Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s Letter Dear Friends, Students at Salesian schools are taught from the earliest age about the spirit of giving and the importance of helping others in need. At St. Anthony School in Hawthorne, NJ, even three-year-olds learn this lesson, as shown on our cover! The parish has a food pantry which assists hundreds of local families. During Catholic Schools Week, Sr. Elfie Del Rosario offered her young charges a service project, loading baskets in the pantry. What a simple yet beautiful way to express the Gospel message! This edition of Partners in Giving is chock-full of news as the new year unfolds. Our plans to rebuild St. Joseph’s Chapel are under way (see page 3). Our hard-working Dames of Mary Help are seeking new recruits (page 3), as we celebrate a record-setting Christmas Party (pages 4-5). Vocations continue to thrive (page 8). And, as always, our Salesian schools from North to South continue to inspire, fulfilling our vital mission to young people (pages 18-24). Temperatures may be plummeting outside (brrrr!), but the warmth and fervency of our Salesian outreach are as mighty as ever! Peace,
PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bimonthly magazine published by the
Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office 659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Telephone: (973) 904-0102 Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS E-mail: fmadevt@aol.com Website: www.salesiansisters.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/ salesiansistersdevelopment
2 • Partners in Giving • Volume 27 • Issue 1
Save These Dates! Friday, March 1
Adopt a Sister Luncheon
Salesian Youth Center, Tampa, FL Information & tickets: (813) 205-3195
Saturday, March 30
Father Rinaldi Awards Dinner a benefit for
Corpus Christi-Holy Rosary School Willow Ridge Country Club, Harrison, NY Information & tickets: (914) 937-4407
Sunday, April 7
Salesian Sisters’ Spring Party a benefit for
Mary Help of Christians Academy North Haledon, NJ Information & tickets: (973) 904-0102
Wednesday, May 1
Dames of Mary Help “Sip & Shop” a benefit for
Mary Help of Christians Academy Indian Trail Club, Franklin Lakes, NJ Information & tickets: (973) 904-0102
Editorial Board Dr. Joe McAleer, Editor Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of Development Elsie DeJesus, Production Manager Theresa G. Anderson, Copy Editor Federal Tax ID # 22-6043753 © 2019 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc. PRIVACY POLICY: Your name, address, and other information are held in confidence by our ministry and will never be sold, rented, or given to any other organization. Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
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Examining plans for the new Chapel are James Black, Taylor Smith, and David Acheson of Acheson Doyle Partners Architects, along with Sr. Marisa DeRose, Sr. Helene Godin, and Sr. Margaret Wilhelm.
ine months have passed since that tragic morning when fire destroyed our beloved St. Joseph’s Chapel at Mary Help of Christians Academy. Now, after countless meetings, a sizeable insurance settlement, and the generous support of so many of you, we are nearly ready to rebuild! The distinguished firm of Acheson Doyle Partners (good name!) Architects has presented a design concept to the Sisters. Plans will be finalized once we have determined that the needs of the students and the religious community have been met. Rebuilding could commence as soon as March, with a May groundbreaking for the new Chapel planned. Stay tuned for more details, and please keep the project in your prayers!
The Dames Corner
Meet the “Dames”!
W
hat is a “Dame”? We’ve heard there is nothing like them, but who are they and what do they do for Mary Help of Christians Academy? The Dames are a group of women with a passion for promoting Salesian education and raising scholarship money for many of the students at Mary Help. The Dames began 17 years ago in response to a need. The school was faced with updating some areas, and funds needed to be raised in order to get that done. Since then, the Dames of Mary Help have raised more than four million dollars and have helped countless students to have the privilege of a private, Salesian education. Dames are currently made up of 18 women from many diverse backgrounds. A few of the Dames have had children attend Mary Help, but most are not affiliated with the school except for their role as a Dame. They have been drawn to this role to give young women the opportunity to grow and become positive leaders and role models for their communities. If you are interested in learning more about the Dames or would like to explore joining us, please contact Sr. Mary Rinaldi: 973-904-0102. We hope to see you soon! – Rosalie Stanton & Theresa Rehain
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
The Dames of Mary Help have a new Chairwoman: Deborah Rohde (right), who received the gavel and title from Chairwoman Emeritus Maria Losurdo-Colangelo at the first Dames meeting of the year. The Dames voted and elected Deborah based on her years of dedication to Mary Help of Christians Academy as well as her years of experience in event planning and décor. Congratulations, Deborah!
Partners in Giving • Winter 2019 • 3
Our annual Christmas Party
A sold-out show of support for the Sisters!
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hristmas arrived early in North Haledon, NJ, with a record-setting Christmas Party at Mary Help of Christians Academy! On December 9, more than 500 guests attended the Salesian Sisters’ annual Christmas Party in North Haledon, NJ. Since the very first party more than 20 years ago, for the first time every seat was sold out before the party even started! The festive atmosphere, a delicious meal from The Market Basket of Franklin Lakes, and even a visit from “Santa Claus” himself, amidst the many beautiful gift baskets, all made for a wonderful time filled with the Christmas spirit. Congratulations to the winners of the Christmas Challenge Sweepstakes: $500 Grocery Gift Card, Roseann Mosseau of Montville, NJ; and the $500 Amazon Gift Card, Corey Mania of Rivervale, NJ.
Sr. Myriam Meus, Sr. Arlene Rubino, Sr. Anna Swiniarska, and Aspirant Garcia Jean-Bart were all smiles helping with the cookie booth.
Thank you to all who supported this amazing event, which raised more than $100,000 for the Mary Help Financial Aid fund. We hope to see you all again at our Spring Party on Sunday, April 7!
Jennifer DeJesus jumps for joy when her ticket was called for the Walt Disney World Park Hopper tickets!
Above, Terry Laudone, one of our faithful party coordinators for 20+ years, won a little red Corvette for her new grandson, Wes! Right, Sr. Jen Kane, Sr. Elfie Del Rosario, and Aspirants Kathleen Deighan and Shannon Stout were very busy alongside Sr. Margaret Wilhelm selling our Challenge and 50/50 tickets.
4 • Partners in Giving • Volume 27 • Issue 1
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
The Mary Help gymnasium was filled with good cheer by a record 500+ visitors this year!
Above, every year Sr. Mary Rinaldi delivers a marathon performance, announcing the winners of 200+ baskets! Left, brothers Joseph and John Paul Anderson are excited to tell “Santa” their Christmas lists! Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Winter 2019 • 5
Please “Adopt a Sister”!
Experience the transforming power of prayer
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 yourself, a family member, or a friend in need of spiritual strength, you will find comfort knowing that your intentions will be remembered each day by your spiritual prayer partner. And it makes the PERFECT gift, especially for a wedding, Baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation, birthday, anniversary – any occasion! Please complete the form below, visit us online at: www.salesiansisters.org, or call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you, and God bless you.
Sr. Teresa Gutierrez instructs Sr. Teresita Teran in the use of Wii Plus, an interactive exercise video that was the gift of Adopters Pat and John Connors. Even while sitting down, the Sisters are able to do upper body strengthening as well as lower leg exercises.
CVV: _____________
6 • Partners in Giving • Volume 27 • Issue 1
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
S
alesian Sisters, Priests, and Brothers from the Eastern and Western Provinces, along with Adam Rudin (Director of Salesian Lay Missionaries), gather for a group photo (above) at the annual SEEK conference in Indianapolis, IN. Organized by the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS), this year’s event drew over 15,000 students and young adults from across
Contact Sr. Theresa Lee: happynun@gmail.com
Sr. Marisol Guzman took time to teach college students how to braid a Rosary bracelet when most everyone else had gone to dinner!
the United States and several foreign countries. It was a stimulating experience of Catholic apologetics and keynotes from renowned Catholic speakers; prayer, Adoration, and liturgy; ongoing Reconciliation (with over 250 priests); and of course, an extremely busy Vocations booth (ours)! Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Partners in Giving • Winter 2019 • 7
Vocations News
Our Postulants thrive in the Golden State!
S
ince arriving in Bellflower, CA, during this, the second year of our formation to become Salesian Sisters, we five Postulants have been busy with a few things other than just working on our tans (!).
Our Postulants Natasha Roig and Anne Weis lead an Arts & Crafts activity to teach kids to listen for God speaking in their hearts. Our Postulants lead the music for the Oratory at St. Dominic Savio Parish.
During the week, we help out at Saint Dominic Savio School with our presence – Salesian Assistance – before school and during lunch/recess. We also teach classes in Religious Education class to prepare students for First Communion and Confirmation. On Saturdays, from 12-4, we help with Oratory, leading music, Gospel, and workshops for cooking, arts and crafts, and sports. We are also developing a training for the high school students who volunteer as “Animators” for Oratory, to teach them leadership skills as well as to help them grow in Salesian spirituality and their faith life overall. In between these activities, we have our formation classes. These include a weekly inter-congregational formation class, which we take with Postulants and Novices from two other religious orders. Some evenings we go in small groups to visit families from the parish who are struggling. We spend time getting to know them and pray with them, and usually leave behind a little gift that Divine Providence has sent our way. In our “spare time” you might catch us moving to Just Dance, picking grapefruit in the backyard, playing basketball, or spending quiet time visiting Jesus in the chapel. Life is good! Please pray for us! – Rose Wingard For more information on becoming a Salesian Sister, please e-mail Sr. Theresa Lee, Vocations Director: happynun@gmail.com
Above, Rose Wingard and two Animators teach how to make homemade pretzels and how to be “yeast” in the world. Right, Brithany Nicole Bustillo finishes up a sports activity with the oldest group at the Oratory.
8 • Partners in Giving • Volume 27 • Issue 1
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
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he Salesian Sisters Partners Circle was founded in 1991 to provide unrestricted funds for urgent needs of the Salesian Sisters and their mission. These include support for capital needs, scholarship assistance, technology upgrades, and funds for those unforeseen situations that require immediate attention. Your annual contribution to this fund empowers the Sisters to continue their mission: To Provide Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and to the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life. The fire which destroyed the Chapel at Mary Help of Christians Academy in May 2018 has underscored the vital importance of the Partners Circle Fund, enabling the Sisters to respond to an emergency.
There are nine levels of membership, starting at $250, which are listed on these four pages. PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees, a group of talented lay people who advise the Sisters on distribution of the fund. Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group? Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you, and God bless you!!
The Joseph J. McAleer, Sr. Heritage Society Major Bequests California Richard Meissner, Meissner Manufacturing Florida Dorothy & Dr. Vincent Bagli Josie & Ray Campo Anne & Joseph Garcia PC Mrs. Ann Lowry Murphey Angel Oliva Family The Dorothy Thomas Foundation
Partners Circle “Stewards”
Annual gift of $11,000 Florida Mr. & Mrs. James Millar New Jersey Anonymous Texas Mrs. Betty Turner
4
Welcome
Indiana Mrs. Beatrice Lightfoot New Jersey Tony Amato Family The Carini Family Mr. Anthony Petrocelli Ms. Roberta Ruocco Ms. Celeste Tripi Mr. Vincent Waraske
new or upgraded Partners Circle Members so far in 2019! Shown in RED
New York Mrs. Pearl Kalikow
Partners Circle “Partners” Annual gift of $5,500
Florida Mr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor PC Mrs. Beverly Rohde New Jersey Mr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis In memory of Mr. & Mrs. C.H. Church, Jr. Joanne & Al Daloisio Mr. Robert Harkins PC
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Mr. Bill McLaughlin PC Christopher & Corinne Schiavo & The Shepherd and the Knucklehead Pub Joseph & Rita Weiner New York Mr. John Cassara Beruta & James Dell’Orto Partners in Giving • Winter 2019 • 9
Welcome new 2019 members in Red! PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees.
Partners Circle “Friends” Annual gift of $3,300
Connecticut Mary Bridget Gaine
New Jersey Mario & Arline Monaco
Florida Dr. Idalia Lastra
Pennsylvania Christopher & Gemma Chong Mr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow
Massachusetts Mr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair PC
Partners Circle “Founders” Annual gift of $2,200 Connecticut Mr. Michael Guarnieri PC Christina & David McAleer PC Florida Mr. & Mrs. Cooper Carlisle John & Pat Connors Anthony & Diana Ekonomou Lowry Murphey Family Foundation Mrs. Kathleen Medore Lydia & John Oliva Mr. & Mrs. Mark Oliva PC
New Jersey Marilyn & Dale Livi Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Massood Mr. & Mrs. Michael Massood Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Papetti Rose Perone Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer PC Maria Sturchio New York Jordon Carroll Anthony & Geraldine Dell’Orto
Mr. Ian H. Graham Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala Pennsylvania In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA South Carolina Mr. & Mrs. Tom Aldinger
Partners Circle “Benefactors” Annual gift of $1,100 Arizona Mrs. Ann Marie Forster
Gene & Linda Perez Mr. Nick Suszynski PC
California Mr. & Mrs. Robert Obenberger
Georgia Mr. Robert Reiter
Connecticut Linda & Peter Christiansen PC Mr. & Mrs. Salvatore Zichichi
Massachusetts Mr. & Mrs. Neil Holmes
Florida Joseph & Claudine Caballero PC Terrell & Joe Clark Dr. Andrea & Sean Farrier PC Aida Yglesias Jurado Mr. & Mrs. Jim Major Dr. Patricia Mergo Mr. & Mrs. Frank Middendorf Robert Nocek Mr. Fredy Padovan
Missouri Ms. Marianne O’Doherty New Jersey Ms. Debi F. Debiak Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Della Cerra Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann James Construction Co., Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Anthony M. Laino Mr. James Lane
Michael & Mary Losurdo Mrs. Faith Menard Mrs. Maureen O’Halloran Robert & Constance Sumas Mrs. Carolyn Young New York Ms. Lea Battiato Jo Ann & Joseph Caracappa PC John W. Lombardi & Family The Sabatine Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Silveri North Carolina Chester & Monica Michewicz Pennsylvania Mr. & Mrs. Bob Danch Dr. Allyson & Mr. Kevin Hardy
Partners Circle “Associates” Annual gift of $825
Connecticut Dr. Joseph McAleer PC Florida Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria PC Declan & Paula Mansfield Anne & Fred Michaels Rene & Phyllis Rodriguez
Mr. & Mrs. Terry Wood New Jersey Mr. & Mrs. George Pavlik Theresa E. Unanue South Carolina Sandra M. Freeman
Welcome new 2019 members in Red! PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees.
Partners Circle “Members” Annual gift of $550 Arizona Anonymous
Illinois The Mills Family
Mr. Walter Lazarcheck Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec
California Joanne & Geraldine Rizzuto
Indiana Andrea Dealynn
North Carolina Mr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard
Connecticut Anonymous Mr. & Mrs. Edward F. Goin Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey
Louisiana Mr. & Mrs. George LeBlanc
Ohio Mr. & Mrs. Dale Kovach In memory of Mr. Fred Mastrogiovanni Ginnie Sitdham
Florida Dr. Kenneth Alonso Mr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, in memory of Ana Maria Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr. PC Mrs. Trudy Carey Dr. & Mrs. Antonio Castro Mrs. Leslie Garcia PC Mr. & Mrs. Luis Garcia PC Dr. Giacomo & Mrs. Judy Guggino Joseph Phillip, Jr. & Julia Jones Mr. & Mrs. Rob Obbink Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds Alina M. Roces Rudy Rodriguez Hon. & Mrs. E.J. Salcines PC Mr. & Mrs. David Smith Ms. Maria C. Torreiro Ron Yates Georgia Mr. Charles Fantauzza
Massachusetts Ms. Josephine Petrillo Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading New Jersey Anonymous Tiziana Anello, M.D. Larry & Mary Anne Condit Ms. Anita Cronk John J. Eccleston Mr. & Mrs. Michael G. Ferrito Dr. & Mrs. Louis Gambetta PC Joann Giamonco Teresa Gutto Laura Cosentino Mannarino Mrs. Diva Muller Mrs. Christine Peragallo E.N. Sarantis New York Michael & Jeanette Altamura Mr. & Mrs. Jack Betwarda Mr. & Mrs. Kevin Clair Mrs. Rose Mary Clair Ms. Claire Dell
Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
Pennsylvania Mr. & Mrs. Brian Clair Ms. Kate Clair Barbara (Levings) Hedgecock Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski South Carolina Mr. & Mrs. John Bedlek Tennessee Mr. Terence P. Clair Virginia Mrs. Dominique Faust Dr. Evelyn Garcia & Michael Maurer Karl & Laura Zauner Washington Mr. Keiran C. Clair Washington, DC Ms. Arina Grossu PC Partners in Giving • Winter 2019 • 11
Partners Circle “Quarter Century Club” Annual gift of $250
California Mr. Richard Suda Rev. Paula T. Webb Connecticut In memory of John R. Glover Mrs. Eileen G. Hahnenkratt Mr. Patrick J. Waide, Jr. Anonymous Florida Mr. & Mrs. Jon Barry Kurt & Laura Badertscher
Mr. & Mrs. Manuel Fernandez Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Fierman Mr. & Mrs. Edward Gomez, Jr. Mrs. Elsa Gutierrez-Janulonis Amy & Kevin Jarman Mr. & Mrs. John Mangin, Jr. John H. & Pauline Pedrero Mr. and Mrs. Paul Schmid Mrs. Raymetta Stowers Jim & Rita (Zoppo) Vietmeier New Hampshire Mr. & Mrs. Thomas DiMicelli
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any happy returns and blessings to Sr. Rosalie Di Peri (left), who celebrated her 95th birthday on January 7 with a festive lunch at the St. Joseph Provincial Center. Among the guests was her real-life sister, Sr. Domenica Di Peri.
Welcome new 2019 members in Red! PC denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees. New Jersey Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Amatuzzi Ms. Janice Collins Collins & Hogan Families Mr. & Mrs. David Hess Theodore & Lynda Leo Ms. Mary Bernadette Mazauskas Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Nowak Gregory & Stephanie Monaco Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Obetz Mrs. Mary Ann Ryan Anna & Richard Spalckhaver Mr. & Mrs. Michael Testa Karla T. Villarin Mr. Edward M. Zambrano New York Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Collison Mr. & Mrs. Charles V. Curcio Megan & J.T. Hunt Ms. Peggeann Larywon Mrs. Carolyn Mesler Ohio Anonymous Pennsylvania Mr. & Mrs. Fred A. Cairoli Mrs. Judith Falcone Lichty Mrs. Eileen Seeburger
Why pigs on the birthday cake? Why, P.I.G. stands for Partners in Giving, of course!
12 • Partners in Giving • Volume 27 • Issue 1
South Carolina Elizabeth Craig & Michael Reeves, Jr. Tennessee Mr. & Mrs. Robert Greenwell Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
Dear Friends: A message from Sister Joanne
Don Bosco and the Hail Mary Pass *Disclaimer: For the diehard football fans out there, this article is NOT entirely about your favorite sport.
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n January 31, the entire Salesian world prepared and celebrated the Feast of St. John Bosco, Founder of the Salesian Family, Co-Founder of the Salesian Sisters, and Patron Saint of young people. Most Salesian places spent the month preparing for the day, which also coincided with two other significant national events: Catholic Schools Week and the Super Bowl. It is fitting that we celebrate the gift of Catholic education and a national sport at the same time as a Saint who valued education and having fun. Catholic Schools Week was held from January 27-February 2 with the theme, “Catholic Schools: Learn, Serve, Lead, Succeed.” Don Bosco was all about education; he was the educator par excellence (“Don” is an Italian title for a priest). One of my favorite quotes from Don Bosco is, “Education is a matter of the heart.” Don Bosco not only believed this but continues to live it, through the efforts of his Salesian Priests, Brothers, Sisters, and Cooperators. You can find us in over 130 countries, serving the young in thousands of educational facilities, from schools to after-school programs, and summer camps to college ministries. Wherever there are young people in need, we try to be there. Don Bosco wanted his Salesians to help the young become protagonists in their lives, powerful witnesses to the joy and happiness found in holiness. He formed them to be
honest citizens on earth (so they could one day be citizens of Heaven) who valued the gift of learning, used their abilities for service, led others to goodness, and succeeded in using the gifts God entrusted to them. I mentioned the Super Bowl, and if you are part of the half of Americans who watched it, I hope your team won. We know that having effective plays and a strong strategy are the key to success in a Super Bowl. Even the most skilled players are ineffective without a plan. I like to think that Don Bosco
“We know that having effective plays and a strong strategy are the key to success.” started his great work with young people with a strong strategy – turning to Our Lady whenever he was in need. He counted on her help to guide his “plays.” Even when things seemed hopeless, he was all about the “Hail Mary Pass”! (A seemingly hopeless play made in a desperate moment during a game that can result in seemingly miraculous success.) In his memoirs, Don Bosco describes an encounter with a scruffy teen, Bartholomew Garelli, an encounter that launched his work of leading the young to the goal line of happiness and holiness: On the 8th December 1841 I was getting ready to celebrate Mass
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when I heard a big argument going on. The church sacristan was beating a poorly dressed boy with a cane, and driving him out of the church. “What do you mean, you don’t know how to serve Mass?” the sacristan shouted. “Stop!” I said. “He is my friend.” I asked the boy his name and invited him to stay for Mass and breakfast. His name was Bartholomew Garelli, 16 years old, an orphan who worked as a bricklayer. I asked, “Can you read or write?” “No!” “Can you sing?” “No!” “Can you whistle?” Bartholomew began to laugh, which was just what I wanted. We talked for a long time. He hadn’t made his First Communion because he was too old for the catechism class. They made fun of him! I offered to teach him myself. “When would you like to start your catechism lessons?” “Whenever you like.” “This evening, perhaps?” “Yes.” Even now?” “Yes, I’d like that very much.” Thereupon Don Bosco knelt down and, before beginning the lesson, recited a Hail Mary, asking Our Lady to give him the grace to save that boy’s soul. That fervent prayer and Don Bosco’s selfless zeal bore great fruit. (Biographical Memoirs, volume 2, pages 58-59.) Don Bosco cultivated his ability see the good in each young person, continued on page 15 Partners in Giving • Winter 2019 • 13
Memorials
A Love That Lasts Forever
Received between December 2, 2018 and January 28, 2019 Sr. Frances Gumino, FMA Mrs. Roseann Mosseau
You can honor a cherished relative or friend with an everlasting gift of love – a memorial. Our Partners in Giving Memorials & Tributes give you the opportunity to comfort those who have lost a loved one or to commemorate a special occasion. This gift lives forever, joining our loved ones to the prayers of the Salesian Sisters while supporting their good works. The name of your loved one will appear in our Partners in Giving magazine – a priceless gift to those you love. Give the gift that lasts forever. Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of: ____ $25
____ $20
Memorial for Tribute for
____$15 $ Name – DECEASED
Name – LIVING
Occasion
Aunt Carmen Nieves Berriz de Ruiz Ms. Alina Roces Camille D’Amato Kornutick Ms. Carol Kasper Florence O’Donnell Ms. Carol Kasper Christopher Eisenhardt Ms. Doris V. Loverich Flora Iommetti Mr. & Mrs. Steve Garrison Dr. Noreen Hanjinlian Mr. & Mrs. Tamiko Takeda Ms. Patricia Torraco Martin Meger Ms. Janet M. Meger Mary V. Ponzio Ms. Bette Dierich
Mary A. Bertani Mr. & Mrs. Ron Kibbey Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Joseph Mr. & Mrs. William Douma Mr. & Mrs. Rich Baraus Spring Meadow Condo Association Mr. Peter P. Antonini Ms. Dorothy Vanderbeck Mr. & Mrs. Asron Pullhamus Mr. & Mrs. Steven Rabel Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Johnson Ms. Alma M. Ruesch Mr. & Mrs. Jim Shada Mr. & Mrs. Bob Begley Ms. Jean Marmo Mr. Luke Dickinson Ms. Kelly Valentine Mr. & Mrs. Sam Scillieri Ms. Lisa Davidson Mr. David Stebbins The Pellicciari Family Ryan Vassallo Ms. Roseanne Versaci
Petrina M. Guarisco Mrs. Mary Ann Apoldo Walter Pukszta Mrs. Barbara Pukszta
Please send an acknowledgement to: Name
Tributes
Address
Received between December 2, 2018 and January 28, 2019
My Name
Sr. Rosalie Di Peri, FMA, on her 95th birthday Dr. Joe McAleer
John & Diann Pinkowski Mr. & Mrs. Kevin M. Seman
Edith Shin Lee Ms. Cecilia Y. Lee
John Kublick Mr. Paul Fry
Florence Meger Ms. Janet M. Meger
Virginia Jones Ms. Louise Jones Jankovic
Address Detach & mail in the enclosed envelope to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397 Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS
14 • Partners in Giving • Volume 27 • Issue 1
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, North Haledon, NJ – Proudly standing before the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC, is the Academy delegation to the 46th annual March for Life. Sisters Myriam Meus and Jen Kane, along with Sr. Brittany Harrison, accompanied the students to the world’s largest pro-life rally, observed on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade which legalized abortion in this country.
DEAR FRIENDS continued from page 13 even the toughest. He realized that many young people, like today, were coming from situations that were dead ends, with no one who believed in them, and no chance to win in life. Don Bosco knew that young people were made of the right stuff to be winners; they were made for greatness. No matter the situation, no matter how hopeless it seemed, Don Bosco always began with his “Hail Mary Pass” to Our Lady, asking her to open the way where everything seemed blocked. With
trust in Our Lady, he prayed his Hail Mary with great faith, and he scored. Don Bosco’s complete faith in her allowed Our Lady to bring miracles
“Trusting in the help of Mary, Don Bosco continues to inspire us to stay in the game.” where hopelessness abounded. His first score with Bartholomew led the Salesian Family to grow and be a
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presence for every young person its members have encountered for the past 178 years. I invite you to join us in thanking God for the gift of Don Bosco! His ability to not to get overwhelmed with defeat but to believe in the goodness of young people, while trusting in the help of Mary, continues to inspire us to stay in the game, throw our “Hail Mary Passes,” and to win souls for Christ. Viva Don Bosco! Sr. Joanne Holloman is the Superior of the Province of St. Joseph. Partners in Giving • Winter 2019 • 15
Please “Give Us This Day”!
An exchange of love
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s there a better gift than a day of prayer? Do you have a happy occasion you would like to share? The Salesian Sisters will celebrate with you. Is it a time to commemorate a less-than-happy occasion? Let the Sisters help. Have you someone to thank? All of us will multiply this gratitude to that special person. So, please “Give Us This Day”!
Any and every event or person or situation that merits special attention will be publicized on a bulletin board outside our chapel on your special day. All the Sisters, on that day, will pray for that person/event and for the person who requests prayers for the day. Our Lord has assured us, “Where two or three are gathered in My Name, I am among them.” What better assurance can we have? Let this exchange of prayer be an example of our concern and love for one another. Thank you, and God bless you.
Give Us This
Day
Sisters Gloria Machado and Judith Suprys enjoyed the recent visit by Charlie, a four-year-old therapy collie, and his master, Thomas (a former Salesian student), to the Provincial Center.
Please give us this day/these days in 2019 in honor of my special request(s):
Please detach and mail this form in the enclosed envelope. Thank you!
16 • Partners in Giving • Volume 27 • Issue 1
Please call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS
On the Journey with Sister B
What does your Valentine from God say?
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All you need is love, love, Love is all you need.
hese lyrics from the famous Beatles song often float around my mind during Valentine’s season. It’s the time when cherry red hearts and pink candied flowers strain towards shoppers and remind them of loves lost and found. I’ve never encountered anyone who is neutral about St. Valentine’s Day and its ensuing commercial, cupid-filled traditions; either you love it or loathe it. Personally, I never turn down free chocolate, even if it comes attached to an overly saccharine sentiment from someone I barely know that on any other day of the year would be awkward to receive.
God, loving and serving Him in those around us, giving of ourselves in fidelity, and always seeking Him in our daily interactions. God reciprocates this covenantal love through the kindness and generosity of our friends and the people with whom and to whom we minister, often surprising us with how intimately He is present in those interactions and our moments of prayer. Our God is alive and His presence is ever dynamic, moving throughout our day. Our sensitivity to God’s loving presence is nourished by our prayer life and our support of one another as a community. Every day is a new invitation to accept that love more fully and to love others, with Him and our Sisters, more deeply. It requires an element of faith to seek God as our “love,” but the example of our Sisters, and the Salesian Saints who have gone before us, show us that “love is all we need,” if we seek that love with our whole hearts.
Working with teenagers lends me a lot of insight into the deepest longings of the human person. Since the last five years have found me at Mary Help of Christians Academy, “Who doesn’t love our all-girls’ high school in New Jersey, Every morning, we begin our day gathered being in love?” I have learned that girls, when it comes around the altar. Through the Eucharist, to love, are smitten. They all love being Jesus gives us the greatest Valentine – His in love. Who doesn’t? Heart! His Heart gives us the strength to love even those whom we dislike, and fills us with the The euphoria of feeling wanted and accepted, paired courage to keep going when faced with suffering and with the excitement of getting to know someone, is one struggle. The Eucharist is the daily Valentine Jesus sends of the warmest and most human of experiences. Unlike to each of us! animals, we don’t just bond to carry on the species – we bond to deepen our identity as children of God called to This Valentine’s Day, I invite you to spend some time love and be loved, created in the image of the God who is in reflection and prayer, especially after receiving Holy the origin and center of love itself. Communion. In each Communion God is sending you a unique Valentine message of love. What does your You probably wonder how this works for those of us Valentine from God say? What is He asking you to do called to be Salesian Sisters. How do we experience that with His love? human delight of being loved and loving exclusively? Who do we exchange Valentine’s gifts with each year? May your answers to those questions lead you to Before you begin to feel badly for the Sisters and pile understand more fully that, “All you need is love.” chocolate boxes and red roses at our convent doors (not Happy St. Valentine’s Day! that we would mind that – the roses would go nicely in the chapel!), I want to assure you that we are very, – Sr. Brittany Harrison, FMA very loved. Our vocation calls us to an exclusive love relationship with God, a reflection of how we will all live Sr. Brittany is the Campus Minister and Theology Departin Heaven. Our vows lead us to make a covenant with ment Chair at Mary Help of Christians Academy. Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
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SALESIAN SCHOOLS ! MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, North Haledon, NJ – In terms of success, the varsity bowling team has had an historic winter, by all accounts! The Academy’s all-girls team, coached by Mrs. Anita Muthee-Pagan (kneeling in front), bowls in a Boys/Co-Ed League in our conference, and just won the Passaic County Tournament, bowling a total of 2,172 to eliminate tournament favorite Wayne Valley, who had a five-year title streak! This is the First County Championship in school history. We are so proud of our bowlers for this amazing accomplishment: (left-right) junior Audrey McMillin, seniors Bryonna Richburg and Alleyna Jean-Philippe, , and sophomores Kayla Sullivan and Savannah Susen. Now on to the state tournament! IMMACULATE CONCEPTION SCHOOL, Marrero, LA – One December morning, the entire Immaculate Conception School community – students, parents, teachers, administrators and friends – gathered on the school campus to decorate over 300 wood studs that will form the support for the 2019 New Orleans St. Jude Dream Home. The event was the culmination of a fourweek service learning project in conjunction with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and local contractor and ICS alumnus, Hyman L. Bartolo, Jr. At left, kindergarten assistant Jena Landry and her students proudly display their decorated wood stud. The service learning project raised over $10,000 for St. Jude’s! The home is currently under construction and will be completed in May.
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IMMACULATA–LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, Miami, FL – It says a lot about an educational institution and philosophy when many of the youth who were educated in the institution return to pay it forward…at Immaculata-La Salle, we are blessed to have over 33 alumni who have returned and are working for our youth in administration, the classroom, technology and the athletic department! This group of alumni represents graduates from the 1970’s to today…close to five decades of Catholic educators dedicated to youth! They have embraced the Salesian spirituality and lead today’s youth in the model of Don Bosco and Mary Mazzarello through reason, religion and loving kindness!! Way to go, Royal Lions! CAMP AUXILIUM, Newton, NJ – This January the Sisters and the camp hosted a Counselor Holiday Pizza Party giving staff and counselors from the 2018 camp season a chance to get together during the off season. Counselors and staff members brought donations for the local food pantry, and some even brought along a friend interested in applying for the 2019 camp season with its theme, “God’s Game Plan.” Camp will be here before we know it! Camp Auxilium is planning a Garage Sale in the Spring, and Breakfast with the Easter Bunny and an Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 13. Tickets will go on sale in late February; for details, visit www.campauxilium.org or e-mail Summercamp@campauxilium.org. We hope to see you there! Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org
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ST. THERESA SCHOOL, Kenilworth, NJ – Our annual Christmas show, created by Celeste Clydesdale and arranged by David T. Clydesdale, was called “An Out-of-the-Box Christmas.” The show took place at the final dress rehearsal for the Christmas pageant. The costumes finally arrive, and when they are pulled “out of the box,” they are all wrong. Working together, the children come up with some unique, comical, and heartfelt ways to share the Christmas message with their friends and family. After all, if God can use a donkey to speak to Balaam, and a burning bush to speak to Moses, He can surely use cowboys, pirates, and cheerleaders to tell His love story! We learn that we never know what our great big God will do to reach someone with His love. Students in Kindergarten to second grade class practiced until they were perfect and ready to perform for the school and parents.
Above, Mary and Joseph ended the show with “A night to remember,” played by Neha Padikkal and Alberto Rodriguez. Left, first- and second-graders were the chorus for the seven musical numbers which included fun melodies such as, “A Super Duper Hero on the Faith.”
ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, Marrero, LA – The Academy’s chapter of the National Honor Society sponsored an annual school-wide food drive. A total of 1,300 items were collected and donated to the St. Vincent DePaul Society of Immaculate Conception Parish, directly benefitting the needy in Marrero, Harvey, and Westwego. At left, Sr. Lillian Foxx, senior Abby Heitmeier and junior Amally Abdeljabar collect donations from each homeroom in preparation for the donation pick up. Well done, students!
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SALESIAN SCHOOLS !
VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, Tampa, FL – Students in EC-3 through third grade were thrilled when experts from Busch Gardens paid a visit to teach about the classification of animals and reptiles. It was a hands-on experience, too, as Victoria Valdes of EC-4 had the opportunity to touch a giant snake, looked on somewhat apprehensively by classmate Jessica Ramirez.Thank you, Busch Gardens!
CAMP AUXILIUM, Newton, NJ – Camp Auxilium families, former school families, and a few new families made up the over 190 attendees for Breakfast with Santa – a new record for a fundraising breakfast! Sr. Liz Ryan’s Christmas Village and Train Display was highly anticipated by everyone and filled the room with holiday joy as attendees took turns enjoying the display, including young Leo, who was clearly enthralled!
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SALESIAN SCHOOLS !
ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, Marrero, LA – Congratulations to Senior Madeline Boudreau who has formally committed to playing golf at the University of Nebraska Omaha, one of several scholarship offers. Madeline is an avid golfer and a member of the Academy golf team. Joining her as she signed a letter of intent were Principal Sr. Michelle Geiger, Coach Craig Kirtland, and her parents, Mark and Lisa Boudreau.
VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, Tampa, FL – The Salesian Junior Apostles, a club of 6th to 8th graders at Villa Madonna School, attended a presentation given by Rose Llauget, Director of Foundations of Life for Catholic Charities in the Diocese of St. Petersburg, on March for Life day, January 18. Rose is also an alumna of Villa Madonna and a good friend of the Salesian Sisters. She educated the students on the importance of life from conception to natural death, letting students (including Rylie Belusic, at left) take turns holding a model of an unborn baby at 22 weeks, who under current law could be aborted. Thank you, Rose, for enlightening us!
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IMMACULATA–LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, Miami, FL – The theme of this year’s Royal Gala was “Tropicana 1950,” evoking the romantic appeal of 1950s Cuba. Truly, the gala committee, co-chaired by ILS moms Berti Perez and Maria Cecilia Rachadell, made this an evening to remember! Our 2019 honorees, Miami Mayor Francis X. Suarez, ILS class of 1996, and his father, Miami-Dade County Commis-sioner, Xavier L. Suarez, were chosen for their friendship, support, and service to Immaculata-La Salle High. The ILS capital campaign, “Building on the Legacy,” was announced at the gala, with Mayor Suarez as Honorary Chair. Thank you, Mr. Mayor!
Above, with his 1996 yearbook photo in the background, Miami Mayor Francis X. Suarez endorses the ILS Capital Campaign during the gala. At left, Sr. Clare Kennelly, Sr. Suzanne Dauwalter, and Sr. Kim Keraitis express thanks to the Royal Gala Chairs: ILS moms Kelly Gold, Berti Perez, Alejandra Guerra de Rumbos, and Maria Cecilia Rachadell. Below, Father and Son Honorees, Xavier L. Suarez, Miami Dade County Commissioner, and Mayor Suarez, Honorary Chair of the ILS “Building on the Legacy” Capital Campaign.
ILS students Sophia Kish, Christine Hawkins, and Katie Perez-Sanchez pose with Sr. Kim Keraitis and Mayor Suarez by the bay after their pre-Gala interview with the Mayor for LTV.
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earching for buried “treasure” underneath the slide in the Ana Maria Baldor-Bunn Playground at Villa Madonna School in Tampa, FL, are these determined EC-4 “pirates” (and a masked monster!). To celebrate the 100th day of school on January 18, students honored “P,” the letter of the week, by coming to school in their pajamas and pretending to be pirates in the playground looking for precious prizes! Aargh! Good show, mateys!