Franciscan Missionaries of Mary USA Province Then the Spirit Led Jesus

From our archives …

Winter 2008

God’s Holy Light

Snow-covered landscape glistening bright Franciscan Missionaries of Mary USA Province Rain and snow frozen on every tree Volume 45 No.1 Winter 2015 Like diamonds, in a million, sparkling

points of light

Joyful panorama to set our spirits free

Faithful light that grows within me Shining bright through every day and perilous night God’s great Love that calls me to follow The urgings of that gentle light

What gift is this that’s been given to me? What joyful gratitude fills my heart? Calls me to follow wherever He leads In this great drama ‘tis my blessed part.

Though darkness surrounds me Then the Spirit led Jesus I have no fear. into the desert The light grows brighter Matthew 4:I And dries every tear.

I love you my God, my Jesus, my All Great Spirit of Love, come fill my soul Help me to spread the gifts of your Love This is my longing, my only goal… As humans we are preoccupied with our existence and our need for many things in order to be able to keep up with the fashions and trends of our modern world. (On retreat, after a Snowstorm) At the same time there are few, if any, who have not experienced, Mary S. Bayer, fmm at least once in a lifetime, that type of emptiness that conveys the apparent uselessness and nothingness of activity and possessions, as an experience of bleakness, purposelessness and immense futility. In such moments we stand alone and naked before God's countenance, undone of our vanity and vain glory. It is then that we remember that we are earth and will return to earth. Often it is in these moments of extreme emptiness and barren silence that God speaks to the heart to test its values. Thus, when we find ourselves in the desert, it is good to remember that we have the power to direct our feet towards God's holy mountain, From Blessed Mary of the Passion ... with eagerness and attentive to God's Spirit of truth,

who longs to find a home in us so that we may have fullness of life. Lent is indeed the time to unite ourselves more than ever Maria van Galen, fmm to the sorrows of Jesus and His Immaculate Mother.

Customs Book 16 EDITORS’ NOTES YEAR OF CONSECRATE LIFE 2015

Several of us Franciscan Missionaries of Mary attended a Prayer Vigil for Peace that was hosted by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence in conjunction with local Faith Leaders, the RI State Council of CALLED AND SENT: UNIVERSAL MISSION - AS FRANCISCAN MISSIONARIES OF MARY Churches, the Ministers Alliance of RI, the Board of Rabbis for Greater RI, the RI Council for Muslim Advancement, the RI State Police, the Providence Police Dept. and the RI Police Chiefs Association. Being fmm roots itself in both God’s call to Hélène de Chappotin and in the historical, cultural expe- The church was packed with persons of every race, religious beliefs, ministries and employment. The Faith Leaders sat side by side in the sanctuary and participated in proclaiming the Word of God and lead- riences of each woman called. Retracing the experiences of Hélène’s life, we identify already in her ing prayers. The newly elected governor of RI, Gina Raimondo, sat in one of the front benches and was childhood: creativity, fierce capacity to love, attraction to the Poor, deep devotion to the Eucharist greeted warmly by Bishop Thomas Tobin despite their publicized differences on some issues. and Mary, and the capacity to be surprised by God. This latter led to powerful experiences in which she recognized God’s invitation to herself, and eventually, to all who would be called to follow the Present in large numbers were uniformed police officers from State and local stations. Colonel Steven G. fmm life: to offer one’s life for the Church and the salvation of the world. Her yes, and now ours, has O’Donnell, Superintendent, RI State Police and Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety gave sin- woven itself throughout life, always inviting us to enter more fully into the Mystery of God alive in cere concluding remarks that received applause. God’s People, especially the Poor.

The next day, we read Pope Francis’ opening speech to the people of Sri Lanka on his visit there. He said, CALLED AND SENT: UNIVERSAL MISSION “It is a continuing tragedy in our world that so many communities are at war with themselves. The inability AS FRANCISCAN MISSIONARIES OF MARY to reconcile differences and disagreements, whether old or new, has given rise to ethnic and religious ten-

sions, frequently accompanied by outbreaks of violence.” How well we in the USA can relate to this reality! We are constantly called to new inculturations of Pope Francis continued: “Dear friends, I am convinced that the followers of the various religious traditions the fmm charism which require that we live it have an essential role to play in the delicate process of reconciliation and rebuilding which is taking place energetically as well as reinterpret it culturally in in this country.” This statement resonated with what we experienced at the Prayer Vigil for Peace. the context of our many cultures. Being a Francis- can Missionary of Mary roots itself again and We have been celebrating the Year of Consecrated Life in various parishes and here in Fruit Hill. The again in both God’s call to Hélène de Chappotin World Day of Consecrated life will be celebrated February 1, 2015 in the Chapel of Holy Family and in and the historical, cultural experiences of each Lourdes Hall of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary. woman called to this way of life.

Catholic Newsletters are featuring Jubilee celebrations and the histories of Religious communities in their We identify the following characteristics of Hé- respective dioceses. We expect to be requested for the history of our early foundations in the United lène’s childhood: creativity, a fierce capacity to States. Thanks to Sr. Helen McCarron, we have good accounts of our early history. love, an attraction to the Poor, deep devotion to the Eucharist and Mary, and her capacity to be Lots of news to be read in this issue of Sharings. Read on … surprised by God. The latter led to powerful ex-

periences in which she recognized God’s invita- Rosemarie Higgins,fmm, Maryann Alukonis, fmm & Anne Turbini, fmm tion to her, and eventually, to all who are called through the gift of the FMM charism, to offer

one’s life for the Church and the salvation of the Contents Sharings is published at: world. Provincial Communications Office Our deceased, Eulogies...... 3 399 Fruit Hill Ave North Providence, RI 02911 Her yes, and ours, weaves itself throughout life, Birthday 105 . . . … ...... 5 Tel: (401) 353-5804 Ext: 130 Bl. Mary of the Passion always inviting us to enter more fully into the Kitchen Door, Ebola Update ...... 6 Fax (401) 353-8755 Mystery of God alive in God’s People, especially Please send articles either to blessesunfolding... her missionary Las Cruces ...... 7 the Poor. For Hélène this offering led through [email protected] or daughters, which is always [email protected] sufferings that brought her to the brink of surviv- El Paso ...... 8 a reminder of the future al, and to challenges that bore fruits of joy. England ...... 9 unfolding... Stckney ...... 10 Today, the gift of unconditional yes, is part of Franciscan Hospital, El Paso ...... 11 every fmm’s life. The words of Pope Francis, Citizenship, Blizzard ...... 12 Wake up the World, challenge our understanding Toward Chapter, Award ...... 13 NEXT ISSUE: SPRING of how we live this total offering, this uncondi- Chapter Transmission, Thanks ...... 14 tional yes, for God’s People, the Church.

Year of Consecrated Life ...... 15 Mary Motte, fmm Winter ‘08 ...... 16

2 15 Our Deceased Sisters EULOGIES for … I knew that the morning would come quickly and

we would have to prepare to travel back to El Paso. In El Paso Lourdes greeted us and was Rosalie Frances McNaughton, fmm First Province Transmission able to take us to the house. Weary travelers, we chose to return home instead of accepting our sis- following the General Chapter Rosalie was always Rosalie Frances Eleanor ters’ hospitality. It was good to get home. I could Rosalie Frances McNaughton, fmm Stickney, Illinois McNaughton for me. She loved her Confirmation not believe that we had left El Paso on the Friday (Mary of St. Hugh) and returned home on the Sunday. name Eleanor. Often when calling me she would say The lights of the city sparkled like diamonds in the this is Rosalie Frances Eleanor calling! She was my

darkness of the night as we approached O’Hare Born to Eternal Life sister, mentor and friend. But Rosalie was sister, Airport. What a beautiful sight to us who had wait- Nancy Cabral, fmm October 30, 2014 aunt, mentor or friend to all of us. From an early age ed more than four hours for our plane to take off Rosalie was an aspiring dancer and many believed from El Paso. Here we were, five weary travelers that would be her career. However God had other

on our way to the Transmission in Stickney. We plans. Today Rosalie would tell us that sixty-eight had been treated quite well on the plane and were years, one month and nineteen days ago she began thankful for the extra snacks we were given be- her formation as a Franciscan Missionary of Mary cause of our long wait before boarding. Mary Catherine Boudreau, fmm here in Fruit Hill. (M Alodia of the Infant Jesus ) When we landed, Marie and Betty from El Paso However her love of/for dance did not end when she

and Sheila P., Marie-Paule and I were so happy to entered religious life. Many of us have fond memories see our sisters. I went with Sheila L. who drove us Born to Eternal Life of Rosalie being moved by a song or some particular by the highway. She wanted to take us to the cem- December 5, 2014 music and drifting onto the floor, expressing her feel- etery near our house to see the white rock carving ings through dance. It was truly a beautiful sight for of the face of Jesus whose eyes follow the observ- us and a wonderful expression of her joy and love of er. Needless to say this was Halloween night and God. Our Deceased Relatives & Friends it was quite dark. We noticed as our car entered the cemetery that it was being followed by a police All during her religious life, whether in the twelve car. They must have thought that we were there to Louise Dufault, sister of Alma Dufault, fmm years she was in Australia or here in the United play pranks for Halloween. We could not see the States Rosalie was always working with and for oth- carving, but our police escort allowed us to exit in Maryann Mitchell, aunt of Anne Dundin, fmm ers as a social worker or in some form of FMM lead- peace. ership. She had the gift of bringing out the best in Debra Griffin, sister-in-law of Mary Griffin, fmm others and encouraging all to use their God-given

Finally we were all at our convent in Stickney and gifts and talents. greeted as only our sisters can. Food and wel- Sr. Mary Mark Pizzotti, DM, who served on the Board comes were abundant. We were once more of Franciscan Hospital for Children for many years. As I read through Rosalie’s file I was not surprised shown around the house and were happy to see Thank You! at her written answer to the question: “What are your our rooms. Our sisters showed us the breakfast Annette (Huot) Kelley whose life was characterized by special interests?” Her answer was: “God and peo- essentials and most of us said “Good night.” The service to others, especially to her family, friends, and ple.” Our Foundress, Blessed Mary of the Passion, next day we picked up the folders from the table With my nieces and nephews I want to thank all of to the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary. Along with her once wrote, “If I possess, if I see and if I love God and were ready to begin a day of work and infor- you who have offered sympathy, prayers and brother Jerry and his wife Rita, she was one of many within me, I will be consumed by the desire that He mation. We were shown slides of the chapter and Masses for the repose of the soul of my sister faithful volunteers to us Franciscan Missionaries of be, that I see Him and that I love Him, in all creatures. the many sisters whom we knew. It was good to Louise who died peacefully on January 4 in her Mary at Fruit Hill, N. Providence. After all, this is the desire for heaven, and it is in us see Susanne and our new Mother General Fran- home in Albuquerque, NM. She will be buried in by grace. Resolution: I will make my life a prayer. coise. The day went by very quickly, but we were the Veterans' cemetery in Santa Fe in February, Eileen Simmons McKenna, former program director at I will possess God. I will see Him, I will love Him with- able to go to Mass in the church. It was very nice where my brother Joe and his wife are also. I like Camp St. Helene, and friend of FMMs since 1940’s out ceasing …” (NS 14) This was truly Rosalie’s man- because it was All Souls’ Day. They read the to think that her deep love for the fmm continues. tra: to love God without ceasing. It was so evident in names of the persons who had died during the Brian Strother 32 year old nephew of Elfreide her prayer life and in her relationships with others. year, and as the people were mentioned, the Jackson, fmm Alma Dufault, fmm Rosalie’s life also exemplified these words of Blessed church bells tolled. It was a lovely way to remem- Mary of the Passion: “The one who has the most love ber the dead. Our Sick Friends has the first place; the more one is in the service of God and neighbor, in love and charity, the more one

When we got back to our convent we were able to destroys self-love and the more one becomes self- Ted Gavriluk brother-in-law of Joyce Gardella, fmm see a movie about one of our houses closing. I less.” (NS 49) Rosalie’s ministries always involved

bowed out and chose the bed instead of the movie. helping others to become the persons God wanted Vera Cole, long-time monthly benefactor them to be. She had a great capacity to listen, to

give advice, direction and most of all love and en- Michelle Gardner, niece of Claudette Simard, fmm 14 couragement. Rosalie always had a supportive, 3 upbeat attitude because she knew God was with her. Mary. It was Cathy’s deep love of God and her faith FORWARD MARCH TO THE CHAPTER ... cooperation, not competition. Offer specific goals. It was God speaking through her. So many of us that gave her the strength and courage to respond to Be trusted, responsible, capable. Embrace the op- have been helped by our dear Rosalie with perhaps a God’s call. I think these words of our foundress, IN COLLABORATION position mind-set, don't dominate, make creativity word, a smile or just her listening ear and heart. I Blessed Mary of the Passion, express Cathy’s desire possible. Let there be no power distance between would like to share this poem written by Jessica Pow- to become a Franciscan Missionary of Mary: “God will Sheila Lehumkuhle visited us at 97th St. post her yourself and everyone else. Be able to take the ers, known in religious life as Sr. Miriam of the Holy be the origin of my love, Jesus will be the burning experience in Rome. She was full of spirit and life liberal and conservative and make a decent pro- Spirit, a Carmelite nun. center, Mary the source by which I will be given to Je- and summed it all up in just one posal. Relationships are more important than your sus, to the Church, to souls.” (NS: 18) word: collaboration. touchy pride. You have to take off the armor to The Will of God After her Final Profession Cathy began her studies at build strong bonds. As for those who consistently Lois Pereira gave us the transmis- St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Brighton, Massachusetts to refuse to play by the rules, exile them. Have the Time has one song alone. If you are heedful sion and the house visitation in Jan- become a nurse and completed her Bachelor’s De- guts to marginalize radicals who refuse to play by and concentrate on sound with all your soul uary. That word, collaboration, came gree at Boston College. Cathy was missioned to the rules.” you may hear the song of the beautiful will of God, up often and did so in Sue’s letter St. Francis Hospital in Roslyn, NY and later was mis- soft notes or deep sonorous tones that roll and the chapter document 2014. sioned to Indonesia where she continued her ministry So let us march forward to the chapter in collabora- like thunder over time. Between these two visits of Sheila in nursing. Cathy was missioned back to the United tion. Working with others, to do a task, to achieve Not many have the hearing for this music, and Lois, the New York Times ran States and had some mission experiences other than shared goals. Cooperation to seek solutions ad- and fewer still have sought it as sublime. an article, "the unifying leader,” by nursing. Her ministry in California took a different vantageous to all. Share your abilities, creativity, David Brooks, which ended with the- turn. She met up with the Indonesian community who craft, courage, discipline, devotion, discernment, Listen, and tell your grief: But God is singing! se words: “We need a renewed appreciation soon became an important part of her life. Through energy, enthusiasm, emotion, intelligence, imagi- God sings through all creation with His will. for the art of collaboration.” this group Cathy found herself in charge of an RCIA nation, inventiveness, passion, perseverance, pa- Save the negation of sin, all is His music, group - a totally new mission experience for her and tience, skill, sweat, tears and tantrums. And we will even the notes that set their roots in ill When I shared this at our discussion, Lois said to as she told me - one that intimidated her. These be astonished at our accomplishments, as we pour to flower in pity, pardon, sweet humbling. write it up for Sharings to heighten our awareness. words of Mary of the Passion seem to say what Cathy out our gifts and share our talents and radiate our Evil finds harshness of the rack and rod And so, I make a humble effort to comply with Lois' was experiencing at that time: “Let us leave the Lord graces. Oh! What a joy to behold you are! How in tunes where good finds tenderness and glory. request. of the harvest perfectly free to do with each one of us God has blessed you! How fortunate we are to

what He sees to be best. In this abandonment to the have you in community. We need you, want you, The saints who loved have died of this pure music, To get back to David Brooks, I thought worthy of Holy will of God we shall find the spirit of the Gospel love you, appreciate you. You do make a differ- and no one enters heaven till he learns, mention: and consequently of St. Francis; we shall understand ence. A big one. deep in his soul at least, to sing with God. “Problems are too complex. We need a team to the meaning of our missionary vocation; we shall ob- come up with solutions. Create a culture of tain the courage of the Apostles and draw down upon Maureen Conway, fmm (The Selected Poetry of Jessica Powers ourselves the all-powerful blessing of God by means edited by Regina Siegfried, ASC & Robert F. Morneau, p. 19) of which we can accomplish His work.” (MD: 137). I think, for Rosalie, we could change the last line to read Cathy was missioned back to the East coast in 2000 “deep in her soul at least to dance with God.” and spent the next eleven years in our community at The Herbert W Bolles Life Achievement Award St. Francis Hospital. Cathy did some volunteer work Rosalie told me long ago - and I am sure she shared at the Reception Desk in the hospital and also an- Sr. Mary was recognized as a member of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, an international this with others - that the first thing she planned to do swered the telephone in the convent. During this time missionary community - Roman Catholic tradition ... engaged in research on the FMM charism and when she reached heaven was to dance with Jesus. Cathy experienced some major health issues and in in Mission Theology and Research: writing , planning, formation on the emerging trends in mission If we close our eyes we can see Rosalie dancing the 2011 she was missioned to our Assisted Living Resi- in collaboration with other missionary institutes and with ecumenical partners. day away with Jesus!!! dence here at Fruit Hill, joining Queen of Peace Community. This year as Cathy’s health continued to

Lois Pereira, fmm be challenged and deteriorate she was missioned to Ein Karin community with residence at St. Antoine’s.

When I spoke with Cathy recently she told me she lived a full and rich life and was now waiting for God’s final call. On December fifth she heard God’s call Mary Catherine Boudreau, fmm and responded with a heart full of love. L-R: Dr. Don Anderson, Executive of the Rhode Island State Council of Churches,

In reading through some of Cathy’s writings I came Sr. Mary Motte, fmm award recipient, and On December 12, 1945 Mary Catherine Boudreau across something that sums up just how Cathy saw Dr. Bestsy Garland, President of the RI State began her formation as a postulant here at Fruit Hill. herself and I quote: “But the main thing I wish to ac- Council of Churches. The award: The Herbert Cathy was born in Salt Lake City, Utah where, at that complish is to work together with God in order that I W Bolles Life Achievement Award was given at time, Catholics were very few. However, God had will become the very special person God envisioned the Heroes of Faith 5th Annual Breakfast. plans for her, and God’s plans brought her, at the me to be when He first created me. Perhaps this age of eighteen, to the Franciscan Missionaries of poem-prayer that I composed will say it better. 4 13 Did you ever come across an old piece of silver, Its beauty hidden beneath tarnish and In our congregation as said by MMP, " OUR HOME- WELCOME TO THE AMERICAN FAMILY layers of dust? LAND IS THE WHOLE WORLD" and in the Letter of Did you want to see it be refined, St. Paul to the Ephesians, "You are no longer strangers Its old beauty restored? "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the Then I thought of myself like that old piece of silver.. are created equal, that they are endowed by their holy ones and members of the household of God... ." Down through the years, I, too, have acquired bits of Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among ‘tarnish and dust.’ these are Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness." To uphold my rights and responsibilities, the next day Yet there is still some of God’s beauty I registered as a voter and elected my candidates, to buried beneath. Declaration of Independence fulfill my active and engaged participation in my com- I know the beauty is there because God put it there munity. in the beginning. October 21, 2014 was a day I was honored and con- gratulated as becoming a Naturalized Citizen of the I am now a part of this precious history and this Na- God entrusted my life to me. Sr. Helen Klumpp, fmm United States of America. When I made my OATH tion is now my Nation. As the incumbent President It was a gift, a gift to be loved and cared for CEREMONY we were 141 participants of 43 nations. Barack Obama's message to us and returned. 105th Birthday The District Judge reminded us that as a Naturalized Like the silver, it often means some cleaning has Citizen we are an important part of our great democ- "We embrace you as a new citizen of our land, and to be done. racy, bringing a wealth of talent, ability, and charac- we welcome you to the American family." Some acquired parts will have to be destroyed. On January 30th, Sr. Helen Klumpp celebrates her ter to this nation. Upon taking the Oath of Allegiance, Some will be transformed. 105th birthday. She is still alert and does not need we claimed for ourselves the God-given unalienable Love will do both. glasses to read! In her earlier days she was an ac- rights the Declaration of Independence sets forth as Alicia Alambra, fmm complished violinist and dancer. The Charleston a natural right to all people. The polishing, scraping and fire may be painful. was her favorite dance! Bishop Thomas Tobin In the letting go of what must be done away with, greeted her on a recent pastoral visit to St. Antoine’s Since the world foundation, we are all immigrants, God and I will work together. Residence. More celebrations will follow. we live and travel from one country to another full of He has my ‘yes.’ and for the rest… hope for a brighter future. At this point in time, I am I will never doubt the transforming power of here in the United States of America to fulfill my mis- God’s grace. sion. Each country has its own privileges and re- BLIZZARD 2015 And when the refining is finished, sponsibilities. The democratic principles, ideals, lib- Transforming complete, erties and civic values which we uphold here, are Here in Fruit Hill we weathered the Blizzard of And beauty released, also the same we upheld and cherished in my coun- January 27, which found many of us hunkered down My dream will be… try Philippines. safely in Lourdes, De Chappotin, Bethany, Holy Family, Trinity and Queen of Peace communities. That in the end, Some of our essential staff stayed overnight and I will stand before God in all my beauty, transformed, Landscapers and Maintenance staff plowed roads all all bright and shining night so as to keep up with the blowing snow. Some So that when God looks at me, He also see His own found staying put inside a “mini vacation” that ena- image reflected back. bled catching up with reading and household and God smiles, opens His arms, other computer related tasks. Continuous updates And I am bathed in love. and instructions by elected officials cautioned people This is my dream to stay off the roads so that proper plowing could be Sr. Mary Catherine Boudreau, FMM done and lives saved. Wonder of wonders these in-

structions were obeyed. Surely when Cathy appeared before God, Heaven

was glowing with Cathy’s beauty as it reflected the

Many of us recalled vividly the infamous Blizzard of God whom she loved all her life. Dear Cathy may

1978 that crippled the New England States and led you rest in the peace you have truly earned.

to many deaths. Because of excellent communica-

tions, swift action and past experience all went well Lois Pereira, fmm with no accidents nor loss of life.

Sr. Alicia Alambra, FMM at the US District Court

Northern District of Illinois (See page 16 for Winter 2008 …)

12 5 he had been a sailor in the Italian navy and would The house is very lively and there are now many Beatrice Costagliola belongs to a writers’ group, describe foreign ports that she never dreamed ex- comings and goings by bus and train. Grace and faith was in the FHFC team that was and wrote this story based on true facts. She isted. responsible for Ricky. A very difficult situation was would like to share it with others. In addition to these changes and our regular work described for me and I saw a group of profession- The summer gave way to fall and the leaves turned and activities, we have been busy with invitations als take on his case. They knew they were going to into pendants of red, brown and gold. In January from the parish and beyond. In October, Bea, get the right situation for Ricky, and they did. It was Karl wrote about the bitter Minnesota winter. Read- Margaret, and I attended the Catholic Council of my impression that they were going to have to ing his description of the deep snow sent a shiver Women’s annual breakfast. It was a pleasure to work miracles to get this done, but they formulated My grandmother was supposed through Maria. As spring approached his letters be with Catholic Women from parishes all over the a game plan and calmly executed it. Even though I to go to MN … became more urgent. “Maria,” he wrote, “Hurry up diocese. It was also an opportunity for us to greet felt the situation was dire, there was no panic in and start packing. There is a lot of work to be done and offer our thanks and appreciation to Francis anybody’s demeanor. They do this all the time I here on the farm!” Cardinal George shortly before his retirement. He reflected. Wow! always has always spoken with great clarity and Then, one lovely morning in May, when the lilacs sincerity and has been much respected in the arch- were blooming outside the back door, Michael diocese. THE KITCHEN DOOR Lubrano, the green grocer, arrived with the usual cabbages, potatoes, lettuce and strawberries along Happily, Kim Anh and Stella arrived in time to join Maria Fredlund smiled as she read the letter for the with a fragrant nosegay. And there, at the kitchen us for a dinner and live theatre offered to all the fifth time and then folded it and tucked it into her door, he proposed to the pretty Swedish lady with sisters of the archdiocese by the generous Catholic apron pocket. It was from her fiancée, Karl Larson, the light blue eyes. She smiled and said “Yes” and family who owns the venue. As per the wishes of a farmer in Minnesota. Karl had emigrated in 1876 that is how it came about that my Swedish grand- their grandfather and founder of Drury Lane, the Our Bishop Mark Seitz invited all the religious of from the same small town in Sweden where she mother never did board the train to Minnesota. family continues to offer this free event to all the the Diocese of El Paso to come together last Sun- had grown up. Now, two years later, she was em- sisters of the archdiocese annually. This was the day for a couple of hours. ployed as a live-in cook and maid for a wealthy Beatrice Costagliola, fmm first time that we participated. We saw Camelot At the end of our shared and enjoyed it immensely. time, one of the Sisters in- lawyer’s family in Providence, Rhode Island. If all went well she would have enough money to com- vited us to pick a folded plete her trousseau and join Karl in a few months Finally, I invite you to keep in your prayers some piece of paper from the time. Then they would be married in the small young women we have encountered on their jour- plate she was passing Lutheran church near his home. EBOLA UPDATE ney in the past few months and who are seeking around. On mine was writ- out God’s will for their lives. Their names are Mag- ten: "Eres allegria para el The backdoor bell rang and roused her from her News about the Ebola Outbreak can be viewed on dalena, Rosalie, Jessica, and Jessie. Thank you mundo,” the words of reverie. Brushing back a wisp of light brown hair our web site www.fmmusa.org. The news is more for your continued prayers and activities to bring Pope Francis to the reli- from her forehead, she opened the kitchen door. hopeful and our Sisters in Liberia are safe. Sisters' God’s word into the lives of others. May we all gious of the world: "You are It was Eddie, the butter and egg man who came names and description of each person's ministry continue to pray for one another. joy for the world." I was the winner of the water jug punctually every Tuesday morning. On Friday, can be viewed on our website. handmade by the Tarahumaras, the indigenous Willie, the fish monger would arrive with his “fresh Sheila Lehmkuhle, fmm people of the Sierra de Chihuahua. On the other catch” and on Saturday she would welcome Dr. Tim P. Flanigan gave a presen- side of the jug are the words "Year of the Conse- crated Life: 2015.” What a surprise! What a joy to Michael, the Italian, who arrived with his horse and tation to Sisters at Fruit Hill about wagon to deliver garden produce and fruit. his 2 month experience in Liberia have this sacred vessel in our little chapel!...a daily dealing with the Ebola outbreak. reminder to "Be joy for the world.” The summer days slipped by with more letters from Dr. Tim Flanigan is an infectious Karl who proudly boasted that he had bought a disease specialist with Miriam Hos- Betty Keegan, fmm sizeable plot of land and now possessed his own pital and the Brown medical school Franciscan Hospital for Children sugar beet farm. Maria had no opportunity to enjoy and is also a church deacon. He volunteered with the July and August social events that her mistress the Catholic Church's Ebola response team spend- chatted about with her friends in the front parlor. ing three months collaborating with our Sisters in Gloria Carpinello, fmm shared that “one of our They were the regattas in Newport, the summer training health-care workers and helping to re-open Seminarians, who has been an intern with Pastoral balls and the concerts in the park. Her lot was a Catholic hospital in Monrovia, the capital of Libe- Care and part of the Team, reflected on his experi- simply a monotonous round of cleaning, washing ria. Each meeting that he attended began with a ence at Franciscan Hospital for Children with one and cooking. The arrivals of Eddie, Willie and Mi- prayer. Amid the raging Ebola epidemic, God was of our patients …” chael were three bright spots that punctuated her always prevalent. Tim's video presentation can be rather dull existence. Their small talk about local obtained from our communications office. Just re- Where was grace and faith in this experience for me? events animated her mornings and fired her imagi- quest it!

nation. Michael, the handsome Italian with the big moustache, was especially entertaining as formerly

6 11 On January 4th, we joined our sisters at St. Gabriel over the country. And, vocation conference or not, Las Cruces, NM media by the “Tortugas Indians"…The tribe has community to celebrate together the Birthday of it seems that everywhere I go I meet people who been known in the past as the "Pueblo Indians of our Institute. As we picked up our countries to pray have worked with or replaced Sr. Bea down in El A COLORFUL ANNIVERSARY Las Cruces", "Los Inditos de Las Cruces" and “San for and our Patrons for the New Year, we were Paso! The Convocation lasted 4 days and includ- Juan de Guadalupe Tiwa". In 1998, the tribe for- grateful to God, for the past; we enjoyed the pre- ed three keynote speakers – Sr. Colleen Mary Mal- What’s so special about a parish anniversary? mally incorporated as a non-profit corporation un- sent; and we have looked with hope into the future. lon, O.P, Fr. Bernhard A. Eckerstorfer, O.S.B, and How about COLOR? How der the name "Piro-Manso-Tiwa Tribe of Guada- On the last day of my staying in Cold Ash, we wel- Sr. Theresa Rickard, O.P. – as well as many many parishes have at least lupe Pueblo". comed Sr. Marie Therese, the UK Provincial break-out sessions, liturgies, and vendors’ stands 150 Native Americans in var- th among us; it was good to be together. On January to peruse. The talks were realistic, inviting and ious styles of tribal dress Each year on December 12 , for the feast of Our 6th, I returned to the Institute of St. Anselm to con- hope-filled, with many citations from the Holy Fa- (and headdress) dance sol- Lady of Guadalupe, the parish dance troupes per- tinue my program. ther. The speakers asked us to question ourselves emnly and reverently in front form their stunning and yet very solemn and rever- with “What is the energy and life of our communi- of the church before Mass -- ent dances. (See the You Tube video of the 2008 I am grateful to God for every ty?;” to recognize what God has done in Jesus and to introduce the procession performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch? day that God has given me the power of the Holy Spirit - that we are each of bishops, friars, priests, v=lc9o8f39TeQ). This is preceded by an all-night here. It has been a time of called to cooperate fully in the life and action of the and people to the celebra- vigil and climb up the nearby “A” mountain, to imi- wonder in so many different Holy Spirit; and finally that the Resurrection is the tion? How many parishes tate St. Juan Diego’s pilgrimage to Tepeyac Hill in ways. Also, my appreciation good news that we are called to share as commit- have a full hour of colorful Mexico. goes to all those who made ted, confident people, rooted in the reality of the dances performed th my stay here passible. Gospel. A 30-minute video with some excerpts of after Mass by these colorfully clad parish groups? The 100 anniversary of the parish was something the speakers is available on YouTube. It is entitled different and outstanding, however. It was attend- Greetings of Peace and Love Highlights from the 2014 NRVC Convocation in On Saturday, October 25, 2014, Our Lady of Gua- ed by Bishop Cantu, Bishop Emeritus Ramirez, to all of you dear Sisters Chicago. All of their talks were current, concrete dalupe Parish in Tortugas Pueblo (Las Cruces) various Franciscan friars and priests of the dio- in the USA and UK Provinces. and well worth viewing. celebrated its 100th anniversary, prepared for lov- cese, and many people from the parish and dio- ingly for a full year! Like most New Mexico parish- cese. Visiting Conventual friars included the Minis- May the Blessing of the es, this one is bilingual English and Spanish, but ter Provincial from Indiana, Fr. James Kent, OFM Almighty God be upon you! what makes it rather special and unique is that a Conv., a friar recently re- large number of the parishioners are Native Ameri- turned from his mission in United in Christ, can. The parish history is closely entwined with the Russia, and four former Fran- Malgorzata (Gosia) Bukowska, fmm culture of the local pueblos. ciscan pastors of the parish. The latter included Fr. John

An online article on the historical background of this par- Curran, OFM Conv., the first ish can be found at http://thepiromansotiwatribe.com/ Franciscan to come there in history.html. the 1980’s. Though he has LIFE IN STICKNEY not been well, he came all To quote some excerpts from it: the way from the Tigua parish in El Paso’s old mission. He Greetings sisters. It is good to share with you all The Piro-Manso-Tiwa Tribe of Guadalupe Pueblo, spoke to Sr. Nancy and me of that has been going on in our growing community of Las Cruces, New Mexico is the only organized his great appreciation to Sr. of St. Pius X in Stickney, IL. American Indian Tribal group descended from the Marie Cinotti, FMM for visit- First of all, it was good to The growth spurt in the community began on De- Pueblo Indians of the Guadalupe Mission of Paso ing him in the hospital and see all of you at the trans- cember 17 when we welcomed Sr. Kim Anh, the del Norte (present Cd. Juarez)… During the subse- also for sending him “Sharings” to keep up on missions of the General first of two Vietnamese FMM coming to study at quent decades, they were joined by other Pueblo FMM news. Chapter. It was a joyous Benedictine University in Lisle on a full scholarship. Indian families from Paso del Norte [after the 1680 celebration everywhere She came to us after spending 1½ years in Cana- Pueblo Revolt further north which drove out the During the beautiful Mass, which was celebrated Lois and I went. We felt the da. She, therefore, had some transitioning to do Christian Tiguas]… outdoors in the baseball field (since the church welcome and the excite- from French to English, but her English is great. would have been too small), the eldest parishioner, ment from everyone who Then came Sr. Stella, a Poor Clare Ugandan sister The history of the ancestors of the present Piro- age 100, came up in a wheelchair to present gifts had followed the chapter so who entered and has been working as a school Manso-Tiwa Tribe begins with the indigenous infor the Offertory. Bishop Cantu also installed the closely with the help of our teacher in Spain for the past 12 years. She is stay- habitants of the Mesilla Valley, the Manso Indians. new pastor, Fr. Valentine Jankowski, OFM Conv. modern means of communication! ing with us while she does her CPE (Clinical Pasto- These were the people that the first Spanish ex- Then the parish deacon, secretary, Parish Council, ral Education) studies at Rush University Hospital. plorers found living in the Las Cruces area. Their and members of the Foundation came up to ex- In addition to traveling for transmissions, the month This is the same hospital where Margaret just com- principal village, Rancheria Grande, was situated press their support and collaboration to the new of November included for me the NRVC (National pleted her first unit of CPE studies. Finally, Janu- near the present day Las Cruces… pastor. The choir sang and played magnificently

Religious Vocation Conference) bi-annual convo- ary 11 brought the arrival of Sr. Minh Huong, direct th during this bi-lingual English and Spanish celebra- cation here in Chicago. It was a great time to get from Vietnam. She also comes with very good [By the 20 century] the Pueblo Indians of Las Cru- tion, and for the procession back to the church, together with different vocation directors from all English to begin her studies with Kim Anh. ces had disappeared from the public conscious- each tribal group came up in turn to bow reverently ness and were replaced in the popular mind and 10 to the bishop. 7 As the 24th of December arrived and the house Sr. Nancy Cabral and I attended and we had front GREETINGS FROM ENGLAND - was ready, our guests started to come one by one. seats both for the Mass and for the delicious Where the Strangers All of us desired to spend noonday meal that followed the dancing. We also Christmas in peace, joy, and went into the church to sit down for a short while be- Become a Family… prayer. Some of us lonely, tween events, and there we saw the impressive some of us coming from bro- cleaning and renovations done, including brand new A DYING MOTHER'S WISH At the end of Septem- ken relationships, some of us pews and comfortable, cushioned seats! longing for companionship and EL PASO, TX ber of 2014, I arrived at the Institute of St. An- friendship, older and younger, During the meal, hand-made mementos of the day with open hearts and smiles were sold, including ceramic reproductions of the selm in Cliftonville, Last week a young girl asked Kent, UK and have be- on our lovely faces, we sat original church, cards, and Christmas ornaments por- if she could get married in together at the Christmas ta- traying the event. Large plaques showed photos of gun the one-year Diplo- our hospital (Las Palmas). ma Program in Human ble. We shared meal – we the original land grant and an early survey of the lo- Her Mother was one of our shared love. In the late even- cal area. The bishops with priests sat on a platform in Development, Leader- very sick patients who daily ship, and Community ing, we joined St. Gabriel com- front; they and the present and former pastors of the received the Eucharist. She munity for carolling and the Christmas Eve Eucha- parish were each presented with a triptych framed Building. The Program involves some academic said it was her Mother's wish studies and a lot of practical and experiential rist. United around the Table of the Lord, in all our picture of the old church, newer church, and the anni- that she could see her humility and simplicity, we welcomed the new-born versary logo. Then all were invited to eat some of knowledge in the field of psychology, human devel- daughter married before she opment, leadership and community building. The Child Emmanuel, God with us. There was a lot of the anniversary cake - which was a very large sheet died. This young girl had her joy and peace all around us and in us. cake topped by a cake replica of the early mission! Program is set in the context of a diverse religious wedding date set for Septem- community. The twenty four students that came for The day ended with an afternoon procession of the ber. However, to fulfill her Christmas day was filled with sunshine. Once image of Our Lady of Guadalupe back to the chapel, the fall semester were from Asia, Africa, Europe Mother's wish, she wanted to have it as soon as and North America. Our diverse and multicultural again, we gathered together to pray and to cele- and everyone left with fond memories! possible. I quickly spoke to Fr. Matta, and every- brate. It was an amazing experience … to see how community living is a wonder and a challenge. We thing came into play. Since they had such a big are all children of God... we are all unique in the “total strangers” were becoming a family…! In Sheila Patenaude, fmm family, (there were around 60 people coming) the our beauty… we all deal with a lot of pains and the evening, when the night was silent and holy, wedding was to take place in the hospital cafeteria. problems… we all have a great potentiality for we sat together around the joyfully twinkling Christ- I told the girl how unselfish and big hearted she was love and good. Through our studies, personal and mas tree. Fr. Daniel invited us to briefly share our to give up her wedding dreams and settle for a hos- group works, liturgy, and daily living, we are jour- stories. As the night was slowly deepening so were pital cafeteria. She quickly said, "All I want is to neying together into a deeper self-understanding, the stories, - stories of love, loss, pain, betrayal, have my Mother there.” Her Mother's hospital room self-awareness, self-acceptance, and appreciation longing, tears, searching, and hope! Sitting in si- became the "dressing room" where everyone was of our lives and our human history. We came here lence… listening, we witnessed to the miracle of getting ready for the wedding. The patient was as strangers… and over the time, we became a Christmas happing in us and around us… the mira- brought down to the cafeteria in her hospital bed, family… cle of God becoming one of since she was too weak to go in a wheelchair. She us! In the darkness of the looked lovely with her new wig (she had lost all her The fall semester ended on December 18th. During night, we have seen the hair due to the chemo). The bride had a gorgeous the Christmas break, I was helping our sisters at Light! No one wanted to bridal gown, and the groom looked handsome in his the FMM Retreat Centre in Cold Ash. Cold Ash is a move and to break the won- suit. The ceremony was brief but so meaningful village located in a beautiful, hilly, and green coun- der that surrounded us…! and heartwarming. The Mother gave them both her try site. Green forests, pastures, and gardens sur- That night was really holy as blessing from her bed. She looked tired but happy. round our FMM home. The views from my fourth the strangers became a The bride's cousin then sang a touching love song floor window were spectacular; I often admired the family, - a family reborn in for them. It was more meaningful since this cousin rising sun and the starry nights. In Cold Ash, we Christ! The following day, was blind. There were many tears flowing from all have two communities: St. Gabriel community, our celebration continued the guests. A reception followed including the brid- which is our Infirmary, and the Retreat Centre until the parting time came. al dance, and the cutting of the cake. Today, five community. With joy and sadness, we said our good-byes… days later, this loving Mother went home to God and I'm sure with a grateful heart that her daughter There were five of us working as a team: Fr. Daniel After the Christmas celebrations, Fr. Daniel, OFM and son-in-law fulfilled her dying wish. OFM, our sisters Kumari and Romana, Luciana and sister Kumari took some days of rest. So, I (FMM friend) and I. My assignment was simple – to was taking care of the farm. Early in the mornings, as the white fog was rising over the valleys, I was Marie Cinotti, fmm be at the service of others. So, for the first days, I feeding the ducks, geese, chicken, turkeys, pigs, was doing what I like the most – cleaning the pigeons, and wild rabbits. I was laughing looking at house, setting Christmas decorations, and prepar- the geese taking bath in a small basin; I admired ing our Home for the long awaited guest – Jesus, and our dear guests – the Christmas group coming the ducks doing some “figure skating” on a frozen to the Retreat Centre. pond and the “Mr. Rooster” proudly walking around 8 his chicks. The days were passing too fast. 9 As the 24th of December arrived and the house Sr. Nancy Cabral and I attended and we had front GREETINGS FROM ENGLAND - was ready, our guests started to come one by one. seats both for the Mass and for the delicious Where the Strangers All of us desired to spend noonday meal that followed the dancing. We also Christmas in peace, joy, and went into the church to sit down for a short while be- Become a Family… prayer. Some of us lonely, tween events, and there we saw the impressive some of us coming from bro- cleaning and renovations done, including brand new A DYING MOTHER'S WISH At the end of Septem- ken relationships, some of us pews and comfortable, cushioned seats! longing for companionship and EL PASO, TX ber of 2014, I arrived at the Institute of St. An- friendship, older and younger, During the meal, hand-made mementos of the day with open hearts and smiles were sold, including ceramic reproductions of the selm in Cliftonville, Last week a young girl asked Kent, UK and have be- on our lovely faces, we sat original church, cards, and Christmas ornaments por- if she could get married in together at the Christmas ta- traying the event. Large plaques showed photos of gun the one-year Diplo- our hospital (Las Palmas). ma Program in Human ble. We shared meal – we the original land grant and an early survey of the lo- Her Mother was one of our shared love. In the late even- cal area. The bishops with priests sat on a platform in Development, Leader- very sick patients who daily ship, and Community ing, we joined St. Gabriel com- front; they and the present and former pastors of the received the Eucharist. She munity for carolling and the Christmas Eve Eucha- parish were each presented with a triptych framed Building. The Program involves some academic said it was her Mother's wish studies and a lot of practical and experiential rist. United around the Table of the Lord, in all our picture of the old church, newer church, and the anni- that she could see her humility and simplicity, we welcomed the new-born versary logo. Then all were invited to eat some of knowledge in the field of psychology, human devel- daughter married before she opment, leadership and community building. The Child Emmanuel, God with us. There was a lot of the anniversary cake - which was a very large sheet died. This young girl had her joy and peace all around us and in us. cake topped by a cake replica of the early mission! Program is set in the context of a diverse religious wedding date set for Septem- community. The twenty four students that came for The day ended with an afternoon procession of the ber. However, to fulfill her Christmas day was filled with sunshine. Once image of Our Lady of Guadalupe back to the chapel, the fall semester were from Asia, Africa, Europe Mother's wish, she wanted to have it as soon as and North America. Our diverse and multicultural again, we gathered together to pray and to cele- and everyone left with fond memories! possible. I quickly spoke to Fr. Matta, and every- brate. It was an amazing experience … to see how community living is a wonder and a challenge. We thing came into play. Since they had such a big are all children of God... we are all unique in the “total strangers” were becoming a family…! In Sheila Patenaude, fmm family, (there were around 60 people coming) the our beauty… we all deal with a lot of pains and the evening, when the night was silent and holy, wedding was to take place in the hospital cafeteria. problems… we all have a great potentiality for we sat together around the joyfully twinkling Christ- I told the girl how unselfish and big hearted she was love and good. Through our studies, personal and mas tree. Fr. Daniel invited us to briefly share our to give up her wedding dreams and settle for a hos- group works, liturgy, and daily living, we are jour- stories. As the night was slowly deepening so were pital cafeteria. She quickly said, "All I want is to neying together into a deeper self-understanding, the stories, - stories of love, loss, pain, betrayal, have my Mother there.” Her Mother's hospital room self-awareness, self-acceptance, and appreciation longing, tears, searching, and hope! Sitting in si- became the "dressing room" where everyone was of our lives and our human history. We came here lence… listening, we witnessed to the miracle of getting ready for the wedding. The patient was as strangers… and over the time, we became a Christmas happing in us and around us… the mira- brought down to the cafeteria in her hospital bed, family… cle of God becoming one of since she was too weak to go in a wheelchair. She us! In the darkness of the looked lovely with her new wig (she had lost all her The fall semester ended on December 18th. During night, we have seen the hair due to the chemo). The bride had a gorgeous the Christmas break, I was helping our sisters at Light! No one wanted to bridal gown, and the groom looked handsome in his the FMM Retreat Centre in Cold Ash. Cold Ash is a move and to break the won- suit. The ceremony was brief but so meaningful village located in a beautiful, hilly, and green coun- der that surrounded us…! and heartwarming. The Mother gave them both her try site. Green forests, pastures, and gardens sur- That night was really holy as blessing from her bed. She looked tired but happy. round our FMM home. The views from my fourth the strangers became a The bride's cousin then sang a touching love song floor window were spectacular; I often admired the family, - a family reborn in for them. It was more meaningful since this cousin rising sun and the starry nights. In Cold Ash, we Christ! The following day, was blind. There were many tears flowing from all have two communities: St. Gabriel community, our celebration continued the guests. A reception followed including the brid- which is our Infirmary, and the Retreat Centre until the parting time came. al dance, and the cutting of the cake. Today, five community. With joy and sadness, we said our good-byes… days later, this loving Mother went home to God and I'm sure with a grateful heart that her daughter There were five of us working as a team: Fr. Daniel After the Christmas celebrations, Fr. Daniel, OFM and son-in-law fulfilled her dying wish. OFM, our sisters Kumari and Romana, Luciana and sister Kumari took some days of rest. So, I (FMM friend) and I. My assignment was simple – to was taking care of the farm. Early in the mornings, as the white fog was rising over the valleys, I was Marie Cinotti, fmm be at the service of others. So, for the first days, I feeding the ducks, geese, chicken, turkeys, pigs, was doing what I like the most – cleaning the pigeons, and wild rabbits. I was laughing looking at house, setting Christmas decorations, and prepar- the geese taking bath in a small basin; I admired ing our Home for the long awaited guest – Jesus, and our dear guests – the Christmas group coming the ducks doing some “figure skating” on a frozen to the Retreat Centre. pond and the “Mr. Rooster” proudly walking around 8 his chicks. The days were passing too fast. 9 On January 4th, we joined our sisters at St. Gabriel over the country. And, vocation conference or not, Las Cruces, NM media by the “Tortugas Indians"…The tribe has community to celebrate together the Birthday of it seems that everywhere I go I meet people who been known in the past as the "Pueblo Indians of our Institute. As we picked up our countries to pray have worked with or replaced Sr. Bea down in El A COLORFUL ANNIVERSARY Las Cruces", "Los Inditos de Las Cruces" and “San for and our Patrons for the New Year, we were Paso! The Convocation lasted 4 days and includ- Juan de Guadalupe Tiwa". In 1998, the tribe for- grateful to God, for the past; we enjoyed the pre- ed three keynote speakers – Sr. Colleen Mary Mal- What’s so special about a parish anniversary? mally incorporated as a non-profit corporation un- sent; and we have looked with hope into the future. lon, O.P, Fr. Bernhard A. Eckerstorfer, O.S.B, and How about COLOR? How der the name "Piro-Manso-Tiwa Tribe of Guada- On the last day of my staying in Cold Ash, we wel- Sr. Theresa Rickard, O.P. – as well as many many parishes have at least lupe Pueblo". comed Sr. Marie Therese, the UK Provincial break-out sessions, liturgies, and vendors’ stands 150 Native Americans in var- th among us; it was good to be together. On January to peruse. The talks were realistic, inviting and ious styles of tribal dress Each year on December 12 , for the feast of Our 6th, I returned to the Institute of St. Anselm to con- hope-filled, with many citations from the Holy Fa- (and headdress) dance sol- Lady of Guadalupe, the parish dance troupes per- tinue my program. ther. The speakers asked us to question ourselves emnly and reverently in front form their stunning and yet very solemn and rever- with “What is the energy and life of our communi- of the church before Mass -- ent dances. (See the You Tube video of the 2008 I am grateful to God for every ty?;” to recognize what God has done in Jesus and to introduce the procession performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch? day that God has given me the power of the Holy Spirit - that we are each of bishops, friars, priests, v=lc9o8f39TeQ). This is preceded by an all-night here. It has been a time of called to cooperate fully in the life and action of the and people to the celebra- vigil and climb up the nearby “A” mountain, to imi- wonder in so many different Holy Spirit; and finally that the Resurrection is the tion? How many parishes tate St. Juan Diego’s pilgrimage to Tepeyac Hill in ways. Also, my appreciation good news that we are called to share as commit- have a full hour of colorful Mexico. goes to all those who made ted, confident people, rooted in the reality of the dances performed th my stay here passible. Gospel. A 30-minute video with some excerpts of after Mass by these colorfully clad parish groups? The 100 anniversary of the parish was something the speakers is available on YouTube. It is entitled different and outstanding, however. It was attend- Greetings of Peace and Love Highlights from the 2014 NRVC Convocation in On Saturday, October 25, 2014, Our Lady of Gua- ed by Bishop Cantu, Bishop Emeritus Ramirez, to all of you dear Sisters Chicago. All of their talks were current, concrete dalupe Parish in Tortugas Pueblo (Las Cruces) various Franciscan friars and priests of the dio- in the USA and UK Provinces. and well worth viewing. celebrated its 100th anniversary, prepared for lov- cese, and many people from the parish and dio- ingly for a full year! Like most New Mexico parish- cese. Visiting Conventual friars included the Minis- May the Blessing of the es, this one is bilingual English and Spanish, but ter Provincial from Indiana, Fr. James Kent, OFM Almighty God be upon you! what makes it rather special and unique is that a Conv., a friar recently re- large number of the parishioners are Native Ameri- turned from his mission in United in Christ, can. The parish history is closely entwined with the Russia, and four former Fran- Malgorzata (Gosia) Bukowska, fmm culture of the local pueblos. ciscan pastors of the parish. The latter included Fr. John

nation. Michael, the handsome Italian with the big moustache, was especially entertaining as formerly

6 11 Did you ever come across an old piece of silver, Its beauty hidden beneath tarnish and In our congregation as said by MMP, " OUR HOME- WELCOME TO THE AMERICAN FAMILY layers of dust? LAND IS THE WHOLE WORLD" and in the Letter of Did you want to see it be refined, St. Paul to the Ephesians, "You are no longer strangers Its old beauty restored? "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the Then I thought of myself like that old piece of silver.. are created equal, that they are endowed by their holy ones and members of the household of God... ." Down through the years, I, too, have acquired bits of Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among ‘tarnish and dust.’ these are Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness." To uphold my rights and responsibilities, the next day Yet there is still some of God’s beauty I registered as a voter and elected my candidates, to buried beneath. Declaration of Independence fulfill my active and engaged participation in my com- I know the beauty is there because God put it there munity. in the beginning. October 21, 2014 was a day I was honored and con- gratulated as becoming a Naturalized Citizen of the I am now a part of this precious history and this Na- God entrusted my life to me. Sr. Helen Klumpp, fmm United States of America. When I made my OATH tion is now my Nation. As the incumbent President It was a gift, a gift to be loved and cared for CEREMONY we were 141 participants of 43 nations. Barack Obama's message to us and returned. 105th Birthday The District Judge reminded us that as a Naturalized Like the silver, it often means some cleaning has Citizen we are an important part of our great democ- "We embrace you as a new citizen of our land, and to be done. racy, bringing a wealth of talent, ability, and charac- we welcome you to the American family." Some acquired parts will have to be destroyed. On January 30th, Sr. Helen Klumpp celebrates her ter to this nation. Upon taking the Oath of Allegiance, Some will be transformed. 105th birthday. She is still alert and does not need we claimed for ourselves the God-given unalienable Love will do both. glasses to read! In her earlier days she was an ac- rights the Declaration of Independence sets forth as Alicia Alambra, fmm complished violinist and dancer. The Charleston a natural right to all people. The polishing, scraping and fire may be painful. was her favorite dance! Bishop Thomas Tobin In the letting go of what must be done away with, greeted her on a recent pastoral visit to St. Antoine’s Since the world foundation, we are all immigrants, God and I will work together. Residence. More celebrations will follow. we live and travel from one country to another full of He has my ‘yes.’ and for the rest… hope for a brighter future. At this point in time, I am I will never doubt the transforming power of here in the United States of America to fulfill my mis- God’s grace. sion. Each country has its own privileges and re- BLIZZARD 2015 And when the refining is finished, sponsibilities. The democratic principles, ideals, lib- Transforming complete, erties and civic values which we uphold here, are Here in Fruit Hill we weathered the Blizzard of And beauty released, also the same we upheld and cherished in my coun- January 27, which found many of us hunkered down My dream will be… try Philippines. safely in Lourdes, De Chappotin, Bethany, Holy Family, Trinity and Queen of Peace communities. That in the end, Some of our essential staff stayed overnight and I will stand before God in all my beauty, transformed, Landscapers and Maintenance staff plowed roads all all bright and shining night so as to keep up with the blowing snow. Some So that when God looks at me, He also see His own found staying put inside a “mini vacation” that ena- image reflected back. bled catching up with reading and household and God smiles, opens His arms, other computer related tasks. Continuous updates And I am bathed in love. and instructions by elected officials cautioned people This is my dream to stay off the roads so that proper plowing could be Sr. Mary Catherine Boudreau, FMM done and lives saved. Wonder of wonders these in-

structions were obeyed. Surely when Cathy appeared before God, Heaven

was glowing with Cathy’s beauty as it reflected the

Many of us recalled vividly the infamous Blizzard of God whom she loved all her life. Dear Cathy may

1978 that crippled the New England States and led you rest in the peace you have truly earned.

to many deaths. Because of excellent communica-

tions, swift action and past experience all went well Lois Pereira, fmm with no accidents nor loss of life.

Sr. Alicia Alambra, FMM at the US District Court

Northern District of Illinois (See page 16 for Winter 2008 …)

12 5 upbeat attitude because she knew God was with her. Mary. It was Cathy’s deep love of God and her faith FORWARD MARCH TO THE CHAPTER ... cooperation, not competition. Offer specific goals. It was God speaking through her. So many of us that gave her the strength and courage to respond to Be trusted, responsible, capable. Embrace the op- have been helped by our dear Rosalie with perhaps a God’s call. I think these words of our foundress, IN COLLABORATION position mind-set, don't dominate, make creativity word, a smile or just her listening ear and heart. I Blessed Mary of the Passion, express Cathy’s desire possible. Let there be no power distance between would like to share this poem written by Jessica Pow- to become a Franciscan Missionary of Mary: “God will Sheila Lehumkuhle visited us at 97th St. post her yourself and everyone else. Be able to take the ers, known in religious life as Sr. Miriam of the Holy be the origin of my love, Jesus will be the burning experience in Rome. She was full of spirit and life liberal and conservative and make a decent pro- Spirit, a Carmelite nun. center, Mary the source by which I will be given to Je- and summed it all up in just one posal. Relationships are more important than your sus, to the Church, to souls.” (NS: 18) word: collaboration. touchy pride. You have to take off the armor to The Will of God After her Final Profession Cathy began her studies at build strong bonds. As for those who consistently Lois Pereira gave us the transmis- St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Brighton, Massachusetts to refuse to play by the rules, exile them. Have the Time has one song alone. If you are heedful sion and the house visitation in Jan- become a nurse and completed her Bachelor’s De- guts to marginalize radicals who refuse to play by and concentrate on sound with all your soul uary. That word, collaboration, came gree at Boston College. Cathy was missioned to the rules.” you may hear the song of the beautiful will of God, up often and did so in Sue’s letter St. Francis Hospital in Roslyn, NY and later was mis- soft notes or deep sonorous tones that roll and the chapter document 2014. sioned to Indonesia where she continued her ministry So let us march forward to the chapter in collabora- like thunder over time. Between these two visits of Sheila in nursing. Cathy was missioned back to the United tion. Working with others, to do a task, to achieve Not many have the hearing for this music, and Lois, the New York Times ran States and had some mission experiences other than shared goals. Cooperation to seek solutions ad- and fewer still have sought it as sublime. an article, "the unifying leader,” by nursing. Her ministry in California took a different vantageous to all. Share your abilities, creativity, David Brooks, which ended with the- turn. She met up with the Indonesian community who craft, courage, discipline, devotion, discernment, Listen, and tell your grief: But God is singing! se words: “We need a renewed appreciation soon became an important part of her life. Through energy, enthusiasm, emotion, intelligence, imagi- God sings through all creation with His will. for the art of collaboration.” this group Cathy found herself in charge of an RCIA nation, inventiveness, passion, perseverance, pa- Save the negation of sin, all is His music, group - a totally new mission experience for her and tience, skill, sweat, tears and tantrums. And we will even the notes that set their roots in ill When I shared this at our discussion, Lois said to as she told me - one that intimidated her. These be astonished at our accomplishments, as we pour to flower in pity, pardon, sweet humbling. write it up for Sharings to heighten our awareness. words of Mary of the Passion seem to say what Cathy out our gifts and share our talents and radiate our Evil finds harshness of the rack and rod And so, I make a humble effort to comply with Lois' was experiencing at that time: “Let us leave the Lord graces. Oh! What a joy to behold you are! How in tunes where good finds tenderness and glory. request. of the harvest perfectly free to do with each one of us God has blessed you! How fortunate we are to

Lois Pereira, fmm be challenged and deteriorate she was missioned to Ein Karin community with residence at St. Antoine’s.

bowed out and chose the bed instead of the movie. helping others to become the persons God wanted Vera Cole, long-time monthly benefactor them to be. She had a great capacity to listen, to

give advice, direction and most of all love and en- Michelle Gardner, niece of Claudette Simard, fmm 14 couragement. Rosalie always had a supportive, 3

EDITORS’ NOTES YEAR OF CONSECRATE LIFE 2015

Year of Consecrated Life ...... 15 Mary Motte, fmm Winter ‘08 ...... 16

2 15 From our archives …

Winter 2008

God’s Holy Light

Snow-covered landscape glistening bright Franciscan Missionaries of Mary USA Province Rain and snow frozen on every tree Volume 45 No.1 Winter 2015 Like diamonds, in a million, sparkling

points of light

Joyful panorama to set our spirits free

Faithful light that grows within me Shining bright through every day and perilous night God’s great Love that calls me to follow The urgings of that gentle light

What gift is this that’s been given to me? What joyful gratitude fills my heart? Calls me to follow wherever He leads In this great drama ‘tis my blessed part.

Though darkness surrounds me Then the Spirit led Jesus I have no fear. into the desert The light grows brighter Matthew 4:I And dries every tear.

who longs to find a home in us so that we may have fullness of life. Lent is indeed the time to unite ourselves more than ever Maria van Galen, fmm to the sorrows of Jesus and His Immaculate Mother.

Customs Book 16