December 2015

These last few days I have been reflecting on the power of the little word “yes!” This small word spurs gratitude, giving, and courage. This season of the year is filled with examples of how the gift of someone’s “yes” serves the common good, is a force for transformation, bolsters the evolutionary process, brings joy and hope in our day, and sets the stage for tomorrow’s surprising possibilities.

Gratitude surges for the “yes” uttered over and over by Sister Mary William throughout her life; seventy-five years of it lived as a Sister of the Presentation. Gratitude surges for the courage, trust and hope for a new world present in the “yes” of Sisters Jessi and Mary Therese as they commit, like Nano, Mother Vincent, and today’s Sisters of the Presentation, to freely give of their gifts in order to live in solidarity with the crying needs of today’s local and global communities.

Speaking of solidarity, it is overwhelming to reflect on all who walk within the initial formation process and promote life-long formation in community: the communities in Chicago and Tarija, Bolivia, Giving Voice, our gatherings of sisters and lay members, the hearth groups, spiritual directors and mentors saying “yes” to sharing with Mary Therese and Paola about how they live mission as disciples and how they strive to promote the values of Jesus which stir the hope “que otro mundo es posible,” “that a new world is possible.” We express our abundant gratitude for the “yes” of Sister Ann Jackson for her five years of walking with our sisters in formation discernment, and we welcome the “yes” of Sister Annette Kestel to continue this sacred ministry. In addition, we are mindful of the “sacred circles”, the Caritas groups, and the unfolding work of our Emerging Circles working to realize some of the hopes expressed in our community Dream Book in order to foster a life-giving present and future. It is overwhelming to ponder the great gifts of giving and courage present in each of our mission sisters, associates, employees and our Mt. Loretto community as all relate and work in their circles of influence to daily bring into the present, mercy, hope, compassion and the joy of the gospel.

In January of 2016, it is possible that two Sisters from Vietnam will come to live in the Mt. Loretto Community. They have said “yes” to the challenge of leaving their community, families and homeland. They will be entering a new culture and learning a new language during their two years with us. Their language studies will prepare them for degree work at a university (perhaps in Houston) which will assist them to better serve their people in Vietnam. During the last two years we have been completing all the necessary documentation and interviews for Homeland Security, and have been approved to receive the Sisters. At present, they are working on getting the proper visas for entrance into the . Their names are

1

Sister Huyen Thi Phan, and Sister Nuong Thi Bui, members of the community of women religious, Lovers of the Holy Cross.

We live in gratitude, as we celebrate the “yes” of the US martyred women in El Salvador who said “yes” to staying with the people in the midst of the horrendous massacres and violence taking place at that time, and to all who say “yes” today to continue to seek peace throughout America: Central, South, and North. We give thanks for the opportunities to foster peace in our time and place, as no one is free from violence. As Pope Francis has said, “Many powerful people don’t want peace because they live off war. Some powerful people make their living with the production of arms. It’s the industry of death.” May we continue to work for peace in our families, towns, cities, schools and states as well as support peacemaking groups throughout Earth, our common home. As one interrelated, interdependent community, can we say “yes” to live in relationship and dialogue?

When pondering the power of the little word “yes”, we can only wonder at the “yes” of the youthful Mary, cited by National Geographic as “The Most Powerful Woman in the World”. She said “yes” to birth Jesus, who in turn incarnated mercy, hope, healing, compassion, the joy of freedom, and thereby changed the course of history by sharing a vision of an evolving, peaceful, world community that we yet struggle to realize. We are gifted by their courage and giving. We have the “yes” of Emmanuel, God with us, as we commit daily to say “yes” to living “Peace on Earth and good will to all.”

Merry Christmas!

2 “Evolutionary Spiral” Artist: Mary Southard, CSJ www.MarySouthardArt.Org Courtesy of www.MinistryOfTheArts.Org Congregation of St. Joseph Ever Emerging

This newly developed page in Community Notes is designed to highlight emerging circle activity and inspire conversations. Each month an emerging circle will be invited to feature its movement, stimulating insight and inquiry, as well as implications for other circles and our emerging Presentation future. This month we hear from the Wellness Circle.

The Wellness Circle met November 16 at Mt. Loretto to discuss both recent and upcoming events regarding health and wellness. In this season of expectation and excitement, it can be easy to fly through the days and start to focus too much on what lies ahead. However, it is also important to do our best to stay present to the moment and appreciate what is going on each and every day, rather than just crossing another day off our countdown until Christmas. Advent Calendars do help us “count down” to Christmas Day, but they can also provide a great opportunity to pay attention to the importance of each day of the season. This year, the Wellness Circle has again created a calendar for our 2015 Advent Wellness Challenge, which can aid us in our task of slowing down and making a conscious effort each day to contribute something to the wider world, even in this especially busy time of year. The theme of this year’s calendar is “Caring for Our Common Home,” in reference to the recent encyclical by Pope Francis encouraging us to be responsible global citizens as well as followers of Christ in our daily lives. The challenge prompts participants to focus on three aspects of our lives: home, health and heart. It is in the format of a calendar that covers the entire season of Advent, designating one of the three categories for each day. You look at which category is for that day, and then go below to find a list of activities under the heading of each category. It is up to you to decide which activity you would like to do for that day. For instance, some of the activities include things such as turning off the lights when not in use, writing a letter to government leaders, eating fewer sweets that day, listening to prayerful music, visiting the chapel, calling an associate to share blessings, etc. No matter what the activity may be, it will contribute simultaneously to your own wellness and the well-being of those around you in the areas of home, health and heart.

Besides creating this calendar, the Wellness Circle has been busy this past year. Along with producing a similar Advent Wellness Challenge Calendar last year, the circle has coordinated numerous efforts to encourage wellness in the past months. Last spring we hosted Brian Brown to give a seminar on energy, as well as a nutritionist from Hy-Vee that spoke about healthy eating. In the upcoming year, the circle is excited to organize more programs that contribute to the community’s overall health. Our circle’s intention is to be constantly working to promote physical, mental, psychological and spiritual wellness both within our community and beyond. We also always welcome new ideas, as well as new members. If you are interested in joining or simply would like more information, do not hesitate to contact Ann Jackson or Cassandra Busch (Wellness intern) at [email protected].

The members of the Wellness Circle will meet again in December.

May we each know ourselves ever emerging…

We are so grateful to continue to host student interns at Mount Loretto. Cassandra (Cassie) Busch, a Junior at , is interning at Mount Loretto this academic year. Originally from Cedar Rapids, IA, Cassie attended Xavier High School and is currently studying English at Loras and is editor of the Lorian. Last year Cassie studied in Ireland for a semester. She will be spending this J-term in Italy!

Cassie is currently assisting with coordination of the Wellness Emerging Circle. She has also been assisting Sr. Ellen Mary Garret to sustain numerous slides stored in the library by converting them to digital form. Meeting one-on- one with the sisters at Mount Loretto to aid them with technology, Cassie reverences developing these relationships. Feel free to jot Cassie an email at: [email protected].

Engaging Contemplation …

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, God's mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23)

Mercy seems to be the buzz word these days. As we begin the extraordinary Year of Mercy and continue through this season of Advent, we are reminded of our focus as Disciples of Christ, concentrating on service to others and a deeper personal relationship with the Lord, woven in the promise of Christ's coming.

As usual, the holidays are a time of heavy preparation. There are dozens of cookies to bake, lists to check and presents to wrap. Many times we become so immersed in preparing for Christmas day that we neglect to prepare our hearts for the season's true meaning.

Several months ago I discovered Eucharistic adoration as a way to prepare my heart for Jesus' coming. Several times a week I enter a small, quiet chapel and rest in the presence of the Lord. All of my anxious thoughts dissipate as I sit in discernment, asking the Lord to align my heart's desires with His. This contemplative time renews my spirit and offers me much needed and gracefully given daily bread.

May we all find ways to open our hearts to mercy and receive this special time as an incredible gift of grace. Let us pray that, as Pope Francis thrust open the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica, hearts everywhere begin their own personal pilgrimage to God.

Merry Christmas!

Nicole Baumgartner Human Resource Coordinator

5

December 2015

THANK YOU Sisters and associates who baked cookies and furnished snacks for students at and Loras College as they studied for their final exams. Students at both Clarke and Loras appreciated the treats and the prayers of support that accompanied the goodies. Sister Rita Cameron

Dear Friends, Thank you for your continued prayers for my sister Jeanne Kress. As we spend Advent waiting for the celebration of Christmas, Jeanne and I are also waiting in hope for Dec. 21 when we will see the cardiologist who tended to her during her days in hospital in November. As yet we do not have a diagnosis, but Jeanne is being treated for symptoms of congestive heart failure. As a diabetic, she is at risk for many things. I am grateful for the fine care she received at Finley Hospital and for the excellent care she is now receiving at Sunnycrest Manor in Dubuque. She has adjusted quite well and is beginning to understand the need for long term care. Lovingly in Nano, Sister Beth Kress and Jeanne

Dear Friends, Thank you so much for your prayers and cards before and after the death of my brother, Jim. My sisters, brother and I were very grateful that he had hospice in the last weeks. He died about two hours after receiving communion and the Sacrament of the Sick. Sister Martha Donnelly and family

Dear Friends, Thank you for your prayerful support for Sister Virgie. The doctor is very pleased with her knee surgery. Now the therapy and pain! Sister Raeleen Sweeney & Sister Virgie Luchsinger

2016 Winter Retreat Theme: "The Heart of Compassion" Presenter: Janet Mallack, SSND Where: Mt. Loretto Convent When: Sunday, March 13, 7:00 p.m. to Friday, March 18, 5:30 p.m.

Please contact Sr. Julia Wingert if you wish to make this retreat. [email protected]

6

The members of the Vocation Association (DAVA) have a great deal of energy around letting others know how good it is to be on “Fire For Your Faith”. As a matter of fact, DAVA has contracted a young man named Paul Kim to bring his message to Dubuque on Wednesday, January 27, 2016, at the Kehl Center on the campus of Clarke University and Thursday, January 28, 2016, at Wahlert . Paul Kim was one of the emcees at the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in , in November. He has the ability to engage 24,000 teenagers and hold their attention as he tells his story, sings his songs and talks about his relationship with God and the .

Sister Ginny Heldorfer, OSF and I attended the conference in Indianapolis and we were amazed at the way the young people (24,000 in all) responded to what was offered by keynote speakers, breakout sessions and exhibits. Sr. Ginny and I joined religious men and women from 55 communities across the United States in helping with various exhibits, games and interactive booths. These young people had questions, they were interested in learning, and they were serious about what brought them to the conference. These young people offer hope as we look at the events hitting the news these days. DAVA’s hope is that those students attending NCYC will be renewed by this event in January and if students could not attend, they will get the opportunity to experience some of the energy that was present at the conference.

The January 27 event is on a Wednesday evening and is intended for students from grades 6 through the 12 in religious education programs in the Dubuque area. Parents and families are encouraged to attend this event. The January 28 event is on Thursday and will be presented in the morning for high school students attending Catholic schools in the area and the afternoon event will include middle school students attending Catholic schools in the area.

This is a major undertaking, but one that DAVA feels is very worthwhile as it is an invitation for young people in the area to become more intentional about their faith journey. Before anyone can discern his/her life’s vocation, he/she needs to have an understanding of where God is in his/her life. Paul Kim has wonderful music and a great story. God’s presence is very evident as he speaks and sings.

7

Reflections from Sr. Mary Therese For the month of November, the focus of my formation was Presentation charism and mission. I had the great opportunity to visit with Sr. Rene Laubenthal and Sr. James Marie Gross to hear of their experience of tutoring at the Lantern Center as well as hearing the stories of the people they have met over the years. It was inspiring to hear of the importance of presence at the Lantern Center, building and reverencing those relationships, listening to each other, and learning from each other. The story of the journey of the beginning of the Lantern Center and how Sr. Corine’s passion helps to create a place of hospitality for those who need it most is carried by the Lantern Center volunteers and also radiates the Presentation Charism for the people of Dubuque.

I also had the pleasure of conversing with and learning from Sr. Irma Ries, Sr. Beth Kress, and Sr. Elena Hoye in regard to the greater mission of the International Presentation Association (IPA). Knowing little about the IPA, I learned an incredible amount from these women whose passion lies in the Presentation mission, charism, and the IPA’s justice focus. The history, changes, and purpose of IPA were explained and demonstrated by the sisters as they shared their personal experience working with the IPA. The impact the IPA has on justice around the world and the diverse mission, yet focused on justice, was fascinating and I truly appreciated these experiences. Knowing I am in formation with a community not only focused on peace and justice in the United States and Bolivia, but throughout the world helps to bring a sense of joy to my discernment. As I prayed with the Presentation Novena this year, it was clear to see how the Dubuque Presentations and the IPA are truly living out the charism and mission Nano Nagle lived daily. I feel privileged to be part of the Presentation community and with those around the world working as Nano did, to create a place of hospitality, peace, and justice for all.

Sisters Mary Therese Krueger and James Marie Gross

8

FOOD FOR THOUGHT…

"Let us be present to the now. It's all we have and it's where God will always speak to us." -- Richard Rohr

How can you be open today to the Divine Presence already operating in your life?

PASSING ON THE LANTERN LIGHT … Rita Menart, PBVM Lois Loughren is a member of the Northern Lights Associate group. She is carrying the light that was passed on to her by God. For the past 15 years, Lois has worked as a hospice volunteer accompanying at least ten people on the last steps of their journey to God.

The seed of desire to serve in this manner came when Lois’ mother was dying. Hospice volunteers came to their home to accompany her mother and help the family. She was so impressed with the work that she decided to become a volunteer. The skills she uses in hospice are nourished by the gatherings of the Northern Lights where associates and sisters grow relationships by praying, listening and sharing together. Lois lists reading to clients, playing games and listening to life stories as the threads that build relationships in her volunteer work. The everyday actions of hospitality nourished at associate gatherings are passed on to make the last days of people in hospice richer in relationship.

Lois is clear that she has received much more than she has given in her hospice mission. Hearing the personal stories of people triggers memories from her own past. The people share the wisdom they have gleaned from life through their words and stories. Lois stated that those dying talk much about family and their childhood. Material things fade into the background as people reflect on relationships. Sharing on this personal level has nudged Lois, who considers herself a more private person, to grow in sharing of her inner self. Both Lois and those she works with benefit from the relationship.

Lois is letting her light shine in the journeys of those dying as our God hoped we would do for each other.

Lois with Cedar Valley Hospice Coordinator Lauri McBride.

9 AN INAUGURAL ZOOM GATHERING This past November 10 marked a historic event as five associates assembled for the first ever associates-at-a-distance gathering via Zoom video conferencing. Facilitated by Billie Greenwood, the group engaged

Billie Greenwood with the fall Caritas materials. The inspiring and energizing conversation gave witness to deep identification with the Presentation mission as new awareness and emerging questions and capacities were shared. All participants agreed that “zooming” is a wonderful way to enable everyone to participate and contribute – a way of respecting and reverencing the dignity and gifts of each person.

Associates Carol Witry, Billie Greenwood, Bernie Graves, Bren Connors, and Donna Ewy and gather via Zoom video conferencing.

WITH GRATITUDE AND WELCOME As you may know, the Associate Partnership Advisory Committee meets three times annually to support and encourage associate participation in the PBVM mission and to make recommendations to the leadership team and co-directors regarding matters that affect the associates.

Both Karen Sr. John and Deb Jasper have just completed their third term of three years, the maximum number allowed by the committee’s constitution. Deb McClimon has completed her second term of three years on the Advisory Committee and is moving on to other ministries. We are grateful to you, Karen, Deb and Deb, for sharing your faith, wisdom, many skills and support for the Associate Partnership in countless ways as Advisory Committee members! Blessings on your journeys!

We are happy to welcome Janet Leonard, Barb Ressler and Becky Searcy as our new Advisory Committee members. All three are teachers by profession. They each bring diverse gifts and much enthusiasm for the Associate Partnership to their roles as Advisory Committee members.

LENTEN REFLECTION DELIVERY Thanks to all for your prayerful, thoughtful Lenten reflections. The booklet is being printed this week. If you plan to be at Mt. Loretto over the holidays and would be willing to take Lenten booklets back to those in your group or area, please contact Carol at [email protected].

Those who received the Advent booklet electronically will also receive the Lenten booklet electronically.

10 SAVE THE DATE Mark your calendars for the spring sister and associate retreat on April 16-17, 2016.

AN ADVENT STORY Blessed Advent Greetings!

May your days of Advent be filled with anticipation to see the Star of Wonder.

I would like to share with you my Star of Wonder. I captured it on my camera on Sunday morning at 2 a.m. in the wee hours of the first Sunday of Advent.

I bet you're wondering first of all, what was I doing up at that hour. Well, I had just finished watching the movie 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner' (Sydney Poitier, Spencer Tracy & Katharine Hepburn - 1967) Great movie!

When I shut off the TV, in the reflection on the screen, I saw a beautiful red and green long line extend across the room. The light source was coming from the reading lamp I had on behind me. When I turned around to see it from the lamp, there was no line. ... It could only be seen in the reflection on the TV screen. Amazed and filled with wonder, I thought, I would try to capture it in a photo....I took several.

Never once could I capture the beautiful red and green line, I could only see it in the reflection... Instead, in every photo I took, it showed this beautiful Star... (Look! The beautiful red and green line is the left point of the star!) I took pics with no flash, and with flash - every time I got this wonderful star! Needless to say, I was filled with wonder -- I still am!

So that's my little story for you this Advent. I truly believe in the Star of Wonder! Do you believe??

Perhaps you can capture a star of your own. If you do, please share it with all. Happy wondering.

May your Advent be wonder- filled!

Hugs to All, Associate Darla Budden [email protected]

11

As Christmas approaches our spirits are strengthened by the warmth of this holiday season. Christmas is a beautiful time that brings us closer to the people we love. It is a time to reflect and to give. It is an invitation to reconcile with everyone and everything around us. It is time to forgive and to be forgiven; but more important, this holiday season invites us to set aside the material and think of those who have nothing, those who are lonely, marginalized, displaced and many of them forgotten. Our travel plans continue with new expectation, new challenges, but always with the joy of being able to continue Nano’s legacy of service. In the past week we had a nice dinner with our prayer partners. We want to express our gratitude to Sisters Benjamin Duschner, Dolores Zieser, Corine Murray and Sister Margaret Anne Kramer for accepting our invitation to be our companions on this journey. We have our passports in order and the next step is to send the information to the sisters in Bolivia so they can send us an invitation letter. Dora is going to teach us (Colleen and me) some survival Spanish. We hope to learn “un poquito” (translation: a little bit) at least! Also we will be meeting with Sister Rita Menart, who traveled to Bolivia during the month of December. We want to hear everything we can to prepare us for our visit to Entre Rios and Tarija. Please don’t forget our friends in Bolivia during this Christmas season. Your donations are highly appreciated. You can contact Sr. Rita Cameron [email protected] or go to the Sisters of the Presentation website and learn how you can contribute to this amazing cause at:

http://dubuquepresentations.org/ministry_sponsor_enter_rios.cfm

“Bless us Lord, this Christmas, with quietness of mind; teach us to be patient and always be kind” (Helen Steiner Rice).

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. God bless you always.

12

Chaplains Who Have Served Our Community

1875-1879 Father James Ward, pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Key West 1879-1910 Assistant pastors from Cathedral Parish: 1879-1887 Rev. Patrick D. O’Reilly, Rev. Garrett Nagle, Rev. P. S. O’Connor, Rev. Roach, Rev. Charles Carroll, Rev. John Carroll, Rev. Slattery, Rev. Matthew Darcy, Rev. Timothy Meagher, Rev. Lawrence Burns, Rev. Martelle 1887-1910 Priests from St. Columbkille Parish, including Pastor Rev. John R. Fogarty 1910-1927 Father Patrick J. Leahy, first resident chaplain who volunteered his services through these years, and also furnished his own suite of rooms 1927-1932 Priests from Columbia College took care of the sisters’ spiritual needs. Rev. John Howell served as chaplain for two years, and Rev. William Collins for one year. Rev. William Russell taught the novices at Mt. Loretto, and he was often the one assigned to offer the community Mass. 1932-1952 Msgr. Dorrance V. Foley 1952-1958 Most Rev. George J. Biskup 1958-1979 Father Gerald V. Shekleton 1979-1980 Father John O’Connor (Dec. 3, 1979-Feb. 1980) 1980-1988 Father Mark Nemmers 1988-1984 Father Dan Rogers (last resident chaplain) 1994- Father Douglas Wathier

The first Mass celebrated in the new motherhouse (1229 Mt. Loretta Ave.) was on Friday, November 5, 1909. Father Leahy was celebrant. From Msgr. Foley’s time until the present, Mt. Loretto chaplains have had an additional ministry: Msgr. Foley was chancellor and vicar general of the Archdiocese of Dubuque Father was named of Dubuque in 1957 after having served as vicar general for some time. Father Mark Nemmers served as Auditor Advocate and Notary of the Metropolitan Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Dubuque. Father John O’Connor was on the staff of Wahlert High School. Father Gerald Shekleton was editor of THE WITNESS. Father Douglas Wathier is Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs/Academic Dean and Professor of Religious Studies and Theology at Loras College.

13

Waiting for New Baby The mother comes to the center a couple of times each week. She is excited and a bit lonesome for her own mother as she anticipates the birth of her first child in late December. The Joyful Servants of the Light sponsored this family for Christmas. They provided gifts for the parents and the baby as well as several practical things will are appreciated.

It fits! With great delight several of our parents had the opportunity to select brand new coats, hats and gloves for their children. They were so grateful. The items were gifts from the Knights of Columbus. These gifts and the hats, gloves and scarves from the Resurrection School community made a huge difference for some of our families.

The center was also in a position to re-gift several winter items to women who come to the center, to women at the Domestic Violence Shelter and to women who are finding their way after incarceration. They were all so grateful.

A Family from Syria joins us at Mt. Loretto on Thanksgiving Day. The family has been in the United States for nearly two years. The children are in grades one and two. They sang a couple of songs for us in the dining room. The first song was in English and the second one was in Arabic. Several of our sisters who were music teachers personally praised them for their music. Everyone greeted them so warmly.

Gifts for the Social Concerns Committees of the parishes of St. Catherine's and St. Donatus It really was a dark and stormy night; a night when the windshield wipers could barely handle the rain. I drove to the small town of St. Donatus, about 15 miles south of Dubuque to meet the women from those two parishes and tell them about the center. About a month earlier, they asked for a wish list. They brought tissues, table napkins, and jars of peanut butter, coffee, dishwasher soap and cleaning supplies for the center. My car was filled with these items.

As you celebrate the seasons of Advent and Christmas, I thank you for all the ways you have supported the mission of the center and helped us welcome the strangers among us. There is a mean spirit blowing in the country against immigrants. Our welcoming presence is very important in challenging such attitudes. Thank you for all that you do. Peace,

14 Visits to the rural communities just before the big events of First Communion and Confirmation bring multiple surprises. Arriving at Huayco Tigre, a small community without a school, chapel or gathering place, Marge and an Entre Ríos family (Magalia, Imaebe and Josue), headed to the catechist’s home where a few families often gather. Meeting the catechist’s daughter heading the opposite direction, she greeted them, “Although we don’t have a chapel, we do have a “modern church” where we are meeting today.”

Each member of the family supports the piece of bread as the father leads them in a prayer

Up the hill we trudged to the “modern church,”an absolutely gorgeous, sacred spot of creation. How conducive it was to pray with parts of Pope Francis’ “Laudato Si” (“Praise be to You”) and to break bread as the meaning of Eucharist was deepened. As First Communion students shared what they had learned from the service project they had given during their time of catequesis, one sensed the presence of Jesus.

Praise be to God for the presence of the Spirit in creation and in the hearts of those who Love. From Bolivia our love to you during this joyous season of God with Us.

(Left) Rustic table for Bible and candles. Hanging from the tree is a strip of iron which, when hit with a rock, a rich, deep sound calls the people to their gathering space

(Right) Marina Areco, the catechist, her husband and their grandchild in prayer before eating their portion of the bread broken and shared by the families of the community.

Hermanas Therese, Suzanne, Marge, Mery and Paola 15 Marlu Abarca, a Spanish speaking VISTA volunteer, working for COLLEGE STUDENT AID COMMISSION, was invited by Tricia Christiansen, the Hampton-Dumont counselor, to address parents and students in La Luz Hispana about financial aid available to immigrant parents and their university age students. She emphasized that all high school seniors needed to fill out the FAFSA application, (FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID), and promised to return in January to facilitate the process. Several Hispanic parents and their teenage students journeyed in a Hampton-Dumont school bus to Grandview College in Des Moines and in Ames. Trisha Christiansen, the high school counselor, and Sister Carmen organized the college visits in order to familiarize the visitors with university possibilities and student life on campus. Yeraldy Cortes spoke of the experience as “wonderful and very useful”. Student hosts from Latin American countries explained everything to them in Spanish. She was especially impressed by the scholarships offered by Grandview College to immigrant students. “The food offered to us at Grandview was plentiful, of great variety, and given without charge,” exclaimed Yeraldy. Lightly tinted candles, minute and colorful Christmas balls, tiny wrapped gifts, and miniature Christmas figurines decked a dozen widely spaced tables in the lower level of Hampton State Bank as children and their parents eagerly chose items to decorate their circular evergreens to make a Christmas centerpiece. Michelle Sackville from Carol’s Flower Shop directed the evening activity, and participants were at first surprised that they were invited to decorate their Christmas centerpiece without directions about what and how to do it—“It’s yours, be creative, decide what ornaments you want on your evergreen circlet and just glue it on.” The stunning results and the amazing turnout delighted everyone and made all glad that they were able to use the ample space of the bank basement.

16

Lisa Schmidt offered massage therapy sessions to the women on Friday, December 4. The women were especially grateful for the opportunity to relax tight muscles and diminish tensions. Day after day a number of Hispanic women devotedly returned to La Luz Hispana to fashion fine-looking paper flowers to adorn St. Patrick’s Church in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The paper art entailed folding, cutting, and gluing the paper, a talent definitely related to the art of origami. The plenteous smaller flowers flourished in brilliant rose, red, yellow, light blue and orange hues. These were carefully affixed to a wire grotto housing the colorful image of Our Lady of Guadalupe in the church. The larger flowers, shaped like tri-colored poinsettias were made to adorn the walls near the Eucharistic altar. The hours and days that the women dedicated to this task, their vigilant and nimble-fingered exertions, and the jubilant spirit of their gatherings spoke evocatively of the centrality and intimacy of “La Guadalupana” to their spirituality. The awe-inspiring drama of Juan Diego and his encounter with Our Lady of Guadalupe were enacted by the children: Our Lady of Guadalupe, Juan Diego, Bishop Zumarraga, and the bishop’s assistants. The narrators and the voices of the actors were supplied by adult voices at the microphones. Another new initiative for this year’s Guadalupe feast was the preparation of Mexican dances in honor of the venerated patroness of Mexico. The inspiration sprang from the performance of Los Niños de Tepeyac from Des Moines on November 1. Many of the women, as well as Sister Carmen, called around the Hampton area searching for the skirts, hats, and other dance costumes used by performers of earlier years. One of the results of this pursuit was the obvious conclusion that most of the colorful skirts would have to be prepared by the women themselves. Since the Barlow Family Foundation Grant had provided three new sewing machines, several women decided that they would make their own colorful skirts, and also those for their daughters, all trimmed with ribbons in splendid colors. The women also downloaded the music for the dances and practiced in the evenings under the proficient directorship of a former adept dancer, Yeraldy Cortes. After the Mass celebrated by Father Bernard Grady, for which the Hispanic people invited the entire city, the Hispanics and an immense number of others shared an abundant variety of foods: tamales, enchiladas, spaghetti, salad, fried chicken, rice, cheese cake, chocolate and much more. One of the objectives of La Luz Hispana is the integration of the Hispanic and Anglo community. The presence of non-Hispanics on this sacred occasion partially fulfilled this expectation.

17 From the Heart of a Mother Hotel Hope Update As I spoke over the phone, December 2015 desperately in need of

money for a place to stay, Lights Shines Sister Julie asked if we could meet so that I

could share more of my story with her. I had a terrible head cold and I was achy. The last in the Darkness thing I wanted to do was meet to talk with  someone. Sister Julie suggested that I call her On December 2, Archbishop Aymond and back in the morning when I hopefully would be feeling better to set up a time to meet. faith leaders from the New Orleans Area gathered for an interfaith service for people who are homeless. The service of The next day I probably called her back earlier than she had expected. I was in a light remembered the people who died panic. The hotel where my two children, my on the streets over the past year. fiancée and I had been staying for the past month had evicted us. The children were in Participants were inspired by the witness school, thank goodness, yet we had no place of Mr. Ed Hayes who spoke about his to go once they came home. I was six months struggles on the streets and the blessings pregnant. Although my fiancée has had two of the help from the ministries at the jobs, we couldn’t make it work. Rebuild Center where others assisted him in finding housing and other Sister Julie told me to calm down, walk to services. the nearest café and she would call me right back. Within the hour she had given At the conclusion of the service all us the names of two people who run the present recommitted themselves to New Orleans Catholic Worker House. serving the poor by praying and lighting a Although they had just moved to town, candle. they were very interested in helping. They asked to meet us to see if we would be a good fit for community living.  Sister Julie assures me that finding housing With the help of generous donors, HOTEL HOPE received $102,500 on Giving for a family is not easy. Because my Tuesday during the first #iGiveCatholicDay in the Archdiocese of New Orleans! fiancée has some income we qualify for

Rapid Re-housing assistance. Sister Julie and Sister Mary Lou have connections all May these holy days bring you over the city that have provided us with the services we need. Christmas peace, hope and joy. May your New Year be happy and I never thought this would happen to me. The most important thing in my life is my holy. Thank you for your prayers and family. I fear most the possibility of my support of our mission at Hotel Hope. family having to stay on the streets – being Sr. Mary Lou Specha and Sr. Julie Marsh homeless. I do dream, however, that my life will get better. The hardest thing for me to deal with at times is the conflict that arises between my family and friends. They Interested in becoming involved? just don’t understand that I am trying the

Contact: best I can for me and my kids. Mary Lou Specha, PBVM Executive Director We are most grateful for the help Hotel 4222 South Broad Hope has been able to give. Sister Julie New Orleans LA 70125 www.hotelhope.org Marsh and Sister Mary Lou Specha of Hotel Cell: 504-715-9798 Hope have directed us to much needed www.facebook.com/hotelhope.nola [email protected] resources: personal supplies, clothing, transportation, and, of course, housing. We

Hotel Hope Update is a monthly sharing with Dubuque PBVM Sisters and Associates. have been truly blessed. ̶ Kendra Charles Communications Team: Mary Lou Specha, PBVM; Julie Marsh, PBVM; Beth Kress, PBVM

This Advent season has new meaning for me as I continue to wait for the Lord to open the paths for me among the Hispanics in this HOME project. I may not have huge numbers in our Bible sharing in Dyersville, (which just began) Petersburg, Cascade and Farley, but I know that those who come want to be there, and hopefully, as the word passes, others will join us. These gatherings often lead to other things--phone calls to realtors, visits to homes and schools, etc. My continual prayer is: Lord, use me as you wish to be a light for the Hispanics of this area.

December 9 was the feast of St. Juan Diego and Dyersville had a celebration for that. The usual English evening Mass at the basilica was in Spanish, followed by sharing of typical Mexican food, which the principal of Xavier and his staff organized. I have been helping the young woman who plays the guitar, as well as the music teacher at Xavier, who is teaching the students some of the Spanish songs. I am sure this bringing of the English-speaking and Spanish-speaking communities together may lead to further collaboration as the months progress. On December 11, the vigil of Guadalupe, I will be going to Hennessy School in Petersburg to talk to the students and teach a song about Guadalupe. Then Father O'Connor is going to get some Mexican sweet breads for the students to share and I have found some lollipops and Mexican candies. Since many of the people in this area go to St. Patrick's in Dubuque for Mass each Sunday in Spanish, they will go there for the Guadalupe feast as well. I am hoping that by next year we will have established a weekly Spanish Mass, which will enable us to form a community and organize a Guadalupe celebration, as well as the nine nights of posadas in the various towns. I have heard that this year the posadas have been organized in Cascade. It is amazing to me how the Hispanics who truly want to keep their traditions and pass them on to their children and grandchildren. So there are already built-in leaders in each community, which the principals of the Catholic grade schools have identified for me. My role, as I see it, is to observe and participate, and possibly expand from Cascade to other areas next year and invite the English-speaking community to share this tradition. .

There are three pregnant women in the Bible sharing groups--two will deliver in December or early January, so I am conscious of Mary in these Advent weeks of waiting for Christ to be born. The third woman, who is 40, is having complications in her pregnancy, and often just needs a listening ear, as she shares her worries and concerns about having a baby with serious health problems. The doctor told her she needs complete bed rest these next four months, and since she helps support her family, and works in a factory in Farley with her husband, she is having a difficult time. Fortunately, she is blessed with a 13 year old girl and a six year old boy, and at least the former can help her with some of the household jobs.

As Robert Frost states so well, "I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep...,” and I am grateful that God is allowing me to be a part of the lives of the Hispanics and that the community is supportive of me, financially and spiritually, as I go out each day to the winding lanes. Paula

19

PRESENTATION CALENDAR OF EVENTS

20 PRAYERS

November 20 – December 18

12/11 Please pray for my sister-in-law, Susan, who has Parkinson's disease. She will have a procedure called "Deep Brain Massage" on December 18 in Kansas City. This procedure has proved to be helpful for many others who suffer with Parkinson's. She will greatly appreciate your prayers for peace and a good result. Thank you, Carol Witry, Associate

12/10 After a trip to the hospital, test results showed fluid on the lungs which is being treated by medication. I am glad to be home. Thank you for your prayers. Sister Annette Skyles

12/6 Sister Mary William Allen went peacefully to her eternal reward this morning. May she rest in peace.

11/25 Please continue to pray for my sister, Jeanne Kress, who was discharged from Finley Hospital in Dubuque Tuesday afternoon. After a number of tests and medication adjustments, she is much better. With doctor's orders and many prayers she gracefully transferred to a local care facility and is now receiving the needed nursing care. Sister Beth Kress

21