LATE WINTER 2025
A PUBLICATION OF THE SALESIAN SISTERS OF ST. JOHN BOSCO
Dear Friends, 2025 is already off to an incredible start! I have been on the road with our new Associate Director, Sr. Katie Flanagan, to meet you, our Partners in Giving, face-to face. I am so grateful for the warm welcome you have offered both of us. In this issue, you can get a taste of the Sisters’ festive celebrations during the Christmas season, learn about the impact of the SEEK Conference, and see how we celebrated Catholic Schools Week and the Feast of St. John Bosco. Although it's hard to believe, Ash Wednesday is already on our doorstep. As we enter into this season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, know that we are grateful for the sacrifices you make in order to support our elderly Sisters and our mission among the young. Thank you for standing with us, for your friendship, and for your prayers. We are blessed to walk this journey together. Feel each one of us near in daily prayer. Gratefully,
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 © 2025 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc.
Save the Date! PARTNERS CIRCLE TRUSTEES ANNUAL MEETING Saturday, March 29, 2025 North Haledon, NJ ROSARY FOR VOCATIONS Sunday, March 30, 2025 email: happynun@gmail.com for the link to participate SPRING CHALLENGE Thursday, April 10, 2025 COME & SEE WEEKEND April 4-6, 2025 (Toronto, CA) April 10-13, 2025 (NJ) email: happynun@gmail.com for information to attend MORNESE PILGRIMMAGE July 19 - August 4, 2025 email: happynun@gmail.com for details and to sign up
Editorial Board Sr. Christina Chong, FMA, Editor Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of Development Sr. Katie Flanagan, FMA, Associate 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: Sr. April Cabaccang on a sailboat with young people on retreat from the diocese of Victoria in Canada.
A MESSAGE FROM SISTER COLLEEN
Hope Does Not Disappoint
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ow that we have discussed the theological and cardinal virtues, I want to draw your attention to our Jubilee Year of 2025 “Pilgrims of Hope”. The theme is: SPES NON CONFUNDIT − Hope does not disappoint. (Yes, this is me, Sr. Colleen, using the Latin Sr. Denise taught me at MHC Academy − using it despite my assertion that Latin is a dead language I would never need…!)
“Absolving a debt offers freedom from the burden it carries, but release from an emotional debt or a resentment is far more liberating!” Before discussing the Jubilee, listen to Sr. Nivia’s enthusiasm for this year’s Jubilee; it is contagious. In her words, “During a Jubilee year, past debts are forgiven. Absolving a debt offers freedom from the burden it carries, but release from an emotional debt or a resentment is far more liberating!” Sr. Nivia’s words are inspired and accurate. Debt is a burden, and freedom from it is a relief. Feeling that relief allows us to free others from emotional debts we feel they owe us − because forgiving a grudge liberates both the transgressor AND his target. Every Jubilee is a year of forgiveness of sins and even their punishments; it is a year of conciliation, of conversion, and receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Above all, a Jubilee year is a year of Christ. A regular Jubilee occurs only every 25 years − it is a year of special events. At best, most of us will live through perhaps four Jubilee years. The most recent regular Jubilee was in the year 2000, called the Great Sr. Marie Fe Tansioco prays with students from Holy Cross Regional High School in Surrey, BC.
Jubilee because it ushered in both the new century and the new millennium. During a Jubilee year, we can receive a plenary indulgence. What is that? It’s the forgiveness of sins and any punishment due for those sins. This used to involve meeting a series of stringent conditions. This year, the conditions have been made less rigorous − we can ALL fulfill them. The simplified requirements include one of the following: • Make a pilgrimage to Rome, the Holy Land, or your local cathedral OR • Perform works of mercy, OR • Fast from social media, defend life, or volunteer PLUS, we must be detached from our sins, make a sacramental Confession, receive Communion, and pray for the Holy Father. When we meet these conditions, we receive a plenary indulgence, which removes punishment for our past sins; miraculously, it restores our souls to the way they were immediately after Baptism. To learn more, I urge you to download the app Iubilaeum 2025. It contains a wealth of information. In closing, let’s pray the Jubilee prayer authored by Pope Francis: Father in heaven, may the faith You have given us in Your Son, Jesus Christ, our brother, and the flame of charity enkindled in our hearts by the Holy Spirit, reawaken in us the blessed hope for the coming of your Kingdom. May your grace transform us into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel. May those seeds transform from within both humanity and the whole cosmos in the sure expectation of a new heaven and a new earth, when, with the powers of evil vanquished, Your glory will shine eternally. May the grace of the Jubilee reawaken in us, Pilgrims of Hope, a yearning for the treasures of heaven. May that same grace spread the joy and peace of our Redeemer throughout the earth. To You our God, eternally blessed, be glory and praise forever. Amen. — Sr. Colleen Clair, FMA, is the Superior of St. Joseph Province
APOSTOLIC SPOTLIGHT
SEEKing God with and among College Students from East to West Coast SEEK is a national yearly conference for Catholic university students hosted by FOCUS, the Fellowship of Catholic University Students. From one small yearly conference over 20 years ago, it has grown to two locations with thousands of attendees. During this past winter break, college students gathered to hear inspirational Catholic speakers, enjoy faith-based concerts, gather for uplifting Masses and Eucharistic Adoration as well as enjoy opportunities to meet different religious congregations and Catholic vendors. The Salesian Sisters were present, in force, at both the Salt Lake City, Utah location and Washington, DC. Sr. Boram Lee and Aspirant Kathy Cabezas give their reflections on what it was like to share with the young people and youth ministers the beauty of the Salesian charism.
From Salt Lake City, Utah
By Sr. Boram Lee, FMA
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y experience of attending the SEEK Conference this year in Salt Lake City, Utah, among ten of my fellow Salesian Sisters, was one of profound hope, fraternity, and a coming back to my first love. As Salesians, who labor in the fields of education and formation of the young and the poor, we come alive in the fullest sense when we are with them. Being among 17,000 college students, clergy, consecrated religious, and families, all SEEKing God, hungering for His love and grace, and worshiping Him together in the beautiful liturgies that transcended time and space was a powerful experience of what it means to belong to Jesus Christ in the Catholic Church. Every keynote speaker made it evident that happiness cannot be found apart from God as we navigate our secular culture that drives us to destruction and despair. Arthur Brooks, in his keynote session, The Science of Happiness, noted that our culture trains us to “use
people, love things, and worship yourself,” while our faith informs us to “use things, love people, and worship God.” Sr. Josephine Garrett reiterated the countercultural values of our Catholic faith in her keynote Re-Creation in Christ when she said, “Let discipleship wreck your life” and “when it costs, when it burns, do not be afraid. Because the way has been paved for you…[by] Christ’s cross, and that cross above all was a proposal to you to be joined to you in a union so deep that you will become like Him.” In addition to the enriching talks, and solemn liturgies, the Holy Spirit was alive and kicking in our one-on-one encounters. Several college students we had met and befriended last year at SEEK24 in St. Louis, Missouri, visited us at our Salesian Family booth to reconnect. Some of us ran into our former spiritual directors and pastors, and had the joy of receiving confession and spiritual direction from them on the night of Eucharistic Adoration.
From l-r: Sr. Boram Lee and Sr. Kaitlin Trokan; inside the main auditorium; Sr. Myriam Meus and a friend of the Sisters.
APOSTOLIC SPOTLIGHT
The Salesian Sisters gather with other members of the Salesian Family and a group of young people as they enjoy the different activities at the SEEK Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah.
A few of us even ran into our past pupils who we knew as children, now young adults, evangelizing their communities and family members as missionary disciples. One of these was a former camper from our virtual summer camp in the long-gone days of COVID19, Maria Santamaria. She was a middle schooler from Florida at the time we hosted an online virtual oratory from Haledon, New Jersey, and was in my small group.
“As Salesians, who labor in the fields of education and formation of the young and the poor, we come alive in the fullest sense when we are with them." I gasped when she started singing our theme song from that year, “Find the oratory, find the oratory, find the oratory,” with accompanying dance moves. She even recalled the E.B.A. (Easter Bunny Agent), a ridiculous fictional character we made up to entertain our campers during Holiday Week, and every little detail that I had long forgotten from that camp season. I couldn’t believe it. How marvelous that God can always find a way to reach the young under any condition!
On the third day of the conference, I heard someone call my name. “Sr. Boram!” When I turned around, it was Brother Adam Neri, a Brother of Hope, who was the campus minister at the Catholic Center at Rutgers University in New Jersey when I was a college student there, 17 years ago. “I had been praying for you since I heard you entered religious life and would occasionally look you up on the Salesian Sisters’ website, hoping that your picture would still be there,” he said. I cried. In yet another encounter, a local Salt Lake City resident and mom of two teenage daughters shared with me with tear-filled eyes what a great witness the conference was to her, a devout Catholic, and her family who is Mormon. “I’ve never seen so many young religious and priests gathered in our city!” she said. “This is an answer to my prayers!” We talked for a long time, and I assured her of my prayers. Even though this was only my second SEEK Conference, it felt like a family reunion and a weeklong wedding party where we all ate and were satisfied. And as I prepare my heart to give myself totally to Jesus in perpetual religious vows this August, I realize He has filled me with great consolation and courage in Utah. “Be generous. Do not be afraid. Pick up your cross and say, yes, over and over again.” Late Winter 2025 • Partners in Giving • 5
APOSTOLIC SPOTLIGHT
From Washington, D.C.
By Kathy Cabezas It was such a gift to go to SEEK in DC! FOCUS means a lot to me since I’ve been involved with FOCUS at my alma mater Georgia Tech and since I have friends who are past and current FOCUS missionaries. Previously, I’d been to two FOCUS conferences, in 2018 and 2019. At first, I was unsure if SEEK 2025 in DC would be just as good since this was the first year SEEK was being split into two locations. But once I was actually there, all my concerns were gone. I felt the conference was just as fruitful as past ones and the smaller size actually helped with building up relationships with the people we met since we would see them around more often.
Franciscan named Brother Pablo even played the cajon! You could feel the joy and family spirit radiating from our booth in those moments. The Holy Spirit was definitely present.
I was also very grateful to serve alongside our brothers, the Salesians of Don Bosco, and the men in formation with them. Having them there alongside us aspirants and the Sisters made the family complete. Together, we hosted Evening Prayer every day at our booth and around 15-20 people would join us. During the intercessions, it was beautiful to hear the college students open their hearts to the Lord and ask for prayers for their friends, families, and campuses.
Some were in their senior year, trying to figure out jobs or missionary programs they should consider after college. Some were considering religious life and felt a great desire to talk with vocation directors and go on Come-andSees. And some were being called to deeper healing and intimacy with our Lord in prayer. Yet, all of them had one thing in common: they were searching for God’s will.
We also had impromptu praise and worship sessions and lots of people joined us for that too. A Capuchin
I also felt very nostalgic coming back to SEEK as an aspirant since the last time I was at SEEK, I was fresh out of college and just starting to think about religious life. It was so special to talk with all the college students in a similar place as past-me, discerning their next steps in life. They all had such beautiful stories, and I was very moved by how open they were with us.
Praise God for all these college students who desire to love God and to know His will for them. May He continue to provide them clarity on their next steps and the courage to actually take them.
From top left, clockwise: Sr. Pamela Rose Suresca introducing the youngest visitor to Sr. Marianette; the Salesian Family group of Sisters, aspirants, brothers and candidates in formation; Showing off Sr. Marianette to visitors stopping by the Salesian booth.
6 • Partners in Giving • Late Winter 2025
A LIFE WELL LIVED
Sr. Elizabeth Russo, FMA Enters Her Eternal Reward
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r. Elizabeth was born in Palermo, Italy, into a devout Catholic family. Together, they immigrated to the United States, settling in Frankfurt, New York. Encouraged and recommended by her parish priest, Elizabeth joined the Salesian Sisters in North Haledon, NJ, in 1957 and made her first profession of vows in 1960. Her mission took her across the United States, from coast to coast and north to south. With her hardworking and industrious spirit, she was an invaluable presence wherever she was sent. A skilled seamstress, her talents were greatly appreciated — not only in the novitiate, where she helped make vestments to support the community, but also in various houses where she repaired habits and sewed aprons with care. Sr. Elizabeth served the elderly Sisters with dedication and discretion, ensuring they received the best possible care. The rosary was never far from her hands, and her devotion to Mary shone through in her tireless service to her fellow Sisters.
Sr. Elizabeth Russo was 92 years old and professed as a Salesian Sister for 64 years.
In her later years, Sr. Elizabeth grew more comfortable sharing her great love of music. She could often be heard singing to herself or leading rounds of joyful melodies in the community dining room. Spontaneous bursts of song became a hallmark of her presence, always accompanied by her signature giggle, which lit up her face with happiness. Sr. Elizabeth passed into her eternal reward on the morning of February 8, 2025, as humbly and quietly as she had lived. Yet, it is easy to imagine her entering heaven’s gates singing her favorite song, You Are My Sunshine.
Becoming Neighbors Bernadette Aman and Sr. Jeannine Landry regularly meet with newly arrived refugee families from Ecuador and Mexico. Referred by parish priest Fr. Sean McEwen, SDB, Sr. Jeannine assists these families through Becoming Neighbors, a religious organization supporting immigrants and refugees. The parishioners of St. Benedict, in Etobicoke, Toronto, Canada, where Fr. Sean is pastor, generously show solidarity by donating food, clothing, and financial assistance. Sr. Jeannine and Bernadette distribute these resources based on each family's needs. To support older students, Sr. Jeannine mentors them by teaching English, helping with assignments, and preparing them for exams. She also connects with parents and school staff to ensure a smooth transition. Bernadette, a native Spanish speaker, provides translation for both parents and teachers, ensuring high school students receive the support they need to succeed. The families deeply appreciate this help, which gives them hope for the future. In this Holy Year of Jubilee, this effort is a tangible expression of bringing hope to those in need!
Late Winter 2025 • Partners in Giving • 7
PROVINCIAL HOUSE UPDATE
Bringing the Party to Our Elderly Sisters During the Christmas season, families and friends often come together to celebrate with festive dinners and laughter. Yet, for our dear elderly Sisters at the Provincial House, venturing out to holiday parties can be difficult. That's where the kindness of friends like John Capeci truly shines. John had the wonderful idea of bringing a party to the Sisters, ensuring they could enjoy a festive meal without having to leave the comfort of their home. With the support of The Market Basket, John catered a delicious feast that turned an ordinary day into a truly special occasion. The Sisters gathered together to enjoy the meal, and the room was filled with warmth and love. It's friends like John who make the holidays, birthdays, and even regular weekends feel extraordinary for the Sisters. We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Ken Larrywon, who opened 2025 with a catered dinner that was yet another delightful treat. We are truly grateful for the generosity that surrounds us and the thoughtful friends who make a difference. The joy of these little celebrations goes far beyond the food — they remind us that community and friendship are at the heart of every holiday season. A big thank you to all who continue to share their love and support with the home-bound Sisters. It's gestures like these that make their days so much brighter.
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 of time be an expression of our concern and love for one another. Thank you, and God bless you!
8 • Partners in Giving • Late Winter 2025
PROVINCIAL HOUSE UPDATE
A Poignant Provincial House Pageant The Provincial House, the convent where the retired and elderly sisters live, put on a special Pageant that celebrated Christmas around the world. With songs and bright costumes, the Sister showcased the different traditions surrounding Jesus’ birth in countries as diverse as Egypt, Mexico, Ireland, and Germany. There were even large animals crafted by hand that were paraded around the audience members. It was a time to enjoy the various cultures embodied by the Sisters in the Provincial House after weeks of preparation and practice.
A Love That Lasts Forever
Memorials
Received between November 25, 2024 and February 13, 2025
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.
Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of: ____ $20
Memorial for Tribute for
____$15
Ana Marchena Marinez Mrs. Dalila Sanger
Lillian Brunetti Talia Mason
Mary Gaia Ms. Jennifer Barrett
James Berezny Mrs. Linda Berezny
Sr. Rosalie Di Peri Ms. Karla Villarin
Anna Daloisio Ms. Paula Daloisio
Laura Olsen Mr. Roger S. Olsen
Dorothy Tomaszewski Mr. Allen Tomaszewski
Santo DeLuna Ms. Carol Kasper
Albert Gilligan Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DeVita
Robert J. Schaublin Mrs. Elaine Schaublin-Allen
Vincent Stumolo Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DeVita
Liz Schwartz Guaglianone Mrs. Joan Ackaway
Hubert Joseph Thompson Mrs. Mary Thompson
Ann Urbanowicz Mrs. Joan Ackaway
Walter William Rohn Mr. Domenic Bufalini
Peter Slootmaker Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DeVita
James DeLuna Ms. Carol Kasper
Give the gift that lasts forever.
____ $25
Vilma Barrientos Talia Mason
John Edward Fagan, Jr. Ms. Eileen Archer
$
Name – DECEASED Name – LIVING
Occasion Please send an acknowledgement to: Name Address My Name Address
Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope. Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
Tributes
Received between November 25, 2024 and February 13, 2025 Alumnae of Distinction: Josephine Infante and Frieda Tahan Mr. and Mrs. Andre Cote Lara Ochoa Regan Mrs. Minerva Ochoa Sr. Nivia Arias Ms. Patricia M. Yanez Sr. Domenica Di Peri Ms. Karla Villarin Sr. Esther Cruz Mr. and Mrs. Bob O’Halloran, Jr. Mr. Kevin R. Manning
CATECHETICAL CORNER
“When we turn to him with sorrow for our sins, he always forgives us."
Go In Peace as Pilgrims of Hope! By Sr. Theresa Kelly, FMA
I
n January, we began the Jubilee Year 2025, with its theme: “Pilgrims of Hope.” One of the components of every Jubilee Year is forgiveness, reconciliation with God and with one another. We are approaching the season of Lent which is a special time of walking the journey of conversion; that is, of turning away from whatever is not in keeping with the grace of our Baptism and turning toward a more faithful living of our Christian life. The gift of our Baptism brought us into the life of the Trinity. We are called to a journey of holiness; a journey of becoming ever more faithful followers of Jesus in the way we live our lives. Lent is a forty-day preparation for commemorating what Jesus did for us, and for renewing our Baptismal promises at Easter. In renewing our Baptismal promises, we reject sin, evil, and all that is contrary to our relationship with God. We profess our faith in our Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and express our commitment to live faithfully what it means to belong to God. However, we all experience our human weaknesses, and there are times when we do not live as God wants us to.
Jesus taught us that God is always loving and forgiving. When we turn to him with sorrow for our sins, he always forgives us. But our sins also affect others. While we desire to be reconciled with God, we also need to be reconciled to the community and to any individuals that have been hurt by our sins. Jesus left us the beautiful gift of the Sacrament of Penance/Reconciliation. Vatican Council II added the term Reconciliation to better express the relational aspect of this Sacrament. To be reconciled is to restore a friendship or relationship – “to bring together again.” In this Sacrament, we confess our sins to the priest, who represents the community and forgives us in the name of God. Just as the priest acts in the “person of Christ” to change the bread and wine into Jesus’ Body and Blood during the Eucharistic Celebration, so he acts in the name of God to forgive us when we receive absolution during sacramental confession. The words of Absolution are very beautiful and meaningful. The priest extends his hands over the person and pronounces God’s forgiveness: Late Winter 2025 • Partners in Giving • 11
CATECHETICAL CORNER “God, the Father of mercies, through the death and resurrection of his son, has reconciled the world to himself and sent the Holy Spirit among us for the forgiveness of sins; through the ministry of the Church, may God give you pardon and peace, and I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” The Sacrament of Reconciliation is necessary for serious or “mortal” sins. It is strongly recommended for less serious or “venial” sins. Frequent reception of this Sacrament is a great source of strength as we travel the road of daily conversion to living the Gospel ever more faithfully. It also helps us to be more compassionate and forgiving toward others. “Regular confession of our venial sins helps us to form our conscience, fight against evil tendencies, let ourselves be healed by Christ, and progress in the life of the Spirit.” (CCC #1458)
At the end of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and at the end of the Eucharistic Celebration, we hear the beautiful words: “Go in Peace!” We are sent forth from both Sacraments to live in an attitude of charity and service, united with God and with one another. May this Jubilee Year be for all of us a renewed experience of the peace that Jesus came to bring. May we all deepen our appreciation for the Sacrament of Reconciliation as an essential element of our lifelong Baptismal journey of “putting on the mind of Christ” as St. Paul reminds us: “All of you who have been baptized in Christ Jesus have clothed yourselves with him.” (Gal 3:27) We entrust ourselves to Mary, our Mother, the Help of Christians, who is our model of discipleship and accompanies us on our faith journey!
FMA of Hope: A Joyful Gathering for Renewal
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rom December 27 to 30, 22 Sisters, professed from six to 14 years, from the North American Continent (NAC), participated in a formation gathering at Sacred Heart Novitiate in Newton, NJ. NAC geographically includes all of the United States and Canada in two provinces. The theme of the gathering, “FMA of Hope,” centered on presentations about following Christ, deepening community life and prayer, dreaming within our mission, and being “Rooted in the Covenant.” The Sisters had opportunities for sharing in small and large groups, moments of Adoration and communal prayer, and recreation. A highlight of the event was the opportunity to attend the opening Mass of the Jubilee Year at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, NJ. They also visited the elderly Sisters at the Provincial House, creating moments of connection and mutual joy. This gathering was particularly meaningful as it allowed the Sisters to reunite with their Novice Directress, Sr. Joanne Holloman, who had accompanied all 22 Sisters during their formation. Sr. Theresa Khong remarked, “This gathering was a beautiful opportunity to reconnect with our Sisters, refresh our vocational commitment, and spend time strengthening our intimacy with Christ.”
12 • Partners in Giving • Late Winter 2025
ALUMNA SPOTLIGHT
The Inherent Dignity of Every Person Donna (Camarro) Murray is a 1978 graduate of Mary Help of Christians Academy. After graduation she relocated to Florida and received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of South Florida. She was certified by the Department of Children and Families as a child protective investigator and eventually transitioned to the Public Defender’s office where she advanced to Chief Investigator, worked in the capital homicide unit and conducted death penalty mitigation investigations. She earned her master’s degree in criminal justice administration from USF, is a licensed private investigator and in 2017 established her own investigative agency specializing in death penalty mitigation for clients facing the death penalty and juvenile resentencing. Many people have asked how I could represent murderers and try to save them from a death sentence. The death penalty is said to protect society, punish the offender, and provide justice for the victim’s family. I have often heard “fry ‘em,” especially when it comes to crimes against children. I think back on my years at MHCA and the deep sense of compassion and empathy instilled in me by the Salesian Sisters where every student was respected and had value. Life in prison is certainly a punishment that protects society however a death sentence does not provide justice to the victim’s family. State-sanctioned murder is still the killing of another human being. Pope Francis has said that the death penalty attacks the inherent dignity of all humans. He has also said that executions feed a feeling of revenge that becomes a dangerous poison for society. The death penalty is inhumane and demeans human dignity.
When I sit in a tiny interview room with a client in a county jail waiting for his trial or someone on Florida’s death row who has already been convicted and sentenced to death, it is essential to set aside the horrible facts of the crime and focus on the person sitting across from me, on their humanity. I learn about their life; we laugh, cry, and sometimes pray. My experiences at MHCA set a strong foundation to respect life and find the good in people, even if they do not see it themselves. Most of my clients suffer from mental illness, traumatic brain injury, childhood trauma, physical or sexual abuse, or abandonment. Often it is a combination of factors and experiences that span familial generations and lead to a disturbed trajectory in life. Without a positive role model and proper guidance, it is not surprising that my clients lose their way and make such poor choices. Often, they have not had any spiritual upbringing. As a mitigation specialist, seeking family history from records and collateral interviews can be a daunting task. The goal is to help explain the behavior; it is never an excuse for murder. My educational experience at MHCA led me to this career and taught me that every life is precious and deserving of mercy.
From the Mailbag: God Is On My Side! Dear Sr. Mary, I want to thank you so so much for your support for me during the tough time I had for 2 1/2 years, which wore me down to the max. You told me not to worry that God was on my side and to pray to the blessed Mother (who I say a Rosary to everyday) and you had the Sisters pray for me also. Well guess what? I guess Jesus is a much better lawyer than they had. My insurance covered it all!! When good fortune comes to me, I always share it with my close friends. And I consider you one of them at the top of the list. Please use this gift "as usual" for the retirement fund. To me, you are truly an angel God sent to me in a time in my life that was so stressful at this stage of my life, which your help brought me to tears. God Bless you! - Joey, Bronx, NY
ADOPT A SISTER
Please Adopt a Sister
P
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: _____________
14 • Partners in Giving • Late Winter 2025
AROUND THE PROVINCE
Viva Don Bosco in British Columbia, Canada! On January 31, 2025, the Solemnity of St. John Bosco was celebrated for the first time at Our Lady of Sorrows in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The celebration was conducted in three languages — English, Spanish, and Italian — to bring together this diverse community. A choir composed of members from a variety of parishes in the surrounding area practiced with the Sisters to sing during the celebration. Salesian Cooperators, past pupils of the FMA and SDB, and lay collaborators of FMA and SDB were also all present! Friends from the community generously offered to cook, decorate, and donate food for this special event. Children from the school and the religious education program were present, and medals of St. John Bosco were distributed. Everyone was invited to the reception that followed the solemn Mass. Fr. Rosemond Sylvestre, C.S., Pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows, expressed his admiration for the unifying power of the Salesian Sisters. In just five months of being in Vancouver, they were able to bring together over 150 people to celebrate with them. Sr. Marisol Guzman, dressed as Mary, Help of Christians, and Sr. Natalie Doummar, dressed as the Co-Foundress of the Salesian Sisters, Mother Mazzarello, emceed the program, while Sr. Marie Fe Tansioco directed a skit depicting Don Bosco's dream at nine-years-old for everyone to learn. The children who participated in the skit received t-shirts featuring Don Bosco's dream as a memento. To conclude the wonderful evening, a cake was cut while all enthusiastically chanted "Viva Don Bosco!"
From top right, clockwise: The Sisters celebrate the Feast Day of St. John Bosco with the larger Salesian family; Sr. Marisol Guzman thanks the guests for coming, dressed as the Blessed Mother; Sr. Natalie Doummar and Sr. Marisol Guzman are in character as St. Mary Mazzarello and the Blessed Mother; Sr. Marie Fe Tansioco assists the children in their skit of Don Bosco's dream.
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AROUND THE PROVINCE
Confirming the "Yes" The Novices and Sr. Nivia Arias, FMA, from Sacred Heart Center spoke to the confirmation candidates and their parents at Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel Church in Cedar Knolls, NJ, following the 6pm Mass on Sunday, January 12. They began their presentation with a game in which the participants had to identify inspirational quotes originating from a saint or Taylor Swift! Then, the Sisters shared about vocations and their own personal calls to religious life. Each Sister experienced different struggles and life challenges before eventually giving her “yes” to God. Reflecting on the event, Novice, Sr. Krystle Balancio shared, “It’s so important to share with the young about vocations because of the importance of reminding them that God loves them so much! Sharing our vocation stories invites the young to know how God works in unique ways to reach us in our individual circumstances, with all our hopes, dreams, passions, gifts, and abilities as well as our shortcomings and failings. God draws us to Himself through the various puzzle pieces of important people, significant events, and intentional happenings that specifically touch us and make us know the good plan He has for us all. I enjoy sharing my vocation story because I can't help but smile and be grateful for God's love for me and the journey I'm living today to respond in love to Him in return!” Laura Balogh, Faith Formation Director said, “The Sisters who visited were incredibly inspiring and we’re grateful to them for their visit.”
Surprise Me! By Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA At the end of 2024 it became clear that with so many young women entering our Sisters' formation program, we needed to build a vocations fund to keep up with their needs and studies. My appeal "Surprise Me" was exactly that. Our goal was listed as an aggressive $75,000! Well, with all the surprises we not only met our goal, but we nearly double it. Our ranks have been growing, and you heard the call for assistance. Just think we are supporting young religious women to take their places as well-prepared teachers, religious education directors, principals, camp directors and more. Sr. Elfie Del Rosario, our vocations director, also known as the "Happy Nun" joins me in heartfelt gratitude and prayer for you.
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The novices and aspirants with Mother Chiara Cazzuola, FMA, the Superior General of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians.
SALESIAN SCHOOLS IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, Miami, FL — ILS closed out Catholic Schools Week with one of the school's most cherished traditions — celebrating the Feast Day of Don Bosco! As Don Bosco once said,“Run, jump, play, but don’t sin!” His legacy reminds us that faith and joy go hand in hand. His story also challenges us to “Dare to Dream” — to trust in God’s plan, serve others with love, and pursue our purpose fearlessly.
The Class of 2025, had the honor of hosting the Special Olympics on campus, and it was nothing short of amazing! From the opening ceremony to the final race, our seniors worked tirelessly to create an inclusive, fun, and supportive environment for all involved. Their hard work and dedication to making this event a success truly embody the spirit of community and family.
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, North Haledon, NJ — This year marked the first-ever Student Cabaret Production! The theme of the event was Disney, and the students did an outstanding job organizing everything, from the planning to the lighting and sound. The event drew a large crowd, giving the students a chance to share their musical talents with friends, family, and the school community.
SALESIAN SCHOOLS VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, Tampa, FL — On February 5th, Villa celebrated Black History Month with a program prepared by Ms. Peyton Johnson (teacher and Villa alumna) and her committee. Long time recently retired Villa teacher Mrs. Angie Tillman served as keynote for the event. The Villa Madonna Family has, among its other characteristics, a great deal of diversity, and therefore honors and celebrates all its students. Villa Madonna School students participated in the Race to Space Fun Run to help raise money for school improvements. The students asked their families and friends to support the school as they spent the day running and having fun! It was great for the students to learn the importance of helping their school. Thank you to all who participated and supported the students in their endeavors.
ST. JOHN NEUMANN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL, Naples, FL — On the Feast of Don Bosco, St. John Neumann Catholic High School hosted a day full of faith, fun, and fellowship! Following Mass, celebrated by Bishop Frank J. Dewane, students from SJN and area elementary schools played games, jumped on inflatables, and enjoyed a festive lunch. It was a wonderful opportunity to come together in the spirit of St. John Bosco, who taught everyone to serve with joy and lead with love.
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SALESIAN SCHOOLS ST. THERESA SCHOOL, Kenilworth, NJ — Catholic Schools Week at St. Theresa School was a heartfelt celebration of faith, community, and commitment to academic excellence. The week kicked off with an evening Mass on Saturday, January 25th, where students, faculty, and families gathered to give thanks and reflect on the values that make St. Theresa unique. After the Mass, everyone was invited to the Learning Fair in the School Gymnasium. There was also an Open House for perspective parents. Other activities included 8th graders guest-teaching each class, buddy activities between classes, and a hat and sock drive for the needy. Students were also treated to a School of Rock and laser show presentation. One of the highlights of the week was celebrating the feast of St. John Bosco with a school Mass, a short skit presented by the first-graders and the long-awaited Bosco Bingo.
ST. FRANCIS DESALES HIGH SCHOOL, Columbus, OH — Sr. JooYun Park traveled to Washington D.C. with a delegation of students from St. Francis DeSales High School to attend the National March for Life in January.
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SALESIAN SCHOOLS ACADEMY OF OUR LADY HIGH SCHOOL, Marrero, LA — Academy of Our Lady senior Isabella Bankston had the opportunity of a lifetime, working alongside some of the nation’s top chefs at the Taste of the NFL event at the National WWII Museum in New Orleans on February 8, the weekend of Super Bowl LIX. The annual event, hosted by the Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation, brings together food, football, and philanthropy to raise funds for school meal programs. Bankston was among 62 high school students from the New Orleans area selected to assist celebrity chefs, including Carla Hall, Andrew Zimmern, and Susan Spicer, in serving food to over 2,000 guests, including football players, politicians, and other VIPs. "I am excited to work with these incredible chefs and gain hands-on experience
in such a high-energy environment," said Bankston. Guided by her ProStart culinary teacher, Chef Madeline Carpenter, Bankston gained priceless professional experience by coordinating with the kitchen to decorate plates and greet guests. “Isabella kept her focus and professionalism through the fast pace, assisting not one but two chef 's stations, utilizing skills she learned here at AOL and at a local restaurant kitchen,” said Chef Carpenter. “She is an amazing representative of the culinary program and our entire school, and I am so proud of her.” Principal Sr. Michelle Geiger praised Bankston’s hard work and the value of real-world experiences in preparing students for future careers. "Isabella’s hard work and commitment to her craft reflect the values we strive to instill in all our students,” said Sr. Michelle.
ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL, Hawthorne, NJ — St. Anthony School proudly hosted its annual STEM Showcase from January 24 - 26, featuring an exploration of biomimicry — the innovative practice of drawing inspiration from nature to solve human challenges. This hands-on event showcased the creativity and problem-solving skills of students from preschool through eighth grade as they applied real-world STEM principles to their projects. Examples of projects included the the second-grade class focused on wind resistance, designing a beach umbrella modeled after the stability of trees in strong winds and the eighth-grade class who showcased gliders designed to maximize flight distance and performance by mimicking the shape of bird wings. Parents were treated to a special preview day on Friday, followed by an open house event that welcomed members of the community to experience the ingenuity of St. Anthony’s young scientists and engineers firsthand.
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ON THE JOURNEY WITH SR. B
The Light Shines in the Darkness broken pieces together. Though delicate and meticulous, if done correctly, it adds a special beauty to the repaired piece. But why go to so much effort to repair a shattered teapot? Beyond its emotional value, the act of repairing something in this way is a spiritual practice. In Japanese Zen Buddhism, there's the concept of “wabi-sabi”— embracing the flawed or imperfect as a form of beauty. Instead of hiding the damage, you highlight it, making it part of the object's story. Things described as “wabisabi” are uneven, rough, asymmetrical—the very opposite of what is traditionally considered beautiful in Western culture.
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think it broke into at least eight pieces, as did my heart when I saw it. There are very few things I own that I truly treasure, but my teapot was something special to me. If you’re someone who appreciates the complexity of fine Chinese tea, you know that having a proper clay teapot greatly enhances both the flavor and the experience. Just as wine and various foods are improved when served in the right vessel, tea reaches its fullest potential when brewed in the proper teapot. Losing mine felt like losing the ability to brew tea to its fullest expression. I was more than a little sad. I gathered the shards into a container and stared at them for a while. I know people often try to repair these teapots because they are irreplaceable. Once you start making tea in one, the tea seeps into the clay, and the minerals within transform the flavor. As the teapot becomes “seasoned” over many sessions, it evolves into an essential tool for drawing out the best in a tea. Its magic is influenced by your tea preferences and brewing style. Even if someone gave me a new teapot, it wouldn’t be the same. Fortunately, I had the materials needed to repair it. With great care, I slowly began reattaching the shards, reconstructing the teapot piece by piece. There are two common methods for repairing teapots: one involves tiny drills and golden staples to stabilize and seal the pot back together. I didn’t trust my ability to manage that technique, so I opted for the other method: kintsugi. Kintsugi is a Japanese art form meaning “golden repair” or “golden joinery.” It involves using lacquer, tinted with gold mica and often finished with gold leaf, to glue the
Interestingly, items repaired with the kintsugi method often become more beautiful and serve as sources of reflection and meditation. My teapot, once repaired, was not the same as before. It was something new. Veins of gold and golden patches accented the red clay. When I finished, I couldn’t help but marvel at how lovely it looked, and I am happy to report that the teapot works just as well as it did before—perhaps even better. Maybe your life feels a little “wabi-sabi,” or perhaps you feel like you're carrying cracks that could never possibly heal. But if a human being can take a broken teapot and repair it with gold, increasing its artistic value, imagine what God can do with our lives. I carry many cracks and dents, but the spaces where I have allowed God to lay His hands have been restored in the most beautiful ways. I invite you to look at some kintsugi pieces online and find one that speaks to you. Perhaps it can serve as a gentle reminder that brokenness can be transformed into beauty, and that our scars can shine with grace when touched by God.
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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. Susan & Jeff Turner NEW JERSEY Chris & Gemma Chong Al Daloisio, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Laino Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer Joseph & Rita Weiner INDIANA Mr. & Mrs. Judson Church
MASSACHUSETTS Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair PC
NEW YORK Jordon Carroll
NEW YORK Mr. Silvio Alfeo Mr. & Mrs. Paul Cangro Mary Ellen Scala
NORTH CAROLINA Mr. Sean Nassoiy
VIRGINIA Mr. & Mrs. Greg Mueller PARTNERS CIRCLE “FRIENDS” - $3,300 FLORIDA Idalia Lastra Barket OHIO Mr and Mrs Philip Kraker NEW JERSEY Marilyn & Dale Livi Frank & Rosemary Lupo Family PARTNERS CIRCLE “FOUNDERS” - $2,200 ARIZONA Mrs. AnnMarie Forster CONNECTICUT Christina & David McAleer PC DELAWARE Maria Sturchio FLORIDA Mr. Daniel J. Bardauskis Anne & John Bedlek Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Clark Mrs. Patricia Driscoll Maria Restrepo Forte Mrs. Kathleen Medore Robert Nocek Mrs. Cissie Ramsey NEW JERSEY Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann Andrew Kavulich & Christine Papa The O’Halloran Family Andrelisa Michel & Michael Russo
PENNSYLVANIA In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA SOUTH CAROLINA Tom & Laurie Aldinger PARTNERS CIRCLE “BENEFACTORS” - $1,100 CALIFORNIA Mary & Robert Obenberger FLORIDA Mrs. Bernadine Ayer Mrs. Liana Baldor, in memory of Carlos & Ana Maria Baldor Joseph & Claudine Caballero PC Greg & Lori Korte Anne & Fred Michaels Mr. & Mrs. Rob Obbink Ms. Marianne O’Doherty Mr. Fredy Padovan Gene & Linda Perez John & Diann Pinkowski ILLINOIS The Rangel Family MARYLAND Chandler Rohde NEW JERSEY Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Amatuzzi Mrs. Theresa Cannarozzi Mr John Capeci Mr. & Mrs. James Cavaluzzi Ms. Debi F. Debiak, Esq. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Facciolo Mr. & Mrs. Martin Flemming Mr. Gary Frankin Eileen Gill Miss Mary Jean Hayek James Construction Company, Inc. Michael & Mary Losurdo Mr. Joseph Massood
Mr. and Mrs. Steven Mazzola Mrs. Faith Menard Mary Ann Munson Robert & Constance Sumas Cecilia and Augustin Yoon NEW YORK Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Clair Paul & Stephanie Gerardi Mary & Joseph Miressi NORTH CAROLINA Mrs. Eileen Seeburger PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Glen Berdela Mr. & Mrs. Brian Clair Ms. Kate Clair Msgr. Robert Carroll Dr. Allyson & Mr. Kevin Hardy TENNESSEE Patty & Dan Clair
MASSACHUSETTS Mr. Xavier Clair NEW JERSEY Mr and Mrs Mark Abene Adam Psichos & Clelia Biamonti Mrs. Rose Bielicki Gerard & Phyllis Brew Mrs. Regina Calcagno Christus Vincit, Christus Regnat, Christus Imperiat Shane & Valbona Clair Larry & Mary Anne Condit Mr. & Mrs. Andrew J. Dunn Mr. & Mrs. Clement Farley Mr. & Mrs. Michael Ferrito Joann Giamonco Mrs. Vivian Isenberg Riley Obetz & Corrinne Rieser Mrs. Christine Peragallo Maura & Michael Testa Edward M. Zambrano
CONNECTICUT Mr. Michael Guarnieri PC
NEW YORK Michael & Jeanette Altamura Ms. Lena Huang Mr. Walter Lazarcheck Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec Mr. Joey Vallie
FLORIDA Rene & Phyllis Rodriguez
NORTH CAROLINA The Hasher Family
MARYLAND The Albert Marra Family
OHIO Anonymous In memory of Mr. Fred Mastrogiovanni
PARTNERS CIRCLE “ASSOCIATES” - $825
NEW JERSEY Joseph W. & Kathleen Buckley OHIO Dale & Lynda Kovach RHODE ISLAND Mr. Mackenzie Clair PARTNERS CIRCLE “MEMBERS” - $550 CALIFORNIA Joanne & Geraldine Rizzuto CONNECTICUT Mr. Edward F. Goin Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey FLORIDA Mrs. Trudy Carey Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria Manny & Aggie Fernandez Mrs. Leslie Garcia PC Dr. & Mrs. Lazaro Hernandez Mr. and Mrs. Carl E. Kraus Louis and Elena Menendez Laguardia Mr. James D. Leone Kelly Barcia Nunez PC Joan Palmer Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds Hon. & Mrs. E.J. Salcines Teresa & Ravi Sharma Ron Yates
PENNSYLVANIA Mr. & Mrs. Glen Berdela Joseph & Joyce Boyle Mr. Stephen A. McBride, Esq. Mr. Brennan Obetz TENNESSEE Pat & Terence Clair 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 PARTNERS CIRCLE “QUARTER CENTURY CLUB” - $250 ARIZONA Ms. Christina Smith CALIFORNIA Ms. Jackie Edelman Mr. & Mrs. Gary Hoover Rev. Paula T. Webb, Ph.D. CONNECTICUT Anonymous
Mr. Michael Bavasso & Diane Nobert Mrs. Eileen G. Hahnenkratt Dr. Joe McAleer PC 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 IDAHO Dr. Ralph W. Higer MARYLAND Mrs. Josephine Savage MASSACHUSETTS Amanda Clair Mr. Seamus Clair Ms. Sandra M. Nadeau MISSOURI Jim Weis NEW JERSEY Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Choma Mr. & Mrs. Raymond P. Corbett Mr. & Mrs. Donald Cronrath Ms. Denise Dorgan & Mr. Michael Hynes Ms. Patrice Enyart Mr. & Mrs. Paul Galimi Mrs. Edith Josephson Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Konzelmann Msgr. Raymond Kupke Mr. and Mrs. Wayne H. Lehr Mrs. Rae Rinaldi Gene & Lorraine Signoretti Denise & Ken Trynosky Ms. Joanne Williams Mr. & Mrs. Steven Wojtowicz NEW YORK Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Clair Charles V. Curcio & Denise J. Curcio The Halling Family Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Forta Maria DaGrossa-Hanna PC Mrs. Carolyn Mesler Hon. Madeleine & Rene Perrin PC 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
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Sr. Pat Roche and Sr. Susan Bagli cheer on the faculty during a Student vs. Faculty basketball game at St. John Neumann Catholic High School in Naples, FL. Their cheering helped spur the faculty team to victory! The game was part of the House Program at Neumann in which the entire school is organized into four houses, across grade levels, to foster community and build school spirit.
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