Spring 2014 Journey page 1

Congregation of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Scranton, PA Vol. 32, No. 1 Spring 2014

Balance Finding and maintaining balance in one’s life is an ongoing challenge. So many demands—work and ministry—community and family—can leave one feeling fragmented and exhausted. Our writers in this issue of Journey share their practical experiences on the topic. May our readers be inspired with some new ideas for finding balance in life. page 2 Journey Spring 2014 The Gospel: A Call to Justice and Balance

by Sister Therese O’Rourke, IHM

recently received a gift from a this vocation and proclaimed it in ping out of the mainstream to go family member. It is a bumper Vita Consecrata (84): “There is a to the place of unmet needs (Sister I sticker that reads, “This Pope prophetic dimension which belongs Nancy Schreck, OSF), is a respon- gives me hope”. I think that the to the consecrated life, resulting sibility we share with all who are creator of the sticker speaks for from the radical nature of the fol- baptized. None is exempt. Each is millions of people. We are blessed lowing of Christ.” We are called to called to seize this moment to work with a leader of the Roman Catholic stand at the margins of society and together for systemic change. It is Church who is calling all of us to speak on behalf of those who suffer a moment we share on the deepest serve those in need. Pope Francis is at the hands of the powerful. We of levels and it is our time. It is the asking that we stop judging oth- must draw on the unique wisdom only time we will ever have. We are ers and rather, reach out to them as of those who are powerless. We can responsible for how we spend it. When the lack Jesus did. Jesus never left any doubt and must make our invisible sisters The IHM Sisters invite all of our in the minds of his friends or his en- and brothers dramatically present. friends and companions to join us as of balance is emies. It was clear that in his heart We spend our lives trying to bring we embrace the call and the chal- people mattered: all people. a Gospel-based equilibrium back to lenge to bring about a new sense of calculated, Furthermore, Pope Francis said a world that is misaligned. From a harmony, wholeness, balance and recently that it is time for us to stand shared contemplative core we labor justice wherever we work and live. planned for and up in a powerful way for those who to further the reign of God. “Proph- Travel with us as we search for and are less fortunate: “Today, we need ets are those who take life as it is try to meet the unmet needs of our even enforced by to say, ‘Thou shall not to an econo- and expand it. They refuse to shrink brothers and sisters who count on my of exclusion and inequality.’” A a vision of tomorrow to the bound- our prayer and focused action. Stand laws, we who have culture and an economic structure aries of yesterday” (Joan Chittister, with us privately and in public fo- that keep a few very wealthy at the OSB). Such is our call and chal- rums as we reflect and proclaim the expense of the many disenfran- lenge. core of Jesus’ message: All people a voice and vote chised who remain poor, is a system At the conclusion of our IHM matter. that is out of balance. When the lack Chapter 2014 (governing body of are responsible to of balance is calculated, planned the congregation), one hundred for- Sister Therese serves as president for and even enforced by laws, ty delegates clarified our intention for the IHM Congregation. bring Gospel values we who have a voice and vote are to serve a world that is crying out responsible to bring Gospel values for justice and hungering for mean- to the fore and to to the fore and to lobby for reforms ing. We pledged ourselves to lives that restore a sense of hope to those of service that will effectively bring lobby for reforms most in need. about God’s dream for this wounded As women religious, the Con- world. We continue to search for that restore a sense gregation of the Sisters, Servants of new and deeper ways to live our the Immaculate Heart of Mary share vowed lives as we meet new needs of hope to those a prophetic role with all who live in these rapidly changing times. the consecrated life. It was Pope (Chapter Direction 2014-2018) most in need. John Paul II who clearly articulated This journey to the edge, step-

Editor: Sister Fran Fasolka, IHM Copyeditor: Sister Christine Koellhoffer, IHM

Advisory Board: Sister Gilmary Beagle, IHM Sister Chris Koellhoffer, IHM Sister Suzanne Delaney, IHM Dr. Erin Sadlack Sister Ann Barbara DeSiano, IHM Sister Annmarie Sanders, IHM

Congregation of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Scranton, Pennsylvania Journey is published by the IHM Congregation for its members, friends, donors, sponsored institutions and supporters of the IHM Sisters and their ministries. Opinions expressed by authors Our mission as Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary of Scranton, published in Journey do not necessarily reflect those of the IHM Congregation. Written portions Pennsylvania, is to follow Jesus as a community of disciples, aware that we are contained herein may not be reproduced without the permission of the IHM Congregation. Correspondence should be addressed to the Journey editor at: IHM Center, 2300 Adams Avenue, sent to be a clear and understandable prophetic witness to the presence of God in Scranton, PA 18509. E-mail: [email protected] the world. - from the IHM Mission Statement Journey is online at: www.sistersofihm.org/what-we-do/publications-library/ihm-journey-online-publication.html Spring 2014 Journey page 3 Stepping into the Places of Lack A Justice and Peace Perspective by Sister Chris Koellhoffer, IHM

“I’m going out to connect the dots.” behind bars; recognizing, yes, and church, rummaged through the tab- then meeting their critical human ernacle, stole the ciborium and then This was the announcement need while also moving into ac- threw the consecrated hosts onto Sister Chris Mulready, CSJ would tion and advocacy around the root the muddy ground. A delegation, make every morning as she gathered causes of a broken or exclusionary clearly appalled, came to him de- her things for the day and stepped system. manding a ceremony of atonement out the door on her way to two My friend, Chris, and all the holy for such desecration. Dom Helder subway transfers that would take ones who have gone before, who agreed and first prayed for forgive- her from Brooklyn to Greenwich walk among, and who live beyond ness for the thief. Then he added, Village, New York. It was a journey us follow the witness of Jesus as “But my friends, my brothers, how of over an hour but in some ways, a described by Jan L. Richardson in blind we all are! We are shocked journey of a lifetime. At the time, In the Sanctuary of Women.1 She because our brother, this poor thief, Chris worked as issues coordinator writes of Jesus’ time in the wilder- threw the Eucharistic Christ into the for the Intercommunity Center for ness as a time of clarifying discern- mud. But here in the North East, Justice and Peace (ICJP), a coalition ment. Out of that lengthy discern- Christ lives in the mud all the time! of over forty congregations of wom- ment came Jesus’ persistent habit We must open our eyes…to recog- en and men religious who worked to of going into what Richardson calls nize the Eucharist of the poor, the integrate faith and justice. “the places of lack,” those places oppressed, the suffering.” In our And if we work Going out to connect the dots where there is a dearth of physical, time, he noted, charity is helping to was an apt description for the work emotional, or psychological nurtur- make justice triumph. And doing it solely to stock she did, focused on inviting diverse ing and sufficiency, a dearth of com- on two feet. groups and coalitions into a new passion and kinship and all that is As we are being led into an way of seeing the connectedness of essential for wholeness. She notes evolving consciousness of our place the soup kitchen every social justice issue. As a Sis- that, in Matthew 25, “Jesus gets aw- in relationship to the universe, as we ter of St. Joseph, she was steeped in fully specific in telling us where we are moving forward into an uncer- pantry but don’t the direct service of reaching out to can find him. Each of the habita- tain and ever-changing future, let us the human needs of the dear neigh- tions he lists is marked by lack: walk together with both hope and bor. She was also highly skilled in lack of food, lack of water, lack of tenderness. And let us move, not ever look beyond the balancing act that is walking on hospitality, lack of clothing, lack with a single step but, in partnership the two feet of social justice: charity of health, lack of freedom. Christ with the divine, keeping our world the shelves, how and advocacy. She formed deep chooses these places, inhabits these in balance by walking on two very personal relationships that invited spaces, waits for us to show up.” steady, very faithful feet. people on different sides of an issue To show up and make a differ- will that change to trust her and the message she ence. But going into the places of Sister Chris serves as the councilor carried. This trust enabled her to lack cannot be one-sided. We need for spiritual development for the any of the systems navigate with grace the other side of to show up and walk on the two feet IHM Congregation. direct service, that sometimes rocky of charity and justice, sometimes terrain of the Big Why: Why are called direct service and advocacy. References that keep people people going without food? Why If we insist that we’ll focus solely 1 Jan L. Richardson, In the Sanctu- are they reduced to making impos- on changing the systems and struc- ary of Women, A Companion for hungry and thirsty sible choices—paying the rent or ture that oppress people, how will Reflection & Prayer. Nashville, paying for medicine? Why can that make a critical difference right Tennessee: Upper Room Books, pp. they not find affordable housing? A here and now for the ones in danger 142-143. and homeless? We consequence of delving into the Big of dying unless they immediately Why is that we’re led to identify the get a morsel of bread or a cup of 2 Dom Helder Camara, Essential need to continually systems and structures that oppress cold water? And if we work solely Writings, as quoted in Give Us This people, that marginalize them, that to stock the soup kitchen pantry but Day, March 2014, Vol. 4, Issue 3, keep them outside the circles of don’t ever look beyond the shelves, pp. 116-117, edited by Mary Stom- keep our balance power and decision-making. how will that change any of the mes. Chris, who died after years of systems that keep people hungry and walk into the living with cancer, staked her life and thirsty and homeless? We need on Matthew 25:31-46, the Gospel to continually keep our balance and passage where Jesus describes what walk into the places of lack on two places of lack on balance is in the arena of social feet. justice: recognizing the face of God Dom Helder Camara,2 Arch- two feet. in those who are hungry and thirsty, bishop of Recife, Brazil, recounts an without shelter, suffering illness, or incident where a thief broke into a page 4 Journey Spring 2014

Standing before the Lord withby Sister NancyFeet Hawkins, Firmly IHM Planted on the Ground

must admit that prior to being friends such as life of God. This ideas is called “sunder warumbe.” asked to write this article for Martha, Mary, and is certainly good It means “living without a why.” Journey, I had not thought about Lazarus; he spends news! When you live without a why you “balance” in relationship to the time in the Temple I am writing this live in the present tense and do not Iworld of theology. But once I began and also attends during the season look for the results of your work. pondering the idea of theologi- a wedding which of Lent. I did not You are content to live out of your cal balance I saw countless places was refl ective of his always appreciate own ground and are concerned with in scripture, the life of Jesus, the appreciation for his Lent, but now I the purity of your acting. Soelle Trinity, the sacramental world, and culture. Our faith understand that it is is convinced that living “without mystical theology that affi rm the teaches us that Jesus a time of personal a why” is the basis for all mystical need for balance. was God, but it also and theological love of God. There was a very real One of my favorite musicals is affi rms that he was realignment. We reason that Dorothee Soelle gravi- Fiddler on the Roof. In my Orienta- fully human. Jesus are encouraged to tated to this principle of Meister tion to Theology class I show the had needs as we do avail ourselves of Eckhart. Soelle was a radical scene where the lead character, and it seems to me the richness of the Christian and a peace activist. She Tevye, sings the well-known song that he was aware of sacramental life of marched and experienced the water “Tradition.” He points out all the such needs and tried the Church during cannons on behalf of peace in light facets of the Jewish tradition as he to take care of them. Our world is truly this time before of possible nuclear war. At one works his way through the village. I see his greatest Easter. One place point she became very discouraged Right before singing the song Tevye need as being in imbalanced and where I continually because she was not seeing the asks: “Why do we have these tradi- relationship with fi nd balance is in fruits of her actions. She despaired tions? Because they help us keep his “Abba” God. fi lled with greed, the sacrament of and was depressed. She almost our balance.” Tevye is so right! Our This relationship reconciliation. Our abandoned her efforts for peace theological traditions keep us bal- kept Jesus focused selfi shness, and world is truly im- entirely. Soelle had become unbal- anced and intact. One such place of and clear as he ap- balanced and fi lled anced and forgot why she chose to balance is in the book of Deuterono- proached Jerusalem violence. Such with greed, selfi sh- follow Jesus and work for peace. my where we fi nd the Shema Israel. in his fi nal days. ness, and violence. Meister Eckhart’s mystical concept The Shema is the central prayer of We who are sin is social and Such sin is social brought her out of the darkness and the Jewish prayer book and is often Christians believe and it claims me reinvigorated her ministry. I often the fi rst section of scripture that a in a God who is because I am a ponder Soelle’s life and the lessons Jewish child learns. “Hear O Israel! Triune. While this it claims me social being. The she learned. All of us who minister The Lord is our God, the Lord can be a highly sacrament of rec- on behalf of the reign of God can alone!” (Deuteronomy 6:4). And abstract theologi- because I am a onciliation offers lose our sense of balance if we only the following sentence makes this cal principle, it is me, and all of us, a focus on the results of our work. declaration complete: “Therefore, also very practical social being. The place to name our The mystics are a rich place in our you shall love the Lord, your God, and understandable. unbalance, ask for Christian heritage to fi nd wisdom to with all your heart, with all your The essence of Trin- sacrament of healing, and invite keep us aright. soul, and with all your strength.” ity is community in the God of Love Last summer, after I had my These two lines which are writ- relationship. God reconciliation into our hearts, knee replaced, I chose to go to a ten on a small scroll which is then is God as creator, is souls and minds. fi nal outpatient therapy to regain rolled up and put inside a mezuzah God as redeemer, off ers me, and I have a wonder- my “balance.” I came to physically and attached to the doorway of a and is God as one ful person in my understand that if the body is unbal- Jewish home, set the worshipper in who inspires and all of us, a place life that facilitates anced life is very diffi cult. I worked right relationship to God. It gives us gives gifts. There this sacrament and on walking with both feet planted the key to balance. God must hold is never a moment to name our when he places his fi rmly on the ground. This under- the main place in our lives. Nothing when these three hands on my head standing applies to our theological/ else must take the place of the One aspects/persons of to absolve me, I ex- spiritual lives. When God calls our God. And if we love our God with God exist alone. unbalance, ask for perience the hands name and invites us into relation- the totality of our being—our emo- And this perfectly of Jesus. As I head ship, let us come to God like Moses tions, our soul, and our humanity— balanced communio healing, and invite home after this sac- at the Burning Bush: with both feet all will be intact in our lives. This of divine love rament I truly know planted fi rmly on the ground. May prayer does not declare that life will extends outward to the God of Love I am once again in we allow God to teach us how to not have its diffi culties; it declares the entire world. As balance and whole. be balanced individuals, and may that the balanced life has God at its the late Catherine into our hearts, In my work on we help others fi nd the balance they center. Mowry LaCugna the theology of need as well. As I read the New Testament wrote, “God is souls and minds. Dorothee Soelle I I fi nd many instances when Jesus always God for us.” was introduced to Sister Nancy serves on the faculty at tries to fi nd balance in his own And we are daily the mystic, Meis- St. Bernard’s School of Theology life. He frequently looks for quiet invited to partake ter Eckhart. One and Ministry in Rochester, NY. time far from the crowds. He visits of this integrated of Eckhart’s key Spring 2014 Journey page 5 Working Toward a Common Vision, Attaining Uncommon Results by Sister Annmarie Sanders, IHM

ends the meeting eagerly anticipat- comes to the gathering is invaluable the next day. Amazing new insights ing gathering again. for creating an environment of often occur when a group has some How did Team B fi nd a way to understanding and compassion. distance from a matter and can balance multiple perspectives, value Knowing if a teammate is feeling return to it with freshness. the voice of all, work collaborative- overjoyed by an achievement, ly and creatively, and even enjoy the distracted by a pressing deadline, or  Seek wise outside counsel. For experience? Most likely the Team B concerned for an ill family member matters that go beyond the compe- members recognized that in an in- not only builds bonds among the tency of the team, invite a wisdom creasingly complex world, no single team, but can provide insights for fi gure to part of a meeting to listen individual has the skills and insights the other team members as to that to the group and offer insight. En- to address all the challenges and person’s responses and reactions courage each team member also to possibilities that come into our lives when discussing other matters. fi nd a trusted confi dante with whom and work situations. They probably he/she can share honestly, and who icture two teams. Team A is have seen that resolutions to dif-  Learn about each person’s work will challenge the team member to comprised of six coworkers fi cult situations and plans for future styles. Do some people prefer hav- see with broad vision. —all of whom have different directions are much richer and more ing time to think a matter through P effective when reached by a diverse prior to a meeting, or do they do sets of skills, perspectives, work  Invite feedback. If a team team that values and utilizes each styles, likes and dislikes – brought their best thinking together with member feels his/her ideas have member’s skills and abilities. They together through their work for a others at the table? Do they prefer been misunderstood, or feels some are likely to have acknowledged small nonprofi t organization. Team communicating information face-to- resistance from the group, encour- that working collaboratively has A meets together every other week. face, by phone, or by email? Who age that person to invite feedback become an imperative for fi nding Team B is comprised of six on the team gives good attention from the rest of the team. Ask: how fresh answers and creating new pos- members, equally diverse as Team to detail? Who is a visual learner? do you hear me when I say …? Is sibilities. A, who also work for a small Who is an auditory learner? there a way that I can express this At a recent meeting of IHM sis- nonprofi t. Team B also meets every idea that would be more helpful for ters, we participants were asked to other week.  Encourage everyone to speak. the group? look back on some of our collabora- One day Team A sits down for Even if team members feel they its bi-weekly meeting and realizes tive work experiences and refl ect on have no expertise or experience  Be compassionate with failure. that on its agenda is a a complex, what we learned about team work with a matter on the table, invite When the team’s or a team mem- multi-layered problematic situa- from those experiences. The exer- their thoughts and opinions. This ber’s idea fails or a goal is not tion for which it must fi nd a solu- cise led me to recall not only some practice of hearing from all helps to reached, suspend judgment and tion. Knowing it has only two of the amazing teams on which I avoid a pattern where some people always ask: What can we learn from hours to meet, Team A decides to have been privileged to serve, but dominate all discussions. what happened? tackle the problematic situation fi rst, all that I have learned from my and spends the two hours arguing teammates as well.  Be curious. When a team mem- There are, of course, many other vehemently, raising ideas that are Clearly, the more seriously a ber offers an idea or expresses an ways to build and sustain a team quickly dismissed, judging motives, group takes its commitment to opinion that seems quite different and each team has to fi nd what and unable to reach a resolution. create the conditions for collabora- and perhaps even out of place, take works best for its own situation. We The team runs out of time for other tive team work, the more likely the the time to ask questions that lead to may all, however, do well to refl ect agenda items. The members leave experience will be fruitful and the deeper exploration of that concept. on these words of Andrew Carnegie: this meeting frustrated and with richer the resulting work will be. Pose questions that suspend judg- “Teamwork is the ability to work dread of the next one. Since that IHM gathering, I have ment and are meant only to probe together toward a common vision, On the other side of town, Team tried to name how the teams of for greater understanding. the ability to direct individual ac- B members sit down for their which I have been a part created complishment toward organizational regular meeting and fi nd an equally favorable work and meeting condi- objectives. It is the fuel that allows complex situation before them. tions. The following are some of  Develop an effective communi- common people to attain uncom- Knowing they have two hours for the practices that I have found most cations plan. When the team is not mon results.” this meeting, they spend the fi rst helpful for creating a team that meeting, how do they communicate twenty minutes listening to how not only works well together, but with one another? How do they Sister Annmarie serves as the each team member is that day. Then relishes the experience of being a assure that everyone is kept in the director of communications for the turning to the problematic situation, team. loop? Who communicates decisions Leadership Conference of Women they spend the next hour raising made by the team to the organiza- Religious in Silver Spring, MD. multiple and varied ideas that other Practices for Creating tion, and how does that communica- members carefully consider, of- tion take place? fering probing questions, fi nding a Team points of agreement, and gradually  Sleep on a decision. When the creating a way forward that all not  Begin team meetings with a team cannot reach consensus with only own, but actually like. Team B “check-in.” Inviting each person a decision, if possible, leave the fi nishes its remaining business, and to share something of how he/she matter unresolved and return to it page 6 Journey Spring 2014 “All shall be well” Tidings from the Fourteenth Century by Erin Sadlack to live in a small cell hood. I it am, the light and the grace attached to the town’s that is all blessed love.” She carries church. A typical cell had the idea further by exploring the three windows: one on the idea of Jesus as a mother, who like church through which the a mother breastfeeding her child, anchoress might hear mass gives us life through the sacrament. and receive the Eucharist, In describing what has become one one for a maid or other of her most famous visions, Julian assistant to bring food and explains that God showed her “a lit- necessities, and one for tle thing the size of a hazelnut in the the anchoress to use when palm of my hand, and it was round offering spiritual counsel- as a ball.” When she asked what ing to members of the it was, God replied “it is all that is town or pilgrims traveling made” and Julian was afraid, for it hen Sister Fran Fasolka to the church. Taking up such a role seemed too little to last. However, Julian explains that first floated the theme of was a weighty undertaking for both she notes warmly, God answered “balance” for this issue, anchoress and town, and a bishop her that it would last forever, for God showed her “a I applauded the idea, anticipating had to oversee the appointments God loved it. Julian then expounds Wwith pleasure reading the wisdom to ascertain both the anchoress’s on the lesson to note that God made, little thing the size of a from my fellow contributors. Then preparedness for such enclosure loves, and preserves the world for the other shoe dropped; I would and the town and church’s ability to ever. Given such divine love, Julian hazelnut in the palm have to write about balance. I sustain her livelihood. Town mem- urges her readers not to focus on sin hesitated, feeling hypocritical: what bers gladly paid for the privilege of and the evils of the day, but rather of my hand, and it was words of advice could I offer, es- maintaining an anchoress’s physical to focus on the joy of God’s care. pecially given how much I struggle welfare because she in turn spent It is especially remarkable given with this very problem? But Sr. Fran her days praying for their spiritual the world in which she lived, one round as a ball.” When pointed out that I was hardly alone well being. in many ways still like the present: in that area, and I know she is right. We know little of Julian’s life torn by war, disease, corruption, and she asked what it was, Indeed, just this week, a study done save what she tells us, not even her poverty. by the UCLA Higher Education name, which comes from the church Initially it might seem a little God replied “it is all that Research Institute found that while of St. Julian where she was en- odd to connect Julian’s life with a seventy-four percent of faculty find closed as an anchoress in Norwich, message of balance, given that she is made” and Julian was that “work adds meaning to my England. Born circa 1343, Julian renounced the world completely. life,” only thirty-nine percent felt describes how at the age of thirty But the reason there was a third afraid, for it seemed too that they had achieved “a healthy years, she fell deathly ill, where- window in her cell was so that she balance between my personal life upon she had a series of sixteen could counsel those who needed her little to last. However, and my professional life.” Clearly, visions of God, and that she wrote wisdom and prayers. We might live my dilemma is common to many them down upon her recovery, then centuries later, but her firm convic- she notes warmly, God people, and yet there are no com- spent the next twenty years study- tion that “all shall be well and all mon solutions. But as an educator, I ing and interpreting the meaning of shall be well, and all manner of answered her that it try to teach students to persist, even these visions. We also know that she thing shall be well” resonates with when they don’t see easy answers, lived until at least 1416, since she comfort today, especially when we would last forever, for and I realized that I would be equal- was named in a bequest at that time. are discouraged or weary or frustrat- ly hypocritical not to grapple with Given this time frame, Julian lived ed, and reminds us to trust Julian’s God loved it. Julian then this theme, however problematic it through the ravages of the bubonic message of hope: that God our was. I also realized that I teach my plague, the political upheaval of the Father and Mother holds us all ten- expounds on the lesson students to learn from the lessons of Peasants’ Rebellion and Henry IV’s derly and securely, like the hazelnut. others, especially, in my field, those deposition of his cousin, King Rich- That might not get the laundry done to note that God made, from the past, and I remembered ard II, and the burnings of religious or the papers graded, but if we take the example of a medieval woman heretics called Lollards across the a little time to meditate on Julian’s loves, and preserves the whose writing I admire deeply: river opposite the church where she message, we might gain the peace Julian of Norwich. was enclosed. of mind and perspective we need to world for ever. For those who don’t know Despite so much turmoil, Ju- help achieve the balance we seek. her, Julian was an anchoress who lian’s visions testify to a profound lived in the fourteenth century. and loving God. Indeed she calls on Erin serves at Marywood University An anchoress (or anchorite, since God as both Father and Mother, the in Scranton, PA, as associate profes- men could also follow this spiritual “might and goodness of the Father- sor of English. path), would renounce the world hood, the wisdom of the Mother- Spring 2014 Journey page 7 B l nc: A Ar n  Dscn by Sister Kathy Kurdziel, IHM

love the Olympics! Every night place, it is important to courageous- prayer. Mindfulness of patterns of fl uidity in their routines, we too I am glued to the TV in total ly and sometimes doggedly pursue a imbalance and mature self-aware- can closely monitor ourselves for awe of the young athletes com- life of integration and compassion. ness of the methods we use to sabo- imbalances and eventually develop peting for a medal or striving for a Fidelity to commitments strengthens tage our own happiness can prompt a personal presence of gracefulness, personalI best or just enjoying being the regimen of prayer, generosity, the exploration of new skills for a balance and hospitality, enabling part of the exhilirating ambiance of thoughtfulness, honesty, and inner happier and more hospitable way of us to live and work lovingly among the rink or the slope. It is such a scrutiny which gradually soften living. Practices like mindfulness all people. This means cultivating magical mixture of fi erce competi- angers, envies, grudges, negative and the Ignatian daily examen can a keen awareness of our habits like tion, team work, precision, balance, judgments, infi delities, callousness be very helpful. overwork that causes weariness and pure joy, bitter disappointment and and indifference, and melts them A few years ago on a service trip resentment, pettiness that judges outrageous fun. I sit mesmerized into smiles, laughter, appreciation, to Chicago, our volunteers had the and disapproves, criticism that cuts night after night. understanding, empathy, mercy privilege of spending a day learning and destroys, gossip that demeans What about this event, I ask and defames, envy that divides and myself, strikes such a chord of reso- deadens relationships, laxity that nance deep in my being? I am not places burdens and discouragement competitive by nature; I prefer the Mnfn    rs  on others and pride that dominates, harmony of music and poetry and discriminates and berates. Not one the serenity of red-orange sunsets,  b l nc n r f- of us is immune to the destructive rising full moons, and dark nights  rn  t  hos  forces that tip us over. fi lled with stars. I think what really   t s b ag
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 maintain balance. Asceticism is a fully executed performance whether   ­€s ‚
r  h  ir n habit of the heart which helps us it is slalom, or half pipe or ice danc- maintain the balance we need to ing or snow boarding, as the athletes
r hƒs„t l ay  vng. live our “one wild and precious twist and turn, leap and land, ski Prac c† k nfn n life.”1 with holiness and joy. A well and slide down steep slopes main- t Ign i  d ly  m c  balanced, well executed Olympic taining disciplined balance and performance appears perfectly elegant, graceful form. Millions ‡ ˆry  pf‰. natural and effortless to its audi- watch in breathless enchantment. ence. Balance is an art that is always The wonderful closing ceremonies open to corrective and enhancement pass on the dream and beat out the and although it looks very easy it rhythm of the dance among the and forgiveness. Restoring balance and helping at a shelter for addicted, requires vigilance and dedicated young people of our world who long brings life back into harmony and homeless women with children. It practice. If we grasp that truth, then for a day when our world will be at joy back into life. was called Harmony, Hope and like Christ’s life, our lives will fl ow peace and all societies will thrive in Using today’s technology, ath- Healing. A former opera singer gracefully and naturally in an appar- justice, dignity and harmony. letes often scrutinize their own per- designed a program of healing and ent effortless loving outreach to oth- I too recall the visions of my formances to identify problem areas restoration through music. As each ers. We will heal and fi nd our voices youth and now dream the dreams of and to correct postures and move- woman did her own painful inner and sing our melodies of grace and an aging woman. I ask myself what ments that mar the grace and beauty work to restore the balance in her gratitude. The art and discipline of I have learned over a lifetime that of their technique. We can do the life, she simultaneously participated good balance is worth every ounce I might share with Journey read- same for ourselves. Paying attention daily in a singing support group. of our effort and inner work. ers. One thing stands out among to areas of awkwardness, examining Often initially quite resistant, the the many. It is the art and the what tips us over, observing what is woman gradually discovered her Sister Kathy serves as the director discipline of maintaining balance in out of kilter can lead to the detec- own voice and her own song and of vocations and formation for the the events, challenges, accomplish- tion of deep-seated fears, old and began to sing it, hesitantly at fi rst IHM Congregation. ments, joys, hurts and sometimes unhealed wounds, silent and unful- and then as she healed, with full deep disappointments and sorrows fi lled longings, feelings of inad- and confi dent voice. Finally, those Reference of life. For me it is the challenge equacy and deep loss, and perhaps women sang the songs of grace and 1 Oliver, Mary, “The Summer Day.” and the lynchpin of a happy and even frustration and anger with the gratitude, passion and beauty, in The Truro Bear and Other Adven- meaningful life. God we vowed to love and serve. nearly fl awless performances of bal- tures: Poems and Essays. Beacon It is the discipline of integrity The good news is that attentiveness ance and harmony and hope. If the Press, 2008 and the profound asceticism of to inner balance can lead to surpris- heart is ready and the soul is will- prayer that keeps life in balance. ing insights, new relationships, ing, there are many paths to a whole Humbly acknowledging the hard partnerships in healing, outreach to and balanced life. work of navigating relationships, creative activities that renew energy Just as Olympians with the aid of coping with the complexities of and hone desired skills, and a desire technology observe, study, prac- family and community life and the for contemplation and deeper more tice and drill the basics in order to constant challenges of the work- challenging and fulfi lling forms of maintain confi dence, balance and page 8 Journey Spring 2014

Words of Wisdo by Sisters o of IHM Finding Balanc Words of Wisdo by Sisters o of IHM Finding Balanc

xercise when with others or alone, as I apply what to love me, remind me that there Regularly, I main- To maintain bal- I try to maintain I pray with poetry it’s time to I know from life experiences and will be a tomorrow, and that today Balance can be tain balance in a ance I guard my balance in my life because it feeds exercise, eat studies, and trying to be my true needs to end! elusive especially hectic, demanding time away from by being open to my soul and when it’s time to self. Susan Armbruster, IHM when work is life by spending work and ministry “the disguised inspires imagina- Eeat, play when Madeline Swaboski, IHM overwhelming time each day in through prayer, God” in my tion and I walk it’s time to play, but these help the quiet, refl ective work, reading, personal life, my through our and pray when Live in the pres- most: prayer, fam- prayer. Connect- or just not doing ministerial life, School of Archi- it’s time to pray. Balance for me ent moment....the ily, good friends ing with the God anything! and my life as a tecture because When things go wrong, remember comes through NOW is the only and lots and lots of laughter! of all goodness allows me to see Mare Carol Loughney, IHM caregiver; I am so blessed by the this creative space expands my it could have been a lot worse and phone calls, com- time we have... Sandra McMahon, IHM things in perspective and brings bal- love and support of many people. thinking. thank God the “could have” didn’t munity Jeopardy the past is gone ance to life and ministry. Jane Mary Duke, IHM Anne Munley, IHM happen. and sports events, ...the future not Ann Rosalia Devlin, IHM To maintain bal- Miriam Joseph Reinhardt, IHM and reading. known... To keep bal- ance from the Carol Lubas, IHM Maureen Cryan, ance in my life, busyness of life, I Since I believe I try to pay atten- IHM it is important I pray the Seren- like to pause with most IHM’s are tion to the needs When I feel har- for me to rec- ity Prayer each a good book that workaholics, I of my body by ried, I stop, con- I make sure that I ognize my core day as I walk feeds my soul try to maintain getting proper centrate on my do some spiritual Balance for me principle of life. from chapel to and create cards balance in my sleep, exercising breathing, pray reading every must include For example: To the Business Of- from recycled life by doing and eating things a mantra such as day for at least prayer, ministry, serve God and fi ce. materials with quotes from my read- something that I that are healthy. “Spirit of life, a half hour. It is and play. Prayer become a better version of myself. Judith Ann ings. enjoy; right now Nancy DeCesare, IHM calm my heart.” a space of quiet and ministry are All other things in life will fall into Ziegler, IHM Suzanne Delaney, IHM it is participating in a yoga class. Once my breath- refl ection and easily achieved place guided by this. For me, I try to Anne Mary Boslett, IHM ing slows down, I can continue what peace. A time to as they are keep a schedule in which I will have To maintain bal- I’m doing with more peace. be open to God´s presence in the constants. Play, prayer, work, fun. Stop, take a deep While read- ance in my life, Jane Snyder, IHM everydayness. on the other hand, can slip away Amanda Del Valle, IHM breath, establish ing Macrina I consider life a I take Tuesdays Ancilla Maloney, IHM unnoticed. When I fi nd myself feel- priorities, concen- Wiederkehr’s trio of PWP— and Saturdays ing out of balance, self-examination trate on the most “Seven Sacred prayer, work and off. This pause For me balance most often reveals that I am not I love to cro- important thing at Pauses” this year, play. refreshes my spirit implies time for I go out into playing, not taking time to have chet—I try to this time and act! I decided to use Joan Paskert, and keeps me contemplation, a nature! fun... Play is not a luxury but a spend some time Helene Hicks, the hourly church IHM whole! sense of humor Nancy Hawkins, necessity and just as important as each day crochet- IHM chimes at work to Jane Gaughan, IHM and the ability IHM prayer and ministry for a happy, ing chemo caps remind me to take “the pause that to recognize the healthy, balanced life. for cancer patients refreshes.” limits of age, time Sarah Landis, IHM or baby outfi ts for To keep balance Jane Ellis, IHM The only time With concerns and energy. our school’s Lanc- in my life I try I have is right that repeat Eileen Egan, IHM ers for Life Club. to do a variety now. When I throughout the What leads to bal- Bernadette Thomas, IHM of daily physi- I like the “3P” become preoccu- week, I try to How do I fi nd ance in my life is cal activities that plan... prioritize, pied with things assign a day and Being in fam- balance in my that each morning distract me from keep positive, that disturb my time for them; ily ministry, I life? By sur- I begin with quiet I practice yoga my work. and avoid pro- well-being, I try when the unex- personally have rounding myself prayer and again meditation Eileen Clinton, IHM crastination. to focus on the pected arises, I more time to pray with friends, in the evening I several times Madonna Marie present with a grateful heart and a give a priority to peoples’ needs and and take each day partners in min- have quiet prayer. each week to Lenikus, IHM peaceful spirit. deadlines. with my focus on istry, people I I believe this bring balance Some of my Eleanor Desaulniers, IHM Dorothy A. Haney, IHM this is what I am consider “wis- permits me to face what happens in and mindfulness favorite ways of to do at this time dom fi gures” and those who have my days with an inner peace which to my hectic having balance To help maintain in my life. found the answer of how to live guides me to balance in my life, not and fast-paced between ministry balance through- Each day I deal I try to minimize Grace Madeline Dusch, IHM “balanced.” These companions en- always but usually. life. Yoga helps me to maintain a in a nursing home out my life I have with teachers, ministry related courage and affi rm me in how I seek Delia McNeirney, IHM healthy, happy and focused physical and outside is a tried to stay in parents and stress in my life to be creative in the many aspects and spiritual life. walk in the park faithful contact students. After I by: Prioritizing Balance: fi rst, of my life. But they are ever vigi- Kathleen Lunsmann, IHM with my therapy with my close monitor the caf- tasks and com- each morning I lant and not afraid to challenge me My balance dog, Curly, listening to music (spiri- friends who are eteria I go to our pleting the most spend time with to go slow, to breathe, to be gentle needs being tual and old time), dancing at every also my mentors school chapel and immediate fi rst. God who gives with myself, and to make sure there grounded in opportunity, playing Bingo and and truth-tellers. pray the rosary for Not procrastinat- me the rest of the is time built in to renew and just God’s love and Pokeno with residents in our apart- Kathryn Kurdziel, IHM all those who have asked me to pray ing so all tasks are completed in day to be social, “be.” At times when they think I am meeting life with ment, and last but not least spending for them. It gives me a great source a timely manner. Daily personal physical, intel- doing too much juggling and not a sense of humor. quality time with family and friends. of peace and calm for the afternoon. prayer for God’s help and peace in lectual, emotional enough balancing, they bring me Robert Mary Rita Ann Naughton, IHM Mary Alice Kane, IHM all that I am called to do that day. coffee, laugh with me, and continue Murphy, IHM Mary Ann Adams, IHM Spring 2014 Journey page 9

Words of Wisdo by Sisters o of IHM Finding Balanc Words of Wisdo by Sisters o of IHM Finding Balanc xercise when with others or alone, as I apply what to love me, remind me that there Regularly, I main- To maintain bal- I try to maintain I pray with poetry it’s time to I know from life experiences and will be a tomorrow, and that today Balance can be tain balance in a ance I guard my balance in my life because it feeds exercise, eat studies, and trying to be my true needs to end! elusive especially hectic, demanding time away from by being open to my soul and when it’s time to self. Susan Armbruster, IHM when work is life by spending work and ministry “the disguised inspires imagina- Eeat, play when Madeline Swaboski, IHM overwhelming time each day in through prayer, God” in my tion and I walk it’s time to play, but these help the quiet, refl ective work, reading, personal life, my through our and pray when Live in the pres- most: prayer, fam- prayer. Connect- or just not doing ministerial life, School of Archi- it’s time to pray. Balance for me ent moment....the ily, good friends ing with the God anything! and my life as a tecture because When things go wrong, remember comes through NOW is the only and lots and lots of laughter! of all goodness allows me to see Mare Carol Loughney, IHM caregiver; I am so blessed by the this creative space expands my it could have been a lot worse and phone calls, com- time we have... Sandra McMahon, IHM things in perspective and brings bal- love and support of many people. thinking. thank God the “could have” didn’t munity Jeopardy the past is gone ance to life and ministry. Jane Mary Duke, IHM Anne Munley, IHM happen. and sports events, ...the future not Ann Rosalia Devlin, IHM To maintain bal- Miriam Joseph Reinhardt, IHM and reading. known... To keep bal- ance from the Carol Lubas, IHM Maureen Cryan, ance in my life, busyness of life, I Since I believe I try to pay atten- IHM it is important I pray the Seren- like to pause with most IHM’s are tion to the needs When I feel har- for me to rec- ity Prayer each a good book that workaholics, I of my body by ried, I stop, con- I make sure that I ognize my core day as I walk feeds my soul try to maintain getting proper centrate on my do some spiritual Balance for me principle of life. from chapel to and create cards balance in my sleep, exercising breathing, pray reading every must include For example: To the Business Of- from recycled life by doing and eating things a mantra such as day for at least prayer, ministry, serve God and fi ce. materials with quotes from my read- something that I that are healthy. “Spirit of life, a half hour. It is and play. Prayer become a better version of myself. Judith Ann ings. enjoy; right now Nancy DeCesare, IHM calm my heart.” a space of quiet and ministry are All other things in life will fall into Ziegler, IHM Suzanne Delaney, IHM it is participating in a yoga class. Once my breath- refl ection and easily achieved place guided by this. For me, I try to Anne Mary Boslett, IHM ing slows down, I can continue what peace. A time to as they are keep a schedule in which I will have To maintain bal- I’m doing with more peace. be open to God´s presence in the constants. Play, prayer, work, fun. Stop, take a deep While read- ance in my life, Jane Snyder, IHM everydayness. on the other hand, can slip away Amanda Del Valle, IHM breath, establish ing Macrina I consider life a I take Tuesdays Ancilla Maloney, IHM unnoticed. When I fi nd myself feel- priorities, concen- Wiederkehr’s trio of PWP— and Saturdays ing out of balance, self-examination trate on the most “Seven Sacred prayer, work and off. This pause For me balance most often reveals that I am not I love to cro- important thing at Pauses” this year, play. refreshes my spirit implies time for I go out into playing, not taking time to have chet—I try to this time and act! I decided to use Joan Paskert, and keeps me contemplation, a nature! fun... Play is not a luxury but a spend some time Helene Hicks, the hourly church IHM whole! sense of humor Nancy Hawkins, necessity and just as important as each day crochet- IHM chimes at work to Jane Gaughan, IHM and the ability IHM prayer and ministry for a happy, ing chemo caps remind me to take “the pause that to recognize the healthy, balanced life. for cancer patients refreshes.” limits of age, time Sarah Landis, IHM or baby outfi ts for To keep balance Jane Ellis, IHM The only time With concerns and energy. our school’s Lanc- in my life I try I have is right that repeat Eileen Egan, IHM ers for Life Club. to do a variety now. When I throughout the What leads to bal- Bernadette Thomas, IHM of daily physi- I like the “3P” become preoccu- week, I try to How do I fi nd ance in my life is cal activities that plan... prioritize, pied with things assign a day and Being in fam- balance in my that each morning distract me from keep positive, that disturb my time for them; ily ministry, I life? By sur- I begin with quiet I practice yoga my work. and avoid pro- well-being, I try when the unex- personally have rounding myself prayer and again meditation Eileen Clinton, IHM crastination. to focus on the pected arises, I more time to pray with friends, in the evening I several times Madonna Marie present with a grateful heart and a give a priority to peoples’ needs and and take each day partners in min- have quiet prayer. each week to Lenikus, IHM peaceful spirit. deadlines. with my focus on istry, people I I believe this bring balance Some of my Eleanor Desaulniers, IHM Dorothy A. Haney, IHM this is what I am consider “wis- permits me to face what happens in and mindfulness favorite ways of to do at this time dom fi gures” and those who have my days with an inner peace which to my hectic having balance To help maintain in my life. found the answer of how to live guides me to balance in my life, not and fast-paced between ministry balance through- Each day I deal I try to minimize Grace Madeline Dusch, IHM “balanced.” These companions en- always but usually. life. Yoga helps me to maintain a in a nursing home out my life I have with teachers, ministry related courage and affi rm me in how I seek Delia McNeirney, IHM healthy, happy and focused physical and outside is a tried to stay in parents and stress in my life to be creative in the many aspects and spiritual life. walk in the park faithful contact students. After I by: Prioritizing Balance: fi rst, of my life. But they are ever vigi- Kathleen Lunsmann, IHM with my therapy with my close monitor the caf- tasks and com- each morning I lant and not afraid to challenge me My balance dog, Curly, listening to music (spiri- friends who are eteria I go to our pleting the most spend time with to go slow, to breathe, to be gentle needs being tual and old time), dancing at every also my mentors school chapel and immediate fi rst. God who gives with myself, and to make sure there grounded in opportunity, playing Bingo and and truth-tellers. pray the rosary for Not procrastinat- me the rest of the is time built in to renew and just God’s love and Pokeno with residents in our apart- Kathryn Kurdziel, IHM all those who have asked me to pray ing so all tasks are completed in day to be social, “be.” At times when they think I am meeting life with ment, and last but not least spending for them. It gives me a great source a timely manner. Daily personal physical, intel- doing too much juggling and not a sense of humor. quality time with family and friends. of peace and calm for the afternoon. prayer for God’s help and peace in lectual, emotional enough balancing, they bring me Robert Mary Rita Ann Naughton, IHM Mary Alice Kane, IHM all that I am called to do that day. coffee, laugh with me, and continue Murphy, IHM Mary Ann Adams, IHM page 10 Journey Spring 2014 Life Long Learning On Balance and Artistry We come into this world head fi rst and go out feet fi rst; by Sister Helene Hicks, IHM by Megan Coiley in between, it is all a matt er of balance! -Paul Boese alance. Balance and freedom. the hard edges we tend to build on and work-out fads. We bounce from organic spinach-buying vegans at Equilibrium. Can more elusive our humanity. We are not invin- hard labor to couch potato mode. the supermarket. However, there ne of my college profes- their goals of raising a good fam- spiritual—functioning well? Are realities be found? These cible, nor are we always our best We humans move from temporary is a tendency and temptation to sors used to say that when ily, providing for a good education, they holistically interrelated? Have I Bwords describe an ideal, one that and most prepared musical selves, state to temporary state feeling like believe that engaging in ostensibly one discussed a topic it was teaching responsibility and respect balanced each of these facets of life is both necessary and, in its purest but we are us. We are the only ones the universe’s ping pong balls, and holistic activities—drinking green alwaysO important to make sure that and being examples and models of so that I am healthy and growing in form, almost inconceivable. Rarely who are us. The more often we risk there are very few resources to help smoothies and twisting ourselves one defi ne the topic being discussed. good Christian parents. relationship with my Creator as well do we experience such vertical- honestly being us, the closer we extricate us from the cycle. into pretzels—will be our way out Webster has numerous defi nitions It was from my family that I as with others? And how do I learn ity for more than an instant, yet come to artistry. It is well understood now that we of the tension-relaxation circuit. of the word balance. I prefer the learned about priorities, values, at- to stay in balance? journeying toward that state is an Balance, then, is an experiment. function most optimally when cen- There is a missing link in that men- simple one that states: a state of titudes, organization, and ability to As I look back over the years, I inherent part of what it means to be It is comprised of many smaller tered, present, and focused. Yoga tality. It is not those momentary equilibrium; or to arrange, adjust or adjust when the unexpected hap- fi nd that I have been blessed with a human. We are wired for it…built to experiments – daily practices of studios are brimming with people experiences that keep us healthy and proportion the various parts. pened. Life wasn’t always perfect, variety of gifts and have been given seek centricity. technical/musical challenges, hoping for some sense of peace. grounded; rather, it is a moment by In my life time I have had vari- clear cut, and easy, yet many times numerous opportunities. I have In music, that path is especially awareness of self and others, listen- Meditation is becoming more moment practice of awareness and ous experiences of balance starting it was in the diffi culties and hard- tried to take advantage of many, but salient. The entire realm of tech- ing, observing, and following one’s mainstream, and it is not uncom- choice that can lead us to the still at a very early age. As an infant, ships that the greatest lessons were not all. There were also times when As I look back over the nique is founded upon balance. own reactions – in short, living. If mon to encounter health-conscious, center at the top of the pendulum. trying to hold my head up was my learned and strength was obtained. I think, “I should have,” but didn’t. This is no simplifi cation. It is the we choose to learn Yoga, martial arts, and any other fi rst balancing experience. My body I had the good fortune of being Yet God continues to bless and pro- years, I nd that I have very reason for the diffi culty of from those experi- artistic fi eld can foster such a dis- and neck were not yet ready to hold able to go to the Catholic school tect me and work with my choices. attaining virtuosity at the piano. It ences, we can build cipline, but only if they are passed up my head and hence my mother in the parish and when I gradu- When the unexpected, unplanned been blessed with a is the crux of the singer’s challenge thicker wires to on by people who lead by example always needed to make sure that it ated from high school I entered the happened, God was there working to achieve the best possible reso- walk. To choose in addition to teaching directly. It was being held and balanced for me. convent. through family, friends, or strangers variety of gi s and have nance. Technique from instrument balance is to trust is not enough to merely enact the Thus began the fi rst of many balanc- Many of the values and priori- to accompany me or just be present to instrument is not so dissimilar. It in the embodied outward projections of these bodies ing acts in my life. I am sure that ties learned at home became refi ned for me. been given numerous is the human body, after all, which understanding that of knowledge; the fi elds must be most people can think of the numer- and sharpened as I went through the So balance is made up of failure moves to play them, and the human our many trials lived fully. ous balancing acts that are part of postulancy and novitiate and pre- and success, good and bad, health opportunities. I have body operates best within certain have given us. To And so it is with music. Music the life of a young child holding pared to become a teacher. Goals, and illness, confusion and order, tried to take advantage parameters. Balanced parameters. walk a wire is to is not a career that can be pursued that bottle of milk for the fi rst time, order, balance, and planning ahead fl exibility and routine. Balance is a How do I make sound? It cannot be allow ourselves to half-heartedly, for there are few walking, bike riding, and skating. were priorities. And one needed to mixture of opposites. Balance for of many, but not all. by forcing, but it also cannot be by be suspended in the jobs, little money to be made, and These are examples of physical bal- be ready to adapt to anything that me has been infl uenced and shaped letting every muscle go limp. We ultimate experi- much work to do. We struggle with ance that have to do with the body. may change the well-planned les- by people, events, and happenings  ere were also times are engaged bodies—alive, active, ment. We as artists insurance, hodge-podge careers, Then there are examples of balance sons of the day. As a young sister depending on my susceptibility to and dynamic. It isn’t a coincidence are charged with and fi nding enough time to practice. within relationships, relationships with energy and inquisitiveness I what surrounds me and how I dis- when I think, “I should that we apply the same word that making that choice We arrive at performances and bare with relatives, doctors, neighbors, was excited to get involved in many cern and choose what is important defi nes the craft of tightrope walk- in every moment. our very souls for people we do not playmates. These were all intro- different adventures and often life and necessary for a balanced life for have,” but didn’t. Yet ers. The physical nature of what When we do not know. In this profession, musicians duced to me at an early age and became very hectic and fast paced. me. To strive for a balanced life, I God continues to bless a musician does requires that each choose to step out are pushed onto their own high helped me to establish socialization School, college classes in the sum- need to recognize when it is unbal- part of the body function in a very of comfort into less wires— it is the unstated part of our as well as help build healthy rela- mers, convent life as well as sum- anced. This realization awakens my and protect me and specifi c and coordinated way. Bal- familiar arenas, we jobs. Our lives are lived up here, tionships. mer experiences became an integral need for others and God. Together ance is not a luxury; it is a lifestyle. encounter obstacles somewhere along the spectrum of My parents were hard working part of life. we can foster growth, wholeness, work with my choices. Without it, we are unable to make that cause us to dancing and clinging to the rope. It people. Mom was a stay-at-home After more than 20 years of peace and a world of possibilities. art. behave like pendu- is an oft-traveled spectrum. Howev- mother and Dad walked back teaching junior high school, I When the unexpected, Even the creation or the sharing lums. In technique, er, we do have a choice in how we and forth to work every day. We realized that I needed to consider Sister Helene serves as a case man- of art must live in a constant state of that most frequent- To choose balance is to trust in navigate it. We can let ourselves be didn’t have a car. The whole fam- a change. Nursing and the health ager for the Offi ce of Health and unplanned happened, equilibrium. Our world is home to ly presents as tight- swayed by the capricious winds of ily walked—to church, visit rela- profession had always attracted me Lifestyle Transition Services for the many excellent singers and players, ness and collapse. the embodied understanding a busy world, or we can discreetly tives, and go to school—so these and so I began study to become a Sisters of Charity of Convent Sta- God was there working but it could use more who are truly The resulting break take up our balance poles and walk, activities were good for health and registered nurse. The schedules and tion in Convent Station, NJ. through family, artists. An artist is one who can take in coordination, if that our many trials have given trusting that our feet will fi nd their socialization. My parents’ priorities routines required me to cope with the craft, allow it to explore sense, not corrected, com- stride. were family, church, community, a wide variety of situations and friends, or strangers to heart, and imagination, and share pounds to cause us. To walk a wire is to allow hard work, responsibility, respect, factors. It was frequently during the process and result of that fusion fatigue, injury, and Megan is a graduate student of the and self-discipline, which they these times that my knowledge and accompany me or just in a way that honors the self, the lis- a reduced palette ourselves to be suspended in College of Creative and Perform- imparted to their children mostly training would come to the fore and tener, the music, and the unknown. of sound-colors. ing Arts at Marywood University in through example. Although neither provide needed wisdom and grace. be present for me. An artist is humble, not by choice, The psyche, in a the ultimate ex�eriment. We as Scranton, PA. of my parents fi nished high school, Now that I have reached that but by defi nition. His/her journey pendular condi- I learned that they possessed a wis- period in life that is referred to as is one of shedding layers of ego into tion, oscillates to artists are charged with making dom and knowledge obtained from the new “middle age,” I fi nd my- vulnerability, a path humbling by its produce anxiety their life experiences and God-given self asking if my life is balanced. very nature. The craft is diffi cult, and mood swings. that choice in every moment. intelligence. They used what they Are the components of a holistic the music is diffi cult, the business is We fall prey to had and what was available to reach life—the physical, emotional, and diffi cult, and all serve to fi le away rollercoaster diets Spring 2014 Journey page 11 Life Long Learning On Balance and Artistry We come into this world head fi rst and go out feet fi rst; by Sister Helene Hicks, IHM by Megan Coiley in between, it is all a matt er of balance! -Paul Boese alance. Balance and freedom. the hard edges we tend to build on and work-out fads. We bounce from organic spinach-buying vegans at Equilibrium. Can more elusive our humanity. We are not invin- hard labor to couch potato mode. the supermarket. However, there ne of my college profes- their goals of raising a good fam- spiritual—functioning well? Are realities be found? These cible, nor are we always our best We humans move from temporary is a tendency and temptation to sors used to say that when ily, providing for a good education, they holistically interrelated? Have I Bwords describe an ideal, one that and most prepared musical selves, state to temporary state feeling like believe that engaging in ostensibly one discussed a topic it was teaching responsibility and respect balanced each of these facets of life is both necessary and, in its purest but we are us. We are the only ones the universe’s ping pong balls, and holistic activities—drinking green alwaysO important to make sure that and being examples and models of so that I am healthy and growing in form, almost inconceivable. Rarely who are us. The more often we risk there are very few resources to help smoothies and twisting ourselves one defi ne the topic being discussed. good Christian parents. relationship with my Creator as well do we experience such vertical- honestly being us, the closer we extricate us from the cycle. into pretzels—will be our way out Webster has numerous defi nitions It was from my family that I as with others? And how do I learn ity for more than an instant, yet come to artistry. It is well understood now that we of the tension-relaxation circuit. of the word balance. I prefer the learned about priorities, values, at- to stay in balance? journeying toward that state is an Balance, then, is an experiment. function most optimally when cen- There is a missing link in that men- simple one that states: a state of titudes, organization, and ability to As I look back over the years, I inherent part of what it means to be It is comprised of many smaller tered, present, and focused. Yoga tality. It is not those momentary equilibrium; or to arrange, adjust or adjust when the unexpected hap- fi nd that I have been blessed with a human. We are wired for it…built to experiments – daily practices of studios are brimming with people experiences that keep us healthy and proportion the various parts. pened. Life wasn’t always perfect, variety of gifts and have been given seek centricity. technical/musical challenges, hoping for some sense of peace. grounded; rather, it is a moment by In my life time I have had vari- clear cut, and easy, yet many times numerous opportunities. I have In music, that path is especially awareness of self and others, listen- Meditation is becoming more moment practice of awareness and ous experiences of balance starting it was in the diffi culties and hard- tried to take advantage of many, but salient. The entire realm of tech- ing, observing, and following one’s mainstream, and it is not uncom- choice that can lead us to the still at a very early age. As an infant, ships that the greatest lessons were not all. There were also times when As I look back over the nique is founded upon balance. own reactions – in short, living. If mon to encounter health-conscious, center at the top of the pendulum. trying to hold my head up was my learned and strength was obtained. I think, “I should have,” but didn’t. This is no simplifi cation. It is the we choose to learn Yoga, martial arts, and any other fi rst balancing experience. My body I had the good fortune of being Yet God continues to bless and pro- years, I nd that I have very reason for the diffi culty of from those experi- artistic fi eld can foster such a dis- and neck were not yet ready to hold able to go to the Catholic school tect me and work with my choices. attaining virtuosity at the piano. It ences, we can build cipline, but only if they are passed up my head and hence my mother in the parish and when I gradu- When the unexpected, unplanned been blessed with a is the crux of the singer’s challenge thicker wires to on by people who lead by example always needed to make sure that it ated from high school I entered the happened, God was there working to achieve the best possible reso- walk. To choose in addition to teaching directly. It was being held and balanced for me. convent. through family, friends, or strangers variety of gi s and have nance. Technique from instrument balance is to trust is not enough to merely enact the Thus began the fi rst of many balanc- Many of the values and priori- to accompany me or just be present to instrument is not so dissimilar. It in the embodied outward projections of these bodies ing acts in my life. I am sure that ties learned at home became refi ned for me. been given numerous is the human body, after all, which understanding that of knowledge; the fi elds must be most people can think of the numer- and sharpened as I went through the So balance is made up of failure moves to play them, and the human our many trials lived fully. ous balancing acts that are part of postulancy and novitiate and pre- and success, good and bad, health opportunities. I have body operates best within certain have given us. To And so it is with music. Music the life of a young child holding pared to become a teacher. Goals, and illness, confusion and order, tried to take advantage parameters. Balanced parameters. walk a wire is to is not a career that can be pursued that bottle of milk for the fi rst time, order, balance, and planning ahead fl exibility and routine. Balance is a How do I make sound? It cannot be allow ourselves to half-heartedly, for there are few walking, bike riding, and skating. were priorities. And one needed to mixture of opposites. Balance for of many, but not all. by forcing, but it also cannot be by be suspended in the jobs, little money to be made, and These are examples of physical bal- be ready to adapt to anything that me has been infl uenced and shaped letting every muscle go limp. We ultimate experi- much work to do. We struggle with ance that have to do with the body. may change the well-planned les- by people, events, and happenings  ere were also times are engaged bodies—alive, active, ment. We as artists insurance, hodge-podge careers, Then there are examples of balance sons of the day. As a young sister depending on my susceptibility to and dynamic. It isn’t a coincidence are charged with and fi nding enough time to practice. within relationships, relationships with energy and inquisitiveness I what surrounds me and how I dis- when I think, “I should that we apply the same word that making that choice We arrive at performances and bare with relatives, doctors, neighbors, was excited to get involved in many cern and choose what is important defi nes the craft of tightrope walk- in every moment. our very souls for people we do not playmates. These were all intro- different adventures and often life and necessary for a balanced life for have,” but didn’t. Yet ers. The physical nature of what When we do not know. In this profession, musicians duced to me at an early age and became very hectic and fast paced. me. To strive for a balanced life, I God continues to bless a musician does requires that each choose to step out are pushed onto their own high helped me to establish socialization School, college classes in the sum- need to recognize when it is unbal- part of the body function in a very of comfort into less wires— it is the unstated part of our as well as help build healthy rela- mers, convent life as well as sum- anced. This realization awakens my and protect me and specifi c and coordinated way. Bal- familiar arenas, we jobs. Our lives are lived up here, tionships. mer experiences became an integral need for others and God. Together ance is not a luxury; it is a lifestyle. encounter obstacles somewhere along the spectrum of My parents were hard working part of life. we can foster growth, wholeness, work with my choices. Without it, we are unable to make that cause us to dancing and clinging to the rope. It people. Mom was a stay-at-home After more than 20 years of peace and a world of possibilities. art. behave like pendu- is an oft-traveled spectrum. Howev- mother and Dad walked back teaching junior high school, I When the unexpected, Even the creation or the sharing lums. In technique, er, we do have a choice in how we and forth to work every day. We realized that I needed to consider Sister Helene serves as a case man- of art must live in a constant state of that most frequent- To choose balance is to trust in navigate it. We can let ourselves be didn’t have a car. The whole fam- a change. Nursing and the health ager for the Offi ce of Health and unplanned happened, equilibrium. Our world is home to ly presents as tight- swayed by the capricious winds of ily walked—to church, visit rela- profession had always attracted me Lifestyle Transition Services for the many excellent singers and players, ness and collapse. the embodied understanding a busy world, or we can discreetly tives, and go to school—so these and so I began study to become a Sisters of Charity of Convent Sta- God was there working but it could use more who are truly The resulting break take up our balance poles and walk, activities were good for health and registered nurse. The schedules and tion in Convent Station, NJ. through family, artists. An artist is one who can take in coordination, if that our many trials have given trusting that our feet will fi nd their socialization. My parents’ priorities routines required me to cope with the craft, allow it to explore sense, not corrected, com- stride. were family, church, community, a wide variety of situations and friends, or strangers to heart, and imagination, and share pounds to cause us. To walk a wire is to allow hard work, responsibility, respect, factors. It was frequently during the process and result of that fusion fatigue, injury, and Megan is a graduate student of the and self-discipline, which they these times that my knowledge and accompany me or just in a way that honors the self, the lis- a reduced palette ourselves to be suspended in College of Creative and Perform- imparted to their children mostly training would come to the fore and tener, the music, and the unknown. of sound-colors. ing Arts at Marywood University in through example. Although neither provide needed wisdom and grace. be present for me. An artist is humble, not by choice, The psyche, in a the ultimate ex�eriment. We as Scranton, PA. of my parents fi nished high school, Now that I have reached that but by defi nition. His/her journey pendular condi- I learned that they possessed a wis- period in life that is referred to as is one of shedding layers of ego into tion, oscillates to artists are charged with making dom and knowledge obtained from the new “middle age,” I fi nd my- vulnerability, a path humbling by its produce anxiety their life experiences and God-given self asking if my life is balanced. very nature. The craft is diffi cult, and mood swings. that choice in every moment. intelligence. They used what they Are the components of a holistic the music is diffi cult, the business is We fall prey to had and what was available to reach life—the physical, emotional, and diffi cult, and all serve to fi le away rollercoaster diets page 12 Journey Spring 2014 A Space Apart, Meant to be Shared Our Lady of Grace Montessori School and Center by Sister Ann Barbara DeSiano, IHM urning off busy Shelter Whether people come for and opens them to an awareness established group will bring their lar needs such as social ministry their membership for Advent or today. the school, helping others live Rock Road in Manhasset, a day of prayer, a private her- of God’s presence and love. own leader for a day of learning or Bible study, staff in-service Lenten prayer. In all of these Mary Stark, teacher, explains, balanced lives is an essential TNY on to the driveway mitage experience, a weekend Our mission is to create that and prayer. education or for a time for quiet, activities, our desire is to foster a “Within a Montessori classroom, element. That looks different marked Our Lady of Grace is a retreat or a week long experi- sacred, peaceful space where Parishes often use OLG for prayerful relaxation. Parish listening, receptive heart. children are taught all subjects for each person and different at cue to many who come here that ence of God’s presence, most are reconnection can happen. We Pre-Cana instruction, staff-build- groups such as Rosary Societ- While we are a small retreat as a ‘hands on’ experience. every stage of life. People seek their life is about to transition coming to experience a “shift” desire to allow each person ing, parish planning for particu- ies or Parish Councils also bring center, we can accommodate up Concrete materials are used work, but do not desire to work to a different pace and a differ- in their living. Some experi- who comes to experience God’s to sixty persons for a single day from the earliest ages. Children themselves to death; they wish ent reality. Hidden from eyes ence their lives as exhausting, unconditional love in his or her event and twenty persons for an also work within three year to live happily in the present and driving to the local mall is this out of control, frenzied or all- life. There is a beautiful sym- overnight event. We also have a age groups which gives them a not be swamped by indecision holy space we name Our Lady consuming due to work and metry to each room in our Cen- small building which serves as a more realistic social experience, or regret; they want to reach out, of Grace Center, just uphill from family responsibilities. Others ter which projects both calm hermitage for those who wish to almost mirroring their future in but do not want to take on so our Montessori School. Since are dealing with signifi cant life and relaxation. Large windows be alone for a space of time for the work place. Older children much that their own balance is our IHM community received issues—recovery and addiction, show the beauty of the natural an individual retreat and provide mentor their younger classmates lost in the process; they are often this property as a gift in 1959 we health problems, relationship is- landscape, preserved over many for their own meals. Retreats and the younger children value good to others but not too gener- have strived to make it a center sues or unfi nished business from years. Rooms are spacious and which are open to the public the opinions and advice of the ous with their own needs; they of peace and learning, both for past events. Many are the walk- inviting. Food is nourishing and can be found on our web site at older children.” In this way they want to pare down those ele- our retreat seekers and for the ing wounded, and many come delicious, and an environment of OLGmanhasset.com by clicking learn to cultivate the skills of ments in their life that are need- children who attend our school. who have been apart from the quiet prayerfulness radiates from on the heading RETREATS. It grace, courtesy and empathy… lessly sapping time and energy; Pat Cuccia, a longtime friend Church for a period of time and this space. Our chapel is large, is also possible to call our Center In short, it builds well balanced, and they want to fi nd ways to of OLG, summed this up, saying, are searching to fi ll a spiritual simple and fl ooded with natural (516-627-9255) and speak with happy children. make room for more joy. Our “For many of us who have been void that lingers. They come in light. Our small staff is dedicated someone about planning an event Children, who call the Center Lady of Grace is a place where attending functions for twenty search of a renewed hope and and mighty when it comes to for a particular group. their “castle,” use this space for all those needs are being ad- years or so, balance is what we spiritual healing, and to recon- meeting the needs of our visitors! It is not just the Center that fun events such as Christmas dressed. seek at OLG. The welcoming nect with God. A variety of retreat leaders engages in ministry, but Our plays, dinner with Santa, or St. To experience the fullness that ‘serenity’ sign posted on the We invite others to come in helps minister to the needs that Lady of Grace Montessori Patrick’s Day party and the Eas- is Our Lady of Grace, you must tree in the driveway signals a and unplug from the frantic tech- varied groups present. Both School also seeks to meet the ter Egg hunt, for spiritual events come and see! change of pace for us who are nological demands of their work sisters and priests from different spiritual, emotional, physical and such as special Masses and cel- so busy with the things of this and home lives and enter into religious backgrounds offer days educational needs of the young ebration of Sacraments and for Sister Ann Barbara serves as world. For many years when I the silence. Putting aside cell of prayer, weekend experiences children in our care. At present educational experiences like the the Administrator of Our Lady was working in such a stressful phones, texts, emails, Facebook for learning and sharing faith and 180 students from Nursery to annual Book Fair, art classes on of Grace Montessori School and job, OLG brought me back to the and other social media, even for weeklong retreats offering indi- Grade Three attend our school. our side porch or nature walks on Center in Manhasset, NY. center and served as my fulcrum a short period of time, can help vidual spiritual direction. Some Teachers and parents fi nd that our grounds. Through these ex- www.olgmanhasset.com when things tipped too much one soothe the inner spirit that craves retreats are primarily contempla- the Montessori pedagogy is the periences the Center and School way or the other. It is an impor- space to “just be.” Such interior tive, and some focus on some perfect antidote to the frenetic really become “one” blessed tant place for many looking for quiet gives visitors a chance to specifi c aspect of our faith such lifestyle of many young children space. respite on Long Island. feel joyful, peaceful and grateful as discipleship. Many times an Etching of Our Lady of Grace by Sister Fran Fasolka, IHM Through both the Center and

Our Lady of Grace Center Administrator of Our Lady of Grace Our Lady of Grace Montessori School Swimming pool at Our Lady of Grace Principal of Our Lady of Grace Montessori Chapel at Our Lady of Grace One of many bedrooms at Our Lady of Grace Montessori School and Center, School, Sister Kelly Quinn, IHM Sister Ann Barbara DeSiano, IHM Spring 2014 Journey page 13 A Space Apart, Meant to be Shared Our Lady of Grace Montessori School and Center by Sister Ann Barbara DeSiano, IHM urning off busy Shelter Whether people come for and opens them to an awareness established group will bring their lar needs such as social ministry their membership for Advent or today. the school, helping others live Rock Road in Manhasset, a day of prayer, a private her- of God’s presence and love. own leader for a day of learning or Bible study, staff in-service Lenten prayer. In all of these Mary Stark, teacher, explains, balanced lives is an essential TNY on to the driveway mitage experience, a weekend Our mission is to create that and prayer. education or for a time for quiet, activities, our desire is to foster a “Within a Montessori classroom, element. That looks different marked Our Lady of Grace is a retreat or a week long experi- sacred, peaceful space where Parishes often use OLG for prayerful relaxation. Parish listening, receptive heart. children are taught all subjects for each person and different at cue to many who come here that ence of God’s presence, most are reconnection can happen. We Pre-Cana instruction, staff-build- groups such as Rosary Societ- While we are a small retreat as a ‘hands on’ experience. every stage of life. People seek their life is about to transition coming to experience a “shift” desire to allow each person ing, parish planning for particu- ies or Parish Councils also bring center, we can accommodate up Concrete materials are used work, but do not desire to work to a different pace and a differ- in their living. Some experi- who comes to experience God’s to sixty persons for a single day from the earliest ages. Children themselves to death; they wish ent reality. Hidden from eyes ence their lives as exhausting, unconditional love in his or her event and twenty persons for an also work within three year to live happily in the present and driving to the local mall is this out of control, frenzied or all- life. There is a beautiful sym- overnight event. We also have a age groups which gives them a not be swamped by indecision holy space we name Our Lady consuming due to work and metry to each room in our Cen- small building which serves as a more realistic social experience, or regret; they want to reach out, of Grace Center, just uphill from family responsibilities. Others ter which projects both calm hermitage for those who wish to almost mirroring their future in but do not want to take on so our Montessori School. Since are dealing with signifi cant life and relaxation. Large windows be alone for a space of time for the work place. Older children much that their own balance is our IHM community received issues—recovery and addiction, show the beauty of the natural an individual retreat and provide mentor their younger classmates lost in the process; they are often this property as a gift in 1959 we health problems, relationship is- landscape, preserved over many for their own meals. Retreats and the younger children value good to others but not too gener- have strived to make it a center sues or unfi nished business from years. Rooms are spacious and which are open to the public the opinions and advice of the ous with their own needs; they of peace and learning, both for past events. Many are the walk- inviting. Food is nourishing and can be found on our web site at older children.” In this way they want to pare down those ele- our retreat seekers and for the ing wounded, and many come delicious, and an environment of OLGmanhasset.com by clicking learn to cultivate the skills of ments in their life that are need- children who attend our school. who have been apart from the quiet prayerfulness radiates from on the heading RETREATS. It grace, courtesy and empathy… lessly sapping time and energy; Pat Cuccia, a longtime friend Church for a period of time and this space. Our chapel is large, is also possible to call our Center In short, it builds well balanced, and they want to fi nd ways to of OLG, summed this up, saying, are searching to fi ll a spiritual simple and fl ooded with natural (516-627-9255) and speak with happy children. make room for more joy. Our “For many of us who have been void that lingers. They come in light. Our small staff is dedicated someone about planning an event Children, who call the Center Lady of Grace is a place where attending functions for twenty search of a renewed hope and and mighty when it comes to for a particular group. their “castle,” use this space for all those needs are being ad- years or so, balance is what we spiritual healing, and to recon- meeting the needs of our visitors! It is not just the Center that fun events such as Christmas dressed. seek at OLG. The welcoming nect with God. A variety of retreat leaders engages in ministry, but Our plays, dinner with Santa, or St. To experience the fullness that ‘serenity’ sign posted on the We invite others to come in helps minister to the needs that Lady of Grace Montessori Patrick’s Day party and the Eas- is Our Lady of Grace, you must tree in the driveway signals a and unplug from the frantic tech- varied groups present. Both School also seeks to meet the ter Egg hunt, for spiritual events come and see! change of pace for us who are nological demands of their work sisters and priests from different spiritual, emotional, physical and such as special Masses and cel- so busy with the things of this and home lives and enter into religious backgrounds offer days educational needs of the young ebration of Sacraments and for Sister Ann Barbara serves as world. For many years when I the silence. Putting aside cell of prayer, weekend experiences children in our care. At present educational experiences like the the Administrator of Our Lady was working in such a stressful phones, texts, emails, Facebook for learning and sharing faith and 180 students from Nursery to annual Book Fair, art classes on of Grace Montessori School and job, OLG brought me back to the and other social media, even for weeklong retreats offering indi- Grade Three attend our school. our side porch or nature walks on Center in Manhasset, NY. center and served as my fulcrum a short period of time, can help vidual spiritual direction. Some Teachers and parents fi nd that our grounds. Through these ex- www.olgmanhasset.com when things tipped too much one soothe the inner spirit that craves retreats are primarily contempla- the Montessori pedagogy is the periences the Center and School way or the other. It is an impor- space to “just be.” Such interior tive, and some focus on some perfect antidote to the frenetic really become “one” blessed tant place for many looking for quiet gives visitors a chance to specifi c aspect of our faith such lifestyle of many young children space. respite on Long Island. feel joyful, peaceful and grateful as discipleship. Many times an Etching of Our Lady of Grace by Sister Fran Fasolka, IHM Through both the Center and

Our Lady of Grace Center Administrator of Our Lady of Grace Our Lady of Grace Montessori School Swimming pool at Our Lady of Grace Principal of Our Lady of Grace Montessori Chapel at Our Lady of Grace One of many bedrooms at Our Lady of Grace Montessori School and Center, School, Sister Kelly Quinn, IHM Sister Ann Barbara DeSiano, IHM page 14 Journey Spring 2014

A Cas of Vertigo by Sister Joan Bastress, IHM n several occasions, I have called balance. our own inner well-being alone. by Colleen Therese Grogan IN INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE Daring to Dream suffered from vertigo. My God seems to echo the doctor’s Why? Each of us has personally nnovation in architecture is ful architecture since but to the city of woodworking. To give you a sense doctor says that a fl uid imbal- order: “Be still and know that I am experienced failure to do so even forever changing. Respecting its founding in the Scranton it would or an idea of the size of this massive ance in the inner ear causes this God.” (Psalm 46:10) This is the with our best human efforts. “I try Ithe traditions of old architec- 1840s. From the be a signifi cant and three storey building, there is an ailment.O This imbalance is a nasty posture of prayer. It is a call to rest but my anger gets the best of me.” ture and embracing a building’s past Iron Furnaces to the exciting change! open working fl oor space of approx- experience which is accompanied in God’s presence creating a time- “I just cannot seem to overcome my is the fi rst step in adaptive reuse. Scranton Culture This concept would imately 37,500 square feet, which is by dizziness and nausea. If you out period. Resting in God has all dislike for him/her.” “Oops! I said The term “adaptive reuse” is the Center, this city is fi t nicely into this almost equal to the size of a football attempt to walk about the room, you the curative powers of restoring our it again!” “Gosh, that extra dough- process of adapting old structures rich with historical historical building fi eld. The immense amount of raw stagger and worsen the condition. well-being and balance. It makes nut just seemed to gravitate itself for new purposes. Adaptive reuse architecture. The se- due to the layout of materials of steel, pig iron, plate Everything seems to move around our world stop spinning around us, into my mouth!” “Did you say New has become one of the new ad- lection for my thesis the building itself iron and brass that were brought you. During these episodes, the centers us, and, slowly but surely, Year’s resolutions? I seem to make vancements in interior architectural is a structure that I and the site location into the Dickson Works Building doctor advises you to lie very still brings us back to health. We come them for the sole purpose of break- design. It is the ability to create a feel is one of Scran- with respect to the during the mid-to-late 1800s to the until your body and/or medication to a comfort level where we are re- ing them!” “Help, I can’t cope with balance between preserving the old ton’s unknown archi- downtown. early 1900s was used to produce corrects the imbalance. Vertigo is assured that Someone truly loves us, this fast-paced, exhausting lifestyle. and developing the new. This bal- tectural gems, the Dickson Works It was easy for me to fall in love approximately 1,700 locomotives also described as a disorder of the is taking care of us, is leveling off My head is swirling with things to ...prayer with its ance between old and new designs Building. My thesis is an investiga- with the Dickson Works Building for railroad companies throughout inner ear. the imbalance we feel, and under- do and places to go!” has been such a strong focus for me tion of preserving this signifi cant (which some of you may recognize the United States and abroad. As Imbalance and disorder occur stands the cause of our “vertigo.” It is at these times that the doc- silence and solitude not only during this past year, but historical industrial structure, while as the Dunder Miffl in building from an interior architecture and design in our lives whether we want it or We have learned by experience, tor’s voice echoes in our ears: “You during my undergraduate studies as at the same time enhancing the il- the television show, The Offi ce). It student, I was excited to see the not. We are thrown off balance by that we cannot solve external prob- need to rest, to be still in God’s has the ability to well. In our furniture design class lumination of daylight within the in- is located just on the fringe of what interior exposed roof trusses made so many things in our lives whether lems solely by ourselves. We work presence until the vertigo subsides restore that wonderful as an undergraduate student, I took terior space through creative design is considered downtown Scranton. of wood that are complimented by they are physical, psychological, at resolving our nation’s challenges and your balance is restored.” St. existing objects and repurposed using the adaptive reuse theory. The The building was constructed in elegantly designed wrought-iron tie spiritual, internal or external. We of immigration, prejudice, and Teresa of Avila describes prayer as well-being within them into new furniture. When an program is to design a marketplace 1856 for the manufacturing and members. Another unique architec- experience the death of a loved unjust wages realizing all the while the gift of “being alone with Him individual designs with the past, one in this building, whose vast open- repair of machinery and boilers tural design was the use of clere- one, an unexpected physical illness, that we must partner with God to alone,” in other words, of resting ourselves called must have a passion for its future ness provides for a variety of spaces during the explosion of the coal story windows that run the entire a devastating testing of our faith, accomplish our goals. Of the battles in God. If we follow the doctor’s purpose. of different scales, creating a unique mining industry area in this region. length of the building. The exten- an unexplained abandonment by a and challenges within ourselves - advice, prayer with its silence and balance. After obtaining my undergradu- opportunity for multiple uses. This The company manufactured loco- sive use of windows throughout friend, a sudden release from a min- our temptations to sin, our sharp solitude has the ability to restore ate degree in Interior Architecture new marketplace then becomes a motives, stationary engines, blast this structure is evident when one is istry we love, the maddening pace tongues, our selfi shness, our put- that wonderful well-being within and Design in 2013, I decided to destination for potential customers furnaces, and boilers. The building standing both inside and outside of of today’s world and a host of other downs of self and others, our an- ourselves called balance. continue my education and strive from outside the area. Larger cities which was named after the Dickson this building. One must remember circumstances. We need desperately gers, our overeating or drinking, our “Be still and know that I am Sister Joan serves as a pastoral towards obtaining my Master’s such as New York, Philadelphia family who started the Dickson the electric light bulb as we know it, to fi nd a way to restore that won- failed Be-attitudes—we absolutely God.” minister at Good Samaritan Nursing degree in the same fi eld. I have such and Washington, DC, are within Manufacturing Co., was divided was not invented until 1879, and not derful well-being within ourselves know that we cannot bring about Center in Baltimore, MD. a deep passion for adaptive reuse two to four hours driving distance into different departments which readily available for commercial or and I was given the freedom during from Scranton, thereby creating included: engineers, draftsmen, industrial use until the early 1900s. this thesis year to choose an existing the potential for this site to become designers, artists, tool and pattern Therefore, natural lighting was the continued from page 12 structure of my choice. The city of a tourist destination. The concept makers, as well as shops for con- only means for a building this size to be able to operate in the capacity use of the interior space and its cir- Another opportunity for adap- on the balance between old and new Scranton is known for such beauti- of a marketplace is nothing new, struction, machines, foundries, and continued on page 13 as described above. culation. For instance local farmers, tive reuse is to restore an abandoned design that has really touched and After an exhaustive search of who will now have a year round railroad bridge leading to the build- inspired me as a designer. Enric local, state and national archives, venue, will occupy the north side of ing that now exists but that has been Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabure the original structural and architec- the building which is in shade for out of service for many years, into (EMBT), an architectural fi rm that tural plans from the 1860s could most of the day, thereby allowing a combined pedestrian walkway rehabilitated the Santa Caterina not be located. Therefore, a fi eld their fruits and vegetables to remain bridge and railway service. A newly Market in Barcelona, Spain said, survey was performed in order to cool and dry. Daylight shall be the created entrance would allow access “The fi rst mistake is to talk about document the existing conditions order and disorder of the warehouse. to the marketplace from an area old and new. Whatever has managed by measuring the structure, along Other possible vendors selected that is home to a medical college, a to survive into the present is current, with producing an extensive photo might be a coffee house, which hospital, and various apartments and useful, and contemporary. And it documentation of the building. The would use natural light for patrons high rise complexes. Connection to permits us to move back in time in architectural design of the build- to sit and read while enjoying a cup; the nearby Lackawanna River Heri- order to continue forward.” ing with its rhythmic elements of various small eateries strategically tage Trail would open the market to texture and textile patterns that vary positioned throughout the build- users of this newly created running/ Colleen Therese is a graduate along its length will create differ- ing capitalizing on various light- walking trail. student in the School of Architecture ent effects of daylight in the vari- ing opportunities to enhance their Although my thesis is theoretical at Marywood University in Scran- ous bays of the marketplace. These operations; local artisans would be in nature and the Dickson Works ton, PA. She may be contacted at lighting effects will compliment able to display their wares in unique Building is currently occupied, the [email protected] vendors chosen specifi cally for lighting settings. The ability to in- possibilities are endless when one certain areas within the building. In corporate seating areas in the clock considers adaptive reuse as a viable this way, the human senses will play tower and other locations within the architectural approach to preserving a signifi cant role in this program structure will provide unique pan- our past and our future. development and it is how these oramic views overlooking various I end with this quote that I had Watercolor painting by Colleen of the Colleen in front of the Dickson Works Building in dowtown Scranton senses will contribute to the overall parts of the city. found during my research this year interior of the building Spring 2014 Journey page 15

A Cas of Vertigo by Sister Joan Bastress, IHM n several occasions, I have called balance. our own inner well-being alone. by Colleen Therese Grogan IN INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE Daring to Dream suffered from vertigo. My God seems to echo the doctor’s Why? Each of us has personally nnovation in architecture is ful architecture since but to the city of woodworking. To give you a sense doctor says that a fl uid imbal- order: “Be still and know that I am experienced failure to do so even forever changing. Respecting its founding in the Scranton it would or an idea of the size of this massive ance in the inner ear causes this God.” (Psalm 46:10) This is the with our best human efforts. “I try Ithe traditions of old architec- 1840s. From the be a signifi cant and three storey building, there is an ailment.O This imbalance is a nasty posture of prayer. It is a call to rest but my anger gets the best of me.” ture and embracing a building’s past Iron Furnaces to the exciting change! open working fl oor space of approx- experience which is accompanied in God’s presence creating a time- “I just cannot seem to overcome my is the fi rst step in adaptive reuse. Scranton Culture This concept would imately 37,500 square feet, which is by dizziness and nausea. If you out period. Resting in God has all dislike for him/her.” “Oops! I said The term “adaptive reuse” is the Center, this city is fi t nicely into this almost equal to the size of a football attempt to walk about the room, you the curative powers of restoring our it again!” “Gosh, that extra dough- process of adapting old structures rich with historical historical building fi eld. The immense amount of raw stagger and worsen the condition. well-being and balance. It makes nut just seemed to gravitate itself for new purposes. Adaptive reuse architecture. The se- due to the layout of materials of steel, pig iron, plate Everything seems to move around our world stop spinning around us, into my mouth!” “Did you say New has become one of the new ad- lection for my thesis the building itself iron and brass that were brought you. During these episodes, the centers us, and, slowly but surely, Year’s resolutions? I seem to make vancements in interior architectural is a structure that I and the site location into the Dickson Works Building doctor advises you to lie very still brings us back to health. We come them for the sole purpose of break- design. It is the ability to create a feel is one of Scran- with respect to the during the mid-to-late 1800s to the until your body and/or medication to a comfort level where we are re- ing them!” “Help, I can’t cope with balance between preserving the old ton’s unknown archi- downtown. early 1900s was used to produce corrects the imbalance. Vertigo is assured that Someone truly loves us, this fast-paced, exhausting lifestyle. and developing the new. This bal- tectural gems, the Dickson Works It was easy for me to fall in love approximately 1,700 locomotives also described as a disorder of the is taking care of us, is leveling off My head is swirling with things to ...prayer with its ance between old and new designs Building. My thesis is an investiga- with the Dickson Works Building for railroad companies throughout inner ear. the imbalance we feel, and under- do and places to go!” has been such a strong focus for me tion of preserving this signifi cant (which some of you may recognize the United States and abroad. As Imbalance and disorder occur stands the cause of our “vertigo.” It is at these times that the doc- silence and solitude not only during this past year, but historical industrial structure, while as the Dunder Miffl in building from an interior architecture and design in our lives whether we want it or We have learned by experience, tor’s voice echoes in our ears: “You during my undergraduate studies as at the same time enhancing the il- the television show, The Offi ce). It student, I was excited to see the not. We are thrown off balance by that we cannot solve external prob- need to rest, to be still in God’s has the ability to well. In our furniture design class lumination of daylight within the in- is located just on the fringe of what interior exposed roof trusses made so many things in our lives whether lems solely by ourselves. We work presence until the vertigo subsides restore that wonderful as an undergraduate student, I took terior space through creative design is considered downtown Scranton. of wood that are complimented by they are physical, psychological, at resolving our nation’s challenges and your balance is restored.” St. existing objects and repurposed using the adaptive reuse theory. The The building was constructed in elegantly designed wrought-iron tie spiritual, internal or external. We of immigration, prejudice, and Teresa of Avila describes prayer as well-being within them into new furniture. When an program is to design a marketplace 1856 for the manufacturing and members. Another unique architec- experience the death of a loved unjust wages realizing all the while the gift of “being alone with Him individual designs with the past, one in this building, whose vast open- repair of machinery and boilers tural design was the use of clere- one, an unexpected physical illness, that we must partner with God to alone,” in other words, of resting ourselves called must have a passion for its future ness provides for a variety of spaces during the explosion of the coal story windows that run the entire a devastating testing of our faith, accomplish our goals. Of the battles in God. If we follow the doctor’s purpose. of different scales, creating a unique mining industry area in this region. length of the building. The exten- an unexplained abandonment by a and challenges within ourselves - advice, prayer with its silence and balance. After obtaining my undergradu- opportunity for multiple uses. This The company manufactured loco- sive use of windows throughout friend, a sudden release from a min- our temptations to sin, our sharp solitude has the ability to restore ate degree in Interior Architecture new marketplace then becomes a motives, stationary engines, blast this structure is evident when one is istry we love, the maddening pace tongues, our selfi shness, our put- that wonderful well-being within and Design in 2013, I decided to destination for potential customers furnaces, and boilers. The building standing both inside and outside of of today’s world and a host of other downs of self and others, our an- ourselves called balance. continue my education and strive from outside the area. Larger cities which was named after the Dickson this building. One must remember circumstances. We need desperately gers, our overeating or drinking, our “Be still and know that I am Sister Joan serves as a pastoral towards obtaining my Master’s such as New York, Philadelphia family who started the Dickson the electric light bulb as we know it, to fi nd a way to restore that won- failed Be-attitudes—we absolutely God.” minister at Good Samaritan Nursing degree in the same fi eld. I have such and Washington, DC, are within Manufacturing Co., was divided was not invented until 1879, and not derful well-being within ourselves know that we cannot bring about Center in Baltimore, MD. a deep passion for adaptive reuse two to four hours driving distance into different departments which readily available for commercial or and I was given the freedom during from Scranton, thereby creating included: engineers, draftsmen, industrial use until the early 1900s. this thesis year to choose an existing the potential for this site to become designers, artists, tool and pattern Therefore, natural lighting was the continued from page 12 structure of my choice. The city of a tourist destination. The concept makers, as well as shops for con- only means for a building this size to be able to operate in the capacity use of the interior space and its cir- Another opportunity for adap- on the balance between old and new Scranton is known for such beauti- of a marketplace is nothing new, struction, machines, foundries, and continued on page 13 as described above. culation. For instance local farmers, tive reuse is to restore an abandoned design that has really touched and After an exhaustive search of who will now have a year round railroad bridge leading to the build- inspired me as a designer. Enric local, state and national archives, venue, will occupy the north side of ing that now exists but that has been Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabure the original structural and architec- the building which is in shade for out of service for many years, into (EMBT), an architectural fi rm that tural plans from the 1860s could most of the day, thereby allowing a combined pedestrian walkway rehabilitated the Santa Caterina not be located. Therefore, a fi eld their fruits and vegetables to remain bridge and railway service. A newly Market in Barcelona, Spain said, survey was performed in order to cool and dry. Daylight shall be the created entrance would allow access “The fi rst mistake is to talk about document the existing conditions order and disorder of the warehouse. to the marketplace from an area old and new. Whatever has managed by measuring the structure, along Other possible vendors selected that is home to a medical college, a to survive into the present is current, with producing an extensive photo might be a coffee house, which hospital, and various apartments and useful, and contemporary. And it documentation of the building. The would use natural light for patrons high rise complexes. Connection to permits us to move back in time in architectural design of the build- to sit and read while enjoying a cup; the nearby Lackawanna River Heri- order to continue forward.” ing with its rhythmic elements of various small eateries strategically tage Trail would open the market to texture and textile patterns that vary positioned throughout the build- users of this newly created running/ Colleen Therese is a graduate along its length will create differ- ing capitalizing on various light- walking trail. student in the School of Architecture ent effects of daylight in the vari- ing opportunities to enhance their Although my thesis is theoretical at Marywood University in Scran- ous bays of the marketplace. These operations; local artisans would be in nature and the Dickson Works ton, PA. She may be contacted at lighting effects will compliment able to display their wares in unique Building is currently occupied, the [email protected] vendors chosen specifi cally for lighting settings. The ability to in- possibilities are endless when one certain areas within the building. In corporate seating areas in the clock considers adaptive reuse as a viable this way, the human senses will play tower and other locations within the architectural approach to preserving a signifi cant role in this program structure will provide unique pan- our past and our future. development and it is how these oramic views overlooking various I end with this quote that I had Watercolor painting by Colleen of the Colleen in front of the Dickson Works Building in dowtown Scranton senses will contribute to the overall parts of the city. found during my research this year interior of the building page 16 Journey Spring 2014

Words of Wisdo by Sisters o of IHM Finding Balanc

I take a deep Painting, Reading, woods with one of our dogs, sawing One of the ways I breath, close my taking in nature and splitting wood for the winter, create balance in eyes and imagine and watching the watching the beauty of sunrises, and my life is to enjoy I’m watching Red Sox help me thanking God for the wild animals a good pizza with the waves at the keep a balance in that we see in our yard. friends. ocean. my life. Jane Hardison, IHM Rosemary Goulet, Grace Campbell, Jacqueline IHM IHM Donohue, IHM My abiding and ever deeper Darme tiempo Mindfulness My relationship faith, trust in and para refl exionar helps me main- with God keeps surrender to the y tomar deci- tain balance in me balanced: God who loves siones para que my life. Inviting centering prayer me passionately, las cosas vayan myself to live in the morning companions me mejor. completely and opens me to lis- always, and asks Norma Poma fully in the pres- tening; priorities of me only what we together can be Arpi, IHM ent moment. for the day that and do helps me maintain balance in Mary Ellen Higgins, IHM must be accomplished are set; inter- my daily living. ruptions give pause to my agenda Margaret Mary Causlon, IHM With a brief “Je- and force me to rethink God’s will sus, be with me”, To maintain bal- causing me to exclaim, “I guess You my fi rst choice ance in my life, didn’t want it that way.” And prayer I currently reside at maintaining I pray, read, do brings me peace. at Our Lady of balance is to rest crossword puz- Mary Schoberg, IHM Peace Residence and/or sleep. With zles, walk, cook, and I fi nd that mental and physi- bake, clean, visit combining my cal equilibrium family. When the world personal prayer restored, I delete an unnecessary ac- Joan Quinn, IHM is spinning too life with daily tivity from my schedule and spend quickly: I stop, reception of the the saved time in quiet prayer. step back, breathe, Eucharist, taking part in the various Joan Bastress, IHM To maintain bal- and close my activities offered here and enjoying ance, I try to just eyes... and say doing “fun” craft projects, helps me stop for a mo- “don’t sweat the live a well-rounded balanced life Working at a ment of silence small stuff.” Or, each day. large state uni- and stillness, “God, you got me into this; help me Rosarii Hemmer, IHM versity campus, I not working on get through it!” Or, “Give me the have the oppor- anything or even grace to accept others as they are.” tunity to witness thinking about Elizabeth Pearson, IHM Remembering to God’s pres- anything. that God loves me ence within and Christine Mihelich, IHM unconditionally among faculty, To maintain bal- points to includ- staff and students on a daily basis— ance in my life ing others who to see His peace shared by all. I try to remain I walk, exercise, walk the journey Maureen Schrimpe, IHM focused on the enjoy the out- of a day with me. demands of the doors in good Catherine present moment weather, visit Gilvary, IHM Since I am with and do the best I with family and children all day can. friends, read, eat fi ve days a week, Mary Martha regularly, and sleep. I start my day I balance by once Gardiner, IHM Ellen Carney, IHM with prayer and I a month driving end my day with folks, on the par- prayer. ish bus to the 4:30 Dream, dance, My reply to Dorothy Kibler, p.m. Mass; they walk, wonder, “Balance in my IHM are so grateful that they can partici- pray, play, to- life”— participat- pate with the parish community. gether and alone. ing instrumentally Florence Marino, IHM Chris Koell- during Saturday hoffer, IHM afternoon Mass, walking in the Spring 2014 Journey page 17

Words of Wisdo by Sisters o of IHM Finding Balanc

To keep meeting It is too easy to let My prayer time I maintain balance students, faculty, ourselves become is my best help in in my daily life the Sisters I live torn, frazzled and keeping balance and ministry as a with in a balanced over committed in my life. This Telespond Volun- fashion, fi rst off, with all we have morning for ex- teer Companion. I need Jesus as a “to do.” Keeping ample I read this I mostly visit the constant compan- a clear focus on scripture quote sisters at OLP ion. He keeps me each values-based in Living Faith: or take them to calm and cheerful. Then, since days commitment, one can put forth best “Look to the Lord in his strength; appointments, shopping, or even an are packed, I count myself lucky effort and be enriched by the gift of seek to serve him constantly.” I said, outing for enjoyment. This not only to have a few relaxing moments to self. “Okay, Lord, this is my mantra for brings the sisters enjoyment but I read or play a computer game. Ann Monica Bubser, IHM today.” too benefi t from the praise, compli- Claudette Naylor, IHM M. Alphonsa Concilio, IHM ments and joy they give to me for my kindness. One way I keep Annellen Kelly, IHM I pray quietly, balanced is by I listen to my work diligently, stopping in the body, pay atten- laugh heartily, gallery of the tion to what’s There’s nothing and love faith- Chapel for a happening in my like a dose of fully to balance peaceful minute prayer, exercise, perspective to my relationship or two when- eating habits, put everything with God, com- ever I can during rest, ministry, in balance; when munity, family hectic days. and relationships; the scales are tip- and friends, and employer. Dolores Filicko, IHM then I try to make good decisions. ping a bit to the Marie Lourdes Vanston, IHM Regina Burns, IHM stressful side, it’s gratitude for the wonderful people Quiet, especially and many blessings that fi ll my life To keep my prayerful quiet, I think my answer that brings everything back to an balance, I try to is a major means is quite simple: even keel. recall often the of establishing work, pray, and Mary Persico, IHM presence of God balance in my play! We are in my life and the life. I simply must indeed busy folks life of all persons. step back from the who have lots to A Burke is inca- Joel Marie noise and busy- do, but we have pable of saying Sheehe, IHM ness that I often experience in my to rely on the anything with life in order to be centered/balanced. Lord for our strength and to free just one sentence. Linda Anne Greenberg, IHM ourselves simply to be (that which I There is too much An early morning call play in whatever form that may of the Blarney riser with ample take - a sport, a card game, some Stone running time for contem- Right now I am a TV watching, or simply taking a through the blood- plation, I pri- little off balance walk). stream! oritize daily tasks but I do know Ruthanne Gypalo, IHM Margaret Burke, IHM with resolve to what is needed to live fully in the gain the balance. present moment. That in itself is a Balance in my ... I take grateful Anita Maleski, IHM gift, a grace. As life results when advantage of one they say in golf - I can focus to- of the bless- it’s the follow through that counts. tally on what it is ings of old age: The 8 hour rule: 8 Lenore Thomas, IHM I am doing at the part-time status, for working- 8 for moment. which gives me resting- 8 for pure Mary Jo time for prayer, being (pure enjoy- Music…fresh Gallagher, IHM thought, refl ec- ment of life). air…wisdom of tion, -- while allowing time for Donna Korba, Thomas Merton teaching and parish activities; what IHM Jean Leonard, a wonderful gift! IHM Beverly Hmel, IHM page 18 Journey Spring 2014

Friends of God In Memoriam and lovers of the dream

dogs! There was quite a change in ful advocate for her many family the quiet convent life we were used members. She persistently prayed to, but Margaret met it all with an for their needs and well-being. She open heart and big smile. was always there to rejoice with Now, I’m sure, that smile is them in joys and accomplishments everlasting as she shares in the joys and to encourage them in their of eternal life. Rest peacefully, my challenging moments. Her family friend, and present before our God always counted on her prayers and all the tiddlywinks you left on earth. she never let them down. Sister Gertrude had an interest in her students and encouraged them to work to their ability. She worked Sister M. Jacinta Guinther, IHM Sister Margaret Clarke, IHM very hard preparing her academic September 11, 1926 April 29, 1921 materials. She was a master teacher September 19, 2013 October 31, 2013 and administrator. As a principal, by the Sisters from St. Joseph by Sister Ruthanne Gypalo, IHM Sister worked at keeping all aspects Convent, Carbondale, PA of school life in order. The staff, teachers, students, and parents ap- When asked to share some mem- preciated her devotion and dedica- Those who lead many to justice ories of Sister Margaret, I thought tion to the school community. will shine like stars for all eternity. back to the very fi rst time that I met After more than sixty years of -Daniel 12:3b her. Of course, at that point, she ministry, Sister Gertrude accepted was Sister Emelia and I was a sixth her illness with graciousness and Sister Jacinta was preeminently grader at St. Mary of the Mount faith. She was a good patient and a teacher. School was her joy and School in Pittsburgh. Through my Sister M. Gertrude Hopkins, IHM kind to all who served her needs. her lifeline – particularly teaching eyes she was just one of several February 28, 1918 Even in her illness, she showed religion. Each day her focus was happy young sisters living together. November 3, 2013 concern for family and community leading morning prayer at Sacred Little did I think then that years by Sister Mary William Philbin, IHM members. She never ceased to pray Heart Elementary School and later later we would spend some 22 years for all in need. After many years LaSalle Academy. The children as sisters together! Who was Sister Gertrude Hop- of life God called Sister Gertrude from Pre-k to eighth grade gathered Sister Margaret and I moved to kins? She was a devoted and loving home. She is deeply missed by all and prayed together every morn- East Rockaway in 1986 and worked daughter, sister, and aunt. She was who knew her, especially her dear ing. They learned their prayers, together until her retirement from a dedicated and energetic principal, brother, Robert, and her many de- the rosary, the Stations, prayed for school in 2008. During her time teacher, and librarian. It did not voted nieces and nephews. family members who were sick at St. Raymond’s, Margaret taught matter what the title or the respon- We all thank you, Sister Ger- and for world concerns that Sister third grade before serving as the sibility of her position, she met her trude, for your example of selfl ess Jacinta brought to their attention. It librarian and working with all of our ministry needs with love and great love and fruitful ministry. May you started their day–and hers. She gave children whom she affectionately care. rest in the loving embrace of God. this prayer time her life and her best referred to as “tiddlywinks” (usually She was born in Pittston and energy. Sister Jacinta wanted to die meaning that she couldn’t quickly educated in St. John the Evangelist “with her boots on” and her prayer remember their names!). I learned School. She was a student who en- was answered. LaSalle Academy much about and from Margaret joyed all educational endeavors. She faculty and students turned out during those years. Being from was very adept at academics, and mightily for Jacinta’s send-off at St. the “old school”, she was quite a could also turn her hand to sewing Rose Church. disciplinarian both with the children and crocheting. She designed many Jacinta was also most generous and herself! However, even then beautiful scarves, afghans, and with her time for her brothers and she would display great compas- many other items for her beautiful sisters who lived in the area, caring sion. Often, crying children would family. Sister Gertrude also shared for several of them to their death. be found enveloped in her embrace. her talents with the Heartworks Among her many fi ne skills I often wondered how many of them Shop at Our Lady of Peace Resi- around the convent, Jacinta was saw the tears in her eyes too. dence. known for her delicious apple pies, Sister Margaret was a very Sister Gertrude was a faithful fi delity to prayer time, delight in private person keeping many things prayer and constantly talked of the Obituaries for picking berries and seeing to it that quietly in her heart. She loved need to trust God in all circumstanc- IHM Sisters the daily convent meal was nour- the Congregation, her family, and es. She had a deep and profound may be found on the ishing and hearty. She loved the sports! Oh my, the things that she devotion and trust in the power of Sisters of IHM webpage occasional trip to the casino and taught me about being prayerful, Saint Joseph. “Saint Joseph helps sports – a strong Notre Dame fan to faithful, a loyal friend, a dedicated me to stay calm and trust in Divine the end. professional, and a hard worker! Providence,” she would often say. www.sistersofi hm.org Shine on, Jacinta! How fl exible she was in warmly Gertrude cared deeply for her fam- welcoming my mother to stay with ily. She was a trusted confi dante, us – and to accept not one but two an attentive listener, and a wonder- Spring 2014 Journey page 19

Inspire us In Memoriam with lives of meaning

her wit and wisdom with family and close friends. There was no chance of being bored when in the company of Monica and her family! Monica loved life to its fullest, always ready for a party (especially one she planned!), a Thanksgiving dinner celebration, a card game, or her famous St. Patrick’s Day Irish soda bread-making marathon! She enjoyed a good laugh, even on herself, and valued greatly her many Sister M. St. Monica Costello, IHM friends. Above all, Monica’s priori- Sister M. Jeanne Gallagher, IHM Sister Moira Murray, IHM February 11, 1938 ties always were her prayer rela- September 9, 1926 August 14, 1929 November 5, 2013 tionship with her God and her IHM November 16, 2013 November 24, 2013 by Sister Ellen Maroney, IHM vocation. It was her unflinching by Sister Kathleen K. Kelly, IHM by Sister Michel Keenan, IHM faith in God’s great love for her, I know, that gave her strength even as We give Monica back to You, O Sister Jeanne Gallagher as On November 24, 2013, Sister her illness relentlessly progressed. Lord, who first gave her to us, teacher and administrator touched Moira Murray ended the long jour- She never complained, not once, and as You did not lose her in the the lives of thousands of young ney from Belfast, Ireland to Scran- though the rest of us surely did. giving, so we do not lose her in the men and women. This was evident ton, Pennsylvania in June 1948 to Of all the words I might use to return. when former students kept in touch become an IHM Sister. Sister Moira describe Monica, the one I think with Jeanne over the years. They was one of sixty-four native-born that she would be most proud of When I think about Sister St. would express their gratitude for her Irish Sisters who left Ireland to enter is “teacher.” From her early years Monica Costello, the first thing many kindnesses and encourage- the Scranton IHM Congregation, in the classroom to the twenty that pops into my head is the song, ment to use their many talents to the dating from 1872 to Sister Moira’s plus years as a principal to her last “Maria” from The Sound of Music, best of their abilities. They would entrance in 1948. thirteen years as director of the IHM and in particular the phrase, “. . . frequently invite her to come for Born on August 14, 1928, Sister Educational Enrichment Institute how do you catch a moonbeam in a visit or take her out to dinner to Moira was one of five children, all (EEI) at the IHM Center, Monica your hand?” Monica, or Peggy as thank her. of whom were educated in Catholic was the consummate teacher—she her family lovingly called her, was Jeanne served as principal of schools. It was in these schools that taught by example, not just words. a person who always seemed to St. Bernadine Special Education Moira became acquainted first with She genuinely loved, respected, have twenty or more “projects” (her School in Baltimore, MD. Tears the Sisters of Charity, and later, in and enjoyed each student, child or favorite word) going at the same would come to her eyes when she high school, with the Dominican adult, for the person he or she was. time, and all of them focused on do- would talk about the students. She Sisters. Asked whether she ever There were no limits on her time or ing something for others. She was had such a love for them and their considered entering these con- efforts to provide each one with the a person who lived and breathed special needs. gregations, she promptly replied, individual educational help needed. “loving service” her entire life. She Jeanne was one of the kindest “Never.” It was undoubtedly the Monica always saw the potential in never tired of reaching out to others Sisters that I ever lived with. When influence of her mother’s sister, her students, and focused on help- – except at night, when she would it was someone’s Jubilee, Feast Sister Ann Patricia Elmore, who ing them to recognize and develop it settle in her big easy chair, ready to Day or special celebration, Jeanne had entered the IHM Congregation in themselves. She relished tak- watch the evening news, and imme- would always make sure that it was in 1927 with four other Irish young ing on the most difficult cases, and diately fall fast asleep (though she a true IHM celebration. She always ladies, that Moira had come to know was happier than any Olympic gold claimed it was only a little “snoo- gave a warm welcome to our many the IHM Congregation. The peri- medal winner when one of these zette”)! visitors at St. Clare’s. She truly had odic visits of these Sisters to Ireland students showed improvement. I Monica was born in Brooklyn, IHM hospitality. kept that connection alive. think Monica was such a wonder- NY, and remained proud of that fact Above all, Jeanne loved life. She Professed as an IHM Sister on ful teacher and mentor because she her entire life. Her parents, Michael always looked forward to visiting May 8, 1951, she was known as cared and showed it. I think all of and Mary, taught Monica, her sister, her brother, Johnny, and her sister- Sister Mary Owen. She loved teach- us are better persons because of the Mary, and her two brothers, Andy in-law, Mary in New Jersey. Her ing, and it was well-known that the countless lessons Monica taught us and Billy, the values of a strong trips to Texas were always high on children were fascinated with her every day. faith grounded in prayer, family, her list when she would travel to see Irish brogue and often imitated it. So now we truly do call her “St.” and service to others. These prin- her nephew, niece and grandniece, She served as elementary teacher Monica, as she enjoys God’s eternal ciples were life-long hallmarks of Katie. at St. Agnes Elementary School, loving embrace and we rejoice in Monica’s life. She deeply loved her When she moved to Our Lady Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, Brook- thanksgiving for the many ways she family and reveled in telling about of Peace Residence she brought her lyn, New York, Mount Holly, New shared her great zest for life with us. the latest adventures of her nieces, joyful, loving spirit with her. May Jersey, and St. Paul’s, Scranton, nephew, grandnieces and grand- she enjoy God’s light, love and Pennsylvania. Her favorite mission nephews. She looked forward to the presence. was Dundalk, Maryland, reminis- special holiday and summer vaca- tion times when she would share continued on page 20 page 20 Journey Spring 2014

Walk closely by our side In Memoriam until that day when we shall meet again continued from page 19 that she did. Sal had a fine mind and tions as well as crafts to be sold at with that came suffering. She was our gift shop, Heartworks. Outside cent of a town near Belfast, Ireland, very sentimental. She was moved by of religious-themed pictures, Pat called Dundock. beauty in all its forms and she shed loved to draw dogs. I think she drew May Sister Moira rest in peace, tears easily. She knew the power of every dog in existence. This love, and may the pioneer spirit of our words and she expressed her feel- especially of kittens and puppies, native Irish Sisters be alive in new ings often in writing. One of Sal’s spilled over to the TV channel “Ani- IHM vocations. favorite quotes: “I should keep my mal Planet,” Pat’s favorite channel, words soft and sweet in case I have and to her favorite programs, “Cats to eat them.” She hand-scripted 101” and ‘Dogs 101”. One of the this quote on a card she gave to me crafts that she derived pleasure when I moved to Our Lady of Peace from fashioning was the wreaths, Residence. especially Christmas wreaths, and Sister M. Francella Shaughnessy, IHM My friendship with Sal goes they were truly beautiful. Pat also February 26, 1920 back to 1951 at the Motherhouse. dabbled in jewelry-making during January 14, 2014 I was teaching music in the Mary- these years. by Sister Jane Snyder, IHM wood Seminary High School and Patricia was the youngest of ten was asked to create a choral group. children, 7 boys and 3 girls. In her “Life’s surprises are seedlings The postulants and novices “tried drawings of Saint Joseph, she often emerging through the concrete of out.” Sal was a natural alto who used as her model a picture of her our expectations and plans.” had a love for music. I could sing brother William, who was killed I read this line in a meditation I was two lines and Sal could sing them during WWII. Jim, another brother, reading the day after Sister Fran- Sister M. Salvator Cramer, IHM back. The name of that first group was also artistic, but Pat always said cella died. I could not get over how September 15, 1932 was “The Queen’s Daughters.” This that Jim drew better than she did. relevant that thought was to the final December 11, 2013 experience drew us all together and Maybe, yes; maybe, no. chapter of Francella’s rich life. She by Sister Louise Connolly, IHM we all got to know each other better My friendship with Pat goes would be the first one to tell you through our rehearsals. This was our back to the 1960s when we were that six and a half years ago, as she In my sitting room hangs a bond. both stationed at Saint Leo’s in Ash- busied herself preparing for another poem framed in rich dark wood and Sal rests now in the loving arms ley. All through the years since, she day, one of “life’s surprises” – a printed on exquisitely handmade of God. I am ever grateful for her has remained a faithful friend to me. stroke - turned her life on a dime paper with pressed flowers and presence in my life. Each time I We both weathered many ups and from being self-sufficient to being ferns. A glance at that poem reminds glance at that poem, I remember Sal downs of life but managed to help almost totally dependent on the me instantly of my dear friend, Sal. and I am reminded to take time to each other through them. As Pat care of others. The framed piece was purchased by love and be loved, for it is, indeed, a was becoming more ill and just one From her life as a child in a Sal at the Vallis Clausa Paper Mill grace from God. Rest in peace, my month before she died, I found on family with two brothers and four on the Sorgue in Provence, France, friend. the cushion of my chair a half-sheet sisters who lived in her mother’s during a trip we made together. of paper upon which was printed an family home with their parents Translated from French, it reads: Arabian proverb: and three maiden aunts, I suspect she learned the give-and-take of Prenez le Temps (Take Time) A friend is one to whom One may life along with the strong faith that Take the time to play; pour out All the contents of one’s hallmarked her entire life. She was it is a secret of eternal youth. heart, never much for drama which was Take the time to read; Chaff and grain together, probably why so many whose lives it is the source of wisdom. Knowing that the gentlest of hands interfaced with hers found her to be Take the time to love and to be Will take and sift it, even-tempered, open, and, gener- loved; Keep what is worth keeping and ally, easy to deal with. (Some of it is a grace from God. With the breath of kindness, us who experienced Francella as Take the time to make friends; Blow the rest away. director of junior professed sisters it is the voice of happiness. may have a slightly different take on Take the time to laugh; Sister Patricia Woll, IHM At the bottom in scratchy writing this.) it is the music of the soul. November 26, 1931 were the words, “Love, Pat.” Through all that confronted her, Take the time to think; December 28, 2013 Francella never lost the twinkle in it is the source of action. by Sister Jean Conaty, IHM her eye and quick wit that brought Take the time to give; laughter and joy until the very end. life is too short to be selfish. Anyone who knew Sister Patricia Her most frequently asked question: Take the time to work; Woll knew one thing about her; she “What’s up in the Congregation?” it is the price of success. was creative. From her days in the What a love affair she had with all Marian Convent Art Studio to her things IHM – second only to the Although Sal didn’t write this coming to Our lady of Peace as a love affair she had with the God poem, it expresses her lifelong resident, she turned out many beau- desire to live life to its fullest. And tiful works of art for IHM publica- continued on page 21 Spring 2014 Journey page 21 In Memoriam continued from page 20 Words of Wisdo who soothed her concerns and gave enjoyed visiting the shrines of To keep balance... of my being is in union with the her great peace of mind. Our Blessed Lady at Lourdes, every once in Divine within. I am writing this on February 26, Fatima, Knock, and Medjugor- awhile I go to a Janet Yurkanin, IHM her 94th birthday. The concrete of je. She also traveled to a num- certain spot, buy her expectations and plans has gone ber of the European countries. a Cappuccino and to dust. Oh, but the fi delity of the Through the kindness of her just sit and enjoy Trying to be in life of Sister Francella that sustained niece, Dr. Pat in New York, she the ocean breeze. “right relation- that seedling – that will bless all of enjoyed a number of Broadway Jeanne Marie ship” with God, us long into eternity. shows and operas. She also had Kearney, IHM myself and others many vacations in California helps to keep me with her sister Mary and her balanced even family. “When my father when the world During her years of teach- died my Mother around me is out ing she taught elementary, high went from of balance! school and college. At Mary- detective stories Maria Regina Loures, IHM wood University she spent 22 to Harlequin ro- years both teaching and serving mances; now that in various offi ce positions. Then I’m retired, I’ve Prayer, work & she was called to home min- switched back to play. istry when her sister Margaret mysteries to balance the excitement/ Theresa needed her. After Margaret’s lack of excitement in my own life.” Bonanza, IHM death she was assigned to the Patricia Walsh, IHM IHM Center. Because of her de- Sister Teresa M. O’Malley, IHM votion to the Blessed Sacrament May 8, 1928 she volunteered to be sacristan I have main- For me the key January 30, 2014 for the third fl oor Chapel. When tained balance in is to spend time by Sister Annellen Kelly, IHM assigned to OLP she again my busy life by daily in contem- and Sister Pauline Kelly, IHM volunteered her service for the recognizing my plative prayer Chapel on the fourth fl oor. Both daily high and with morning We fi rst met Teresa on Septem- Chapels were beautifully kept low energy peaks, being the best ber 8, 1951. She was truly an Irish and decorated with the same working at more period of the day. beauty with her white Irish skin and perfection with which she did diffi cult tasks at Mary Ann Lang, IHM wavy red hair. Most of us had just all things. peak energy times and resting from graduated from high school and When you entered her room work in the late afternoon when my were seventeen or eighteen years you would have no doubt about energy wanes. I pray periodically I try to main- old. Teresa, on the other hand, had her devotion to the angels be- throughout the day, am not averse tain balance by completed Business College and cause of the many statues deco- to drinking a high-energy B-12 making sure I had been employed for fi ve years as rating her room. As she was Zip-fi zz when I need it, and I get a have quiet time a secretary to a bank executive. waiting to meet our dear Lord, regular 7-hours sleep a night. alone each day. Teresa was a very private person, she gave her caregivers the an- Loretta Mulry, IHM My alone time but seemed to fi t right in with the gels they admired. We have no includes prayer, other postulants. It was obvious to doubt that now she is with our walking Moss all of us she was a very prayerful Lord and the Angels. We quote Prayer is the only (our Shalom Community dog), and person and spent much time be- from the plaque hanging above thing that keeps also creating art—often in the print- fore the Blessed Sacrament. Later her seat in the chapel at Our me balanced; my making studio at Marywood. on, she told us that each day when Lady of Peace Residence: For- connection to Fran Fasolka, IHM she returned home from work she ever with the angels—always in God, my source always stopped at the Polish Church our hearts! of life, gives next to her home in Avoca. She re- purpose to every- As a hospice ally felt that she received her voca- thing I do. social worker, tion while visiting Our Lord in the John Michele Southwick, IHM Blessed Sacrament at that Church. keeping balanced Once she decided to become an is a survival skill. I pray with those IHM sister she never looked back. The fulcrum, the of like mind; I eat Teresa dearly loved her parents anchor, of my day meals with sisters and two sisters. When they needed is the time I spend I live with or her help she was right there to care each morning the hospice team; and I try to walk for them. After her parents’ deaths in prayer during every evening and breathe deeply of she was free to travel. She really which the essence nature. Jo Ann Trama, IHM page 22 Journey Spring 2014

Words of Wisdo by Sisters o of IHM Finding Balanc

“A positive Having prayer times for us were sacred, since we and leg exercises. Going “birding” outlook, fi nding and quiet time all lived alone, yet loved commu- is a hobby. My tastes in music range joy in what I do, and planning fun nity. Although we traveled I would from Charlie Pride’s western vari- viewing tasks as events. return home refreshed and fi lled ety, to serious classical music which part of something Francis Rose with more enthusiasm and new I grew up with, as my sister was a greater, being Lapitino, IHM ideas for the days or weeks ahead. musician. Good conversations with fi rm in the value After big church liturgies and busy others also brings balance to my 90- of Rootedness in seasons I connect with another sister years of life! God, rolling up my sleeves to get a As a really strong or two and take extended time off Michel Keenan, IHM job done, preparing a meal- better introvert, who to recharge. We go to the ocean or yet a party, knowing how to relax, spends lots of the mountains and to experience the not taking myself too seriously, energy in min- beauty of nature and have plain fun. Making sure I crossing off the to-do list, enjoying istry each day, I In recent years our gatherings have get together with time with family and friends and fi nd quiet time to been less frequent but still, I take friends for a nice loving life.” be important for that time once a week and rest with time together, Maryalice Jacquinot, IHM balance. a nap, a good book, an old movie sharing food and Jane Connolly, IHM or a meal with a friend. I feel that good conversa- I should be as dedicated to “whole- tion. “I fi nd pockets of ness” as I am to being” rooted in Catherine Sitja y solitude during A “balancing God.” After all, even God took a Balbastro, IHM the day which act” especially day off after a busy week of work. allow me to be in the midst of a God deserved it and so do I. totally with Him!” whirlwind might Mare Carol Loughney, IHM During the day Anne Mary Smith, include small ges- I look out the IHM tures like going nearest window, from one foot to I try to main- take a few deep the other: taking tain balance by breaths, and I usually go deep a walk, calling a friend, breathing remembering that enjoy the calm- “within”. I try to a Julian mantra, “all shall be well,” I do not have to ing view; in the see the “situa- taking in the beauty of art and na- be responsible evening I watch a tion” from God’s ture, listening to music, sitting and for everything few clips from wimp.com : ) point of view and staring at water, all “freefall into that comes my Frances E. Russell, IHM make effort to Divine Radiance.” way. So I pause, adjust my pace. Jean Louise Bachetti, IHM call upon the Holy Spirit to show Michael Marie me what to do, breathe and try to be To maintain bal- Hartman, IHM faithful. ance I need quiet Prayer and/or a Beatrice Caulson, IHM time alone and I call to a friend. enjoy walking. When I need bal- Dora Vizcarra, Elizabeth McE- ance in my life, I IHM I breathe in God’s neaney, IHM go to God in His unconditional Creation: plant love, peace and fl owers, listen to presence that God bird songs, watch wants to give me Starting each day squirrels play, sit To maintain bal- right now in the with Liturgy and in silent contem- ance I guard my present moment. prayer, and not plation. time away from “All will be well.” taking myself Joan Ottman, IHM work and ministry A deep breath and receive the love. too seriously: through prayer, The present moment is committed these help me to work, reading to the “Presence.” maintain balance Spend an estab- or just not do- Marie Estelle Gavel, IHM in my life. lished set of time ing anything. For Elizabeth Mary Wallace, IHM on the computer, years Sisters Margaret Gallagher, even if it is a Betty Bullen, Kieran Williams and Interspersed with game or some I have claimed Friday as our day prayer and work I fi ll each day with prayer, creativ- research project, off. Many times we would travel in my day, there ity, some activity that makes me and stop when as much as one and one half hours is always music, happy/healthy, some way that I can my time is up. to meet for lunch and sometimes reading, cross- BE for someone else. Many times, Patricia Fedele, IHM shopping or the movies. These word puzzles, Spring 2014 Journey page 23

Words of Wisdo by Sisters o of IHM Finding Balanc the list that I To maintain Balance for me I’d like to be prioritize is done balance I often is when I have to more profound, in reverse order or turn the source call a halt to the but the fact is, maybe not at all. of stress over to merry-go-round that getting I know that the the Lord, keep I am on, get off, enough sleep ev- following might in touch with take a breath, ery day is central seem haphaz- friends and fam- have some fun to my balance. ard but... When ily who love me and share some Maria Rose I wake in the morning, I ask God for who I am, and am learning to time with a good friend. Kelly, IHM what I am to do that day: Prayer: say no once a day. Sandra Grieco, IHM When do You want me to meet with Roberta Mary Harding, IHM You for our daily hour together? My quiet prayer (Our “date” is different every day To maintain bal- time early in the and I love the spontaneity!) Min- I maintain bal- ance in my life-- morning helps istry: Who do You want me to be, ance in my life by As often as I can me maintain the what do You want me to do today exercising daily— a walk in a nearby balance I need for others? (prepare a conference, biking or walking park helps me to keep focused give spiritual direction, visit, send are my favorites. relax and appreci- on the spiritual an email/card/call, surprise them)? Kelly Ann Quinn, ate the amazing dimension of my Health: What do you want me to IHM goodness and life and ministry. do that will make me/You happy? generosity of God. Ann Parker, IHM (make time to read something that Marianne Knight, IHM “feeds my mind and soul, listen to Balance is a music, take a walk, exercise, be still graced approach I am having mul- and listen, create something beauti- to life that helps I remain faith- tiple back and rib ful)? Community: How can I be Je- one to prioritize ful to quiet, pain so I get my sus today for the sisters with whom what’s most contemplative balance from my I live? (be understanding, grateful, important in your time daily which walker. thoughtful, serving, patient, non- day. helps focus and Barbara judgmental, loving) ? This is what I Redempta balance my day DuMont, IHM do each morning and I believe that Sweeney, IHM as well as taking my joy comes from listening to God time to laugh, and being ready to be and do what breathe and take walk breaks. I try I have learned to God wants. When in a frenzy to attend talks or retreat day/eve turn off my com- Cor Immaculatum Heffernan, IHM of activity I focus events that I know will feed my soul puter and pick up on a paraphrase and I play with zentangle, Mandalas my crochet hook. from a T.S. Eliot and collage art. Kathleen Burns, Balance has poem: “Teach me Minnette Welding, IHM IHM always been like to care and not to chasing a rain- care. Teach me bow for me. Bal- to sit still.” Calm I pray early; I Plenty of prayer, ance is fl exibility, and balance return. work midday; I solitude and prayer, faith in Ann Barbara DeSiano, IHM play late. physical rest so God, and the Margaret when I go to belief that today Gannon, IHM God’s people I am just where I am supposed to If it hasn’t helped I am centered, be in the journey of life. Ad multos me maintain focused, prepared annos. balance it has at to be the best I Anitra Nemotko, IHM least helped me can be with and for them. maintain san- I fi nd balance by Paula Gallagher, IHM ity... I have a few spending time people in my life walking outdoors who can really or doing yard make me laugh and I try to connect work. with them...frequently! Grace Surdovel, Rachel Terry, IHM IHM page 24 Journey Spring 2014 Balance Congregation of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Scranton, Pennsylvania of the Sisters, Servants Immaculate Heart Mary, Congregation PAID Non-Profit U.S. Postage Scranton, PA Organization Permit No. 39 councilor for temporal resources. councilor for temporal resources. IHM Leadership Team Elected IHM Leadership Team Journey IHM Center Avenue Adams 2300 18509-1598 Scranton, PA The Sisters of IHM conducted their Chapter of Elections, April 5 and 6. The The Sisters of IHM conducted their Chapter Elections, and community life; Sister Ellen Maroney, president; and Sister Ellen Carney, and Sister Ellen Carney, president; and community life; Sister Ellen Maroney, membership called to leadership (L-R) Sisters Jean Louise Bachetti, councilor for spiritual development; Sister Rosemary Goulet, councilor missioning and community life; Sister Kathryn Clauss, vice-president and councilor for missioning community life; Sister Kathryn Clauss, vice-president