September 2013 Mission Groups to Discuss Vocations and Keys to
Transcription
September 2013 Mission Groups to Discuss Vocations and Keys to
page 1 IHM Newsletter - September 2013 September 2013 Mission Groups to Discuss Vocations and Keys to the Future The Vocations Team and the New Life Committee submitted the following issue and concern for discussion by mission groups and to be addressed at the November 15 Mission Board meeting. Statement of Issue or Concern: That Mission Groups, local communities, conversation circles, and other IHM groups 1) engage in deeper and continuing conversation through the Keys to the Future process, which may be found on the Sisters’ webpage: http://www.sistersofihm.org/sisters-login-page/vocations/ 2) develop a “Culture of Vocations” by planning and conducting and/or participating and collaborating in vocation events in geographic areas where IHM sisters live and serve. Rationale: We understand that the choices we make today about vocation promotion as a whole congregation will impact our IHM future in a very significant way. Create a culture of vocations. Many of the congregations that have attracted new members are characterized by a “culture of vocations” within the congregation. In these congregations everyone - not just the vocation director - has a sense of responsibility for vocation promotion and is involved in and supportive of vocation efforts. This includes leadership and membership, mission groups, local communities, and conversation circles. Source: NRVC-CARA study of new members. See nrvc.net/best_practices to read the full report. Specific Action Requested: Mission Groups, local communities, conversation circles, and other IHM groups are invited to plan and conduct and/or participate in vocation events at least once but preferably two or more times a year which bring IHM sisters and women together for prayer, conversation, fun, or service so that the women get to know the IHMs and our community spirit and mission. Anticipated Outcome: 1) A fresh understanding of our own corporate identity, a revitalization of our passion for our mission and a re-energizing of our living out of our vocation to IHM. 2) More vocations events (e.g., service days, retreat days, discernment days, get to know the sisters opportunities). 3) More IHM sisters committed to vocations promotion. 4) New members. Submitted by: Sisters Jean Louise Bachetti, Dolores M. Banick, Fran Fasolka, Linda Anne Greenberg, Maria Rose Kelly, Christine Koellhoffer, Kathryn Kurdziel, Elizabeth McEneaney, Rita Ann Naughton, Lisa Perkowski, John Michele Southwick, Redempta Sweeney, Rachel Marie Terry, and IHM Associate, Alejandra Marroquin Mission Groups to Raise Names for Leadership The Election Committee has prepared a congregational process for raising names for leadership in preparation for Chapter of Elections. Set in the context of prayer, the process includes reflections and readings related to leadership and the qualities leaders possess. The process has been given to mission group representatives who will lead this process at their fall mission group meetings. Governance Committee to Develop Recommendations Members of the IHM Governance Committee have been meeting in sub-groups to prepare recommendations that address the length of term of office and other issues raised by mission groups related to governance. The committee will present recommendations at the November 15 Mission Board meeting and at the November Chapter meeting. In preparation for conversation, the recommendations will be sent out to the congregation membership prior to the meetings. IHM Newsletter - September 2013 page 2 Rally for immigration reform in Scranton held on march anniversary Scranton Times-Tribune by Katie Sullivan, August 29, 2013 On the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech and march for civil rights on Washington, D.C., a small group of demonstrators took to the sidewalks in Scranton to call for immigration law reform. About 20 people, many of them Immaculate Heart of Mary nuns, stood at Spruce Street and Adams Avenue on Wednesday night with signs and Latin music rumbling out of a speaker, in hopes of showing legislators that now is the time to pass comprehensive immigration reform. Sister Janet Jeffers of Catholic Social Services said her organization sponsors immigrants from Bhutan who come to this country looking for opportunity, work and education. “They’re working very hard. They’ve come into our country not for a handout but to earn their way,” she said. The people in her program come through the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops and U.S. Immigration, but she said people who don’t have that opportunity need to be given a chance. For Michelle Nash of Taylor, the historic anniversary was a good time to celebrate how far America has come in terms of equal rights, but she also noted that much more work needs to be done. She said the pathway to citizenship for people needs to be opened with legislative reform and action in Congress. “They really should have a chance to become citizens and live here legally,” she said. Contact and Treasurer Information Needed from Local Communities The Communications and Business Offices need information from each local community: Names of Contact Person and Treasurer, names of sisters in residence who are from other religious congregations, number of bedrooms available in local community for other sisters seeking housing. Each local community must submit this information online at: http://www.sistersofihm.org/sisters-loginpage/forms/local-community-info-form.html This information may also be called in to the Communications Office at: 570-346-5404 by September 27. The IHM Congregation prepared an Employee Appreciation Picnic at the Theresa Maxis Conference Center on August 29. Pictured L-R: Dee Costello, Barb Burda, Bernie Ketten, Sister Mary Ellen Coyne, Joanne Caines, Assunta Piccolino, and Patsy Gallo. IHM Newsletter - September 2013 page 3 Sister Cor Immaculatum Describes Inspired Sculptures The moment when humanity touches the Divine… On display at the IHM Center are two sculptures (maquettes) by Sister Cor Immaculatum Heffernan: Mary, Spouse of the Holy Spirit and Joseph, Husband of Mary. A year ago, I was asked to create bronze sculptures of Mary, the Spouse of the Holy Spirit and Joseph, Husband of Mary. I have always been inspired by the human spirit—by persons living, suffering and rejoicing in the “embrace of life.” Moments of interaction when “humanity touches the Divine” become recurring themes in my creative work. This is true of these two sculptures. Luke 1:26-38 reveals the angel Gabriel’s greeting to Mary, his declaration of the Holy Spirit’s role in the conception of the child, Mary’s “how can this be?” And then, “I am the handmaid of the Lord… may it be done to me according to your word.” Matthew 1:18-24 recounts the story of Jesus’ conception, of Joseph’s fear, of the angel’s message: “do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home, for it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her… She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus because he will save the people from their sins.” The Mary that I have sculpted looks to her God, believes, and receives. And Joseph, young and in love with Mary, opens his arms in welcome, promising his faithful care of her and the child. - Sister Cor Immaculatum, IHM IHM Leads Summer Service Project Sister Sandra Grieco, IHM, organized the summer service of the students from St. Mark’s High School in Wilmington, DE. She worked alongside the students and was assisted by several faculty members. Twentytwo students spent July 16-18 in service to the residents of Marydale Retirement Village in Newark, Delaware. Marydale provides rental housing for seniors in need and persons with disabilities. The students washed windows, scoured ovens, cleaned kitchens and bathrooms, weeded, pruned, and mulched at the retirement village. Sister Mary Rita Smith, IHM, the pastoral and community services director at Marydale was thrilled with the work of the students. All of the students commented on how appreciative the residents were. In reflections students also made the following comments: “I want to go out and do more service.” “Others are in need of help, and we are called to help them.” “Volunteering can be fun if my friends are doing it with me.” “I will encourage others to volunteer more.” “When you do service for others, it humbles you and blesses you, and makes you thankful for what you have.” IHM Newsletter - September 2013 Prayer and Fasting for Immigration Reform from Sister Donna Korba, IHM, Director of Justice and Peace Dear Sisters, Associates, and Friends, We are invited to forty days of prayer, fasting, and advocacy, September 9 to October 18. As Congress returns to session on September 9, the push for Comprehensive Immigration Reform becomes ever more crucial if it is to pass into law. LCWR encourages individuals, congregations, and groups of all kinds to unite in prayer, fasting and advocacy between September 9 and October 18. Here are some suggestions about how you can join us in prayer, fasting, and advocacy for compassionate and humane immigration reform. We invite you to make a commitment here to 40 days of Fast Action for Immigration Reform. • Join us in daily common prayer for immigrants’ rights and a compassionate immigration reform. • Pray with the interfaith community as we move through six weeks of prayer and fasting for compassionate, comprehensive immigration reform. • Share prayers and reflections about fasting and action for justice from your own faith tradition. • Join us in a spiritual fast that enables us to take on some of the suffering of our broken immigration system and focuses us more clearly on prayer and action for change. • Share your commitment with your communities, your family, religious community, and your work colleagues, and consider inviting them to pray and reflect on this critical social issue. Set a weekly or daily time to commit to public prayer and/or fasting with your community. • Invite religious leaders, local politicians, teachers, and community leaders to participate in prayer, fasting, and advocacy and to consider being public about their commitment to just immigration reform. Ask them to share with their communities and the media their conviction about the need for immigration reform and the power of prayer and fasting to transform us all. Visit: http://fastaction.us/pray/prayers/ Daily Prayer Immigration Reform from the Heart of God Heart of God, full of mercy, watch over our sister and brother immigrants. Protect them from harm even as they suffer mistreatment and humiliations on their way. Touch with your goodness the hearts of us who see them pass by. Break open our hearts to embrace them and the gift that they are to our communities. Heart of God, full of compassion, give our brothers and sisters in Congress the gift of compassion. Open their eyes to the pain and longing of those affected by their decisions. Give them wisdom as they struggle to repair our unjust immigration system. Break open their hearts to embrace the dreams of our immigrant parents, siblings, and friends. Heart of God, full of love, we give you glory for all the blessings you have given us. Help us to share those blessings with others that we may all know that you are a God of mercy, a God of compassion, a God of love. Break open our hearts that we might embrace the challenge to build a land, a nation, a community where all are welcome. page 4 Celebration of Religious to be Held on September 15 Over the decades, many dedicated men and women religious and their associates have contributed so much to the life and spirituality of the Diocese of Scranton. They have served as teachers, nurses, administrators, counselors, spiritual guides and leaders, social workers, retreat directors, parish staff members and friends. In this Year of Faith, His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph C. Bambera, D.D., J.C.L., Bishop of Scranton, and the people of the diocese wish to recognize these contributions with a special liturgy and reception, Sunday, September 15, 2013, at Marywood University. Please come and let us thank you in person! The Mass will be celebrated in the Sette LaVerghetta Performing Arts Center beginning at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow in the Latour Room of Nazareth Hall. Members of religious communities who are currently ministering in the diocese, along with those who are no longer serving but have done so in the past, are invited. RSVP to the Office for Parish Life, 570-207-2213 or [email protected] IHM Congregation Vitae (as of September 9, 2013) Final Profession - 399 Temporary Profession - 4 page 5 IHM Newsletter - September 2013 Requests Needed to Air Women & Spirit Documentary on NBC Stations LCWR is requesting help in its effort to have the LCWR documentary, Women & Spirit: Catholic Sisters in America, air on NBC stations across the country. The film will be available to all NBC affiliates for broadcast at their discretion from September 15, 2013, to March 15, 2014, as an episode of NBC’s “Horizons of the Spirit” series, presented in partnership with the Interfaith Broadcasting Commission. It is not a “must carry” program, so each station decides when or if it airs the film. Because this is such an important and rare opportunity to tell the story of women religious, LCWR has engaged a station relations/broadcast promotion specialist, Dan Pitre, a longtime Catholic communicator, to encourage 235 stations across the country to schedule the program and also to encourage the grassroots to call their local stations to request broadcast of this film. Dan will disseminate news of any scheduled broadcasts in each locale throughout the nation. Dan may be contacted at [email protected] or [email protected] or 909-215-5656. Help is needed in spreading this news and the importance of local viewers calling their local NBC station, and then spreading the word of scheduled broadcast times and dates. Please do the following: 1. Find your local NBC station, using the online NBC Directory at www.nbc.com/local-stations or your own local phone directory. 2. Email or phone the station with a message such as: I am a local resident and viewer, and I’ve learned that a new documentary,Women & Spirit: Catholic Sisters in America, will be available for broadcast to your NBC station, starting September 15. I understand it’s part of the NBC “Horizons of the Spirit” series and that information about the program is on the NBC Universal APT system. Are you aware of it and do you have any plans to broadcast it? This is the virtually untold story of the nearly 300-year history of Catholic sisters in the U.S. and how they have helped shape our nation’s social, cultural and spiritual landscapes. Many people in your viewing area are becoming interested in this program, and I will help spread the word about any broadcasts. So can we count on your station to air this program? 3. Direct your sisters, associates, ministry partners, and others to the section of the documentary website and ask them to make contact with NBC as well: http://www.womenandspirit. org/media-bulletins.html Available on the site is a short item that could be used in parish bulletins, Catholic newsletters, or websites. There is also a trailer and other information about the film at www.womenandspirit.org The more contacts made to a station, the better the chances that the film will be aired. 4. Consider encouraging local businesses to offer to advertise during the program if it is aired locally. This, too, will increase the likelihood of a local NBC station airing the program. 5. If you or any of your sisters or colleagues learn of a broadcast, please notify us via e-mail: womenandspiritfilm@ verizon.net and please spread the word and consider organizing a group viewing session. Building on the success of the Women & Spirit traveling exhibit, the documentary’s availability to NBC is a great opportunity to use mass media for millions to see this incredible, 300-year-old story that includes our history and our present day ministries. Thank you for helping us maximize this opportunity. - Sister Annmarie Sanders, IHM Sisters Helen Ann Charlebois and Beth Pearson visited the Women & Spirit exhibit at Ellis Island in 2010. IHM Newsletter - September 2013 page 6 From the IHM Business Office Vehicles Insurance cards for all congregation owned vehicles have been mailed. The cards are effective 9/1/13 to 9/1/14. The mailing also included Auto Record forms which should be completed on a quarterly basis and returned to the Business Office and a Vehicle Maintenance Purchase Order to be used when having service/repairs done to your vehicle. If you have not received an insurance card, please contact Jeanne Hill at 570-346-5419 or [email protected]. Congregational vehicles involved in an accident or incurring any damage must be reported to the Business Office immediately. The new contact person is Jeanne Hill at 570-346-5419 or [email protected]. Mandatory Health Insurance Notices Important information regarding the IHM Congregation’s sponsored health insurance benefits for the plan year 2013-2014 is available on the congregation’s website at www.sistersofihm.org. Please select Sisters Login and then Business Matters/Health and Medical/Mandatory Notices. The following information is being provided as required by law. Please note that no action is required by you at this time. • Health Insurance Exchange Notice- Note: The Congregation of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary has provided a health plan at no cost to its members. This coverage exceeds the minimum coverage thresholds as outlined by the Affordable Care Act, and therefore there is no benefit to be gained by shopping plans offered in the Marketplace. • Summary of Benefit Coverage-Aetna Managed Choice Plan • Summary of Benefit Coverage-Aetna Traditional Choice Plan • Certificate of Creditable Coverage for Medicare D Purposes-This information does not apply to and may be disregarded by Aetna plan members that are currently not eligible for Medicare. • HIPAA. Notice of Privacy Practices. • Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act-This notice outlines provisions for breast cancer treatment and reconstructive surgery in connection with a mastectomy. • The Newborns’ and Mothers’ Health Protection Act • Premium Assistance and CHIP Notice Insurance Address Change Guidelines If a Sister has recently moved and she is unsure about what insurance addresses she needs to update, she can refer to the Address Change Guidelines which can be found on the congregation’s website at www.sistersofihm.org. Please select Sisters Login and then Business Matters/Health and Medical/Address Changes. New Staff Member The Business Office welcomes to its staff Kayla Guilford, Accountant. Kayla is responsible for Central Accounting processing and Ministry/Employment Agreements. She can be reached at 570-346-5413 or [email protected]. Central Accounting August 31, 2013 marks the end of another fiscal year for the congregation. We ask that all Central Accounting paperwork through August 31, 2013, be sent to the Business Office no later than September 16, 2013. Local Community Fidelity Checking Accounts Summer is a time for many changes within local communities. Please remember to complete a new signature card if there is a change in a local community treasurer. Please contact Kayla Guilford at 570346-5413 or [email protected] if you need a signature card. Direct Deposit Direct Deposit is a safe and timely method for your stipend/wages to be sent to the congregation. The funds are electronically transmitted into the congregation’s account on your regular pay date. A pay advice is then given to the sister advising her of the payment into the account. Please inquire at your place of ministry/employment for the availability of this feature. Sisters who are currently enrolled in direct deposit are reminded to send in their deposit advices upon receipt to the Business Office. page 7 From the IHM Business Office IHM Newsletter - September 2013 Little Sisters of Ste. Therese Elect New Leaders Business Office Contact List Main Number 570-346-5406 Fax Number 570-346-5412 Debbie Worlinsky, Business Manager 570-346-5435 [email protected] Jackie Roche, Office Manager 570-963-2476 [email protected] Sister Judith Ann Ziegler, Receptionist 570-346-5406 [email protected] Laura Bondy, Senior Accountant 570-963-2492 [email protected] Jeanne Hill, Accountant 570-346-5419 [email protected] Kayla Guilford, Accountant 570-346-5413 [email protected] Mary Lou Vandorick, Accounting Asst 570-963-2494 [email protected] Paula Thompson, Accounting Asst 570-963-2488 [email protected] Sister Geraldine Dranginis, Accounting Asst 570-330-8652 [email protected] Members of the Little Sisters of Ste. Therese were elected to leadership during their ninth General Chapter August 6-17, at their motherhouse in Riviere Froide, Carrefour, Haiti. They are: Sister Desilia Sanon, Gen- eral Assistant; Sister Marie Jeanne Martha Pantal, Counselor; Sister Jeanne Dorsainvil, General Secretary, Counselor; Sister Delivrine Lops, General Treasurer; Sister Lunie Emose Alouissaint, Counselor; Sister Chantal Pierre, General Superior. Final Reminder for Annals 2012 - 2013 As always, we are asked to write annals for the residential and/or ministerial environments in which we serve. The stories of our lives are sacred and require that they be recorded and preserved in the congregation archives. Please forward the annals to the congregation archivist, Sister Anitra Nemotko, either by regular mail or e-mail at [email protected]. Thank you to the sisters who have already submitted annals, and thank you in advance to those who will do so in the future. Annals are an effort to preserve our remarkable IHM history. Reminder to Mission Groups A reminder to the mission groups who have not sent a copy of Spring 2013 mission group meeting minutes electronically or by regular email to both your councilor and the congregation archivist. As always, thank you to everyone as we continue to stand together in our mission and ministry as IHMs. Sister Rosemary Goulet: [email protected] Sister Chris Koellhoffer: [email protected] Sister Ellen Maroney: [email protected] Sister Anitra Nemotko: [email protected] - Sister Anitra Nemotko IHM Newsletter - September 2013 OSP Leadership Team Installed page 8 IHM Events Mission Board Meeting November 15, 2013 Chapter Meeting November 16-17, 2013 Discernment Day February 1, 2014 Chapter of Affairs March 6-9, 2014 Chapter of Elections April 3-6, 2014 The Oblate Sister of Providence Leadership Team was installed at a Eucharistic Liturgy at the Our Lady of Mount Providence Convent Chapel in Baltimore on June 24. Pictured L-R: Sister Brenda Cherry, OSP Fourth Councillor; Sister Dora Fernandez, OSP Second Councillor; Bishop Denis Madden, Auxiliary Bishop of Baltimore; Sister Mary Alexis Fisher, OSP Superior General; Sister Mary Lorraine George, OSP Assistant Superior General and First Councillor; Sister Rita Michelle Proctor, OSP Third Councillor. Maxis, Lange, and Seton Pilgrimage, October 12 A pilgrimage to the graves of Mother Theresa Maxis, Mother Mary Lange, and Mother Elizabeth Seton, will be held Saturday, October 12. The following is the travel plan for the day: • 8:30 a.m. - Depart from St. Mary’s Seminary & University Parking Lot, 5400 Roland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210 • Baltimore, MD - Mother Mary Lange motherhouse of the Oblate Sisters of Providence • Lunch on the bus (bring bag lunch) • West Chester, PA - Mother Theresa Maxis - prayer at gravesite • Emmitsburg, MD - Mother Elizabeth Seton - celebrate Mass • Dinner at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine (included in price of pilgrimage) • 7:45 p.m. - Estimated time of arrival at St. Mary’s Seminary & University Parking Lot Total cost of the Pilgrimage is $60.00 per person. A $20.00 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve a seat on the bus with balance due by early September. Call or e-mail to reserve a seat: 410-728-6464 or smscbalto@ verizon.net Mail $20.00 deposit with name and address to: St. Mary’s Spiritual Center & Historic Site, 600 N. Paca Street Baltimore, MD 21201. 570-595-7548 [email protected] Welcome to the IHM Spiritual Renewal Center September 20 - 22 Women of Hope Mission Group September 27 - 29 Joanne Weiss Group The Blessing Way THIS RETREAT IS FILLED September 15-20 Arrive: Sunday, 6:30 p.m. Depart: Friday, 1:00 p.m. Presenter: Reverend Terrence Moran, C.Ss.R. IHM Newsletter - September 2013 page 9 Spirituality Center Opens in Former IHM Convent St. Peter of Alcantara in Port Washington, NY, announced the opening of The Immaculate Heart of Mary Spirituality Center in the former IHM convent. The parish patron saint, Saint Peter of Alcantara, was a spiritual guide to St. Teresa of Avila, who is a patron of the IHM Congegation. The staff at the new center seek to continue a long and rich Catholic tradition for spiritual growth among the guests at the center. For more than 75 years, the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary ministered at St. Peter’s parish, teaching the school children and passing along the Catholic faith to many generations. The center has been named in honor of these generous and holy sisters. The planning committee for the new center has refreshed the convent with paint and window shades in the living room, dining room and kitchen. The second floor is ready for programs to begin in the fall. An open house is planned for September. Spirituality programs will be offered by the Inisfada Ministry Team, a group of trained spiritual directors who formerly ministered at St. Ignatius Retreat House until it closed in June. The team brings years of experience in offering days of prayer, spiritual enrichment, and spiritual direction. An upcoming parish retreat is planned for October. Other planned programs include, Meeting Christ in Prayer, on Wednesdays from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Spiritual Book Club, a weekly sharing for eight weeks on Immortal Diamond: The Search For Our True Self by Richard Rohr; Gift of Years, a monthly book discussion gathering that includes lunch. The book for the fall is It’s Just as You Are: Opening Your Life to the Infinite Love of God by Paul Continho, S.J., beginning on Thursday, October 3 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; and Prayer Shawl Ministry, knitting or crocheting in a group setting and giving away what is made to those in need, meeting once a month beginning Monday, October 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. For more information on The Immaculate Heart of Mary Spirituality Center, contact Sister Peggy Tully, OP, at 516-883-2782 or e-mail [email protected] Reunion planned for St. Matthew’s School in Wilmington, DE My name is Larry Bianchino and I am a 1975 graduate of St. Matthew’s School in Wilmington, DE. My classmates and I are planning a class reunion, and we are trying to track down some of our former IHM sisters to invite them. The reunion will be Saturday, October 12 at 6:00 p.m, in Newark, DE, at McGlynn’s Pub on the corner of Polly Drummond Road & New Linden Hill Road. Sisters who taught at St. Matthew’s between 1967 and 1975 and wish to attend the reunion are asked to contact Larry at [email protected] A 40th year class reunion is being planned for 2015. Dedication in Memory of Sister Greta Collins A plaque in loving memory of Sister Greta Collins was dedicated at Archbishop Neale School in LaPlata, MD, by the class of 2013. Classmembers commented that Sister Greta was a treasure. A teacher noted that when Sister Greta walked down the hall, “the students saw her from their classroom seats and would get so excited, saying, ‘It’s Sister Greta!’ Sister would stop and they would hug her and love her. She has been missed since the day she returned to Pennsylvania.” The idea for the plaque was conceived by and would not have been possible without the hard work of the eighth grade class mother, Regina Estevez. Regina has two children who graduated from Archbishop Neale School: Maria in 2010 and Louie in 2013. This news item was sent for the IHM Newsletter by Karen M. Grooms, ANS Class of 1978, and mother of graduates Justin in 2010 and Brenna in 2013. IHM Newsletter - September 2013 IHM Associates Commissioned page 10 IHM Directory Update www.sistersofihm.org Susan Armbruster 908 John’s Drive Moosic, PA 18507 cell: 252-670-7906 Helene Cooke St. Hugh of Cluny Convent 3533 Mascher Street Philadelphia, PA 19140 cell: 609-828-1564 On August 15 Lynn Kuchinski, Joanne Musa, and Marguerite Morrow chose to commit to IHM Associate Relationship on a feast day of Mary. Following Mass at their parish church of St. Bernadette in Canadensis, PA, in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, the three associates committed to the Charism of the IHM Sisters and their Core Values. For over a year this Circle of Grace, along with Sister Gloria Frank, shared their personal call to holiness and studied the history and mission of the congregation. Many of the parishioners were present for the special event. Pictured L-R front Sister Gloria Frank, Lynn Kuchinski, Joanne Musa, Marguerite Morrow, Sister Jean Louise Bachetti. L-R back: Associates Helen Findlay, Daniela Rivera, Arlene Callemo, Patricia Baker. IHMs Segway Through Nation’s Capitol Ann Barbara DeSiano Our Lady of Grace Convent 29 Shelter Rock Road Manhasset, NY 11030-3020 516-627-7672 Grace Madeline Dusch 1304 Overdale Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15120 412-651-6171 Jane Ellis Cathedral Convent 333 Wyoming Avenue Scranton, PA 18503 570-344-9725 570-347-1909 Helene Hicks [email protected] Eleace King 705 Nandy Drive, Apt. #4 Kingston, PA 18704 570-283-1046 cell: 570-239-9266 Francis Rose Lapatino Our Lady of Grace Convent 29 Shelter Rock Road Manhasset, NY 11030-3020 516-627-7672 IHM sisters, Kathleen Clancy, Susan Brown, and Kathleen Lunsmann pose on their Segways at the National Mall during a sightseeing tour this summer of Washington, D.C. This being her first Segway experience, Sister Kathleen Clancy commented that she was happy she didn’t become a Nun “Under” the Bus. Maria Regina Loures St. Ann Convent 319 East 109th Street New York, NY 10029 212-534-8321 [email protected] IHM Newsletter - September 2013 page 11 Eleanor Marie Malanaphy St. Peter Convent 16 Father Cody Plaza Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 845-454-2160 Jamesella Mawhinney Our Lady of Peace Residence 570-330-8578 Rosela McFadden Our Lady of Peace Residence 570-330-8517 Raymond Mary McIntyre Cathedral Convent 333 Wyoming Avenue Scranton, PA 18503 570-344-9725 570-347-1909 Karen Marie O’Neill Cathedral Convent 333 Wyoming Avenue Scranton, PA 18503 570-344-9725 570-347-1909 Agnes Panik [email protected] Theresa Petz St. Peter Convent 16 Father Cody Plaza Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 845-471-6600 Dora Vizcarra Hijas de la Caridad de San Vincente de Paul Ave. Perez Aranibar 2402 Lima 17 Peru 011-511-264-0018 Cecilian White Our Lady of Peace Residence Kieran Williams Sisters of IHM 1748 Capouse Avenue Scranton, PA 18509 570-963-7738 Notes of Gratitude Many heartfelt thanks to all of you who were so caring during my recent hospitalization and rehab. I am so appreciative of all the cards, gifts, calls, visits and most especially prayers that were offered for me. The research shows that those who receive such signs of love while recuperating will be touched by healing much faster than by those who don’t! Danke schoen for helping me to heal. -Sister Linda Anne Greenberg Dear Sisters, My sister Rita’s family and I wish to express our deepest gratitude for the many expressions of sympathy, Mass offerings, and prayers offered for Rita. We ask God’s many blessings on all of you. Gratefully, Sister Eileen Miller I am very grateful to all who helped me throught my recent hospitalization and recovery, by your presence, prayers, cards, visits, and phone calls. It is such a wonderful blessing to be a member of this IHM family. Many thanks. -Sister Jean Conaty Sister Cecilian White and the family of deceased William E. “Bill” White are very grateful for the many prayers, Masses, words of sympathy and support in the loss of our beloved husband, father, “favorite” uncle, brother and friend. Thank you and God bless you. Sisters Franceline and Romaine express their love and gratitude to all you beautiful and generous people. A triduum of Masses has been offered for you and your intentions. God bless you. Sister M. Rosella Salvato wishes to express her deepest gratitude to the wonderful administration and the nursing staff at Our Lady of Peace Residence. Also to all who graciously offered concern, prayers, and sent cards during her recent knee replacement surgery. Dear Sisters, Your prayers at the time of my fall in July, your cards and concern expressed by so many were truly overwhelming. Now as I write, almost 6 weeks since the accident, I can assure you that your prayers were most effective. Thank God and all of you my arm is doing really well. God bless you all. -Sister Alphonsa Concilio From the Councilor of Temporal Resources Many thanks to all of you who helped beautify the graves of our sisters at St. Catherine’s Cemetery. Your efforts are greatly appreciated. If any of you would like to be buried in the same grave with a sister relative, please put your request in writing and send to the Councilor for Temporal Resources. She will notify the cemetery and keep your letter in your personal file. Since there are different types of graves, the cemetery needs to know this well beforehand. From the IHM Development Office Silver Circle News A tremendous “Thank You” is extended to all sellers and supporters of the 2013-14 Silver Circle program. Subscriptions are coming in at a steady pace, and we encourage you to send in your returns as soon as possible, to give us ample time to enter all data before the first drawing on October 16. IHM Newsletter - September 2013 Need Help Planning Vocation Events? At a joint meeting of the New Life Committee and the Vocation Team, it was suggested that the contact information of members of the New Life Committee be published in order to serve as a resource for sisters and associates who are looking to do something for vocations. We’re grateful for the initiatives taken by a number of individuals and groups in making IHM more widely known and experienced through a variety of service experiences, prayer and reflection days, and other opportunities for sharing our mission and spirit. We hope to see even more of these efforts throughout the congregation. Aware that each of us is called to nurture new life in our congregation, we’re also aware that sometimes getting started can be a challenge, so let us know how we can help. Please contact any of these members of the New Life Committee for conversation, ideas, and assistance, or for sharing your own ideas and insights: Sister Jean Louise Bachetti [email protected] Sister Dolores M. Banick [email protected] Sister Linda Anne Greenberg [email protected] Sister Chris Koellhoffer [email protected] Sister Kathy Kurdziel [email protected] Sister Beth McEneaney [email protected] Sister Rita Ann Naughton [email protected] Sister Lisa Perkowski [email protected] Sister John Michele Southwick [email protected] Sister Rachel Marie Terry [email protected] page 12 Professional Photographer, November 16-17 A professional photographer will be at the IHM Center on Saturday, November 16, to take portrait photos of all IHM sisters. Sisters are asked to come to the terrace floor near the elevator where the photographer will be set up between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Many sisters will already be present for the Chapter meeting that day and are reminded to dress professionally for the photo. The same professional photographer will also be available to take portrait photos of the sisters at Our Lady of Peace Residence on Sunday, November 17, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The photographer will be located in the OLP dining room. The OLP administrators and staff will coordinate photo time slots for the sisters. Purchase graphics for publications, program covers, bulletin boards, frameable art at the IHM Heartworks online store. Visit http://store.ihmheartworks.org Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure: Scranton, Saturday, September 21 For more than twenty years the Komen NEPA Race for the Cure has been the city’s largest 5K event where friends and families join together in the fight against breast cancer. Join the IHM sisters for the Race for the Cure. Team members will meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Federal Building in downtown Scranton. Please wear your IHM Race for the Cure T-shirt (any year’s shirt will do). Please register as an individual at the link below. Team members will be responsible for picking up their own Race for the Cure T-shirts that are given with a registration fee of $30. Several IHM Race for the Cure T-shirts are available for new team members. Please contact Maria Celmer at 570-346-5404 or [email protected] to obtain a T-shirt. Register online for the race at: https://secure.info-komen.org/site/TRR/RacefortheCure/SCR_Northeastern PennsylvaniaAffiliate/558692332?pg=ptype&fr_id=2305 IHM Newsletter - September 2013 page 13 Gifted Hands by Ben Carson, M.D. with Cecil Murphey Reviewed by Sister Mary Jo Kelleher Published initially in 1990 and re-released in 2011 as the twentieth anniversary edition, Gifted Hands is not only an inspiring autobiography but also a blueprint for personal success and fulfillment. Ben Carson rose above the limitations imposed by poverty, a single parent home, and a failed educational system in inner-city Detroit to become one of the nation’s most respected neurosurgeons. Many are familiar with Dr. Carson’s life and work not only from his very popular book but from the film adaptation of the same name. Released in 2007 and starring Cuba Gooding Jr., the movie, like the book, was critically acclaimed. In Gifted Hands Dr. Carson credits three influences in his life for bringing him success not only as a brilliant physician but as a decent human being as well. First, it is his third-grade-educated mother whose faith in him and at times tough love convinced Ben that he could achieve any goal he set for himself. Second, his faith and trust in God’s role in his life significantly shaped his character. Lastly, Ben’s belief in himself and his abilities gave him the determination to achieve. This led to a scholarship to Yale University, followed by a medical degree from the University of Michigan and ultimately to his appointment as chief pediatric neurosurgeon at Johns Hopkins University Medical Center in Baltimore. Since the publication of the second edition of Gifted Hands, Dr. Carson has retired from medicine. He and his wife devote much of their time to the Carson Scholars Organization which he founded in 1994. The organization’s objectives are to motivate children and young people to excel academically and to make meaningful commitments to their communities to impact them in a positive way. Ben Carson has been the recipient of numerous awards and distinctions, including the Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor, bestowed upon him in 2008 by President Bush. Currently Dr. Carson is in demand as a speaker, writes a weekly column for The Washington Times, and is an occasional guest analyst on the Fox News Network. Whatever the venue, Ben Carson’s message is the same: the importance of educational excellence, religious and family values and personal determination and commitment. New on the IHM Leadership Team This is a listing of events and meetings attended by one or more members of the leadership team during the month of August: Sisters of St. Casimir Jubilee Celebration Annual Assembly of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious, Orlando Central Assembly Meetings IHM Corporation Meetings Insurance Meeting IHM Congregation Trust Meeting Employee Picnic Cleaning of IHM Cemetery, Elmhurst Election Committee Meeting Governance Committee Meeting IHM OSP 2015 Planning SubCommittee Meeting IHM Friends: Carbondale Planning Meeting Join the IHM Sisters for Prayer Wednesday September 11 6:30 p.m. IHM Center Chapel IHM Web Issues and Concerns for November MB Meeting: http://www.sistersofihm.org/sisters-login-page/mission-board.html Graphics and Art for Publications: http://store.ihmheartworks.org/ Remembering an IHM Sister: http://www.sistersofihm.org/who-we-are/ihm-member-profiles/remembering-an-ihm-sister.html Vocation Stories: http://www.sistersofihm.org/what-you-can-do/become-a-sister/vocation-stories/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sistersofihm