LATE SUMMER 2026
A PUBLICATION OF THE SALESIAN SISTERS OF ST. JOHN BOSCO
Dear Friends, This summer brought both sorrow and joy to our Salesian family. We experienced the unexpected passing of our beloved Sister Nivia Arias, whose life was a beautiful witness to love and generous service. I invite you to read more about her life on page 7. And yet, there has been joy to balance our loss. We rejoiced in Jubilee anniversaries, welcomed four Sisters making their First Vows, and celebrated one Sister’s Perpetual Vows. Our summer camps were bursting with young people, and we’re preparing to welcome six more young women who want to become Salesian Sisters. Through it all, we continue our mission with hope and gratitude because of you—our dear friends. You are in my prayers each day as we continue to be partners in faith and giving!
PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bimonthly magazine published by the
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco 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 © 2026 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc.
Save the Date! ROSARY FOR VOCATIONS Sunday, September 27, 2026 Sunday, October 25, 2026 1st THURSDAY RETREAT DAY Responding to Our Baptismal Call: Recognizing God's Initiative Thursday, October 1, 2026 9:00am - 1:00pm Sacred Heart Spirituality Center, Newton, NJ 23rd ANNUAL SISTER MARY RINALDI AUCTION Thursday, October 29, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Editorial Board Sr. Christina Chong, FMA, Editor Sr. Katie Flanagan, FMA, Director of Development Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA, Editorial Manager 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. Cover: Sister Ramona Beltre, Camp Director, helps a young person into a paddle boat at Mary Help of Christians Camp.
A MESSAGE FROM SISTER COLLEEN
St. John Bosco's Preventive System: A Practical Model
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efore I began authoring these articles, I appreciated parents for their trust in our educational method. I’ve learned that spelling out the particulars of our Preventive System is important; the more you know, the more strongly connected you feel to our Salesian Family. There is a book our Novices study titled, A Fruitful Grafting of the Spirituality of St. John Bosco in the Life of Mother Emilia Mosca. I feel this book is mistitled; it should be called, How to be a Good Teacher. Why? Because it outlines the ways that Mother Emilia understood her students, and how much her approach aligned with the ideal teachers that Don Bosco described. She said, “We all have to work with the same goal, with one heart and one soul: to form women who are empowered, upright, justly critical, open hearted and altruistic, apostolic women of the Church, the family and society. We are all called to aim at this.” Mother Emilia connected with her students, she worked hard for her students, and she recognized their individuality. At a concrete level, our teaching method is unique; it differed from preceding educational philosophies. Don Bosco introduced the notion that education is a matter of the heart (although he is rarely acknowledged as the originator of this concept). Our Sisters know that the way you teach with the Preventive System is an art…that Don Mother Emilia Mosca Bosco mastered. He wrote, “Remember that education is a matter of the heart, of which God alone is the Master, and that we can achieve nothing unless God teaches us the art and hands us the key.” Mother Emilia was both an eminent educator to her students as well as a gifted mentor for
our Sisters who were new teachers. To Don Bosco’s own niece, who was a Sister, she said, “Eulalia, try to love your educators, your pupils, very much. Take it as a maxim to praise and encourage a good deed rather than chastise a fault. Be most diligent in the preparation of your lessons.” Mother Emilia emphasized the importance of assessing each student on arrival to ensure their physical and emotional needs were being met, so that they were prepared to undertake learning in the best way possible. She advised, “Let the students work, help them, direct them, but let them take initiative… Do not impose. Only in Heaven can we know the great influence of allowing them to work together in an educational institution.” Knowing how critical it is to understand her students and their circumstances, Mother Emilia also wrote, “Each person has a ray of goodness…be maternally observant in order to know the young person…It is a great grace to know the people we are called to guide. It is a grace that comes from reflection and prayer.” Teachers who know their students beyond the classroom learn a great deal about them, and are wellpositioned to advise them. Mother Emilia made a distinct and loving impression on her students. Teresa Pentore, whom she taught, indicated, “She knew how to earn the esteem and affection of her pupils and always obtained what she wanted of them. She was gentle, but strong and firm in her demands. She had the art of making herself loved and feared [...]. She made herself all to all, she listened to us with motherly affection. She was always ready to sacrifice herself for everyone.” She brought Don Bosco’s Preventive System to life in her classroom; she was truly a practical model of it. —Sr. Colleen Clair, FMA, is the Provincial of St. Joseph Province
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JUBILEE CELEBRATION
Clockwise from top left: Sister Emy De Filippi and her grand nephew; Sister Domenica DiPeri and Paterson Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney; Sister Ines Valentin and Sister Sadeh Abed Alnour bring the gifts; Sister Cora Bebosa and Sister Mary Bertha Paquin prepare to process in while Sister Myriam Meus looks on; Sister Colleen Clair, Sister Sadeh, Sister Cora, and Sister Domenica during Mass; Sister Mary Bertha gives words of gratitude following the liturgy; Sister Sadeh, Sister Carmela Termine, and Sister Ines before Mass. Opposite page: the Jubilarians renew their vows during the liturgy. All photos by Joe Gigli.
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JUBILEE CELEBRATION
“The Lord Has Done Great Things for Us and We Are Filled with Joy!”
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n Sunday, July 12th, thirteen Salesian Sisters celebrated landmark anniversaries — for a total of 755 years of religious profession! Following Mass with Paterson Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney, the jubilarians expressed their gratitude. Above all, we give thanks to Almighty God, whose faithful love has sustained us throughout the years of our religious life. When we first responded to His call, we could not have foreseen where that "yes" would lead us. Today, looking back, we recognize His loving presence in every joy, every challenge, every blessing, and every cross. We can only proclaim with grateful hearts: "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy."
As we celebrate this Jubilee, we renew our commitment to follow Christ with generous hearts. We entrust the years ahead to the Lord and to the loving care of the Blessed Virgin Mary, praying that we may continue to serve God's people with joy, humility, fidelity and with our prayers. Thank you for celebrating this special day with us. Your presence is a precious gift. We humbly ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers, as we assure you of ours. May God bless you abundantly, and may all glory and honor be given to Him, who has been faithful to us through all these years. Thank you, and God bless you all. Late Summer 2026 • Partners in Giving • 5
A PATIO BLESSING
ST. JOSEPH PROVINCIAL HOUSE, Haledon, NJ — On June 27th, the Sisters gathered for the blessing of the newly renovated patio. Fr. Lou Konopelski, SDB blessed the patio and those who will use it, followed by a time of refreshments and fellowship. A special thank you to Mr. John Capeci for his leadership in directing the renovation, and to two generous donors from Florida whose matching gifts made it possible to complete this project. We are grateful for this beautiful space where our Sisters can relax, enjoy the beauty of creation, and share time together!
Please “Give Us This Day”!
Our Exchange of Love
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o you have a happy occasion you would like to share? The Salesian Sisters will celebrate with you. Is it a time to mark a less-than-happy occasion? Our prayer for your special day will commemorate this event. Do you have someone to thank? All of the Sisters will help multiply your gratitude. When you “Give Us This Day” the Sisters will pray for your intention and for the person whose sacrificial gift supports the endowment for our retired Sisters. Let this gift be an expression of our concern and love for one another. Thank you, and God bless you!
A LIFE WELL-LIVED
Left to right: Sister Nivia Arias loved the Blessed Mother, Sister Nivia shows summer campers at Camp Auxilium a little toad friend, Sister Theresa Samson, Sister Margaret Wilhelm, Sister Catherine Altamura, and Sister Nivia.
A Heart for the Littlest and the Least: Sister Nivia Roberta Arias, FMA
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n the afternoon of July 24, 2026, the Lord Jesus unexpectedly called to Himself, Sister Nivia Roberta Arias, FMA. Born to Cuban immigrants, who had come to the United States in 1956, bringing Nivia's older brother Carlos with them as a small child, Nivia grew up in a household full of faith. Her parents sent her to Villa Madonna, a Catholic school run by the Salesian Sisters in Tampa, FL. The first stirrings of her vocation went further back than she could remember: she spoke of it at the age of three, then again at her first Communion, and later, in the fifth grade. In junior high, she pushed the thought of religious life away. After attending Tampa Catholic High School, she went on to the University of South Florida, working to pay her own tuition. It was the need for a summer job that brought Nivia back to the Sisters and back to the call Jesus had put on her heart. About a week into working at Camp Auxilium in Newton, NJ, she made the decision to stay rather than return for her second year of college. She made a deal with God: six months, she said, to find out if this was truly for her. As her father said, she would stay, “if God wills…” and God did will it! She went on to live over forty years as a Daughter of Mary Help of Christians.
Her ministry carried her across the Salesian family's schools and centers: Christ the King, St. Joseph's School and Villa Madonna School in Tampa; Immaculata High School in Marrero, LA; St. Anthony School and St. John's Cathedral School in Paterson, NJ; and finally Sacred Heart Spirituality Center in Newton, NJ, where she was serving at the time of her passing. Wherever she was sent, she taught children from Pre-K through eighth grade, animated liturgies with music, and led faith formation programs and retreats. She always had a particular love for catechizing the young. Sister Nivia had many creative gifts, and a heart for the least. Whoever stood before her received her full and immediate attention. Her creative gifts extended well beyond the classroom: she never stopped loving to dance, salsa and Latin rhythm most of all. She loved animals, and long before "Laudato Si'" gave the whole Church language for it, she was already seeing God in creation and finding ways to use and re-use the gifts which God provided. She frequently prayed for peace and reconciliation, especially in the hearts of each person. Sister Nivia is remembered by the wide circle of friends and young people who came to know, because of her, that they were loved by an unseen God. Rest in peace, Sister Nivia.
PERPETUAL PROFESSION OF VOWS
Top left, going clockwise: Sister Janna with her family and friends; waiting for Mass to begin; with all the clergy, including Bishop of Brooklyn, Robert J. Brennan and Bishop of Paterson, Kevin J. Sweeney; Sister Janna with her parents, brother, sister-inlaw, and nephew; Sister Janna lying prostrate during the litany of saints; Sister Janna stands up during "The Calling" portion of the Mass; Opposite page: Sisters, novices, and postulants with Sister Janna. All photos by Sarah Lightle.
PERPETUAL PROFESSION OF VOWS
My Life, Joined Forever to Christ! By Sister Janna San Juan, FMA
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n August 5th, in St. Joseph Chapel in North Haledon, NJ I had the joy of professing my perpetual vows. It was a climactic day: from the otherworldly beautiful prelude until the end of Mass, I felt like I was in a movie. Besides my birth and Baptism, this was the main event of my life. This was the culmination of my preparation alongside the Holy Spirit, who has been silently at work within me throughout my entire life. There are two moments that are impressed deeply into my mind: After professing my vows, I stated that "my life is joined forever to the sacrifice of Christ." This is not something I can say on my own. I needed the strength that comes from prayer. Right before this moment, I was flat on the ground, in all humility and dependence on the prayers of others as they sang the litany of Saints. It was after this powerful moment that I could profess my vows forever, sign my name and say
these words with faith-filled confidence and strength. The second moment was my expression of gratitude at the end, particularly to my parents. After thanking the clergy and Sisters, I faced my mom and dad. I addressed them, and then immediately struggled to get other words out. In that moment, I did not feel like a full-grown adult standing in front of them. Here is their little girl, whom they took to softball and soccer games and piano lessons. Here is the product of their pouring out of love, sacrifice and hardwork throughout life. Here is their daughter, giving her life to the God who created her. Everything they had done for me has amounted to this. In that moment, I felt very profoundly the gratitude I have for my parents. It was the best day, and I'm so happy that so many people could be a part of it. Thank you to all who have prayed for me; prayer is the best gift! Praised be Jesus Christ, now and forever!
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SALESIAN SUMMER
Top left, going clockwise: At the weekly camp Mass at Mary Help of Christians Camp; testing out the mid-ropes course at Camp Auxilium; Sister Natalie Doummar on a paddle board with campers and a counselor at Camp Auxilium.
SALESIAN SUMMER
Unplugged and Outdoors at Summer Camp
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or many children, summer is a season of freedom, sunshine, and adventure. At different camps around the province, children get to enjoy the break from school in an atmosphere of fun and faith. Rooted in the Salesian educational tradition, Camp Auxilium Summer Camp and Mary Help of Christians Camp are guided by St. John Bosco's vision of forming "good Christians and honest citizens." Every activity, every game, and every interaction is an opportunity to help children grow in confidence, kindness, responsibility, and joy. The result is much more than a fun summer. It is an experience that shapes hearts and lives. Perhaps the greatest gift these camps offer is the opportunity for children to simply be children. From the first
day of camp, children are invited to unplug from screens and reconnect with the world around them. They run across open fields, laugh with new friends, paddle across peaceful waters, test their courage on ropes courses, and celebrate their accomplishments together. Whether a camper is singing in the talent show, completing an obstacle course, catching a fish for the first time, floating in the swimming pool on a warm afternoon, or searching for the legendary "One Eyed Jack" in the camp pond, each day brings new opportunities to learn, explore, and grow. Behind every activity is the loving presence of the Salesian Sisters and dedicated staff who create an environment where every child is known, welcomed, and encouraged. Their commitment reflects St. John Bosco's belief that young people flourish when they know they are loved.
Top left, going clockwise: On the playground at Mary Help Camp; time for the yellow caps to get into the pool; at the end of the color run fundraiser at MHC Camp; Sister Molly Heine shows off a camper's arts and crafts project.
A Love That Lasts Forever
Memorials
Received between June 5, 2026 and August 4, 2026 Sr. Nivia Arias, FMA Mr. and Mrs. Fransiskus Sugiaman
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.
Joanna Bernaldo Mr. and Mrs. Rene Rodriguez Sr. Letizia Bocanegra Mr. Joseph P. Saline, Jr. Richard Corcia Mrs. Anna T. Corcia Emma Izquierdo Dr. and Mrs. Louis Gambetta Mr. and Mrs. David C. McAleer Janeann Kakalecz Mr. and Mrs. Joseph T. Ward John Kohls Ms. Rene’ Gosman Jack Lins Mrs. Sharon M. Zegalia
Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of:
Raymond Mink Ms. Kathleen Corbett
____ $25
Sr. Mary Rinaldi Mr. Joseph P. Saline, Jr.
____ $20
Memorial for Tribute for
____$15
$
Name – DECEASED
Salvatore Sabia Mrs. Rose Ann Sabia
Name – LIVING
Occasion Please send an acknowledgment to: Name
Tributes
Received between June 5, 2026 and August 4, 2026
Address
In honor of our friend who will profess first vows – Sister Megan Zeugner Ms. Marianne Cordell
My Name
Sarah Kohls and Michael Lanfear Wedding Ms. Rene’ Gosman
Address
Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope. Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
YOUR SUPPORT CHANGES YOUNG PEOPLES' LIVES The Salesian Sisters have always been committed to making Catholic education and summer camp experiences accessible to every family. We offer high quality, solidly Catholic programs at an affordable cost, never turning away a child because of financial hardship. Because of that commitment, we work each year to bridge the gap between tuition, income, and the true cost of serving every student and camper.
Donate for Summer Camp
Donate for MHC Academy
The difference between what tuition provides and what our programs truly cost is made possible through the generosity of those who believe in our mission - YOU! Every gift helps sustain a tradition of faith-filled and fun-filled education and camp experiences, ensuring that children can continue to discover their God-given gifts, deepen their faith, and know they are loved.
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FIRST PROFESSION OF VOWS
Top left, going clockwise: Sister Megan Zeugner with her parents; Sister Lisa Scarduzio gives words of gratitude after Mass, the musicians for the liturgy, Sister Gloria Hoang, Sister Theresa Kelly, and Sister Lisa; priests con-celebrating at Mass; Sister Gloria with her extended family. Opposite page: Sister Michelle Rotter kisses her crucifix; the four new sisters greet the congregation.
FIRST PROFESSION OF VOWS
All Because of Love... By Sister Lisa Scarduzio, FMA
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efore our Mass of First Profession on August 5, 2026, I was feeling many emotions. Joy, nervousness, excitement, etc. All of these emotions were mixing inside of me, and I felt a little unsteady. Before I knew it, the Mass was beginning, and it was time for my parents to walk me down the aisle. As soon as I stepped into our beautiful St. Joseph Chapel, my gaze went directly to the large crucifix behind the altar. I saw Jesus and I could not look anywhere else. In that moment, I was reminded of why I was saying “yes” to making the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience. It was all because of love. My companions and I were all called by a loving God who has given everything for each of us. He called us individually and gave us each a unique path that brought us to religious profession. In the presence of our family, friends, Sisters, clergy, and Salesian family, we each individually gave our “yes” to follow Jesus with our whole hearts. During the Mass, we received the crucifix to wear as a sign and witness to the extreme love of God. This reminded me of when St. Mary Mazzarello, our foundress, would point to her crucifix and tell theStudent Sisters,artwork “Jesus is here” then she would flip it over, point to the back, and say, “And I am here.” She was trying to teach the Sisters that their lives were to be given completely in radical love just as Jesus did by dying on the cross for humanity. My hope and prayer is that through my companions and my initial “yes” to the Lord we may be women who love the Church, the young, our Sisters, and all we meet with the radical love of Christ Jesus. May our gaze be always fixed on Him.
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ADOPT A SISTER Sister Megan Zeugner and Ana Ramos
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 you, 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, anniversary, First Holy Communion, graduation — or any occasion! Simply complete the form below, call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS, or visit www.salesiansisters.org. Thank you, and God bless you!
CVV: _____________
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VOCATION MINISTRY
Rafting, Zip Lining and Touching Young Hearts By Sister Boram Lee, FMA
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s part of the vocation ministry team this summer, Sister Jazmin Rangel and I had the joy of traveling to several discernment camps for hundreds of middle school and high school girls. From the Duc in Altum retreat in the Diocese of Charlotte, NC, to Life Teen Camp Covecrest in Tiger, GA, the Fidelis Sisterhood's Inspire Retreat in Knoxville, TN, and FIAT Camp in the Diocese of Arlington, VA, we witnessed firsthand the beauty and openness of so many young women seeking to grow closer to Christ. In their own style and emphasis, each camp aimed to help the young encounter the Lord and discover God’s call. These experiences also brought me outside my comfort zone in unexpected ways. For the first time, I went whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and zip lining—activities I never imagined I would be doing as a Salesian Sister. Each adventure became a reminder that saying “yes” to God's mission often means embracing the unknown with trust and joy. I found myself offering every challenge and every moment of laughter for the salvation of souls and an increase in holy vocations to our Province. These adventures also created meaning-
ful opportunities to build friendships with the young women and accompany them in an authentic way. Our vocation director, Sister Elfie Del Rosario, also found herself at many diocesan events and retreats, like the GIVEN Forum, which offers women intensive leadership training and networking support. Perhaps the greatest blessing of the summer was meeting young people from many different backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life, all united by a sincere desire to love God more deeply. I was grateful for the opportunity to share my own vocation story—how the Lord patiently led me to religious life—and to answer questions about the joys and challenges of being a consecrated religious. Just as meaningful was listening to their stories, hopes, struggles, and dreams. These conversations reminded me that God continues to call generous hearts today and that every encounter, no matter how brief, can become a seed of hope. I am deeply grateful to our benefactors, whose prayers and support make opportunities like these possible, allowing us to accompany young people as they discern God's loving plan for their lives.
Top left, going clockwise: Sister Elfie Del Rosario whitewater rafting at Life Teen camp; Sister Jazmin Rangel climbs a tree at Life Teen camp; Sister Jazmin on high ropes; Sister Boram Lee and Sister Jazmin speak on a vocation panel at the Inspire Retreat; Sister Boram with the liturgy team at FIAT camp.
VOCATIONS UPDATE SACRED HEART CENTER AND NOVITIATE, Newton, NJ — On August 2nd, St. Joseph Province welcomed six new novices into the Sacred Heart Novitiate in Newton, NJ: (photo on left, from front left, going counterclockwise) Sister Rachel Franklin, Sister Erin O'Neill, Sister Kathy Cabezas, Sister Michelle Pacheco, Sister Maria Jose Urdaneto, and Sister Amber Payne.
ST. JOSEPH PROVINCIAL HOUSE, Haledon, NJ — On August 4th, nine Salesian Sisters renewed their vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience for either one or two years. Picture below in the photo at the right are: (bottom row, left to right) Sister Jessica Castillo, Sister Pamela Rose Suresca, Sister Jazmin Rangel, Sister Amy Nguyen, Sister Kathleen Deighan (top right, left to right) Sister Kaitlin Trokan, Sister Natalie Doummar, Father Frank Lennie, celebrant, Sister Juliana Alfonso, Sister Nicole Daly.
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AROUND THE PROVINCE Sister Mary Ann Caspary and Sr. Mary Louise Mazzocco
Sister Virginia Dickey
Sister Mary Terzo and Sister Florine Lagace
Sister Mary Arciga
ST. JOSEPH PROVINCIAL HOUSE, Haledon, NJ — Sister Colleen Clair's sister, Kate, offered a painting workshop to the sisters in the Provincial House on August 15th. The sisters could choose from sixteen different designs as they learned how to use watercolor paints. Because it was the Feast Day of the Assumption, they had plenty of Marian options to choose from. The novices from Sacred Heart Novitiate in Newton, NJ also attended the event and enjoyed working with the sisters and catching up after an eventful summer. Thank you, Kate, for a fun and unique recreation!
GOSPEL ROADS NEW ORLEANS — Sister April Cabaccang joined six Salesian Schools from the Eastern United States for a week of service, reflection and community building at Gospel Roads New Orleans. The Service Week was held at Archbishop Shaw High School and the participants served in different organizations such as schools, day programs for the elderly, and shelters. In the evening, they spent time in prayer and learning how to apply Catholic Social Teaching in their daily lives.
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ON THE JOURNEY WITH SR. B
Is God Keeping a List and Checking it Twice?
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hen I was a child my grandmother told me, “Two angels sit on your shoulders, one on the left to record your bad deeds and one on your right to record your good deeds.” This kind of heavenly surveillance hardly brings comfort to a child trying to make sense of the world. I found it quite frightening. Years later I discovered that this teaching actually comes from Islam. It is mentioned in the Quran and the Hadith, but it is not a Christian belief, even though my grandmother sincerely believed it was.
The Return of the Prodigal Son, Pompeo Batoni
It made me wonder how many of us carry around an image of God that simply is not true. The truth is that God is neither Santa Claus nor a cosmic police officer writing spiritual tickets for our infractions. God is love. He is goodness, beauty, creativity, and truth. Everything that is genuinely good reflects something of His nature. How could the God who created sunsets, hummingbirds, the smell of fresh bread, and the giggle of toddlers spend His days looking for reasons to condemn us? That simply does not sound like the God Jesus came to reveal. It is surprisingly easy, however, to fall into that way of thinking. Even as Christians we can begin to imagine that God is keeping score, waiting for us to fail, or reluctantly tolerating us until we finally get our act together. If that is our image of God, then we will eventually find ourselves relating to Him out of fear instead of love. So what is sin? Sin is like an archer who misses the target. We aim for what is true, good, and life giving, but our arrow falls short of the mark. Think about that for a moment. Most people do not wake up in the morning hoping to become a worse person. Usually, we are trying to obtain something we believe is good. We want happiness, security, success, comfort, pleasure, or acceptance. The problem is not always what we are seeking. The problem is how we seek it. We aim for something good, but we miss the mark. Whether our failures are small or serious, they affect our relationship with God, with others, and with ourselves.
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“The truth is that God is neither Santa Claus nor a cosmic police officer writing spiritual tickets for our infractions. God is love. He is goodness, beauty, creativity, and truth.” Like tossing a stone into a pond, every choice sends ripples far beyond what we can see. Yet no sin is ever greater than God's love for the sinner. To believe otherwise would be to make our sins more powerful than God's mercy. That leads to another misunderstanding. Consequences and punishment are not the same thing. God allows the natural effects of our actions because He respects our freedom. If I abuse my body, poor health may follow. If I betray a friend's trust, the friendship suffers.
ON THE JOURNEY WITH SR. B These are consequences. God continually whispers to us through our conscience, through Scripture, and through the people He places in our lives, inviting us to choose differently. But He never forces us. Love never coerces.
Return of the Prodigal Son, Bartolomé Esteban Murillo
Jesus gives us the perfect image of God's heart in Luke 15, the Parable of the Prodigal Son. The younger son demands his inheritance early, essentially telling his father, "I wish you were dead." He abandons his family and leaves his older brother to carry all the responsibility. He wants freedom and excitement. Those are not bad desires in themselves, but he goes after them in a selfish way. He misses the mark. His father undoubtedly knows what is going to happen. He probably knows his son is making the biggest mistake of his life, yet he lets him go. Love always allows freedom. Eventually the young man loses everything. He finds himself feeding pigs, an especially humiliating situation for a Jewish man. He becomes so hungry that pig food starts looking appetizing. Jesus makes it very clear that these are not punishments from his father, but the consequences of the son's choices. Finally, broken and ashamed, he remembers home. He rehearses a speech the whole way back. He is convinced he no longer deserves to be called a son. Surely his father will reject him...or at least make him earn his way back. Instead, Jesus tells us something astonishing: "While he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion” (Luke 15:20). That verse has always fascinated me. How much time did the father spend looking down the road to be able to catch his son at the exact time of his return? I like to imagine the father starting each day hoping today would be the day his son returned. He had clothes and a ring ready for him just in case. The Father would wander out every afternoon, scanning the horizon, looking for the outline of his son, hoping to get news of him or to hear his voice from afar. Whether that happened or not, Jesus wants us to know one thing with absolute certainty: the father was looking for his son long before the son was looking for his father. Before the young man could even finish his apology, the father ran to him. In Jesus' day, dignified older men
“We spend so much of our lives wondering whether God is looking for our failures, when all along He has been looking for us.” simply did not run, but this father does. He embraces his filthy, hungry, embarrassed son before hearing a single explanation. He clothes him with the finest robe, places a ring on his finger, puts sandals on his feet, and orders a feast. That is the image of God Jesus gives us. Not a God who keeps score. Not a God with a celestial clipboard. Not a God searching for reasons to condemn. But a Father who never stops watching the horizon. A Father whose mercy outruns our shame. A Father who runs to meet us long before we think we deserve to come home. Perhaps that is the greatest surprise of the Gospel. We spend so much of our lives wondering whether God is looking for our failures, when all along He has been looking for us. That is the God Jesus came to reveal. Late Summer 2026 • Partners in Giving • 21
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he Salesian Sisters Partners Circle was founded by Joseph J. McAleer Sr. in 1991 to provide unrestricted funds for urgent needs in our mission. Your annual contribution to this fund empowers us to: Provide Financial Assistance to the Young People in our Care and to Support Education, Vocations, and Community Life.
There are eight levels of membership, starting at $250. 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? 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 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 “STEWARDS” - $11,000 FLORIDA Patricia Connors Sherry Millar MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Ted Reading PARTNERS CIRCLE “PARTNERS $5,500 CONNECTICUT Mary Bridget Gaine FLORIDA Ms. Caroline Barnhill Anthony & Geraldine Dell’Orto Mr. David Jacobson in memory of Joe Chillura, Jr. Fredy Padovan in memory of Maria-Restrepo-Forte Susan & Jeff Turner NEW JERSEY Chris & Gemma Chong Al Daloisio, Jr. Anthony & Arlene Laino Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer Joseph & Rita Weiner INDIANA Mr. & Mrs. Judson Church MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair PC NEW YORK Mr. Silvio Alfeo Mary Ellen Scala
VIRGINIA Mr. & Mrs. Greg Mueller
PARTNERS CIRCLE “BENEFACTORS” - $1,100
PARTNERS CIRCLE “FRIENDS” - $3,300
CALIFORNIA Mary & Robert Obenberger
FLORIDA Idalia Lastra Barket Anne & Fred Michaels Robert Nocek
CONNECTICUT Linda and Peter Christiansen Barbara & Fabrizio Zichichi
OHIO Mr and Mrs Philip Kraker NEW JERSEY Marilyn & Dale Livi Andrelisa Michel & Michael Russo PARTNERS CIRCLE “FOUNDERS” - $2,200 ARIZONA Mrs. AnnMarie Forster CALIFORNIA Gary and Pat Hoover CONNECTICUT Christina & David McAleer PC DELAWARE Maria Sturchio FLORIDA Anne & John Bedlek Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Clark Mrs. Patricia Driscoll Maria Restrepo Forte Mrs. Kathleen Medore Mrs. Marguerite Carr Ramsey MASSACHUSETTS Deirdre Kelleher NEW JERSEY Mr. & Mrs. Frank Facciolo Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann Rosemary, Frank, Jessica & Joseph Lupo Family Andrew Kavulich & Christine Papa The O’Halloran Family NEW YORK Jordon Carroll NORTH CAROLINA Mr. Sean Nassoiy PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. John R. Salvetti In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA SOUTH CAROLINA Tom & Laurie Aldinger
FLORIDA Mrs. Bernadine Ayer Mrs. Liana Baldor, in memory of Carlos & Ana Maria Baldor Mr. Daniel J. Bardauskis Joseph & Claudine Caballero PC Jo Ann and Joseph Caracappa Dr. & Mrs. Lazaro Hernandez Greg & Lori Korte Mr. & Mrs. Rob Obbink Ms. Marianne O’Doherty Gene & Linda Perez John & Diann✝ Pinkowski Teresa & Ravi Sharma MASSACHUSETTS Chandler Rohde NEW JERSEY Mark and Ann Marie Abene Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Amatuzzi Mrs. Rose Bielicki Mrs. Theresa Cannarozzi Mr John Capeci James and Carol Cavaluzzi Mr. Shane & Mrs. Valbona Clair Ms. Debi F. Debiak, Esq., Class of '88 Maureen and Clem Farley Mr. & Mrs. Martin Flemming Mr. and Mrs. Gary Frankin Miss Mary Jean Hayek James Construction Company, Inc. Mrs. Edith Josephson Michael & Mary Losurdo Mr. Joseph Massood Mr. and Mrs. Steven Mazzola Mrs. Faith Menard Mary Ann Munson Robert & Constance Sumas Maura and Michael Testa Cecilia and Augustin Yoon NEW YORK Anonymous Paul and Danielle Cangro Paul & Stephanie Gerardi Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec Joey Vallie
NORTH CAROLINA Mrs. Eileen Seeburger
IDAHO Dr. Ralph W. Higer
PARTNERS CIRCLE “QUARTER CENTURY CLUB” - $250
PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Brian Clair Ms. Kate Clair Msgr. Robert Carroll Dr. Allyson & Mr. Kevin Hardy
ILLINOIS The Rangel Family
ARIZONA Ms. Christina Smith
MARYLAND Mrs. Josephine Savage
CALIFORNIA Ms. Jackie Edelman Rev. Paula T. Webb, Ph.D.
TENNESSEE Patty & Dan Clair VIRGINIA Brian Walsh WISCONSIN Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Clair PARTNERS CIRCLE “ASSOCIATES” - $825 CALIFORNIA Darlene & William Loose CONNECTICUT Michael S. Guarnieri PC FLORIDA Rene & Phyllis Rodriguez Ron Yates MARYLAND The Albert Marra Family NEW JERSEY Joseph W. & Kathleen Buckley OHIO Dale & Lynda Kovach PENNSYLVANIA Mrs. Mary Ann Piotrowski RHODE ISLAND Mr. Mackenzie Clair PARTNERS CIRCLE “MEMBERS” - $550 CALIFORNIA Patrick and Kasia Gorman CONNECTICUT Anonymous Mr. Edward F. Goin Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey DELAWARE Dr. Pat & Mrs. Dianne Confalone FLORIDA Mrs. Trudy Carey Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria Jim and Sue Flanagan Manny & Aggie Fernandez Leslie J. Izquierdo Garcia Giacomo Guggino Mr. and Mrs. Carl E. Kraus Louis and Elena Menendez Laguardia Mr. James D. Leone Mr. and Mrs. Joe and Kelly Nunez PC Joan Palmer Hon. & Mrs. E.J. Salcines GEORGIA Charles Fantauzza
MASSACHUSETTS Dustin and Amanda Bonner Mr. Xavier Clair MISSOURI Jim and Cathy Weis NEW JERSEY Tiziana Anello, MD Adam Psichos & Clelia Biamonti Gerard & Phyllis Brew Mrs. Regina Calcagno Christus Vincit, Christus Regnat, Christus Imperiat Larry & Mary Anne Condit Mr. & Mrs. Andrew J. Dunn Mr. & Mrs. Michael Ferrito Joann Giamonco Dr. Louis Gambetta Mrs. Vivian Isenberg Mrs. Kui Soon Kang Riley Obetz & Corrinne Rieser Mrs. Christine Peragallo Edward M. Zambrano NEW YORK Michael & Jeanette Altamura Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Clair Ms. Lena Huang Mr. Walter Lazarcheck NORTH CAROLINA The Hasher Family OHIO Anonymous In memory of Mr. Fred Mastrogiovanni PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Glen Berdela Joseph & Joyce Boyle Patricia and William Hayes Mr. Stephen A. McBride, Esq. Mr. Brennan Obetz SOUTH CAROLINA Gene and Nacy Ceccarelli Rich and Melanie Demmler TENNESSEE Pat & Terence Clair Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds TEXAS Mr. & Mrs. John F. Kruzel VIRGINIA Mr. & Mrs. William L. Carpenter Mrs. Dominique Faust Dr. & Mrs. Andrew Whitmore WISCONSIN Mr. and Mrs. Conor Clair
CONNECTICUT Anonymous Mr. Michael Bavasso & Diane Nobert Mrs. Eileen G. Hahnenkratt Dr. Joe McAleer FLORIDA Bernadette & Fred Cairoli Mr. & Mrs. James M. Desmond Ms. Annabella Montoya Arthur & Maria Fierman Mr. & Mrs. Richard Lebron Mrs. Victoria Lee Skrimshire Jim & Rita (Zoppo) Vietmeyer MASSACHUSETTS Mr. Seamus Clair Ms. Sandra M. Nadeau NEW JERSEY Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Choma Mr. & Mrs. Raymond P. Corbett Donald and Marguerite Cronrath, Jr. Ms. Denise Dorgan & Mr. Michael Hynes Ms. Patrice Enyart Mr. & Mrs. Paul Galimi Gary Gigliotti Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Konzelmann Msgr. Raymond Kupke Mr. and Mrs. Wayne H. Lehr Rae Rinaldi Gene & Lorraine Signoretti Denise & Ken Trynosky Ms. Joanne Williams Mr. & Mrs. Steven Wojtowicz NEW YORK Charles V. & Denise J. Curcio The Halling Family Mr. Angelo Forta Maria DaGrossa-Hanna PC Mrs. Carolyn Mesler Mary & Joseph Miressi Teresita Perez Hon. Madeleine & Rene Perrin PC OHIO Whitney McAfee PENNSYLVANIA Ms. Robin Bernstein Mr. & Mrs. Liam Irving SOUTH CAROLINA Ed & Luciann Slomkowski TENNESSEE Robert and Kathleen Greenwell VIRGINIA Mr. & Mrs. Michael Deighan
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Province of St. Joseph of the Eastern U.S. & Canada
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage P A I D Hanover, NH Permit No. 8
Sister Eileen Tickner and Sister Analfreda Miranda, visiting from Rome, at the Florida Aquarium.
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