Early Summer 2023 • www.salesiansisters.org
P artners in GivinG
Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s letter Dear Friends, The thrill of victory is displayed on our cover, as the boys’ baseball team at St. John Neumann High School in Naples, FL, clinched the Class 2A–Region 3 Florida Championship! But this wasn’t just any old win: it was the first time since 1985 that the Celtics have advanced this far. In fact, first-year coach Charlie Maurer wasn’t even born the last time this happened! The Salesian Sisters were on hand for the grand celebration. Congratulations, players, coaches, families, and Sisters! This time of year is both happy and bittersweet. Happy for the graduates of our Salesian schools as they step forward to bright futures. Bittersweet as they, and we, bid sad farewells, pledging to stay in touch. Fortunately, we Salesian Sisters haven’t much time to mope: Summer Camp Season is here! And that means our annual appeal. Please help us send as many inner-city kids as possible to a wholesome Salesian camp. See page 3. More reasons to rejoice: Jubilarian Sisters marking milestones of their vocations (pages 4-5), and the Oliva Family Pavilion is officially open for play! See pages 6-7. Summer’s here! Stay safe and well! Peace,
PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bimonthly magazine published by the
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508 Telephone: (973) 904-0102 Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS E-mail: partners@salesiansisters.org Website: www.salesiansisters.org Social Media: https://linktr.ee/salesiansisters Federal Tax ID: 22-6043753
2 • Partners in Giving • Volume 33 • Issue 3
Among the Celtics’ biggest fans are Principal Sr. Patricia Roche, Sr. Nicole Daly, and Sr. Susan Bagli – plus Sr. April Cabaccang (not pictured)!
Editorial Board Dr. Joe McAleer, Editor Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of Development Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA, Editorial Manager Theresa Anderson, Anna Anderson, and Sr. Suzanne Dauwalter, FMA, Copy Editors © 2023 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc. PRIVACY POLICY:
Your name, address, and other information are held in confidence by our ministry and will never be sold, rented, or given to any other organization. Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Serving 2,300 children in four states
Summer’s here! And so are Salesian Camps!
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an you believe summer is here?! The end of another wonderful, enriching school year brings new excitement among the Salesian Sisters as Summer Camp season is upon us. Whether having fun in the sun or in the classrooms, our Sisters and camp counselors keep Summer Camp programs located in four states in perfect motion, through the goodness and generosity of friends like YOU! I am thrilled to say, for the 15th straight year, friends from Florida have promised a $50,000 matching gift challenge for camp with a deadline of July 15. With your help, we can DOUBLE the number of children going to camp!
come Hurry! will fund Thankis Deadline
July 15!
Please help us, once again, to make a dream true for inner-city kids in need. A gift of $180 covers one week of camp for a deserving child. you, you, and God bless you! – Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA
CVV:
Congratulations, Sisters,
on your blessed Jubilees!
Sr. Eileen Joseph, FMA
Sr. Alphonsine Basque, FMA
Sr. Fanny Flores, FMA
65th Anniversary
60th Anniversary
60th Anniversary
S
r. Eileen was born in Campbellton, New Brunswick, Canada, the 13th of 14 children. Orphaned at age 2, she was adopted by her loving grandparents in Pointe Verte, where at the age of 18 she answered God’s call to the religious life. “When I was a teacher in public school, I was invited by the Salesian Sisters to give a ‘helping hand’ at the oratory,” Sr. Eileen recalls. “It was through the joy and loving kindness of the Sisters that I was drawn to the Salesian way of life.” Sr. Eileen has been a catechist on a First Nations reserve in Canada; a teacher and principal at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in San Francisco, CA, and at St. Anthony Parishes in Paterson and Elizabeth, NJ; Dean of Residents at Mary Help of Christians Academy; and the Provincial of the Pre province of Notre-Dame-du-Cap in Canada. She is presently a beloved member of the school community of Mary Help of Christians Academy.
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r. Alphonsine was born in St Wilfred, New Brunswick, Canada, the ninth of 14 children: 10 girls and 4 boys in a very united and loving family. Her father was a carpenter, and on occasion, a farmer, shoemaker, and blacksmith. Her mother was a devoted housewife and an excellent seamstress. Her parents were devout Catholics and made sure the family prayed the Rosary together every day and participated in the Sunday Eucharist. The Salesian Sisters arrived in Sr. Alphonsine’s village when she was 16 years old. The next year, at 17, she started her formation in Pointe Verte, New Brunswick. Sixty years later, Sr. Alphonsine says, “I am a happy religious and my life is a continuous ‘Magnificat’ serving the children, especially in Early Childhood education.”
4 • Partners in Giving • Volume 33 • Issue 3
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r. Fanny traveled long and far to be a Salesian Sister – all the way from Bucaramanga, Colombia! Her family provided an atmosphere of simplicity and heartfelt faith. She was a good student, alert and eager. At college in Bogotá, Fanny earned degrees in biology and chemistry. As Divine Providence would have it, her first teaching assignment was at a school administered and staffed by Salesian Sisters. The seed was sown, and Fanny watered it with her desire to be a Salesian Sister. She did her formation program in the United States. Her long journey was over – and also had just begun. Sr. Fanny’s droll humor brings laughter and cheer to all, and her quiet presence has endeared her to many over 60 years of religious life, many spent teaching the sciences at Mary Help of Christians Academy and Immaculata-La Salle High School in Miami, FL.
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
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e proudly honor our Salesian Sisters who celebrate jubilees in 2023: 6 Jubilarians whose fidelity totals 335 years of loving service and a continued “Yes” to God’s call as FMAs and in the Catholic Church. God bless you, Jubilarians!
Sr. Monique Huart, FMA
Sr. Francine Guilmette, FMA
Sr. Maryann Schaefer, FMA
60th Anniversary
50th Anniversary
40th Anniversary
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r. Monique joined our province as a Salesian missionary from Paris, France, eager to teach the faith. Her father was both a past pupil and a teacher in a technical school run by Salesian priests. “I recall knowing about St. John Bosco before Jesus,” she says, “since the biography of Don Bosco and Salesian literature were always within my reach.” Since 1967, Sr. Monique has served in many states, including Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ. Presently, she works with campus ministry at St. Francis De Sales High School in Columbus, OH. “The Lord has blessed me with a Salesian missionary vocation,” Sr. Monique writes. “It has proven to be one of the most life-giving and lovegiving experiences of my life. I have had the joy to share that love with thousands of young people and adults whom God has sent my way.”
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r. Francine was born in Montreal, Canada, one of three children. She first encountered the Salesian Sisters in 1963 at the Oratory-Youth Center of St. Claire Parish. She met several fun Sisters who challenged her to be a youth leader. Her Salesian ministry experience engaged her as a teacher; a parish coordinator of catechesis and youth ministry; an Associate Director for World Youth Day; and co-foundress of a discernment program for young adults. “Throughout my life, I focused on proposing a life-giving vision rooted in Jesus Christ,” Sr. Francine says. “I was motivated by a passionate desire to walk with young people as they search to integrate their dreams and unique gifts in their unique call to love and live their lives to the fullest. I am blessed to have been given 50 years so far to nurture and encourage the potential of young people with faith, hope, and love! Thank you, Lord, for this wonderful gift.”
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
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r. Maryann writes, “I was born to Don and Evelyn Schaefer in San Mateo, CA. I did not know the Salesian Sisters until the eighth grade, when I made a weekend retreat and ‘fell in love.’ But the love story ended in college, when my father asked me to return home as my mother was ill. But Sr. Mary Pollini, Superior of the house in Aptos, CA, said to me, ‘Maryann, the door will always be open for you.’ “As I look back on 40 years of Salesian religious life, I marvel at the great things the Lord has done in me! Eight World Youth Days; summer camp directress; bus driver and softball coach for Mary Help of Christians Academy; and Campus Minister at the University of Illinois. During the last five years, I’ve served as the Catechetical Leader at St. Patrick’s & Assumption/All Saints Parish in Jersey City. “I am forever grateful. By God’s grace I am here, and by God’s grace, I go forward!”
Partners in Giving • Early Summer 2023 • 5
The Oliva Family Pavilion is dedicated in Tampa
At long last: relief from the scorching sun!
J
ust one month shy of two years, Villa Madonna Campus in Tampa, FL, celebrated the blessing and ribbon-cutting of the new Oliva Family Pavilion and the complete renovation of the North end of the campus on May 19. For far too long, the kids of both Villa Madonna School and the Salesian Youth Center played on the blacktop pavement and watched in excitement, asking constantly, “When will it be done?” And now it is!
The Pavilion project cost $3.9 million, and we have about $400,000 left to meet our goal and repay the extraordinarily generous 0% interest loan from the Oliva family, who have covered the shortfall. Please join us in investing in our youth as they now enjoy a safer environment! Visit www.villapavilion.com to learn more. Thank you!
Mark Oliva and the Oliva family spearheaded the project, watching over every aspect of it, making sure construction was accurate and complete, and enacting a campus cleanup and beautification. At 9 a.m., eighth-graders Gracie Wood, Matthew Acosta, and Lundyn Parsons emceed the event. They called up Rick Fee, Chairman of the Salesian Youth Center Board, who offered the opening prayer. Sr. Mary Rinaldi and Mark Oliva spoke about the history of the project and thanked the supporters. Bishop Gregory Parkes of the Diocese of St. Petersburg (who was present at the groundbreaking) blessed the area. Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza, Villa Madonna Principal, thanked the Oliva family.
Above, students are so happy to play basketball with Sr. Mary Jackson, their former principal who came to visit for the occasion.
Catering by the Family provided breakfast for the event, Matt Nassif of Joe Photo did the photography, and Jennie’s Flowers provided the bouquet in front of the statue of Our Lady.
At left, Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza, principal, addresses the gathering.
The Oliva family, Diana Campo Ekonomou, and other friends of Villa Madonna joined the Sisters to cut the ribbon. “The power of giving is as strong as the hands of prayer,” Mark Oliva said. “Investing in our youth is the foundation of opportunities for future generations.”
At right, Javier and Cindy Baldor join Mark and Heidi Oliva for the historic occasion.
6 • Partners in Giving • Volume 33 • Issue 3
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Above, the ribbon is cut! Diana Campo Ekonomou does the honors, joined by Villa Madonna’s Student Government representatives, Sr. Joanne Holloman, Sr. Mary Rinaldi, Heidi and Mark Oliva and their son Chase, John and Lydia Oliva, Bishop Gregory Parkes, Sr. Mary Jackson, Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza, and Wayne Brown of Wichman Construction. At right, second graders sang a special song for the guests. Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Early Summer 2023 • 7
Now more than ever
Please Adopt a Sister!
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lease consider joining our friends of all faiths who have experienced the transforming power of prayer and loving friendship with a Salesian Sister, every day of the year, through our Adopt a Sister Program. Whether the Adopted Sister is for yourself, a family member, or a friend in need of spiritual strength, you will find comfort knowing that your intentions will be remembered each day by your spiritual prayer partner, and your sacrificial gift will support our elderly Sisters. It makes the PERFECT gift, especially for a wedding, birthday, First Holy Communion, Confirmation – any occasion! Please complete the form below, visit www.salesiansisters.org, or call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you, and God bless you! Many happy returns, Sr. Louise Passero! Joining in the fun at the St. Joseph Provincial Center are Sr. Lidia Setti and Sr. Helene Godin.
CVV: _____________
8 • Partners in Giving • Volume 33 • Issue 3
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
T
he Salesian Sisters Partners Circle was founded in 1991 to provide unrestricted funds for urgent needs of the Salesian Sisters and their mission. These include support for capital needs, scholarship assistance, technology upgrades, and funds for those unforeseen situations that require immediate attention. Your annual contribution to this fund empowers the Sisters to continue their mission: To Provide Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and to the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life.
32nd
The fire which destroyed St. Joseph Chapel in North Haledon, NJ, in 2018 underscored the vital importance of the Partners Circle Fund, enabling the Sisters to respond quickly in an emergency and begin the rebuilding process – now complete! There are 8 levels of membership, starting at $250, which are listed on these four pages. PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees, a group of talented lay people who advise the Sisters on distribution of the fund. Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group in our 32nd year? Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you and God bless you!
The Joseph J. McAleer, Sr. Heritage Society Major Bequests FLORIDA Dorothy & Dr. Vincent Bagli Josie & Ray Campo Anne & Joseph Garcia Ann Lowry Murphey Angel Oliva Family The Dorothy Thomas Foundation
NEW JERSEY Tony Amato Family The Carini Family Mr. Anthony Petrocelli Ms. Roberta Ruocco Ms. Celeste Tripi Mr. Vincent Waraske
Partners Circle “Partners” Annual gift of $5,500
INDIANA FLORIDA Mr. & Mrs. Judson Church Mr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor Patricia Connors --Lydia & John Oliva MASSACHUSETTS Susan & Jeff Turner Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair PC ----NEW JERSEY Joseph Batelli NEW YORK Chris & Gemma Chong Mr. Silvio Alfeo Al Daloisio, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Paul Cangro Anthony & Geraldine Dell’Orto Beruta Dell’Orto Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Laino --VIRGINIA Mr. Bill McLaughlin Mr. & Mrs. Greg Mueller Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer Joseph & Rita Weiner
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Welcome
55
new or upgraded Partners Circle Members in 2023! Shown in RED
Partners Circle “Stewards” Annual gift of $11,000 FLORIDA Sherry Millar --NEW JERSEY Anonymous
Partners Circle “Friends” Annual gift of $3,300
CONNECTICUT Mary Bridget Gaine --FLORIDA Idalia Lastra Barket --NEW JERSEY Frank & Rosemary Lupo Family
PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow
Partners in Giving • Early Summer 2023 • 9
Partners Circle “Founders” Annual gift of $2,200 CONNECTICUT Christina & David McAleer PC --DELAWARE Maria Sturchio --FLORIDA Ms. Caroline Barnhill Anne & John Bedlek Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Clark Anthony & Diana Ekonomou Maria Restrepo Forte Mrs. Kathleen Medore Robert Nocek NEW JERSEY Mr. Robert Eliseo Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann Marilyn & Dale Livi
The O’Halloran Family Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Papetti Andrelisa Michel & Michael Russo --NEW YORK Jordon Carroll Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala --NORTH CAROLINA Mr. Sean Nassoly --PENNSYLVANIA In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA --SOUTH CAROLINA Tom & Laurie Aldinger
Partners Circle “Benefactors” Mr. & Mrs. Charles Ramsey, Jr. Rudy Rodriguez --MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Neil Holmes Mr. & Mrs. Ted Reading --NEW JERSEY Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Amatuzzi Mrs. Theresa Cannarozzi Mr. & Mrs. James Cavaluzzi Ms. Debi F. Debiak, Esq. Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Della Cerra Mr. & Mrs. Martin Flemming FLORIDA Mr. & Mrs. Tom Furey Mrs. Bernadine Ayer Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell Mrs. Liana Baldor, Miss Mary Jean Hayek in memory of James Construction Carlos & Ana Maria Baldor Company, Inc. Joseph & Claudine Caballero PC Michael & Mary Losurdo Rick & Patti Caldevilla PC Mr. Joseph Massood Mrs. Patricia Driscoll Mrs. Faith Menard Dr. Giacomo & Judy Guggino Mary Ann Munson Aida Yglesias Jurado Dr. & Mrs. Wayne Obetz Greg & Lori Korte Robert & Constance Sumas Mr. & Mrs. Frank Middendorf Mrs. Carolyn Young Mr. & Mrs. Rob Obbink --Ms. Marianne O’Doherty NEW YORK Mr. Fredy Padovan Jo Ann & Joseph Caracappa Gene & Linda Perez Paul & Stephanie Gerardi John & Diann Pinkowski ARIZONA Mrs. Ann Marie Forster --CALIFORNIA Mary & Robert Obenberger Mr. & Mrs. Donald Onken --COLORADO Jamie & Paul Condit --CONNECTICUT Linda & Peter Christiansen PC Fabrizio & Barbara Zichichi
Welcome new or upgraded members in Red! PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees.
Annual gift of $1,100
Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Silveri --PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Glen Berdela Msgr. Robert Carroll Dr. Allyson & Mr. Kevin Hardy
Mrs. Eileen Seeburger --TENNESSEE Mr. Leonard V. Ingrando
Partners Circle “Associates” Annual gift of $825
CONNECTICUT Mr. Michael Guarnieri PC Dr. Joe McAleer PC --FLORIDA Declan & Shelly Mansfield Anne & Fred Michaels Rene & Phyllis Rodriguez Mr. & Mrs. Terry Wood --NEW JERSEY Joseph W. & Kathleen Buckley Mr. & Mrs. Greg Scott --NEW YORK Anonymous
INDIANA Sandra M. Freeman --VIRGINIA Dr. Evelyn Garcia & Michael Maurer
Partners Circle “Members” CALIFORNIA Joanne & Geraldine Rizzuto --CONNECTICUT Mr. Edward F. Goin Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey --FLORIDA Dr. Kenneth Alonso Theresa & Mark Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr. PC Dr. Stephanie A. Canada Mrs. Trudy Carey Mr. & Mrs. Charles Corces, in memory of Charles J. Corces Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria Manny & Aggie Fernandez Mrs. Leslie Garcia PC Joseph Phillip, Jr. & Julia Jones Mr. James D. Leone Kelly Barcia Nunez PC Mark & Heidi Oliva PC Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds Rudy Rodriguez Hon. & Mrs. E.J. Salcines Ron Yates
GEORGIA Mr. Charles Fantauzza Mrs. Brooke McDonald --ILLINOIS The Mills Family The Rangel Family --LOUISIANA Mr. & Mrs. George LeBlanc --MARYLAND Adrienne & Albert Marra --MASSACHUSETTS Amanda Clair Mr. Xavier Clair --NEW JERSEY Tiziana Anello, M.D. Mrs. Rose Bielicki Mrs. Regina Calcagno Christus Vincit, Christus Regnat, Christus Imperiat Larry & Mary Anne Condit Mr. & Mrs. Andrew J. Dunn Mr. & Mrs. Clement Farley
Annual gift of $550
OHIO Mr. & Mrs. Michael Ferrito Dale & Lynda Kovach Dr. & Mrs. Lou Gambetta PC In memory of Joann Giamonco Mr. Fred Mastrogiovanni Vivian Isenberg Ginnie Stidham Mr. James Lane --Laura Cosentino Mannarino PENNSYLVANIA Riley Obetz Joseph & Joyce Boyle & Corrinne Rieser Mr. & Mrs. Brian Clair George & Jeannie Pavlik Ms. Kate Clair Mrs. Christine Peragallo Mr. Brennan Obetz Twinkie & Michael Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski Polizzi PC ----SOUTH CAROLINA NEW YORK Mackenzie Clair Michael & Jeanette Altamura --Mr. & Mrs. Jack Betwarda TENNESSEE Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Clair Pat & Terence Clair Ms. Claire Dell --The Esposito Family UTAH Mr. & Mrs. Robert M. Greene Dr. Elizabeth Sledden Dybell Ms. Lena Huang --Mr. Walter Lazarcheck VIRGINIA Mr. Joseph V. Miressi Mrs. Dominique Faust Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec ----WASHINGTON NORTH CAROLINA Mr. Keiran C. Clair The Hasher Family
On April 28, the Partners Circle hosted its first “Mingle” event in North Haledon, NJ as a thank you to current and past members. Following Mass in St. Joseph’s Chapel, Partners and their guests joined Salesian Sisters in the Mary Help gymnasium for food and fellowship. Here Partners Circle Chairman, Dennis Clair, addresses the gathering. Many guests joined the Partners Circle that evening! Won’t you also please join this exceptional group?
Partners Circle “Quarter Century Club” Annual gift of $250
CALIFORNIA Jeanann Davis Patrick & Kasia Gorman Rev. Paula T. Webb --CONNECTICUT Anonymous Mrs. Eileen G. Hahnenkratt Mrs. Concetta Luppino Mr. Patrick J. Waide, Jr. --DELAWARE Mr. & Mrs. Stevan Csanady --FLORIDA Kurt & Laura Badertscher Jon & Michelle Barry Marilyn Collins Brig. Gen. & Mrs. Thomas V. Draude, USMC-Ret. Mr. & Mrs. Patrick C. Duffy Arthur & Maria Fierman Mr. & Mrs. Edward Gomez, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Richard Lebron Joan Palmer John & Pauline Pedrero Jim & Rita (Zoppo) Vietmeier --MARYLAND Arina O. Grossu PC Mrs. Josephine Savage
Ms. Joanne Williams MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Steven Mr. Seamus Clair Wojtowicz --MISSOURI Mr. Edward M. Zambrano Jim Weis NEW YORK --Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Clair NEW HAMPSHIRE Mr. & Mrs. Thomas DiMicelli Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Collison --Mr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio NEW JERSEY The Halling Family Anonymous Maria DaGrossa-Hanna PC Megan & J.T. Hunt Julie Caucino Ms. Peggeann Larywon Collins & Hogan Families Mrs. Carolyn Mesler Mr. & Mrs. Raymond P. Madeleine & Rene Corbett Mr. & Mrs. Donald Cronrath Perrin PC --Ms. Patrice Enyart NORTH CAROLINA Mr. & Mrs. Paul Galimi Chester & Monica Michewicz Mr. & Mrs. David Hess --Msgr. Raymond Kupke OHIO Theodore & Lynda Leo Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. Lindsay Logue Catherine Miller --PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Nowak Bernadette & Fred Cairoli Mrs. Mary Ann Ryan Mr. Pangor Cycles Gene & Lorraine Signoretti Mr. & Mrs. William Hayes Anna & Richard --Spalckhaver SOUTH CAROLINA Maura Sullivan Elizabeth Craig Maura & Michael Testa & Michael Reeves, Jr. Mr. Eugene Veltri
Sr. Colleen Clair visits with parents of Mary Helpers: Kari Nixon, Celia Galimi, Ashley Mercado, Denise Dorgan, and Danesa Wojtowicz.
12 • Partners in Giving • Volume 33 • Issue 3
Welcome new or upgraded members in Red! PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees. Ed & Luciann Slomkowski --VIRGINIA Mr. & Mrs. Michael Deighan Wanda & Michael Pomatto Mrs. Shannon Whitmore --WISCONSIN Mr. & Mrs. Conor Clair
Sr. Karen Dunn enjoys the company of Partners Circle Members Michael Polizzi, former Board Chairman Bill McLaughlin, and Treasurer Mike Guarnieri. Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Dear Friends: A message from Sister Joanne
As the saying goes, “All good things...”
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e have all heard the adage, “All good things come to an end.” Over these past six years I have had the honor and privilege to meet you through this magazine and share with you, from the heart as friends. I am now ready to turn the pen over to my successor, Sr. Colleen Clair, who will be the second Provincial Superior of our Province of St. Joseph. I am sure her periodic meetings with you here will bring her as much joy as they did to me. I remember the first article I wrote as Provincial after our unification of the Eastern United States Province and the Canadian Pre-Province. I expressed that the mandate of our newlyformed St. Joseph Province was to accept a new challenge and adventure so that we could serve the young and their families with renewed dedication and love.
I remember that I asked each of you to pray one Hail Mary every day that the Salesian charism would grow stronger and deeper in North America, and that we would be blessed with vocations. Through the years you have seen this growth and the many blessings we have received as you leafed through our magazine and saw the beautiful photos that depicted the great work being done for God’s glory and salvation of souls. Thank you for being such a vital part of our past, present, and future, and an integral part of our life.
Through the years you have been with us on this journey of dedication and love as we experienced natural disasters, the Chapel fire, buildings and renovations, celebrations and grief, beginnings and endings.
Through the years, you have been with us on this journey of dedication and love as we experienced natural disasters, the Chapel fire, buildings and renovations, celebrations and grief, beginnings and endings. Through the years, we have all felt the love of God and the protection of His mother Mary and good St. Joseph. Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Thank you for journeying with us and supporting our efforts in so many ways. St. Mary Mazzarello, our co-foundress (shown here with me in Rome), would write to her Sisters, “Let us meet in the Heart of Jesus.”
As I begin my new assignment at Sacred Heart Center/ Novitiate in Newton, NJ, in August, know that I will remember each of you and your family in prayer, bringing your intentions to the Heart of Jesus.
Sr. Joanne Holloman, FMA, is the Superior of the Province of St. Joseph Partners in Giving • Early Summer 2023 • 13
Memorials
A Love That Lasts Forever
Received between April 3 and June 6, 2023
You can honor a cherished relative or friend with an everlasting gift of love – a memorial. Our Partners in Giving Memorials & Tributes give you the opportunity to comfort those who have lost a loved one or to commemorate a special occasion. This gift lives forever, joining our loved ones to the prayers of the Salesian Sisters while supporting their good works. The name of your loved one will appear in our Partners in Giving magazine – a priceless gift to those you love. Give the gift that lasts forever. Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of: ____ $25
____ $20
Memorial for Tribute for
____$15
$
Name – DECEASED Name – LIVING
Occasion Please send an acknowledgement to: Name Address My Name Address
Alice Oliva Ms. Vivien A. Oliva
Dr. Joan M. Kelly Dr. Joe McAleer
Loray Perez Ms. Vivien A. Oliva
Frank Wilpert Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Quinn
Beverly O. Vail Ms. Vivien A. Oliva
Jacqueline E. Goin Rev. Paula T. Webb
Vanessa V. Jensen Ms. Vivien A. Oliva
Deacon Jim Puliatte Ms. Angela G. Rodin
Allyson V. Hillard Ms. Vivien A. Oliva
Kathleen Reilly Ms. Marie Clancy
Sr. Rosalie Ragusa, FMA Mr. & Mrs. John Palmeri
William J. Riordan Mrs. Maryann Riordan
Teresa Gutto Ms. Robin Garabed Ms. Jean Escalona Ms. Lynelle Tedesco Angela D. Conte Ms. Suzanne Marie Lieto Ms. Raphael Giampiccolo Albert Romano & Karen Golubieski Ms. Diane M. Marinko Mr. Stanley M. Elia Ms. Liz Gluck Mr. Alexander Pugliese Mr. Domenico DeSantis Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Della Pia Ms. Maria Bozzone Ms. Maria Martucci Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Boccassini Ms. Tina Nardi
John M. Scala Mrs. Lola Scala
Angela Armenio Mr. & Mrs. Donald Kapit Caroline Prestigiacomo Mr. Richard Caldwell Jayne H. Cohen Mr. Xavier Clair
Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope. Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
Richard Fletcher Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Quinn
Terese Truchan Ms. Janet M. Meger
Tributes Received between April 3 and June 6, 2023 Sr. Colleen Clair, FMA, Mary Help Class of 1988, on becoming Provincial Superior Ms. Debi F. Debiak, Esq. Sr. Teresita Teran, FMA Mr. & Mrs. Catherine Golding
On the Journey with Sister B
Change is inevitable but good ... I think ...
I
have mixed feeling about this time of year. With the many changes that occur, there is excitement but also some sadness and anxiety about what is “to come.” This year is particularly big because, as I sit at Mary Help of Christians Academy, we are facing a change in leadership: from the Head of School to the incredible Sr. Kelly Schuster (who will be fantastic), and from the Provincial Superior to the charismatic Sr. Colleen Clair (who will also be fantastic). There is a plethora of other changes that require a letting go or stretching that is not always comfortable, but makes space for God to work in our otherwise narrow plan of how our life should go.
am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland!” (Isaiah 43:19). So with each year comes the possibility of a new assignment or “obedience”; a new adventure, which keeps us always “adventuring” and doing things many things we never imagined, even if we have a bottle of Aleve in our backpack while we do it. I am sure you can relate, because although God may not have given you a Provincial to ask you to go somewhere new, your “obediences” are probably whispered through conversations with your spouse, your children, your employer, and in the depths of your heart during prayer as you listen to your body and soul’s needs.
Some change is fun. Some change is scary. Some change is frustrating. Some change is thrilling, but eventually, some change is inevitable.
I’ve realized as I have grown older (yes, I am older now, nearing 40, so I can say that!), that I really don’t like change. When I was younger, I thought it was exciting, because it satisfied my drive for adventure, but now I am a little less adventurous and desire more stability, which I think is normal for this phase of life. Most near-40-year-olds aren’t skydiving anymore, but looking for Aleve in the pain relief aisle as lower back pain sets in – but that doesn’t mean we can’t be stretched to be adventurous, and that is the wonder of being a Salesian Sister! The Lord whispers to each of us, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Some change is fun. Some is scary. Some change is frustrating. Some is thrilling, but eventually, some change is inevitable. The weather changes, technology changes, and we change, hopefully for the better.
In his letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul acknowledges that, for Christians, change is a positive part of our encounter with God, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17). As we embrace the changes that approach and those that are already settling in, may we find in their newness the peace that comes from knowing that, “The LORD [our] God will be with [us] wherever [we] go” (Joshua 1:9). – Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA Partners in Giving • Early Summer 2023 • 15
Please “Give Us This Day”!
Our exchange of love
D
o you have a happy occasion you would like to share? The Salesian Sisters will celebrate with you for an entire month. Is it a time to mark a less-than-happy occasion? Our prayer for 30 days will commemorate this event in your life. Have you someone to thank? All of us will help multiply this gratitude to that special person. Is there a special person or event to bring to the attention of your friends? Then please “Give Us This Day”! Any event, person, or situation that merits special attention will be posted outside our chapel. The Sisters will pray for that intention and for the person who requests prayers for the day, and whose sacrificial gift supports the endowment for our retired Sisters. Let this exchange of time be an example of our concern and love for one another. Know that you are special to us. Our prayers rise daily for you and your dear ones. Thank you, and God bless you! When she’s not tending the flowerbeds at the St. Joseph Provincial Center, Sr. Eileen Tickner can be found at the Passaic Neighborhood Center for Women, where the Diocese of Paterson and religious communities provide a safe place for women to meet, share, and grow in a peaceful environment.
Give Us This
Day
Please give us this day/these days in 2023 in honor of my special request(s):
Please detach and mail this form in the enclosed envelope. Thank you!
16 • Partners in Giving • Volume 33 • Issue 3
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
ST. THERESA SCHOOL, Kenilworth, NJ – Welcome, Novices! Students loved the smiles and sunshine brought to their classrooms and on the playground. Come back again soon, Sisters!
O
ne of the milestones on the path to becoming a Salesian Sister is attending classes as a Novice at Assumption College for Sisters in Denville, NJ. This May, the second-year Novices completed their studies and received their Certificate of Theological Studies. Congratulations, Sisters, on your hard work!
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Early Summer 2023 • 17
SALESIAN SCHOOLS ! CORPUS CHRISTI HOLY ROSARY SCHOOL, Port Chester, NY – On May 20, Corpus Christi Holy Rosary School honored Hope Vespia, Rye Town Clerk, with the 2023 Fr. Peter M. Rinaldi Award, bestowed at the school’s annual fundraising gala, held at Tamarack Country Club in Greenwich, CT. Hope’s dedication and service to the community have impacted our students, their families, and our school in so many ways. It was an honor to celebrate such a beloved and valued member of the greater Port Chester family. More than 200 people attended, and $100,000 was raised, which will directly benefit students and also help to refurbish the outdoor play area. Pictured with Hope are Deirdre McDermott, principal (left), and Sr. Lise Parent, school president. Photos by John Raiola
Gathered to celebrate the legacy of Fr. Peter Rinaldi, SDB, are: Terry Fanelli, Sr. Lise Parent, Dominick and Lori Neri, Steven and Hope Vespia, Deirdre McDermott, Fritz Falanka, Mary Ellen Scala, and Sr. Kathleen Deighan.
18 • Partners in Giving • Volume 33 • Issue 3
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Salesian School Alumni Spotlight
“I attribute all of who I am to Villa Madonna”
L
ooking for that perfect smile? Look no further than Delaney Valdes, an alumna of Villa Madonna School, class of 2011. Delaney just graduated in the top 10 of her class at Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. She will be specializing in Pediatric Dentistry, and will spend the next two years working at Temple Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. Partners in Giving caught up with Delaney to reminisce about her time at Villa Madonna.
Some of the faculty who hold a special place in my heart are Ms. Bertha Borroto, Mrs. Angie Tillman, and Señora Roxana Rodríguez. But my favorite has to my real-life grandmother, Ms. Rosemary Telese! I always remember the Sisters, Sr. Mary Jackson and Sr. Colleen Clair, playing basketball with the boys, which I think is pretty cool.
Delaney Valdes, Villa grad (2011) and NSU grad today.
Both of them also always guided us young girls, with no question about religion and faith being too complex for them to talk with us about.
How has your Villa Madonna experience helped you grow into “I was at Villa for What is your favorite memory from who you are today? Villa Madonna? 9 years, so in a way I attribute all of who I It has to be the Salesian Youth am to Villa Madonna. I was a student Rallies! I looked forward to January Villa raised me. It’s there for nine years, so in a way Villa every year because of them. where I learned and raised me. It is where I learned and There is something so special lived my core values first. It is where lived my core values” about so many peers from different I learned to navigate friendship, schools and families coming together leadership, hard work, and grace. to celebrate. I can honestly say I wouldn’t be the person I am My eighth-grade year was the largest of the youth today without attending Villa Madonna. rallies I attended. My friends all made signs for St. John Bosco and used the opportunity to meet students from What does being a Villa alumna mean to you? other schools. It means being proud to be an Eagle! It means knowing every fact about St. John Bosco and carrying What part of your time at Villa Madonna are you the Salesian values with you always. most grateful for? I am entering a residency to become a children’s For me, Villa Madonna was my home away from dentist in the fall. In many of my interviews I cited the home, and even sometimes my safe haven. The faculty Salesian Sisters as being my inspiration for wanting to and Salesian Sisters treated me as family. Every faculty work with children for the rest of my life. member loved their students and pushed us to be the best version of ourselves. Who were your favorite teachers and Sisters? I am so grateful to have been a part of the forever That’s an impossible question! There are so many! Villa Madonna family! Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Early Summer 2023 • 19
SALESIAN SCHOOLS !
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, North Haledon, NJ – The annual Spring musical, Mary Poppins, was practically perfect! The cast and crew began with a special performance for five area elementary schools; 500 attended! They next performed three shows for a general audience, to rousing applause. Congratulations to Ms. Annie Challice and the production team, as well as all our students who made the show such a success!
ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, Marrero, LA – During the Year of the Eucharist in the Catholic Church, Academy of Our Lady has taken on the challenge of incorporating the Eucharist in everyday life. On May 1, Academy hosted a Eucharistic Procession on campus. Fr. Sidney Speaks, pastor of St. Joseph the Worker Parish, presided over the event, focused on the Eucharist and adoration. The evening, open to the community as well, began with a Eucharistic procession (with sophomore Kayla Boudreaux carrying the cross), beginning and ending in the school chapel. Throughout parts of the school, the procession stopped for a blessing and a time of Adoration and prayer. “God does not call us into isolation, to make it on our own,” says Sr. Lillian Foxx, FMA. “He calls us to community. This was a beautiful opportunity to worship as a school family and publicly proclaim the True Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. We follow Christ.”
20 • Partners in Giving • Volume 33 • Issue 3
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL, Hawthorne, NJ – On May 24, the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, St. Anthony’s held their Salesian Sodalities Induction Ceremony after the Rosary and May Crowning. As members of the Salesian Sodality, students are encouraged to live their faith and perform works of charity. IMMACULATA–LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, Miami, FL – Students Isaac Freudman, Veronica Salazar, and Carolina Moreno joined other young people at the Telemundo studios for a virtual meeting. Students in Miami, New York, and Los Angeles discussed the most pressing issues that their communities struggle with today. Pope Francis himself participated! The event was organized by Scholas Occurrentes, an international educational movement started by Pope Francis to deepen the Church’s understanding of the needs of the time, and find creative solutions for them with the students’ help.
SALESIAN SCHOOLS !
CORPUS CHRISTI HOLY ROSARY SCHOOL, Port Chester, NY – Students have been learning lessons in caring for the environment, thanks to a Laudato Si’ microgrant issued by the St. Joseph Province. The school’s Kiwanis Builders Club purchased a mini greenhouse and raised garden beds. The Salesian Sisters, led by Sr. Boram Lee, are sharing the backyard of their convent for the club’s garden, which will cultivate produce for the local food pantry.
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, North Haledon, NJ – “On your mark, get set, GLOW!” This year’s Glow-in-the- Dark Volleyball at Mary Help combined tournament competitions with having fun in the black-lit gym. With the volleyball court and net outlined in neon tape and special t-shirts worn, students bumped, set, and spiked their glow in the dark. Led by Mary Help’s Student Council, this unique event is always a hit!
22 • Partners in Giving • Volume 33 • Issue 3
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Province of St. Joseph of the Eastern U.S. & Canada Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397
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H
e’s got game. But so does she! Bishop Gregory Parkes of the Diocese of St. Petersburg (at 6’8” the tallest bishop in the U.S.!) takes a shot while Sr. Mary Jackson attempts a block on the new basketball court in the Oliva Family Pavilion on the Villa Madonna Campus in Tampa, FL. And the ball went in!
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