Journeys Sisters of St. Casimir
Vol. XXXII No. 1 Spring 2018
Sisters of St. Casimir receive Catholic Charities Centennial Award For being an “extraordinary witness to the Gospel,” the Sisters of St. Casimir received a Centennial Award at Catholic Charities’ Christmas Liturgy in the St. Casimir Center chapel on December 14, 2017. Msgr. Michael M. Boland, President and CEO of Catholic Charities of
the Archdiocese of Chicago, presented to Sister Regina Dubickas, General Superior, a plaque featuring an etching of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. Engraved on the base of the plaque are words of Pope Francis: “We are called to find Christ in the poor, to lend our voice to their causes, but also to be their friends, to listen to them, to speak to them and to embrace the mysterious wisdom that God wishes to share with us through them.” Sister Margaret Zalot, General Councilor/General Secretary, said, “Catholic Charities truly appreciates our presence with them and our appreciation of the important ministry they do from the St. Casimir Center and 160 other locations.” Catholic Charities marked its 100th anniversary in the Archdiocese of Chicago with a Mass at Holy Name Cathedral on May 7, 2017. At the end of the anniversary Mass, Msgr. Boland presented the first Centennial Award to Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago.
The Sisters of St. Casimir were honored and pleasantly surprised to receive the Catholic Charities Centennial Award. First row, from left: Sister Dolorine Lopez, Sister Regina Dubickas, Sister Margaret Zalot, Sister Margaret McTaggart. Second row, from left: Sister Immacula Wendt, Sister Theresa Dabulis, Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius, Sister Rita Marie Kerdock, and Monsignor Michael M. Boland.
A Message from Sister Regina Dear friends, One of the most important things we do in the first issue of Journeys at the beginning of every year is to thank you for your generosity, care and support of our community and its mission. Your contributions help us continue: 1) to provide for the health care needs of our Sisters who have given their lives in service to others and 2) to support the ministries that are an expression of our mission of education, health care and assistance to those in need. The donations we receive are often accompanied by letters and notes in which people share with us their personal needs for prayers for themselves and their loved ones. We want you to know that we remember you and all our benefactors every day in our prayers, asking that God give you the graces needed. You are an important part of the circle of our life. In this issue of Journeys you will read the stories of so many who are part of that circle: + our staff who work so faithfully with us every day to respond to the needs of our community and its mission, + our Associates who value the gift of sharing our spirituality and living it out in their own vocation, + our Catholic Charities staff with whom we share our Motherhouse space and who continue the legacy of service that is so important to all of us, + our St. Casimir Academy-Maria High School alumnae with whom we have a yearly gathering,
+ our Auxiliary who so faithfully host two fund raising events for us every year, + our friends at the Maria Kaupas Center in Chicago and in Mt. Carmel, PA, who draw on the inspiration of Mother Maria to make a difference in the lives of young people, + our Villa Joseph Marie family in Holland, PA, who proudly carry on the spirit of Mother Maria and our community “always more, always better, and always with love,” + our friends at Sinai Health System-Holy Cross Hospital who so selflessly continue the mission of healing and hope. We are so blessed! The legacy, the spirit, the mission to which we pledged our lives continues to live on in the hearts and lives of so many. We are deeply grateful! As we celebrate the Easter season, may we continue the prayer, sacrifice, and works of love that marked our Lenten journey. May your heart, in the words of our Holy Father Pope Francis, ever be “more firm and merciful, attentive and generous, a heart which is not closed or indifferent to the joys and sorrows of the world.” In the name of all of us, your Sisters of St. Casimir, I wish you all the joy and blessings of our Risen Lord. Happy Easter! Sister Regina Dubickas, SSC General Superior Sisters of St. Casimir
Commissioning of Our Partners in Mission
"We recommit ourselves to the mission of our community, Commissioning of our Partners in Mission took place during the 11:30 Mass on March 13th in the St. Casimir Cen- You are part of our life. You partner with us in the care of ter chapel. After the Mass Sister Regina gave a short reflection our senior sisters, the oversight of our resources, the support of the ministries that in which she shared: express our mission "We have always of education, healbeen trying to find a ing, and responding way to express what to those in need. You we truly feel in our share our story with hearts with all of you others.... working side by side "We are together with us... for a great love. We "So what are we are making a differlooking to express? ence, and we thank that we are united in you for being parta common purpose, ners with us." that we share a comAfter the reflecmon mission, that tion, the employwe are family. We ees and volunteers all want to feel that prayed a commitwhat we are doing is not just a job, but Back row: Pat O'Leary, Health Services Coordinator; Sister Immacula Wendt, Fran ment prayer, then that it's meaninful- Tenbroeck, Communications Office Volunteer; Daina Cyvas, Communications and Project celebrated with an and part of a larger Coordinator; Toni Courson, driver; Sister Elizabeth Yocius. Front row: Bob Kristy, Senior appreciation lunch Accountant; Sister Margaret McTaggart, Mary Beth McCarthy, Associate Treasurer; Sister hosted by the SSCs. picture. Dolorine Lopez, Sister Regina Dubickas, General Superior; and Sister Margaret Zalot.
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Maria Kaupas Center (Chicago) Building Inclusive Communities
On Saturday, January 27, the Maria Kaupas Center (MKC) Program Director Amy Eckhouse and Program Coordinator and full-time Lasallian volunteer Diana Lockett participated in the 3rd Annual Colloquium on “Becoming Lasallian: Building Inclusive Communities.” The event was sponsored by the Institute for the Advancement of Catholic and Lasallian Education. It was held at Lewis University in Joliet, IL. The keynote address, “Biblical Models of Lasallian Inclusion,” was delivered by Brother Armand Alcazar, FSC. Amy Eckhouse and Diana Lockett presented a PowerPoint on Restorative Practices used at the MKC, in partnership with Catalyst-Maria School. The administering of Restorative Practices has successfully replaced the
demerit system at Catalyst-Maria School. The students participating in Restorative Practices training learn leadership skills. Together with the student who has caused the community harm, they decide how to best hold that student accountable. In addition, they decide how the harm to the community will be repaired. This contributes to students' social and emotional development skills, building and repairing relationships and responsible decision making and self-management. “What an awesome opportunity, to share what we are doing at the MKC,” said Amy Eckhouse. “It’s refreshing to speak with other professionals and college students about the Restorative Practices. The positive feedback was phenomenal.”
Catalyst-Maria students and Maria Kaupas Center Program Director Amy Eckhouse participating in a "Peace Circle."
The Maria Kaupas Center is a Catholic space where spirituality, community and leadership merge, creating opportunities for the people of all faiths to grow and develop as effective agents of God’s love. The Maria Maria Kaupas CenterKaupas stiuide Center (MKC), located in the former Maria High School convent, is a faith-based w w w. ssc 2601. com
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WITH GRATITUDE TO OUR BENEFACTORS We acknowledge with deep gratitude the loving generosity of our many supporters. Adamo, Martha Albrecht, Margaret Allegretti, Dr. Paul & Denise Alyinovich, Dorothy Ambrose, Mary Joan Amsbaugh, Carolyn Andrijiwskyj, Andy & Zenovia Andrulonis, SSC, Mary Louise Anella, Mildred Aronson, Chris & Faith Asacker, Peter & Pamela Ashe, Larry & Rose Atkenson, Paul & Janice Atkenson, Dr. Robert Atkenson, David Azara, Mary Bacik, Bernice Baiardo, Eugene Baliotti, Debbie Bandyk, Joseph Bandyk, SSC, Lucille Ann Baran, Leo Bardauskis, Daniel Barnett, Peggy Bartos, Theresa Baumhart, Barbara Beauchemin, Patricia Bednarcik, Richard & Elaine Beitmann, William Belsky, Catherine Belzinskas, Remigijus & Danute Bendoraitis, Ronald Bertrand, Richard Bibat, Mary Ann Biell, Mary Bigelis, Agnes Billus, John Blash, Roberta Bocinsky, Mary Bodnar, Susan Bogish, Michael & Elaine Boguski, Robert Bolman, Denise Bolman, R. Bona, Dianne Bonenberger, Tom & Janet Borowski, Stephen & Marita Brazen, Josephine Brice, Rita Brooks, Carol Brummel, Patricia
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Bruner, Daniel & Ruth Brusic, Joanne Brzegowy, Rita Buckley, Paula Bucko, Christine Bukis, Joseph Bullet, Frances Bullett, Walter & Karen Burnett, Milton & Paula Burnett, C. Burns, Alice Burns, Mary Bush, Stanley & Marie Anne Bynoe, Carol Camp, Robert & Patricia Campbell, Dolores Casey, Jeanne Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago Cekaitis, Constance Cervantes, Sal Chicago Lithuanian Women's Club Christel, Clementine Christel, Mary Christophersen, Andrew Ciabattari, Gina Ciaccia, Jeanie Cicenas, Zinnia Cipolla, Mary Ann Cizauskas, Theresa Clark, Lori R. Clow, Barbara & Raymond Collier, Clara Collins, Daniel Comes, Virginia & Urban Conforti, Fred & Leona Conforti, Gloria Contons, Albert Conville, Mary Costa, Marie Couch, Gregory & Christine Crochunis, Paul & Marian Cyvas, Saul & Daina Czuba, Mark Dabulis, SSC, Theresa Dachota, Eleanore Dahhan, Abdul Damasauskas, Robert Dancy, John & Agatha Darling, Sandra Dauparas, Joseph Davidson, Charles Davis, Julia S ist er s
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Davis, Jon & Jacqueline Dawson, Daniel Deckys, Elena Deiters, Pamela Delaney, John Deman, Francine Dempsey, Fred & Mary Demske, Patricia Denning, Richard & Margaret Depue, Roger & Joanne Deputron, David & Christine Deputron, Ronald & Claudia Devereux, Veronica Dieters, James & Dorothy Dinan, Patricia Disis, Leonard & Dolores Disis, Mary Dixey, Joan Dobrolsky, Sr., John & Janice Domal, Joseph & Elaine Dopkin, Raymond & Florence Doyle, Rose Dozier, Eleanor Drap, Joseph & Sandra Drungelo, Fran Dubickas, SSC, Regina Dueling, Loretta Dusza, Mary Ann Dutcavich, Gloria Dymond, George Dzielak, Diana Eaton, Jennifer Ebert, Eleanor Ellis, Janet Encina, Othon & Christine Eppenstein, Paula Ernst, Anne Esposito, Mary Etsch, Suzanne Fabian, Morris & Marilyn Fahey, Barbara Farkas, Robert Farkas, Dorothy Feldhaus, Marlene Feliss, Bernice Ferro, Anthony Fierro, Lynn Figel, Genevieve Filip, William Fitzpatrick, Robert Flaherty, Dennis & Diane
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Foreacre, Barbara Forseth, Kirk & Margie Franciscan Village/ Mother Theresa Home Residents and Associates Frank, IHM, Gloria Frenchik, Mary Fronheiser, Jim & Rosemarie Galenas, Paul & Patricia Galitski, Joseph & Elizabeth Gallo, Nicholas Gasunas, Mary Gavenda, Robert & Anne-Marie Gaytan, Sergio & Andrea Gedwill, Isabell Gercius, Mary Anna Gestautas, Loretta Gilbert, Albert & Maryanne Glock, Barbara Goepfert, Joann & son Goldstein, Ann Goldthwaite, Cecelia Golub, Arnold & Mari Golubickis, SSC, Janine Gonzales, Joseph Gordon, Joseph Grigonis, SSC, Rosalinda Gronski, Ed & Karen Gronskis, Elaine Guertin, Carolyn Guttenplan, Barbara Hackett, Andrea Brien Hagey, Dolores Handshaw, Robert & Patricia Hanlon, Estelle Hardwood, Monica Hartnett, Gregory & Barbara Harwood, Monica Hattemer, Bruce Heaney, Judith Heenan, Teresita Heintz, James & Celia Henderson, Tara Hennig, Kenneth & Christine Herman, Eugene & Esther Higham, John & Janet Hinojosa, Jorge & Donna Hivish, Kathleen Hope, Patricia Horan, Carol Horton, Patricia Hoteko, Donna w w w. ssc 2601. com
JANUARY 1, 2017 – DECEMBER 31, 2017 Your donations help us to continue our ministries and to care for the health care needs of our Sisters. Hutton, Matthew Iacovetti-Zurlo, Anna Illingworth, Patricia Jacob, MD, Mercedita Janus, SSC, Bernadette Marie Jendzio, William & Theresa Jeronowitz, Robert Jeronowitz, Robert & Patricia Jesukaitis, Connie Johnson, Nijole Johnson, Stella Jonelis, Anthony Jones, Thomas Jordan, Ronald Jumonville, Preston Juskaitis, Regina Juska-Svoba, Regina Jusko, Olga Kalafut, Mary Kalafut, SSC, Grace Ann Kalupa, LaVerne Kapischke, Marian Kapurch, Rita Karls, Kristi Karpovich, SSC, Marilyn Kaunas, Vanda Kay, Mary Ann Kazlauskas, Algis & Terese Kelley, Stella Kelly, Bernard & Rose Marie Kelly, Dorothy Kelly, Robert & Marilyn Kicherer, Florence Kievert, Robert & Sally Kilkus, Lucille King, Julia King, Arthur Kizelevicus, Raymond & Barbara Klapinski, Frank & Bridget Klein, Harry & Judy Klescewski, Catherine Klimavicius, Rigandas & Milda Kline, Tom Knapp, Mary Konchan, Mark Konwerska, Helen Kopecky, Joyce Kosmerl, Richard & Maureen Kotil, Arlene Kovacic, Geraldine Kozlosky, Paulette w w w. ssc 2601. com
Kozlosky Family Krase, Patricia Krause, Ramona Kripas, SSC, Genevieve Kristy, Robert Kroeck, George & Kathy Krugel, Rev. Stephen Kruszynski, Michaeline Krut, Genevieve Krutkiewicz, Genevieve Kuch, Frederick Kucy, Aldona Kukula, Mary Kutansky, Janice Kuzmickas, Virginia Kwedar, Sharon Kwedar, John Kwiatkowski, Charles & Margaret Labencki, Bernie & Tossie Lake, Ruth Lally, Mary Lane, Margaret Lapenas, Elena Leonaitis, Rita Lerner, Wayne & Sandye Levin, Anne Marie Levonaitis, Raymond Liotine, Joseph Lipperini, Rich & Irene Lipsett, Rose Litvinas, Marie Logue, Neal & Katherine Lopez, SSC, Dolorine Losch, James & Mary Lowery, Michael & Jean Marie Lucas, Walter & Judy Luitkus, Tony & Adele Lunardini, Jeanette Lynn, Wendy MacDonald, Christine Maciora, Joseph MacMurray, Marcia Madden, Virginia Maher, Grace Maina, Roger & Grace Majikas, Vincent Majikas, John & Rosamond Maleiska, Vida Maletz, Jr., Rev. Leo Malley, Catherine Maluska, Genevieve Markunas, Robert & Patricia Markus, Thomas & Ann Martincic, Marie S ist er s
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Martinez, Jr., Donald & Juliana Martus, Bernice Matulioniene, Vida Mauloff, Candace Mavrovic, Lori Mavrovic, Loretta Leleika Mayer, Helene Mazgelis, Elaine Mazgelis & Family, John Mazgelis, SSC, Margaret Mary McAuliffe, Daniel & Kathleen McAuliffe, Kathleen McCarthy, John & Mary Beth McCarthy, Tom & Mary McCole, Catherine McEldowney, Kevin & Patricia McElroy, Dr. Christy McGlone, John McGovern, Aileen McGready, Peggy McInerney, Brian McNeil, Simone McTaggart, Michael & Virginia McTaggart, Steven & Traci McTaggart, SSC, Margaret Meade, Anne Meisl, Denise Mellas, Amanda Mentzer, John Meola, Gertrude Meyer, James Meyer, Susan Michalski, Harry & Patricia Michalski, Lynda Micka, Lillian Mickus, Sheila McDonnell Miernicki, Todd Mikatavage, Mark Miliauskas, Rasa Miliauskas , Stefa Miller, Alyce Mindermann, Henrietta Miscavige, Daniel Molsen, Jr, Nicholas & Mary Margaret Momkus, Vacys & Marguerite Monk, Sr., Roger Moore, Ralph & Germaine Moran, Brenda
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Moroz, Stan & Paula Morris, James & Dorothy Moskal, Christine Mraw, Anne Mueller, Donald & Barbara Mugnaine, Robert & Mary Ann Mullen, Joan Murphy, Bernice & Jim Myszkowski, Maryann Narusis, Regina Narutis, Elvyra Naujokas, Joseph & Joan Naujokas, Richard & Judy Naujokas, Raymond & Therese Naumes, Karen Nauseda, Mary Jane Nauyokas, Donald Navickas, Leona Navickis, Leo Nolan, Mary Lou Nolan, Mary Novak, Frank & Valeria Novick, Marion Oberlin, Barbara Oboy, Joyce Okkonen, Alan Olsen, Gary & Diane Olson, Janice O'Malley & Family, Jennifer Ormond, Mary Clark Ormond, Neal Ortiz, John & Rosamond O'Shea, Anna Belle Oskvarek, Alice Osman, Stanley Ostapina, Doris O'Toole, Michael Ottaviano, Vincent Ouellette, James & Christine Ozelis, Evelyn Pachankis, Lorraine Pakrosnis, SSC, Michaelyn Palos Hills New Horizons Club Palunas, Jadvyga Panek, Joe & Audrey Paprzyca, Sandra Papsis, SSC, Theresa Parkinson, Robert & Betty Paskauskas, Cynthia Pater, Gary & Mary Ann & Family Paurazas, Rev. Peter
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WE PRAY DAILY FOR OUR BENEFACTORS Pavlik-Drap, Sandra Pavone, Anthony Pawlus, Arlene Payne, Renee Pelletier, Phyllis Pempek, Jeanmaire Penkas, Linda & Lisa Perales, Maggie Perales, Maria Perona, Lena Pervenecki, Stanley Petcavage, Thomas & Sheila Pethes, Judith Petrauskas, SSC, Concetta Piegari, Rochelle Pikalek, Patricia Polak Family Politza, Joseph Potocki, Kathleen Powell, William & Paulette Powers, Agnieszka Primozic, Carol Puisis, Joanne Puris, Genevieve Purtill, Donna Pusatera, Eileen Puzek, Margaret Quellette, James Quicho, Nora Quintela, Linda Rackauskas, Ramune Ramoska, SSC, Lourdine Ramoska, SSC, Philip Rapoza, Sandra Rashad, Jamillah Reagan, Sharon Reese, Eleanor Regeski, Peter Rendina, Rita Revinski, Chester Reynolds, Helen Ridick III, George J. Riley, Dalia Roberts, Barbara Robles, Sergio & Edith Rodewald, Clarence & Loretta Rojenches, Helen Rokaitis, Donald Roll, Robert & Marilyn Romanelli, Michael Romanuski, SSC, Deborah Rowan, Thomas & Ann Marie Roza, Virginia Rudzevicius, Joanna Rumishek, Thomas & Marilyn Rumsa, James 6
Ryan, Dennis Ryscavage, Eugene & RoseMarie Sabaliauskas, Joe & Eileen Sacavage, Greg Salgado, Irene & Isidora Sandoval, Christopher Sangpeal, Dorothy Sans, Nancy Sarno, Nicholas & Mary Rose Sarokas, Gertrude Sasgen, Ruth Saulys, Dalia Savickas, David Schenk, Margaret Schiappa, Dr. James & Maria Schmeichel, Leonard & Marian Schnotala, Ruth & Lane Schreier, Susanne Schubring, Carla Schultz, Paula & Bob Schultz, Richard & Alice Schuylkill Area Community Foundation Seastrunk, Kimberly Secor, Margaret Sellman, Kathy Setcavage, James & Dorothy Setinc, Sandra Shah, Dayna Kinnard Sharko, Donald Sharow, Petronella Shedd, Jack & Rae Ann Shinners, Agnes Shirt, Eileen Shotas, Nancy Sinai Health System Skusevich, Doris & Daniel Skwarek, Teresa Slovacek, Leo & Geri Smalarz, Balbina Smalley, Maryann Smilga, Maria Smith, Tim & Namida Smith-Goepfert, Joann Smithson, Mary & John Sobotka, Joseph & Sylvia Sobotka, Michael & Janine Sokas, Rosemary Sokas, Timothy & Regina Sokol, John Soloy, George & Jeanine Solsaa, Sandra Sopron, Stephen Spalla, Anthony S ist er s
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SSC Auxiliary St. Norbert Students Stamper, Jeff & Patricia Stancikas, Helena Stancius, Veronika Stefanos, John Steffen, Denise Strabel, Karen Straiges, Ronald Strolia, Theresa Strom, Thomas Stromquist, Patricia Stuart, J Michael Sturlis, Grace Sublousky, John Sudeikis, Thomas & Christine Sullivan, Michele Swoish, Gerald & Grayce Szumelda, Clarice Szymanski, Frances Tamal, Jack Taran, Steve & Claudia Targosz & Family, Henry Tenbroeck, Frances Teodo, Sr., Paul Tetelbaum, Roberta & Harvey Toczylowski, Casimir Tolish, Ted & Cheryl Tomczuk, Sigita Tong, George & Dorothy Tovar, Madeline Trinco, Bernice Trusiak, Peter & Virginia Tuminello-Mcelroy, Christy Tummala, Kamala Tuzik, Robert Udovic, Rev. Edward Uknalis, Irena Underwood, Mary Ann Underwood, Roger Unterbrink, Larry & Mary Uraski, Sheila Uronis & Family, Richard & Carol Vaicekauskas, Lorraine Valaitis, Carol Valentino, Marie Valenzuela, Mary Ann Valuskas, Edward Vanek, Barbara Vanlent, Eileen Vatch, Steven Veatch, Barbara Vercruysse, Dorothy Vichuras, SSC, Evelyn Villa, Jose & Clare
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Vilutis, James & Rose Vitcavage, Eleanor Vosahlik, Otto Wachsman, Renee Walker, Aldona Walsh, Corinne Walton, Wesley & Jurdis Walton, Grinny Warren, Mary Warus, Karen Wasielewski, Rose Mary Wasik, Geraldine Waskow, Sharon (Cher) Waszgis, Rose Wauhob, Christy Webb, Robert & Mary Wehling, Carla Weiner, Agnes Wellstein, Kerry Corrigan Wellstein, John Welzien, Janice White, Carol White, Joseph & Irene White, Lorita Wild, Paul & Mary Winter, Thomas & Dorothy Wisniewski, Denise Wohlman, Dr. Alan Yasak, Wendy Yenushosky, Daniel Yerkes, Anthony Yerkes, David Yerkes, Michael & Mary Yerkes, Jo Ann Yerkes Family, Paul & Sandra Yerkes, Sr., David Yerkes, SSC, Leandra Yocius, Dominick & Mary Yourey, Jane Zailskas, Aldona Zailskas, Joseph & Mary Zakarka, Julie Zalot, SSC, Margaret Zander, Nannette Zara, Nora Zavaski, William Zebrauskas, Dolores Zelvys, SSC, Lucille Zilliox, Jack & Jean Zimont, Sophia Zinker, Edward Zukoski, Dorothy Zurlo, Anna CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
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Villa Joseph Marie
Middle States Reaccreditation March 19th – March 22nd were the dates set for the Middle States Reaccreditation visit to Villa Joseph Marie. A team of five people representing public, private, and Catholic schools in the state arrived the afternoon of March 19th for a short orientation followed by a tour of the school. That evening the visiting team were met at Maria Hall by representatives of the Villa school family – students, parents, alumnae, teachers, staff, administrators, board members, and Sisters of St. Casimir (Sisters Regina Dubickas, Immacula Wendt, and Margaret Zalot) for informal sharing, a video presentation prepared by students, and a delicious meal. Though the visit was hampered somewhat by snow (March
21st and March 22nd were snow days), all were quick to readjust schedules, and proceeded with interviews and observations at a revised pace. The team was very impressed with the interviews and observations they completed. The end result that Frank Mokriski, team chair and former principal at nearby Our Lady of Good Counsel Elementary School, presented in a summary report to the faculty and staff on the morning of March 22nd was that the Villa would be recommended for reaccreditation for the next seven years. This recommendation reflects positively on the entire Villa community and how they all participated in the accreditation process.
Annual Spring Auction The evening of March 10th, friends and supporters of Villa Joseph Marie arrived at the Philadelphia Ballroom for an enjoyable evening of good food and drink along with over two hundred auction items. The auction echoed the year long celebration with
the theme of this 85th anniversary year: Coming Home. Proceeds from this event directly support the students of Villa Joseph Marie, allowing the advancement of the school’s mission to empower young women through faith, service, and a commitment to educational excellence.
CONTINUED FROM p. 6 BEQUESTS
Thomas W. Dower Foundation Estate of Margaret Flannery Terri Mertz Trust Petronilla Mesec Trust Stancius Living Trust Shalom Trust Vivian Vanaria Trust
The Sisters thank all of their benefactors and apologize for any names that may have been inadvertently omitted.
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Student volunteers at the Auction.
Construction Work at Villa In mid-March, construction work began for the expansion project, which will include the addition of a state-of-the-art, 600-seat auditorium and new 21st century classroom space. S ist er s
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Mother Maria Mass and St. Casimir Feast day MARCH MOTHER MARIA MASS A Mass praying for the beatification of Venerable Mother Maria Kaupas is celebrated in the chapel of the St. Casimir Center every first Saturday of the month. On March 3rd Rev. Lukas Laniauskas, SJ, celebrated the Eucharist and gave a powerful reflection on “hands,” reflecting on the fact that our hands are holy and they are meant to be used to do good. At the end of the
Mass, all were invited to venerate a relic of St. Casimir, whose feast we were celebrating that day, by touching it with their hand, then walk to the sarcophagus containing Mother Maria’s remains in the back of the chapel, and touch the sarcophagus, and leave the chapel remembering to use our hands to serve with love as both Mother Maria and St. Casimir did throughout their lives.
Sister Margaret Petcavage taught Father Lukas' father, Marius Laniauskas, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Cleveland, Ohio. She was his 8th grade teacher and principal. Sister Rita Marie Kerdock ( Sister Luke) was his first grade teacher.
After the March 3rd Mass, friends and supporters of the Sisters gathered for fellowship. Standing from left: Mary Katherine Esposito, Mary Reusz, Sister Virginia Gapsis, Sister Janine Golubickis. Seated from left: Sister Rita Marie Kerdock, Jeanie Ciaccia, Connie Damico and Bob Fitzpatrick.
JANUARY MOTHER MARIA MASS On January 6th Rev. Andrew Liaugminas spoke of the connection between Mother Maria and St. Casimir. “She never forgot her baptismal name, Casimira, and the charity and tireless concern of others lived out by the saint whose name she was given in her Baptism. How often would she pray for the intercession of St. Casimir to aid her in extending a charitable hand to the 8
Lithuanian immigrants coming to America, seeking to start a new life on
new shores while maintaining their identity as a people of strong faith and
Conversations after the January 7th Mass with Rev. Andrew Liaugminas and Sisters (from left): Margaret Petcavage, Virginia Gapsis, Rita Marie Kerdock, Grace Ann Kalafut and Lourdine Ramoska. S ist er s
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family. And when she took on a new name in her religious profession, it was nothing other than that of the Blessed Virgin Mary.” It was a joy for all of us gathered for these Masses to come to know two young priests and to be inspired by their words and the example of their life and enthusiasm for ministry.
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Celebrating National Catholic Sisters Week National Catholic Sisters Week (NCSW) is an annual celebration that takes place from March 8-14, in conjunction with National Women’s History Month. Created to honor women religious, it often includes a series of events that instruct, enlighten and bring greater focus to the lives of incredible women who were often pioneers in responding to the needs of the world around them. The week provides an opportunity to recognize all that Sisters have done for others. Friends and supporters of the Sisters of St. Casimir joined in this celebration of religious life. The SSC employees hosted a special meal and shared community and personal vocation stories at table. Signs hung on doorknobs throughout the administrative wing of the SSCs: “Meet a Sister. Be Inspired.” E-mails and
notes were received by individual sisters from former students and families near and far with their own stories of gratitude. The Maria Kaupas Center (MKC) partnered with Catalys-Maria School (both of which are housed on the former Maria High School campus) to bring Sisters together with children representing all the grade levels at the school, as well as some who regularly participate at the MKC. The children had many interesting questions since for many it was the first time they were encountering Sisters. The young women of Villa Joseph Marie High School in PA, sponsored by the SSCs, sent home made cards and messages to the SSC leadership team. Dennis Ryan, VP for Mission at Holy Cross Hospital, sent an e-mail each day of National Cath-
olic Sisters Week, to the employees of the hospital with pictures and information about religious life in general, the Sisters of St. Casimir, their connection with Holy Cross Hospital, as well as something about the Sisters of Providence of which Sister Laura, Director of Pastoral Care at the hospital, is a member. These were well-received since there are many employees who have not had the opportunity to meet with the Sisters or to know much about our lives. The leadership of Franciscan Village in Lemont, where most of the SSC
community now resides, hosted a special meal for all the Sisters in residence at the village to acknowledge appreciation for the many ways in which Sisters contributed to making the world a better, holier place. On the part of the Sisters, what is most important for them is that people remember, and that God’s call continues to be heard, and that the “yes” is faithfully lived in a world so much in need of healing, love, and compassion.
Sister Dolorine Lopez, Audra Januskiene of "Bravo Bites" and Sister Rose Nakibuuka enjoying the luncheon March 14th at St. Casimir Center hosted by SSC employees and supporters. The event was catered by Bravo Bites.
National Catholic Sisters Week at Catalyst-Maria, Maria Kaupas Center - Sisters Immacula Wendt, Elizabeth Ann Yocius and Margaret Zalot with Scholars in conversations during a question and answer session on March 12th. w w w. ssc 2601. com
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Along the Way
Mother Maria Kaupas Center (Mount Carmel, PA)
During Christmas break for Bucknell University in said, “ It is a gift to the people of Mt. Carmel that these eastern Pennsylvania, the Mother Maria Kaupas Center college students choose to share their talents and time in sponsored its third annual winter service program. The giving service through the MMKC. The spirit of Mothcenter, whose primary mission is to encourage young er Maria is alive and it is through her inspiration that people to live lives of leadership and service to their the lives of many people continue to be touched today.” In appreciation of their 10 days of service to the MMK Church and community, challenged Bucknell students Center, the student volunwho were accepted into the serteers were provided with vice program to look at the world a $300 stipend to provide around them and resolve to work some small assistance in to make things better. pursuing their college edu The program included 11 cation. Catholic students from four parThis year, the center preishes in Mount Carmel and Kulpsented its first Dolores Orzel mont. For 10 non-consecutive Award to one of the winter days, they attended morning Mass service program volunteers, at the center and spent much of Magdalena Callahan, in their time helping others. They recognition of her faithfulperformed tasks at the MMK ness to Gospel values and Center and in their home parstrong leadership skills. ishes and conducted a cemetery The award honors Dolores cleanup.They also sang Christmas Orzel, who retired recently carols with residents in three nursFather Martin Moran, supervisior of the Mother Maria from the J.S. Paluch Coming homes, made homemade soup Kaupas Center in Mount Carmel, presents the Dolores Orzel pany (a Catholic communiand delivered it to homebound Award to Magdalena Callahan, student in the winter service residents, worked on tasks for the program, in recognition of her faithfulness to Gospel values cations and service company in Chicago). Orzel’s lifetime Sisters of Saints Cyril and Metho- and strong leadership skills. of service inspired Rev. Mardius, and visited the Sisters at the tin Moran to establish the Mother Maria Kaupas Center Carmel of Jesus, Mary and Joseph. To qualify for the winter service program, a student in Pennsylvannia. Jake Betz, Executive Director of the center, said, had to complete an application, write an essay on why he “Over the past three years, upwards of 20 separate Buckor she wanted to be in the program, and secure the approval of his or her pastor. Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius, of the nell classes have worked with the Mother Maria Kaupas Sisters of St. Casimir, helped in reviewing the essays. She Center and its partners to enhance community sustainability.”
Cordoba, Argentina
Sister Jeanne Moceyunas (front, right) and a group of women from the "barrio" celebrating the coming of spring at the Friendship Day house. 10
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Sister Elenisa Buzas being interviewed by Inesa Rinkeviciute. A journalism major from the University of Vilnius, Inesa received a grant to study Lithuanian groups in South America.
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Along the Way Mother of Mercy School 75th Anniversary! Avellaneda, Argentina Prior to her death in 1940, Mother Maria Kaupas was arranging to open a parish school in Avellaneda, Argentina, at the invitation of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. Sisters arrived in Argentina in October 1941. They opened Mother of Mercy School, beginning with 15 pupils, in March 1942. When the school celebrated the 75th Anniversary of its founding in November, it included primary and secondary education. While Sisters no longer teach there, the Sisters of St. Casimir in Avellaneda – Asuncion Costantini, Joyce Ann Dopkin, and Nilda Varanauskas – are in close and cordial relationship with the school community. In recognition of the part the Sisters of St. Casimir played in the school’s found-
ing and the administration of Mother of Mercy School until 2000, Father Sebastian Zenoni, MIC, a former student of the school, presented Sister Nilda with a statue of St. Ann teaching our Blessed Mother. Sister Nilda received this token of appreciation in the name of the Sisters who had served as principals, teachers, and catechists over the years. Currently, Mary Rodriguez, a former pupil and an SSC Associate, is the principal of the primary school, while Norbert Plesniak, also an SSC Associate, has recently assumed the position of legal representative of the school.
Sisters Joyce Ann Dopkin, Estela Risso and Nilda Varanauskas with the teachers who worked with the SSCs. w w w. ssc 2601. com
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Along the Way By Christine Bucko I hesitated at first, but this pilgrimage/retreat adventure beckoned. It was heaven on earth. Such great peace, love, and service among the pilgrims, villagers, etc. Several priests and guides said that we were called there – and I believe we were. I learned that Ann Vucic, our guide and interpreter, worked some years ago for Catholic Charities of Chicago. My roommate, Janine Reklaitis, graduated from Maria High School in Chicago. God incidents? We attended the morning English Mass, Adoration, evening International Mass, rosaries, and prayed as we climbed Apparition and Cross Hills. We spent three to four hours in prayer daily! Medjugorje is known as the “confessional of the world,” and we all received the Sacrament of Reconciliation as well. We visited Cenacolo, which is a community for addicts. Sister Elvira has
Pilgrimage trip to Medjugorje
Recently, Catholic Charities of Chicago employee and Sisters of St. Casimir supporter Christine Bucko journeyed to Medjugorje, located in the town of Herzegovina, a region of Bosnia and Herzegovina (close to the border of Croatia), for a six-day pilgrimage, followed by a three-day retreat with stigmatic priest Fr. Zlatko Sudac. Christine shares her experience.
been successfully ministering to these residents using the concept of ora et labora and community to break the cycle of addiction. We heard from visionaries Vicka, Mirjana and Fr. Jozo Zovko – who was the parish priest in Medjugorje when the apparitions began - and Fr. Leon Pereira, chaplain to English-speaking pilgrims in Medjugorje. They
spoke to us about living the messages of our Lady, and said that wars and natural disasters could be stopped with prayer and fasting. Heaven has a plan and needs our response. From Medjugorje, we traveled to the island of Krk in Croatia, to participate in a retreat with Fr. Zlatko Sudac. He stated that he only wanted to be an ordinary priest, but God
had different plans. He received a bleeding cross on his forehead in 1998, and the wounds of Christ on his hands, feet, and side just over a year later. He is known for his powerful preaching and deliverance prayers, and can read souls in the confessional. I loved his talk on contemplative prayer. Words do not do this place justice. One needs to experience it in order to understand the graces and gifts that flow from it. Know that I spent much time in prayer and asked Our Lady, Queen of Peace to bless everyone!
To learn more about making a pilgrimage like Christine’s, visit: www.bit.ly/medjugorje-pilgrimage
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Sisters of St. Casimir Prepare for General Chapter Chapter Prayer
Sister Regina's letterRegina's Sister
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Dear Friends, In the name of all our Sisters of St. Casimir, I invite you to unite with us in prayer as we prepare for our General Chapter which will take place May 1-5, 2018. During these past four years we entered a discernment process unlike any other in the history of our religious congregation as we moved on the recommendations of our last Chapter and made life-changing decisions with regard to our Motherhouse, where we would live, and how we would embrace our core values of spirituality, community, mission, and stewardship in our new reality. Our journey has brought us to the depths of our faith and trust in God and in one another. With courage, generosity of spirit and profound trust in the words of our Foundress, Venerable Servant of God Maria Kaupas, that “God is here...” with us in all the circumstances of our life, we have moved forward on deepening our covenant relationship with the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary of Scranton, embracing a vision for our future together, and faithfully living out our mission for the world in the ways that are possible for us today. Transformed by God’s love and promise for a future full of hope, we see the 2018 General Chapter as a contemplative time of listening to the Holy Spirit and to one another as we continue to deepen our understanding and living out of our call as Sisters of St. Casimir. We are grateful to you for the ways in which you have been part of our lives. May we continue the journey, “Together for a Great Love,” with gratitude for all that has been and with hearts open in love to all that will be. With love and prayers,
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You, O God, are love. You lead us each day to the center of our being, and you lead us to you, our deepest love. Spirit of God, open our hearts to a future full of hope in love for you, for one another, and for our world, as we continue our life’s journey together for a great love. Amen. “Bear the Beams of Love” Artist: Mary Southard, CSJ Courtesy of www.MarySouthardArt.org Congregation of St. Joseph
2018 Chapter Planning Committee preparing for General Chapter May 1-5, 2018. From left: Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius, Sister Theresa Dabulis, Sister Regina Marie Dubickas, Sister Dolores Clerico, SSJ, facilitator, Sister Janine Golubickis, Sister Margaret Zalot and Sister Immacula Wendt.
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St. Norbert School in Northbrook Celebrates its Centennial Having completed 100 years of Catholic education and educated thousands of young people throughout the history of St. Norbert School, it was fitting that this special Centennial Celebration took place on January 27, 2018, on the eve of National Catholic Schools Week. Students, alumni, teachers, former teachers and parents of students gathered in St. Norbert Church for the 5 p.m. Mass with Father Bob Heinz, pastor, as the main celebrant.
Representatives from the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Spirit, the first Sisters to staff the school, and the Sisters of St. Casimir, who staffed St. Norbert from 1955 to 2005, were present for the Mass. Over 120 Sisters of St. Casimir served at St. Norbert at some point during their 44 year history in the school. Sisters Theresa Dabulis (2nd grade teacher), Theresa Papsis (2nd grade teacher), and Margaret Zalot (7th grade homeroom teacher and 7th and
8th grade science teacher) represented the Sisters of St. Casimir at this event. During the evening they were able to enjoy a tour of the school, including Grace Hall, a newly blessed meeting space in the school that was named in honor of Sister Mary Grace Winslow, who was a primary grade teacher there for many years as well as religious education coordinator during her later years. They also had conversations with former stu-
dents, teacher colleagues, and parents of former and current students. All were happy to see the Sisters return to St. Norbert, if only for an evening!
Sister Theresa Papsis, Georgina T. Winters (Mother of two St. Norbert alumni who were taught by a number of SSCs), Sister Margaret Zalot, Father Bob Heinz, Pastor, Patti Whalen (St. Norbert alum and current parent of St Norbert students), and Sister Theresa Dabulis in church before the Mass began.
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At Journey’s End
— Eternal Days Beginning
Sister Regina Sitkus, SSC January 27, 1925 – January 6, 2018 Sister Regina Sitkus (formerly known as Sister Josita) was born to Anthony and Anna Sitkus on January 27, 1925, in Minersville, PA. She and her twin brother were the youngest of their other three siblings. Sister Regina attended St. Francis of Assisi School in Minersville, PA, and Villa Joseph Marie High School in Holland, PA, both of which were staffed by the Sisters of St. Casimir. She said that God’s call to religious life deepened during her years at Villa. In her senior year she left for Chicago, accompanied by Mother Josepha Cizauskas. Sister Regina made her first vows on August 15, 1944. She celebrated three Jubilees of her religious profession: her Silver in 1969, her Golden in 1994, and her Diamond (60 years) in 2004. In one of her reflections, Sister Regina wrote that she advised everyone "to be attentive to God’s call and choose to work in a field that you are happy to be in." Looking at Sister Regina’s life and ministry, she found true happiness in following God’s call to religious life and in over 50 years in the field of education. Sister Regina earned B.S. and M.S. degrees in Education from Marywood College in Scranton, PA. She also completed education in the “Identification and Remediation of Speech, and Learning Disabilities.” Sister Regina began in elementary schools, teaching children in grades 1 through 8 at various times in Nativity BVM School and All Saints School in Chicago, IL; St. Bartholomew School in Waukegan, IL; St. Norbert School in Northbrook, IL; Sacred Heart School in New Philadelphia, PA: St. George School in Shenandoah, PA; St. Joseph School in Scranton, PA; and St. Casimir School in Worcester, MA. Sister Regina’s greatest joy was to be able to return to her home town of Minersville, where she was Principal of St. Francis of Assisi and Holy Redeemer Schools for almost 20 years. It was said that she knew everyone in Minersville and everyone knew her.
An added blessing of being in her home town was that Sister Regina was able to join important gatherings and celebrations of her family, and as she recounted in her memories, “was privileged to accompany seven of my family members on their final journey.” After retiring from full time ministry, Sister Regina taught part time for five years at Good Shepherd Regional Catholic School in Minersville. She then moved to Villa Joseph Marie convent, where she was superior and helped as a substitute teacher. Sister Regina also served on the Board of Directors of Villa Joseph Marie and St. Joseph Home from 1967-1971. At her Diamond Jubilee celebration, Sister Regina reminisced about her life: “As I celebrate 60 years of religious life, I am filled with joy and gratitude for the privilege of serving God, his church, and his people. I consider my religious vocation as the blessing above all blessings.” Sister Regina moved into the Motherhouse in Chicago in 2009 and continued to serve, especially in driving Sisters to their appointments and shopping needs. Her kind and jovial presence, her sense of humor, her love for community, family, and her beloved “East” were an abundant source of blessings for everyone. When the Motherhouse was transferred to Catholic Charities, Sister Regina moved to Franciscan Village. She loved the frequent calls from her nephew, Jerry, and hearing about the family and all those she knew in Minersville. A very special thank you to Jerry and Sister Regina’s family, Sister Lawrence Puishys and Sister Theresa Dabulis, her frequent visitors who cared for her needs, and all who faithfully visited and spent time with Sister Regina, especially in the evening of her life. May our good and gracious God now bring Sister Regina into eternal joy and peace.
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Journeys Sisters of St. Casimir 2601 W. Marquette Road Chicago, IL 60629
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Datesto Remember April 7, 2018
May 1-5, 2018
Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m. SSC General Chapter Commemorating the 78th Anniversary of June 2, 2018 Mother Maria's Death Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m.
No matter where you live, whether it be in places surrounded by calm, peaceful nature, or in modest homes buried among city buildings in the midst of harsh noise and turbulence... I visualize all of you traveling together as communities of faith... And how ardently I wish that our Heavenly Father and his angels and saints might witness real joy among you! I long that they might see us selflessly helping one another with love and zeal. – Mother Maria Kaupas
April 15, 2018
August 25, 2018
SSC Auxiliary Games Day St. Casimir Cente Auditorium Doors open at noon Games begin: 2:00 p.m. More information: 773-349-8060
Founders' Day Mass 111th Anniversary of the SSC Founding Celebration and Missioning, 9:30 a.m.
April 21, 2018
Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m.
SCA-MHS Alumnae Reunion Palos Country Club 11:00-3:00 p.m. More information: 773-925-8686
October 6, 2018 November 3, 2018 All Souls' Remembrance and Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m.
May 5, July 7, August 4, September 1, 2018 No Mother Maria Mass