JourneysJourneysSisters of St. Casimir Vol. XXXIV No. 2 Fall 2020

Sisters of Casimir 2020 Jubilarian Sister Margaret Zalot celebrates her Golden (50 year) Jubilee. From left, Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius, Sister Immacula Wendt, Sister Margaret Zalot and Sister Regina Dubickas in front of the altar at St. Casimir Center.

by Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius the States and celebrate with us in 2021. Jubilee Day holds memories of promises made Meanwhile, in , Sister Margaret Zalot, and faithfully lived out day after day and year after year, ready to begin the celebration of her 50th anniversary as a individually and as a Congregation. It is a day of celebration Sister of St. Casimir, began the day in the St. Casimir chapel that, like everything this year, has been affected by the with morning prayer for the Solemnity of the Assumption, pandemic, not diminishing the joy, but altering our manner which concluded after Sister Margaret presented flowers to of celebration. Mary and renewed her vows that were accepted by Sister Sister Joyce Ann Dopkin and Sister Nilda Varanauskas Regina in the presence of Sisters Immacula Wendt, Dolo- remained in Avellanda, Argentina, and celebrated their rine Lopez, and Margaret McTaggart. All enjoyed a jubilee 60 years, Diamond Jubilee, with Sister Asuncion Costantini. breakfast afterwards. They were greeted with a breakfast basket from the fac- St. Rita Shrine Chapel was the site of the Eucharistic ulty at the parish school, where Sister Nilda had been the Celebration of Sister Margaret Zalot’s Golden Jubilee. Af- principal and the Sisters had been involved in ministry for ter all the planning and re-planning, Sister Margaret and many years. the Sisters arrived early to be greeted with a power outage Sister Asuncion prepared a delicious dinner for on a really hot, humid, August 15. This meant that there the Sisters in Avellaneda. Sisters, Associates and friends of would be no organ, no microphone, no lights and no air Sister Joyce and Sister Nilda added to the joy of Jubilee conditioning if the power wasn’t restored. day. Hopefully, it will be safe for our Sisters to come to So, of course, prayers for power began and Mass continued on page 5 A Message from Sister Regina Dear friends, • I think we have grown in awareness of how dependent we It is with joy that we celebrated the are on others and express our gratitude to them. Golden Jubilee of Sister Margaret • I don’t like wearing the mask and I know that there are a Zalot on August 15. Our Diamond number of people who refuse to wear it for various reasons. (60 year) Jubilarians, Sister Joyce Ann One day I saw someone with a sign that said, “I’m wearing Dopkin and Sister Nilda Varanauskas, this for you.” celebrated in Argentina. The story of • People are thinking more of others and reaching out to that beautiful and memorable day for assist them. At our parish there is a group of people who\ volunteer to shop for those who are elderly and cannot do our three Sisters is found in this issue of Journeys. We rejoice it for themselves. with Sisters Margaret, Joyce Ann, and Nilda and celebrate We have become much more aware of how inter- their lives of faithful service and response to the needs of connected we are with one another throughout the world, our time. May God continue to bless them with an ever- and how decisions that are made in one part of the world af- deeper spirit of faith, hope, and love. fect the rest of the world. May it lead us to work on the issues What a powerful moment in our history —so many that affect all of us: justice, poverty, hunger, peace, climate things happening that are finding their way deep into our change, and care for the world we leave for our children. being. And what a powerful opportunity for transformation In the midst of the pandemic and how it was chang- in so many areas of our life. ing our lives arose the voices of many across our nation bring- During the months of “sheltering in place” because ing to our awareness the sin of racism, calling us to deep re- of the pandemic, we found ways to connect with one another flection on our history, the biases we hold in our hearts toward through the gift of technology. The Leadership Conference of those who are different from us, the need to pray and act in Women Religious provided us with weekly reflections on the such a way that we bring about a world in which people see meaning and the blessing of the time we are living in, using each other as sisters and brothers, sharing a common home. poetry, song, readings from Scripture, and questions for sharing. We had a wonderful opportunity to educate ourselves a little We arranged weekly gatherings on Zoom to share these more about how we got to this point in our history through reflections with one another. How wonderful that we could an assembly with our IHM Sisters in Scranton, who asked connect from all over the country with our Sisters, Associates, Sharon Durham to walk us through the history and under- and friends, and even with our Sisters in Argentina. So many standing of the deeper meaning of the many voices calling for commented that they looked forward to these weekly meetings change. and found them helpful and supportive for their lives. Recently I saw a photo of someone holding a sign The questions that kept emerging in our reflections were that read, “There is only one race – the human race!” We have – What are we learning from all this? What are we becoming it within us to be better than we act, many times unaware, to through all this? What is the blessing? I would like to share with truly make the world our common home. Our faith and our you some of the learnings: love for one another enables us to do this. • I came to know how fragile our life is and how we must I find these words of Albert Camus appropriate to re- appreciate each day. • I realize more and more that there are things I can control mind us of the strength we all have within us: “In the midst of and so much that I am not in control of and need to place winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer.” my trust in God and in others. In the midst of the “winter” we are experiencing through the • I think we have all become more aware of and responsive pandemic and the voices calling to be heard, we must draw to each other’s needs and are kinder to one another. on “the invincible summer” within us, those inner resources • I find myself thanking people who risk their lives and come of faith and hope, the graces God gives us. We can make the to work in order to attend to our health care, safety issues, world a better, holier place. food on our tables, and so many others who provide for Happy Thanksgiving, a blessed Advent and a joyful our needs. I try to thank them for their service. And I have Christmas. heard of so many who have expressed their gratitude to those who serve our needs by treating them to a meal or a special treat. Signs appear at various places, “Heroes work here!” Sister Regina Dubickas General Superior Sisters of St. Casimir

2 Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 w w w.sistersofstcasimir.org Jubilarian Reflections Sister Joyce Ann Dopkin Sister Nilda Varanauskas 60 Years 60 Years Jubilee Day! Not the I am Sister Nilda. I kind of celebration we were entered the community in Ar- looking forward to. The pan- gentina right after finishing my demic left its mark on this studies to be a teacher. God has as it did on so many other been very good to me during all things. But with all, or many, these years and has guided all my of the extra frills removed, ways, helping me take care of all we stood before what was the things He put in my way. really important: Rejoicing Being an only child, I never in God´s faithfulness and felt alone because Jesus and love over these 60 years of joys, sorrows, achievements, the Sisters in the community were always close to me. failures, encounters, and losses. This year, because of the pandemic, I was not We began the celebration sharing a surprise break- able to go to the for the celebration fast tray that the leadership of Our Lady Mercy School of my Jubilee, but I am very grateful for everything had sent to us. This school was home to us for many the Sisters did to make this a very special occasion. years, and we always rejoice in seeing the “seeds grow.” Sister Asunción had decorated the chapel fittingly for a jubilee celebration. But because of the pandemic, there were no fresh flowers until associate Fabian appeared with a bouquet in his hands. We attempted to (virtually) join Sister Margaret Zalot at St. Rita's Chapel, succeeding about commu- nion time. We did enjoy her reflection and identified with many of her thoughts and feelings. Being that August 15 is the patronal feast of the diocese, I went with one of the associates to participate in the “Car Procession“ in honor of our Blessed Mother and then returned for a virtual Mass transmitted from the Cathedral. Many phone calls and messages flowed throughout the day to prove that love is stronger than the COVID- 19 virus, and we did have a happy Jubilee.

Sister Joyce Ann Dopkin, above on the left, and Sister Nilda Varanauskas in their chapel on Jubilee Day. Photo on left: Sisters Joyce Ann Dopkin and Nilda Varanauskas enjoy the breakfast surprise prepared for them by the Madre de la Misericordia leadership in Avellaneda, Argentina. God Bless All Our Jubilarians w w w. sistersofstcasimir .org Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 3 Jubilarian Reflections

Sister Margaret Zalot It was more than a glimmer of gold – it was a golden 50 Years treasure that I felt in my heart. As I said those words, a glimmer of gold I was overcome with the emotion of the moment and breaking through the dark chapel God’s infinite love for me through my Sisters; all those bringing light to all whom I had taught over the years; all those whose lives had been touched by mine; those who were gathered that a glimmer of gold day in the chapel; and, through the wonders of technol- reminding me of much more ogy, with family and friends throughout our country as love in abundance well as Argentina and . My family, friends, and so many others were partici- a glimmer of gold pating in the Mass, many through livestream video. All God’s abundant love for me could see the liturgy in the chapel and somehow wanted in all that happens me to see them. And, to me, it seemed as though I could see them. I knew they were with me. My youngest niece Yes, there was “a glimmer of gold” in all that was hap- in tried to take a screen shot of me after the pening during the August 15 jubilee celebration of my 50th Mass and was disappointed that I would not look at her! anniversary as a Sister of St. Casimir in the St. Rita Shrine I recalled the words on my remembrance card from Chapel. It was not what we had been planning since our first St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians: “Glory be to God whose Zoom meeting with our 60th anniversary jubilarians, Sisters power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can Jubilarian Sister Margaret Zalot processing into St. Rita's Chapel on August 15, 2020. Joyce Ann Dopkin and Nilda Varanauskas, in late February. ask or imagine.” I had used those same words on the But it was what it was meant to be, and God was in the cover of my liturgy booklet for my final profession of chapel in our midst despite the challenges surrounding us. vows forty-five years ago. I had just begun my journey as There would be no jubilee luncheon after the Mass. Sisters a Sister of St. Casimir, and God’s work through me was Joyce and Nilda could not travel from Argentina because of only beginning. travel restrictions, and then, discovering upon our arrival at God had much more work to do, and God has been St. Rita’s, there was no power – a small brush fire had cut the doing it ever since. These words continue to be words power from nearby electric lines. of FAITH. The FAITH God has in me and each of us We were assured that power would be restored shortly. to go beyond where we are to where we are called to be. The utility (electric) company was busy at work on the downed The FAITH God continues to have in me despite my power lines. But not in time for a planned 10:00 a.m. Mass. limitations. My own FAITH in the God who loves me, We could not start later than 10:30. So, at 10:30 a.m., we no matter what. The FAITH I am challenged to have in just forged ahead – without power, lights, or air conditioning. myself and in others. We used our best outside voices, used the piano instead of an God is so good. God has worked through me all organ, and prayed and sang on cue. through the years and continues to do so, and I am so Somehow, as I renewed my vows, and thanked God for very grateful. God has the power to do more than I calling me to follow Jesus as a Sister of St. Casimir, and prom- could ever imagine. ised to live my vows in the spirit of Mother Maria and in I cannot but help hear again all in the chapel, and service to the Church in all the circumstances of my life, I in their own homes singing the Celtic Alleluia after my knew that God was with me, in me, and all around me and vows were accepted in the chapel that day. And, so, I had been all my life. sing it once again with you: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Sisters gather after the Jubilee Mass at St. Rita's to congratulate Sister Margaret Zalot. Front row, from left, Sr. Theresa Dabulis, Sr. Dolorine Lopez, Sr. Margaret Zalot, Sr. Margaret McTaggart, Sr. Lawrence Puishys, Sr. Sylvia Puchoras, Sr. Rose Nakibuuka, IHMR and Sr. Julie Weckwerth, CSSF. Second row, left, Sr. Mary Louise Andrulonis, Sr. Immacula Wendt, Sr. Elizabeth Ann Yocius, Sr. Margaret Petcavage, Sr. Rita Marie Kerdock, Sr. Theresa Papsis, Sr. Deborah Romanuski, and Sr. Kim Mis, CSSF.

4 Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 w w w.sistersofstcasimir.org Jubilee Memories

Jubilarian Sister Margaret Zalot processing into St. Rita's Chapel on August 15, 2020. continued from cover story This was the first time many Following the liturgy, a socially-dis- was delayed until 10:30 a.m. Richard present saw flour, yeast, and water tant receiving line provided a space Sokas played the piano and Gia Sokas combined and kneaded into a ball of for guests to greet Sister Margaret in sang loudly, undiminshed by the lack of dough in a chapel! Father Ray pre- the lobby. power. Sister Margaret Zalot processed sented Sister Margaret with a loaf Although the luncheon at the in to our traditional hymn, “Come Thou of bread that he had baked prior to Palos Country Club was cancelled, and Chosen.” Jubilee Day. After the prayer/song the SSC Community celebration had to Father Tony Pizzo, OSA, was to the Holy Spirit, Sister Margaret be postponed, the Marquette Park SSC the main celebrant, Father Ray Flores, renewed the vows she had made 50 Community (Motherhouse and Nativi- OSA, and Father Jaunius Kelpsas years ago. ty) shared an evening Jubilee Banquet at concelebrated and Father Ray gave a God heard our prayers for 2601 West Marquette Road, complete creative homily based on the format the restoration of power after the first with homemade shrimp cocktail, indi- of a recipe for making bread, relating petition when the lights went on, air vidual orders from Longhorn restaurant, it to teaching and life. came back, and the organ worked. and homemade angel food cake with strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream. Dinner was served by courses in the council meeting room that had been transformed into an elegant ban- quet room by Sister Immacula. Sister Regina even led Sister Margaret into the room with our traditional Jubilee March. The three-hour, Jubilee Banquet was the longest in the history of our Community! On August 19, Sisters Regina, Immacula, Elizabeth Ann, and Marga- ret Zalot participated in a Zoom (vir- tual) Jubilee Prayer Service with Sisters Joyce, Nilda and Asuncion in Argen- tina. Sister Joyce and Sister Nilda re- newed their vows and received a Jubilee Blessing. Good conversation followed and, thanks to technology, the miles be- tween us couldn’t diminish Jubilee Joy! Father Tony Pizzo, OSA, congratulates a jubilant Sr. Margaret Zalot after renewal of her vows.

w w w. sistersofstcasimir .org Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 5 'I Will Not Be Stingy with God' -Venerable Mother Maria Kaupas

by Sister Immacula Wendt Unusual Times: Legacy of SSCs Continues Mother Maria’s generosity on Saturdays and Sundays. and legacy continue… In 1941, Mother Maria’s hope During the influenza epidemic and dream was fulfilled when Sisters of 1918, Mother Maria called her ventured off to begin our ministry daughters to go out to help the peo- in Argentina. The Sisters were never ple who needed them: “Today, I give stingy. Wherever there was a need you permission and my blessing on or whatever would make a difference your work of mercy. Truly, these are in the lives of the people, the Sisters unusual times! were there with their love, support, and dedication, amidst hardships and tears, too. Countless other stories re- main unheralded but imbued with Mother Maria’s words, “Always more, always better, always with love.” When there were one-parent fami- St. Elizabeth of Hungary lies with small children, the Sisters Artwork by Sister Mercedes arranged for them to stay in a class- room during schooltime, or the Sis- ters became house-mothers in the con- vent while the parent went to work. Clothes, uniforms, schoolbooks, food, furniture, and household supplies Venerable Mother Maria Kaupas were collected and given to families who had been devasted by fire, death, "I ask that especially those or need. This also included helping who will not go to nurse the sick and newly arrived immigrants find and with school not in session, to at least set up homes or taking the children pray more for themselves, and that into their schools. God would protect all the Sisters, One can’t forget money col- and for the suffering, that they may lected or raised for those who are receive the necessary help” poor and in need, for Catholic Relief (Excerpt from a Mother Maria letter Services, for purchasing food for the of October 16, 1918). St. Casimir Motherhouse food pantry from the Orphan children from the Artwork by Sister Mercedes Greater Chicago Food Depository, flu epidemic were cared for by two poor, as shown by their lives of vis- for the Make-a-Wish Foundation, Sisters of St. Casimir at the St. Casi- iting the sick, serving them in their for financial assistance for students in mir Parish in Philadelphia. Our Sis- needs, and their generous giving of need, and for so much more. Schools ters were the heroes, they were the alms. and individual classrooms had bake Sisters of mercy, who gave witness in History demonstrates that sales, raffle ticket sales, walk-a-thons, so many ways to God’s love amidst the Sisters of St. Casimir have faith- and charity day events for raising the pain, suffering, and dying that fully lived out our call to make a dif- money for others. Whenever there plagued the country. ference in peoples’ lives, especially was a need, a way was found to go St. Casimir and St. Elizabeth those most in need. Walking in the that extra mile! of Hungary, our two patron , footsteps of Mother Maria, we set In 1963, the Second Vatican both defenders of the poor, have out to teach in the Home Missions Council, called by St. John been the models for the Sisters of St. in in 1937. Not being XXIII, opened new ways to not be Casimir to go the distance through- satisfied just to teach in the schools, stingy with God. Sisters became in- out all these 113 years. our zeal to spread the Gospel message volved: teaching English as a second Both saints of royal birth had great led us to many hours of missionary language, tutoring adults and chil- love for their neighbor, especially the work in the surrounding small towns dren, RCIA, social work with abused

6 Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 w w w.sistersofstcasimir.org 'I Will Not Be Stingy with God' Unusual Times: Legacy of SSCs Continues children, pastoral care, visiting the they also saw the need to continue to In 1994, our chaplain at the sick and homebound, prison minis- live out “always more, always better, Motherhouse, Rev. McCormick, try, and free clinics. The Sisters and always with love” in their retirement OSA, spurred us Sisters to again go students at Villa Joseph Marie High as they began to use their presence, that extra mile when he asked us School in Pennsylvania heard the cry power, and influence in working to- how we were continuing to work for and for years prepared sandwiches for ward improving the quality of life the poor as St. Elizabeth had done. a homeless shelter in Philadelphia. in our neighborhoods. We joined Without even a clue as to the what, This also was the time when the Sis- SWOP, the Southwest Organizing how, where, we moved forward to ters branched out to become more Project, taking part in prayer actions open a food pantry. “Build it and involved in the social mission of the and meetings regarding safety issues they will come” became our cry. And Church. in our neighborhoods, violence in for 20 plus years, this small but so- It also was the time when society, the cause of the uninsured, needed St. Elizabeth Food Pantry many of our Sisters began to retire women and children issues, and re- provided food for thousands of people from their full-time ministries. But spect for diversity. who came in their time of need. In 2020, our lives have been hit by another pandemic. It has brought sickness and dying, fear and uncertain- ty, loss of jobs, hunger, homelessness, and hopelessness in our lives and in the lives of so many. Today, two of our Sisters are 100; half of our 39 members are 83 or older. The Sisters living at Fran- ciscan Village are, and have been, in lock-down for these past eight months. We hear the cry of all those suffering in so many ways. And we continue to hear the words, so deeply embedded in our hearts "I will not be stingy with God." We ask ourselves: What is God asking of us? What can I still do? Sister Mary Louise Andrulonis with Maria High School students who were volunteering in It is with deep faith, trust, the pantry in the early 2000s. and love that we have deepened and intensified our commitment to being powerhouses of prayer and being that presence to others in new ways. With the donning of masks and keeping social distances, there is shopping being done for others, cheery notes being sent, wellness calls being made, giving a wave to one another, throw- ing a kiss, giving a helping hand to someone who needs laundry done, a

Part of the original crew of Sisters who formed the St. Elizabeth Food Pantry at the Mother- house of the Sisters of St. Casimir. From left: Sister Andreata Naudziunas, Sister Grace Ann Kalafut, Sister Mary de Sales, Sister Lourda Paulauskas, Sister Immacula Wendt, and Sister Margaret Zalot. Maria High School Campus Minister Judy Bumbul is the second from the right. w w w. sistersofstcasimir .org Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 7 'I Will Not Be Stingy with God' Unusual Times: Legacy of SSCs Continues

Sisters celebrate Sister Concetta's 100 birthday - social distancing and visiting through a window. Sister Concetta is behind the window, far left. bed to be changed. The few of us Sisters still needs of Catholic Charities, Sinai Health living in Chicago have gone to the Village System, SWOP, IMAN, Archdiocese of bringing treats and visiting with our Sisters Chicago COVID-19 Relief Fund, and in Assisted Living outside their windows. PADS as each ministry tries to meet the How we, the Sisters of St. Casimir, needs of those they serve. This way of giv- long to be the ones in the trenches today, the ing back certainly brings us joy and com- first responders, as we did in the past. But fort. We cannot be stingy with the gifts today, we count on all those who can to “go God has given to us. Yet, somehow, it the distance” with their “always more, always always comes back to us a hundred-fold. better, always with love.” Even though we may May God be praised. not be able to do this ourselves, we have been Thank you for your generous heart. blessed to be able to help those who can, May good health and God’s love goodness through a ministry fund that so many gener- abound in your lives. ous people have contributed to throughout all these past years. Sister Concetta Petrauskas We may not have our own food pantry or our Sister Lourdine own hospital or social service offices, but we have been Ramoska (in white) able to help St. Rita Parish with their ever-growing food the blood sister of Sister Philip, provides distributions, Friends of the Poor in Scranton, PA, where a comforting touch. the need has more than tripled during these months, the

Sisters celebrate Sister Philip Ramoska's 100th birthday. From left, front row: Sister Dolorine Lopez, Sister Sylvia Puchoras, (sitting in wheelchair) Sister Lourdine Ramoska, Sister Philip Ramoska, Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius, Sister Virginia Gapsis, Sister Rita Marie Kerdock, Sister Elenisa Buzas, and Sister Theresa Papsis. Second row, from left: Sister Marilyn Karpovich, Sister Janine Golubickis, Sister Margaret Zalot, Sister Lawrence Puishys, Sister Margaret Petcavage. Also pictured in photo is a caregiver from Franciscan Village and Donna Riskus.

8 Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 w w w.sistersofstcasimir.org 'I Will Not Be Stingy with God' Villa Joseph Marie Unusual Times: Legacy of SSCs Continues Sister Margaret Petcavage Inducted to Wall of Fame

Testimonial by Sister Virginia Gapsis, SSC On Saturday, September 12, It isn't every Congregation that Villa Joseph Marie High School in- gets to have their foundress named a ducted two new members into its Wall holy person. We, Sisters, are truly of Fame: Sister Margaret Petcavage, blessed that Mother Maria left her zone SSC, and former Science Department of comfort in Lithuania, and founded Chair, Marie Politowski. The evening a Congregation of religious women in Sister Margaret Petcavage Scranton, PA, the Sisters of St. Casi- included memorable reflections from mir. Thousands of lives have been Sisters celebrate Sister Concetta's 100 birthday - social distancing and visiting through a window. Sister Concetta is behind the window, far left. the inductees themselves as well as Testimonial by Sister Janine Golubickis, SSC A young teen from Scranton, touched through Mother's dedication from family, friends, and former col- to the Lord. We are pleased and grate- Pennsylvania, came to Villa Joseph leagues. It was a wonderful celebra- ful that Sister Margaret has pursued tion of these two remarkable women Marie High School and studied and the / process and the impact they had, and con- lived there in her high school years. for the past 28 years of her life. tinue to have, on Villa Joseph Marie There her inspiration grew to fol- In order to increase devotion High School. low in the footsteps of Mother Ma- to Mother Maria, monthly Masses Due to the COVID-19 re- ria Kaupas, who had purchased this have been held at the Motherhouse for strictions in place, only a small gath- land for an Eastern residence for her the past 32 years. Sister searched out ering of the inductees' friends and Sisters, and then founded this high different priests and bishops for these family were able to attend in-person. school. Masses so that each priest, as celebrant, However, many well-wishers joined She became Sister Margaret had come to know of Mother's he- roic virtuous life and thus passed this the celebration remotely via a Zoom Petcavage, a Sister of St. Casimir, a knowledge and devotion on to their link, including the Sisters of St. Ca- teacher, and a principal. In her lead- ership role in the religious congrega- parishioners. simir from near and far including In addition, we are proud that tion, Sister Margaret Petcavage re- Argentina! Congratulations to Sister along with the Holy Spirit, Sister Mar- Margaret, SSC, and Marie Politowski turned to the Villa, serving ably as a garet had successfully written a book, as they officially join the Villa Joseph Board member from 1998 to 2008. called a positio, which was sent to Marie Wall of Fame. Sister Margaret has loved Villa. Rome and now preserves the heroic As a historian, she is keenly virtuous life of Mother Maria and the interested in its buildings, people, precious memories of 45 witnesses and evolution. Sister knows stories who actually knew Mother. This 704 about the early days and the develop- page book, which took Sister three ment that has taken place there. We years to write, was presented to our are enriched by what she shares about Holy Father, St. John Paul II, by Fran- this and how Mother Maria lived, cis Cardinal George. Upon receiving loved, and valued this hallowed space. it, the pope said he loves to read this Today Sister’s passion is for type of book. The book was approved by the Committee of Cardinals and the beatification of Venerable Mother thus Mother Maria was named Vener- Maria whose person, holiness, and able . presence permeates all who walk the Thank you, Sister Margaret, corridors of VJM. May Sister’s en- for your dedication to our Foundress deavors contribute to the attainment and our Congregation. of that goal. Sister Margaret Petcavage, accompanied by This is a great honor for Sister Sister Rita Marie Kerdock, drove to Congratulations, Sister Margaret Margaret who always praises and sup- Pennsylvania for the induction. Petcavage, SSC! We rejoice with you as ports her alma mater, Villa Joseph Marie. you are inducted into the Wall of Fame.

w w w. sistersofstcasimir .org Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 9 Future Business Leaders Club at VJM Interview with Mary Frances McNulty

Club members visit Widener University to attend a leadership forum. Flanking Jeanne Frawley the conference’s keynote speaker (at center) are, from left to right: Sarah Taylor, Mary Frances McNulty, Morgan Murphy, Ashley Rosica, Lindsay Morris, and Lauren Redican. During the 2019-2020 school year, to developing well-rounded students, our newsletter, The Bottom Line, Mary Frances McNulty, a junior at who make positive contributions to by sending me an email at Villa Joseph Marie, founded a new society. The FBLC complements this [email protected]. club called the Future Business goal by fostering an environment • How can others get involved? Leaders Club (FBLC). The FBLC where students can learn both ethical Mary Frances: Anyone interested seeks to develop tomorrow’s leaders business and leadership skills. in becoming a FBLC member or and introduce students to the world • How many members? How do assisting/participating in a FBLC of business. Mary Frances agreed to students join? event can contact me at maryfran- answer interview questions. Mary Frances: Although only a year [email protected] or the club’s old, FBLC is one of the largest VJM faculty advisor, James Bender, at • What inspired you to begin the clubs with approximately 44 mem- [email protected]. Future Business Leaders Club? (FBLC) bers. Students are always welcome to • What is the COVID-19 effect? When did it start? Where? join the FBLC. At the start of each Learnings? Mary Frances: Both my parents are school year, we have an introductory Mary Frances: Beginning in March, in the business field, and I have al- session for students to learn about all club meetings were held through ways been curious about how busi- the club and its activities. It is at that Zoom conferences. Although it ini- nesses operate. I thought establishing session where students can sign up tially presented a challenge as we ad- the Future Business Leaders Club to be a member. We also have stu- justed to our new world, it did not (FBLC) would be a great opportuni- dents who become club members prevent the FBLC from meeting and ty to introduce my fellow classmates during the year after attending a organizing events. For example, on to the world of business. The club FBLC sponsored event. May 13, 2020, the FBLC hosted a was founded in my sophomore year, • What do you want us to know Zoom conference with Congress- during the Fall of 2019. Working about FBLC? man Brian Fitzpatrick. The meeting with the club’s faculty advisor, James Mary Frances: The FBLC is com- was attended by both VJM faculty Bender, the FBLC members meet on mitted to building upon the great ac- and students. It covered a series of the first Tuesday of every month to ademic and social environments that topics that ranged from the federal plan club activities. exist at VJM by organizing activities government’s response to COVID-19 • What is the goal? How does this designed to broaden student knowl- to the Congressman’s initiatives to relate to VJM school work? Extra edge about the business world and deal with the opioid epidemic. The activities? What about the spiritual instill the skills necessary to become Zoom conference lasted over an hour aspect? tomorrow’s leaders. We achieve this and a half. The Congressman was so Mary Frances: The mission of the goal by hosting fun events that put impressed by the questions and level FBLC is to introduce students to the students in a position that develops of participation that he extended an world of business and help them de- them as leaders. Anyone interested invitation to us to visit him in Wash- velop the leadership skills necessary in learning more about the FBLC ington, D.C. to succeed in life. VJM is committed and its activities can subscribe to

10 Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 w w w.sistersofstcasimir.org VJM Row Boat Christened 'Sister Regina'

Rowing is a sport rooted in old traditions —one of which is the naming of a rowing shell (boat). A shell is named for some- one or something that is particularly meaningful to the program. On Saturday, September 12, the Villa Joseph Marie High School rowing team in Holland, PA, christened two shells — the new Varsity 4 shell named “Sister Regina,” in honor of the General Superior of the Sisters of St. Casimir, because she is a beacon to the Villa community, and the new Freshman 8 shell, as “Founders,” to honor the girls who founded the rowing team in 2017. Both shells were blessed with holy water from Lithuania, homeland of Mother Maria Kaupas, (foundress of Villa) by Sister Margaret Petcavage, (pic- tured on the far left in photo), a Villa alum. Sister Rita Marie Kerdock, also an alum, christened the shells (photo below). Both former VJM students are now Sisters of St. Casimir, living in Chicago. It was a beautiful morning with beautiful people celebrating the naming of two beautiful shells! Many students, former rowers and parents, along with Villa President Tom Kardish, were in attendance, making the perfect event complete.

LCWR (Leadership Conference of Women Religious) ASSEMBLY Sisters Regina Dubickas, Im- conference. within themselves, their congregations, macula Wendt, and Margaret Zalot Some of the usual assembly their ministries, and LCWR as an or- joined 900 people from across the activities took place during these days – ganization. United States and a number of other prayers, presentations, and small group • A designated fund to support the fu- countries for LCWR’s first ever virtual sharings – all in support of leaders in ture of religious life in the United States assembly August 12-14, 2020. these uncertain times. Of course, the • A national conversation on the The days together focused on informal sharing over meals and be- emerging future of religious life the topic of God’s Infinite Vision: Our tween meetings were missed. We, as a congregation, will be Journey to the Borders and Beyond and The importance of three looking at how we can respond to each how the lives and mission of Catholic LCWR initiatives were noted by the of these initiatives and will be taking Sisters continued to be impacted by LCWR officers: concrete steps to begin working on the two issues – that of COVID-19 and a • A five-year commitment to work on first one, the commitment to work on deeper understanding of racism at this dismantling racism – all members were dismantling racism in ourselves, our time – were explored throughout the invited to name and eradicate racism congregation and our ministries. w w w. sistersofstcasimir .org Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 11 IHM-SSC Covenant Continues by Sister Margaret Zalot This summer the Sisters of St. Casimir and the Sisters, SSC Jubilee Celebration – August 15, 2020. Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary of Scranton, Many IHM Sisters were able to join Sister Margaret Zalot PA, have had numerous opportunities to be together, to virtually through the livestreaming of the Golden Jubilee strengthen the covenant bond between them as Sisters. Celebration from St. Rita Shrine Chapel.

IHM Assembly 2020 – July 25, 2020. SSC Founders Day Reflection – August 28, 2020. As part of our IHM-SSC Covenant, we have gotten to- Individuals and groups of IHMs joined with many SSCs, gether since 2010 with our IHM Sisters of Scranton, PA, Associates, and friends with the Zoom prayer and reflec- on a regular basis – sometimes in Chicago, sometimes tion Continuing the Journey: What will be my next steps? in Scranton. We always have looked forward to the as we marked the 113th anniversary of the founding of the IHM July Assemblies in Scranton – when we met with Sisters of St. Casimir. many of their Sisters for community meetings; jubi- lee celebrations; remembrance of their deceased Sisters; IHM Gathering: The History and Impact of White and their annual St. Joseph Festival, a fundraiser for the Privilege – September 12, 2020. IHM ministry at the St. Joseph Center, a special place Twelve SSCs (Sisters Mary Louise Andrulonis, Theresa in Scranton that serves people who are diagnosed with Dabulis, Regina Dubickas, Janine Golubickis, Grace intellectual disability and those who seek pregnancy sup- Ann Kalafut, Dolorine Lopez, Sylvia Puchoras, Debo- port, adoption assistance, outpatient therapy or medical rah Romanuski, Nancy Streitmatter, Immacula Wendt, day care services. Elizabeth Ann Yocius, and Margaret Zalot) joined many IHMs (from Scranton, Monroe, and Immaculata) , OSPs But this year was an exception because of the COVID-19 (Oblate Sisters of Providence), and IHM Associates for pandemic. There was no live gathering, but 129 Sisters, special presentations and small group discussions on “The including the SSC Leadership Team, participated in the History and Impact of White Privilege,” presented by IHM's first totally online assembly on July 25, 2020. Sharon Durham, Sister of Mercy Associate.

This day included the President’s Address (Sister Ellen The day touched on how many of those who are White Maroney, IHM), in which she challenged those gathered: live out their White privilege, thus perpetuating systemic “Our witness is critically needed today, and we need to racism in our country. Sharon’s sharing of some of the find ways to expand our efforts. If we can’t attend meet- ways we got to this point in our history was very eye- ings or be a public voice, then by phone calls, letters, opening, especially what has been called The Doctrine texts, poetry, art, and music. Our voice, our presence, of Discovery. This Doctrine was formalized in the Papal our participation with and for others in whatever ways Bulls of the 13th and 14th centuries, specifying that the we can is necessary. People look to, and for, us to stand entire world was under the jurisdiction of the Pope, as with them. We cannot be silent or stand on the sidelines. God’s representative on earth. Any land not Christianized We need to claim our place as leaderful women religious could be possessed on behalf of God. These Bulls gave wherever we are and whatever we do.” Columbus and other explorers the legal and moral license to do whatever they wanted to the people and lands they Following the midterm report and reports from various encountered. It’s hard to believe that was what happened. task forces, there were opportunities for small group dis- And today, there are many voices calling for change. We cussions in “Zoom rooms.” The SSC Leadership Team were challenged to hear those voices. made presentations (video clips done by Daina Cyvas) in our legacy space, focusing on four aspects of our life: together for a great love, quality of life during the time IHM-SSC of the pandemic, reaching out to the world as we walk Blessed, hope-filled the talk of peace and justice, and how we have had to Praying, listening, relating readjust because of the pandemic. Open to the future Covenant Also, included in the day’s activities was a video celebra- tion of the 2020 jubilarians, including Sister Margaret Zalot, and a slide show with reflections on those Sisters and Associates, including Sister Maureen Juozopavicius, who have died since their last IHM assembly. 12 Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 w w w.sistersofstcasimir.org IHM-SSC Covenant Continues Remembering Maria Middleton September 10, 2002 – October 8, 2020 by Sister Margaret Zalot On February 15, 2019, we (the Sisters of St. Casimir) first met Maria Middleton. She was a sophomore at Villa Joseph Marie at the time, and she had just been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Maria, her parents, Brian and Susan Middleton, and her , Father Simione Volavola, MSC, had flown to Chicago to pray at the sarcophagus of Mother Maria Kaupas in the chapel at the St. Casimir Center with the Sisters of St. Casimir leadership team. The next day the leadership team accompanied our four visitors to Lemont for a healing service in the Franciscan Village chapel with the Sisters living there. Maria touched our hearts and led us to begin our journey of prayer with her through the intercession of Mother Maria, asking God for her healing. God heard our prayer and Maria was healed – not in the way we were hoping for, but in the way Maria con- tinued her life – bringing her family together as one, ac- cepting the love and support from her school community, praying in the quiet of her home and before the Eucha- rist at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown, PA, and inspring those who attended to Maria during her last four months. Maria connected with by Father Volavola, who returned to Doylestown for this those who came to know her throughout the world. Ma- special Mass. Many priests concelebrated this with him. ria was a special young woman, and we are blessed to The Mass was a beautiful testimony to a life well lived. have known her. Maria did many things well during her short life. On October 8, Maria passed from this life into Her poem "Prayer" was featured in the Spring 2019 issue the loving hands of our God. That morning, Maria’s of Journeys. That poem inspired me to share two haikus mother had a conversation with God – struggling with which express what’s in my heart as I think about Maria God’s will versus hers. Eventually she accepted God’s will and mourn her loss: for herself and for Maria. She told Maria to “Go to God. God promised that there is a beautiful place prepared for Maria, so young us, prepared for you. Go to God.” Shortly afterwards, Did she have to leave us now? Maria died, surrounded by her parents and her siblings. Yes, for Me alone The very next day the Villa community gath- ered on the soccer field for a beautiful memorial service Really, God? with some of Maria’s favorite songs. Both Maria’s parents gave testimony that morning – to Maria’s life, to Maria’s Maria’s work’s done faith, to Maria’s love. Of course, it all was livestreamed, so Our world is a better place whether near or far, many could be a part of this celebra- Because she lived here tion of life. A week later many gathered – this time at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa (virtual- THANK YOU, MARIA! ly) – for a celebration of the final farewell to Maria – by THANK YOU, GOD! participating in the Mass of the Resurrection celebrated

In the month of October, two beloved Sisters went to their eternal rests. Sister Lucille Ann Bandyk, SSC, died on October 23, and Sister Lorraine Therese Siminas, SSC, died on October 24. Their funeral Masses of Resurrection took place at Nativity BVM Church in Chicago on October 30 and November 5, respectively. Due to the production schedule of this issue of Journeys, Sister Lucille Ann and Sister Lorraine Therese’s obituaries will be published in the next issue of Journeys.

w w w. sistersofstcasimir .org Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 13 At Journey’s End — Eternal Days Beginning Sister Margaret Mary Mazgelis , SSC February 18, 1926 – August 5, 2020 Sister Margaret At the time of her 60th Jubilee in 2006, Sister Mary Mazgelis (bap- Margaret Mary wrote, “I found it rewarding to instill tized Lillian) was born spiritual values and love of God into the hearts and minds on February 18, 1926, of those I taught. This realization of how so many lives in Brockton, Massa- were touched through my years of teaching is brought chusetts, to Clement to mind every holiday when former students remind me and Margaret Mazgelis. how I have touched their lives.” She was the fourth of She was elected to congregational leadership in five children, who were 1998 and served as General Secretary until 2003. Sis- raised with a love of ter Margaret Mary then became Administrative Assistant God and of music. to General Superior M. Immacula Wendt, serving until Sister Margaret 2013. Sister Margaret Mary had a flair for writing, not Mary came to Chica- for just knowing the right words to say, but adding that go to complete high school at St. Casimir Academy “personal” touch to each letter. She also took joy in us- at the suggestion of her older sister, Sister M. Clem- ing her artistic touch of calligraphy on cards, posters, and ent Mazgelis, who had entered the Sisters of Casimir. documents. Sister Margaret Mary graduated from the academy in One visible way Sister Margaret Mary left her 1944 and then entered the Sisters of St. Casimir on mark is her gift of designing and creating floral arrange- August 15, 1944. ments. She decked each area of the Motherhouse with She continued her education after her entrance, her seasonal decorations. She also decorated the altars in earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from the chapel. Her floral arrangements still decorate areas of Marywood College, Scranton, PA. She later earned her the St. Casimir Center and brighten each Sister’s apart- Master of Education degree in Administration/Super- ment at Franciscan Village. vision from Loyola University, Chicago. Sister Margaret Mary also loved music, singing in Finding both joy and personal fulfillment in the Sisters’ choir and taking part in congregational sing- her life’s work, Sister Margaret Mary observed, “My ing. She played the piano – giving many lessons – and vocation is very precious to me. It was the way of life played the organ at parishes and the Motherhouse, and I accepted – to serve God and the people of God with was a member of the Sisters’ orchestra, playing violin. love and dedication. I rejoice that I answered God’s in- She also enjoyed going to White Sox baseball games – and vitation.” never did admit she was a Red Sox fan. Sister Margaret Mary was an educator for over When someone was in need, Sister Margaret 50 years, serving primarily in the Archdiocese of Chi- Mary’s heart pushed her to make a difference in their cago. Besides assignments at schools in Indiana (St. lives. She attended SWOP (the Southwest Organizing Francis, Indian Harbor) and Pennsylvania (St. Joseph, Project) action council meetings and was an active sup- Scranton), she taught kindergarten, primary, and el- porter of SWOP’s immigration and anti-violence work in ementary grades in Chicago at Providence of God, St. the neighborhood. George, and Nativity BVM, and at St. Anthony in Ci- The support and love of her sister, Sister Clement, cero until 1960. For many years she not only taught was a blessing. Sharing life together and caring for each her regular classes, but taught music lessons after school other in good and difficult times became even more of a hours. blessing when they both moved to Franciscan Village in From 1960 to 1970, Sister Margaret Mary 2015. In this season of their lives, they grew closer to one taught English, Math, History, and Lithuanian at another, first living in rooms across the hall in Indepen- Maria High School in Chicago while also teaching dent Living and then being together when more care was Aspirants and Postulants, young women interested in needed in Assisted Living. becoming Sisters of St. Casimir. She followed by as- Sister Margaret Mary reflected on her 60th Jubilee: suming the role of Superior at the Motherhouse from “What I have learned over the years and want to pass on 1970 to 1976. to others is to have faith and trust in God. I am grateful Teaching English at Maria H.S. was Sister that my community, the Sisters of St. Casimir, continues Margaret Mary’s focus between 1976 and 1983. Her to be a great gift to the Church and to the world by our mission further developed in 1983 when she returned faith and trust in God, our hospitality and kindness.” to Nativity BVM as its principal, where she dedicated On August 5, 2020, Sister Margaret Mary once herself until 1996. again answered God’s call, this time to come home to Him.

14 Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 w w w.sistersofstcasimir.org At Journey’s End — Eternal Days Beginning Sister Delphine Grigas June 20, 1916 – October 11, 2020 Sister Delphine Grigas and began preparing for her work in pastoral care where (baptized Helen Dorothy) she would minister to the sick and those who were dying was born in Nanticoke, and give support to their families. PA, on June 20, 1916, to With her certificate in Contemporary Hospital Lithuanian immigrants Ministry, Sister Delphine served at Holy Cross Hospital Dominic and Theophila from 1975 to 1983. Her following years were spent in a Grigas. Shortly after her number of different parish settings: at St. Bartholomew birth, the family moved to in Waukegan as secretary, at St. Norbert in Northbrook Shenandoah, PA. Helen in tutoring and special education, at Sacred Heart in New had five brothers and three Philadelphia as secretary and participation in the RCIA sisters, one of whom was program and the Little Rock Scripture Studies, at St. Casimira, who entered the Joseph Home in Holland, PA, as assistant to the social Sisters of St. Casimir and worker, at St. Parish in Holland, PA, assisting in the professed her vows as Sis- CCD program, and at St. Helena Parish in Hobbs, New ter Vivian. Mexico, as a catechist. Events that led to Sister Delphine’s decision to Throughout her life, Sister Delphine adjusted enter religious life and the Sisters of St. Casimir were her to the changes in her health and energy level and to the sister’s entrance to the Sisters of St. Casimir and a rela- needs of others. She wrote, “There is a time to do some- tionship, through correspondence, with her godmother, thing, and a time to let go of something, especially when Sister Petronella, SSC. unable to continue in the same capacity.” With a desire She entered the community in 1938 and pro- to share with others what she had found helpful, Sister fessed her first vows on August 15, 1941, as Sister Del- Delphine put together and published "Heavenly Sense," phine. She had the joy of celebrating her Silver Jubilee a collection of inspirational sayings. She especially valued in 1966, her Golden Jubilee in 1991, and her Diamond the privilege of going to the Holy Land in celebration of Jubilee (75 years) in 2016. her Golden Jubilee. Sister Delphine received a Bachelor of Science The last years of Sister Delphine’s life were spent degree in Education from Marywood College in Scran- at Franciscan Village where she continued her ministry of ton PA. Throughout her long life, she was a life-long prayer and presence. Many loved to visit with her as she learner, later receiving certification as a Pastoral Minister remained alert and attentive to all that was going on. She from Mercy Hospital in Chicago. She also took part in always had a few jokes to share with whomever visited. many educational opportunities to enhance her ministe- She often would say to someone, “I love you and there’s rial skills and talents in education, spirituality, and pasto- nothing you can do about it.” ral care. She valued the friendships formed over the years. For 35 years, Sister Delphine taught children in One very special one was with Dr. James Klein, whom grades one through eight in eight different states: Illinois she got to know at Holy Cross Hospital. She became part ( School in Brighton Park, St. of his family, who welcomed and accompanied her in the Anthony School in Cicero, St. Peter School in Volo, St. many stages of her life and prepared a memorable gala Norbert School in Northbrook, and St. Pius X School celebration of Sister Delphine’s 100th birthday. in Stickney); Pennsylvania (St. Casimir School in Phila- Sister Delphine lived a very rich and fulfilling delphia, Sacred Heart School in New Philadelphia, and life, touching the hearts and lives of many people. As St. George School in Shenandoah); Massachusetts (St. she celebrated one of her milestone birthdays, she wrote, Casimir School in Worcester); Maryland (St. “Most importantly was God’s gift of time (and still is) School in Aberdeen); Florida (St. Clement School in Fort reminding me to cherish every moment because it will Lauderdale); California (St. Casimir School in Los An- never come again. . .Besides my family, I count among geles); Rhode Island (St. Casimir School in Providence); my blessings the Sisters I have lived with in community, and New Mexico (Our Lady of Guadalupe School). Of faithful friends, and relatives.” her years in this important ministry of education, Sister Sister Bernadette Marie Janus, Sister Theresa Delphine wrote, “Every child I taught, every new class I Dabulis, and Sister Janine Golubickus attended to many had, every state I lived in, enriched my life in some way. of Sister Delphine’s needs at Franciscan Village. All the As I gave, so also, I received.” Sisters shared life with her, prayed with her, and visited After 35 years of teaching, Sister Delphine felt with her. We are grateful to God for the blessing of Sister that God was preparing her for a different ministry, that Delphine. May she know the fullness of joy in God’s pres- of pastoral care. She moved to the Motherhouse in 1975 ence forever. w w w. sistersofstcasimir .org Sisters of St. Casimir "Journeys" — Fall 2020 15 Journeys Non-Profit Organization Sisters of St. Casimir US POSTAGE PAID 2601 W. Marquette Road Permit No. 42 Chicago, IL 60629 So. Suburban, IL

JOURNEYS is published by The Sisters of St. Casimir

This publication is sent free of charge to relatives, friends and benefactors of the Sisters of St. Casimir. We thank you for the voluntary donations that you send to help us defray the cost of printing, postage and handling. Editor: Daina Cyvas, Communications and Project Coordinator [email protected] Editor: Fran Tenbroeck Adviser: Sister Margaret Zalot, SSC Contact us: 773-349-8064 www.sistersofstcasimir.org

St. Casimir-Maria Alumnae Association News The St. Casimir-Maria Alumnae Association office was at the Please continue to update your contact information and Maria Kaupas Center (MKC), and the MKC staff chaired send us your email addresses and any changes so the data the annual reunion for the past few years. Alumnae News base can be current. It was unfortunate that Reunion was also included in the MKC Newsletter. During the 2020 2020 had to be cancelled. We may have to wait a while summer, major changes in the staff at the MKC occurred, until it is safe to plan another reunion. and with remote learning happening for the Catalyst-Maria students, for at least Fall 2020, the SCA-MHS Alumnae Some alums receive Journeys, and if you know of other office and data base have been moved to the St. Casimir alums that would like to receive Journeys, please send us Center/Motherhouse. contact information and we will add to the mailing list. The new contact information is: St. Casimir-Maria Alumnae Association We plan to have Alumnae News in future issues of c/o Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius, SSC Journeys, a publication of the Sisters of St. Casimir. 2601 West Marquette Road Chicago, IL 60629-1817 773-349-8065 www.stcasimir-mariaalum.com [email protected]