New Leaves - Sisters of the Holy Cross

September/October 2003
Sisters vote online .................................... Cover
Voices
Editorial ......................................................... 2
Directions
Pre-International Assembly in Bangladesh ....... 3
Area I Pre-International Assembly ................... 4
Sisters rediscover Holy Cross heritage ............. 5
Sisters respond to
online elections
with customary
pioneer spirit
n this first experience in
Congregation history with
electronic voting, Sisters
of the Holy Cross have responded with ingenuity and general good cheer to the
methods of voting via the Congregation’s Web site.
Beginning with the submission of nominations on August 15 through actual
voting on the First Ballot, which went “live” on September 17, sisters from all Areas
have found a way to get their votes submitted online, whether in person or by proxy;
and the voter “turn-out” has been surprisingly high. (See actual statistics by Area,
next page.)
See the back page of Life Signs for a few of the responses that have come in. ❦
I
Branches:
Holy Cross Around the World
CSC committee addresses Hispanic experience . 7
Saint Agnes Parish celebrates centennial ......... 8
Eastern Cluster affirms our elder journey ........ 9
Pennsylvania parish bids farewell to sisters ... 10
Blue-ribbon effort for California sisters ......... 11
Leaves:
Sisters in Ministry
Nota Bene
Sister Agnes Anne (Roberts) .................... 11
Sister Kevin (Jones) ................................ 12
Sister Linda Kors ..................................... 12
New Leaves:
Formation
Sister Lilia embarks on a holy adventure ....... 13
“Come and See” hospitality .......................... 15
New beginnings for Verónica ........................ 17
Sister Elizabeth Tusiime’s cousin ordained ...... 17
Reflections
Bangladesh: picture, poem and song ............. 18
Advancing the Mission
Fund-raising activities report ........................ 19
AT LEFT: Sisters Louis (Stifter) (top) and
Lauretta Kearney (bottom) step into the Online
Voting Area of the Web site to vote for Chapter
members.
ABOVE: In Bangladesh, Sisters Rani Catherine
Gomes and Taposi (Gomes) cast their ballots.
more photos on page 20
Voices
2
t mid-year this year, July 15, a third of the
Congregation said they either had no access
to a computer or the question “was not
applicable.” A hefty 69 percent reported that they seldom
ventured into the Members Area of the Congregation Web site.
How quickly the cyber-scene has changed in the
worldwide community of the Sisters of the Holy Cross!
When Congregation Communications undertook its
second E-Communications Survey in January, little did we
know that the Election Committee would soon throw the
entire Congregation into cyberspace at warp speed.
On July 18 the committee’s election packet went out.
From then on, we have witnessed an exciting technology
take-off by the Congregation worldwide into new skills, new
ways of thinking, and new and creative ways of participating
in the online community that has been established. Shortly
after the first call to action, i.e., the list of nominees, was
posted, a full 88 percent of the Congregation had submitted
their nominations online—either in person or by proxy.
[See Online Action Statistics by Area, below.]
The Sisters of the Holy Cross have pioneered yet another
means of building community by creating a “virtual community” for themselves through the Congregation Web site and
electronic mail.
The “movers and shakers” behind this endeavor have
been many. Some might say that the system “shakers” were
the Integration Task Force members, who set the six-month
December deadline for electing Chapter members; and the
members of the Election Committee, who knew they had
A
ONLINE ACTION STATISTICS BY AREA
after posting of the Nomination Form, August 26, 2003:
Area I - Voters: 90
Area II - Voters: 88
Area III - Voters: 41
Area IV - Voters: 64
Area V - Voters: 124
Area VI - Voters: 27
Area VII - Voters: 20
Area VIII - Voters: 61
L
S
Votes In: 78
Votes In: 76
Votes In: 35
Votes In: 61
Votes In: 111
Votes In: 23
Votes In: 17
Votes In: 57
Percent Voted: 86.67 %
Percent Voted: 86.36 %
Percent Voted: 85.37 %
Percent Voted: 95.31 %
Percent Voted: 89.50 %
Percent Voted: 85.19 %
Percent Voted: 85.00 %
Percent Voted: 93.44 %
NOTE: Deadline for
next issue is November 1.
Members of the election operations team at Saint Mary’s prepare individual
voting codes for the election packet mailing in July. (Clockwise, beginning left:)
Sister Kathryn Callahan and Carolynn Landgrebe, Archives; Sister Margaret
Ann Nowacki, Congregation Communications; Jeff Uryga, Information Services,
Sister Theresa Diane Streif, Election Committee member; and Louise Koselak,
Communications. Members of the operations team not pictured are: Ben Rogers,
Information Services; Barbara Wade, Communications; Mary Wilkes, Sister
Marilyn Zugish’s office; and Linda Wolfe, President’s Office.
to be creative and daring in their thinking to fulfill their mandate.
The “movers”—the Information Services and Congregation
Communications teams, the support staff and Election Committee
members based at Saint Mary’s—these people have their own stories
of courage and creativity to tell. This core operations team put the
technology in place, communicated the process, and tweaked the
online system for continual user-friendliness as the online process
has unfolded. The 10-plus individuals on the team know that the
project’s successes to date have been due, not to any one or two
individuals, but to attitudes of mutuality, inclusivity and collaboration which every team member has brought to this joint work.
The Congregation has come a long way from July 15 in its use of
the World Wide Web as a communication tool. And perhaps the most
important result of all has been the willingness, and the enthusiasm, with
which Sisters of the Holy Cross of all ages and cultures have “crossed
boundaries” to change the way they communicate with one another—
boundaries of technology, communications and comfort level.
Such is the spirit required to “create community wherever
we are. . . .” ❦
Life Signs is published six times a year for all members of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. News
items, draft articles and suggestions are welcome. Items must be in the Communications Office by the beginning
of the month preceding publication to assure inclusion and may be edited for length and clarity. Send signed,
dated materials to: Life Signs Editor, Sisters of the Holy Cross.
The Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross
201 Bertrand Hall—Saint Mary’s
Notre Dame, Indiana 46556-5000
Sister Aline Marie (Steuer), CSC, President
Barbara Wade, Editor
PHONE: (574) 284-5728 • FAX: (574) 284-5577
http://www.cscsisters.org
Directions
3
Pre-International Assembly in Bangladesh; sharing, praying and reflecting
by Agnes Rozario, CSC
Members of a reflection group share their thoughts. (Clockwise, beginning left:) Sisters Monju Corraya, Shiuli Gomes
(partially hidden), Taposi (Gomes), Rose Bernard (Tarleton), Joann Havelka, Molly Jacob and Maloti Maria Palma
fter many hours of preparation, the
moment for the Pre-International
Assembly in Bangladesh arrived on
September 1 and 2. Opening with morning prayer, the
assembly followed the theme of “Interconnectedness,”
prepared for these days by the Liturgy Committee.
Fifty-six Area members participated in the two-day
reflection. Sisters Aline Marie (Steuer), president, Joan
Marie Steadman, Area partner, and Janet Roesener, CSJ,
Chapter facilitator, were with us through the reflections
and rituals of the assembly. We divided into groups of
seven with an icon at each table representing an insight
into the theological reflections. This icon was part of
the identification tag for each member.
In the two days, we moved through a rhythm of
sharing, prayer and reporting. During the afternoon
of the first day, the entire Area participated in a ceremony
of reconciliation, a time to process feelings. It was a
peaceful time for all the members.
From our personal reflection sheets, we chose two
and again shared so that all would capture the holiness
of the moment, strengthening our bonds. The second
day we discerned five calls from God that we heard
A
Life Signs
■
during the time of preparation, reflection or at that time
of coming together.
The time ended with a liturgy of fire giving us
the opportunity to reflect, hope and pray for the gift
of God’s creative fire of love and zeal. This was followed
by a cultural evening of song and dance. Thus we concluded two full days of vigor and enthusiasm. ❦
Sisters Mitali Mree (left) and Arpita Bernadette Rozario present
a report while Sister Aline Marie (Steuer) takes some notes at the
Pre-International Assembly in Bangladesh.
September/October 2003
Directions
4
Area I Assembly last Pre-International Assembly to meet and determine “calls”
by Joseph Cecile (Voelker), CSC
Area I members break out into work groups at Pre-International Assembly (clockwise, beginning left): Sisters Suzanne
Brennan, Phyllis Golab (partially hidden), Mary Brynes, Martha Nesser, Evelyn Joyce Metro, Ellen Mary (Taylor) and
Patricia Ann Thompson.
T
he eighth and last Pre-International Assembly of the
Congregation took place at Saint Catherine by the Sea,
Ventura, California, September 12-14. Ninety-six sisters
from the states of Washington, Idaho, Utah, Colorado and California
gathered to be led by facilitator Sister Janet Roesener, CSJ, to name the
significant learnings, actions and behaviors emerging from the theological
reflections of the past two years.
It was not without lively exchange and some “wordsmithing” that Area
I determined five calls-to-the-community and sealed them into its box for
The Saint Catherine’s “Kitchen Band,” conducted by Sister Vibiana (Weber),
provides a note of hilarity for the Area I Assembly. “Musicians” shown left to
right: Sisters Phyllis Golab, Christian (Koch), Dorothy Marie (Langlois),
Josephine Marie (Mariano) and Mary Margaret Koester
Life Signs
■
the International Assembly to be held at Saint
Mary’s in November. Top priority for most of the
sisters was “to explore and plan for the implications
and impacts of being and becoming a truly
international congregation.”
The Assembly was highlighted by the feast
of the Triumph of the Cross, anticipated on
Saturday, September 13, with Mass presided by
Rev. James Blantz, CSC, and honoring Area I’s
Golden Jubilarian, Sister Elizabeth Panero.
Entertainment by Saint Catherine’s own “Kitchen
Band,” led by Sister Vibiana Weber, and by
“Jericho Rose,” a humorous biblical TV news report
given by candidate Verónica Fajardo and Sister
Lilia Martínez, followed the feast day dinner.
Before lunch on Sunday, the Assembly heard
reports given by Sister Yvonne Hatt on her
summer LeMans workshop and by Area I’s
Vocation Team, Sisters Dolores Jean Bray,
Miriam Joanne (Frankenfield) and Joanne
Bauer. The Assembly closed with a missioning
ceremony led by Coordinator Sister Patrice
(McGee) and Councilors Sisters Patricia Riley
and Catherine Kamphaus. ❦
September/October 2003
Directions
5
Sisters rediscover Holy Cross heritage and spirit
workshop on the spirituality
The Heritage and Leadership
of leadership. Sisters
Development Program, held
Eileen Flavin, Frances
at Saint Mary’s this summer
B. O’Connor, Jeanette
from July 1 through 12,
Fettig, Joy O’Grady, Joan
let newer sisters rediscover
Marie Steadman, Linda
together the history and
Bellemore, Olivia Marie
ongoing spirit of the
(Hutcheson), Rose Anne
Congregation. Seminars,
(Schultz)
and Veronique
workshops and other
(Wiedower) also contribactivities also gave them
uted interesting, interactive
the opportunity to develop
sessions to the program.
and practice skills in key areas
And tours of the University
of leadership development.
of Notre Dame campus,
Guest presenters for
festive meals together and
the 11-day program
much-needed visiting with
included Sister Aline
Participants
in
the
Heritage
and
Leadership
Development
Program
held
in
each other made the week
Marie (Steuer) on systems
July at Saint Mary’s include (l to r:) Sisters Angelica Birungi, Dana Michelle
thinking; Archives staff
Sullivan, Barnita Scholastica Mangsang, Monju Corraya (kneeling), Sharlet memorable.
Participating in the
Sisters Kathryn Callahan, Ann Wagner, Shiuli Gomes and Patricia Ann Carroll.
program coordinated by
Campion (Kuhn) and
Leadership
Team
members
Sisters
Joan
Marie Steadman and
Mary Jeanne Finske on history and heritage; Sisters Charlotte
Veronique (Wiedower), were Sisters Angelica Birungi,
Marie Bayhouse, Georgia (Costin) and Marilyn Zugish on
Barnita Scholastica Mangsang, Dana Michelle Sullivan,
Holy Cross at the turn of the 20th century, “Moving Abroad”
Monju Corraya, Patricia Ann Carroll, Sharlet Ann Wagner
and “Coming of Age in the 1950s” respectively. Sisters Mary
and
Shiuli Gomes. Here are a few of their comments:
Ellen Vaughan and Judith Anne Beattie presented a day’s
Sister Sharlet Ann Wagner:
The Leadership Development
and Heritage Program was an
enriching, life-giving experience
for me. The most valuable part
of the experience was the opportunity to deepen relationships with some
newer members from around the world whom I had met
previously, and to meet some others for the first time. It’s so
important, if we’re going to work together in the future, for
us to come to know each other now. It’s also enlivening for
those of us from countries with few newer members to have
opportunities to reach out and gather with newer members
from around the globe. The organizers put us together in the
Guest House, and this was a great help. We were able to relax
together in the evenings and come to know one another in a
more informal setting.
The topics for the program were well chosen, and I
appreciated the variety of topics covered. I think we were all
very appreciative of the quality of the presentations, and the
obvious thought and effort that each of the presenters put into
preparing her talk. Each of us participating in the program is
already a leader in her ministry, and we found that the topics
we covered will be useful to us as leaders in any setting. At the
end of each presentation I found myself wishing that we had
more time to go into each topic in greater depth.
I felt that I came away from the experience with a
deepened appreciation of our Holy Cross heritage, and a
better understanding of what makes a good leader. I’m
grateful to Joan and Veronique for planning and organizing
such a good program, and grateful to the Congregation for
offering us opportunities like this to come together with one
another and further develop our skills.
continued on page 6
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
Directions
6
Sisters discover Holy Cross heritage and spirit, continued from page 5
Sister Angelica Birungi:
Sister Dana Michelle Sullivan:
It was a wonderful
I appreciated participating
experience whereby the seven
in the Leadership Development
of us as new final professed
and Heritage seminar because it
members of the Congregation
helped me understand that we all
had a two-week program of
contribute our gifts in varying
learning and sharing with one
ministry and community settings,
another at the motherhouse at Saint Mary’s.
and that we can use those gifts more effectively and
As the body is made up of several systems, so is our
efficiently to bring about more change and direction in
Congregation as well, in the various nations from where
those settings and in congregational ministries.
each of us comes! Our president, Sister Aline Marie, led
I felt that we tried to listen to each other deeply in
us through systems of thinking. Whatever the system,
our interactions in the seminar; and yet, understanding
there is the presence of destruction. Thus, we have to
one another’s perspective and experience as we grow in
think globally and act locally wherever we are, care for our
our understanding of internationality will continue to
Mother Earth, and shape our Congregation accordingly.
be a challenge.
As we entered into our heritage, we see Father Moreau
Reviewing the heritage of the Congregation brought
still guiding and directing the destinies of his religious
me a sense of perspective of being part of a history of
family today, and his leadership teaches us to be Christwomen taking leadership in the Church, as well as a
centered persons as we collaborate with one another.
reminder to elect leaders who take risks with both
Our Mother Angela laid foundations for our
planning and prudence.
Congregation in the United States, and we visited
The conference gifted us with such a wide variety
some of the sites, including Bertrand and Silver Creek,
of presentations facilitated by so many sisters willing to
Michigan, where our sisters first served.
share their talents and experiences. I felt most of the topics
We learned that Mother Augusta, our first superior
could be deepened and shared in other settings, as many
general, carried on the
are invaluable to us in
vision of Father Moreau
ongoing formation; i.e.,
and from then onward
spirituality of leadership
carried Holy Cross to
and dialogue and conflict
other places. We are
management skills. I was
what we are because of
also grateful to learn a
the past. Our history
practical new skill such
tells it all when you go
as putting a Power Point
through the archives.
presentation together!
Some of the places
I hope the leadership
founded 200 years ago
of the Congregation
are no longer in existcontinues to find ways
ence; the critical period
to bring members of the
is now, as we tell and
Congregation together
listen to the stories of
for learning seminars to
the path traveled to build
develop our talents and
the future. The journey
get to know each other
continues for us to reveal
across cultures. ❦
“Holy
Cross
Heritage”
participants
enjoy
a
cross-cultural
educational
activity
and see the face of Christ
called miniature golf on one of their summer afternoons at Saint Mary’s.
in our community and
(L to r:) Sisters Monju Corraya, Sharlet Ann Wagner, Dana Michelle Sullivan
ministry.
(putting), Shiuli Gomes (hidden), Joan Marie Steadman and Barnita
Scholastica Mangsang
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
Branches: Holy Cross Around the World
7
CSC committee addresses the reality of the Hispanic experience
by Mary Ann Pajakowski, CSC
T
he members of Our Lady of Soledad
Parish and the Valley Missionary Program
in Coachella, California, rolled out the
red carpets again and again for the Holy Cross sisters
(Marianites, Canadian, United States), brothers, priests,
and lay associates of Holy Cross at the annual meeting
of the Holy Cross Hispanic Ministries Committee,
July 23-27.
Sisters of the Holy Cross serving on the 26member committee are: Sisters Aline Marie (Steuer),
Clare Alfred (Bill), Emeline (Cunningham), Francis
Christine (Alvarez), Guadalupe (Cárdenas), Joan
Mader, Mary Ann Pajakowski, Nancy Pewterbaugh
and Patricia Ann Thompson.
After a welcoming barbeque, the committee
devoted its time to in-service topics, experiencing the
reality of the local area, and learning the characteristics
that are particular to Holy Cross ministry with Hispanics
to better support Hispanic ministry in the church.
Father Pepe Martelli, CSC, of the Valley
Missionary Program (VMP), Father John Connor,
CSC, of Our Lady of Soledad Parish, and parish
member Laura Lopez presented an overview of the
present Hispanic reality. Father Connor based his
presentation, “Encuentro and Mission: A Renewed
Pastoral Framework for Hispanic Ministry,” on
a statement from the U.S. Conference of
Catholic Bishops.
The document encourages a “new phase” for
Hispanic ministry to include development in three
fundamental areas: strengthening ministry structures
and networks such as diocesan and regional levels and
pastoral institutes; relationship building with ethnic,
racial and ministerial groups and organizations; and
fostering the active participation of Hispanic Catholics
in the social mission of the church. Growing numbers
in the U.S. Church make it imperative to address the
reality of the Hispanic experience.
The committee also participated in a mini retiro
(retreat) based on the VMP’s four-day event. Developed
by Father Jose Pawlicki, CSC, these retreats focus on
discovering the special relationship and the love and
regard Christ has for each person. Father Pawlicki, now
deceased, believed that the discovery of God’s unconditional love must precede any catechesis, service or other
Life Signs
Members of the CSC Hispanic Ministries Committee Sisters Patricia Ann
Thompson (third from left, hidden), Mary Ann Pajakowski (fourth from right),
Francis Christine (Alvarez) (second from right) and guest Sister Dana Michelle
Sullivan (left) enjoy the hospitality provided by Our Lady of Soledad parishioners
and members of the Valley Missionary Program in Coachella, California.
aspects of parish life. Persons who make the retreats are misioneros; they
continue the spirit of the experience through their weekly communidade
de base (base community meetings), during which they share how they
meet Jesus in their daily lives, pray and reflect on the scriptures. There
are 108 such communities in the VMP, and the program is overseen
primarily by laypersons working with Father Martelli. The VMP
program and its roots in spirituality are described in a recent book by
Dan Groody, CSC, titled Border of Death, Valley of Life.
The next meeting of the Holy Cross Hispanic Ministries Committee
will be held in South Bend, Indiana—dates and details to be announced.
New officers are Holy Cross
Brothers Joe Esparza, CSC, and
Carlos Parilla, CSC, who both
serve as chairs; Father John
Korcsmar, CSC, treasurer; and
Charlotte (Carlotta) LeBoeuf,
MSC, secretary. The committee
also elected its first lay member,
Aniceto Armendariz, who works
with Holy Cross Ministries of
Utah and is a deacon candidate
for the diocese of Salt Lake.
For more information
on the Holy Cross Hispanic
Ministries Committee, contact
Sister Patricia Ann Thompson (right)
and a gaily-dressed parishioner kick
Father Korcsmar at
up their heels at one of the many fiesta
[email protected]. nights held during the four-day retreat
❦
of the Valley Missionary Program.
■
September/October 2003
Branches: Holy Cross Around the World
8
Saint Agnes Parish celebrates centennial
by Brenda Cousins, CSC
choir for the day. The songs
and prayers of the Mass were
in Spanish, English, Korean,
Tagalog and Latin. Sister Lilia
Martínez not only joined the
choir, but also spoke at all
Masses the two previous
Sundays to encourage people
to bake cakes for the event.
The goal was to have 100
cakes for 100 years. A total
of 150 cakes arrived on
Sunday morning! Sisters
Brenda Cousins, Sarah
Marie Schmitt, Maryanne,
Lilia and candidate Verónica
Fajardo also contributed their
Sister Patricia Ann Thompson, serving as homilist for the multicultural Mass, joins the parishioners of
Saint Agnes as they celebrate the parish’s centennial on August 3.
homemade cakes.
The sisters of the Holy
aint Agnes Parish commemorated its 100Cross have an 89-year history at Saint Agnes Parish in
year anniversary August 3 with a celebratory
Los Angeles, mostly serving at Saint Agnes School. Sister
multicultural and multilingual Mass on the
Maryanne O’Neill currently serves as director of the
patio of Saint Agnes School. Fifteen Sisters of the Holy
Brother André Center. This center was begun by Sister
Cross were present for the celebration, including five
Patricia Ann Thompson and continues to serve the needs
sisters and one candidate who currently live at Saint Agnes’
of the surrounding community. Saint Agnes’ Convent is
Convent. Among them were: Sisters Patrice (McGee),
the formation community of the North American NoviArea I Coordinator; Karla McKinnie, former principal
tiate and the North American Candidate program. ❦
of Saint Agnes School; Sebastian (Adza) and
Rose Virginia (Burt), former students; Francis
Christine (Alvarez), Dana Michelle Sullivan
and Veronice (Fisher), former Saint Agnes
teachers; and Joanne Bauer.
Sister Patricia Ann Thompson and
Father William Delaney, CPPS, a former
Saint Agnes pastor, were homilists for the
liturgy. After communion, three parishioners,
representing the African-American, Latino
and Korean communities, gave reflections on
their experiences of community at Saint Agnes.
Sisters Roberta Bennett and Francis Christine
were among the parishioners who brought up
gifts at the Offertory.
Sister Maryanne O’Neill and parishioner
Enjoying the Saint Agnes centenary celebration are (seated, l to r:) Father William
Alex Venegas were instrumental in bringing
Delaney, CPPS, candidate Verónica Fajardo, and Sisters Karla McKinnie, Lilia
together all the parish choirs into one special
Martínez, Francis Christine (Alvarez) and Dana Michelle Sullivan.
S
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
Branches: Holy Cross Around the World
9
Affirming our elder journey
by Kathleen Weber, CSC
“We must all pass through
a gate of transformation
to move from age-ing to sage-ing.”
~Rabbi Zalman Schacter-Shalomi,
founder of the Spiritual Eldering Institute
S
ister Linda Bellemore, a wellness educator
and faculty member of the Memorial Sage-ing
Center in South Bend, Indiana, introduced the
Sisters of the Eastern Cluster to Rabbi Zalman SchacterShalomi and his principles on “sage-ing” at our gathering
held June 14-15 at the Center for Educational Design
in Washington, D.C.
“We must all pass through a gate of transformation
to move from age-ing to sage-ing,” writes Rabbi Zalman
Schacter-Shalomi, founder of the Spiritual Eldering
Institute. “This enables us to use our life experience
to enrich our elder years, face mortality, repair relationships, develop a regenerative spirit and transmit wisdom
to future generations. This process not only seeds the
future but crowns an elder’s life with worth and nobility.”
Sister Linda shared the essence of the sage-ing journey
with Cluster members, who quickly realized how “in sync”
this program’s content is to all of our lives, as well as to the
Holy Cross community. Each of the “elders” present was
affirmed in her role as a leader and “a learner—still with
potential—and whose life continues to have within it
promise for, and connection to the future.” We also hosted
a testimonial dinner for those in our past who may have
hurt us; this event was a healing means of welcoming them
thankfully back into our lives. Our elder journey helped us
to use wisdom from the past so that it could be transformed
as blessings for the present and a legacy for future generations.
The very enriching day ended with a series of blessings,
one of which summarizes the aim of sage-ing: “May the
blessing of creativity be with us, seeing our potential to
be spiritually radiant, physically vital and
socially responsible elders and to lead
others in this process.”
This meeting marked the 13th year of
faithfully gathering for two weekends each
year for input, community, prayer and fun.
At the business meeting on Sunday, the
group took a “gallery walk” of the events,
presenters, themes and focus for each
meeting over the years. We reflectively
experienced the sacredness of each gathering and felt gratitude for the awareness of
how these experiences have helped us on
our spiritual journey. We decided that we
place a great value on this time together
and that we will continue to have the
Cluster meeting one weekend a year.
Anyone in the community is most
welcome to join the group.
❦
Members of the Eastern Cluster display the “gallery” of events, presenters and themes
of their past meetings at their June 14-15 gathering in Washington, D.C.
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
Branches: Holy Cross Around the World
10
Parish bids farewell to Holy Cross sisters
Adapted from The Catholic Witness, June 27, 2003 with permission
L
ancaster, Pennsylvania—
The pastor and people
of St. Anthony’s Parish,
Lancaster, Pennsylvania, bade a prayerful farewell to the Sisters of the Holy
Cross on Pentecost Sunday, June 8.
The sisters had faithfully served the
parish since 1873, marking 130 years
of service as grade school teachers and
religious educators, and in a variety
of other ministries. Several generations
of those who had been taught by the
sisters, or who had been inspired,
encouraged or touched by them in
some fashion, packed the church
for the 11:30 a.m. Mass.
In the homily, Redemptorist
Father Patrick McGarrity drew parallels A parishioner at St. Anthony of Padua Church, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, expresses his
sentiments to Sister John Anthony (Linton) during a farewell Mass for her and the other
between the empowering nature of the
members of the Sisters of the Holy Cross.
Holy Spirit on Pentecost and the divine
beauty of the Holy Cross sisters, who
The parish has been a rich source of vocations for
radiated God’s empowering spirit and love to all they
the Sisters of the Holy Cross, sending a total of 67 women
served at the parish and in the Lancaster area.
to the community.
After Mass, the parishioners expressed their heartfelt
Twenty two Holy Cross sisters attended the Mass
sentiments directly to the sisters at a reception. Sisters
and reception. Several traveled from Saint Mary’s to show
Miriam (Eckenrode), John Anthony (Linton) and
their support.
Rosalma (Fulmer) ran a gauntlet of farewell hugs and
Father McGarrity urged the parishioners to follow
kisses. At one point, Sister John Anthony unsuccessfully
the example and the traditions of the sisters, who are also
attempted to overcome her tears with smiles.
known for the spiritual, intellectual and emotional guidance they provided their students. He said the departure
of the sisters is a time to thank God and express joy for
the connections made. He also acknowledged the pain.
Father also took time out of the homily to thank the
entire Holy Cross community for its service to the parish,
the diocese of Harrisburg, and the Lancaster community.
“This,” he said, “is a moment of thanks to you and to
your order, which allowed you to come here, your order
which stationed you here, your superiors who entrusted
the care of our children to you. So it’s a moment of great
praise and of great thanks that we want to extend to you.”
In an interview at the reception, Father McGarrity
~ Father Patrick McGarrity
recalled that the sisters’ willingness to put other people first,
and that their devotion to carrying out God’s work encouraged and supported him in his own priestly vocation. ❦
“This is a moment of thanks
to you and to your order, which
allowed you to come here, your
order which stationed you here,
your superiors who entrusted
the care of our children to you.”
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
Branches: Holy Cross Around the World
11
Blue-ribbon effort for California sisters
F
or many years the sisters at Saint Catherine
by the Sea have placed winning entries at the
Ventura County (California) Fair. This year’s
exhibition held July 30-August 10 was no exception.
Sister Ignatius (Schumacher) has entered her special jams
for so long that she is known as the “Jam Sister” and is warmly
welcomed by fair workers.
In addition to Sister Ignatius, the following sisters
exhibited their talents: Sisters Mary Agnes Mullen, counted
cross-stitch items; Lorna Mary Swisher, knitted baby booties;
Leo Joseph (Koester), crocheted afghan; Vibiana (Weber),
crocheted baby afghan; and Beatrice Marie (Schutz), clothespin crucifix, angels, party favors and other craft items. Cindy
Bryson, the housekeeper, exhibited a kitchen towel item.
All entries achieved notice; there were many first-place
and second-place awards, and even one nomination for “Best
of Show” for Sister Mary Agnes’ cross-stitch pillow.
August 5 was Senior Day at the Fair, allowing the sisters
to attend free of charge. There also was no fee for the shuttle
bus, which departed from the high school and transported the
sisters directly to the fairgrounds, making it convenient for
them to go and enjoy the great displays. ❦
ABOVE LEFT: Delighted with their achievement, Sisters Leo Joseph (Koester) (left) and Lorna Mary Swisher show their prize-winning afghan
and baby booties. ABOVE RIGHT: (L to r:) Sisters Beatrice Marie (Schutz), Vibiana (Weber), Ignatius (Schumacher) and Mary Agnes Mullen
proudly display their entries and ribbons.
ister Agnes Anne (Roberts) was honored for her 50 years of service
to the American Dietetic Association at the 2003 Indiana Dietetic
Association spring meeting held April 8-9 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Recognizing her as a leader and mentor, the association noted her many accomplishments, which have promoted an awareness of dietetics and its importance
in both a clinical setting and the community.
Sister Agnes Anne assisted with the design and layout of four dietary
departments. Most recently she has been involved with the new Saint Mary’s
College Noble Dining Hall and Dietary Department, which opened in June,
and is now working with the YWCA to design their new dietary facility. ❦
S
(from Hoosier Dietitian, a newsletter of the Indiana Dietetic Association, Issue III, 2003)
Sister Agnes Anne (Roberts)
Nota Bene continued on page 12
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
Leaves: Sisters in Ministry
12
(continued from page 11)
I
ndiana Campus Compact, a consortium of 31 colleges and
universities promoting community service and service learning,
selected Sister Linda Kors for a Community Service Director
Travel Scholarship. The award allowed Sister Linda to attend the first National Community Service and Service Learning Director Conference in
Chicago this past June. Sister Linda currently serves as director of the Spes
Unica Resource and Volunteer (SURV) Center at Saint Mary’s College. ❦
Sister Linda Kors
Sister Kevin honored by cancer center
T
Sister Kevin (Jones)
PHOTO AT RIGHT: A volunteer assists
visitors to Kevin’s Korner, a new cancer
patient library named for Sister Kevin
(Jones) at Saint John’s Cancer Center
in Anderson, Indiana.
o help individuals meet the challenges of cancer, Saint John’s
Cancer Center in Anderson, Indiana, has created a patient library
called “Kevin’s Korner.” The library is named in honor of Sister
Kevin (Jones), who worked with Saint John’s Cancer Center from 1995 until
her retirement in 2001. Kevin’s Korner contains a collection of printed, taped
and online resources providing access to understandable, current and accurate
cancer-related information for all ages.
Having access to
information is a vital
part of the decisionmaking process in
health and well-being.
The resources found in
Kevin’s Korner will
provide an opportunity
for patients and their
caregivers to learn more
about cancer diagnoses,
treatments, community
resources and clinical
trials, as well as many
other topics patients
face when dealing with
cancer. ❦
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
New Leaves: Formation
13
Embarking on a holy adventure
by Lilia Martínez
n Tuesday, July 15, Sister Joan Mader and
activity: Maryanne, Father John Franck, the parochial
I left La Providencia, the candidate house in
vicar of Saint Agnes, and María Alcayaga, a member of the
Guadalupe, Mexico. Earlier, we had a quick
parish, were dedicated to the delicious enchiladas and rice;
breakfast with Sister Patricia Anne Clossey and my family
Joan and Brenda cooked the Mexican beans; Mary Louise
before hitting the road to the airport. We had no problems
and Maryanne worked on the special broccoli salad; and
whatsoever, and the flight arrived even earlier than schedPatrice picked up the heavenly ice cream cake. Some of us
uled at Los Angeles International Airport. After meeting
rehearsed a little in the chapel, including our special guests,
a very generous immigration agent and obtaining a threeMary Louise and Patrice, Coordinators for Area III and
year permit, we encountered Sisters Brenda Cousins
Area I respectively. Sister Veronice (Fisher) also joined
and Mary Louise Full with great happiness.
us as we were getting ready for the service.
Brenda drove us all to Saint Agnes’
The reception ceremony began at
Convent where Sisters Maryanne
6 p.m. with all of us singing “Un Día
O’Neill and Sarah Marie Schmitt
a la Vez” (One Day at a Time).
were waiting to welcome us.
Brenda welcomed everyone
We gathered around the
and Mary Louise began the
table, where lunch had been
ceremony by asking me
prepared, and shared some
what I was asking from
funny stories. Sarah gave
the Congregation and
me a tour of the convent,
what I was seeking. I
which I got to know from
declared that I wanted
the basement up to the
to be admitted into the
third floor. Brenda then
novitiate and explained
showed us to our rooms,
the reason. After the
very pleasant ones, by the
Celebration of the Word,
way. We dedicated the
I shared with the sisters
afternoon to relaxation,
what the readings meant to
enjoying the company and
me. Roberta read the first
unpacking. Sister Roberta Bennett
reading from the book of Esther;
came home earlier than usual so I got
Sarah guided us through Psalm 139;
to meet her before dinner. We all had dinner
and Maryanne shared, in Spanish, the
together and again had a nice conversation.
Gospel according to Luke. Joan, Mary,
We started the reception day with a Mass
Gloria and Veronice presented the intercesABOVE:
at Saint Agnes Church. The day was full of
sions. Patrice gave me the Constitutions
Sister Lilia Martínez
activity for everybody. A little before lunch,
and Statutes, as well as the Directions and
signs the novitiate register
Sisters Mary E. Sullivan, Gloria Valdovinos
Decisions of the 22nd General Chapter.
on July 16 at Saint Agnes’
Convent
Chapel
in
and Patrice (McGee) arrived and added more
And then, for the first time, I officially signed
Los Angeles, California.
energy to the house. Everyone had her own
my religious name to the register that goes
O
continued on page 14
“I could see all these women enjoying being together, sharing with one
another the community of love that Father Moreau had in mind.”
~ Lilia Martínez
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
New Leaves: Formation
14
Embarking on a holy adventure, continued from page 13
Sisters Joan Mader (left), candidate director for Mexico, and Brenda Cousins (right),
novice director for North America, welcome Sister Lilia Martínez to the novitiate.
to general archives. After witnessing my
signature, all the sisters raised their hands
and gave me a very energizing blessing for
the novitiate. Maryanne then began singing
“Salve Regina” and everybody joined her in
a wonderful choir. Peace was offered to one
another with warm hugs, sincere friendship
and heartfelt words.
We could not wait to celebrate with
the delicious banquet that was prepared with
much effort and love by the community. At
one particular moment during supper, I was
sitting at the end of the table taking a deep
breath after all the emotion of the day. I could
see all these women enjoying being together,
sharing with one another the community of
love that Father Moreau had in mind. It is
difficult for me to express the kind of happiness that I experienced that special day. I truly
felt the tremendous support that all the sisters
have expressed in prayer for us all since the
very beginning of this holy adventure. ❦
n July 14, family members and friends of Lilia
Esther Martínez Herrera
gathered at La Providencia (Candidate House) in Guadalupe, Mexico,
for a Sending Ceremony to bless
her new next step in formation.
The following day, Lili and Sister
Joan Mader flew to Los Angeles
where Lili was received as a novice
on July 16. In a simple ceremony
at Saint Agnes’ Convent, she
received the Constitutions of the
Sisters of the Holy Cross and the
name: Sister Lilia Martínez. As
Lili begins this new phase of
formation, we accompany her
with our prayers and best wishes.
❦
O
Lili’s family helps her cut the cake in celebration of the Sending Ceremony on July 14.
(L to r:) Brother Sergio, Dad, Mom, Lili and sisters Gabriela and Teresa
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
New Leaves: Formation
15
“Come and See” hospitality
by Margaret Mary Lavonis, CSC
Father Jim Bracke, CSC, with “Come and See” presenters and participants at Saint Mary’s. Sisters Pamela Welch (at left, first row), Margie
Lavonis (row 2, fourth from left) and Arlene (Kniola) (row 2, second from right) were just a few of the CSC sisters who enriched the “Come and
See” Week for the young women.
T
“I believe this week definitely
accomplished its goal
that I was able to discern.”
“It is now the end of the week
and I must say that this has been
a pretty interesting week.”
“The ‘H’ in your name
does not stand for ‘holy’;
it stands for ‘hospitality.’”
“You have been so kind
and so generous to us.
I can’t thank you enough.”
Life Signs
hese are only some of the
sentiments expressed by the
eight women who came to
our “Come and See” Week held July 14-22
at Mary’s Solitude. Present were women
from Florida, Arizona, California, Texas
and Indiana, representing various ages,
races and cultures—all with the common
goal to learn more about religious life in
Holy Cross. And all but one had some
connection with a member of the
Congregation.
Several sisters helped with the week:
Sister Olivia Marie (Hutcheson) presented
“The Call to Holiness”; Sister Sharlet Ann
Wagner spoke on “The Call to Ministry”;
and Sister Madeline Therese (Wilhoit)
talked about “The Call to Community.”
continued on page 16
■
September/October 2003
New Leaves: Formation
16
“Come and See” hospitality, continued from page 15
Stephanie Grasso, a Saint Mary’s student, enjoys a picnic during “Come and See”
Week, held July 14-22 at Mary’s Solitude.
And let us not forget the beautiful nametags
created by Sister Josepha (Cullen).
Service was also part of the program.
The women visited and interviewed sisters and
helped the activity director with the annual luau;
they decorated O’Grady and served the food.
In addition, the young women had
time to reflect and pray. Each day began
with morning prayer and ended with prayer
after each evening session. There also was
reflection time after each presentation,
followed by faith sharing.
The formal part of the week concluded
with a day at the lake thanks to Sister
Margaret André (Waechter), who shared
the unit she had reserved with the group.
Unfortunately some were not able to stay
for Jubilee. Those who did were touched
deeply by the beautiful liturgy and the
witness of so many years of faithfulness.
Sisters Pam and Margie thank all who
prayed for and supported this event, especially
those at Saint Mary’s. Promoting vocations
is the business of the entire Congregation,
and we appreciate all those who take that
call seriously so we can continue the work
of Holy Cross. ❦
Sister Joan Carusillo gave “The Call to the Vowed Life,” and Sister
Margaret Mary Lavonis gave a discernment talk about “Bringing God
into Our Decisions.” Candidate Verónica A. Fajardo led an exercise on
the Congregation’s core values and told her discernment vocation story
and how she learned about Holy Cross. Sister Arlene (Kniola) gave
an introduction to convent pastoral care
and shared her vocation story. Sisters
Margaret Mary and Pamela Welch, newly
appointed to the vocation team, facilitated
and journeyed with the women throughout
the week.
In addition to contributions of
content, sisters were involved in other
ways—from cookies and treats provided
by Sisters Helen Anthony (Kieszkowski)
and Maura (Brannick) to a party in Saint
Joseph Hospitality House hosted by Sisters
Madeline Therese and Barbara Jeanne
(Fehr). The young women also had supper
one evening at Shellbark Convent and spent
an evening sharing with the Leadership
Team. Sister Eymardine (Lengerich)
led a tour through the Church of Loretto.
They were held spellbound as she explained Sisters Joan Carusillo (center) and Margie Lavonis (right) enjoy a moment of conversation
the murals, origin of the little chapel, etc.
with “Come and See” participant Lita Norzea.
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
New Leaves: Formation
17
New beginnings for Verónica
erónica A. Fajardo celebrated
her Welcome Ceremony at Saint
Agnes’ Convent in Los Angeles,
California, on August 15. Sister M. Patrice
(McGee), Area I Coordinator, along with the
sisters from the local community at Saint Agnes,
joined her. The evening began with a prayer
serviced planned by Verónica and followed with
a lovely dinner and many gifts and cards from
members of the community. During the prayer,
Sister Patrice welcomed the candidate by giving
her the Directory of Prayer, the Chaplet of the
Seven Dolors, and the Direction and Decisions
of the Twenty-second General Chapter of the
Sisters of the Holy Cross. Sister Maryanne
O’Neill presented her with a cross symbolizing
her commitment to growth in Holy Cross.
V
Verónica also had the opportunity to say good-bye to her parish
community through a Thanksgiving Mass that was celebrated on August 2
at Assumption Parish in East Los Angeles. Many of her friends and other
ministers from the parish participated in this celebration.
Verónica’s family celebrated the candidate’s entrance with a picnic
held in the garden at Saint Agnes’ Convent on August 10. The picnic
gave the family an opportunity to meet the sisters and rejoice in Verónica’s
new beginnings. ❦
AT RIGHT: Candidate Verónica A. Fajardo receives
the Chaplet of Seven Dolors from Sister M. Patrice
(McGee), Area I Coordinator, during the welcome
ceremony at Saint Agnes’ Convent on August 15.
Sister Elizabeth Tusiime’s cousin ordained
Thousands of people from Fort Portal, Uganda,
and surrounding areas converged on the fields
of St. Mary’s Minor Seminary adjacent to the
Virika Cathedral for the Episcopal Ordination
on June 15 of Bishop Robert Muhiirwa, cousin
of Sister Elizabeth Tusiime.
Bishop Robert spent seven years in the
United States studying at the University of
Notre Dame and Duquesne University. He
also served as an associate pastor at the St. Jude
churches both in Fort Wayne and South Bend,
Indiana, for several years.
(Sister Beth, previously engaged in nursing
ministries at the Holy Cross Family Centre, is
currently studying for an advanced degree in
nursing at Makerere University in Kampala.) ❦
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
Reflections
18
Picture, poem and song; personal sharings from theological reflections
by Philomena Quiah, CSC
G
ABOVE: Sharing their learnings are one of two theological reflection groups
formed at Holy Cross Convent in Dhaka. (Kneeling, l to r:) Sisters Shiuli
Gomes and Philomena Quiah; (standing, l to r:) Sisters Rani Catherine Gomes,
Maloti Maria Palma, Monju Corraya, Anita Gomes, Kolpona Costa, Mala
Kubi, Tuli Drong and Sheema Purification
BELOW: (L to r:) Sisters Anita Gomes, Sheema Purification, Tuli Drong,
Maloti Maria Palma and Mala Kubi decorate and prepare for the sharing
session of their group’s theological reflection.
Life Signs
■
reetings from Holy Cross in
Bangladesh! It is with great joy
that we share our time of celebration
on completion of our theological reflections
last spring.
Here, at Holy Cross Convent in Dhaka,
we formed two theological reflection groups.
The members of the second group were: Sisters
Anita Gomes, Bashona Rebeiro, Kolpona
Costa, Mala Kubi, Maloti Maria Palma, Maria
Lotica Palma, Monju Corraya, Philomena
Quiah, Rani Catherine Gomes, Rita Godhino,
Sheema Purification, Shiuli Gomes and Tuli
Drong. This group met more than 20 times,
from February 2001 through March 2003, to
discuss the four sets of theological materials.
Our final group sharing and celebration
was held on June 13. The day was one of celebration for it marked the faithful completion of the
exercise. Unfortunately, Sisters Bashona, Rita
and Maria Lotica were unable to attend.
The whole environment was very joyful;
the place was beautifully decorated and enchanting with the sound of laughter and delight. All
who were present enjoyed a special dinner, and
Sister Rani prepared a nice prayer. The sharing
of materials followed at 7:30 p.m.
The sharing session was very creative.
Each sister shared her thoughts and the implementation of the learnings in her daily life. Some
drew a picture; some read a poem; and some sang
songs. Everyone felt the group sharing was very
meaningful. The sisters said they learned many
things and that they will continue studying
these materials again and again. The sisters
also expressed their gratitude to those who
prepared all the reflection materials.
At the session’s end, the invited members
of the house came and joined the celebration.
Together we sang kirtan (group singing
accompanied by dancing in a ring) and
enjoyed refreshments of ice cream and
potato chips. Our celebration ended amidst
much joy and happiness. ❦
September/October 2003
Advancing the Mission
Fund-raising activities
report: Where do the
funds come from?
19
Total Income
by Jeanette Fettig, CSC
T
he Development
Office’s recent issue
of Tribute includes a report on
how fund-raising activities
progressed during the 2002-03
fiscal year. Here, we’d like to
provide you with more information about how that money
was solicited and to what effect.
Sources of Income by Appeal (exluding bequests, grants and patrimony)
As we reported, total
income was up nearly 33
percent over the previous fiscal
year, mainly attributable to
bequests from both lay donors
and Holy Cross sisters. Our
major appeals are shown in
the chart below covering the
past three years. It tracks the
progress from the boom year
of 2000-01, the contraction
of 2001-02, and success during
the last year. While, as with
the rest of the economy, we
probably will not reach the loft
bubble of the first year soon,
there are definite signs of
recovery. As always we thank
you for your support, without
which we would be unable to
raise even a penny. ❦
Life Signs
■
September/October 2003
Voices
20
Adventures in Electronic Voting
Comments heard from Area VIII:
From Area III:
“Such lovely clear directions. Thank you. Now we have been trying to
get the Web site all yesterday afternoon and evening, again this a.m. at
5, again now after Church and there is no line. We are not sure when
the ‘open sesame’ time will be but we keep trying. God bless.”
—Sister Margaret Ann Shield
“I’m lucky enough to live with Sister Maureen
Grady. The day we were leaving on vacation,
Maureen walked me through the process of getting
to the list of nominees. After I checked off the
names of those I wished to nominate, I walked
Sister Yvonne through the process. It was very
simple. We appreciate the chance not to waste a
lot of paper and to get it done in so short a time.
It also saves stamps and I’m sure that it also saves
time, and from what I’ve heard you are getting a
better percentage of responses from the sisters than
you usually get from paper voting. Thanks and
keep up the good work.”—Sister Barbara Gress
“Just thought you would like to know that our operation was successful. Three of us voted in exactly one hour and 24 minutes! We finally
got ‘online’ and ‘did the needful’! What a bill we will have! It was
after 8 a.m. this morning before we could get connected! Love and
prayer,”—Sister Margaret Ann Shield
“Thank you so much. We are all here and so excited to see ‘how
it works.’ Your instructions were just perfect! Thank you again.
With love,”—Sisters Bernadette Shilpi Rebeiro, Kolpona Costa,
Maloti Maria Palma and Margaret Ann Shield
Area V sisters prepare their
votes to be case online.
Counterclockwise: Sister
Aloysia (Lundergan) of Saint
Mary’s Convent peruses a
binder containing nominees’
responses to Reflection
Questions copied for sisters
with special needs; Sister Julien
(Wilke) enjoys a little assistance
from Election Committee
member and Area V liaison
Sister Theresa Diane Streif;
Sisters Patricia Cullen and
Daniel (Frailey) review their
floor’s binder of Reflection
Question responses.
Life Signs
■
“I want to congratulate the Election Committee
for launching us into electronic voting! You have
made the transition easy for us. The instructions
were clear and the process simple. Thank you
for all your work on this project.”—Sister Joan
Carusillo
From Area V:
“I appreciate being able to participate in the
election process without having access to the
Web site. Here at Saint Mary’s, those of us
without Web access are able to make our choices
from the same lists that everyone else sees, and
Sister Theresa Streif and her army of helpers will
sit with us one by one and translate our choices
into the computer. Nobody who’s able to vote
is left out.”—Sister Georgia (Costin) ❦
September/October 2003