciously hosted by the Sisters at Sacred Heart Convent. The afternoon began at 2:00 p.m. when guests and many Sisters began arriving. They were greeted by Julie and Marge and guided into the dining room where they were invited to meet one another while enjoying refreshments. At 2:30 p.m., Sr. Mary Clement offered a warm welcome to all and introduced Sr. M. Judith Moran, the keynote speaker, who portrayed Mother Pauline as an “extraordinarily ordinary woman”. [Thoughts from this presentation are found on p. 14.] Sisters and guests thoroughly enjoyed References to Mother Pauline’s poor penmanship elicited some Sr. M. Judith’s presentation about Mother Pauline. “identifying-with” laughter. For many in the room, this talk was their first real introduction to Mother Pauline and it was well received. Janet Sisler, Loyola’s Gannon Center Director, shared the good news that the first Mallinckrodt Scholars will be selected for the 2015-16 academic year and Kurt Peterson, Loyola’s Development Director, updated the group on the financial status of the program. Julie and Marge also enthusiastically spoke about the program; their deep commitment to it was evident. The event concluded at 3:30 p.m. with a visit to the chapel and a tour of the SCC Heritage Center for all those interested. All who visited the Heritage Center were amazed at the wealth of history so artfully arranged in a relatively small space. The core team was pleased with this inaugural event and has already critiqued it in terms of planning for next year’s event. They are hoping to widen the circle of participants. U Staying Connected With Cimarron Text courtesy of Sr. Carol Bredenkamp, SCC My love affair with Cimarron, NM began when I first taught CCD there in the summer of 1992. Since those days, I have been able to return numerous times to help with the summer Vacation Bible School. Each time I go, I bring teens or adults with me so that they can help as well. This past summer was no exception. I was able to take four delightful young women from Josephinum Academy. They helped with the VBS and had a grand time. The idea for the 2014 program was “Rainforest Adventure” and it was held in the Sister Hildegarde Smith Church Hall. Activities included praying, singing, creating a rainforest in the corridor of the church hall, doing art projects and playing games. When I asked the students about their experience, Janet told me: “Going to New Mexico was a life changing experience.” Marissa commented: “I’ve learned more about myself and where I am in my faith. It was a great experience.” They also discovered what I have known for over 20 years—that the people of Cimarron are welcoming, loving, and just wonderful people to know. I often think of Mother Pauline’s words: “It is a great grace that God should permit us to assist in the spread of His Kingdom.” I do believe that the loving people of Cimarron are truly assisting God in the spread of His Kingdom. The young ladies and I felt that we received much more than we gave. Being in touch with the people of Immaculate Conception Parish during the year via e-mail and connecting with them in the summer is a special treat. “If I had a choice, I would go again” Marissa repeated several times and this was the sentiment of each of the girls. It is a great blessing to have the opportunity to visit my beloved Cimarron, NM. U 8 Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 At St. Isaac Jogues in Niles, we were living at first in a little farmhouse. It was summer time, and my other companions who were there during the school year always went away to take summer courses. Then I would get one or two other Sisters to keep me company while they were away. That meant that we had to share the work, and, since we were not real cooks, our meals were UNUSUAL to say the least. One Saturday, the Sister whose turn it was to cook that day had put bread with garlic on to toast. Just then, the pastor came over with the new assistant to introduce him to us. All three of us stood there and talked with them while the smell of garlic became stronger and stronger and stronger. Not one of the three of us had sense enough to explain it to the visitors. We just smiled sweetly and went on talking while the garlic really assaulted everyone’s nose. Afterwards we had a good laugh about it among ourselves. Sr. Estelle Cristman Those five years spent in the little farmhouse of St. Isaac Jogues taught us some precious lessons. We were very crowded and almost on top of one another. Yet, I think that all of us who were there would say that those years were probably among the happiest years of our convent lives. We really learned to practice poverty, charity and patience. It was a beautiful time. We also had the fun of furnishing the house. We were given the most necessary things, but other things like dishes, pots and pans, curtains, etc., we had to scrounge for and save our money to buy something when we could afford it. It gave us a real sense of accomplishment, of making ourselves a home. We found out that all the conveniences we have today and take for granted, and that we have come to expect, are not the things that make for happiness. It was there in our little farmhouse that I celebrated my silver jubilee of religious life, and again, it was a unique jubilee celebration. We invited the Sisters from our other convents, and On September 12, 1957 the Sisters moved into we were all very close indeed because quarters were small and just the “little white house” (the farmhouse). In 1963 going from one place to another provided fun as we tried to pass the Sisters moved into the new convent, which one another. We had set up card tables in the community room was built above the additional classrooms. and in the enclosed front porch for our dinner. We used paper Above: Sisters enjoying a game of ping-pong tablecloths and napkins, and the main course was those little pot in their new recreation room. pies which were new on the market just then. Yes, it was different; but everyone had a good time, and I look back on it as a happy memory. Our chapel was so tiny that when we had Holy Mass, the priest and we Sisters had to literally squeeze into it. We were five Sisters and the priest, but the chapel could hold only five people. So, the celebrant and four of us managed to get into the chapel, and the fifth Sister knelt on a prie-dieu in the doorway. We always celebrated each Sister’s feastday, too. We would make up a little skit, very spontaneously, and perform it for the Sister. Naturally, it provided fun and plenty of camaraderie. U Several of the Sisters gathered for a ‘photo op’ on the patio – a special feature of their new convent. Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 9 Creative Spirit Text and several photos by Sr. Anastasia Sanford, SCC O ver the course of years, many Sisters have indulged in a bit of artistic creativity, either to decorate their classrooms or as a means of relaxation after a hard day in the classroom or office. Several Sisters have worked to develop their artistic talents through study and practice. Others have a native talent which they have used to beautify the convent. These are the Sisters whose names came to mind when the Sisters of the Western Region were asked to list Sister-artists. Working in ink, oil paints, enamel, acrylics, stained glass and other media, they have left their indelible mark on the community. U During her teaching career, Sr. DeLourdes Bragg introduced many students to the abc’s of calligraphy. Sister also taught drawing and painting to hundreds of students throughout the years. One of Sister’s students was Dan Paulos, renowned artist and calligrapher, who mentions Sister in the forward to the books “Spring Comes to the Hill Country” and “He’s Put the Whole World in Her Hands”. Sr. Clarita Loehr designed the stained-glass windows of the chapel in Villa Pauline (Eastern Province) when it was renovated. In 1971 Sr. Clarita transferred to the Eastern Province in order to be closer to her sister who was ill. Photo by Sr. Josita Marks, SCC Sr. Servatia Kreuzberger was easily the most talented portrait artist in the Western Region. Her major works depict Jesus, Mary and other Biblical figures, Popes, Cardinals and Superiors General. Left: Pope Pius IX, complete with his coat of arms above the frame. Incredibly she did many of her paintings while serving as the provincial treasurer. At right is a trio of owls. These were some of the lesser-known, non-portrait items also painted by Sr. Servatia. Sr. Theopista Bottscheller taught art at Josephinum High School for 56 years, where she had ample opportunity to practice her craft. Although, like Sr. Servatia, she had no formal art training, Sr. Theopista did have some (limited) apprenticeship experience. 10 Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 Retirement at Sacred Heart Convent has given Sr. Henrica Buchert more time to indulge in one of her favorite activities. Small canvases appear in the dining room and east entrance as they are finished. Sr. Henrica also teaches CCD, tutoring students who cannot attend classes at St. Joseph CCD Center due to scheduling conflicts. When thinking about the artwork of Sr. Mary Sakowski, the panels behind the statues of Mary (photo at left) and Joseph in our former motherhouse first come to mind. However, in the same year – 1969 – Sr. Mary designed and created two mosaics of enameled copper for Holy Family Convent in Danville, PA – the retirement home for the SCCs of the Eastern Province. Danville Photos by Sr. Shawn Donnelly, SCC Who am I in comparison with other persons who surpass me in talent, intelligence, kindness of heart, affability, in rank, worth, etc. What are all these in comparison with the beauty and the dignity of the angels. What are all these compared to God Himself, Who transcends all. Pauline von Mallinckrodt – Palm Sunday Afternoon, April 1, 1855 Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 11 In & Around the Region 200th Anniversary Summer Internship Program at SHC Text by Sr. Alice Mary Ortmann, SCC Photo by Sr. Anastasia Sanford, SCC Text courtesy of Sr. Elizabeth Ann Buscher, SCC | Photo by Sr. Lien Nguyen, LHC On June 3, 2014 the Sisters of Christian Charity worldwide began our three-year preparation for the 200th anniversary of the birthday of Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt, our Foundress. To deepen the spirit of Mother Pauline within us, each Sister in the Congregation is encouraged to read and ponder Mother Pauline’s letters which are a rare treasure and embody a rich insight into her person and spirit. The theme for each year was set by the members of the 2013 General Chapter in Rome. The first year is dedicated to “Mission and Obedience”; the second year to “Evangelical Fr. Streit shares with the Sisters his enthusiasm about religious Poverty”; the third year to “Community Life and life and Mother Pauline. Reconciliation”. Each Sister is also receiving well prepared booklets offering a weekly excerpt from one of Mother Pauline’s letters and giving thoughts and questions for reflection. During our June 2014 Assembly, Fr. David Streit, SVD led the Sisters of our Region in a day of reflection on the topic of “Mission and Obedience”. Father cited Mother Pauline’s focus on these two ideas taken from her writings: “It is my primary, yes, my only desire, that God’s will be fulfilled in me.” (1847) and “We should have an inexpressibly great heart, with nothing in it but love” (1849). Father noted that our Rule, our Charism and our Mission Statement all challenge us to live out fully the spirit of our Foundress in today’s world. A Congregational project, designated the “Pauline 200 Project”, asked for Sisters from all the Units of the Congregation to participate in a special mission activity for three weeks in July 2015. This project will take place in the needy neighborhoods of Santa Lucia and Montevideo (Uruguay) where our Sisters minister. The participants will form a Congregational group, sharing together in a community experience, a simple lifestyle and a missionary endeavor. Every Sister of the Congregation is encouraged to participate in the “Pauline 200 Project” through her interest in and prayers for the project as well as through making/obtaining needed materials and inviting donations. Sr. M. Joanne Ladwig and Sr. Carol Bredenkamp will represent the Western Region in Uruguay in July. U Through the month of July and for two weeks in August, Sr. Hue Chu, Sr. Xuan Tran and Sr. Lien Nguyen, three Vietnamese Sisters studying at Divine Word College in Epworth, IA, were involved in a Summer Internship Program at Sacred Heart Convent. The program included ministry to the elderly at Sacred Heart Convent and outreach to the poor. The on-site activities at Sacred Heart were arranged and supervised by Sr. Elizabeth Ann Buscher who noted that the Sisters “went beyond what was required of them for the three hours of credit they received”. Among the Sisters’ activities for the poor was service at a soup kitchen, a shelter for the homeless and a food pantry. They also helped with collecting food each morning. Time each afternoon was spent visiting the sick Sisters at Sacred Heart. Often, the three Sisters could be seen pushing Sisters in wheelchairs around the grounds of Sacred Heart, the SCC Center or Mallinckrodt Park. Some afternoons, the laughter of Sisters could be heard as they enjoyed bowling and toss games with balls, bean bags or hoops. On very hot days, the Sisters were brought together in the newly-renovated gazebo to sing favorite songs or to talk together. As part of the program, the three Sisters were expected to do prescribed readings, reflections and papers. Sr. Theresa Marie Tran, SCC, the director of ministry at Divine World College, had overall responsibility for the Sister-students. She visited them at Sacred Heart Convent and Sr. Hue, Sr. Elizabeth Ann and Sr. Xuan accompanied them to many of their ministry sites. When the Sisters cheer as Sr. Anne Eileen Berkel takes returned to Epworth, they were required to give a presentation to the aim at the pins. college community about their experience. The Sisters were very grateful for their experiences at Sacred Heart Convent. In a note to Sr. Janice Boyer, the three Sisters expressed their gratitude: “We would like to thank you very much for giving us a wonderful time in Sacred Heart Convent. . . . For all of the good things you and all the Sisters have done for us, we pray to God. May God bless, love and keep you all in His Heart.” U Mother Pauline Celebrated Text courtesy of Sr. Carol Bredenkamp, SCC | Photo by Sr. Mary Clement Eiden, SCC In 1890 the Sisters of Christian Charity in the Unites States opened an all-girls high school in Chicago called Josephinum Academy. When it became obvious almost a hundred years later that they no longer had as many Sisters as were needed to staff the school, collaboration with the Religious of the Sacred Heart began. The RSCJ philosophy of education was put in place and the “Jo” is now the oldest-running all-girls high school in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Sr. Carol Bredenkamp, SCC, started teaching at Josephinum Academy in Chicago in August of 2014 and with her came her great devotion to (continued on page 13) Sr. Caroline Schafer speaks before the Mass in honor of Blessed Pauline. 12 Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 Mother Pauline (continued from page 12) Mother Pauline. At a religion department meeting Sr. Carol mentioned that the school should not lose the spirit of Mother Pauline. Lourdes Weber, principal of Josephinum, who was at the meeting, decided to schedule a Mass in honor of Blessed Pauline. The campus minister, Sr. Muriel Cameron, RSCJ and Sr. Carol did the preparatory work. The Mass was celebrated on Friday, May 2 at St. Aloysius Church across the street from the Josephinum. Fr. David Streit, SVD, a friend of the SCCs, offered the liturgy. The “Praise Dancers” from the Josephinum enhanced the celebration with their dancing. There was also a special singing group. In her introductory comments, Sr. Caroline Schaefer, SCC referred to the connection between the Sisters of Christian Charity and the Religious of the Sacred Heart. Sister pointed out that if it had not been for the German government, Blessed Pauline would have entered the “Madams of the Sacred Heart”. The German government would not allow French Sisters to be in charge of a German school. Mother Pauline would not give up her beloved blind and eventually founded her own congregation. So, although collaboration between Blessed Pauline and the Religious of the Sacred Heart did not occur at this earlier time, God blessed that meeting and knew “something better” would come – the collaborative effort of the two communities at Josephinum Academy. U Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 13 An Extraordinarily Ordinary Woman 14 Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 Companions of Pauline in New Orleans Photo from the Clarion Herald | Text based on the article: “Evelyn Treuting, True Gem” by Christine Bordelon, Associate Editor of the Clarion Herald | Permission to use the photo and text granted by Frank J. Methe, Photography Department of the Clarion Herald. Evelyn Treuting, a Companion of Pauline in New Orleans, and Sr. M. Joanne Ladwig, a Sister of Christian Charity, were interviewed this past September by the Clarion Herald, the official newspaper of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, Louisiana. In 1993 Evelyn joined the Companions of Pauline, Associates of the Sisters of Christian Charity. The Sisters of Christian Charity were founded by Mother Pauline Von Mallinckrodt in Paderborn, Germany in 1849. “Living the Christ mystery fully and giving cheerful and joyful service to the poor” is the thrust of the Sisters of Christian Charity, said Sister of Christian Charity M. Joanne Ladwig, Coordinator of the Companions of Pauline in New Orleans. “These ladies have absorbed that spirit, and it’s wonderful.” Evelyn met the Sisters of Christian Charity when they taught her three children at St. Raphael School, and she loved their joyfulness. She hopes to encourage younger adults to become Companions of Pauline. “We’re trying to build up the membership of our Companions right now,” Treuting said. Currently there are eight active Companions of Pauline in New Orleans and more than 120 overall in the United States, Canada and Viet Nam. Sr. M. Joanne has ministered in New Orleans, mostly in Sr. M. Joanne Ladwig and Evelyn Treuting education, since 1992. Her last assignment was teaching at display a portrait of Blessed Pauline. St. Mary’s Academy. She is now working with the 4th World Movement to fight poverty. Companions of Pauline live their regular life of prayer and service in the home, school and workplace as they try to walk with Jesus and imitate Blessed Pauline’s example. Companions have quarterly meetings, retreats and other activities and support the ministries of the Sisters of Christian Charity in a variety of ways. For any of our readers who would like more information about becoming a Companion of Pauline, please contact Sr. Pauline Schafer: NS OF P AU Sister Pauline Schafer, SCC NIO A P L 1515 North Oakley Blvd. M Chicago, IL 60622-1850 [email protected] U E IN should have a loving relationship with God: talk with Him, share their life, ask the Lord’s advice. She admonished them: “Don’t pray, Love.” She advised them to hold hands with the Lord as lovers do and enjoy being with the Lord. This kind of relationship was nourished by daily Holy Mass and by serving Christ in the sick poor. When Pauline saw a need, she tried to help. She established a Day Care Center for the children of poor working mothers; she formed a group of young ladies to care for the sick in their homes and kept many a night vigil with the dying; she offered retreats for the lay teachers in her schools. When two blind children were brought to her Day Care Center, she took them in and immediately studied how she Text by could educate the blind. Sr. M. Judith Moran, SCC As with all humankind, Pauline had her faults also. She was at times very forceful with her brothers when discussing her spending. They felt she was spending all Mother Pauline’s life was a simple, ordinary life lived of her inheritance on the poor and the community; she extraordinarily well. As a young girl she enjoyed playing felt otherwise. She was at times too direct in speaking games with her younger brothers, most of the time with her Sisters. She often asked one of her assistants winning the capture of their imaginary fort. She was to discuss a situation with the persons involved as she unhappy with her low marks in felt it would then be done in a penmanship on her report card. In later ...though her face was gentler manner. She persevered, years she wrote to her Sisters: “Don’t however, in what she felt was be embarrassed about penmanship. It not beautiful it gave right, reminding the bishops need not be well written, I look only at that they should not interfere the heart that is speaking through the a highly favorable with the interior workings of letter, nothing else.” Pauline followed the Congregation. She had impression; her eyes her own advice in her letters—3500 of a tough love, correcting her which are still in the archives. She did Sisters when necessary. Once in showed friendliness, not organize her thoughts and so had South America she felt she had various topics in the same paragraph. been too severe with a Sister so cheerfulness, Poor penmanship was a trait of hers all she made a return trip to let her of her life. a childlike spirit and know she still was loved. Pauline’s kind spirit already showed Mother Pauline ended her life itself in her youth. When she was boundless good will. as she had lived it, in charity, thirteen she recorded the money spent humility and simplicity. She from her allowance: $1.00 to the visited all her Sisters in North Church, $2 to a poor child for a dress, and South America and Europe. She gave a last and $3.00 to a widow for food. She enjoyed her trips conference to the Sisters and welcomed a sick Sister to her Grandmother’s house, loved dancing and to the Motherhouse though she herself was ill. Finally horseback riding. At 17, Pauline fell in love with realizing her end was near, she returned to her sick bed a young man. After prayer, however, she decided and asked to have all the candles lit so that the Lord that God was calling her to religious life. would meet her in light. She surrendered her life into Pauline did not have a beautiful face, but the sister of the hands of her God as her last supreme act of love. Professor Schlueter, a personal friend, said that though One of the last pieces of advice that she gave her Sisters her face was not beautiful it gave a highly favorable was: “If true humility, love and a due fervor in prayer impression; her eyes showed friendliness, cheerfulness, reigns then we might expect God’s blessing.” a childlike spirit and boundless good will. Mother Pauline was indeed an extraordinarily Mother Pauline had a great love for the Holy ordinary woman. She lived by the simple thought that Eucharist, but she had no visions or extraordinary Love never counts, only Love counts. U spiritual experiences. She told her Sisters that they Companions of Pauline CO Sharing Pauline’s Vision Symbolism in the Companions’ logo: SC ES C A S S O C I AT Hands : Sisters welcome Associates Candle: Our Baptismal candles burn brightly. Pax symbol on candle: We follow in the footsteps of Christ. Book in background with Alpha and Omega symbols: We live Gospel values. God is our beginning and end. Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 15 Our Future SCCs Around the World Developing New Practices to Invite New Members Text by Sr. Monica Cormier, SCC; Sr. Juliana Miska, SCC; Sr. Theresa Marie Tran, SCC The work of the Vocation Commission was to review, study and recommend best practices to actively attract and invite new members to our community. At its March 14-16 meeting, the Commission formulated a dream statement and recommendations which were shared with the Region at its June assembly. The dream statement read: “Sisters of Christian Charity, a Vibrant and Alive Community of Welcome and Invitation”. The recommendation was that a Vocation Coordination Team (VCT) be formed to work with our leadership team to coordinate and implement three specific “next best steps”. Sr. Monica Cormier, Sr. Juliana Miska and Sr. Theresa Marie Tran form the Vocation Coordination Team. “It is our HOPE that all of the Sisters will experience a renewed sense of conviction and a fearless desire to continue to invite women to a life of transfiguration in the Lord.” (VCT) Implementation of the steps is moving ahead. Keys to the Future Workshop This workshop was designed by the National Religious Vocation Conference and offered the Sisters an opportunity to explore the results of a recent study on vocations to the religious life – specifically the areas of community life, visibility, communal prayer and the celebration of the Eucharist. The VCT facilitated the arranging of this workshop which took place at Sacred Heart Convent on Saturday, November 15. Develop Our Public Face To meet the digital generation, the public face of our community needs to be developed by means of social media and the SCC webpage. This step was moved forward at the meeting of the SCC Western Region Website Committee on October 11 at which there was sharing on what changes are being envisioned for this website and what program capabilities are needed to make these changes a reality. Welcome/Invitation Activities Activities to deepen our baptismal call and to birth new life need to be planned. Conversation focusing on this step is ongoing. By next issue there could be something more to report about this goal. U Day of Open Doors Text and photo courtesy of Sr. Christhild Neuheuser, SCC For some decades, the number of Religious in Germany – as in many countries of the “Western World” – has become smaller and smaller and only a few younger Religious can be seen/met in the churches and on the streets. Consequently, there are few opportunities for people to connect with Sisters/Brothers and to learn about their life. This situation challenged the DOK (Deutsche Ordenskonferenz, the conference of major superiors of women and men Religious) to plan a “Day of Open Doors”. The convents received information, flyers, pictures etc. and were invited to share ideas among the different congregations. There was a special internet-website where everyone could see the “Open Convents” and their program for the day (May 10) and also a funny movie created by a group of younger Sisters about situations in their daily life. Every week some new photos from different Sisters/Convents appeared on that website. Many newspapers carried articles about this day with the invitation: “Come and see!” About 350 convents throughout Germany participated in this (continued on page 17) Sr. Agathe Schuppert welcomes visitors to the “Day of Open Doors” at St. Josefshaus in Thülen, the home for elderly and retired SCCs of the German Province. 16 Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 Certification as a “Fair Community” Text and photo courtesy of Sr. Maria Thekla Neuel, SCC In several German dioceses, the German Confederation of Catholic Youth together with relevant lay-groups are very much engaged in action regarding ecology and fair trade. In the Archdiocese of Paderborn they have set the goal that by 2015, 100 communities join this action and be certified as a “Fair Parish (or Community)”. To become certified, there are five steps: making a formal decision; promising to buy only fair-trade coffee or cocoa; choosing (from a list) two additional areas where they will set new priorities; performing at least one public campaign, and giving ongoing information about this action in their public reports. During our assembly in autumn 2013, Sr. Anna Schwanz, Provincial Superior at the time, introduced this project in detail. At the end of the day the Sisters of the German province made their “formal decision” to join this action as it expresses in very Sr. Maria Ancilla König – current Provincial practical ways our caring and respect for God’s good creation. Superior of the German Province – accepts After lively discussion, we agreed to concentrate on the areas of the “Fair Community” plaque. food and energy. We are aware that any action cannot be implemented by all convents in the same way. In the area of food, what is important is that the awareness of fair trade purchasing will grow. If fair trade food cannot be gotten or used, then at least seasonal/regional fruits and vegetables can be bought. This might mean no strawberries in winter, no apples from New Zealand or roses from Africa. So, all the Sisters will be able to take some steps on this path. We were already on the right track with energy as great care was taken with this during the recent renovation of the Motherhouse. There is good insulation for windows and walls; environmentally friendly technology is used, e.g. solar energy in Thülen. So, we were able to explore other areas. For this, we invited a professional in the field of consumerism to give a presentation about correct and efficient heating and ventilation. The Sisters from the neighboring convents were invited for this lecture. This action fulfilled the “public campaign” requirement. In a newspaper article and during the “Day of Open Doors”, we made our “Fair Community” project public and thus met all five criteria. During a special service on May 23, we were certified as a “Fairer Konvent” (fair community). The presented plaque found its place in the entrance area of the Motherhouse. This award does not mean the end of action for us. It is an incentive to continue on the path we have begun – in accordance with and in responsibility for God’s good creation. U Open Doors (continued from page 16) outreach. Our Sisters opened their doors in four convents and many guests came. The program was varied in each house, but everywhere the guests were invited to see the house, chapel, garden etc., to have talks with the Sisters, to hear about the actual situation of the Sisters and their mission, to join in a prayer-service and to enjoy coffee and cake. The main purpose in all the meetings was the sharing with one another. The guests had many questions for the Sisters/Brothers who in turn had questions for the people. Where are religious especially needed today? What are the reasons for so few vocations? How can you live in hope and joy when there are so few younger Sisters? What is the same in religious life now as it was in the time of Mother Pauline? What can be done so that more people seek God, come to faith, love the church, and learn to pray? The “Day of Open Doors” deepened our appreciation for our life as religious. However, when the question was raised: “What would you say/do if your son/daughter would plan to enter a religious community?”, most of the mothers and fathers became very silent; some seemed ashamed or did not know what to answer. Only one response was: “I would be proud and happy.” At the end of the day many guests said: “Until next year.” Since Pope Francis has designated 2015 as the Year of Religious Life, there surely will be more “open doors” or other similar programs. U Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 17 Keeping In Touch Holy Trinity on Taylor Street Text by Sr. Anastasia Sanford, SCC Photo courtesy of the Western Region Archives Among the mail received in the Bread Broken office, one letter caught the eye of our publisher. Mary Lou (Wienke) Trudeau wrote: “Why don’t you put something about Holy Trinity School on Taylor St. in your magazine?” We are happy to oblige you and all of our readers who are familiar with this venerable school. The convent annals begin, “In the year 1886 toward the end of February, our congregation began a second mission in Chicago...” The parish – for German-speaking people – had been established only three years earlier. The school opened with 60 children; by 1890 there were 200 children enrolled in the school. Class for the deaf, October 7, 1958. The Sisters’ first residence was a small cottage which was moved to church property. In 1894 a new rectory was built. A 2nd story was added to the former rectory and the Sisters moved into that building. Records show a decline in the number of pupils from 1899-1910 due to rumors that the parish would be dissolved because of the development of the Medical Center. By 1928 the neighborhood was no longer German, and English was used in all public schools. In 1931 the Sisters began religious instruction for public school children of the parish. In 1941 the Illinois State Legislature set aside a 300-acre area known as the Medical Center District. The November 1957 parish history described the changing situation. “At the present time there is not much more than two blocks of homes left of what constituted the Parish of the past. Towering over the little Church are huge buildings of the institutions around it. Many people have been unaware of the little Church even though they have been working or going to school in the Center.” (Holy Trinity Parish celebrated its final liturgy on June 30, 1990). A new endeavor was begun in 1957: classes for blind and deaf children. The Center for the Blind was transferred to St. Raphael School in 1959. This transfer was made to save on bus transportation for the Catholic Charities Program because a greater number of blind children were located in that area. In 1960 the new school was constructed. Six years later enrollment increased to 300 students due to the closing of St. Charles School. The Sisters of Christian Charity left the parish in 1975, ceding their work to the newly-established Sisters of the Living Word. In 2001 the school was renamed Children of Peace Catholic School – the result of the consolidation of four schools. Today the school represents a microcosm of Chicago’s diversity. U Sr. Mary Cletus Sesterhenn died in the early hours of July 14. Aurelia Sesterhenn was born in Gross Point (which became part of Wilmette in 1924) on December 11, 1919. She completed her grammar school education at St. Joseph School in Wilmette, IL. Aurelia then attended Mallinckrodt High School for four years. On September 12, 1937 Aurelia entered the convent. Her older sister Lidwina (Sr. M. Vincent de Paul – dec.) had entered in 1934. Aurelia was admitted to the novitiate on August 21, 1938. On August 21, 1940 she made her first profession of vows, and on August 20, 1946, her perpetual profession. From 1940-1952 Sr. Mary Cletus taught primary grades in Detroit, MI. In 1952 she earned a degree in physics. In 1964 she completed her Master’s degree in the teaching of physics. Teaching at the high school level took her to New Ulm, MN; Chicago, IL and LeMars, IA. From 1964-1969 Sr. Mary Cletus taught summer classes at Mallinckrodt College in Wilmette, Marillac College in St. Louis and Assumption College for Sisters in Mendham, NJ. For 15 years she taught math and chemistry at Mallinckrodt College. In 1991 she was hired to manage the branch of Beck’s Bookstore serving the Loyola University Chicago Mallinckrodt Campus. In 1998 Sister moved to Sacred Heart Convent where her outgoing, cheerful character was evident as she served as volunteer coordinator, part-time receptionist, Bingo caller and coordinator of videos shown on “movie night”. U 18 Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 In Memoriam In Memoriam Sr. Marina Bengal On May 4, as the Sisters at Sacred Heart Convent were gathering in the dining room for a jubilee celebration dinner, Sr. Marina was taking her place at the heavenly banquet. Margaret Bengal was born on July 27, 1911 at Westphalia, MI. In 1928 Margaret entered the postulancy of the Sisters of Christian Charity. She wanted to enter at age 16 but her mother held her back, saying she was too young. On June 29, 1929 Margaret was invested and given the name Sr. Marina. On June 29, 1931 she made her first vows. It was a doubly joyful day for her – earlier that day her sister Regina had been invested, receiving the name Sr. Agnette. On August 28, 1936, Sr. Marina pronounced her final vows. During these years two older sisters joined the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ – one in September 1928 and the other in September 1932. Sr. Marina’s ministry of teaching took her to Detroit, MI; Bellefontaine, OH; Sioux City, IA; Riverdale, Wilmette, Clarendon Hills and Prospect Heights, IL; Chaska, MN; St. Louis, MO and New Orleans, LA. In 1983 her “second career” of sewing for the Community began in earnest. Her talented hands measured, sewed, altered and fitted habits for many of the Sisters in the Western Region. “Our most treasured memory of Sr. Marina,” commented one Sister, “was her sweet smile. She always had a smile for everyone she met.” U Sr. Dorothy Ivory died peacefully on May 28 at Sacred Heart Convent while the Sisters prayed at her bedside. Dorothy Ivory was born on May 7, 1928 at Bellefontaine, OH. On August 12, 1942 Dorothy entered the candidacy of the Sisters of Christian Charity. She completed her high school education at Maria Immaculata Academy. On August 21, 1945 Dorothy was invested and given the name Sr. Caroleen (she later returned to her Baptismal name). On August 21, 1947 she made her first vows, and on August 20, 1953 she pronounced her final vows. Sr. Dorothy taught in various schools in New Ulm, MN; Chicago, Clarendon Hills and Wilmette, IL; New Orleans, LA; Detroit, MI; Chaska, MN and St. Louis, MO. In 1983 Sr. Dorothy embarked on a new ministry: Coordinator of the Learning Center at St. Joseph School in Wilmette. She undertook another new ministry in 1989, working at St. Aloysius CCD Center with Sr. Lillian Lang (dec.). When Sr. Lillian retired in 1996, Sr. Dorothy took over the role of Coordinator of the St. Aloysius Religion Center. In 1999 Sister Dorothy focused her efforts on the parish’s Poor Ministry. Sr. Dorothy retired from active ministry in 2007. Soon after her arrival at Sacred Heart Convent she found her niche as part-time receptionist Many Sisters remember her as a very generous person with a “heart of gold”, willing to help anywhere she could. U Ronald Cormier Uncle of Sr. Monica Cormier Mary Jane Dreger Sister-in-law of Sr. Irma Dreger Florian Eder Brother-in-law of Sr. Mary Ann Poppler Paul Fox Cousin of Sr. Pauline Schafer and Sr. Caroline Schafer Peter Carl Frasch, Sr. Uncle of Sr. Mary Clement Eiden Florence Funk Sister of Sr. Phyllis Zierden Mary Kay Geimer Mother of Sr. Marlene Geimer and Sr. Eileen Geimer, SLW former SCCs Desmond Gunawardana Nephew of Bridget Fernando volunteer at SHC Kathy Kaepernick Aunt of Sr. Anastasia Sanford Maria Hue Nguyen Aunt of Sr. Theresa Marie Tran Margaret O’Donovan Mother of Rev. Martin O’Donovan, Pastor of Sts. Faith, Hope and Charity Parish John Schafer Cousin of Sr. Pauline Schafer and Sr. Caroline Schafer Raymond Schmieg Brother-in-law of Sr. Mary Ann Poppler Rev. Albert Schwer, CP Brother of Sr. Marianne Schwer and Sr. Rosemary Schwer Jeanne Thome Wife of Bill Thome – friend of the SCC Joyce N. Turk Companion of Pauline – Original member Ethel Wentink Former SCC Amadee Wohlschlaeger Brother of Sr. Marianna Wohlschlaeger (dec.) and Sr. Michael Wohlschlager (dec.) Bread Broken Winter 2014-2015 19 Bread Broken Sisters of Christian Charity 2041 Elmwood Ave. Wilmette, IL 60091 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Palatine IL P & DC Permit No. 7133 Holly and Ice Photo by Sr. Anastasia Sanford, SCC