Franciscan Spirit - Saying "Yes!" to God's Call, Vol. 4.1

Franciscan

A PublicAtion of the SiSterS of St. frAnciS of the neumAnn communitieS

Volume 4.1 WINTeR 2015

Franciscan

Saying Yes! to Gods Call

edIToRSCheryl Aughton

Sister Lorraine Wesolowski

eXeCuTIVe edIToRRochelle Cassella

CoNTRIbuToRSCheryl Aughton Rochelle Cassella Gregory Griffin Hilary Johanson

Cynthia MunschauerSister Lorraine Wesolowski

GRaphIC deSIGNDeborah Allen

phoToGRaphYDeborah Allen Cheryl Aughton Rochelle Cassella

Gerianne DobmeierRoxanne Sopchak

CIRCulaTIoNJodie Antoniadis

Sister Rose Marie Colasurdo Sister Alicia Damien Lau

Sister Donna Zwigart

CoNGReGaTIoNal offICe of mISSIoN adVaNCemeNT

Gregory Griffin315.634.7085, [email protected]

VoCaTIoN offICeSister Caryn Crook

[email protected], 315.751.6819

edIToRIal offICeSisters of St. Francis

of the Neumann Communities 2500 Grant Blvd., Suite 3

Syracuse, NY 13208

[email protected]

www.sosf.org

If there is a change that needs to be made, we want to do so. Please return your correct

address to us, or contact Jodi Hagan by email at [email protected] or phone 315.634.7015.

In addition, let us know if we have misspelled your name, sent you more than

one news magazine or if you want your name removed from our mailing list.

Peace and all good!

Its traditional that we start the new year with resolutions for improving our lives exercising more, eating less, making more time for family and friends. In his letter establishing 2015 as the Year of

Consecrated Life, Pope Francis has made some wonderful suggestions for resolutions, not just for those women and men who have said yes to Gods call to religious life, but for all of us as Christians look at the past with gratitude, live the present with passion and embrace the future with hope.

As I look to our past, I am grateful for the role models of St. Francis, St. Clare, St. John Neumann and our own Mother Marianne Cope, who showed us that saying yes to Gods call can mean so much to so many in education, health care and dignity and reverence for those outside of societys mainstream. The stories in this Franciscan Spirit show me our sisters continuing to serve with the same passion as our founders, embracing as they did the Gospel as their guide to daily life. You also can see in these articles the hope that our sisters have the future of religious life. Because while we may not know what the future brings for us or for the world, we are certain that God will be with us and that we will again say yes to the call.

I encourage all of you to take up these resolutions as well. Thank those who have shown you the way to live life; pray the Gospel to find the passion in lifes every day activities; and know that no matter what the future brings, we walk it with Gods love.

Pope Francis has made this year about vowed religious, but we know that we could not accomplish what we do without the support of volunteers and associates, donors and friends. We thank you for all that you do and remember you and your families in our daily prayers.

May God continue to bless you,

Sincerely,

Sister Roberta Smith, OSFGeneral Minister

and the Leadership Team

DeAr frienDS,

FranciscanVolume 4.1 WINTeR 2015

2 Saying Yes What is Consecrated life?

4 Sisters Say Yes to Gods Call Consecrated life through the Years

10 Will They Say Yes?

11 Why They Said Yes!

13 Not Consecrated, but Committed: When associates and Volunteers Say Yes

18 debunking the myths about Religious life

20 mission advancement

25 In prayerful memory To read the full text celebrating the life and legacy of a particular sister, please visit www.sosf.org. If you do not have Internet access, send your request with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the editorial office.

29 upcoming Retreats and events

Directional StatementRooted in the Gospel and energized by the Spirit of St. Francis and St. Clare, we seek to be women of vision living in right relationship with God, one another and with all creation.

Mission StatementRooted in the Gospel we are sisters to all, serving with reverence, justice and compassion.

The goal of Franciscan Spirit is to reflect what it means to live the Gospel as Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities in our everyday lives. The spirit of Franciscan life is best described as: a joyful attitude, simplicity of heart, giving praise and thanks and greeting all with peace. Our hope is that concepts like these will come alive in the people you meet in this publication we call Franciscan Spirit, and that you will be inspired to partner with us in our mission.

Award Winning Franciscan Spirit2014 National Catholic Press Award: first place, general excellence, religious order magazines from the Catholic Press Association of the U.S. and Canada

2012 best in show, and best publication with a gift envelope awards from the National Catholic Development Conference

On the CoverSister Maria Laura Fernandez answered with a resounding yes when God called her to religious life with the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities. A first-year novice, Sister Maria lives at the Third Order Regular Franciscan Common Novitiate in St. Louis, Missouri where she spends her days studying, serving others, and living in community with five women from five different religious communities.

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Franciscan Spirit is published three times a year. Printed on recycled paper using soy-based inks.

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Saying YesWhat is ConseCrated Life?

As defined by the Catholic Church, consecrated life is a way of living by men and women who feel called to follow Jesus Christ in a manner that is recognized by the church. It includes the public profession of the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. There have been women religious since the start of the church; St. Paul praised widows and virgins who devoted their lives to the Lord. In the third century, when monks joined together in monasteries, there are records of communities of women religious living together as well.

Women religious are classified as either nuns or sisters. Nuns live the contemplative life in monasteries, either cloistered or semi-cloistered. Even though these women bear the title Sister when you call them by name, they are nuns. Away from the outside world, they minister through prayer.

Other women religious live a life of contemplation in the world, serving the church through their ministries. These consecrated women are called sisters. They live in convents and blend prayer with works of mercy. In the centuries leading to the Second Vatican Council (known as Vatican II), little about the daily lives of women religious changed. They followed the dictates of their congregations rule and constitutions as well as the directions of those in leadership positions in the congregation. Through their initiatives, leadership and even heroism, sisters founded impressive networks of schools, hospitals, and social services. They were pioneers in healthcare. They staffed hospitals, nursing homes and orphanages. They were women of extraordinary compassion, spirited vision and faith

religious leaders and innovators who frequently introduced new services and technologies.

In the 1950s and early 1960s, vocations flourished and large groups of young women flocked to convents, many directly from high school.

Post Vatican II consecrated life looks much different. Most communities have forgone habits for modern dress; not all sisters live in large convents and sisters ministries run the gamut from parish administrator to immigration attorney and veterinary technician, just to name a few. While the flood of vocations to religious life has slowed to a trickle and religious communities are considerably smaller than they were a generation ago, men and women still seek out a life devoted to God. What has not changed about consecrated life is the opportunity it gives a sister to witness by her life, ministry and prayer, the joy expressed in the letter Pope Francis wrote announcing the Year of Consecrated Life: Wherever consecrated people are, there is always joy.

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he country was still suffering from the Great Depression in 1939 when Sister Therese Vaulet entered the Sisters of St. Francis in Millvale, Pennsylvania. Vocations were abundant

and some large congregations were talking about dividing themselves into smaller, more manageable groups called provinces. Sisters were easily identifiable by the habits they wore, though they were seldom seen outside of the parish school where they taught.

Enter the 1960s and the Second Vatican Council, commonly referred to as Vatican II. The Councils goal, according to Pope Saint John XXIII who convened the council, was to align the church with the

modern world. I want to throw open the windows of the church so that we can see out and the people can see in, he said.

Vatican II led to historic change in Roman Catholicism. Sister Therese recalls that there was more of an ecumenical movement in the church. The altar now faced the people. The assembly actively participated in the liturgy. With a background in music education, Sister Therese was particularly struck by the changes in music sentimental hymns, she explains, gave way to new hymns based on scripture and liturgical seasons. Keyboards and guitars joined the traditional organ to enhance the liturgy.

Vatican II also brought about drastic changes in the way women religious lived. People from various religious denominations began

Sisters Therese and alice

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p Sister Therese Vaulet p Sister Alice Gilabert

The 2015 Year of Consecrated Life takes place in the context of the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council. The changes resulting from the council were a breath of the Spirit for the church and for those in consecrated life. Many of our sisters lived through these changes. Others entered the congregation after the implementations of the council began. In the following two pages, we invite you to share in the conversations between several sisters to discover how the lives of women religious have changed during these 50 years.

As the Spirit continues to work in our lives, so the future of consecrated life is continually revealed.

Sisters Say Yes to Gods CallConseCrated Life through the Years

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working together, and Sister Therese became part of an ecumenical group of church representatives called the Millvale Ministerium. I witnessed a lot of changes, she says.

Sister Alice Gilabert was baptized into a very different church in 1973. She was 16 years old, the daughter of a Catholic father and a Lutheran mother, who had been given the choice of which faith to practice. As a young child, when she attended Mass with her Catholic grandmother, she says she didnt understand anything that was going on. The example of the faith of her grandmother as well as the changes happening in the church led Sister Alice and her sister to knock on the rectory door of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Haskell, New Jersey and tell the pastor they wanted to become Catholic. They were instructed in the faith, baptized, received their first holy communion and were confirmed. Three years later she told her pastor, I want to be a nun. In exploring various congregations she was welcomed to visit the Franciscan sisters in Williamsville, New York., The rest is history, she says.

Sister Alice, who serves as western New York regional Franciscan associate director, also serves in the congregations communications office and at St. Aloysius Parish in Springville, New York. She says that she knew little about Vatican II until she entered the convent. Its fascinating, she says. Regarding the current state of religious life she says, Its unfortunate that the church isnt having vocations as in the past. I love the life I live. She feels that todays youth are missing out on so much due to the many things which distract them from the sacramental life of the church. I hope something will draw them back to the faith. I pray I stay alive in my faith so people will know I love Christ, she says.

Both Sisters Alice and Therese are excited about the 2015 Year of Consecrated Life. I hope a lot of good comes from this year, says Sister Alice. Adding to this, Sister Therese says, There is so much from the past that affects the present.

We can learn from the past. Changes are taking place. Religious life will flourish again, but not as we know it today.

Sisters Kathy and Rose ann

ister Rose Ann Renna recalls that the significant changes in religious life in the post-Vatican II years created real trauma for

many sisters, yet it was a positive experience for her.

It was during this time that the community created houses of prayer, which resulted in a real bonding among the sisters. The houses of prayer were a freeing experience. It was a hopeful time. I felt I was embracing the future with hope. I had a love for the community I never experienced. It was a more mature love.

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p Sister Kathy Adamski p Sister Rose Ann Renna

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When she entered the Sisters of St. Francis in 1954 at age 17, she said her father was appropriately furious. Because I played the piano, he expected me to be a piano teacher. But instead, she grew up in community, she says. We had a pretty rigid community life. Some that left were ahead of our time. She notes that because of her lack of maturity at the time, and the rigid lifestyle, she wasnt greatly affected by Vatican II.

By the time she entered the community, Sister Kathy Adamski had held a job, attended business school, bought a brand new car and experienced the club scene. At the age of 23, she says I had all the material things, but they didnt make me happy. When she was invited to a religious retreat and saw how joy-filled the sisters were, she realized thats what Im searching for.

In the 1970s and 80s, the time of the Vietnam War and Woodstock, people were searching for meaning in their lives. It was during this time that Sister Kathy entered the community. Being a flower child, I would have had a problem with the rigidity (of the pre-Vatican II formation), she says. She credits her formation directress for making her a more mature adult. She would say, Try not to ask me for something I have to say no to, Sister Kathy says. A member of the community for 36 years Sister Kathy says the sisters made me the adult I came to be. I grew up with a lot of love. They taught me how to be a woman in the church and how to love the poor. I would never be where I am today if not for the community. Reflecting on the past, Sister Rose Ann said that, before I made first vows, the hardest thing was finding out that the sisters were not saints. I was so idealistic. Looking to the future, she predicts religious life will be unlike the present. I dont see our future as we live it now, she observes. I dont know what it will hold, but I know there is a future for people of passion. Im waiting to be surprised.

We learned what the life was about. Im still learning. SISTER VERONICA WOOD

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Religious life will be radically different, adds Sister Kathy. Im excited about the future. I am confident that the poor will always be with us and we can help them and they can radically change us. She adds, My desire is to do direct service with the poor. I think thats where we are closest to God.

Sisters Joan and Veronica

dont remember a lot about Vatican II, says Sister Veronica Wood of Peekskill, New York. As a second grader

I remember the change of the habit, because it was something I could see.

As things began to change, it seemed like sisters were becoming more human, approachable and friendly.

We felt a freedom, said Sister Joan Souza of Honolulu, Hawaii. Before Vatican II our lives revolved around the school where we taught and the convent. She says that changes brought about by the Second Vatican Council enabled sisters to go out to the people and to become more involved with them. Most people felt comfortable talking

with us. We were no longer set apart. Vatican II enabled us to be more independent in our way of living, yet we kept our Franciscan spirit.

When Sister Veronica entered the Sisters of St. Francis in 1980, 15 years after the end of Vatican II, life for women religious was still in flux. During the years when she was preparing for final vows, she says there werent large numbers of women entering the life; just one other person entered when she did. Formation groups in individual congregations were small and as a result, inter-community novitiate programs were established. During her formation years, Sister Veronica participated in renewal programs, learned about the communitys constitution and Franciscanism. We learned what the life was about. Im still learning, she says.

Pre-Vatican II formation programs were very different. Our novitiate was solid, says Sister Joan. We had a schedule to follow. We learned the Rule and learned how to keep silence. She notes this was quite difficult. You knew where you were going and doing. You didnt have to make decisions. Our novitiate was a time to find out who you are and what you wanted in life. We had no financial or family worries. We only had to know and love God and do what you could for him.

In contrast, Our years in formation were less defined, said Sister Veronica. Silence was not so much an issue. I entered the community with a college degree and taught during my postulant year. My salary was sent directly to the community which contributed financially to the completion of my masters degree. She explains that the community

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p Sister Joan Souza p Sister Veronica Wood

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couldnt undertake the risk of paying for someones education only to have them leave the congregation.

Your life was very different from mine, said Sister Joan. God gives us what we need at the time we need it. Its what you do now that counts. We need to move forward and keep our Franciscan charism alive today.

We need a spirit of risk, says Sister Veronica. We need to look at our founding members and all they embodied. They had a spirit and willingness to risk. She recalls the risk that Mother Marianne Cope took when she traveled from New York to Hawaii to care for those with Hansens disease. We get so use to our comfort and seem to balk at what we see as uncomfortable. We need to be available for the needs of today in the example of our founding sisters. Am I willing to do what I am called to do? she asks.

Sisters marie bernadette and Suzanne

cant imagine what it was like before, said Sister Suzanne Dunn as she listened to Sister Marie Bernadette Wyman talk about the changes in the church and

religious life brought about by Vatican II. It opened up a whole new world. The church became more vibrant. It gave me great hope. It was an exciting time, Sister Marie Bernadette explained.

Among the many changes brought about by Vatican II was the call for men and women religious to adjust living arrangements and ministries so they would be more active in the modern world.

p Sister Marie Bernadette Wyman

p Sister Suzanne Dunn

As women religious, we should be on the cutting edge of issues. Whatever we can do to help others, we should do. SISTER MARIE BERNADETTE WYMAN

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Sister Marie Bernadette, who serves in prayer ministry in Mount Vernon, New York recalls an experience as a young novice before the council. She explains that it was her task to line the garbage pails with newspaper, which gave her the opportunity to read the headlines. We were teaching, but following a cloistered mode of living, which for many sisters included following a strict horarium (schedule).

For many who were tied into the strict observance of a horarium, it was threatening and difficult to have one that would work with our now more active ministries, said Sister Marie Bernadette. Today we have different schedules, added Sister Suzanne. It excites me to sit around the table and talk with one another to reach a mutual agreement. I value the time we have together. Its worth the conversation and compromise. Our decisions do not come from the top down.

A teacher at Christian Brothers Academy in Syracuse, New York, Sister Suzanne says Vatican II gave sisters the opportunity to be with the people for whom they were praying. Im grateful I can be in a ministry that Im passionate about. I am excited to go to the classroom every day and have an impact on the students.

I hope we can respond to the needs of the times, says Sister Marie Bernadette. As women religious, we should be on the cutting edge of issues. Whatever we can do to help others, we should do, she says.

Vatican II also opened the door for sisters to address social justice issues and to challenge systems. Issues like homelessness, immigration, poverty and abuse have been on our radar since I entered, says Sister Suzanne. Vatican II gave us the ability to do this in our small way. We can make a difference.

Not all the changes stemming from Vatican II were greeted with enthusiasm. Some caused considerable dissention within religious communities. The change of the habit was a big issue, says Sister Marie Bernadette. Many sisters resisted the change. Sister Suzanne notes that some sisters wanted to retain the habit. She also remembers sisters talking about wearing colors other than black and white, while Sister Marie Bernadette recalls that the length of the habit generated debate. We had to have a mutual toleration, she said. We could still love and care for one another despite what we were wearing, added Sister Suzanne.

As she looks toward the future, Sister Suzanne is hopeful. There is a need for our living to be more intense and honest. God is directing the future and I hope we will be open to what it will look like in its form and style of commitment.

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ill they say yes? This was the question that played out in the homes of viewers across the country

in Lifetimes newest reality television show, The Sisterhood: Becoming Nuns.

The six-part series which debuted last November followed five women as they spent six weeks visiting three communities of women religious. As they journeyed together, these twenty-somethings were discerning whether they were called to religious life.

According to a study by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA), the example of members and the characteristics of the institute have the most influence on the decision to enter a particular institute.

Bishop Michael Burbidge who chairs the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations identifies a personal encounter with women in consecrated life as essential to helping young women understand the vocation and its way of life.

Sister Caryn Crook, vocation director for the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities agrees. After all, it was a sisters personal invitation which planted the seed for her vocation to religious life. If it wasnt for this sister, I wouldnt have been able to experience the joy of religious life, she says.Creating a culture of vocations is one of Sister Caryns goals as she begins serving in her new ministry. This is the work of encouraging all young Catholics to remain open to the possibility that they are called. It is also the work of inviting and

WiLL theY saYYes?W

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encouraging those in whom sisters see a potential vocation to consider religious life. It is the role of each sister to reach out, invite and embrace women who are discerning Gods call in their lives, says Sister Caryn.

This is exactly what Sisters Ann Bremmer, Donna Stephenson, Suzanne Susany and Amy Williams, who reside at Dwelling House in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania are doing. Recently, they reached out to guide two women who are discerning. Sister Donna, formation director for the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities connected with Sarah, a former Change A Heart Franciscan Volunteer member who was seeking spiritual direction; while Sister Ann Bremmer, pastoral associate at Sts. John and Paul Parish in Sewickley, Pennsylvania invited Mary, a parishioner, to consider religious life.

Together, the sisters and lay women shared dinner and conversation. We all shared our vocation stories, ministry experiences and talked about being open to Gods call, says Sister Donna, who has been a Sister of St. Francis for 52 years.

Members of the group agree that the experience was life-giving. It was very energizing to share our own experiences and reflect upon how God has worked in our own lives, and then to hear the young women speak about God working in their lives and hear their yearnings to share what they have, says Sister Donna.

Today, the group meets regularly and continues to grow. So many women are discerning where God is calling them and theyre not sure, says Sister Caryn. To journey with them is a gift, and in this

SISTER DONNA STEPhENSON

Sister Donna Stephenson recalls the time of her final profession during Vatican II, when many women chose to leave the ranks, I felt strongly I was not leaving. I was not going

anywhere. This is where God called me. In fact, she felt so deeply committed that she requested and received special permission to profess her final vows six months early.

SISTER CARYN CROOk

Is religious life worth it? Yes, I wouldnt change it for the world. I have so much love in my life that I am overwhelmed at times. I am more compassionate, merciful,

forgiving and joyful because I receive compassion, mercy and forgiveness because I am anything but perfect. And this brings me such joy.

SISTER ChERYL WINT

In my heart, I knew this was the community for me. I felt I was home. There was no second guessing. (today) I feel very loved by my sisters, she says. They treat me as an equal.

SISTER MARIA LAuRA FERNANDEz

I like the spontaneity and naturalness of the sisters in their daily life and in their prayer, she says. I love Franciscan spirituality.

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WhY theY said Yes!

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journey not only am I changed, but I hope they are changed as we share our wisdom.

While working as a teacher at Francis College in Moravia, San Jos, Costa Rica, Sister Maria Laura Fernandez, 27, got to know the Conventual Franciscan Friars who served at the school. Thanks to them, I met the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities, says Sister Maria Laura, the congregations newest member.

During her candidacy, Sister Maria Laura lived in Syracuse, New York and in Pittsburgh where she spent meaningful times in community and ministry with the sisters. I liked the spontaneity and naturalness of the sisters in their daily life and in their prayer, she says. I love Franciscan spirituality.

Today, Sister Maria, a first-year novice, lives at the Third Order Regular Franciscan Common Novitiate in St. Louis, Missouri where she spends her days studying, serving others, and living in community with five women from five different religious communities. It has been a very profound growing experience, she says.

Also, new to the community is Sister Cheryl Wint, pastoral assistant at St. Augustine by the Sea in Honolulu, Hawaii. After attending a Come and See weekend for women considering religious life, Sister Cheryl remained connected to the congregation by meeting monthly with sisters for sharing and prayer.

As she approaches her final profession, Sister Cheryl says vowed religious life motivates her

to live joyfully and virtuously. That is why I can confidently say yes to religious life. I am energized and motivated to go wherever God is calling me to go.

In todays world, reaching discerning women through the use of new media has become a best practice for most vocations directors, including Sister Caryn. Using Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, and email, she regularly communicates with women online. Young adults today use many ways to search for the religious community that is the right match for them, she explains. It is important to get our message, ministry and mission to the public.

Sister Caryn also hosts Come and See and various service retreats for potential candidates to meet members of the congregation and to discern. Our sisters are doing amazing things in quiet ways, many people dont realize it, notes Sister Caryn.

Reflecting on the future of religious life, Sister Donna predicts congregations will be smaller, more local and less structured. She encourages new members to be prepared not for what is, but for what will be. Dream and listen to Gods call because they (new members) will be the ones creating the future. My advice for someone considering a religious vocation is to just look into it, says Sister Caryn. Take it one step at a time. When you look into it, youll see that religious life is a true gift and brings so much joy to so many people.

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not ConseCrated, But Committed: When Associates and Volunteers Say Yes franciscans in action help people in Need in Rural appalachia

wo Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities along with four volunteers traveled to David, Kentucky this past summer to provide home repairs for people in need

through the sisters Franciscans in Action (FIA) program.

Cheryl Wagner of Glenshaw, Pennsylvania said she had been looking for a meaningful way to serve others. She eventually learned about the program while reading her church bulletin. She said it was an opportunity to serve people as Jesus did, by feeding the hungry, clothing the naked and sheltering the homeless.

Together, the six women focused on building a home

for Sandy, a single woman whose house was in such bad repair that nothing could be salvaged. Sandy watched with excitement as the group laid floors, trimmed windows and doors, cut countertops, hung doors and painted. The best part of the week was knowing that we were making a difference for a woman in need and not just a woman, but a person, Sandy, said Sister Ann Bremmer, pastoral associate at Sts. John and Paul Parish in Sewickley, Pennsylvania.

In addition to working together, group members prepared meals for one another and prayed with and for each other. The Lord was present with us in every aspect of the time we spent there, said Cheryl. Whether it was in the prayers we shared each morning and evening, the work we did on the project, or the time we spent just getting to know one another.

For more than two decades, FIA has served the poor in Appalachia beginning in Manchester, Ohio and continuing today through the volunteer program of St. Vincents Mission in David which hosts groups of people from across the nation. For more information, please contact Sister Karen Krebs at 412.965.1247, [email protected], or visit www.sosf.org.

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p 2014 Franciscans in Action Participants Row one, from left: Sister Ann Bremmer,

Lena DeLucia, Betty Giegel, Meg Zahren Row two, from left: Sister Donna McGartland

and Cheryl Wagner


Committed to mission Work

Editors Note: Cindy Adamowsky has worked for the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities as the Director of Life Enrichment and Wellness for three years. Spending vacation time doing volunteer work is something she has long committed to because she feels it is important to give back. Along with her visit to the Timau Mission in Kenya, East Africa this past September, Cindy has spent time volunteering in New Delhi, India and several small villages in El Salvador. She is a member of St. Matthews Episcopal Church in Syracuse, New York This account of her trip to Timau is in her own words.

My friend Dorothy Pierce and I traveled to East Africa to volunteer at St. Elizabeth Primary School and

St. Clare Technical School for approximately 200 children sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis. These schools are located in the small town of Timau, Kenya, where the sisters have been ministering since 1971.

Most of these children, who are only able to attend school through funding provided by individual benefactors, are disadvantaged, homeless, migrants or orphaned. This is a result of the widespread AIDS epidemic that is prevalent across Africa. Many people from my church generously donated stuffed animals, suitcases and money to help us get extra supplies to the children. Our collection of furry friends was very well received by both the children and Sisters Joanne Gangloff and Bea Leising.

While in Timau, Dorothy and I had innumerable experiences that touched us so very deeply and

profoundly. I know we have been transformed in ways that we could not have ever imagined. It was truly an honor and a privilege for us to watch Sisters Joanne and Bea minister so tirelessly to the children, families and staff of St. Elizabeth and St. Clare schools. Their commitment and devotion to the people of Timau was remarkable! They both exemplify what it means to be the heart and hands of Christ in the world, as they reach out to those in need. The school children with whom we spent time were precious. Engaging with them and their teachers was such a joy to us, and the sound of their voices will forever remain in our hearts. The younger children loved to be near us and touch us and would fight with one another to be able to hold both Dorothys and my hands as we walked together. There were times when Dorothy and I would have multiple children hanging on our arms for dear life! While in the classroom, we would sit and observe the children from the back, while their teacher was giving a lesson. One by one, the children would turn in their seats and just stare at us. I guess you could say we were a bit of a distraction!

What became very obvious to Dorothy and I was that God was truly at the center of these childrens lives. The depth of their faith was expressed through prayers, songs of worship and praise and dancing. The children were taught to close their eyes while praying. It makes me smile when I bring images to mind of the younger children covering their eyes with their hands in an attempt to keep them closed! Dorothy and I attended Mass every morning with the older students and sisters. What was noticeably absent from the chapel pews were Bibles, prayer books and hymnals. The children didnt need them.

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They had within them all they needed to express their thanks and praise to our Lord. I dont think Dorothy and I will ever forget the sound of their beautiful singing which drifted out of the open windows as we made our way to the chapel each morning.

In the November issue of my churchs monthly newsletter, there was an article about the importance of song and that singing our faith, together with fellow Christians is such a joy and privilege. We are all aware that singing is a beautiful form of prayer and the author wrote, clearly, God is in song. Dorothy and I experienced Gods presence through the voices of those children. These were most assuredly, moments of grace.

The children also gathered to pray during morning assembly in the center courtyard and before their noonday meal, which consisted of a hearty soup of potatoes, cabbage, carrots and beans. On some days, this soup would be served over rice. Meat was added to the soup on Wednesdays. The children received a cup of nutritious four grain porridge in the morning and a piece of fruit later in the afternoon. For some, this would be their only food for the rest of the day.

The poverty we witnessed was profound. Most families live in tiny houses constructed of mud or

tin, with dirt floors. There is no indoor plumbing or electricity. Cooking is done over a charcoal fire. Many families attempt to get temporary or seasonal work as pickers at surrounding farms, or the women take in wash and perform other menial labor to earn what money they can to purchase food. I cannot even begin to count the number of times I silently thanked God for the bountiful blessings that we all experience in this country, especially for basic necessities such as clean running water, electricity and plentiful food. A few months ago, the bishop of the Central New York Episcopal Diocese wrote in a letter that Christ has no borders. His statement really resonated with me and I have reflected deeply about the meaning this holds for me.

God is at work in each of our lives every day. How we each choose to serve and honor him is different for all of us.

Many of us serve God in our homes, in our families, our neighborhoods, at church, in our own communities and outside of our communities. We minister to those we know and to those we may never have the opportunity to meet personally. We have graciously welcomed the stranger. Often times, we never know the true impact we have made in someones life. God is very grateful to us for

t Cindy Adamowsky reads a story to the preschool class.

Each day, the children start their school day with prayer.



however and wherever we choose to reach out and minister to his people in need. For some of us, it could be just beyond our front door, for others it could be at a little mission school in Kenya. Its all the same to God!.

Saying Yes Takes different forms

erianne Dobmeier never felt called to a religious vocation. In fact, the one night she spent in a convent during

middle school spooked me, she says.

Sisters were the people who disciplined me, she said, adding that in high school, she enjoyed her freedom, was adventurous and liked action. Little

did she know that later in her life she would feel thankful for the opportunity to be welcomed like family by sisters.

By contrast, Bob Dobmeier felt called to the priesthood and entered the seminary twice, the second time spending three years in preparation. Ultimately he decided that celibacy wasnt what I wanted.

What Bob and Gerianne Dobmeier share is a strong love of God and the need for God in their lives together. They both have said yes to serving God,

Gerianne as a Franciscan Associate of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities; Bob as an ordained deacon.

They both trace their faith journeys back to childhood. Gerianne said she felt grace-filled even as a young child. If I had a problem, my first thought was to pray to God. Then Id go to my parents, she recalls. Bob says he felt the first call to the priesthood as a young boy.

Their coming together was truly a match made in heaven. They met at a church where Bob served in ministry after deciding not to continue at the seminary. Gerianne was in a serious, long-term relationship. But she broke it off, because in being attracted to Bob, I realized that having someone strong in his faith was an important part of what I wanted in a relationship, she says.

They continued to feel Gods hands in their married life. Gerianne began teaching at a Catholic school in Buffalo, where she met the sister who would encourage her to join the sisters Franciscan Associate program. She went through the training and made the first of several three-year commitments.

As an associate, I can assist the sisters in a number of ways, helping them with anything they want me to do take photos at events, help them with computer technology. Bob and I have even done presentations for the associate program, she says. This is in addition to her other ministries singing in her church choir, serving as a lector and Eucharistic minister and baking for Bobs RCIA (rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) classes.

G

p Bob and Gerianne Dobmeier

BeCome a Franciscan Associate

are You spirituaLLY grounded in Your everYdaY Living?

A unique response may be the Franciscan Associate program. The program is an engaging way for women and men to pray, grow and serve with a religious community while maintaining their individual lifestyles.

WhAT ARE LAY ASSOCIATES

Celebrating the universal call to holiness of all baptized Christians, proclaimed by the Second Vatican Council and recognizing the gifts which the laity possess, the Sisters of St. Francis, like many other religious congregations, established an associate program. The sisters invite men and women to share in the mission of the Sisters of St. Francis and the Franciscan charism while continuing to focus on the path of their lives.

Learn more and apply at www.sosf.org/we-invite-you/ become-an-associate

WINTeR 2015 17

Bob worked as a counselor with a mental health agency and eventually earned his doctorate. The couple opened their home to friends and neighbors for a weekly prayer group and along with their three children, prayed the rosary. In 1999, Bob announced that he wanted to become a deacon a five year process and Gerianne agreed, without knowing that she and the wives of the other diaconate candidates would be required to attend classes each month as well. In the end, she was grateful for the opportunity to grow in our faith life together.

It challenged our relationship because it was one more drain on our time, Bob admits. But its deepened our ministry.

Neither Gerianne nor Bob can imagine a life without their commitments to God. As a married man with children and grandchildren who also is ordained, Bob wants to show people the everyday spirit of God. Gerianne sees her work as an associate and an employee of the sisters (communications and technology coordinator for the congregation) as ways to fulfill her spiritual and ministerial needs; she now feels a calling to share her reflections on the Christian message.

I want to help expand peoples spirituality, to let them know that God is real, that he is here, she says. The Lord works through both of our lives constantly.


deBunking the Myths About Religious Life

hough a great deal has changed in the lives of women religious since Vatican II, much of the general public clings to some

common misunderstandings about what the life of a woman religious is like. As one of Pope Francis goals for the Year of Consecrated Life is to educate people about religious life, we address some common questions and debunk some myths:

Q. Is there a difference between a sister and a nun?

A. While many people use the terms interchangeably, technically nuns are women who have professed the vows of poverty, celibacy and obedience and who live a

cloistered or enclosed life in a monastery. A sister also has professed the same vows, but she is engaged in active ministry within the world. Both sisters and nuns also are called women religious.

Q. Do sisters still live in convents?

A. Traditionally one thinks of a convent as a building inhabited by a religious community. For the most part, convents were part of parish property used as housing for sisters who were teaching in the parish school. Many convents have closed through the years and todays sisters come together in various residences in neighborhoods, apartments and in some existing convents. The building called a convent

T

MYTh: Religious communities are dying.

FACT: Some religious communities are smaller

than they have been in the past, but there are men

and women still being called to vocations. About

20 percent of religious institutes have more than

five members in formation, the process leading to

professing vows.

MYTh: Women entering religious life today prefer traditional convents and wearing habits.FACT: While some women today are looking for a more conservative religious order where habits are worn and sisters live together in community, others look to congregations that have adopted modern dress and live both within and outside a communal setting. A report released in October 2014 by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) showed that the socially active communities of women religious are attracting the same number of new entrants as the more traditional communities.

deBunking the Myths About Religious Life

WINTeR 2015 19

is not as important as the coming together, in whatever mode that takes, for community, prayer and fraternity.

Q. What does OSF mean?

A. OSF stands for the Order of St. Francis. Those letters after a womans name mean that she is a vowed member of a Franciscan community who has professed the vows of poverty, celibacy and obedience.

Q. Does the parish or diocese support the sisters financially?

A. Sisters do not receive financial support from a bishop, parish or a diocese. Each religious

congregation of sisters is independent and each is responsible for the health and welfare of their sisters. Congregations are dependent on their investments, donations and fundraising and development activities.

Whatever earnings a sister receives for a job she holds are turned over to the congregation. The congregation, in turn, provides for the living expenses of the sisters regardless of the salary or stipend the sister receives.

Q. How often do sisters pray?

A. Our prayer life includes liturgical, communal and personal prayer. Ordinarily sisters pray the Franciscan morning and evening prayer as a community and attend Mass daily.

Q. What are some jobs you can have as a sister?

A. With the closing of many parish schools sisters have ventured into various ministries that address the needs of todays world. The job/ministry of the sisters is based on an individuals talent and the opportunity of contributing to the greater good. Sisters can hold any position of service for which they are qualified. Our sisters are involved in almost every service area: education, healthcare, social services, prison ministry, pastoral and parish ministries, diocesan ministries and retreat and spiritual ministries. Our sisters are nurses, lawyers, college professors, administrators, spiritual directors, social workers and educators. As Franciscan women religious, we read the signs of the times and strive to meet those needs.

MYTh: Women religious give up their family and friends.

FACT: Relationships with family and friends may change, but there is no requirement that sisters give up contact with family members and friends they had before entering religious life.


mission advancement

pax et Bonum peace and all goodDear Friends,

I wonder if Pope Francis had the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities in mind when he wrote those introductory remarks about the Year of Consecrated Life which is being celebrated worldwide in 2015 in the Catholic Church.

He goes on to write, You have not only a glorious history to remember and to recount, but also a great history still to be accomplished! Look to the future, where the Spirit is sending you in order to do even greater things.

In speaking with sisters, Sister Roberta Smith, general minister, has asked the congregation, What is the Holy Spirit calling us to do? As women of vision, we are becoming a prophetic community. What does this mean? That we are called to create; that we follow, like pioneers, the new and exciting paths that the Holy Spirit emblazons for us. Following in the footsteps of all the saints of our community Francis and Clare, John Neumann and Mother Marianne among our other unnamed saints, we preach the gospel at all times, and when necessary use words.

I am counting on you to wake up the world, since the distinctive sign of consecrated life is prophecy. This is the priority that is needed right now.

pope fRaNCIS

From founding communities in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Syracuse, New York; Williamsville, New York; Hastings-on-Hudson, New York; and Honolulu, Hawaii; to the thousands of sisters who started ministries to care for those in need through the years; to courageous sisters whose communities were reunited to form the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities: our sisters have always said yes to the call of the Holy Spirit and yes to all of us who journey with them. And they continue to say yes to the call of the Spirit today.

In this Year of Consecrated Life I invite all of you to say yes with our sisters, and together, as a prophetic community, we will answer Pope Francis call to wake up the world!

Peace and all good,

GreGory J. GriffinCongregational Director, Mission Advancement

WINTeR 2015 21

meet our partner in ministrY

Rev. Msgr. Michael J. Yunk he sisters have prayed for me through my life. If it werent for them, I would never have thought about becoming a

priest, exclaims Rev. Msgr. Michael J. Yunk.

Msgr. Yunk was born in Williamsville, New York in 1931. As a first grader at Sts. Peter and Paul School in the village, he was taught by Sister Liguori Zudeck. She, Sister Francis Xavier Lamb

and many of our sisters had a profound effect on his formative years, and he credits them for many of his important life experiences. The sisters helped me succeed both spiritually and professionally, and I will never forget just how much they have done for me!

In 1957, Msgr. Yunk was ordained in Austria. For 27 years he served as a chaplain in the U.S. Army, and rose quickly through the ranks from lieutenant to full colonel. He says the Sisters of St. Francis prayed for him through Korea, Vietnam and Okinawa, and he could always feel their prayers and guiding presence in his life.

After his time in the Army, Msgr. Yunk returned to western New York. Since then, he has been very

active in numerous parishes, encouraging men and women to become more involved with their church communities and ministering with young people, something he enjoys a great deal. He also strives to encourage more vocations. Whats the sense of building a stable church foundation if you dont have others to follow in your footsteps? he asks. We need to encourage people to form a more positive relationship with Jesus.

Msgr. Yunk has also created customized Sisters of St. Francis chocolates, which he frequently gives to people that he meets. Each chocolate piece has the Prayer for Vocations on the back of it, and he encourages everyone to read the prayer before eating the chocolate.

PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS

Dear Saints Francis, Clare and Marianne,

We ask for your intercessions for our congregation that many women will be drawn to follow you and walk with you as Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities. We ask this in the name of our Creator God, and of his son, our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the Holy Spirit. Amen.

T


p Rev. Msgr. Michael J. Yunk

mission advancement


p Msgr. Yunks 1937 first grade class at Sts. Peter and Paul School in Williamsville, New York. Msgr. Yunk is in the front row on the far right.

As a very generous benefactor, Msgr. Yunk supports our sisters in many ways. He has made gifts towards the greatest needs of our congregation as well as to our Timau Mission in Kenya. He celebrates Mass for our sisters, serves as a valued member of our Development Advisory Council and attends most of our special events. His contributions have been many, and we are most grateful for his personal influence and tremendous support. He is our dear friend!

A gift to the Sisters of St. Francis is a gift of love. Large or small, immediate or deferred, your gift will make an important difference for our sisters, our mission, and our legacy of service.Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you always.

GIVE ONLINE www.sosf.org

GIVE BY PhONE Contact the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities regional representative closest to you.

GIVE BY MAIL Mail your check payable to Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities to the regional representative closest to you.

saYto supporting Your sisters!Yes

Congregational Mission Advancement DirectorGregory [email protected] Grant BoulevardSuite 3Syracuse, NY 13208-1797

Central New York Regional Mission Advancement DirectorRoxanne [email protected] Villa6900 Buckley RoadSyracuse, NY 13212

East CoastGregory [email protected] Grant BoulevardSuite 3Syracuse, NY 13208-1797

Hawaii/SouthwestSister Alicia Damien [email protected] Pamoa RoadHonolulu, HI 96822-1885

Western New York Regional Mission Advancement DirectorCynthia [email protected], ext. 687St. Mary of the Angels201 Reist StreetWilliamsville, NY 14221

Western Pennsylvania Regional Mission Advancement DirectorPaul [email protected], ext. 217Mount Alvernia146 Hawthorne RoadPittsburgh, PA 15209-1916

pLanned giving options

EARN AN INCOME FOR LIFE AND hELP ThE SISTERS ThROuGh A ChARITABLE GIFT ANNuITYCharitable gift annuities can provide for your financial future with a dependable, secure, and unchanging life income. When you write a check or donate securities (stock), you will immediately begin earning a fixed income for as long as you live. The age-based rates paid are far above those paid by banks, and most of the income is tax-free. With a gift annuity of $50,000, a 75-year-old woman or man could expect to receive an annual payment of 5.8% ($2,900), of which $2,215 is tax free, plus an immediate income tax deduction of $22,514. Older individuals may receive up to 9 percent on their annual payment. Distributions may be direct-deposited on a monthly or quarterly basis to your bank account. The minimum amount required to establish a Charitable Gift Annuity is $5,000. For a two-life annuity, the minimum is $10,000. You may also initiate a deferred gift annuity which pays an even higher rate.

A GIFT OF A RETIREMENT PLAN REMAINDERRetirement plan remainders such as (IRAs, 403Bs, 401Ks, etc.) left to your heirs will be subject to both income and estate taxation after your life. If you leave that remainder to your charity of choice, it will be completely tax free. This does not need to be stated in your will. You must designate it by completing a form with your retirement plan custodian, (bank, financial planner, insurance company, etc.). Consider leaving after-tax funds to your heirs.

TRANSFER A GIFT OF STOCkIf you facilitate a transfer of stock, your gift can be used as an annual gift or pledge payment or unrestricted for the sisters greatest needs.

ESTABLISh A NAMED ENDOWMENT FuNDYour current donation or future gift through your will, gift annuity or trust can establish a named fund (in honor of or in memory of your family) that will benefit the sisters forever.

Please remember the sisters as you plan your estate. Consult your attorney or tax advisor for more specific advice. For information on any current or deferred gift option, such as a trust, insurance policy, will, retirement fund, endowed fund, stock transfer, charitable gift annuity, or bequest intention please contact Paul Stabile, director of mission advancement in Western Pennsylvania at 412.821.2200, ext. 217 or [email protected].

If would like to have a planned giving professional call to discuss planned gift options, please complete the contact form below and Please place this completed form with your donation in the envelope provided.

NamE

addReSS

CITY STaTe ZIp

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emaIl addReSS

Please send me information on:m Gift Annuitiesm Trustsm Retirement Fundsm Gifts of Real Estatem Insurance Policym Bequests m How to include the Sisters of St. Francis of the Neumann Communities in my will

The sisters are already included in my estate plans.m Yesm No

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Impact Giving hoW Your gifts support our prophetiC CommunitY

CARING FOR OuR SISTERS hEALTh AND WELLNESS TRANSITIONS

The Sisters of St. Francis have adopted a holistic approach to life transitions at all ages that permeates our entire congregation. This commitment, formally titled the Philosophy of Life, encompasses every area of life including physical and emotional well being, relationships, creative expression, homelike environments, spiritual growth, healthy living and quality of life.

Individual, corporate and foundation gifts improved the health and safety of our retired sisters in 2014. Because you said yes to a gift to the Sisters of St. Francis, we were able to maintain our sisters wellbeing, promote their independence and increase their comfort in line with our Philosophy of Life commitment.

The generosity of our donors made it possible:

For sisters at St. Mary of the Angels regional house in Williamsville, New York to stay warm in winter and cool in summer due to the new heat pumps and new cooling tower we could install in the HVAC system.

For six sisters at St. Mary of the Angels to move about more safely with the new walkers we purchased.

For non-ambulatory sisters at Franciscan Villa in Syracuse, New York to be safely lifted out of bed with the help of ceiling mounted hoyer lift systems we installed in their bedrooms.

For our aging sisters living in St. Mary of the Angels health care center to sit in comfort in one of seven automatic lift recliner chairs.

For our retired sisters at Franciscan Villa who cannot open their bedroom doors without assistance to maintain their safety, dignity and independence because of the ten push plate door openers we were able to install on their bedroom doors.

For two beautiful outdoor sensory gardens at Franciscan Villa that are completely accessible.

For a sister at St. Francis Convent in Honolulu, Hawaii to receive a much-needed mobile scooter.

For sisters at Mount Alvernia in Millvale, Pennsylvania to receive help at the push of a button on the necklace or pendant that links to an in-house life alert call system that notifies internal nursing staff when a sister falls.

For two therapy bath tubs for the sisters at Franciscan Villa.

For our aging sisters at St. Francis Convent and St. Mary of the Angels to enjoy outings more safely because of the 10 lightweight wheelchairs we purchased.

For more accessible and asbestos-free bathrooms, showers and laundry room at Manoa Care Center at St. Francis Convent.

mission advancement

Are you willing to say yes to supporting the retirement needs of our sisters?

The following are current needs.

A new elevator must be installed at Mount Alvernia in Millvale, Pennsylvania. The anticipated cost will be $140,000.

Given the number of non-ambulatory sisters at Franciscan Villa, two wheelchair vans are needed in Syracuse, New York. The anticipated cost is $50,000 each.

Two new boilers are needed at St. Mary of the Angels in Williamsville, New York. This project will cost $130,000.

Please contact Gregory Griffin, congregational mission advancement director at 315.634.7085, [email protected] to say yes to supporting these upcoming projects.

Sister Patrice Ward novemBer 21, 1923 JuLY 17, 2014 After professing her perpetual vows in 1955, Sister Patrice served as director of food service at St. Anthony Convent. She went on to minister as a teacher and parish minister in Chadwicks,

Fayetteville and Dewitt, New York, as well as in Riverside, New Jersey. For 20 years, she was chaplain at St. Elizabeths Hospital in Utica, New York, St. Josephs Hospital and Francis House in Syracuse, New York. She also served as hospitality minister at Jubilee House Retreat Center in Abingdon, Virginia.

Sister Patrices loyalty to her community and her never-ending care and compassion to the sick and the dying were her trademarks. Quiet, gentle and unassuming, her peaceful presence and prayerfulness were beautiful examples for all.

Sister Patrice, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.Sister Florence Remata

novemBer 24, 1938 august 3, 2014 The sixth of 12 children, Sister Florence Remata was born in Waimea, Kauai, Hawaii. A Sister of St. Francis for 57 years, Sister Florence served in education ministry. She taught at

St. Peter School, Riverside, New Jersey; St. Joseph School, Hilo, Hawaii, where she also was vice-principal; and Our Lady of Good Counsel School, Pearl City, Hawaii.

She also served as director of religious education at Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish in Pearl City,

In prayerful memory


WINTeR 2015 25

After further studies at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Sister Veronica began her teaching career which took her from elementary grades to principal to high schools, and to college classes, where she taught dancing and typing. Wherever she went, the music went with her, and was expressed in plays, musicals, and choirs. She also played the organ in a number of churches.

Along with Sister Coleman Conroy, Sister Veronica was instrumental in establishing and managing Christian Housing, Inc., 24 communities of affordable senior adult apartments in the greater Pittsburgh area.

May Sister Veronica rest in the loving arms of God and unite her voice with all those in the heavenly choir.Sister Ruth Ann Walsh

JanuarY 13, 1928 august 15, 2014 After being taught by Franciscan sisters throughout her elementary and secondary classes, Sister Ruth Ann Walsh joined the

congregation and during her early years, taught and served as principal and/or administrator in the elementary and middle grades in a number of schools in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After spending a sabbatical year at Notre Dame University in Notre Dame, Indiana, Sister Ruth Ann prepared for a ministry of chaplaincy.

For 12 years, Sister Ruth Ann served as chaplain at Manor Care in Pittsburghs Greentree neighborhood. For the next several years,

St. Patrick Parish in Chittenango, New York and Immaculate Conception Church in Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii, where she also served as pastoral associate. Those who knew her nicknamed her The Mayor of Kauai for her friendliness and outreach. In 1991, she received the Our Lady of Peace Award from the Diocese of Honolulu.

In 2013, Sister Florence was elected regional minister for the Franciscan sisters in Hawaii, California, New Mexico and Texas. True to her belief that the glory of God is a person fully alive, she cherished her personal, Franciscan and parish families, her friends and co-workers, her students and the Franciscan Associates, especially those she invited and formed while in Kauai. Sister Veronica Marie Phillips

June 25, 1924 august 12, 2014 She could make a piano talk! From the time of her entrance into the congregation of the Sisters of St. Francis in Millvale, Pennsylvania, until her retirement, Sister

Veronica engaged in musical activities with those with whom she lived and served. In her early days in the community, she cooked and cared for our sisters in the health care unit. She often entertained the sisters with music and song, and also engaged them in plays. After studying at Carlow College in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she worked at St. Joseph House for Aged Women in Pittsburgh, where again she formed a choir with the women, and got them involved in music activities.


In prayerful memory

WINTeR 2015 27


Sister Venard had a special devotion to St. Venard, her patron saint, who himself was a special friend of the Little Flower, St. Therese of Lisieux. Throughout her life, Sister Venard grew in similar ways modeled in the spirit of St. Therese. In 2007, Sister Venard suffered a stroke which limited her in many ways, but did not deter her from ministry. In a very caring and compassionate manner she served her sisters in the health care unit at Mount Alvernia in Millvale, Pennsylvania. She was especially present to those who were near death. Sister Venard truly mirrored St. Francis in her outreach to those most in need, be it physical, emotional or spiritual.

May she rest in the peace of Christ.Sister Mary Roger Lemke oCtoBer 9, 1916 august 27, 2014 After professing her perpetual vows in 1939, Sister Mary Roger served as a teacher for 47 years in New York, New Jersey, Ohio, and Hawaii. She went on to serve at St. Joseph Hospital

in Syracuse, New York where she ministered in the microfilm department. Upon retiring at St. Anthony Convent, she worked part-time in the Communications Office and as a prayer minister at Jolenta care site and at the Franciscan Villa.

No doubt Sister Mary Roger is looking for the birds and dogs that were a part of her convent days. Her sense of humor and her daily comments on life added laughter to those around her. Her community was the focus of her love and loyalty.

Oh, why only for so short a while you have loaned us to each other. - J.R.

She served as registrar for St. Francis Hospital nurses, preparing transcripts for those requesting them. She also gave of her time answering phone, and helping sisters where help was needed. Her talents and abilities were plentiful and varied. She was very artistic and enjoyed creating beautiful bulletin boards for jubilee celebrations and special feasts. Sisters often referred to Sister Ruth Ann as kind, pleasant, joyful, fun to be with, creative, and the list goes on.

Sister Ruth Ann always treasured a great love for God and Mary. And it was on the great feast of the Assumption of Mary into heaven that God called her home. May she rest in peace.Sister Venard Kiley

august 21, 1932 august 19, 2014 God created me to do something special for all that he created. He is my destiny! This was the motto Sister Venard lived by, for her entire religious life. Her

ministries in the Diocese of Pittsburgh seemed to come in 19-year segments: for 19 years, Venard served as a Catholic elementary school teacher; for the next 19 years, she was principal at Help of Christians School; and for the next nearly 19 years, she ministered to the poor and neglected senior adults at Bry-Mard Apartments, a Christian Housing, Inc. senior adult community. She blossomed while serving in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Her desire to serve the poor always seemed to lead her to consider new horizons.

Riverside, New Jersey, North Syracuse, and Dewitt, New York. She also served as principal at Holy Family School in Fairmount, New York and assistant principal at St. Rose of Lima School in North Syracuse. Devoted to her community and to her family and friends, Sister Virginia will be remembered for serving her God with a generous heart and for enjoying life.

Your sun will set no more, nor your moon wane, but Yahweh will be your everlasting light. - Is. 60:20Sister Walter Marie Donohue

oCtoBer 11, 1915 oCtoBer 12, 2014 You will leave with joy and be led away in safety - Is.55:12

For 77 years Sister Walter Marie said yes to her loving God whom she served with great humility and faithfulness. These two virtues were the trademarks of her full and fruitful life of 99 years. A registered nurse, Sister Walter Marie served in health care ministry as a clinical nurse, teacher and administrator at St. Josephs Hospital in Syracuse, New York and at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Utica, New York. During her 22-year tenure at St. Elizabeths, she ministered as the director of the School of Nursing and dean of the College of Nursing. She was respected by all with whom she came in contact. Sister Walter Maries vision and positive influence on nurses who graduated from St. Elizabeths School of Nursing remains a 56-year legacy of devoted service.

Sister Rosanne LaManche oCtoBer 28, 1920 septemBer 23, 2014 After professing her perpetual vows in Syracuse, New York in 1944, Sister Rosanne and five sisters traveled to Hawaii in 1949.

Eventually, Sister Rosanne became the nursing supervisor in Kalaupapa, Molokai, Hawaii. This was the beginning of her profound love for the patients and sisters at the Kalaupapa mission. Her love for Father Damien de Veuster and Mother Marianne Cope was a deep core of her personality.

During her 53 years in nursing ministry, Sister Rosanne ministered at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Utica, New York; Mercy Hospital in Auburn, New York; St. Francis Hospital in Honolulu, Hawaii; Loretto Rest in Syracuse, New York and at the Jolenta care site in Syracuse. For 24 years, she served as a visiting nurse and a public health nurse in Central New York. She remained active in ministry, while being a family care minister as well, truly living the virtues of kindness and charity to all. Sister Rosanne, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.Sister M. Virginia Kenefick

JuLY 1, 1934 oCtoBer 1, 2014 After professing her perpetual vows in 1957, Sister Virginia earned a bachelors degree from the University of Dayton in Ohio and a masters degree from SUNY

Potsdam in New York. She earned a certificate in administration from Manhattan College in New York City and dedicated her life to serving God through education ministry. She taught in


WINTeR 2015 29

upcoming Retreats and events

MARCh

13 14 Flea Market Scotus Hall at Mount Alvernia,

Millvale, PA

9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Contact: Sister Karen Krebs 412.821.4302, [email protected]

Proceeds benefit Mount Alvernia Daycare and Learning Center

APRIL

10 12 Discernment Retreat Spirituality and Nature Center at

Alverna Heights, Fayetteville, NY

April 10 to 12

An opportunity for women considering religious life to experience the joy of Franciscan community life.

Contact: Sister Caryn Crook, 315.751.6819 [email protected]

22 Eat, Drink, Pray Food and Wine Tasting Celebration

Franciscan Villa, Syracuse, NY

6 to 8 p.m.

Join the Sisters of St. Francis for an evening of culinary delights and fine wines, finished off with live entertainment and a silent auction featuring gift baskets, restaurant certificates and more.

$50 per person

Contact: Roxanne Sopchak 315.634.7026 [email protected]

MAY

22 12th Annual Food & Wine TastingSt. Mary of the Angels, Williamsville, NY

5 to 7 p.m.

This 12th annual event includes the ever popular Nun-better Bake Sale, silent and live auctions, entertainment and more.

$50 per person

Contact: Cynthia Munschauer 716.632.2155, ext. 687 [email protected]

JuLY

22 Sisters of St. Francis, Millvale Golf Tournament Contact: Paul Stabile 412.821.2200, ext. 217 [email protected]

Proceeds benefit the mission and ministries of the Sisters of St. Francis.

SEPTEMBER

21 Fairway to heaven Golf Tournament

Cavalry Club, Manlius NY

Contact: Roxanne Sopchak 315.634.7026 [email protected]

Proceeds benefit the mission and ministries of the Sisters of St. Francis.

EVENTFuL hAPPENINGS

Franciscan Villa Blessing Our central New York sisters welcomed more than 500 friends and supporters for a very special house warming celebration at their new Franciscan Villa home in Syracuse.

Benefactor Appreciation Days There was great rejoicing as friends and benefactors joined with our sisters at our annual Benefactor Appreciation events held in Syracuse, Williamsville, Millvale and Honolulu in November.

Spaghetti Supper More than 800 people enjoyed a great Italian meal and Franciscan hospitality with our western New York sisters at their Nov. 2 Spaghetti Supper.

kenya Appreciation Night Friends and supporters of our sisters ministry in Kenya were hosted at a special presentation and reception with Timau Mission Sisters Joanne Gangloff and Bea Leising on Dec. 4.

p Sisters and their guests enjoyed the Benefactor Appreciation event at Mount Alvernia. Among those attending were (first row, from left) Dona Wellinger, Sister Rosita Wellinger, Mrs. Sukhdev Grover; (second row, from left) Dr. and Mrs. Elmer Holzinger, Tom Winner and Dr. Sukhdev Grover

Proceeds benefit the mission and ministries of the Sisters of St. Francis to people in need.

Tuesday, May 5 5 to 7 p.m.

St. Mary of the Angels201 Reist Street, Williamsville, New York 14221

Silent and live auctions$50 per person

For more information call Cynthia Munschauerat 716.632.2155.

K 12th ANNuAl k

Food & Wine TastingiNCludiNg The eveR-populAR

NuN-SWeeTeR BAke SAle

Wine Tasting CelebrationApril 22 6 to 8 p.m.

Franciscan Villa, Syracuse, New York

Join the Sisters of St. francis for an evening of culinary delights and fine wines, finished off with live

entertainment and a silent auction featuring gift baskets, restaurant

certificates and more.

$50 per person

Contact: Roxanne Sopchak 315.634.7026

[email protected]

Documents

Franciscan Spirit - Saying "Yes!" to God's Call, Vol. 4.1