Lisle Benedictine Women Vol. 41 No. 1 Sacred Heart Monastery June 2018

Just a closer walk with thee Message from the Prioress...

“Just a closer walk with thee, grant it, Jesus is my plea. Daily walking close to thee let it be, dear Lord let it be.” (Refrain from an American Folk song.)

You will read about our beloved Sister Mildred in this issue. She was a rock, a powerful woman of faith and prayer. She understood her fragility. We knew her goodness.

We all knew her favorite song was “Just A Closer Walk With Thee.” We sang it often as our opening at Vespers. On my part, I witnessed Sister singing prayerfully these lyrics of this song by heart as in her aging situation she was less and less likely to see. Sister listened at Vespers to the rest of the prayers but always chimed in with this song. Somehow in December of 2017, in my heart and hers too, we felt the end was near.

For some time after December, she still came to Vespers. It was at this time and during the times she could no longer come, that the lyrics of her favorite song began to speak to me more profoundly. I not only thought of Mildred but I found myself before the Blessed Sacrament praying that prayer during my evening contemplative time before the Lord. It became my mantra as I began to realize how much I wanted a closer and closer relationship to Jesus also. Why did I want it? Because the Lenten season challenges us to intentionally grow our relationship with the Lord. After all, isn’t that one of the reasons we have the season of Lent- to do what we can to more fully appreciate Jesus’ love for us, to allow ourselves to be changed, to become more like Jesus. When we work to embrace that challenge, Easter becomes real.

So I say thank you to Sister Mildred for gifting me the words to that song and her modeling of being Christ to others.

Life, death and Resurrection happen quite often at Villa St. Benedict. Between the family, staff, and caregivers - I call them care companions - we are able to witness and take part in many dying moments. While it is difficult, it is also rewarding. We see many being the face of Christ among us.

Our faith tells us that God gave His life that we might all journey to heaven to experience that Resurrection promised us where we will be embraced by the God for whom we have asked for “a closer walk with Thee.”

2 May She Rest in the Peace of the Lord

opportunities to get away from doing tasks at home ... “Sorry Mom, I promised to help Sister in Church.” Lillian knew her Mother would never compete with the needs of the Sisters!

When Lillian graduated in 1934, she found herself really lucky to be going to Sacred Heart Academy in Lisle. During her time in the Academy, she became an Aspirant, actively thinking about becoming a Sister. She liked what she saw as the Sisters prayed, observed Reflection on the Life of Sister silence and seemed joyful in their Mildred (Lillian) Slabenak, OSB composure. At this young age she began her serious discernment and she credited Sister Mildred Slabenak was born in her pious Mother’s prayers for her Cicero, on January 16, 1920, the religious vocation. sixth of seven children born to Frances and Frank Slabenak. As good Catholic Soon after graduating from the Academy immigrants from Moravia in Lillian entered the Formation period and , her parents decided to as a Novice received her religious name: baptize her Ludmilla after the holy Sister Mildred. Her consecrated life grandmother of good King Wenceslaus of became real when she pronounced her . However, when she started Benedictine vows in 1941. school, Ludmilla sounded too “Czesky” so Sister earned her Bachelor’s Degree in her name was translated to Lillian. Education from DePaul University in

Lillian attended Our Lady of the Mount and through the years was sent School in Cicero. The Benedictine Sisters to various Parochial Schools staffed by from Lisle staffed the school and she was the Lisle Benedictine Sisters: St. Michael’s very fond and impressed by the Sisters. in Chicago, St. Mary of Celle in Berwyn, SS She often spoke about the kindness and Cyril & Methodius and St. Mary’s patience of Sister Adalbert and Sister Assumption in Joliet, St. Thomas and St. Mary Bernard, the choir directress who Peter’s in Fort Worth, TX, and Holy Child made her responsible for putting away in Prague, OK. Her final mission was her the music sheets and keeping the home , Our Lady of the Mount in cupboards in order. Sister Albina gave Cicero, where she spent forty-two years: instructions on cleaning the sacristy and first as a teacher, then principal, plus asked her help in arranging the flowers nineteen more years in parish ministry. for the altars. This was indeed a privilege Her stability in the parish along with her for Lillian, who loved working with the personal witness brought about a Sisters. Helping Sister Albina gave her peaceful approach to change, especially

3 welcoming Hispanic arrivals during the before she thanked God for her good life transition from a predominately Czech here every night. Parish. Her final hours came gradually as her Her parish ministry blossomed and body weakened and her voice was almost included bringing Communion to the sick mute. It was Saturday evening, April 28th, in homes, hospitals and nursing homes, 2018 as the Sisters were singing God’s driving those who needed to get to praises at Vespers, the office of Sunday of doctors’ appointments, maintaining the the 5th week of Easter, that Sister Mildred sanctuary and altar linens, beautifully saw the light of God’s glory. As her decorating the altar with fresh flowers for Benedictine Community learned of her Sundays and feast days, grocery shopping final breaths they surrounded her with and cooking for the Fathers at the rectory united hearts and petitioned God to (we heard she knew her spices and was a receive her with a joyous welcome to the gourmet cook) and writing impressive new life promised to faithful servants. reflections about those who died, As Benedictine Sisters, may we never congratulatory thoughts for anniversaries forget our link with the communion of and thank you letters to those who were saints, and trust, that now with full voice of service or gave donations. Because she Sister Mildred, too, is singing the knew the people she served so well, the Benedictine psalmody of the Divine Office flare in her writing was personal, heartfelt as she harmonizes with the Angels and and included her clever words of humor. Saints in the beauty of choral acclaim of One of the Sisters shared an example of our merciful Savior. how Sister Mildred would liven up daily -Sister Christine Kouba, OSB living. During an approaching snow storm, the Superior told the two of them More Reflections ... to get up at 4:00 a.m. to shovel snow which was about to barricade the parish “One of the gifts of being in family and or convent entrance. This was a physically community is to witness love in action strenuous job that would break into a and Mildred did that for me and others good night’s rest. However, with Sister did that for her. Mildred making wise cracks, the heavy job It was July of was made a memorable delight. 2017, Sister For her closing years here at the Mildred’s last Monastery Sister Mildred was well known living sibling for her quick wit and for her eagerness to Angie Kec tell the fantasies of her dreams which she was dying. would recount in detail, most of which Fortunately, had unfinished endings. She loved music we have an and played Mexican music for herself in accessible the evenings. She liked to sing and van so we were able to take Mildred to harmonize but found it impossible as she visit her. It was a most loving grew older. She was very fond of Fannie environment to witness the caring May Chocolates and her bedtime routine relationship between Angie’s daughters, was to have two pieces of chocolate their husbands and Sister Mildred.

4 A few months after Angie’s death Sister Mildred was at a point where she needed to be fed. Lord, we are off to a new beginning. While many We ask You to create within each of us assisted her, a new spirit and a new heart. We will one day I make every effort to make this went to our beginning special, by being mindful of Your Presence. St Walburga Care Center In so doing: and found * We will be free of all fear Sister Benita and become more confident in all we say or do. feeding Mildred, as “she wanted to do * We will be able to accept something.” and understand ourselves and others. -Sister Mary Bratrsovsky, OSB * We will be a positive influence on each other and promote “Sister Mildred truly lived a life of prayer. peace, love and joy. One morning I came to her room in tears. She wasn’t looking at me but could When we come to realize any success, it will be because we immediately sense something was amiss. remembered You, O Lord. Amen. She suggested a trip to the chapel where we prayed to our Mother Mary and sat in Sister Mildred Slabenak, OSB absolute yet comforting silence. She was always telling me to have faith in the Lord in times of great distress.” -Marissa Tran, CNA

“If there was ever a friend who was an example of the consecrated life, that Sacred Heart Academy Alumnae friend would be Sister Mildred. We are searching for all of our Alumnae. First, there is a sense of humor. Able to If you received this issue of the LBW, but translate the mundane and the did not receive the March Echo, or monotonous into a joyful event, Sister invitations to our October Homecoming, Mildred teaches us about holy love. you are on our mailing list, but not coded Second, there is always a vision of life. as a Sacred Heart Academy alumna. Able to speak and sing about God, Sister Mildred teaches us about how to be a Please help us update our records by child of God. contacting Beth Hemzacek at Third, there is always a confidence that [email protected], or send a note to Benedictine Sisters attn.: SHA Alumnae God is in charge even when we are not sure where we are going. Only able to 1910 Maple Ave Lisle, IL 60532. whisper in the last few months of her life, Homecoming will be Saturday, October Sister Mildred teaches us to look forward 20th at Villa St. Benedict. Invitations will to heaven.” be mailed in August. -Rev. Becket Franks, OSB

5 Treasured History and Tradition Sister Barbara Ann Svec, OSB

Spending time reading different with only four commodes, and this room documents, letters, etc. in our Archives is was way down in the basement. a very interesting venture. I recently re- There were oodles of examples of read a piece titled “Remembrances of a practicing poverty. Every pin, every piece Postulant in 1909” and written by Sister of thread is to be picked up and saved. Mary Coletta Novak, OSB. It is an Soap, oh, we received a bar of soap only enlightening description of a pioneer once in three months. For the washing of Sister’s life. clothes also we were taught, and had to be “I entered the convent in 1901 in very saving. For meals we were also very the old Convent in Chicago, located on saving. We had fruit for special Feasts, I 18th St. and Paulina. I was about the 40th can say not more times than five or six member to come. Our lives there then times a year. This was some home were quite rigid by today’s standards. canned fruit when we could buy very Great stress was on poverty, silence, cheaply and can ourselves. The peelings prayer life and mortification, plus strict were made into jam; not a speck was obedience and practices of penance for wasted. Sugar was saved also. Sweets we the least transgressions. Humility was got only for St. Nicholas and Christmas mostly cherished and practiced. Union and very sparingly. For spread for with God was very easy with the silence breakfast only very cheap molasses or and faithful practices we practiced. that jam from peelings. Once a week we Handling of articles noisily was looked got tallow made butter. For lunches only down upon. Silence, as spiritual books real hard dried bread we had gotten free quote, is the best measure of union with from the baker. On washdays we were God. During the day, after the signal for allowed molasses on our lunch bread, no silence, after recreations allowed which other days. was sparse, only talking in a whisper was Drink, we had prescribed and practiced. only roasted Here are some ways we practiced barley for poverty. For washing clothes - which we coffee, or cocoa did by hand, rubbing the clothes on the shells cooked washboard - we used aprons made from were to be our burlap. Calico aprons were frail for such cocoa. Tea was rough work and wore out sooner. We also served for used only kerosene lamps in the supper.” dormitory, and for the night we were to have the light lowered. At the rising bell in the morning the one nearest the lamp was to make it “teeny” brighter for us dressing. Every corridor had one Sister Mary Coletta Novak, OSB kerosene lamp and for the night it was allowed to give a small light for the corridor. We had one general bathroom

6 Tuesday Night with the Sisters

Four years ago, we began an evening efficiency. To truly implement the program called Tuesday Night with the Benedictine values of hospitality, justice, Sisters. On the second Tuesday of the month, respect and stewardship, we can benefit we gather in the Chapter Room with from learning very specific steps to residents from Villa St. Benedict and guests increase/improve our listening skills. from the local community for a presentation Presenter: Cindy Power and discussion. September 11: Peace on Earth: Exploring the We invite you to join us for Tuesday Night call of Pope John XXIII. with the Sisters. The programs begin at The anniversary of September 11th is a 7:00pm, and usually last one hour. Here’s a painful reminder of how far we are from look at our schedule for this year. peace on earth. Join oblates of Sacred Heart Monastery as we explore Saint Pope John XXIII's call for peace on earth in his 1963 2018 Theme: The Diversity of Benedictine encyclical "Pacem in terris" and celebrate our Life – how sisters, monks, oblates and lay own prayer service for peace throughout this people live their Benedictine Life entire planet we call home. Presenters: Jane Doyle, Beth Hemzacek, and April 10: Monastic Prayer Cathy Lentz Let's take a look at and appreciate the prayer life of monastics. October 16: The Great Silence Presenters: Sisters Mary Bratrsovsky, In this age and culture of Twitter storms and Christine Kouba, Sharon Marie Stola. constant outrage, we could benefit from the wisdom of St. Benedict regarding Restraint May 8: Stability and Environmental of Speech. This presentation examines the Stewardship: Think Global, Act Local value of silence in a well-lived life. Jean-Marie Kauth will describe her work with Presenter: Chris Fletcher environmental stewardship at and elsewhere and discuss the November 13: “Bridge or Barrier? Mary and connection with the Benedictine hallmark of Christian-Muslim Relations” stability. Moving through early, medieval, and modern Presenter: Jean-Marie Kauth, PhD times to travel across Western Europe and the Balkans to the Middle East and India, this June 12: What Makes a Homily Good? talk will explore how Mary's role in Christian Homily means “dialogue.” So, let’s really -Muslim relations has constantly shifted talk. from bridge to barrier and back again. Presenter: Father Becket Franks Presenter: Rita George-Tvrtkovic

August 14: LISTENING: “He who has ears, let Updates will be posted on our website him hear” (Mk 4:23; Mt 11:15) www.shmlisle.org and our Facebook page. Most of us spend considerably more time each day in listening rather than in reading writing or speaking, yet we listen at only 25%

7 With grateful thanks ~ B~ ~ Autero Marcella Laurence andDianeAustin H. Aubele Alice Asche Diane Bob andCarolArthurs Judy Arcy Joseph Archibald andMichelle Arbuckle andCarolAnn Ted Antonello Antonetta Anonymous Christopher andLauraAngela and Gerard Carolyn Andree andRebecca Martin Anderson Linda Anderson Theresa Alton andKathy Chuck Allberry AlfredsonTerry and James Fink Nancy Albrecht Anne Albrecht Albachiara Nicholas AitchisonRonald Patricia and Ahern G. Virginia andGeorge Helen Ackermann A~ Joella Barrett Philip andRegina Barden JosephineBarauskas M.BaranowskiEva Baranowski Family LouBaraMary B. Baltes, Gabriel Father OSB L.BallRebecca andNormDorothy Ball Jerome andRoberta Balicki Joan A.Bales Dolores andFrankBalaja Dolores Baker Anne andRobert Bailie Edwin Bach

With grateful hearts, we acknowledge and thank and acknowledge we hearts, With grateful the following donors who gave us their support their us gave who donors the following

January 2017 2017 January

Trudy andIrwin BergTrudy Barbara Beres Angela Beres Ann Beranek Ernie andRosemary Beran John and Bernadette Rosemary Bennett Anne Benitz Mother'sBenet Academy Marguerite andRichard Marisol Beltran andNick LouBellioMary Pugliese Jerome andBernadette BeckCarol andDon Lou and AnneBeccavin Arlene Beaman Bazan andMarilyn Richard Roxelyn Baumgartner Angela Baumgartner Baumgartner Construction Brad Bonnie and Bates BatchosDennis andPatricia Marie Bartolotta andEileenBarryMichael Barrett Patrick Kevin Barrett Marianne Bieker Chris and BobBiedron Judith M.Beumer Celeste Besel Berry LaTanya ClaireBerry Mary Bernstein andPenny Victor andDonna BernsteinPerry Berkhout andMary Keith BergmanMary BergerMary BergantCarol Ann Becker Benvegnu Club Belval Herrera

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December 2017 December

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Johnson

Rosalie Bobal Carol LamlechBlum Eleanor Blankenship Blakemore andMary Keith Barbara Blair Kristin Bladek Robert andPatricia Susan Bisinger Samuel andJosephine BirkleyMark andDiane Fund Birck Family The Thomas and Susan Binder andJeanneMichael andBarbaraDan Brochmann RussBritton Lorrie Brinn Maureen Brinkman andMikeBriles Nancy Sophia Bridger andKathryn BrennanMichael BrennanDorothe LaVerne Breisch Vernon and Helen Breen John and Joan Ann Brazda Maureen Infanger Brauch Rose Braido Barbara Braico Lawrence Brady Jerry andCarolBrady Robert andEileen Boyda Georges andJoanne Bordage Leah Anderson Bond andBeatriceBolandPatrick Brian andJanet Boland Dolores Bogolin Ken andChrisBoeschen John andBockrath Valerie Dolores Bochniarz Ann andBrandMary Bobosky Lawrence andTheresa Bobko

Blackshear Brommer

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Hall

With grateful thanks

Davidson Culligan Steven and Therese DeSitter and Therese Steven Mary DeStefano Corinne Devine Rosemarie Robert deVito DiardLoretta J. Kathy DiCristina and Anthony DanielDietzler and Patricia Sabina D'Orio Dalpiaz Carolyn Joseph and Frank Daly and Estelle DambachPhilip Alice Darda Darrah Jeannie Dorothy Davey and CharletteCharles Marc Davilo and Elaine DavisHenry and Maria De Nicolo James Daisy Decamotan Pat T Deiss VickyMiriam DeLeon J. Vicky DeLeon DeLeonardis Carol Jean Marilyn Demakes and Glenn LorettaSteve and Denes M. Denning Shawn Michael Derry and Rita and MaryRonald DeSando Elizabeth Cosgrove Costin Joan Restaurant Country House and Steve Coutchie Joanne Natalie Couvillon Val Creasy Michael Crowell and Elise Stuart and Catherine Crowley Linda Cull Jacki Cullen and John Roseanne and Matthew David Cupal Paul and Gail Curtin ~D ~

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Christenson Chaloupka Bob and Helen Corsentino and Helen Bob John and Rosemary Collins Rosemary and John Collins Louise Conley Irma Mary Lee Conley Nancy F. Conley Margaret Connolly Michaelene Conrad and John Erica Anne Coppolino CorbineBarbara Mary Corel Carol Corrigan and John John and Sung Eun Choie Eun Sung and John Chojnowski Joan and John and Sharon Dennis Chung Helena Margaret Chung and Teodosia Cinert James Ciuffreda Jean Donna Mary Clark Robert and Marlene Clark W. Cogger Stephan Cole Susan Patrick Cawiezel and Linda Celba James and Robert Cellini Donna Carl Cepek Chackanad Anniamma Christine and James and Elaine Chase Charles Cecelia Chen Chobot Ellen and Joe David and Karen Choie Dorothy Campbell Caprata Lois J. Gloria Caracello Lorelei Carey and DeborahBob Cargo Carlisle Judith Kevin and Lori Carlson Robert and Mary Cassady Castillo Luz David Catrone and Barbara Catheryn Cawiezel

Kec

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Donor acknowledgement continued acknowledgement Donor Dennis and Joan Callan and Joan Dennis MaryClem and Campbell CabaAngeline Carol Cain Adelia and Donald Buttitta ~ ~ C Edward and Kay Burton Timothy and Molly Bush and Joyce Butler Stephen John and Nancy and John Burns Kevin and Stacey Burns Burton Anne Barbara Buri Barbara Buric Ken and Judy David Burk and Tricia Stephen Burak Stephen Tom Wanda and Burdett LaVerne Budilovsky David and Kathleen Buettner and DeeEdmund Bujalski Irene Buckner Irene Ninfa L. Bucol Michael and Lynn Budd Marie Buchelt Bucher and Irene Stephen BuckleyRobert and Melissa Therese Buc Therese Bucek Helen Lorraine Buchanan Nancy Bruss Laurie Bruzan and John Dot Brzoza Charles and Catherine Brummel Catherine and Charles Bruno and John Dolores Debra Broxterman Broz and Joan Jerry Bruketa Robert and Karen Fred and PatBrown Brown Ken and Jane Brown Marsha Audrey Brown Beatrice Brown CarolBrown Chris and Jeff and Monica BrousterJeff With grateful thanks L.Evans Cheryl HaynesCandace Evans EubanksHarold andMarylee Beverly Esser Helen Ercegovac andMary Joan MarieEngel andElizabeth Elmen Gary Rosemarie Ellmer Ken andSueEkins E~ ~ Dzurko Shirley Jonathan Dye andAmy andDon Donna Dutton Jean Durnik Dolores Durkin EllenDurbin Mary Sallie Gustine Duncan andAndrew DugenskeMary Pat and Loren Due James Dudley Laura andBill Drew Drevalas Geraldine andSandraDrapeauRichard Joseph Dragula Drager andDebra Ed Association Staff DPL Jane A.Doyle Helen F.Doyle DoughertyWilliam andLoretta Joe andLauraDorenkamp DoranNancy andDeanna DonovanMichael Marie Donofrio Mark andAngelaDollins Janet Doll Marion R.Dolan Theresa Dohler Barbara Dinon Carl andJoAnne DiNello DiMaggio Gladys Raymond andRuth Dillon Donor acknowledgement continued

Margaret Fullmer Fritz andDavid Mary Fritz Dorothy Rosemarie C.Frey Fredricks Nijole Franks Albin Emil andFrances Foytik andJimAndrea Fox Adrienne Forstneger andElio Elizabeth Mary Rosemary and Bill Foley Roseann andJackFlowers andJimCharlotte Floyd Robert andChristineFlores andElizabeth Patrick Flood Randall Jr. Flint Leonard Joan and Fletcher James andMargaretFletcher Lillian Fleming Ann Flannery Edward Cynthia and Deacon Robert Fitt Dolores Fisher Margaret Fimia Rose MarieandClement Rose Fico FichterRobert andDiana Fey Richard Janice andSalFerreri FerraroPatricia Frank andLucilleFerraro andKarenFerraroAnthony Judith and Kenneth Ferestad Liz Fenner FenclDorothy Joseph andEileenFedinec Marion Fayta Angela Fay FassbenderTom andNellie andJacqueFarnausNorb Celeste Fallon Helen and Clarence Faldyn F~ ~ Fornatto Fitzgibbon Filliben

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Marty andMaribeth GaughanMarty FGattuso Mary Irene Gasior Adrienne Garvey Garrett Tom and Gloria andKenneth Garhan Dorothy Elizabeth Gardner Carol Gapen Gamboney Patrick Gambo Annette Gallo Vera Joseph Gallagher V. John Gallagher andBarbara Galitz Dick Jean Gacek and William Catherine Gacek G ~ Anne LauraGorman Robert Gorisch Dr J.Sara Gordon Madonna Goodsell Ofelia B. Gonzales andJudithEdward Gonwa andIrene GondekStanley Bernadine Gonda GomezCarol andRichard Golminas Donald LouGolfFrank andMary Jack Goebel Robert Goblet Rosemary Glickley ParkDistrict Ellyn Glen Barbara Gleason Girard Paul andAudry Helen B. Giordano Giordano Doris Roger andIrene Ginger Gilmartin Marjorie M.Gillett Willis Gillen Mary Carlene Gerlich Jeanne Gensler andTimothy Ann and Mary William Joanne Geist James Gefre Gendusa

Donor acknowledgement continued

M. Jean Gorman Daniel and Dianne Harvanek Genevieve Houck Michael and Marelyn Gorman Anne and Edward Hatfield Bert and Mary Hrnicek Nora Gorman Cecile and Francis Haugh Eleanor Hrody Phil and Cathy Gorski Elizabeth F. Hayes Rose Marie Hrzenjak Dorothy Grahovec Betty Hays Thomas Hrzenjak Marie Graiziger James and Judy Healy Roger Huerter Richard and Patti Grantner Gerard and Eileen Heble James and Dorothy Huggins Jarie Granton Kurt and Cindy Heier J. Ronald Hughes Terry Gratz Julianne Heilman Lois Hughes Art and Carole Gravelle Dorothy Heinen Joyce Hutchinson Marie Gray Eleanor Heinze Michael and Janice Greco Donald and Susan Helgeson ~ I - J ~ Joseph B. Green Joan and Richard Helie Brian and Karen Grega William and Monica Susan Illing

Clyra Gregory Hellenbrand David Inge With grateful thank grateful With Andrew Greskovich Kevin Helmick Therese Ireland Susan E. Greytak Elizabeth Hemzacek Judith Iverson Dave and Louise Grobl Marybeth Henrick Brian and Lisa Jablonski Stephen Grobl Mary Ann Henry Dorothy Jablonski Margaret Guccione Robert Henry Ronald and Charlotte Joan Guido Jaime Hernandez Jablonski Don and Maureen Gushurst Ana Herrera Louise and Len Jachim Bernadette Guzzy-Blaurock Dolores Hertenstein Stephen and Karen Jackson GWR Wealth Management Timothy and Margaret Herter Viola Jacobie Therese and Ernest Herzog Thomas Jacobs ~ H ~ Madalyn Higgins Irene Jacobson Mary Ann Hiles Frank Jallits Richard Haas Adam and Antoinette Hill Irvin M. Jana Peter and Mary Hable Carla Hill Frank and Stana Jasien Gen Hadamik Shirlee Jasien s

Hilton Lisle/Naperville Tom and Joan Haffner John and Dorothy Hinds Rob and Millie Jaskula John and Rose Hamerla Carol and Jerry Hinterlong Frank and Donna Jasurda James and Linda Hammond Joseph Hlado Ron and Maryellen Jasurda Barbara Hanchin Florence Hlava Shirlee Jecmen Mark and Kathryn Hanf Julie Hnatiuk Joseph Jenista Chuck and Trudy Hanley Barbara and John Hocking Doris Jennings Kirk and Paula Hansen Joyce and Phillip Hoffman Kenneth Jentzsch Joe Hantsch Catherine Hofstetter John and Josephine Jerak Sheila Hargrave Patricia Hogan Jerome and Carol Jeslis John and Peggy Harrington Terence Hogan Alo Jha Ann Harris Kathi Holper Anthony Jilek Dolores Harris John Hopkins Julia Jilek Joseph and Susan Harsa Barbara Hopp Rose Marie A. Jirasek Richard and Penny Harter Harriet Hora Eugene and Virginia Jobin Ray and Jean Hartman Richard and Mary Jean Horna Jeanne Johnson Rosemary Hartnett Mary Houchins Peggy Johnson

11 Donor acknowledgement continued

Raeita F. Johnson Dolores King Michael and Jeanne Kruppe Ted R. Johnson Jane King Wish and Shirley Kucik David and Nicole Jones Phyllis St Mary Kintrea Karen and Edward Kuhn Doris B. Jones Thomas and Constance Sidney and Joyce Kulek Raymond and Marilyn Jones Kirkenmeier Edward and Sharon Kulik Ruth Jung Rosemary Kiss Maria Kulma Thomas and Patricia Jung Greg and Linda Klawitter David and Nancy Kuske Mary Anna Jurasek Harry and Robin Kleronomos Carol Ann Kusulas John and Dorothy Jurcenko David Klima Bill and Jeanie Juvancic Elmer Klima ~ L ~ Dolores Kling Arlene Klus John and Meg Lafferty ~ K ~ Leon and Julie LaFond Barbara Knierim Cynthia Kadela Rina Knight Kathleen and Patrick Laurie Kagann John and Janet Knobloch LaJeunesse Jan Kahl Maureen Knoernschild Dona Laketek Helene Lamarre Thomas Kakuska Kurt and Patricia Koch Maureen Kallen Regan and Vicki Koch Anna-Marie Lamb Robert and Lillian Kallus Loretta Kodatt Richard and Susan Lamb Sue Kirwin Kamm Grace Koehler James and Ursula Lambke Kenneth and Donna Kamyszek Diann and William Kohley Douglas and Rachel Lang Prudence Kapauan Bill and Jan Koloseike Barbara Langfeld and Trudy Theodora Karczewski Jerry Kolpa Wissing Rosemary Karl Stanley Kopala Cathy Larchey Carol Karvon Rosemarie Kosik Donna Larney Steve and Frances Kay Barbara Koth Fran and John LaRock Darlene Kazak Jim and Marilyn Kothmann Oscar and Rose Larson Mary Keenan Lois Kouba Betty Ann Latoza Gerald and Patricia Kellen Josephine Koutsky Marianne Layden Kathleen Kelley Carol Kowaleski Edward and Florence Lazzari Anne Kelly Marilynne and David Kowalski Patricia and Michael Leavy Withgrateful thanks Jerry and Charlotte Kelly Franklin and Isabella Kozelsky Colleen Kenney and Gary Noreen Kelly Sonia Kozlowski Ledvora Robert and Barbara Kelly Phyllis Kramer Joseph Ledvora Jack and Regina Kelzer Marlene Krawczyk Dianne Lee Patricia and Philip Kemp Janice M. Kreinbrink Paul and Eileen LeFort Mary Kenney William and Marie Krejci Mary and Robert Lein Mary Kent Rosemary Kretschmann Rev. Jim Lennon Dan and Barbara Kerins Edward Krische Catharine and Robert Lentz Michael and Terese Kerner John and Marie Kristofick Eileen Lestina Carol Keyes Joseph and Mary Krizanovic John Levock Michael and Gabrielle Kidney Patricia Krolik Susan and Howard Lewis Michael and Jane Kidney Frances Krueger James and Patrice Lia Vivian Kilzer Russell and Carolyn Krupicka Dee Liczwek Ann and Kyunghak Kim Ron and Betty Krupp Walter T. Liptak Patricia Kindl Therese Liu

12 With grateful thanks

Morrissey Alexandra MulcahyAlexandra Mulligan and Gisela Brian and Sarah Mulloy James Carol Mulvihill Allison Darlene Mungo Kurt and Melissa Miscinski Kurt and Melissa Mishel Leslie Eleanor Mitchell Patricia Mitlyng Tom and Kay Mizerk Joyce Mlyniec and Mary Mlynski Ann Dennis Modaff Robert and Jean Moeller Jean and Deacon John Mary Moen Orrin and Jean and Anna Marie Moncrief Bill Audrey Moore Nancy M. Moran Gayle and John Moravecek Daniel and Mary Mordini Nancy Morman Claude and Karen Morris Morris Robert and Regina Morrison Raymond Carol and and Georgiann Stephen Morrow and Eileen Edmund CPA & Heler Inc Moser Ken and Barbara Meyer Barbara Ken and Sherry Michaels Victoria Michalik AnthonySandra Michelin and The Family Michiels Trust Grace Michiels Marianne Miklas Mikuska Andrew and Pauline Mikuska Joseph Marianna Mikutis Millar Robert and Mary Therese Alicia Miller Charlotte Miller Miller Dolores Fred Miller Mills Helen David M. Misbrener

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Griffiths

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McParland Mehler McConaghy Ford McChristian Matecki Matejcak, Sr. John McNicholsJohn James Mary Claire and Daniel McQuaid and Janice McSweeney Louise and Pam Meeker Ralph and PatriciaRaymond Carol and David Mejdrich David Meyer and Rita Meyer Jeanne Fran McCormick Scott and Susan McDonald O. McDonaldThomas Mary Ethel McDonough and MaryPhillip McGovern McGovernTheresa McGueJulie Mary McLoud Ann McNamara Jane Carol Matusak Larraine Matusak Sharon Mays Mazur Julie McAvoy Joan and John Catherine McCarthy McCarthyRuth Jacqueline McCauley and Kathleen Brian Sandy McClenahan Kathleen and George Guy Cynthia and Masi M. Masi Lisa Anita Masters G. Masura Andrew Eleanore Mate Marianne Greg and and Mary Andrew Roberta Mathis Matlock Teresa

Donor acknowledgement continued acknowledgement Donor Marker Marchese Jim Martin Jim Mary Marosits Therese Mary MarquetteRose and Chris MartinJerome Jim Marks Jim CynthiaChris and Marler Carl and Mary Marker Anne and Richard Pamela Frank and Jeanette Frank and Jeanette Marik Joseph Maureen Maloney Maureen and EvelynJerry Mannion MarcelloCorinne Arlene Malloy Dorothy Maloney Kathleen M. Maloney Mary Lynch Maione and Joann Majewski Joseph Gerald and Carlyn Malik Gerry and Karen Maguire Mahowald Therese MaickeRuth John and Joanne Madigan Joanne and John “Little Italy”Maggiano’s Robert and Maria MacFarlane Maday Robert and Jeanne Mader and Pamela Thomas ~M ~ Mary MacekFrank and Rose Patrick and Barbara Lynch Barbara Patrick and Florence Lyons Francis Mary and Luzbetak PatrickBrother Lynch, CSC Lynch Anne Kevin and Jo John and Anna Mae Lukancic Anna Mae and John Carol Lukowski Luzbetak Ann Patricia Long Robert Lorr Luczak Donna Isobel Lobo Isobel Donor acknowledgement continued

~ N ~ Elizabeth O'Connor Margaret Patterson Nina O'Connor Christine Pawlak Mary Ann Naas Steve and Deb O'Connor Eugene and Patricia Pawlik Brian and Cindy Naberhaus Helen O'Day Carole Pawlikowski Ted and Marjorie Naegel Judith O'Hara Marita and Philip Peffley John Nania Charlene O'Keefe Mary Pellizzari Glen Narducci Brian and Carol O'Neill William and Rose Perry Dorothy Nasby Dorothy O'Reilly Christine Peterson Thomas and Anne Nash Martha O'Reilly Christopher Pett

John and Sharon Nasman Dennis and Bernadette Oblak Richard and Virginia Pevitts Maureen Naughton Rosemary Oddo Virginia Pfau Jeanette K. Nedelsky John and Laura Oller Patricia Pfeifer Carol Jamrog Nemchausky Julie A. Oloroso Rosemary Phillips Rev. M. Cyril Nemecek Michael Opalka Grace L. Picard Edward and Carolyn Nemergut Manny and Gloria Orden David and Deborah Bruce and Susan Neustrom John and Hazel Oreluk Pickering Rod and Mary Newsam Mary Ory Donna Piegore Rita Neylon Joe and Barb Ott Tony and Mary Pieranunzi Lori J. Nichols Michael and Donna Ozog Betty Pierce Diane Nilan Jim and Pat Pignatiello Mary Margaret Norman ~ P - Q ~ Charles Pipek Jerry Norton Robert and Janet Pircher Joseph Novak Lorraine Pachankis Dolores Pircon Linda and Richard Novak Gerald and Nancy Pajkos Jayne and Dennis Piscitelli

Withgrateful thanks John and Kathleen Novotny Robert and JoAnn Palmer Joan and Charles Pluchar Janice V Nowak Raul Palomo Edward and Maureen Mary Nunke Bernice Paluzzi Plucinski Harry and Marion Panka Gloria Pluta ~ O ~ Eileen Paque Bob and Dianne Pogwizd Ted and Mary Parks Rosanne and Joseph Polich Janet O'Brien Paula Partipilo Michael Pomorski Sharon and Edward O'Brien George and Denise Patera Alonso and Ireri Jeannette M. O'Connell Joan and Thomas PonceDeLeon Eleanor O'Connor Pattermann Joanne Porazinski

Words and lists cannot express adequately how very grateful the Sisters are for all our friends who give so freely to us. We are especially blessed by the generosity shown by Villa St. Benedict residents for our Chapel Flower Fund.

14 With grateful thanks

parishioners students Greg and LuciaGreg and Sellers L. SelvasEdward Trini Selvas Chuck Sener Sepeda Rose Mike and Katherine Serra Thomas and Judeen Schedler and Judeen Thomas BettyGreg and Scheet Mary Schiltz Francis Schima Sharon Schipiour Schmidt Donald and Joann Schmidt Hillard Ray and Shelly Schmidt Elizabeth Schmitt Catherine Schoellkopf Jack and Donna Schreiber Schulthesz Joan Kathleen Schulz and Sue Schumacher Bob Paula and Charles Schumacher Diane and Greg Schuster Schuur Christine and Thomas Schweitzer Eileen Scott Sharon Gregory Scriba and Kathy Carolyn Scutella Sefcik James Carl and Joan Segneri St. Elizabeth Seton Apostle the St. James and Lucia Sainz Felipe Marilyn Sak Richard Sako and Janice Salvato Joan Terry Sanders Sanza Paul and Rosemary Merri and Garry Sarchet Sarsany Thomas Saul Beckie Steve and Mary Sauriol Mike and Martha Savage Scarpellino Tom and Frances Schatzand Janet Thomas

15

Rychetsky Rymanowski Matthew and Frances Frances and Matthew Kevin and Jennifer ~ ~ S Sabados Chris and John Sacred Knanaya Heart Veronica S. Saeman Saflover Robert and Janet Maureen Vap Ruf Vap Maureen III B. Ruff Edward Ruh Mary and Thomas Frances Ruhaak Joyce and Bill Rungaitis JoAnne Mary and Runger John Margaret Ruppert Greta Rusk M. Russell Joan and Patricia Cornelius Ryan Marie Ryan Ryan Robert and Maureen Donald Rose and Janice Rosenbush Joanne Rosenquist Joellen Roth Margarete Warren and Rothermel and Noreen Charles Angie Rott Daniel and Elizabeth Rubel David Ruda and Pamela Elsie Rudman Tony and Margaret Rudnik and Sonja Rudny James Joseph Ritscherle Joseph Martha Robbins and Rosemary Robbs James Al Robinson and Sarah Rocuskie James and Ellen RodmanBruce Marianne Roenna Rog andEdward Pauline Stanley Rog Lori Rogalski Rongaus Jim Ronowski and Terese Dennis

Donor acknowledgement continued acknowledgement Donor SSC William and Betty Jr. Rigsby, John and Sharon Richter and John Marilyn and Glenn Riggs Patricia Riggs Sharlin Nasharr Reynolds Tom and Fran Rich Marion Richardson William and Teresa Ann Reid William and Teresa Reilly John Marion and Mary Reis Virginia Regula William and Sharon Rehder Cecelia Reher Marguerite Regan Marguerite Regis Rita and Jim Margaret Rea Roof PLUS Red David and Cynthia Reedy Albinus and Magdalen Raupp Albinus Georgiana Razniewski Ginny Rea Jack and Marilyn Radicker Radziwon B Barbara Dorothy and John Rapant ~~ R Radek Father James Jerry and NancyJerry Quigley Kathleen Quinn and John Dan and Ann Purtscher Patricia Putzbach PyrcikPaul and Robin Sister Mary June Puinshys, Sister Mary June FatherPurtell Thomas Judy and John Provenzano and John Judy Psenicka Susan and John Leo and Sue Poynton PrieboyAnna and Jean Prieboy Joseph Maureen and Eugene Poulin Eugene and Maureen Tom and Cindy Power Powers Rose and John T. Gerard Potter Sister Mary E. Potthast Donor acknowledgement continued

Thomas Shanley Jacqueline Snavely Susan and Marty Szczech Joseph and Michelle Shannon Elaine Snella Robert and Judy Szorc Annie Udovitsch Shaw Leslie Snydel Peter and Nancy Szymczyk Charlotte and Ernest Shaw Ellen Snyder Melanie M. Shead Mary Ellen Sobieraj ~ T ~ Jim Sheahan Rose and Leonard Sodergren Patricia Sheehan Fran Sojka Virginia Taglia Mary Kathryn Sheetz Chris and Liz Sokolowski Ted Tala Louise Shepard Dennis and Mary Ann Lorraine Talaga Susan Shih Sonnefeldt Ed and Shirley Talbot Helen Shimek Stanley Spera Jim and Lois Tallarovic Gary and Mary Shipp Vincent Spinosa Gene and Maria Tashjian Emerzia Shroba Cheryl Sporlein John and Patricia Taska Ferrell and Janice Shuck Judith Ann Squire Rosanne Taube Marie and Layton Shultz Janet Srail Ramon Tauizon Michael and Pamela Shuta St. Scholastica Mission House Joseph and Mary Taylor Thomas and Linda Joan and Roger Shutes Francie Stamate Irene Siebecker Walter F Stanton Teichgraeber Michael and Margie Siefert C. Ernest and Edith Stark Betty Thomas Alice Sima Cynthia Steiner Judith Becker Thomas Dale and Gail Simek Paul and Kathryn Stephen Linda Thomas Betty Sirek Jay and Mindy Sterns Rosalie Thomas Evelyn Sirinek Kathryn Stimetz Paul and Rita Thompson Arlene Sirovatka Geraldine Stockhausen Donna and James Timmer Sister Josephine Sincak Ivan and Linda Stodola Alice Tinnes Anna Skala Paul Stodola Cory S. Tintera Robert and Nancy Skrok Rudolf and Mary Strahl Jonathan and Monica Tischler J P and P A Skubick Strategic Learning Initiatives Frank and Callie Mae Tobolski Skyline Asset Management J Wayne Strittmatter Regina Tomal Marianne and Michael Imelda and Donald Strobel Mary Tomaso Slabenak Bob and Rosemary Stromberg Eva Tomsic

Withgrateful thanks John Slack Judi Strong Barry and Paula Tomsky Janet Slade Joseph and Jean Stubits Margaret Torbich Thomas and Mary Ann Sladek Frank and Beverly Studnick William Tousek Barbara and Edward Sloan Tom Sularz Geralyn M. Tracey Pamela J. Sloan Nancy Supena Traverso’s Restaurant George Sloane Walter and Joyce Sura Ed and Cheryl Trogdon Clare Slowik Albert Svec Therese Trojak Kathleen Slucas Edna Svec Gregory and Marla Turek Pete and Mary Sluka Daniel and Kathleen Swanson Rosemarie Turner William and Marie Sluka John and Bobbie Sweeney Joan and Joseph Turos Richard Smego Henry and Mary Swiersz Joseph Tuzzolino Mary Smith Jerome and Ellen Sychowski John Twarogal Raymond and Theresa Smith Oleh Sydor Linda and Timothy Tyrrell Dolores Smolen Arlene and Robert Sypniewski Gloria Tysl

16 With grateful thanks

Z ~

- McKee Wisnosky Hermenegildo and Adela Yu Hermenegildo Yurcus Kathleen and Ronald Zak Fred and Joanne Nancy Zak Miquela Zambrano Zaorski Joan Loretta Zderad Zeiler Barbara Zidlicky James Zigmond Father Kenneth Zigmond Theresa and John KarenSteve Zimmerman and Zuchowski Theresa and Roger Diane Zurbriggen Zwolinski and Barbara Bob Dennis and Rosemary and Dennis WitekFrances Catherine Wokas Mary Woodcock Anne Camille Woodward Worden William and Shirley Ann Wrenn Peter and Joan Dee Wrona Roy and Ana Wubker Wuellner Jane and Tom Wulffe and Annette Lawrence ~Y YackleyDonna Mari Yohannan

17

Church Supply Weber Weigel Theodore Wickord Wiczek Chester and Joan Rita Wiesbrook and Richard Wilmoth Janet and Nancy WinieckiJames Chuck and Fran Weiss WellerScott Jo and Mary Welsh Therese and Jean Ann Welty Joseph Joyce Wesolowski Frank and Lucy Whalen Gift and Wheaton Religious and PatBob Wheeler Marie WhiteAnna Whitnell and Marisa Jeff Marion Warner Warren Sisters Elaine Washek Karen Watson Michael and Michelle Webster Jane Don and Weglarz Bess Richard and Barbara Ed Weingartner Weir Jack and Jane Chris and DorothyChris and Walker Walker Debra and Susan Walker Germaine Sandra Wall Marie Wallinger William Walsh Mary Walz Ann Wandolowski Victoria Lorraine Ward Wardand Eileen Thomas Warden Nancy Bill and

We sincerely regret any omission or errors in acknowledgements. our errors or omission any regret We sincerely

V ~ Please call the Development Office (630.725.6013) with any questions or corrections. questions with any (630.725.6013) Office Development call the Please

- Donor acknowledgement continued acknowledgement Donor Wagner Melvin and Betty Melvin and Ann Tom and Mary Wagner Bruce and Irene Wachowski Bruce Edith and Richard Wagner Wagner Marie ~ ~ W Mary Wabiszewski Tom and Sue Votruba Kathleen Vogel and Joanne Vojahosky James Vopenka Helen Bernadette Viskocil Bernadette Carolyn Vitale and Sam Diane Vogel Marilyn Gerald and Viator David Vidican Villa St Benedict Steven and MarySteven Verdick Verwolf Nick and Carolyn Marilyn Veverka Patricia VanLeeuwen VargasLinda and Carlos Verbiscer Robert and Jean David Brook Van den Diana Vanderheyden Michael Vanhal and Patricia John and Aldona and Valicenti John Lois Vallino Eugenio and Carmen Valdes and Carmen Eugenio ValekPeter and Judy Valiant Bonnie Tony and Urban Anne Shirley Utley and Ronald Sue Vadovicky ~ U ~ U Volunteers at Sacred Heart Monastery The Sisters are blessed with many friends who volunteer their time and talent to assist us on our Board, and with our chapel and monastery needs. They enrich our lives each day by their presence. We are grateful, and say, Thank You.

Judy Arcy Jane Doyle Ron Jablonski Tom Norris Lynn Aument Meghan Doyle Charlotte Kelly Janice Nowak Toni Baumgartner Jean Elliott Jane King Janet O’Brien Marguerite Belval Helen Ercegovac Rina Knight Margarita Olivas Richard Belval Chris Fletcher Dick Lamb Lil Omana Ann Beranek Adrienne Forstneger Sue Lamb Tom Omana Ann Brennan Beena Francis Cathy Lentz Cindy Power Emily Brink Helen Giordano Jim Lia Tom Power Cathy Brummel Audry Girard Patrice Lia Mary Rammien Michael Budd Paul Girard Gerry Maguire St. Procopius monks Alana Cabal Carole Gravelle Arlene Malloy Hilliard Schmidt Carol Cain Jody Grimaldi Renata Maroum Tom Shanley Dr. Tom Callahan Gen Hadamik Jerry Martin Susan Shih Helena Chung Katie Hannon Ethel McDonough Clare Slowik Joan Costin Jean Hartman Louise McSweeney Diana Stolte Paul Curtin Ray Hartman Gary Menconi Rosanne Taube Estelle Dambach Beth Hemzacek Peggy Mersch Florence Terronez Vicky DeLeon Roger Huerter Fred Miller Jane Weir Rosemarie Devine Brian Jablonski Laura Norris Christine Welch

PLANNED GIVING By virtue of our listing in the Official Catholic Directory, the Treasury of the Benefits of making a Planned Gift, which include has ruled that wills, bequests, life insurance and other estate plans: contributions to the Sisters fully qualify for federal income, estate and gift tax deduction purposes as Provide a lasting tribute that offers ongoing provided within the law. support for the Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery. The legal title of our monastic Make a gift today without spending current community is: income or retirement resources. Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart Realize income tax and future estate tax Our FEIN is 36-2169170 advantages while providing for your heirs. Become a partner in ministry with the Sisters of Persons interested in making special Sacred Heart Monastery. gifts or bequests are asked to contact: Be remembered in the prayers of the Sisters each day. Development Office Sacred Heart Monastery The Sisters thank you for considering a bequest to 1910 Maple Ave. Lisle, IL 60532 the Benedictine Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery. 630 725-6013 [email protected]

18 Congratulations to Sister Anna!

Sister Anna Duong is completing her Masters degree in Clinical Psychology at Benedictine University! She is walking for graduation on June 2nd and will be counseling at Serenity House in Addison this summer to finish her clinical practice.

Sister Anna returns home to Vietnam in August. She is very grateful for your presence and prayers during her stay here in the United States. Our community will miss her gentle and joyful presence as we wish her all the best of God’s blessings.

Oblates of St. Benedict Oblates are women and men, married or single, who hunger for a deeper experience of God. Guided by the Rule of Benedict they find their lives enriched as they join others in prayer, lectio and work in the context of an extended community. Our Oblates meet on the third Sunday of each month at 2:30pm. For more information, please contact Sister Karen Nykiel, OSB at 630-725-6049 or at [email protected]

Spiritual Renewal

We welcome you to our colorful, spacious campus, and a sacred space called Sacred Heart Chapel for private prayer and daily Mass. Available for a short stay for quiet, reflective time, our guest house is located in the woods near St. Scholastica Cemetery.

You can meet us, share your story, we can tell you ours.

Should you be interested, call (630.750.6010), or email us at [email protected] for available guest house opportunities.

19 Queen of Heaven Monastery Sister Agnes Knapik, OSB

The 2017-18 catechetical year at Saints Peter and Paul Church ended with first-grader John Whittaker receiving the three Sacraments of Initiation - Baptism, Chrismation, and Eucharist. Barbara Begalla, fifth-grader, received her First Solemn Holy Communion.

Pictured (clockwise) at the May appreciation dinner are catechists Teresa Elbon, Betty Petrigalla, Sister Barbara Pavlik, OSB, catechetical coordinator, Rev. Simeon Sibenik, , Betty Zombar, Rosemary Finley, and Louann Hite.

Father Thom Dansak spoke on the topic of repentance and reconciliation at the Preparation for Easter Spirituality Day in February.

Sister Barbara Pavlik covers the food baskets she prepared for Easter. They were blessed by Father Simeon at church after Resurrection Matins. (Do you see the butter lambs?)

On May 5, the Archieparchial Office of Religious Education, directed by Sister Marion Dobos, OSB, presented its Fifteenth Annual Day of Reflection for Women entitled “Angels Build Bridges.” The presenters told their stories of compassion, service and support for those in need, motivating their listeners to look for opportunities to do the same. The proceeds from the Basket Benefit Auction were given to local women’s shelters.

20 Pictured left to right in the Infant of Prague Manor chapel, the oblates renewed their promises: Sister Agnes Knapik, Laura Cucaro, Elaine Vislosky, Ruth Ann Capito, Kathy Dew, Sister M. Martha Kacmarek, Rosemary Finley, and Sister Barbara Pavlik.

Here and There...in the spirit of hospitality

Lenten Reflection at Sacred Heart Monastery

In March, Charles Brummel, retired Humanities instructor at Benet Academy, delighted us with his knowledge and humor as he led us through a closer look at Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting The Last Supper. Charlie Brummel, with former Benet student Susie Shuma.

21 Each spring, the Sisters celebrate with their employees and volunteers, in thanks and appreciation. Here are a few of our guests from April 22nd ...

22 Kathy DiCristina welcoming Luke Fredrickson to show a PowerPoint of the process of Roofing renovating the roof of Villa St. Benedict and Sister Irene Jasien, blessing the roof project. Sacred Heart Monastery. Nearly 100 in attendance.

“O God, in Your wise providence You are glad to bless all human labor, the work of our hands and of our minds. Grant that all who plan to conduct business in these offices be guided with Your support.

May all who work in these offices greet one another and receive others as if they were Christ Himself. May our core Eric Shumaker holding values of Hospitality, Respect, Steward- the cross after the ship and Justice be the guiding force of blessing in Chapel on all our communication and decisions.” January 22, 2018. Blessing of the additional Administrative Offices.

A Blessing of the restored roof over Villa St. Benedict, Sacred Heart Monastery and the new Administration Offices.

“Almighty God, we ask your blessing upon this restoration project, its builders and its donors who helped Villa St. Benedict and Sacred Heart Monastery make this possible. As we bless this project with holy water, send your guardian angel, placed before this building, to bless us and all those who live and work here. May this project keep us safe from all water damage as we continue to minister to the needs of one another. The restored roof, cupola and cross on the roof of May we look kindly on all who enter. “ Villa St. Benedict and Sacred Heart Monastery. Lisle Benedictine Women Sacred Heart Monastery 1910 Maple Avenue Lisle, IL 60532-2164 (630) 725-6000 www.shmlisle.org

MISSION STATEMENT

The Corporate Mission of the Benedictine counter-cultural in the midst of global fear Sisters of the Sacred Heart is Hospitality. and mistrust. We are determined to create an Directed by the Gospel and the spirit of the environment of non-violence among Rule of Saint Benedict, the mission is based on ourselves that will allow our own members to a commitment to use time, talent and experience gentle warmth and reverence for resources of the Community for those in need. the gift each is to the community. We will create an atmosphere in which the stranger We, the Benedictine Sisters of Sacred Heart will be recognized as a guest - received as Monastery, Lisle, Illinois, proclaim hospitality Christ Himself - the gift of God among us. to be our corporate commitment. This mandate, found in the Hebrew scriptures, the We are willing to risk and model that Gospels, and reiterated by Benedict to be the strangers, coming together as friends, can cornerstone for our interaction with one nourish one another in the prayerful another (Rule of Benedict, Chapter 72) and our atmosphere of cenobitic community, can reception of strangers & guests (RB 53), is our share resources, can host and reverence the particular corporate response to the needs of other as sacred. In the act of "opening our this 21st century. door" to the other, we in fact open our hearts - emptying ourselves of ourselves. This will We are proclaiming our commitment to be our gift to those "who knock." With open hospitality as one significant way of being hands, we receive the gift they are to us.