Franciscan of Mary USA Province Volume 39 No. 4 Winter 2009

What an awesome gift has been given to us in this God who became incarnate in Jesus, to show us what Love is, to show us who God is. THIS is the God with whom we are in relationship, this is the God whose Spirit dwells within us, this is the God who waits so patiently for us to come to the stillness, in the dark of that place within, that is the manger of our hearts, where only the lowly and the humble are invited to the Encounter. Do we dare to hear the invitation of the angels, so that we too can know the joy of being in awe before this great mystery of utter simplicity, and run to tell others of this Good News within?

"We... have to accept first of all this image of a God who is humble and a servant, Who comes in the weakness and powerlessness of human limitations, and welcome his love, source of life in abundance.. .

Suzanne Phillips, fmm Letter No. 1

Editors’ Notes

Recently three of the FMM ministries have honored the contribution of Sisters over the years. While St. Clement’s Eucharistic no longer has the presence of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, the Per- petual Eucharistic Adoration continues with another . The sanctuary of the church contains several symbols related to Franciscan Missionaries of Mary.

Even though both in Franciscan Hospital for Children and St. Francis Hospital few Franciscan Missionaries of Mary serve on the staff, the “FMM spirit” continues. This issue of Sharings contains the account of the St. Francis Hospital “Wall of Faith,” which honors the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, the Founding Sisters.

The ongoing Apostolic Visitation of Religious Sisters in the USA, which has required Sisters to respond to a lengthy questionnaire, has spurred many to return to their sources and to their Constitutions. Sandra Schneider poses a far more interesting question than who left and why, "Why did the ones who stayed, stay?" This question was answered in the presentations and in the shared exchanges during the “Day for Sisters.” Twenty Franciscan Missionaries of Mary attended this day held in the conference hall of 31st St, . Read more on page 10.

We wish all of our readers blessings as we look forward to a new year of grace beginning in Advent and moving on to the birth of Jesus,

Rosemarie Higgins, Maryann Alukonis, Anne Turbini, fmm

Contents Day for Sisters …… ……………………………10 New York City ……….…………………………...12 Our Deceased & Sick, El Paso …………….. 3 Sabbatical 2009 …... ……………………………13 USCMA Conference . .. …………………….4 Millbrook, NY ……………………………………14 Wall of Faith ………………….. …………….5 Our Tree ………………………………………….16 Second Chance ……………………………...6 Sharings is published at: Las Cruces ….……………………………..7 Provincial Communications Office 399 Fruit Hill Ave West Greenwich ………….………………….8 North Providence, RI 02911 Tel: (401) 353-5804 Ext: 130 Fax (401) 353-8755 Renewal of Vows ……………...…………….9 Please send articles either to [email protected] or [email protected]

NEXT ISSUE: SPRING

2 Award from St 's see page 10 Our Deceased Relatives & Friends there would be two more Vietnamese seminarians Recently, the funerals of a staff member, Lillian Bowie coming to join the seminary. We waited for their arrival and long-time volunteer, Anna Krawczyk were cele- to have our celebration, and one seminarian from Co- brated in Holy Family Chapel. lumbia also joined us.

Lillian Bowe Anna Krawczyk

Eleanor Brush, aunt of Anne Turbini, fmm

This was the first visit of the Bishop to our convent since Our Sick Sisters & Relatives we came to his diocese. He shared with us news of things that were going on in the diocese, the border Please remember in your prayers our Sisters in the FMM land, etc. All enjoyed the Korean appetizer, Vietnamese Assisted Living Residence especially Mary Ann Loughlin, chicken noodle soup and mungbean dessert. The Viet- Margarida Tavares, Herminia Coquia, and namese seminarians and I entertained with Marian Simone Decelles. songs in Vietnamese, Kyong sang “How Great Thou Art” in Korean and the Columbian seminarian, who was a Frances Falk, having treatment prior to dental surgery next year

Emma Balaguer, fmm is at St. Antoine’s Residence. She is receiving physical therapy.

Mary Ward, fmm is receiving physical therapy at Cherry Hill Nursing facility.

George Fisher, brother-in-law of Betty Keegan recover- ing from a successful liver transplant

pop singer in Columbia, sang in Spanish to Our Lady. Dinner with Our Bishop and Seminarians The seminarians’ presence in El Paso is a response to the people’s prayers in the diocese. Now there are To welcome everyone and to make our congregation twelve of them from Vietnam, the Philippines, Colum- known in El Paso is part of our community project. On bia, Kenya… and one from Juarez, Mexico. They make the third weekend of October our community had a their journey with God by leaving their homeland, will- chance to welcome the Bishop of El Paso and four semi- ing to serve people in this border land, learning to be- narians to our house. come bilingual and bi-cultural with peace and joy, and sometimes…struggles and challenges. A few months ago on the occasion of a gathering of new seminarians in our diocese, Sr. Marie saw a Viet- The Bishop was very simple and relaxed to be with us namese seminarian and went to greet him. He had just FMM sisters and seminarians. We shared our different arrived in El Paso about three weeks before to study in FMM ministries here and Sr. Beatrice also shared her the seminary to be a priest to serve in the diocese of El recent trip to Columbia. Everybody enjoyed the day of Paso. He was very happy to know that a Vietnamese friendship as we supported each other in following sister was here. Marie invited him to our house to have God’s call. a Vietnamese meal with us. The Bishop was nearby 3 and heard their conversation. He said to Marie: “I like Yen Nguyen, fmm Vietnamese food. I’d love to come, too.” He also men-

USCMA Annual Mission Conference New Orleans - October 23-25

I attended for the second time the Annual Mission conference of USCMA. Its theme “Behold I Create a New Heaven and a New Earth: Seeing Mission with New Eyes” Attending the U.S. Catholic Mission Association’s an- was in itself a creative mission nual conference, entitled “Seeing Mission with New practice. The main concern of Eyes,” was a wholly unexpected gift. I went as our the conference evolved around Sister Nzenzili’s companion, and we flew down to New the learning from Katrina and the Orleans, the site of the meeting. rebuilding of a New Orleans. “Katrina was all water but it was This impressive gathering (around 200 priests, reli- a desert of experience.” I had gious and laity, whose driving interest clearly was the mind-stretching exchange in my spread of the Good News) was offered a full program Home Community where we had of events to attend. Several of them provided opportu- a PowerPoint on “Out of the nities for an enriching give-and-take of the partici- Womb of Katrina: Forming Future Missioners through pants’ experiences, most of which were Short Term Immersion Experience.” After Katrina, New either abroad or among the migrant communities of Orleans became a new mission territory and its ongo- this country. ing rebuilding is the result of a worldwide chain of soli- darity. Since this conference took place in New Orleans, on the second afternoon we all separated into five When a disaster strikes, people realize how interde- groups, going by bus to five differ- pendent we are. A disaster like Katrina does not dis- ent locations, all of which had criminate, it strikes everyone and the whole of the their poignant story of suffering creation around; those stricken find comfort and through the hurricane Katrina, strength in community. Loneliness is alienating: “We and also of being blessed in were enjoying being together in the shelter home;” the process of recovering from solidarity makes the next step possible. Katrina.

Katrina taught its inhabitants that their suffering con- The keynote speaker was Fr. nected them with others who experience that kind of Anthony Gittins, and his fiery poverty: when you have lost everything and have to words on mission seemed truly depend on others. Some of them affirmed that they inspired by the Holy Spirit. His pas- now understand the plight of the undocumented. sion for God’s mission in the world served to heighten the gathering’s hope and joy in the privilege of being I would like to conclude these lines with what Fr. Jon part of this mission. Sabrino, SJ wrote in his book “Where is God?” “Unless we somehow live the reality of disaster, we are turning Anne Dundin, fmm away from the cross of the crucified people. Whether the cross takes the shape of hurricane, an earthquake or other natural disaster, or of wars, repression, injus- tice, and we are turning away from paradoxical light that can come from these things, and even from the hope and solidarity that can grow out of suffering.” For me, the conference was a powerful experience of the necessity of a theological reflection in my daily life. “Where is God” in all these? I really enjoyed the dy- namic of Home Community and the entire atmosphere was very uplifting. The rituals were very inspiring.

Nzenzili4 Mboma, fmm

The Wall itself is on the west side of the property, not Wall of Faith far from the grotto and the Way of the Cross (now shortened with the Stations on both sides of the path- Wednesday, October 28, 2009 9:00 AM – the date way). On “The Wall” in bronze are our old Institute logo and time set for the Dedication/Blessing of the “Wall of and on the right, our present symbol. Between these Faith”; however, rain prevailed, and the brief ceremony is a plaque reading: took place in our chapel. Many friends and benefac- tors from our earlier days here at St. Francis were pre- “Make my heart and that of the Institute a sent as well as some of our Sisters from nearby com- living flame that enkindles the earth” munities. Blessed Mary of the Passion, Foundress of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary.

The Sisters who began St. Francis Hospital were women of great faith, hard-working, and deeply committed.

The example of these early Religious has come down to us in our day as a legacy of caring and something to be treasured.

Dedicated to The Franciscan Missionaries of Mary May 21, 2009

When you visit the Wall there is a lovely place to sit and gaze around or rest quietly and remember.

The photograph of “The Wall” was projected onto a Mari Garesché, fmm screen that was placed in front of the altar. Dr. Alan Guerci, CEO and President of St. Francis, retold the story of our FMM beginnings at this location. Carlos Munson offered the present hospital property of 15 acres to the Sisters “to bring the children from the city out for fresh country air.” He spoke of the St. Francis Hospital and Sanatorium for children from the area who had contracted rheumatic fever, and of the Sisters who cared for them, gradually nursing these little ones back to health. After pulling down the old cottages and raising newer buildings for further improvement, the hospital continued to move into the 21st century.

Dr. Guerci thanked the two retired physicians who at- tended this event, Drs.William Noble and Filippo Bal- boni, as well as all those present for their constant generosity and for their pride in St. Francis. He ex- pressed a very special thank you to the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary for our dedicated service through the years. Sister Pauline Gilmore, FMM, Director of Pastoral Care, thanked Dr. Guerci in the place of Sr. Lois Pereira, FMM. Fr. John, one of our priest chap- lains, prayed a blessing over the picture. All were in- vited to a reception in the Board Room where we met 5 the donors.

God gave me a second chance Until then, I had felt like I was in water, and suddenly

my concern popped out: "How is doing?” I My time/space concept has been changed after this knew that being inside a fish must mean fishy smells experience. Throughout my life time which is more and fishy flesh coming into Jonah's nose and mouth. I than three quarters of a century, I have been moti- felt how Jonah must be agonizing, and thought, "He's vated not to waste a moment of time. I have so many the one who should have this oxygen.” I tried to tell things to do. One after another, the list was always the male nurse because he was the one who could do long. I felt I had to do everything, right now. I was al- it for Jonah. But my voice did not come. At that mo- most compulsive in my religious and work schedule. ment I realized that I had become mute. I thought to myself, “for three days I am going to be mute.” If things fit into my schedule and I accomplished my goal, I was satisfied and felt that I did God's will and The number "three" seemed to be connected with served my mission. This made me feel like I did a muteness: Jesus in the tomb....Paul and Zechariah's good when I was approved by other people. situation...."three" is a kind of interesting number. Another incident in the coma was when once I woke Through the Sabbatical program up to feel a deep, deep calm … I sank into this, and in my hidden goal was to polish up front of my eyes was a window or wall, and the feeling this concept. I was intent on that dawn was coming, and I was covered with dawn. receiving information, in- All the colors were of light-gray shades. At the corner creasing my knowledge, of this space, I saw a pinkish color spreading from the deepening my spiritual life corner. I thought, "The sun is coming.” Near the ceil- and renewing my vocation, ing, I then saw a beautiful blue color like the New etc. etc. etc. Mexico sky that was clear, and like a wide belt sash. I thought “Mary might come.” But no one came. For a This all changed one day in while I stayed looking at that color, and then I fell Wickford. asleep.

I walked into the water at the cor- During the coma, a memory of 9/11 came up. I had ner of the bay and the water was warm and pleasant. once heard the story of a woman who was on the The sky was blue. The sisters from the Sabbatical pro- 84th floor and had to come down the stairs, as di- gram were also enjoying this beautiful afternoon. rected by the loudspeakers which told them what to do. Suddenly the sound stopped, the electricity shut off A small wave came, I tried to escape this water but and everything was totally dark. More and more suddenly I could not. The next thing I knew, I was un- smoke was coming and she was with many, many der this water already drinking the salty water. I did people coming down the stairs. She said the scariest not know what I was doing. part was not the smoke, but the people becoming less and less until she was the only one coming down the I am not sure what happened next, whether this was a stairs. She called it a 'hell experience'. dream, a spiritual experience or a psychological hap- pening. I knew somehow that I was in the hospital. I I too was in the darkness which was my hell experi- could hear what was happening. However people's ence. But at the same time, I saw some shadows voices began fading away. Where I was, I did not coming and going randomly around me. Then I felt, know. that's my community, my sabbatical community!! I was so happy, I cried. Then I felt the nurse come near I noticed how it was very difficult to breathe. Then a and ask, "What happened? Do you have pain? Can I male nurse came and it seemed like he changed my help? ‘ body position, shook me, and lifted my body higher, then he gave me more oxygen. Gradually my breath- I just cried more, but inside of me, I felt a very deep ing became so comfortable. But when I couldn't love for the connection of community though I could breathe, perhaps unconsciously, I was looking for not tell which sisters were there … I found out that the people with the same experience who were thrown Sabbatical period was not a time for building up but into the water and struggled like I did. for tearing down all of my previous concepts. When I could not move, talk, eat or walk or even think, my life Then I met Jonah ... began to change. I could say that my space concept 6

has expanded, the time sequence has been knocked little older. Some of them are married with four or five down. I find myself struggling with where I am, and children; some work full time. They are trying to get where should I be. their college degree despite heavy work and family responsibilities, including illness, funerals, and sur- Then I began to understand that the fox has a nest but gery. If any students from these three courses cannot Jesus did not have a place to lay His head. What a get an assignment in on time, they must let me know if wonderful freedom. Everything is good and a gift from there is a legitimate excuse. Then I can give them an God. extension in time. It is through sharing these problems with me either face-to-face or by E mail that I come closer to them as persons. Thanks to everyone for your prayers and strong com- munity support. This term besides many cases of H1N1 flu, the mother of one student died of cancer, and another student Jeanne Mera, fmm whom I really admire for her resiliency and positive attitude had two "tragedies" happen to her! First, someone broke into her car and stole her bookbag and new, expensive textbooks. With a big smile, she told me the following week that she had gone the round of local pawn shops with serial numbers and Las Cruces, New Mexico: recovered everything! A week later she came in to ex- plain she had to miss a couple of classes because her Variety is the Spice of Life! father and three other men had been electrocuted in an industrial accident at Carlsbad, where he worked in In our small community of three, Nancy Cabral and a potash factory. The engineer was killed, the electri- Marie-Paule Willem experience a wide variety of pas- cian was in critical condition, but my student's dad and toral and social events in the two parishes where they another worker escaped with severe, but non life- work. Marie-Paule also has a beautiful ministry at the threatening burns. After driving all the way to the burn Detention Center. But in my own ministry of teaching, center in Lubbock to see her father and console her it's a little harder to find that variety which keeps the mother, JC returned with a smile to attend classes and brain cells moving, the blood pumping, and the "joie get back to her job. No complaints or whining, just a de vivre" intact! When we lived in Chamberino, in ad- positive outlook to take life as it comes! dition to teaching English classes at two local commu- nity colleges, I could also teach "World Religious Tradi- The third group of students I work with are at-risk teen- tions" at the nearby University of Phoenix campus. agers. From August to May I Since we moved to Las Cruces, however, I had mainly can only tutor them two after- taught English only, so until last summer I was begin- noons a week because of my ning to get a little tired of correcting grammar and other course load, but this punctuation! experience is life-giving and certainly full of variety. Stu- This term has been quite different, and I find the variety dents at Rivers Academy run enriching and invigorating for a 75 year old! Besides the gamut from a brilliant 13- the occasional translation work I do for that year-old in the home study lends some spice to life, last summer I began tutoring program to children from 11 to at-risk teenagers four afternoons a week. I liked it so 18 in the Delta Program; the much that I kept this up in the Fall while going back to latter come from the juvenile detention center or drug teach my regular college courses. As it turned out, I'm treatment facilities. I tutor the 13-year-old in US history teaching in three very different situations this academic and French; she tried going back to a regular school, year, with a variety of students of different ages and but just didn't fit in, since she was already taking ad- backgrounds. vanced algebra and wrote English essays like a col- lege student! My regular face-to-face classes at Doña Ana Commu- nity College are two wonderful groups of regular col- Among the other students, we had two young women lege students to whom I teach Business English and who gave birth to babies and prepared at Rivers to go Communications. They range in age from 19 to 25 forth as single mothers to support their children. One, and come from both DACC and NMSU (New Mexico who is mentally challenged, just moved with her 7 State University). In addition, I teach an online course mother to Virginia, where she will do training as a in rhetoric and composition, but these students are a cosmetologist. The other one will receive a high school diploma from Rivers this December, and will go From India to Coventry And West Greenwich on to study online courses in forensics to get a degree. International Women of Faith Another young man will graduate with her from high On A Journey of Hope and Joy school; his mother is mentally ill, but he hopes to work with his father in construction.. The Franciscan Missionaries of Mary were founded in Another young man, whom I tutor in world history, India in 1877 by Mary of the Passion (Hélène de Chap- seemed by his remarks one day to be troubled by au- potin). This was the first Catholic women’s missionary thority in government. When I went to his social community founded by a woman. After one hundred worker about this, he explained that this teenager's thirty-two years there are approximately 7000 FMM mother has a constant round of boyfriends who abuse from 81 countries sent in universal mission to all parts of his little sister, so sometimes he lashes out at tradi- the world. FMM life is centered on the Eucharist and of- tional authority figures. fering oneself for the Church and the salvation of the world following the way of Mary and Francis. During Another sixteen year old has shown up drunk or on their recent General Chapter Fall 2008 the Sisters drugs occasionally, but it is because his mother is a stressed once again that their missionary sending is vendor and pushes him into these habits. He loves to rooted in the mission of God which Jesus was sent to come for classes at Rivers, because of the loving, yet live among us. They underlined their missionary com- firm support he gets there. mitment and preference for the poorest: We desire to continue moving towards a more authentic solidarity Each of the teenagers at Rivers has his or her own sad with those who are excluded and poorest, realizing story, yet it is so enriching and life-giving to me to see there are times when we can do nothing, only be pre- them blossom in this type of one-on-one supportive sent with them. Gradually we let go of our judgments so atmosphere! In addition to individual and group coun- we can listen, accompany, dialogue, and try to get to selling sessions, they also take art and cooking classes know their culture and beliefs. We work along with them that are very therapeutic for them. I find that my part- so they can regain their hope and dignity. time tutoring there is not only a real opportunity for one -on-one ministry, but also enables me to work with a The FMM have had an important presence in RI for wonderful staff and gives me a rich variety of teaching many years on Fruit Hill Avenue in North Providence. In experiences. For besides tutoring in language arts, 2003 the program - a time of intense prepara- there I tutor in New Mexico history, US history, world tion for life in this international community - moved to history, American government, and even French! That West Greenwich. During this period of formation, the certainly keeps the brain cells moving, though I gladly novices participate in the life, prayer and ministry of the leave the math, science, and art to others! community. The parish of Sts John and Paul has also My experience thus shows me that as an FMM "of a shared in the ministry preparation of the novices for certain age" I not only CAN find variety in life, but which the FMM are deeply grateful. Two young women SHOULD, since it is so helpful to maintain a positive, are presently in the initial stages of their formation in enthusiastic outlook. I also admire our Sisters and Brighton MA; this time is prior to the novitiate. other houses, who find a variety of small ministries in everything from giving hospitality at the door to E mail, Sister Barbara Dopierala, fmm was sent telephone, and letter writing contacts. Our daily Mass, to the US Province from Poland. As a reg- Eucharistic adoration, community life and prayer give istered nurse, she served in the Francis- us the support, strength, and grace we need. But no can Missionaries of Mary Assisted Living matter where we are as FMM, there are always peo- Residence in North Providence. She is ple who need us and something we can do for them, actively engaged in the ministry at the no matter how small. And in the process, it is not only Franciscan Bread Line in Providence. Dur- they, but we ourselves who are also enriched! ing this past year Sister Barbara prepared a group of children for First Communion, whose parents are immi- grants from Poland. She brings an energetic spirit of Sheila Patenaude, fmm love and caring to each of her ministries.

Sister Mary Motte, fmm was sent to West Greenwich from Grottaferrata, Italy where she had worked in generalate services. She 8 is now completing research/writing on mis- sion theology, with special focus on the mis- sion legacy of Mary of the Passion and also on

the challenges to mission in the future. Her ministries Renewal of Vows include research, ecumenical collaboration, writing Cathy Tshitenge, fmm & Annie Nebres, fmm and education related to mission theology.

Annie renewed her vows in Mary Mother of Mankind Sister Ruth Tamulis, fmm was sent Parish during the 8 a.m. Mass. Nzenzili Mboma rep- from West Greenwich to Holy Family resented Lois Ann Pereira. Fr. Robert Caul, the cele- Community, Fruit Hill where she gives brant, spoke extensively about Franciscan Missionar- much appreciated service, and re- ies of Mary. He was delighted to have this public re- ceives the care she needs at this newal of vows in the parish. After the Mass all present time. She has fond memories of all in were invited to go to the parish hall beneath the Sts. John and Paul. FMM life is rooted church for coffee ‘n. Twenty fmm’s were present for in the Eucharist and offering for others through daily this occasion, which was another witness and oppor- prayer and contemplation within religious community. tunity to make the Institute better known. A Mass We are fortunate to have these women of faith in our booklet contained a write-up about the Franciscan parish. Missionaries of Mary and other information about

Blessed Mary of the Passion, Bl. Assunta and FMM (From the bulletin of John and Paul Church) Martyrs was displayed.

Fruit Hill Animal Kingdom

Deer Family stag not pictured but there

On November 18, 2009 Fr. Elias Malon, SA (Friar of the Atonement) celebrated an evening Mass for the re- newal of vows for Cathy Tshitenge. The entire Myriam community was present including Bosco, our resident student sister from China. Elias celebrated a beautiful liturgy during which Cathy renewed her vows for three years. In thanksgiving for the gift of Cathy we sang the Ave of the Institute. The liturgy was followed by a deli- cious meal. It was indeed a graced moment for Myriam Community. the Province and the Institute. As an aside, Elias and Mary Theresa Plante work together for International. One of 8 Foxes snoozing in the cemetery

9

A Day for Sisters

Margaret Carney, osf, president of Schneider captures accurately the answer to why Sis- St. Bonaventure University gave a ters have stayed. She writes: These are the women presentation on “Spirituality for who, today, compose the largest cohort in religious Sisters Today.” life, the 60-80 year olds. This is not only the largest but also the most vibrant group in religious life flanked at She ended her presentation by one end with a small number of wonderfully coura- relating the 9/11 experience of geous new entrants in their late 20s to 40s and at the seeing firemen reverently carrying other end, by a still numerous group of women in their the remains of those who perished in 90s and beyond who continue to witness with stun- this horrific event. Every fireman blessed himself ning beauty to the joy and fruitfulness of a life totally with the sign of the cross as the remains were car- given to God and God's people. The members of this ried away. After each example, Margaret related largest cohort are examples of "80 being the new 60." this to an assuredly past experience of the firemen Generally in vigorous mental, psychological, and being instructed by a Sister. physical health, they have to take time off from full- time ministries to celebrate their 50th and 60th anni- At the end of the day, Margaret Carney presented versaries in religious life. They are carrying the respon- an award to Mary Petrosky and Liliane Alma for sibilities of leadership in their orders and supporting enabling Margaret Carney in her fund raising efforts with indomitable hope and courage the church-wide for the 150th anniversary of St. but beleaguered effort to keep the spirit and sub- Bonaventure’s University. Holy stance of Vatican II from succumbing to the tides of Name of Jesus Community at restorationism. (Excerpt from the article “Why they 97th St. provided hospitality to stayed: Women religious and the apostolic visitation”) Margaret each time she came to NYC. [Sandra M. Schneiders, a member of Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary of Monroe, Mich., is a professor During the day, ample time of New Testament Studies and Christian Spirituality at the was given for Sisters to share Jesuit School of Theology, Berkeley, Calif.] amongst themselves. The question posed by Sr. Sandra Rosemarie Higgins, fmm Schneider, "Why did the ones who stayed, stay" was answered. In her article, Sandra

Twenty Franciscan Missionaries of Mary attended the “Day for Sisters” held in the confer- 10 ence hall of 31st St, Order of Friars Minor. FMMs pictured with Sr. Margaret Carney, osf.

Panel: L-R: Kimberly Clause, osf-First Profession, Constance Gaynor, osf, semi-retired sister,

Claire Andre Gagliardi, osc-cloistered, Thuy Nguyen, fmm-pre-novice, facilitator Joe Cavoto, SA

L-R: Presenter Mary E. Petrosky, fmm and Margaret Carney, osf. Mary’s presentation was “What Keeps us Going.” (separate insert)

Visitation, we know the scene: two women-cousins-full of life, expectantly waiting, eager to help carry out what wondrous work God had begun. Willing, they were still not without questions, wonder. How can this - God’s word - come to flesh in ’s womb? “How is it, the mother of my Lord should visit me?” In utero, the prophet testifies - joyous first leap of faith. Did they speak of birth pains, of how their lives would change: the one, so long seemingly forsaken; the other, surprised out of time for all Eternity’s sake? Spirit overshadowing, the Light came.

Two thousand years later, another visitation: women closer than cousins, sisters by water and by blood, meet. The air is pregnant with fear and doubt and the light seems far as these made virgins for the sake of the kingdom come together. Frances Falk, fmm There is no angel voice urging peace, calm. And so, the questions begin, sounding more like judgment. But how can this division be, when, for both the questioner and the questioned, Jesus is always the only answer?

Come then, Spirit, with the word, that is the two-edged sword; cut us free of fear that in the speaking and the listening, truth will out and find us all so ready - one in Him - our lives 11 a praise. Fran McManus, RSM A fill of life in New York City! to Picasso’s brilliant creations; from Assyrian art to American interior decoration. The fraternal greeting and availability of the Francis- can sisters of 96th street, invites us to express our Life, creation, we also experienced it at the top of the gratitude. Empire State Building, in the general assembly room of the U.N., visiting a small library in Harlem, or attending New York might not be the “new world” it used to be Sunday mass under Francis’s auspices. Strong in European minds, but in our opinion it remains the emotion at Ground Zero also! crossroad of all liveliness. But what have we said of “real” life, of the splendour of How can this urban monster produce such a power Central Park, lungs of life in the heart of whirl and craze. of life? In this haven of nature, the melancholy of autumn’s col- ours summons the poets and recalls them to our hearts. Our first visit in Ellis Island helped to explain this mys- Will we be able to make the right choices to preserve this tery: life builds up on diversity. The visit of the immi- small space held by sweet squirrels and trees deter- gration reception centre was particularly impressive, mined to resist? especially considering how little the French are in- clined to welcoming Others. Yesterday’s political and We must at this point mention the life of misery endured social circumstances are not those of today and com- by those excluded from this busy and glamorous world. parison is inapplicable. However, it is enlightening to Even if the privileged visitor might only catch a glimpse of see with what commitment the American nation has this distress, he will stumble on people, often black, who addressed immigrant integration, its achievements on not only wear poverty in their rags, but also seem lost, issues like language or the emerging of a new cul- dazed, miles away from this world they don’t fit in. It ture. “Living together” was reached by a lengthy path seems that life unfolds at unequal speeds. and was built on continual exchange of knowledge and experience. Are we still capable of following this This, however, does not lessen the kindness of those path drawn by past generation, at our own pace? sisters, who know how to help, in the streets, in the sub- way or in the bus, these Frenchmen unfamiliar with the The liveliness of New York is also observed in mer- language of …Barack Obama; who welcomed us at JFK chant activity; business is made. All bustle and rush; airport in Halloween dressing. eating whilst walking, on the phone as they catch a bus or a subway train. Is New York the temple of busi- So many of our fellow contemporaries have lost the taste ness culture? The capital of profiteering, would assert of life, and so many of our decisions estrange us from it. the more critical? As we crossed Brooklyn Bridge and If you are seized by this world-weariness, go to New entered monstrous Manhattan, we were seized by York; it holds this treasure of concentrated vitality, spirit emotion and bewilderment; an impression of being and liveliness; a treasure that we share thanks to global- devoured by the beast, crunched by its jagged and ization; and that we must grow in its entire spiritual di- shiny teeth. Has New York sold its soul to this god of mension. commerce? Good-news, in New York, life awaits you! But New York cannot be honestly reduced to busi- ness. The treasures kept in its museums are stunning. Blandine and, Visiting the Cloisters, Blandine was astonished to find Guy Aurenche, lawyer, half of the Saint-Michel de Cucxa cloister (France), es- chairman of the CCFD Terre pecially since her ancestor, bishop of Pérpignan, en- Solidaire (Catholic commit- deavoured to keep the cloister in France! All can be tee against hunger and for sold, all can be bought! Nevertheless, living in a town development), honorary which concentrates so many masterpieces of world chairman of the interior art is spiriting. Truly, mankind is vested with a magnifi- federation of the ACAT cent power of creation! In one day, we contemplated (Christian action for the a worldwide panorama of inexhaustible artistic abolition of torture). riches: from the oldest sculptures to the most modern pieces; from Chinese gardens of meditation to Jones’ November, 2009 compositions; from the light of Flemish paintings 12

Sabbatical 2009

The first of many Aussies from Down In early 2009 via emails from my mission in Korea, I Under...... I hope: was inquiring around, hoping to get a reservation for a good directed retreat. In the course of my searching, The extraordinary richness of the the subject of the Sabbatical held at Bethany came up, 2009 Sabbatical group was an un- and I accepted the invitation. imagined Gift. As the weeks un- folded, each one's uniqueness & Having arrived in the country in a very tired state, the depth was revealed. What a Gift. restful tempo of the sabbatical schedule was so ap- preciated. The well prepared talks, all on the elements The inspirational Presence, and depth of lived of our charism, invited us ten sisters, coming from all Charism, shared by Alma, Nzenzili, Mary Petrosky & corners of the world, to be renewed in our calling as Elizabeth Ann were beyond any expectations. I am FMMs. deeply grateful to have been given the opportunity to share in such an amazingly respectful and profoundly Our sharings, which followed a moving process.....a process which I pray continues day of readings and meditation with the same awareness of the richness of our on the element in focus, were Charism as we continue to live out new ways of ex- deep and sincere, drawing us pressing this in our world today. The depth of sharing ever closer together. For me, it and listening to each other gave many insights into was a very special joy to meet at how varied the expressions of our Charism are, yet at the same deep place, sisters the same time how unifying it truly is. from very different cultures and missions than my own. My sincere thanks to the USA Province for making such a program available. For the extraordinary work in Yes, we ten shall not soon forget the graced weeks preparing, coordinating & delivering a truly FMM sab- spent in Bethany this summer! batical so finely tuned & flexible: I thank Alma for her gracious humility, Franciscan leadership and discern- Anne Dundin, fmm ment, but most of all a living example of our fmm Charism truly alive.

As for Nzenzili, well, that's another story. What an Trees 2009 amazing humor. But even more astounding is her ability to truly listen....to the heart. The ability to listen Six Tree Stewards joined John Campanini, Arborist to, not what is said, but what the heart is trying to ex- Consultant and Rosemarie , fmm on a chilly, rainy day press. I suspect she listens to the Spirit in the same manner. What a gift.

Mary P? How diverse is our Charism. Our paths have crossed before and she is as inspirational as ever. Still filled with the passion and energy she had in Papua New Guinea many years ago.

Elizabeth Ann: Wow, what depth & length of experi- ence as an fmm....& shared so generously. Thank you to all. at Fruit Hill. They mulched 70 trees so as to protect the And how amazing it was to meet so many in the Fruit roots of trees during the winter. Annie Nebres, fmm Hill communities who had lived & worked with videotaped the event. Philo Yapp, fmm and Maryann 'Aussies' in many countries, over many years....some Alukonis, fmm distributed wood chips at the tree sites. back in the 1940's! I thank God that I was the first Aus- sie from Down Under to have experienced this Sab- Spring Planting batical and I pray I will be the first of many! Three additional trees could be donated for planting spring 2010. If you know of anyone who wants 13 to do- Sue Devitt fmm nate, please send information to Rosemarie. Province of Australia

Dedication of New School at

Cardinal Hayes, Millbrook, NY October 8, 2009

Members of the staff, Board of Directors, FMM sisters, residents and friends gath- ered at the new school to wait with an- ticipation Archbishop Dolan’s arrival to bless and dedi- cate “The Theresa and Edward O’Toole Education Cen- ter.”

Fred Apers and Betty Wolf welcomed His Excellency as he stepped out of his car, and flash bulbs from many cameras went off. As the clouds cleared and the sun came out, the weather collaborated greatly for the out- Betty Wolf, Archbishop Dolan, Fred Apers door ceremony. After Fred’s welcoming words, Jessica led us in the pledge of Allegiance accompanied by some of our Boy Scouts and Adventurers (girls).

Sr. Lois led us in prayer and spoke of our history here with gratitude for the many accomplishments attained under the leadership of Fred Apers. Ken Anderson, Pres. of Board of Trustees of our school and Betty Wolf, Pres. Board of Directors of CHH then spoke and gave Archbishop Dolan a gift of a basket of local goods. John Kading, VFW member, told of how the acreage left by the VFW was purchased by CHH. George Whalen, a longtime benefactor gave a touching testi- monial to our FMM sisters who served here from the beginnings of the Home.

Archbishop Dolan then addressed the group of over a hundred, praising the staff for its dedication to the spe- cial needs children over the years, acknowledging also the devotion and generosity of the many benefactors and the Millbrook community’s support for this ministry. He then blessed the new school and began a tour of it accompanied by photographers and dignitaries.

The invited guests went to the school gym for lunch and fellowship while the children and staff ate under the tent. After his tour Archbishop Dolan “table-hopped” to greet all the guests, thanking them for their support. Some of the guests toured the new facility and saw it in ‘action’, as the children had returned to their class- rooms after lunch.

This was the day Our Lord had made and we were glad and rejoiced in it!

Jackie LaVie, fmm 14

Prayer The Cardinal Hayes Home was established in Mill- Lois Pereira, fmm brook in 1941 as a result of the generosity of Oakleigh Thorne who donated the home that he had built for his Saint Paul wrote in his letter to the Philippians: “I thank daughter and the surrounding lands over looking the my God each time I think of you, and, when I pray for village to the New York Archdiocese. Mr. Thorne was you, I pray with joy. “ Today we can thank our God, thrilled to have the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary as our God of Surprises for the past twenty-five years his neighbor and was proud of their work with children since Cardinal Hayes School for Special Children be- requiring convalescent care. Archbishop Dolan, I urge gan. You have a very brief history of the school in your you to drive through the Hayes Home Campus upon programs. Today, however we continue to give thanks your departure from Millbrook today, as it is truly a to our God of Surprises for The Theresa and Edward "crown jewel" in the system of care for children with O’Toole Foundation and their invitation to apply for a severe disabilities. charitable grant. Mr. and Mrs. O’Toole ran a religious goods business and maintained a respect and appre- The Franciscan Missionaries of Mary - the Stewards of ciation for the work of the church. Their family founda- the Hayes organization have been valued members of tion was established in 1967 and grew into one of the the Millbrook community for over 68 years. The Sisters largest funds dedicated to the support of religious or- not only tend to the needs of children in their care, they ganizations world-wide. We are all aware of Fred also provided a ministry of support to many of our citi- Apers’ passion for Cardinal Hayes Home and School zens. Sr. Olive Goody, who cared for the children at for Special Children and his dreams and hopes for CHH for over 40 years, was my instructor for CCD in ever increasing services that can be offered to our the St. Parish when I was a youngster. special population. The result of his passion and the wise advice and help from many others is what we The operation of the agency was pretty low-keyed until are here for today, the Dedication of the Theresa and Fred Apers came along in 1973. The organization was Edward O’Toole Education Center at Cardinal Hayes ready to grow and we discovered that Fred loves to School for Special Children The O’Toole Foundation build! In fact, Fred is at his best when he has a new Trustees gave a check in the amount of $250,000.00 project. To be fair, however, the Agency builds with a along with a note that read, “We are delighted that the purpose in mind - it is never about numbers served, Foundation is able to help in your endeavors and we rather it is about quality of care. wish you the best of success.” That grant along with the wonderful generosity of many of you here today The Mission of Hayes has gradually changed over the helped to raise over $825,000.00. Our fund raising years. The past 25 years the focus has been the care efforts will continue into early 2010. We are im- and treatment of children and young adults with se- mensely grateful to the “Friends of Cardinal Hayes vere intellectual disabilities and multiple physical School” listed in our program. handicaps. The development of this school program is an extension of that Mission. We will never understand what prompted The Theresa and Edward O’Toole Foundation to contribute such a The spirit of this organization remains Franciscan at generous leadership gift. However, their name on this heart. It focuses on the dignity of all life, compassion- new building proudly serves us as a reminder of the ate care, partnership in the workplace and acceptance constant presence of our God of Surprises and so we of all persons for their unique gifts. These values are continue to give thanks. extended to those they serve, to the staff and to our community.

It is a privilege for me to be associated with the Cardi- nal Hayes Home and School. George T. Whalen, Jr. Millbrook is a better place in

part due to the special wit- My friend, Fred Apers, asked me to say a few words ness of this organization. today about the relationship of Cardinal Hayes Home and School to the Millbrook Community. I feel I am well I congratulate the Sisters, equipped to comment on this relationship as I have Board of Directors, Admini- been personally involved with this organization for well stration and staff on this spe- over 35 years, along with my wife, Ann, who is a cial occasion of the blessing member of the Hayes Board of Directors. of this new education center. 15

The Archbishop’s words were brief but moving - “I am deeply grateful for the joy and inspiration Our Beautiful Tree of being here. It is a blessing to be here. This has to be so close to the heart of Christ himself. This For so many years, the large red Japanese Maple is difficult work that flows from the Sacred Heart tree outside our windows, has given us all of Christ. October is ‘Respect for Life’ month, and great joy, -like a beautiful bouquet from our God here life is treated so tenderly. “ In days when the sun shone brightly on it, a red-gold beauty In times of flu or virus going through the house, a glance out the window brought cheerful Uplifting.

Today, Our tree is being, cut down. Gradually, throughout the past year she has sick- ened and become diseased. Now, her gift of beauty has been completed, it is time to go to her rest.

And so, it is for us too.

O loving Creator, grant that when our time to go has arrived, We too may go to our rest gladly, having given joy and uplifting to many.

Joe hands the Archbishop Lois Houlihan, fmm his spinning ball!

Joining music therapy ...

From Blessed Mary of the Passion ...

Thank the Divine Child for having come into our midst, and live in His grace and truth, in humility and detachment. 16 MD 59