Lisle Benedictine Women Vol. 34, No. 2 Sacred Heart Monastery December 2011

Message from the Prioress… Dear Friends,

It is with great pleasure that this Advent/Christmas LBW continues to come to you with a promise of prayer which includes a novena of Masses for your intentions. Be assured that we are grateful for your presence and participation in our lives.

Many of our Sisters were able to experience the viewing of the Women and Spirit traveling exhibition on display at the Center for History in South Bend, Indiana. We want to express our gratitude to Hoffman Planning-Design-Construction for providing us with tickets to view this display. The whole experience of reliving the story of Religious Women’s history and contributions to American history over the past 300 years was profound. It made me feel very proud to be Benedictine and to be a part of this story. It also reminded me of the generous persons like you, who helped us make these contributions a reality. Your prayers, your encouragement, your help and financial support have been and are greatly appreciated.

This experience has energized me to provide opportunities for us to tell our stories to you, and invite you to visit us and hear our stories. To do this, I have invited Sister Judith Sutera, a Benedictine and monastic historian, from Mount St. Scholastica Monastery in Kansas to give us a presentation about the story of the struggles and successes of Sister Benedicta Riepp, the first Benedictine woman to come to America, on Saturday, March 10, 2012, at 9 am.

Additionally, have you ever wondered what we do at the Monastery? Who are those Sisters? What does it mean to be Benedictine? Come visit with us at our Open House on Sunday, March, 18, 2012, at 2 pm. This time together will include a presentation of our coming to Chicago and then to Lisle. Your visit will include a tour of our Monastery, light snacks and a tour of our retirement community, Villa St. Benedict.

Finally, I invite you to a day of spiritual reflection with us at our “Come and See” on Sunday, March 25, 2012 from 7:30 am to 3 pm. During this time you will experience our Morning Prayer, Eucharistic Celebration, a meal, a presentation on “The Benedictine Way”, and a time for sharing in the afternoon.

You are invited to one or all of the above, but we need to know that you plan to attend. To RSVP, please call 630-750-6010.

Keep in touch with our website www.shmlisle.org or give us a call at 630-750-6010 for continued information.

May the peace that Christ came to bring be yours!

Sister Mary Bratrsovsky, OSB Prioress

~ ~ ~ INCLUDED ININ THIS ISSUE ~ ~ ~ 1 Message from the Prioress 8-15 Donor Acknowledgement 2-3 Jubilee Celebrations 16 In-Kind Gift Donors 4 BSSH History, continues 17-18 Here and There 5 Oblate Information 19 Villa St. Benedict Vocation Invitation Women of Faith for Justice 6 Our Sisters in Warren 20 Special Invitation 7 Let Us Pray the Psalms 22 Prayer Card form

1 We Celebrate Our Jubilarians

It is a year for multiple Jubilee and later the Eucharist. I am one of the cantors. celebrations at the Monastery. We are After retiring from teaching the primary grades back pleased to share some thoughts from in 1989, I was delighted to be offered a new ministry of serving the elderly Sisters in the St. Walburga our Jubilarians. Care Center here in the Monastery. I have been

Sister Mildred Slabenak involved in serving others all my life and now my celebrates 70 years as a heart is willing to serve these Sisters as I keep watch professed Benedictine Sister that all is well. Ministering to them is for me a and shares her thoughts on rewarding experience. When I observe their Jubilee. difficulties of mind and body, I can see the face of Jesus in His agony and I believe these Sisters are “Jubilee is a time to celebrate, very pleasing to Him.” praise and glorify the Lord with music and song, giving thanks Sister Josephine Kallus (top right in the photo) for the many blessings shares: “God has blessed me in many ways. I have received. been in this Benedictine community for 65 years

Gratitude is shown to loved serving the Lord and the Sisters with my whole heart and soul. ones and those lives I have touched. Their sacrifices and It has been my pleasure to serve the Sisters as a generosity helped bring about success to my chauffeur, driving them to their various destinations. endeavors. I was a beautician before I entered the Monastery

Jubilee is also a time for refueling. Filled with the and I have been able to continue using my Holy Spirit, I am energized and strengthened to beautician skills in cutting and styling the Sisters’ continue living a life of joy, peace and good works. hair in our beauty shop. I now have an assistant who comes once a week and I am grateful for her help.

Another ministry I have is contacting people who had worked for us or have a connection with us. I This is what Jubilee spend time with them on the phone, listening to means to me.” them and consoling them in their sickness or their family concerns. I then ask the Sisters to keep them Sister Virginia in prayer as every morning we pray for all those for Kallus (on the left in whom we have promised to pray. the photo) writes: I am most grateful to God for giving me the graces “My life has been a and health to live a life of prayer and service in this very happy one. I Benedictine community.” just celebrated my

65 year anniversary Sister Mary Patricia Fallon (in the center of the as a vowed religious photo) shares: “From my youth to the present time, I and every day I have found fulfillment in living in this Benedictine praise the Lord for community, immersed in our sacred liturgies. calling me to the Benedictine life. I found excitement and anticipation as I embarked

Every day I keep in on my variety of ministries: teaching grades K-8 for step with our 20 years; serving as an administrator at three community prayer life being present for Divine Office schools; over 25 years as Secretary of our

2 We Celebrate Our Jubilarians

God’s greatest blessing to me is the gift of being a Community and Corporation; in leadership of member of this Sacred Heart community.” formation of Sisters in simple vows; to my years of retirement and assisting in the Monastery. When I entered this Community, prayers were regularly in Czech. I came from a fine Irish family, but I set about to learn Czech so that I might fully participate. My parents reminded me of their Sister Judith Ann Heble writes: “For me, celebrating marriage vows and told me I was making the same a golden jubilee is a time to look back and count all kind of commitment to the Benedictine Sisters. My of the blessings that nine brothers and sisters have gifted me with 140 have been an nieces and nephews over the years. But I have integral part of a full never had one day of regret at my choice in life. life! As I look back on the years since my First Profession in 1961, I give thanks to God for This 65th Anniversary blessing me so has truly been a time to abundantly; to my celebrate my wonderful community for life in this Community.” providing me with Sister De Paul Stava (at so many rich and bottom of photo) writes: fruitful opportunities; and to my colleagues and “This 60th Jubilee year friends for supporting me throughout the years. was a time to give thanks to the Lord for His What can be more delightful than to be able to goodness to me. I enjoy an 18-month sabbatical during my jubilee cannot believe that I just year? Not everyone has that opportunity. It gives celebrated 60 years in me reason to pause and breathe in gratitude and to this Benedictine begin the next fifty years with joy and hope.” community.

I can remember entering in 1949, and the celebrations of 25 years in 1976, and 50 years in 2001.

The Lord has blessed me in so many ways. I pray The Annual Joliet Diocesan Celebration of Religious that I may continue to serve God faithfully for Life and Celebration of Jubilee was held on October whatever years I have left.” 15th at the St. Charles Borromeo Pastoral Center in Romeoville. Bishop R. Daniel Conlon was the Sister Benita Jasurda (at the top of the photo) also celebrant of the Liturgy. Sisters Benita Jasurda, celebrated her 60th Jubilee this year. She shares: De Paul Stava, Jo Anne Form, Joanne Williams, “I would like to give thanks to God, my Benedictine Josephine Kallus, Mary Agnes Kallus, Mary community and my family for the many blessings Bratrsovsky, and Virginia Kallus attended the bestowed on me - my education, the ministries Eucharistic Liturgy and meal. Sister Sharon Marie where I have served: administration, teaching, youth Stola, who works in the Office of Divine Liturgy was and campus ministry. also present. Sister Christine Kouba served on the I have also had the opportunity to travel from Lisle committee. to the Holy Land, Rome, Italy, Poland and Slovakia.

3 BENEDICTINEBENEDICTINE SISTERSSISTERS OFOF THETHE SACREDSACRED HEARTHEART TREASUREDTREASURED HISTORYHISTORY ANDAND TRADITIONTRADITION by Sister Barbara Ann Svec, OSB

Part four of our story recalling the early days of the Sisters…

On August 24, 1909 an election of Prioress was held. Mother Mary Nepomucene Jaeger was unanimously chosen Prioress for a term of six years.

Within thirteen years of its foundation the Motherhouse at St. Vitus was hardly able to accommodate the growing community. Therefore 200 acres of land were bought in Lisle. Ground was broken for a new Convent building on October 5, 1910, the feast of St. Placid. That year the foundation was laid. The following spring the building was commenced. During the summer of 1911 the Novitiate was transferred from Chicago to St. Joseph Orphanage in Lisle. On June 16, 1912, the August 5, 1913 cornerstone of the new Convent was solemnly blessed The convent building was blessed by Archbishop Quigley of Chicago. by the Most Reverend Archbishop J. E. Quigley of Chicago. That same year, On April 26, 1919, ten days after Mother September, 1912, the Nepomucene had legally resigned her office, Sister entire Motherhouse and Mary Genevieve Biskup was elected the second all its operations were Prioress of the Sacred Heart Convent, which office transferred to our new she held for six terms. home. During the first four years of Mother Genevieve’s On August 16, 1915, administration, the Community grew to 128 Mother Nepomucene was members. Two years later, on April 27, 1925, Mother re-elected for another Genevieve was re-elected to a second term of office. term of six years. But before the expiration of As was noted in the last issue, quite a few schools her term, during March had been opened and staffed by the Sisters. The 1918, she became ill and parish school traditionally served as a recruiting felt that for the good of ground to the priesthood and religious life. In St. the community it would be Mother Nepomucene Vitus School, the Benedictine Sisters found an better to resign her office. Accordingly, on April 16, appreciable number of postulants, inspired by the 1919, after a service of twenty-four years, Mother sanctity of their mothers or grandmothers. In several Nepomucene, foundress and first Prioress, resigned instances, two or more girls from the same family her office into the hands of the Most Rev. George W. entered the religious life. By their interest in the Mundelein, D.D., then Archbishop of Chicago. young, the Sisters performed a valuable social service in holding together two generations that Mother Nepomucene’s sole concern had been the otherwise might have been separated by a spiritual development of the Community. At the time generation gap. of her resignation the Community numbered ninety- eight Sisters, four novices and five postulants – a total of 107 members. The story will continue in the June 2012 issue of Lisle Benedictine Women.

4

Celebrating Our Lay Vocation as Oblates of St. Benedict By Sister Karen Nykiel, OSB

Benedictine life is life immersed in the holiness of the “real;” fundamental parts of “real” are prayer and work. Our Prayer life, Lectio Divina, can be difficult on our own, but when we gather together to share God’s Word - this Word comes alive. This is how we begin our time together…reflecting on the day’s Word. When we leave, we are spiritually strengthened to meet the demands of the rest of our “real” world: our family, our community, and our work.

These past few months we have prepared ourselves for the coming changes in the 3rd edition of the Roman Missal. It will take a little getting used to; however, we are fortified with the Scripture background as well as the deeper meaning presented. Benedict’s opening word in the prologue “Listen” takes on new meaning as the New Liturgical Year approaches.

In months to come we will once again visit the Prologue in its entirety. We always welcome new members. Are you interested? Come and see. We meet on the third Sunday of the month here at Sacred Heart Monastery, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Want to know more? Contact Sister Karen Nykiel at 630-725-6049 or by email at, [email protected].

Jesus said to Mary of Magdala: “Woman, who are you looking for? John 20:15 Is Jesus asking the same question of you but you cannot recognize His voice? Would you like to discern His call with someone?

Learn more about how you can do this at www.shmlisle.org or contact Sister Christine at [email protected] or call 630-725-6080 Jesus and Mary Magdalene at the tomb fresco by Fra Angelico

5 Queen of Heaven Monastery - Our Sisters in Ohio

On February 2nd, the We invite you to meet our Sisters in Warren. We begin 42nd anniversary day with Sister Julia Rohaly, OSB. She is pictured in May of the Sisters’ 2010 as she celebrated her Golden Jubilee of religious Byzantine Foundation profession. in Warren, Ohio, they settled into their new Sister Julia was born in Harbor Creek, Pennsylvania quarters at the Infant and grew up in Erie. of Prague Manor. Her parents were Saints Peter and Paul George and Julia Byzantine Catholic Pirlock Rohaly, both Church is next door. deceased. Her brothers were John, Their monastery and William, and Michael, grounds on Squires and her sister was Lane were sold to the Orthodox Coptic Church of the Anna Bulles, all Eparchy of Alexandria, Egypt. It will be used as a deceased. convent for Orthodox Coptic Nuns. She attended Many of the Squires Lane chapel furnishings and elementary and high appointments were taken to the chapel at Infant of school in Erie and Prague Manor. The Foundation Cross was placed by worked for a number the front door of the of years at General Squires Lane monastery Electric. She entered under the patronal icon Sacred Heart Convent in Lisle, Illinois and made of the Dormition of the profession of vows on July 26, 1960. She was a Mother of God. charter member of Queen of Heaven Monastery of the Byzantine Rite which was founded in 1969. The Sisters are actively involved at SS. Peter and Early in religious life, Sister Julia cooked for the Sisters Paul Parish. They teach at the motherhouse in Lisle and at missions in Eastern Christian Chicago. She also cooked for the Sisters when they Formation classes came to Warren. She then worked in food service at organized by Sister Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital in Warren until 1983 Agnes Knapik. Sister when she retired. She baked prosphora for Saints Barbara Pavlik serves as Peter and Paul Church and the monastery for many the Parish Secretary. years. At the same time she ministered in the care of infants and children and to home-bound adults. In August, Sisters Mary Bratrsovsky, Agnes Ann Svec, Christine Kouba and Sharon Marie Stola traveled from Sister Julia continues to enjoy life and God’s blessings. Lisle to Warren, for a day of visiting with the Sisters in She is faithful to community prayer, loves to work with their new home. her plants, and avidly collects and gives away recipes. She enjoys contact with her many nieces and nephews Sister Margaret Mary Shima traveled from Warren to who faithfully keep in touch with her. Sister now Lisle twice this fall. First to attend Sister Judith Ann resides at Windsor House in Champion, a nursing Heble’s Jubilee and later in October for the annual home in a suburb of Warren. Sacred Heart Academy Homecoming celebration. May God grant Sister Julia Rohaly many happy and blessed years!

6 Let Us Pray The Psalms! By Sister Christine Kouba, OSB

Unless Christians are exposed to the Hebrew Scriptures and understand the close relationship the Chosen People had with God, the Psalms might appear strange and archaic. However, to Benedictines the world over, the Psalms are as vital for nourishment as the food they eat; being the basis of their daily prayer uniting them with God in the Liturgy of the Hours. Increasingly, the Psalms are beginning to be more popular among Christians today. They are finding them to be heartfelt prayers that relate to their own human needs and their desire for personal contact with God.

This year, the annual retreat for the Sisters and interested lay people, held from June 27-July 1, 2011, was an in-depth study of the Psalms. Father Adrian Burke, a Benedictine monk from St. Meinrad’s Archabbey in Indiana was the Retreat Master. Father Adrian had wisely mastered the historical, mythological, poetic and theological language and background of the Psalms in his studies and reflections, giving him a natural ability to explain the concepts of these Biblical, inspired prayers in his conferences.

Most importantly, Father Adrian emphasized how God formed a chosen people who would be responsible to remember God’s promises and the great deeds God had done for Israel. These understandings were never to be forgotten and so that they would never forget, they were to teach them to their children and pass them on to future generations. God spoke to them through the Prophets making a covenant (contract) with the people saying: “You are my people and I will be your God.” (Jeremiah 30:22). How intimate and trusting was their relationship with the true God of Israel who was reliable in helping them, whereas, the false gods of other nations were lifeless and helpless as seen in their warfare with Israel.

In remembering the wonderful deeds of God and telling God about their troubles was how the Psalms developed. The Psalms are inspired prayers that were composed by professional cantors who were theologically trained. They gathered the peoples’ intentions of praise for God who was gloriously triumphant, the laments of people in their suffering, expressions of gratitude to God who was always on their side, and sorrow for their offenses against a loving God.

The Psalms were always the prayer of the Kahal, the Jewish worshipping assembly. There was no such thing as a Jew in isolation; the Jews were a People of God gathered together to be present in divine worship. Since there were no printed texts, memorizing the Psalms was critical and these prayers were to be carried forth from the assembly to be recited in their homes.

Jesus was born into this Jewish setting and in growing up he memorized the Psalm texts and often quoted the Psalms in his public life. Even on the cross he quoted Psalm 22: “My God my God, why have you forsaken me?”

Now in the Eucharist during the Catholic worship, the Psalms are used as the center-piece of the Liturgy of the Word. It is with Jesus, who is God, and the Savior of Humankind that we pray the Psalms. We are the People of God and are grateful in that Jesus leads us in prayer. May the Psalms open our hearts to true worship!

7 With grateful hearts, we acknowledge and thank the following donors for their generous gifts July 1, 2010 - June 30, 2011

~ A ~ Natalie Bayci Donald and Susan Bratrsovsky Edwin and Dottie Bebb Pat and Harlan Bratvold George and Helen Ackermann Delores Bebej John and Joan Ann Brazda Michaele Adair Lou and Anne Beccavin Vernon and Helen Breen Virginia Ahern Jerry and Bernadette Becker Dorothe Brennan Ronald and Patricia Aitchison Richard and Lynn Becker Michael and Kathy Brennan Nicholas and Carmela Albachiara Francis and Gloria Bednar William and Barbara Brien Anne Albrecht Peggy Beideman Anna Brigan Chuck and Katherine Allberry Barbara Bekker Dan and Barbara Brochmann Sharon Allport Anne Benitz Donna Bronoski Bob and Jane Ambrose Skip and Rosemary Bennett Joseph and Joanna Brooks Rob and Lori Anderson John and Bernadette Benvegnu Joshua and Caroline Brosmer Gerard and Carolyn Andree Ernie and Rosemary Beran Eleanor Brousil Susan Andrews John Beran Jack and Bea Brown Ed and Patricia Angarone Barbara Beres John and Evonne Brown George and Kathleen Ansier Trudy and Irwin Berg Ken and Jane Brown Steven and Nancy Antonini Carol Ann Bergant Jerry and Joan Broz Michael Arbanas, Jr. Marie Berger John and Dolores Bruno Chuck Argianas Mary Bergman Mary Bruno-Ellis Marian Armbruster Keith and Mary Berkhout Nancy Bruss John and Ellen Arnott Mary Claire Berry Therese Buc Robert and Carol Arthurs LaTanya Berry-Johnson Marie Buchelt Diane Asche Marjorie Beyer Mary Margaret Buckley Alice Aubele John and Barbara Biel Robert and Melissa Buckley Laurence and Diane Austin Richard and Barbara Binder Irene Buckner Tom and Susan Binder Michael and Lynn Budd Mike and Kay Birck LaVerne Budilovsky ~ B ~ Mark and Diane Birkley Eileen Budney

Edwin Bach Robert and Patricia Blackshear David and Kathleen Buettner John and Joan Baier John and Barbara Blair Tom and Wanda Burdett Eddie and Molly Bailie Eleanor Blankenship Barbara Buri Robert and Anne Bailie George and Regina Block Ken and Judy Buric John and Helen Baker Carol Blum David and Tricia Burk Phyllis Baker Rosalie Bobal Mike and Catherine Burke Raymond and Dolores Baker Brand and Mary Ann Bobosky Dave and Patricia Burke Frank and Dolores Balaja Kenneth and Gloria Bochenski John and Nancy Burns Joan Bales Ted and Dolores Bochniarz Kevin and Stacey Burns Blanche Baley Eleonor Bock Anne Burton Robert and Dolores Balla John and Valerie Bockrath Ed and Kay Burton Carol Ballak Ken and Chris Boeschen Donald and Didi Buttitta

Robert and Stella Banks Dolores Bogolin MaryLou Bara Marge Bogolin ~ C ~ William and Sandra Barclay Brian and Janet Boland Philip and Regina Barden Patrick and Beatrice Boland Eugene and Beatrice Cabanski Elaine Barkei Leonard and Anna Mae Bolbat Benedict and Helen Cabay Saundra Barkman Antoinette Boraca Martin and Carol Cain Jill Barrett Lorraine Borek Ethel Cajthaml Kevin Barrett Clementine Borszcz Angelo and Lisa Calvello Patrick Barrett Daniel and Mary Ellen Boryca Clem and Mary Campbell Marie Bartolotta Dolores Bourgeois Rod and Kris Caniglia Ruth Barton Ethel Bowman Lois Caprata Jane Bates Bob and Eileen Boyda Gloria Caracello Toni Baumgartner Larry and Roseann Brady Bob and Deborah Cargo Baumgartner Construction, Inc. Barbara Braico Judie Carlisle

8 Donor acknowledgement (continued)

Bradley Carlson David Cupal Leon and Helen Dudzik Kevin and Lori Carlson Betty Cutilletta Andrew and Mary Dugenske Joan Case William and Sallie Duncan Pete and Kitty Castator ~ D ~ Ron and Mary Ellen Durbin Catholic Diocese of Joliet Jean Durnik David and Barbara Catrone Joe and Carolyn Dalpiaz John Durso Helen Caveny Alice Darda Mary Jean Dwyer Marilyn Cawiezel Thomas and Wanda Dardis Jonathan and Amy Dye Larry Cena Marc Davilo Bernie Dziedzic Kim Cernek Jean Davis Mark and Irene Cesa Joan DeBock ~ E ~ Gary and Carol Chandler Larry and Naomi DeCaluwe Charles and Elaine Chase Judith Dedina Ray Ecker Norbert and Catherine Chesta Vicky DeLeon Robert Eder Yvonne Chicoine Steve and Loretta Denes Judi Egan Helen Chikow Donald Dennerlein John Egermann Ellen Chobot Michael and Rita Derry Esther Egger David and Karen Choie Ron and Mary DeSando James and Bernadette Egr John and Sung Eun Choie Mary DeStefano Marjorie Ehrenberger-Bauhs John and Joan Chojnowski Dan and Kathleen Devine Gary and Elizabeth Elmen Dennis and Sharon Christenson Robert and Joan deVito Peggy Elrod Lois Cichowski Anthony and Kathy DiCristina Helen Ercegovac James and Teodosia Cinert Jennifer Diedrich Mary Ercegovac Rosaria Cinquegrani Catherine Diggle William and Lynn Esser Malcolm and Beverly Clark Ray and Ruth Dillon Margaret Evans Mary Clark Al and Barb Dinon Robert and Marlene Clark Thomas and Donna Dirienzo ~ F ~ Judith Clendenen Jim and Mary Dite Corinne Cloppas Stasia Dobrowolski John and Marcia Fagan Sue Cole Walter and Carolyn Dockus Celeste Fallon Don and Lou Collins Theresa Dohler John and Diane Fallon John and Rosemary Collins Ray and Marion Dolan Mary Fanelli Jack and Annette Colombo Terry and Janet Doll Dorothy Farley Margaret Colucci Betty Doman Norb and Jacque Farnaus Joan Colucci-Turos John and Linda Donahue Rosemarie Farrell Georgine Condon Gus and Lucy Donckers Tom and Nellie Fassbender Irma Conley Marie Donofrio Angela Fay William and Mary Lee Conley Suzanne Doolin William and Marion Fayta Mary Connell Nancy Doran Tony and Patti Fedie Michael and Lisa Connelly Joe and Laura Dorenkamp Joe and Eileen Fedinec Peg Connolly Sabina D'Orio Martin and Gloria Feeney John and Michaelene Conrad James Dority Jim and MaryAnn Ferolo Shirley Conrad Bill and Loretta Dougherty Sal and Jan Ferreri Therese Corcoran Judith Douville Richard Fey Mary Corel Elaine Dow Gidia Fiaoni Bob and Helen Corsentino Michael Dow Robert and Diana Fichter Violet Cosentino Irene Dowbak Rose Fico Louis and Irene Costello Phil Downey Ray Filipiak Frank Coughlin Kevin and Jane Doyle Jose and Jeanette Finete Steve and Joanne Coutchie Richard and Mary Ann Drapeau Donn and Dolores Fisher Natalie Couvillon Richard and Sandra Drapeau Marlene Fisher Richard and Darlene Crilly Jerry Drevalas Edward and Cynthia Fitzgibbon Georgia Crouch Laura Drew John FitzMaurice Michael and Elise Crowell Kay Drozdek Virginia Fleege John and Jacki Cullen Victor and Mildred Dubina Lillian Fleming

9 Donor acknowledgement (continued)

Len and Joan Fletcher Marilyn Gose Terry and Ernest Herzog Jack and Roseann Flowers Marie Graiziger Mary Ann Hester Alice Flynn Richard and Patti Grantner Madalyn Higgins Dennis and Margaret Flynn Jarie Granton Dave and Mary Ann Hiles Bill and Carla Focke Art and Carole Gravelle Carla Hill Colette Foley Marie Gray John and Dorothy Hinds Michael and Mary Foley Gwedolynn Greenley Gerald and Carol Hinterlong Bill and Rosemary Foley Charlie and Brenda Gregory Joseph Hlado Elio and Mary Elizabeth Fornatto Clyra Gregory Florence Hlava Eleanor Fousek Anna Grepling Edwin and Carol Hlavac Gerard and Jeanne Fox Steve Grobl John and Barbara Hocking Emil and Frances Foytik Kathleen Grush Wendy and Francis Hodowal Gerri Framburg Joan Guido Catherine Hofstetter Benjamin Frana, Sr. Clara Gumienny Paul and Therese Hogan John and Elenore Franke Don and Maureen Gushurst Jerome and Adella Hohmann David and Helen Fraser Bernadette Guzzy-Blaurock Harold and Marilyn Holmes David and Mary Fritz Eleanor Holt Dorothy Fritz John and Roberta Holt ~ H –I ~ Eugene and Anne Holubowicz Margaret Fullmer Ann Honiotes Betty Haake Andy Honiotes, Jr. Dick Haas ~ G ~ Harriet Hora Tom and Joan Haffner Richard and Mary Jean Horna Catherine Gacek Mark and Kathleen Halligan Rosemary Horne Joanne Gajda John Halloran Gen and Ralph Houck Robert and Darlene Galgan John and Rose Hamerla Kenneth and Judy Hougas Joe Gallagher James and Linda Hammond Bert Hrnicek Bill and Margie Gamboney Roy and Gael Hanauer Eleanor Hrody Rita Gangolf Barbara Hanchin Edward and Rosemarie Hrzenjak Kenneth and Dorothy Garhan Grace Hanley Thomas Hrzenjak Mary Garvin Ray and Peggy Hanley Jim and Dorothy Huggins Shirley Gasdick Christine Hannigan-Wiehn Edward and Mary Hustoles John and Frances Gattuso Joe and Janet Hantsch Joyce Hutchinson William and Bernadine Gawron Rita Harrigan Roselyn Hynes James Gefre Joe and Sue Harsa Joanne Geist Richard and Penny Harter Arlene Gelfo Daniel and Dianne Harvanek ~ J ~ Jeanette Genger Marty and Blanche Hatch Dolores Gephart Warren and Bonnie Hatch Brian and Lisa Jablonski Carlene Gerlich Ed and Ann Hatfield Dolores Jablonski Alfred and Agnes Geyer Helen Havlik Ron and Charlotte Jablonski Joseph and Christanna Geyer Elizabeth Hayes Ann Jablonsky Jim and Deede Gilfillan Jim and Judy Healy Len and Louise Jachim Mary Gilhooly Alberta Hebert Kathleen Jaeger Will Gillett Gerry and Eileen Heble Ed and Carol Jakstavich Marjorie Gilmartin Dorothy Heinen Frank Jallits Paul and Audry Girard Joan Helie Barbara James Jerome and Linda Girsch Helen Helis Irvin Jana John and Mary Glas Beth Hemzacek Irene Janda Don Golminas Patricia Heneghan Phyllis Janis Miguel Gomez Bob and Audrey Henigman Kathy Jankovic Victor and Elsie Gonda Hal and Mary Ann Henry Judy Janousek Stanley and Irene Gondek Carol Hepler Ray and Shirlee Jasien Guillermo and Ofelia Gonzales Michael and Beth Hernandez Ed and Lori Jasurda John and Sara Gordon Jaime and Maria Isabel Hernandez Frank and Donna Jasurda John Gore Tim and Margaret Herter Ron and Maryellen Jasurda

10 Donor acknowledgement (continued)

Shirlee Jecmen Catherine Keating Barbara Koth Joseph Jenista Angie Kec Jim and Marilyn Kothmann Doris Jennings Emmett and Dorothy Keenan Lois Kouba John and Marge Jensik Mary Keenan Grace Koukol Sarah Jensik Kathleen Keilty Jeanne and Laddie Koutsky Ken Jentzsch Bob and Barb Kelly William and Carol Kowaleski Jack and Jo Jerak Virginia Kelly David and Marilynne Kowalski Jerry and Carol Jeslis Jack and Regina Kelzer Helen Kozelsky Alo Jha Philip and Patricia Kemp Richard and Mary Kozerski Julia Jilek Dorothy Kenny Kathleen Kozisek Rose Jirasek Stanley and Jeanette Kerka Sonia Kozlowski Mary and Blanche Jirka Mike and Terry Kerner Georgiana Kral Eugene and Virginia Jobin Susan Kessel Irene Kramer Scott and Jen Johannsen Ralph and Carol Keyes Walter and Marlene Krawczyk Lillian Johnson Rosemary Kibby William and Marie Krejci Margaret Johnson Joseph and Joan Kilbride Rosemary Kretschmann Margaret Jumer Mary Ann Kilbride Kirk and Marlene Kreutzig Helen Jun Kyunghak and Ann Kim Bernice Krippner Ruth Jung Francis and Rosemary King John and Marie Kristofick Mary Ann Jurasek Ed and Beverly Ann Kinnick Leonard and Caroline Kristufek John and Dorothy Jurcenko Charles and Martha Kinsey Patricia Krolik Jerome and Dolores Jurevis Walter Klaviter Bob Krone Ed and Virginia Klepac Ron and Betty Krupp ~ K ~ Mildred Klima Frank and Maryan Kruppe Pat and Elmer Klima Michael and Jeanne Kruppe Hal and Ann Kabbe Arlene Klus Mike and Lorraine Krzywosz Cindy Kadela Thomas and Dorothy Kmieciak Chester and Bernardine Kubiak Tess Kadow Barbara Knierim Joseph Kucan Joel and Laurie Kagann James and Rina Knight Archbishop Daniel Kucera, OSB Jan and Rob Kahl Christopher and Sandra Knight Bea Kuhn Winifred Kale Loretta Kodatt Ed and Karen Kuhn Albert and Irene Kalina Grace Koehler Sidney and Joyce Kulek Kamile Kalina William and Diann Kohley Ed and Sharon Kulik Kenneth and Maureen Kallen Lisa Kohout Wayne Kurchina Bobby and Lillian Kallus Lois Jean Kohout Greg Kurkjian Lawrence and Bernice Kallus Eileen Koller Anita Kvitek Judy Kaniewski Jerry Kolpa Alejandro and Prudence Kapauan Connie Komoll ~ L ~ Bruce and Sharon Ann Karel Raymond and Annette Koncar Carol Karvon Angeline Konopa Ladies Auxiliary, Robert P. Betty Kasap Ethel Konopa Connelly Council 5918 James and Joan Kaspar Norbert and Martha Konopa Mary Laemmrich Edward and Donna Lee Kasuba Florence Kordowski Dona Laketek Donald and Cathy Kazak Robert and Elizabeth Kosin Tony and Helene Lamarre Darlene Kazak Bo and Jacqueline Kosteck Dick and Sue Lamb Hugh Kazer Joseph and Darline Kotalik Jim and Sue Lambke

It is with sincere appreciation and gratitude that we realize a generous gift as a basic grant from the National Religious Retirement Office, (NRRO). Thank you for contributing to the December 2010 collection for the Retirement of Religious.

11 Donor acknowledgement (continued)

Penny Lampe Jane Manning Nick and Celeste Minarich Jackie Lancaster Miriam Mannix Andrew Mireles Marion Lancaster Corinne Marcello Isabel Misak Lloyd and Carole Langlie Andrew and Mary Marchese Eleanor Mitchell Carol Lapham Frank and Jeanette Marchese Tom Mitchell Donna Larney Irene Marcinkus Ron and Cynthia Mitiu John and Fran LaRock Carl and Mary Anne Marker Patricia Mitlyng Oscar and Rose Larson Richard and Richard Marker Roberta and Vincent Modaff Betty Ann Latoza Francis and Rosemary Markun John and Jean Moeller Jack and Barbara Lausch Chris and Cynthia Marler Orrin and Mary Jean Moen Marianne Layden Stephen Marth Bill and Anna Marie Moncrief Edward and Florence Lazzari Alice Martin Arthur and Audrey Moore Neil Leary Jerry and Chris Martin Florence Moore Michael and Patricia Leavy Terese Martinka John and Gayle Moravecek Mary LeBel Anita Masters Robert and Ida Moravecek Gary and Colleen Ledvora Andrew Masura Joseph and Connie Morello Roger and Dianne Lee Eleanore Mate Nancy Morman Mildred Leff Paul and Marion Mate Bob and Regina Morris Robert and Mary Lein Greg and Marianne Matecki Stephen and Georgiann Morrissey Elaine Leisten Teresa Matlock Doreen Moskal Harry and Margaret Lenard William and Virginia Mattison James and Mary Muller Father Jim Lennon Sharon Mays Brian and Gisela Mulligan Eileen Lestina Julie Mazur Jim and Sarah Mulloy John and Kathryn Levock Frank and Karen McAleenan Carol Mulvihill James and Patrice Lia John and Joan McAvoy Jim and Jean Murphy Wanda Ligos McBride Engineering, Inc. Dorothy Myers Ed Lindemann Lillian McCadden Larry Link George and Kathleen McConaghy ~ N ~ Walter and Veronica Liptak Chuck and Mary McDonough Therese Liu Edward and Mary McFadden Mary Ann Naas Patricia Long Francis McGovern Brian and Cindy Naberhaus Mary Lorenzo Chuck McGowan Glen Narducci Bob and Marion Lorr Marian McGrath Kathy Nartnick James and Margaret Lorr David and Rita McIntyre Ronald and Madeline Nasharr Edward and Karen Lucke Roger McKee and Diane Zurbriggan Nancy Neal Donna Luczak Jean McKenney Jean Nedelsky Carol Lukowski Dick and Bernice McKillip Father Cy Nemecek Ginny Lullo Denise McMonagle Dave and Cathy Nettleton Francis and Mary Luzbetak Jane McNamara Charles and Jean Nickelman Jim and Mary McParland Diane Nilan ~ M ~ Ralph and Pam Meeker Eleanor Nilan Dave and Carol Mejdrich Jean Noel Frank and Rose Mary Macek, Jr. Gary and Patti Menconi Mary Margaret Norman Robert and Jeanne Maday Vic and May Mesco Jerry and Denise Norton Tom and Pam Mader John and Marcia Metrick Richard and Linda Novak Michael and Sandra Maenner Raymond and Marie Metz Annie Novak Joe and Rebecca Magera David and Rita Meyer Joseph and Vera Novak Gerry and Karen Maguire Ken and Barbara Meyer John and Kathleen Novotny Ruth Maicke Anthony and Sandra Michelin Lillian Novotny Bill and Carmen Mains Marianne Miklas Mary Nunke Ann Malek Rich and Irene Miksanek Emily Nykl Arlene Malloy Andrew Mikuska Eugene and Marge Malloy Marianna Mikutis Joan Maloney Evelyn Militz Miles and Tracy Maloney Bob and Mary Millar

12 Donor acknowledgement (continued)

~ O ~ Tom and Betty Pierce Alba Rigoni Gerald and Jean Pilot William and Betty Rigsby, Jr. Dennis and Bernadette Oblak Charles and Loretta Pipek Lucille Riordan William and Linda Obscherning Robert and Janet Pircher James and Sarah Rocuskie Angela and Nina O'Connor Denis and Jayne Piscitelli Bruce and Ellen Rodman Eleanor O'Connor Ceil Plese Marianne Roenna Elizabeth O'Connor Clifford and Linda Pliml Pauline Rog James and Barbara O'Connor Charles and Joan Pluchar Dick and Jo Rogan Nina O'Connor Edward and Maureen Plucinski Josephine Rogers Steve and Deb O'Connor Jean Pochop Bill and Renee Rohlfing Rosemary Oddo Bob and Dianne Pogwizd Jim Rongaus Fred and Mary O'Donnell Joe and Rosanne Polich Hugh Ronkowski Charles and Norene O'Donnell Sophia Pomorski Dennis and Terese Ronowski Tom and Margaret O'Grady Joanne Porazinski John and Margaret Rosauer Judith O'Hara Gerard Potter Barbara Roseborough Hal and Charlene O'Keefe Alan and Marilyn Potyen Joellen Rosenquist John and Laura Oller Maureen Poulin Corinne Ross Laura Olson Tom and Cindy Power Richard and Peggy Rostan Dorothy O'Reilly Sheila Prado Rotary Club of Lisle Mary O'Sullivan Bob Preboy Warren and Margarete Roth Joseph and Barbara Ott Anna Prieboy Ola Rozek Our Lady of the Mount Society #143 Joseph and Jean Prieboy Dave and Pam Ruda Richard and Dolores Prince Tony and Margaret Rudnik John and John Provenzano Mary Rudzinski ~ P ~ John and Sue Psenicka Edward and Susan Ruff III Father Tom Purtell William and Joyce Ruhaak Ed and Geralynne Pacana Cele Putz Joanne Rungaitis Lorraine Pachankis John Putz Jeff and Deb Runser John and Cynthia Pacocha Maria Pylypczak Margaret Ruppert Norman and Grace Pacyga Carol Rushing Gerald and Nancy Pajkos Greta Rusk Debbie and Paul Pallardy ~ Q ~ Lila Russavage Robert and Jo Ann Palmer Donald and Joan Russell Evelyn Paluck Ann and John Querfurth Rey and Carol Russo Bernice Paluzzi Joe Ryan Michael and Kathy Panko ~ R ~ Robert and Maureen Ryan Ted and Mary Parks Marie Rybacki Paula Partipilo Jack and Marilyn Radicker Matthew and Frances Rychetsky Ron and Christine Paryl Mollie Rami Jim and Paula Rancilio Allan and Shirley Rzeszutko George and Eleanor Patek Joan and Tom Pattermann John and Dorothy Rapant Richard and Kathleen Paulsen Al and Magdalen Raupp ~ S ~ Georgianna Pavisich Jerry Ravenscroft Eugene and Patricia Pawlik Georgiana Razniewski Ronny Saeman Gene and Therese Payne James and Rita Regis Valerie Saflover Philip and Marita Peffley Virginia Regula Marilyn Sak Ken and Polly Peters Marion and Mary Reis Richard and Janice Sako Bernadette Petrauskas Bill and Angie Rendina Kenneth and Mary Sanders Joseph Petrosko Rosa Rendon Betty Sanger Christopher Pett Sharlin Reynolds Gerry and Connie Santoro-Stanley Richard and Virginia Pevitts Len and Bernie Rhein Paul and Rosemary Sanza Virginia Pfau Shirley Riccetti Marjorie Satterlund Patricia Pfeifer Tom and Fran Rich Mary Sauriol Mary Phillips Terry and Terry Richardson Mike and Martha Savage Richard and Rosemary Phillips Marion Richardson Thomas and Frances Scarpellino Doris Pierce Glenn and Marilyn Riggs Phil and Betty Schaack Patricia Riggs Linda Schaaf

13 Donor acknowledgement (continued)

Sharon Schipiour Marie Sivak Rudy and Mary Strahl Jim and Christine Schlax Rose Marie Skisak Kevin and Lori Strittmatter George and Patricia Schloemer Rita Skowronski Marion Strittmatter Janice Schmid Robert and Nancy Skrok Wayne and Susan Strittmatter Hillard Schmidt Chester Skubiszewski Rosalie Strocchia Jacob Schmidt Dave and Diane Skupien Bob and Rosemary Stromberg John and Gail Schmidt Marianne Slabenak Adeline Stromski Marie Schmidt Larry and Janet Slade Ralph and Beatrice Strozza Catherine Schoellkopf George Sloane Harriet Struck Jack and Donna Schreiber Pete and Mary Sluka Joseph and Jean Stubits Joan Schulthesz William and Marie Sluka Frank and Beverly Studnick Agnes Schultz Dick Smego Lillie Sulak Charles and Paula Schumacher Doris Smego Greg and Rita Sulgit Greg and Diane Schuster Lillian Smietana June Sumeracki Christine and Thomas Schuur Karen and James Smit Nancy Supena Betty Jane Scott Betty Lou Smith Walter and Joyce Sura Greg and Kathy Scriba Raymond and Theresa Smith Joe and Lorraine Suster Carolyn Scutella Robert Smith Frank Svec Walter and Catharine Sedlacek Evelyn Smith-Hammond Margaret Svihla Raymond and Joan Seeley Dolores and Harry Smolen John and Bobbie Sweeney Virginia Sefcik Jacqueline Snavely Jerome and Ellen Sychowski Joseph and Evelyn Seliga Elaine Snella Robert and Arlene Sypniewski Manny and Rose Sepeda Don and Joan Snoad Ed and Lorna Szachnit Mary Setlik Ellen Snyder Marty and Susan Szczech Stephanie Sevilla Millard and Joanne Snyder Bernice Szostak Tom and Pat Shanley Mary Ellen Sobieraj Joseph and Michelle Shannon Len and Rose Sodergren ~ T ~ Thomas and Frances Shantz Mauri and Mary Spampinato Ron Sharko Stanley Spera Virginia Taglia Brian and Viki Shaw Loretta Spesia Frank Taranto Ernest and Charlotte Shaw Sara Spittler Donna Tarnowski Addie Shayatovich John and Elizabeth Spokas Gene and Maria Tashjian Betty Shea Jim and Joan Spore Rosanne Taube Birdie Sheahan Cheryl Sporlein Joseph and Mary Taylor Mary Kay Sheetz Ed and Jane Srotyr Margaret Tazioli Susan Shih St. Ludmila's Society #2 Thomas and Linda Teichgraeber Joe and Helen Shimek St. Procopius Abbey Ralph and Jan Thinnes Joe and Linda Shimek St. Scholastica Mission House Betty Thomas Gary and Mary Shipp Michael and Roseann Stachura Ray and Linda Thome Thomas and Dorothy Shirey Michael and Barbara Stance Ken and Chickie Thorne Bernadette Shonka Edward Stanish Jim and Donna Timmer Emerzia Shroba Stanley and Evelyn Stanish Richard Tintera Ferrell and Janice Shuck Herb and Sue Stanislaus Jon and Monica Tischler Layton and Marie Shultz Ernie and Edith Stark Frank and Callie Tobolski Matthew and Susie Shuma Bernice Stavinoha Chuck and Diane Tokarski Eric Shumaker Thomas and Rebecca Stefely Michael and Mary Tomaso John and Dorothea Shuta Cindy Steiner Eva Tomsic Mike and Pam Shuta Karen and Charles Steinke Steven and Deborah Tonissen Roger and Joan Shutes Jay and Mindy Sterns June Tontlewicz Bernadette Siamis John and Marlyn Steury Peggy Torbich Irene Siebecker Tim and Lynn Stewart William Tousek Mike and Margie Siefert Kathryn Stimetz Bob and Patricia Traub Alice Sima Ivan and Linda Stodola Irene Traub Betty Sirek Paul and Marilyn Stodola Thomas and Irene Traub Ray and Evelyn Sirinek George and Irene Stofan Glenn and Margie Trembley Mary Sitar Lester and Odette Stoffel Ed and Cheryl Trogdon

14 Donor acknowledgement (continued)

Therese Trojak ~ W-X ~ Rudy and Lucy Ann Wilczynski Frances Trombino Joseph and Kathy Wildenthaler Edith Troy Frank and Mary Wabiszewski Hubert and Mildred Willmann Helen Trudeau William and Kathryn Wade Richard and Janet Wilmoth Rose Ann Tschoepe Richard and Edith Wagner Marty and Theresa Wiora Joe and Carrie Tuma Kate Wagner Carol Wise Mary Ann Turner Mel and Betty Ann Wagner Jay and Joan Witcher John and Judith Twarogal Chris and Dorothy Walker Catherine Wokas Gloria Tysl Kathy Walker Dorothea Wokas Steven and Patricia Walker Tom and Midge Wolfla ~ U ~ Debra Walker Tom and Mary Ann Wollney Susan Walker Hank and Maggie Woltemade Bill Urban Terrence and Carole Wall John and Helen Wolthuis Dennis and Mary Urban Donald and Sandra Wall Mary Anne Woodcock Edward and Bridget Urban Marie Wallinger Roger and Mary Wozny Tony and Anne Urban Mike and Judy Walsh Peter and Joan Wrenn Frank and Joy Urrutia William Walsh Fran Wroblewski Ronald and Shirley Utley Roger and Mary Ann Walz Roy and Ana Wubker Maria Carmen Uy Vickie Wandolowski Lawrence and Annette Wulffe Lorraine Ward ~ V ~ Thomas and Eileen Ward ~ Y ~ Ward Contracting and Gene and Carmen Valdes Building Restoration Donna Yackley Ann Valek Marion Warner Dolores Yankielun Bonnie Valiant Martha Waszak Jose and Barbara Ybarra John and Aldona Valicenti Joan Weber Hermenegildo and Adela Yu Lois Vallino Ken and Peg Weber Ron and Kathy Yurcus Patricia Van Leeuwen Bess Weglarz Diana Vanderheyden David Wegman ~ Z ~ Joyce VanDuzen Rich and Barbara Weigel John Zagula Dolores Vanecko Joan Weinberg Joseph Zahradnik Carlos and Linda Vargas Chuck and Fran Weiss Fred and Joanne Zak Joseph Vastlik Marie Weiss George Zak Steven Vatch Robert and Doris Weissmann Sebastian and Gloria Zangara Blanche Vedral Michael Welch Joan Zaorski Bob Veles Nancy Welch Loretta Zderad Robert and Jean Verbiscer Scott and Mary Jo Weller Phyllis Zea Steven and Mary Verdick John and Nancy Welling Barbara Zeiler Marilyn Veverka Therese Welsh James Zidlicky Gerald and Marilyn Viator Jean Welty Marion Ziegler David Vidican Joseph and Jean Welty Dennis and Donna Zielinski Alice Vila Albert and Mildred Wendt John and Theresa Zigmond Villa St. Benedict Staff Esther Werner Steve and Karen Zimmerman Anne Vishentas Jean Wesa John Zohimsky Bernadette Viskocil Diane Wettstaedt Theresa Zuchowski Marcella Vlazny Frank and Lucy Whalen Claude and Sue Vodrazka Walter and Roberta Whaling Diane Vogel Jeanette White Joseph Vojacek Paul White James and Joanne Vojahosky Jeffrey and Marisa Whitnell Tony and Helen Vopenka Herman and Maureen Wibben Thomas Votava Albert and Alice Wickler Thomas and Suzanne Votruba Theodore Wickord Joan and Chester Wiczek Don and Rita Wiesbrook

15 In-Kind Gifts - July 1, 2010 - June 30, 2011

Nancy Albrecht Lucille Eberhardt Joan Maloney Eric Shumaker Arbor Printing & Graphics Tom and Nellie Fassbender Cindy Matsko Mike and Pam Shuta Marian Armbruster Jan Foxworthy Mary Mayweather St. Jude Parishioners MaryLou Bara Rita Gangolf Ruth McCarthy St. Procopius Abbey Benet Academy Students Dr. Robert Gorsich Peggy Mersch Virginia Taglia Dennis and Mary Berry Marie Gray Morton Arboretum Tina's Closet, Inc. Sally Campbell Carla Hill Jim and Sarah Mulloy Gloria Tysl Sue Cole Alo Jha Patrick and Maria Murphy Villa St. Benedict Staff Vicky DeLeon Virginia Kluczynski Emily Nykl Kathy Walker Phil Downey Therese Kulikowski Pax Christi Jean and Joseph Welty Kevin and Jane Doyle Edward and Dee Liczwek Jim Rongaus Jean Wesa John Durso Dr. Isabel Lobo William and Joyce Ruhaak Rob Wettstaedt Thomas and Annette Dyba Gerry and Karen Maguire Richard and Janice Sako John and Theresa Zigmond

We sincerely regret any omissions or errors. Please call the Development Office (630 725-6013) with any questions or corrections.

By virtue of our listing in the Official Catholic Directory, the Treasury of the United States has ruled that contributions to the Sisters fully qualify for federal income, estate and gift tax deduction purposes as provided within the law.

The legal title of our monastic community is: Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart Our FEIN is 36-2169170

Persons interested in making special gifts or bequests are asked to contact:

Sister Jo Anne Form, OSB Development Office Sacred Heart Monastery 1910 Maple Ave. Lisle, IL 60532 630 725-6013 [email protected]

Buck and fawn captured in a pose on our campus.

16 and Sister Helen Jilek serve on the Board of Here and There Daybreak. Sister Sharon Marie Stola traveled on the Pallium Pilgrimage to Rome in late June. She was present at the ceremony which conferred the Pallium on His Excellency, The Most Reverend J. Peter Sartain. Bishop Sartain was the Bishop of the Diocese of Joliet before his appointment to the Diocese of Seattle. Sister Sharon Marie is the Director of the Office of Divine Worship for the Diocese of Joliet.

Sister Judith Ann Heble traveled to West Africa in September for the Communio Internationalis Benedictinarum Conference. The members of the Administrative Council began their meeting in Koubri, Burkina Faso, then traveled to Togo where they were joined by the Delegates for their yearly Conference. The Sisters visited a number of monasteries in Benin and Togo with a brief visit to Ghana. Photos and additional information about the CIB can be found at http:// www.benedictines-cib.org. Sister Judith Ann is The Sisters held their annual community retreat serving her second term as Moderator of CIB. the last week of June. Led by Fr. Adrian Burke, Sister Sharon Marie Stola attended the annual OSB from St. Meinrad Archabbey, St. Meinrad, gathering of Benedictine sub-prioresses and Indiana, the topic of this year’s retreat was house coordinators which took place at Psalms as Transformational. The Oblates and Immaculate Conception Monastery in Ferdinand, other friends of the Sisters were invited to Indiana, from September 26-30. participate in the conference sessions each day. Sister Christine has written a reflection on the retreat on page 7.

From August 9 through 12, Sister Mary Bratrsovsky attended the Conference of Benedictine Prioresses (CBP) and Leadership Conference of Women Religious LCWR) in Glendora and Garden Grove, CA. The theme for the LWCR Assembly was Mystery Unfolding: Religious Life for the World.

On August 26, the Sisters welcomed the volunteers from Daybreak of Lisle to the Sister Mary Bratrsovsky traveled to Duluth, Monastery for Vespers and dinner. DAYBREAK Minnesota for meetings at Benedictine Health provides transitional housing and supportive System September 20-22. Kathy DiCristina, CEO services to homeless families with children so of Villa St. Benedict, Jo Jerak, Karen Sherman that they can work toward recovering economic and Lori D’Auben also participated. Villa St. and familial stability. Sister Mary Bratrsovsky Benedict is co-sponsored by the Benedictine

17 Sisters of the Sacred Heart and Benedictine Congratulations to Sister Carolyn Sieg, who has Health System. served as St. Joan’s principal since 1967.

Sister Christine Kouba participated in the Sister Barbara Ann Svec volunteered for the National Benedictine Vocation Directors semi-annual Book Sale at the Lisle Library in Conference in Beech Grove, Indiana from October. Sister Barb has been a member of the October 18-24. Friends of the Lisle Library for over ten years. The proceeds from the book sale are used for programs at the Library throughout the year.

The Vocation Advisory Committee is a group of laywomen and men who meet on a monthly basis with Sisters Christine Kouba, Mary Bratrsovsky, Benita Jasurda and Sharon Marie Stola to share their perspectives on the best ways to attract young women to the Benedictine way of life.

The Sisters were gifted with tickets to view the exhibit, Women & Spirit: Catholic Sisters in America, at the Center for History in South Bend, Indiana. Women & Spirit is a traveling exhibit sponsored by the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) in association with Cincinnati Museum Center. Sisters Agnes Ann Svec, Barbara Ann Svec, Benita Jasurda, Christine Kouba, Helen Jilek, Jo Anne Form, De Paul Stava, Lois Jean Jensik, Lorraine Dyba- Militano, Mary Bratrsovsky, and Sharon Marie Stola enjoyed the fall colors along the Indiana On October 29, the Sisters held a Prayer Service toll road as they traveled to visit the exhibit. at St. Scholastica Cemetery for the deceased Sisters and loved ones of the Community. The The Sisters were again honored to host Vespers cemetery has recently undergone some needed and a special dinner for guests of the Saint repairs and enhancements. A new asphalt Benedict Education Foundation on November 6. walkway was installed; the previous gravel walk The Foundation supports the international was removed and grass planted; the headstones Benedictine university in Rome, Sant’Anselmo. were reset and leveled with gravel. Sisters Mary Bratrsovsky, Sharon Marie Stola Karen Nykiel, and Judith Ann Heble We are excited to announce our Facebook page, represented the Monastery. Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart, and we

St. Joan of Arc School in Lisle won the 2011 invite you to become a friend. National BLUE RIBBON AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION. SJA is one of only 49 private schools and 256 public schools in the nation (elementary, middle and high schools) to win this prestigious award. We welcome your visit to the Monastery to share the peace and beauty of our home and grounds.

18 Villa St. Benedict

Villa St. Benedict is a continuing care retirement community located on the Sacred Heart Monastery campus. Co-sponsored by the Benedictine Sisters and Benedictine Health System in Duluth, Minnesota, Villa St. Benedict is an extension of the BSSH mission of Hospitality. Caring for seniors is the corporate commitment of the Sisters, who founded Queen of Peace Retirement Center, now called the Benedale Center for Assisted Living, which is part of Villa St. Benedict.

Many of the Sisters work and volunteer at Villa St. Benedict. Sister Barbara Ann Svec describes her ministry in this manner.

“When Sister Mary Bratrsovsky was elected Prioress one of the tasks she faced was replacing herself as Mission Integration Director at VSB. She handed over a part of the job to me.

It was a daunting job at first because it involves many different phases. The ministry includes providing opportunities for residents and staff to enhance their understanding of what it means to be Catholic and Benedictine, to infuse the core values of Hospitality, Stewardship, Justice and Respect into our actions and working relationships and to provide for the pastoral needs of residents and staff.

PowerPoint presentations and talks are prepared and presented to accomplish the passing on of much of the information. Religious services are prepared and celebrated regularly. Feasts and seasons are attended to, arrangements are made for funerals and Celebration of Life Prayer Services and much more.

Above all, the residents are visited when they are in hospitals or rehab facilities, or here in their apartments to see if there are any other needs they feel need attention. It isn’t really a “job” because the residents a just a marvelous group of friendly folks.”

Women of Faith for Justice

For the past several months, Sacred Heart Monastery has been the host of a monthly meeting of a group called “Women of Faith for Justice.” The representatives from SHM are: Sisters Mary Bratrsovsky, Karen Nykiel, Helen Jilek and Christine Kouba. There are other Religious Sisters in the group and lay women from the Chicago and Joliet areas.

The focus of the group is to create a space where women of faith can openly address their concerns about injustice and provide opportunities for actions to address them.

Together they meet to pray, share, and affirm one another by using ritual, stories, scripture, and by establishing a sacred space. It is hoped that there will soon be an inclusion of women of different faith traditions; so far the group is of the Catholic tradition.

The contact person is Joyce Ruhaak [email protected]. She is from Joliet, Illinois and is retired from the Peace and Justice Office for the Diocese of Joliet. Please contact her for more information.

19 You’ are invited to these special events in March 2012

Saturday, March 10, at 9 am. a presentation by Sister Judith Sutera, OSB from Mount St. Scholastica Monastery in Atchison, Kansas. Her history themed talk will include the story of the struggles and successes of Sister Benedicta Riepp, the first Benedictine woman to come to America.

Sunday, March 18, at 2 pm, an Open House which will feature a presentation of our coming to Chicago, and then to Lisle. There will be tours of our Monastery, light snacks and tours of Villa St. Benedict.

Sunday, March 25, 2012 from 7:30 am to 3 pm, a day of Spiritual Reflection “Come and See” for persons interested in our monastic way of life. During this time, you will experience our Morning Prayer, Eucharistic Celebration, a meal, a presentation in the afternoon on “The Benedictine Way” and a time for sharing.

The view looking north from (presently) Maple Avenue. Our cupola is still in place.

20 A BENEDICTINE LIVING LEGACY

STEWARDSHIP - GIFTING - HERITAGE

Benefits of making a Planned Gift, which include wills, bequests, life insurance and other estate plans:  Provide a lasting tribute that offers ongoing support for the Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery.  Make a gift today without spending current income or retirement resources.  Realize income tax and future estate tax advantages while providing for your heirs.  Become a partner in ministry with the Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery.  Be remembered in the prayers of the Sisters each day.

The Sisters thank you for considering a bequest to the Benedictine Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery. Your gift will be considered as sacred trust since, according to our Holy Father St. Benedict, we are "to regard all the utensils of the monastery, including property, as if they were the sacred vessels of the altar." (Rule of Benedict, Chapter 31)

Retirement Fund for Religious, December 10-11, 2011

SSHAREHARE Despite the unparalleled generosity of Catholics to the Retirement Fund for Religious, many religious communities continue to lack resources sufficient to support retirement and elder care. There are almost 34,000 religious past age 70 living in IINN the United States. In 2010 alone, the total cost of care for these women and men exceeded one billion dollars. The real challenge for many religious communities is a TTHEHE lack of retirement savings. Most senior religious worked for many years for small stipends, and there were no retirement plans.

CCAREARE The retirement fund of the Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart receives an annual donation from this collection. We thank you for your continued generous support of the Retirement Fund for Religious.

Prayer Cards are available from the Benedictine Sisters.

Mark your special occasions by sending a card from the Sisters. Seven designs are available; all recipients will share in the Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart, spiritual benefits of the Divine Office Lisle can earn a donation every time you proclaimed daily in the search the Internet and shop online. Chapel of Sacred Heart Monastery. Search the web with Yahoo-powered See the next page or our website, GoodSearch.com and we’ll receive a penny www.shmlisle.org, to order, or call donation each time you search! Shop at Sister Jo Anne Form at 630-725-6013 more than 1,300 GoodShop.com merchants and a percentage of each purchase will go the Sisters!

21 Prayer Cards are available from the Benedictine Sisters

Wording inside all cards

REMEMBRANCE The DIVINE OFFICE is ______the Official Prayer of the church will share in the (Vatican Council II) SPIRITUAL BENEFITS proclaimed daily in the Chapel of of the SACRED HEART MONASTERY DIVINE OFFICE by the at the request of BENEDICTINE SISTERS ______Date ______for: ______Prioress

Please place a check mark in the box under the card

you wish to order and complete the following: Card is for :______Suggested Donation: (Name of person) ___$10 (1 month) ____ Living ____ Deceased ___$15 (6 months) Mail Card to:______$20 (1 year) ___Cash ___ Check (Full Name) (Payable to Benedictine Sisters)

Street Number:______

City:______State:_____ Zip:______Please mail form to: Sister Jo Anne Form, OSB Sacred Heart Monastery + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 1910 Maple Avenue Card Requested by: ______Lisle, IL 60532-2164

(Full Name) For additional copies of this form see Street Number:______www.shmlisle.org, or call 630-725-6013

City:______State:____ Zip:______22 Lisle Benedictine Women Sacred Heart Monastery 1910 Maple Avenue Lisle, IL 60532-2164 (630) 725-6000 www.shmlisle.org

Cover Design and Layout Sister Jo Anne Form, OSB Development Assistant Editor Jane Doyle Development Administrator Photographer Sister Lorraine Dyba-Militano, OSB Other Contributors Sister Christine Kouba, OSB Sister Barbara Ann Svec, OSB Sister Karen Nykiel, OSB

Dear Friend of the Benedictine Sisters,

In gratitude to you for showing us God’s love in so many ways, our Christmas gift to you will be a Novena of Masses celebrated

December 25, 2011 - January 1, 2012.

Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart