2 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXII • Issue 5 Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS

Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s Letter

Dear Friends:

Lights, Camera . . . ¡Acción! Just in time for National Hispanic Month, students at Mary Help of Christians Academy are starting to use the brand new video production and distance learning lab donated by the Latino channel, Telemundo 47. That’s Principal Sr. Lise Parent on our cover, rehearsing with seniors. What an incredible resource, not to mention a very generous gift! ¡Gracias, Telemundo! See page 17.

Some news to report:

• Soon we will exercise our rights as citizens and vote for our next President. This is a pivotal election, and our Provincial Superior, Sr. Karen Dunn, explains the vital issue at stake. See page 13.

• God continues to bless our Order with vocations! Three new Sisters took their vows, and five new candidates have just begun the first step in the formation program. Our prayers and loving support go with them! See pages 4-5, and learn on page 6 how you can support their journeys.

• Javier Baldor, Chairman of the Salesian Sisters Partners Circle, has challenged us to extend invitations to new members. I personally invite you to join the rank of “Partners” with your investment in our unrestricted fund. See pages 9-11.

• Autumn brings two galas! On November 2, Mary Help’s “A Night in Old Havana” will be a “Night to Remember,” honoring Juan and Marta Gutierrez and Sr. Esther Cruz, all from Cuba. On November 10, the Thanksgiving Basket in Tampa took me, the honoree, by surprise! It will be my chance to offer gratitude to the city of my birth and the Salesian family for all they have given me. I hope to see YOU at both celebrations! Details at right.

As we anticipate Thanksgiving, I thank you most sincerely for your strong faith in us and for keeping us afloat with love, prayers, and generosity.

Peace,

Save the Dates!

Presented by the Dames of Mary Help

honoring Juan & Marta Gutierrezwith a special tribute to Sr. Esther Cruz, FMA

Friday, November 2, 2012Woodcliff Lake Hilton, Woodcliff Lake, NJ

Cocktails, Dinner, Silent and Live Auction.All proceeds benefit the Financial Aid Fund

at Mary Help of Christians Academy.For more information or to purchase tickets, please call Sr. Mary Rinaldi: (973) 904-0102

or e-mail [email protected].

The Thanksgiving Baskethonoring

Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA

Saturday, November 10, 2012Salesian Youth Center/

Boys & Girls Club, Tampa, FL

For more information and sponsorship opportunities, please call Theresa Anderson: (813) 205-3195.

Annual Christmas PartySunday, December 9, 2012

Mary Help of Christians AcademyNorth Haledon, NJ

Please support the Thanksgiving Basket by donating an item from our Wish List. Simply visit www.amazon.com, and search “Salesian Sisters Development” under “Wish Lists.” Thank you, and Happy Shopping!

Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org Partners in Giving • Autumn 2012 • 3

Making Headlines Around the Province

Our First Salesian “Flash Mob” is a Hit!

Talk about a BIG surprise! Battery Park at the tip of Manhattan, with a view of the Statue of Liberty, was the setting for a special treat in August for

our visiting Mother General, Mother Yvonne Reungoat (right). Following Mass with Cardinal Timothy Dolan at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Mother (superior of our worldwide Salesian Sisters’ Order) was given a tour of New York City. As she entered the park, a spontaneous “flash mob” erupted, with dozens of Salesian Sisters, students, alumni, and friends breaking into song and dance. It was a spectacular display of joy, and Mother was delighted!

To watch a video of the event, please visit our website, www.salesiansisters.org.


Making Vocation! Headlines Around the Province

On August 5, 2012, Sr. Merissa Loucks and I, Sr. Joo Yun Park, celebrated our first profession in the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of

Christians – the Salesian Sisters – in the company of our fellow Sisters and women in formation, family, and friends.

It was truly a beautiful day. After having suffered through weeks of nervousness, neither of us was sure we would be able to make it through the celebration without fainting! But as soon as we walked through the doors of St. Joseph’s Chapel in North Haledon, NJ, and saw the joy-filled faces of all the people who love and encouraged us throughout our years of formation, all our fears vanished and our hearts were filled with peace.

Many of our friends and family went through great lengths to be present to witness our consecration to God. Sr. Merissa’s family and friends drove all the way from Illinois. Among my guests were family members from California and parishioners from three Korean parishes. We were also honored with the presence of twelve priests, including Fr. Tom Dunne as the principal celebrant, and Fr. Angelus Croce and Fr. Gabriel Lee, my pastor, as the main con-celebrants.

Not only did we feel the blessings of God’s generous love through the people who shared this special day with us, we also felt His great love in the commitment we were making before all those present. Knowing that God has called us and that, through His grace, we were able to correspond

and publicly give our lives to Him, fill our hearts with so much gratitude.

As we go forth as newly professed, we also go forth with the assurance that the love of our heavenly Father will carry us through every step of the way as we strive every day to live

faithfully the commitment we made at our profession.

– Sr. Joo Yun Park, FMA

Jubilation As New Sisters Profess Vows

Above, Sr. Joo Yun Park with her parents,

Eal Wha and Yun Hee Park.

At left, Sr. Joo Yun receives her

Profession Cross from Sr. Karen

Dunn, Provincial Superior.

Sr. Merissa Loucks with her parents, Randy and Linda Loucks. At left, Sr. Merissa receives the Book of Constitutions

from Sr. Karen Dunn.


It is very often said that when you find your soul mate, “you just know,” and this is exactly what happened to Sr. Mary Jackson during a retreat in her adolescent

years. It’s almost as if it was the date of all dates, because that weekend in 1995 is when she met the love of her life.

One of the prayer activities during the retreat was Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in which the Eucharist was brought out to the students. At that moment, Sr. Mary automatically felt the truth, “God knows me and God loves me.” From that moment, she wanted to know more about God and wondered what it would be like to breathe, love, and live just for Him.

Sr. Mary learned about the Salesian Sisters and loved that Jesus in the Eucharist is their focus. She contacted them in 2000. In 2003, she entered the order and her engagement journey with Christ began. In 2006, she took her first vows as a Sister and, at that moment, she knew that she wanted to live her life dedicated to the Lord.

Sr. Mary went on to teach in Tampa, FL, at Villa Madonna School for five years and returned to Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ in 2011. She enjoys teaching and being with the young. Sr. Mary is now Director of Admissions for Mary Help as well as Vice Principal for grades 6-9 where the students always find her door open.

On August 5, it was all made official as Sr. Mary Jackson of Corning, NY professed her perpetual vows in Mary Help’s chapel. Here she professed her eternal love for the Lord in front of all her friends and family.

Sr. Mary was completely overcome with joy as she thought to herself, “I feel like I’ve been given true freedom, belonging to God, belonging to God forever.”

When asked her current take on life after such a wonderful union, Sr. Mary replied, “It feels like I am living out what God meant me to be. I am truly living life to the fullest.”

– Elifer Gutiérrez

Photos by Lorraine CorsaLe

At top, a jubilant Sr. Mary Jackson greets Sr. Karen Dunn, Provincial Superior.

Above, Sr. Mary kneels before Fr. Jim Heuser and receives a blessing.

Below, Sr. Mary brings up the gifts of bread and wine with her parents, Barbara and Andrew Jackson. Sr. Mary carries a photograph of her recently deceased

and beloved twin brother, Michael.


Please Help Our Future Salesian Sisters!

Here’s the Good News: In today’s cluttered, noisy and busy world, young women are hearing God’s

call and responding to it generously! We are witnessing enthusiasm and joy as our Candidates (step 1), Postulants (step 2), and Novices (step 3) travel their formation journeys to become Salesian Sisters! There are 24 young women presently in formation, ensuring a bright future for our Order and its mission, especially in the education of children.

“The finest young women the Church has to offer are feeling and answering this deep call from Christ,” says Sr. Colleen Clair, Vocations Director.

Now here’s the Challenging News: We need financial assistance as we house, form, and educate these young women

in their four years of preparation. Our expenses – $18,000 per year per person, covering tuition, room and board, and insurance – are great, but the rewards are much greater! Financial hardship must NOT stand in the way of their call!

Please help us. Your gift for the new “Bride of Christ” is much needed. In turn, these young women keep you in prayer, especially during daily Mass.

Please send a gift today, with the coupon below. Thank you, and God bless you!

It costs $18,000 per candidate per year for four years

to cover tuition, room and board, and insurance.

Please Help Our Future Salesian Sisters!


In the history of the Academy Awards, who’s known for giving the shortest acceptance speech?

That’s right, it was Joe Pesci! The Salesian Sisters of North Haledon, NJ were able to visit and hear that speech in the comfort of his living room. Not only did we hear the speech, but we were able to hold the Academy Award he had won as well!

It all happened on September 16 when Joe invited his family and friends over with the Salesian Sisters to enjoy a pasta and meatball dinner while spending quality time together. This was his second invitation to the Sisters, and he feels blessed for their presence in his life. He demonstrated his appreciation for them by taking them on not one, but two boat rides!

This is the kind of generosity which Joe feels compelled to share. It was a wonderful day. Thank you and God bless you, Joe!

– Sr. Juilett Perez, FMA

The Sisters enjoyed their second visit to the home of their good friend Joe Pesci, where the actor shared his Oscar (above) and his wonderful family (below).



Sr. Maria Luisa Miranda, FMA, General Councilor of the Salesian Sisters in Rome, Italy, made visits to all of the Salesian schools in Florida in September.

At Villa Madonna School in Tampa, the morning started with the children having a special welcome for Sr. Maria Luisa, and her wishing them well as the main part of the Salesian Family.

From there, Sr. Maria Luisa met and greeted representatives from some Salesian Groups: Partners Circle Board Members, Salesian Youth Center Board Members, the Southern Dames, Past Pupils of Villa Madonna School, Parents, staff, and friends. Sr. Maria Luisa took the time to present the Charter of the Salesian Family, which focuses on what it means to be a Salesian.

The afternoon brought about a meeting for the faculty of Villa Madonna. Sr. Maria Luisa delivered the inspirational message of not giving up on education. She left with the words: “Always have faith that the seed you are planting will grow, either now or later.”

We hope you will visit us again Sr. Maria Luisa!


Sr. Maria Luisa Miranda, General Councilor for the Salesian Family, greets the students of Villa Madonna School

during her Florida visit.

Below, Sr. Maria Luisa learned about the dynamic history of Villa Madonna from two alumnae,

Rosemary Telese and Isabel Pita.

The Partners Circle was founded in 1991 to provide unrestricted funds for urgent needs of the Salesian Sisters and their mission. These include support for capital needs, scholarship assistance,

technology upgrades, and funds for those unforeseen situations that require immediate attention. Your annual contribution to this fund empowers the Sisters to continue their mission: To Provide Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and to the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life.

There are nine levels of membership, starting at $500, and are listed on these three pages.

Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group in this, our 21st Year?

Please call us today: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you!

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Partners Circle “Stewards” Annual gift of $10,000

Robert R. Waitts Foundation

new YorkThe Sabatine Foundation,

in memory of

FloridaMr. & Mrs. Anthony Ekonomou

new JerSeYMarcalus Family Foundation

Philip & Josephine Sabatine

texaSMr. & Mrs. Fritz Duda, Sr.

Mrs. Betty Turner

Welcome

21new Members

so far in

2012! Shown in RED

Dorothy Thomas Foundation

illinoiSMr. & Mrs. Larry Peterson

indiana Mrs. Beatrice Lightfoot

new JerSeY Tony Amato Family

Joseph J. McAleer, Sr., Heritage Society Major Bequests

CaliFornia Richard Meissner,

Meissner Manufacturing

FloridaDr. & Mrs. Vincent Bagli

Mr. Ray CampoMr. & Mrs. Joseph Garcia

Angel Oliva FamilyMrs. Ann Murphey

The Carini FamilyMr. & Mrs. Joseph Hoffman

Mr. Anthony PetrocelliMs. Roberta Ruocco

Ms. Celeste Tripi

new YorkMrs. Pearl Kalikow

Partners Circle “Visionaries” Annual gift of $25,000

new JerSeYIn memory of Mr. & Mrs. C.H. Church, Jr.

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CaliForniaMrs. Maryann Roman

ConneCtiCutMr. & Mrs. Pete BarnaMr. Michael Guarnieri

Dr. Joseph McAleer

FloridaMrs. Janis BoydDr. Idalia Lastra

Mr. Fredy Padovan

new JerSeYMr. & Mrs. John Connors

Mr. Anthony GulinoMs. Ida Gulino

Ms. Nancy GulinoMr. & Mrs. Donald HoffmanMr. & Mrs. Joseph LaudoneMr. & Mrs. Joseph Massood

Mr. & Mrs. Michael MassoodKathleen & Vic MedoreMs. Antonia P. Meola

Mrs. Moira McBride MurphyMr. Stephen Papetti

Ms. Rose Perone

new YorkMs. Jordon Carroll

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala, Jr.

PennSYlvaniaA Friend

South CarolinaMr. & Mrs. Tom Aldinger

MaSSaChuSettSMr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair

new JerSeYMrs. Rosemarie D’Alessandro

Mr. Alfonso DaloisioMrs. Rose Festa

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Laino

Mr. & Mrs. Dale LiviMr. & Mrs. Brian McAuley Mr. & Mrs. Mario Monaco

Mrs. Diva MullerWeaver Marine Agencies

new YorkMs. Lea Battiato

Mr. & Mrs. James Dell’OrtoMr. & Mrs. John W. Lombardi

Msgr. William T. RodgersThe Sabatine Foundation

PennSYlvaniaAllyson & Kevin Hardy

In Loving Memory of Sr. Adeline Salvetti

arizonaA Friend

CaliForniaGeraldine & Joanne Rizzuto

ConneCtiCutMr. & Mrs. Peter Christiansen

Ms. Mary GaineMrs. Suzanne Kremheller

Mr. & Mrs. David McAleer

FloridaMr. & Mrs. Joseph W. Clark

Dr. & Mrs. Rod JuradoMr. & Mrs. H. Tyson Lykes, II

Mr. & Mrs. Jim MajorFrank & Pat Middendorf

Mr. David MurpheyJohn & Lydia Oliva

Mr. & Mrs. Gene PerezHon. Judge & Mrs.

A. Rodnite

GeorGiaMr. Robert Reiter

Partners Circle “Benefactors” Annual gift of $1,000

Partners Circle

“Founders”Annual gift of $2,000

Partners Circle “Partners”Annual gift of $5,000

FloridaMr. & Mrs. James Millar

MiSSouriMarianne O’Doherty

new JerSeYMr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis Mr. & Mrs. Robert HarkinsMr. & Mrs. Bill McLaughlinMr. & Mrs. Joseph PfeiferMr. & Mrs. Rodger RohdeMr. & Mrs. Joseph Weiner

new YorkMr. Anthony J. Carroll

Mr. John Cassara

ConneCtiCutA Friend

PennSYlvaniaMr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow

FloridaMr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor

OUR MISSION: The Partners Circle provides Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters ...

Partners Circle

“Friends”Annual gift of $3,000

louiSianaMr. John Keller

MaSSaChuSettSMs. Patti Gauthier

Ms. Josephine PetrilloMr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading

new JerSeYDr. Tiziana Anello

Mr. & Mrs. Gary BaccaroMs. Bernice Bednarz

Larry & Mary Anne ConditDr. & Mrs. Frank De Maria

Ms. Debi DebiakDr. & Mrs. Louis GambettaMr. & Mrs. Jerry Giamonco

Captain & Mrs. Victor Goldberg Mrs. Teresa Gutto

Mr. & Mrs. Charles LechnerMr. & Mrs. Michael Losurdo, Sr.

Ms. Laura MannarinoMr. & Mrs. Anthony Marangi

arizonaA Friend

CaliForniaMr. Ian H. GrahamMr. & Mrs. Robert

ObenbergerA Friend

ConneCtiCutMr. & Mrs. Edward Goin

Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. MoseyA Friend

Anonymous

FloridaKenneth & Pilar Alonso

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Bernardo F. ArenasMr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Sr.

Mr. & Mrs. Carlos A. Baldor, Jr.Bianco & Mansfield, P.A.

Mr. James J. BurrowesMrs. Yoli Buss

Dr. & Mrs. Robert CanoMr. & Mrs. Joseph Capitano, Sr.

Mrs. Trudy CareyDr. & Mrs. Antonio Castro

Mr. James J. DeignanMr. & Mrs. J.C. De Lotto

Dr. & Mrs. Emilio EchevarriaDrs. Andrea & Sean Farrier

Mr. & Mrs. Luis GarciaMrs. Rose Graziano

Mrs. Elsa Gutierrez-Janulionis Mr. & Mrs. James W. Lee

Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. ReynoldsMr. & Mrs. Rene Rodriguez

Mr. & Mrs. Rick RussoHon. Judge & Mrs.E.J. Salcines

Mrs. Peggy Jones TheisMr. Joseph Tomaino

Mr. & Mrs. Ron YatesMr. & Mrs. Rene Zarate

GeorGiaMr. & Mrs. Charles Fantauzza

illinoiSJoseph & Adelaide Olivieri

Mrs. Christine PeragalloMrs. Ann Petrocelli

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph PiotrowskiMr. & Mrs. Cameron ReidMrs. Amanda Rodriguez

Mr. & Mrs. John SoldoveriMr. & Mrs. William Stuart

TD Bank

new YorkMichael & Jeanette Altamura

Mr. & Mrs. Jack BetwardaMr. Charles Brown

Kevin & Kathy ClairMrs. Rose Mary Clair

Terence & Patricia ClairMr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio, Jr.Ms. Claire Dell

Ms. Maria Rinaldi GasparroMr. Joseph Hill

Mr. Walter LazarcheckMs. Carol Martindale

Ms. Elizabeth NardoneMrs. Joan Oliver

Mr. & Mrs. Angelo SilveriMr. & Mrs. John Weaver

A Friend

north CarolinaMr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard

Mr. Chester F. Michewicz, Jr.

ohioMr. & Mrs. Dan Clair

PennSYlvaniaMr. & Mrs. David FusacchiaMr. & Mrs. Jack Hedgecock

Mr. Paul I. Sheaffer, II

South CarolinaAnonymous

texaSMr. & Mrs. Bill Locklier

virGiniaMrs. Dominique FaustMr. Michael Maurer

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Annual gift of $500

Partners Circle

“Associates” Annual gift of $750

FloridaMr. Declan Mansfield

Fred & Anne MichaelsMr. & Mrs. Mark Spada

new JerSeYMr. Anthony B. Della Cerra

Mr. & Mrs. Edward KornMr. & Mrs. Dominic Stimola

new YorkMrs. Helen Leahy

Mr. John Lombardi & Family

... and to the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life.


• •GIVE US THIS

Day

Please reserve this day/these days in 2012 or 2013in honor of my special intention to support the Endowment for the St. Joseph Provincial Center for our Retired Sisters:

Day 1 (Month, day): Significance:



Total enclosed@ $100 per day: $ ____________

Please make yourcheck payable to:Salesian Sisters

Name

Address

Telephone

Please Help Our Retired Sisters In Need!

Please detach & mail this form in the enclosed envelope. Thank you!

We Give Thanks for Your Special Day

Do you have a happy occasion you would like to share? The Salesian Sisters will celebrate with you for an

entire month. Is it a time to celebrate a less-than-happy occasion? Our prayer for 30 days will celebrate this event in your life. Have you someone to thank? All of us will help multiply this gratitude to that special person. Is there a special person or event to bring to the attention of your friends?

Then please “Give Us This Special Day”! Any event, person, or situation that merits special attention will be publicized on a bulletin board outside our chapel. The Sisters will pray for that intention and for the person who requests prayers for the day. Our Lord has assured us, “Where two or three are gathered in My Name, I am among them.” What better assurance can we have than the Word of God?

Let this exchange of time be an example of our concern and love for one another. Enjoy the fall season with its

colors and celebrations. Enjoy Thanksgiving knowing that you are special to us and our prayers rise daily for you and your dear ones. Thank you, and God bless you!

Admirers of the Salesian Sisters come in all ages and sizes! Ruthann Lanni and her daughter visit with 2012 Jubilarian, Sr. Eileen Tickner.


The story of the lost wallet in our last issue highlighted St. John Bosco’s ability to take in and act on all the good in the world around

him. However, this same Don Bosco was also alert to the dangerous trends of his time and was a powerful voice against them. At a moment when the Catholic Church as an institution and as a people were imperiled by social, religious, or political turmoil, Don Bosco used every means to defend the Church, to protect truth, and prevent the population from being swept away by erroneous or distorted philosophies. He took to the press, writing prolifically and filling the region with his famous periodical called the “Catholic Readings.” He was also found in civil and ecclesial offices defending what was true and what he loved.

One of the challenges we face in our times is the mounting pressure to separate God from life, including from the public arena. Under the guise of “tolerance” and “political correctness,” God has been pushed out from public events. Gradually, we have become shy and apologetic about our faith. At times, we have allowed ourselves to be intimidated or muted in expressing our faith and convictions. Those going public with beliefs that are counter to media-dominated trends run the risk of being taken for extremists. And on state and local levels, people of many faiths have been threatened by laws in giving service to others.

This erosion of our religious freedom has reached an unprecedented level in the new mandate from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under the Affordable Care Act (also known as “Obamacare”). In the HHS Mandate, our right to live our faith in service to others is endangered. The mission of many Catholics and Catholic employers is threatened by forcing them to dispense or pay for products and services related to contraception, sterilization, and abortion-inducing drugs in clear violation of the teachings of the Catholic Church.

In April, the Catholic Bishops of the U.S. released one of their most important statements in years, entitled “Our First, Most Cherished Liberty.” In it,

the Bishops denounce the Mandate’s requirement as a blatant violation of religious freedom. They raise a call to action that no committed Catholic can ignore. Offering a compelling defense of religious freedom in our country, they document the writings of our nation’s Founders in their embrace of religion as an essential condition of a free and democratic society. The ability to pursue our relationship with God is a natural right, and the United States Constitution was established to protect that right.

The problem with this Mandate, the Bishops assert, is not a Catholic question – it is an American question.

As Archbishop Charles Chaput of Philadelphia puts it, “Any attempt to suppress our right to worship, to preach, teach, practice, organize, and peacefully engage society because of our belief in God, is an attack not only on the cornerstone of human dignity, but also on the nature of the American experiment.”

Like any freedom, religious liberty requires constant vigilance and protection or it will disappear. And so the Bishops have spoken out. They have called on Catholics, as individual and parishes, to pray and reflect on the defense of our first freedom.

Prayer and voices are still called for as America moves closer to November 6, Election Day. We can echo Cardinal Timothy Dolan’s recent prayer on the stage of the Democratic and Republican National Conventions that “all Americans choose wisely as we consider the future course of public policy.”

Taking from Don Bosco’s legacy, we can be encouraged by the voices of our Bishops. We can speak and act against this dangerous trend of violation of our Constitutional rights. We can become publicly bold in the expression of our faith and in its defense. We must pray, think, write, and act in protection of the future for the new generations. As Americans, as sons, daughters, and friends of St. John Bosco – as a Salesian Family – we can do no less.

Our Most Cherished FreedomSr. Karen Dunn’s Letter

“As Election Day approaches, we must pray,

think, write, and act in defense of freedom.”


You can honor a cherished relative or friend with an everlasting gift of love – a memorial.

Our Partners in Giving Memorials & Tributes give you the opportunity to comfort those who have lost a loved one or to commemorate a special occasion.

This gift lives forever. It joins your loved ones to the prayers of we Salesian Sisters and supports our good works.

The name of your loved one will appear in our Partners in Giving magazine – a priceless gift to those you love.

Give the gift that lasts forever.

Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of:

____ $25 ____ $20 ____$15 $

Memorial for

Tribute for

Occasion

Please send an acknowledgement to:

Name

Address

My Name

Address

Detach & mail to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi

659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS

Name – DECEASED

Name – LIVING

A LoveThat Lasts

Forever Sam MortellaroThe Mortellaro & Lesko

Families

Nesmer CalzolariMr. Robert Sisti

Ernest DeSayeMr. & Mrs. Jeff Quinn

James FitzpatrickMr. & Mrs. Jeff Quinn

Gladys HayesMrs. Joan Alexander

Mana IngleseMr. & Mrs. Alfred Durante

Joseph KennyMr. & Mrs. Robert F.

Hevey, Jr.

Mauro LoScialeMrs. Rachel LoSciale

Irene O’SullivanMr. & Mrs. Jeff Quinn

Patricia M. PeakeMs. Rosemary Johns

Bill SciscenteMrs. Rose Ann Sciscente

Zelirda SosaMrs. Alice White

MemorialsReceived between August 2 and September 26, 2012

Dr. Eugene TolomeoMr. & Mrs. Paul Simonelli

John L. & Grace P. Soldoveri Foundation, Inc.

A. Coletti & W. PerryEdith Simonelli

Sr. Antoinette Cedrone, FMA & Sr. Grace Ruiz, FMA

Mr. & Mrs. Felix Rendina

Judy WiemanMr. & Dr. David Dybell

TributesReceived between August 2 and September 26, 2012

You may now adopt a Salesian Sister to pray

for your deceased family member or friend for one year. It is a one-time gift; the suggested donation is $160. Adoption forms are posted online at: www.salesiansisters.org, or please call us, toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS.


- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Yes! I Would Like to Adopt A Salesian Sister!

Name: __________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address: ____________________________________________________ City, State, Zip: ______________________

Phone: ___________________ Email: ___________________ Birthdate (mm/dd/yy): _____/_____/_____

This adoption is a gift. (Please write the recipients information below)

Name: __________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address: ____________________________________________________ City, State, Zip: ______________________

Phone: ___________________ Email: ___________________ Birthdate (mm/dd/yy): _____/_____/_____

Card Number: _________________________________________________ Expiration: ______________________

Signature: ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Please used

the enclosed

envelope.

Enclosed is my yearly gift of:

$ 260.00 $ 160.00 $ 500.00 Other $______

Enclosed is my quarterly gift of:

$ 65.00 $ 40.00 $ 125.00 Other $______

Donation by:Check (Make check payable to Salesian Sisters.)

Mastercard Discover VISA American Express

News from Adopters Like You!

Sr. Mary Rinaldi had a wonderful visit from her Adopter, Nancy Poling of

Westlake Villiage, CA and her sister, Sharon. Nancy brought incredible photos of a colorful California sunset! No wonder it’s called the Golden State!


Salesian Youth Report

ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL, HAWTHORNE, NJ – On September 15, St. Anthony’s celebrated the beginning of its 100th anniversary year with a Kick-Off Picnic. Sr. Marisa DeRose, Principal, began the festivities by ringing the old school bell and cutting the cake alongside alumni Jack Elwood (Class of 1938) and St. Anthony himself! Provincial Sr. Karen Dunn and past principal Sr. Betty Ann Martinez joined the 600 alumni, students, and parishioners in attendance. Congratulations!

CORPUS CHRISTI-HOLY ROSARY SCHOOL, PORT CHESTER, NY – Corpus Christi-Holy Rosary School hosted its third annual “Lifesavers” summer camp August 6-17. The camp is gaining popularity in the area and drew its largest attendance to date. Pictured above is “ Coach” Davon Faison with three of our campers on the Island Beach Ferry in Greenwich, CT, on a donor-sponsored “ Beach Day.” As you can see from the smiles on their faces, fun was had by all! Thank you to all our friends and supporters who made this camp possible for Port Chester’s children. God bless you!



Upon walking into the new studio at Mary Help of Christians Academy in

North Haledon NJ, seniors Allison Chicoma, Sophia Hamade, and Maria Jordan could not help but gasp in awe as they saw the video production and distance learning lab donated by Latino channel Telemundo 47. “I can’t believe this is here during our senior year!” exclaimed Allison to her principal, Sr. Lise Parent, who could not be more pleased. The studio is fully equipped to produce the live morning broadcasts, including the “Good morning,” prayers, the Pledge of Allegiance, and announcements.

Mary Help has Thomas Hauer, its IT engineer, to thank. Last year, Thomas, a member of St. Anthony Parish in Hawthorne, NJ, spoke to a fellow parishioner, Mike Polzer, about the need to upgrade the school’s video production program. Mike works for Telemundo, and took it from there, arranging the donation of a complete studio set with $30,000 in equipment. Incredible! Not only will the students receive a good learning experience as they produce and edit their own projects, but they will also have a great advantage as they enter college next year. Advanced training in media production and editing are essential for any communications student.

The video production and distance learning lab will officially open in time for Hispanic Heritage Month, in gratitude to one of the first Latino channels in the New York metropolitan area. Now the seniors of Mary Help will also act as pioneers in pre-collegiate media studies at the Academy. ¡Gracias, Telemundo!

– Elifer Gutiérrez

Lights! Camera! Action! ¡Acción!

Mary Help Senior Maria Jordan films Allison Chicoma and Sophia Hamade as they join their Principal, Sr. Lise Parent, for a rehearsal in the new video production

and distance learning lab, donated by Latino channel Telemundo 47.

ACADEMY OF OUR LADY HIGH SCHOOL, MARRERO, LA – Freshman Christi Soemer-Trauth gets pinned by her “big sister,” senior Alexis DeSalvo, at the Freshmen Pinning Ceremony held at the Academy of Our Lady on September 7. The Big Sis-Lil Sis program creates a bond of sisterhood between the classes and gives freshmen a senior mentor to guide them through their first year of high school.



ST. JOHN NEUMANN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL, NAPLES, FL – Sound the horns! With the opening of the new Justin Holecek Student Life Center, Neumann High will be introducing a music curriculum complete with a Band course, Music Technology course, Chorus, and Celtic Pep Band. Great news!

MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – Mary Help’s alumnae ended their summer at their alma mater enjoying a picnic and pool time with friends and family. It was a party that Sr. Rosalie Di Peri, much-loved past Principal and Dean of Resident Students, and these happy alumnae weren’t going to miss!

MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – It’s a brand new school year, and as part of the freshman orientation Mary Help hosted a pizza and pool party. Sr. Mary Jackson joined students in the fun. Welcome, girls!


The Joy of Teaching in a Salesian School

“Good morning!” A half awake, half asleep “good morning” reaches

my ears. Yet no matter what the response is, I keep on smiling because it’s another day lived side-by-side with the young.

The locker room fills up quickly, and little by little the sound starts to elevate. “I love these girls,” I think to myself. Even though I am no longer teaching, I am still a Salesian Sister and the joy of being an educator still burns in my heart. I loved the 48 years I spent in the classroom. However, now I get other opportunities to spread Jesus’ love to the young.

I continue greeting the young women who attend Mary Help of Christians Academy, until the last one opens her locker, changes into her uniform shoes, grabs her books, and runs to homeroom before the bell rings. . .

It is 10:45 a.m. and the students start getting in line for lunch. Laughter breaks out, conversations commence, and tables fill up quickly. As I walk from table to table, I try to share a good word with the young women at our school. They love it because they know I care for them.

St. John Bosco is known for saying that it is not enough to love the young; they must know that they are loved. By my daily presence among them and my encouraging words, I believe the young know that I love them. I wish the students a good afternoon, and the joy of being with them continues to put a smile on my face.

A few months ago I discovered I had been baptized “The Pizza Sister.” What?! You see, every day after

school I sell snacks and pizza to the students. As the girls walk by, I shout out, “Pizza! Pizza!” I hope the girls

purchase food, since I know many of them still have a whole afternoon of sports and homework in front of them.

“C’mon, Blue Jays!!!” I try to make it to as many sports games as possible. l. I can’t help it but cheer them on. This is another opportunity in which I share in the joy of being with the young. Watching the games with my Sisters also gives us time to bond.

As I continue cheering, I reminisce

of my years at Villa Madonna School. I used to coach the cheerleaders. What a great time we had! I didn’t really know what I was doing, so I put one of the girls in charge and she led us to many victories. This is just a minuscule example of the genius of Don Bosco, who wanted the young to become apostles and leaders among their own peers.

These are the moments I share in the joy of evangelization through loving-kindness. I pray that my daily presence may help the young feel they matter and know they are loved.

As St. Mary Mazzarello once said, “I feel I must tell you that there has always been peace and cheerfulness here along with good will on the part of everyone to become holy, and I thank God for this.”

– Sr. Mary Bertha Paquin, FMA

Students Love “The Pizza Sister”

“St. John Bosco said it is not enough to love the young; they must know

that they are loved.”

Sr. Mary Bertha Paquin, a.k.a. “The Pizza Sister,” loves spending time with studentsat Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ.



A Catholic “Disneyland” in Illinois!

Four Salesian Sisters arrived on the campus of the University of Illinois on August 6,

packaged in a van and ready to start their second year of ministry at St. John’s Catholic Newman Center: Sr. Loretta DeDomemicis, Sr. Mary Arciga, Sr. Theresa Lee, and me, Sr. Maryann Schaefer. The fire of excitement and love for youth was burning brightly, and we were ready to meet the Resident Assistants and prepare ourselves for early move-in, scheduled for the following week.

Move-in arrivals and smiles, music and lots of “Sun” shines greet the new freshmen and the returnees. “Welcome home” signs and greetings go out to each resident and their families. Parents looked on in astonishment, as nothing like this had ever been experienced by them. Comments such as: “You have Sisters here and they are in habit. I’m at peace that this is the right place for my daughter. This is wonderful!”

Wait! Am I dreaming? This is a secular university campus. No dream, whatsoever! This is the reality of St. John’s Catholic Newman Center.

The Newman Center’s nickname is “Catholic Disneyland.” Why? Maybe because it is joy-filled and overflowing with activities! Daily events occur, spurred on by the residents them-selves, and the Sisters are in the midst of each celebration. There are Rosaries being prayed at 10:30 p.m., Masses at 9 p.m., daily Eucharistic Adoration, a chapel open to the residents 24/7, bonfires, barbecues, Bible studies, retreats, talent shows – young people on fire with their faith and searching for what mission God is leading them towards. Joining us are three priests, who are Spirit-filled;

and Catholic “Illini” (young men and women) following their educational tracks and feeding the faith instilled in them from their parents and parishes.

The year kicked off with a Freshmen retreat, organized by sophomore leaders with Sr. Loretta as their guide. It was an overnight experience at St. Mary’s Church in Pesotum – virtually in the middle of nowhere in the cornfields. We knew the Devil did not want this event to happen, when one of the vans we were to use was found with no brakes. But in the true spirit of generosity, the Catholic

Illini stepped up to help transport the 95 team members and participants to St. Mary’s. God prevailed and all had a great spiritual event that set the freshmen aflame with great involvement in Newman already.

Our community gathers for prayer and relaxation and spontaneous, as well as planned activities with the young, from RCIA to the donut ministry after Sunday Masses. Truly, you could say that there’s never a dull moment. “Catholic Disneyland” made to order! And Catholic Illini who love their faith and want to spread it.

– Sr. Maryann Schaefer, FMA

Newman Center students – “Illini” – organized a Sandwich Ministry with the Knights of Columbus (above); helped to move in returning students with Sr. Theresa Lee (left);

and had a ball at a barbecue retreat with Sr. Loretta DeDomenicis (below).


IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, MIAMI, FL – On September 15, the Salesian Sisters of Miami launched the Salesian Youth Oratory program at St. John Bosco Parish. The Oratory will run three times a month and provide students in grades 8-11 “a fun and safe place to gather with their friends,” says Sr. Teresa Gutierrez. St. John Bosco has made available their parish hall, which is a large open space, for the Sisters to use. The Oratory provides something for everyone – crafts, board games, electronic games, music, and snacks help to ensure a good time is had by all. At the conclusion, those attending are encouraged to join the Sisters for the 5 p.m. Mass and then have pizza. One Oratory a month, those attending will be taken over to Immaculata-La Salle High where an Oratory Club made up of ILS students will help run the program using the school’s gym, field, kayaks and other facilities to provide a unique Salesian experience. The Oratory is sure to be a success, and the Sisters are confident it will grow to their goal of 100 youth very quickly!


Sr. Marisol Guzman spent most of the Oratory playing Xbox Kinetc with the children!

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION SCHOOL, MARRERO, LA – Teacher Peggy Dragicevic and teacher’s aide, Dixie Boudreaux, celebrated Mary, the Blessed Mother’s Birthday on September 8 with their Pre-K 3 class. The students made flowers and brought them to the Mary statue in the ICS courtyard (above). Afterwards, the students spent a moment outside with Mary to share birthday cupcakes (below).

Sr. Teresa Guiterrez is learning a new game from a couple of Oratory girls.


Look! There’s My Salesian Sister!NEW JERSEY

St. Joseph Provincial Center& Provincial Offices655 Belmont Avenue

Haledon, NJ 07508-2301Telephone: (973) 790-7966

Website: www.salesiansisters.orgSr. Karen Dunn, Provincial Superior

Sr. Antoinette Cedrone, Provincial Secretary

Sr. Margaret Wilhelm,Provincial Treasurer

Sr. Pauline Joss, SuperiorSr. Catherine Altamura

Sr. Dora AdamesSr. Lucy Balistrieri

Sr. Mary BaroniSr. Amelia Callegarin

Sr. Esther CruzSr. Antonia CvetkoSr. Rufina DelgadoSr. Virginia DickeySr. Rosalie Di PeriSr. Anita DurocherSr. Frances Gumino

Sr. Emilia KassabSr. Balbina LopezSr. Merissa Loucks

Sr. Inez MolanoSr. Catherine NovoSr. Mary PalladinoSr. Mary PellicioneSr. Louise PasseroSr. Claire Perino

Sr. Jeanette PuglisiSr. Anna RagognaSr. Arlene Rubino

Sr. Grace RuizSr. Livia Setti

Sr. Ruth SteckerSr. Judith Suprys

Sr. Carmela TermineSr. Mary Terzo

Sr. Mary WinterscheidtSr. Patricia Winterscheidt

Sr. Mildred ZanettiSr. Mary Ann Zito

St. Mary Mazzarello Convent23000 53rd St. SW Naples, FL 34116

Telephone: (239) 348-2911 Website:

www.sjnceltics.comSr. Pat Roche, SuperiorSr. Suzanne DauwalterSr. Brittany HarrisonSr. Guerline Joseph

ILLINOISSt. Patrick Convent

408 Cedar Street St. Charles, IL 60174

Telephone: (630) 338-8250Website:

www.stpatrickparish.orgSr. Liz Ryan, Superior

Sr. Isabel GarzaSr. Betty Ann Martinez

Sr. Carmen Morales

St. John Bosco ConventSt. John’s Catholic

Newman CenterUniversity of Illinois

Newman Hall604 East Armory Avenue

Champaign, IL 61820Telephone: (217) 255-6645Website: www.sjcnc.org

Sr. Loretta De Dominicis, SuperiorSr. Mary ArcigaSr. Theresa Lee

Sr. Maryann Schaefer

LOUISIANAImmaculate Conception

Convent2605 Crestwood Road

Marrero, LA 70072Telephone: (504) 347-4887

Website: icschargers.org/cms

Sr. Carmen Peña, SuperiorSr. Maria ColomboSr. Michelle GeigerSr. Helene Godin

It’s moving time! Here’s a handy reference to locate your Salesian Sister. Please write,

e-mail, or call – we love to hear from you!

CALIFORNIASt. Joseph House of Formation

9803 Muroc StreetBellflower, CA 90706

Telephone: (562) 866-7938Postulants

Christina ChongMarianne Cleine

Laura BodenLillian Foxx

Myriam MèusJulie Watts

FLORIDABlessed Laura Vicuña

Convent226 S. W. 20th Road

Miami, FL 33129-1429Telephone: (305) 857-9186

Website: www.lasallehighschool.com

Sr. Kim Keraitis, SuperiorSr. Fanny Flores

Sr. Teresa GutierrezSr. Marisol Guzman

Villa Madonna Convent 315 West Columbus Drive

Tampa, FL 33602-1306Tel: (813) 223-2209, ext. 393

Website: www.villamadonna.orgSr. Susan Bagli, Superior

Sr. Nivia AriasSr. Danielle Gonzalez

Sr. Clare KennellySr. Gloria Machado


Mary Help of Christians Academy

659 Belmont Avenue North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

Telephone: (973) 790-6200Website: www.maryhelp.org

Sr. Phyllis Neves, SuperiorSr. Ramona Beltre

Sr. Antoinette CabreraSr. Mary Ann CasparySr. Agatha Cosentino

Sr. Colleen ClairSr. Mary Jackson

Sr. Lise ParentSr. Mary Bertha Paquin

Sr. Joo Yun ParkSr. Juliett Perez

Sr. Mary RinaldiSr. Teresita Teran

CandidatesKatie FlanaganKristen GawlikApril Hoffman

Chelsea SchusterShannon Sulick

St. Anthony Convent172 Washington AvenueHawthorne, NJ 07506

Telephone: (973) 304-1736

Website: www.stanthonyschool.orgSr. Marisa De Rose, SuperiorSr. Mary Louise Mazzocco

Sr. Rosemary Cordes

St. Theresa Convent 112 - 23rd Street

Kenilworth, NJ 07033-1256Telephone: (908) 276-5028

Website: www.icatholiczone.com/SaintTheresa

Sr. Emy De Filippi, SuperiorSr. Letizia Bocanegra

Sr. Monique Huart

Sacred Heart Retreat Center 20 Old Swartswood RoadNewton, NJ 07860-6221

Telephone: (973) 383-2620Website: www.sacredheart

spiritualitycenter.orgSr. Joanne Holloman, Superior

Sr. Theresa KellySr. Janet Keller

Sr. Florine LagaceSr. Denise Sickinger

2nd Year NovicesSr. Jennifer Kane

Sr. Elfie Del Rosario

Sr. Sydney MossSr. Alaina Zachman

1st Year NovicesSr. Lilian Alvarenga

Sr. Stephanie DonhamSr. Lindsay DurhamSr. Theresa Khong

Sr. Ana RamosSr. Megan Zeugner

Auxilium Center 14 Old Swartswood Rd.

Newton, NJ 07860Telephone: (973) 383-2621

Website: www.campauxilium.orgSr. Theresa Samson, Superior

Sr. Frances Da GrossaSr. Josiane PhanordSr. Elizabeth Russo

NEW YORKCorpus Christi Convent 135 South Regent Street

Port Chester, NY 10573-3510Telephone: (914) 937-4407Website: www.cchrs.org

Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza, SuperiorSr. Margaret Rose Buonaiuto

Sr. Domenica Di PeriSr. Eileen Tickner

On September 15, St. Anthony School in Hawthorne, NJ celebrated the beginning of its 100th anniversary year with a Kick-Off Picnic. Salesian Sisters joined more than 600 alumni, students, and parishioners for a wonderful day!

Salesian Sisters of St. John BoscoDevelopment Office659 Belmont AvenueNorth Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. Postage

P A I DHanover, NHPermit No. 8

Partners in Giving • Autumn 2012 © 2012 Missionary soCiety of saLesian sisters, inC.

PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bimonthly magazine published by the

Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office659 Belmont Avenue

North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

Telephone: (973) 904-0102Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS

Fax: (973) 904-0041E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.salesiansisters.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/salesiansistersdevelopment

Editorial BoardDr. Joseph McAleer, Editor

Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Director of DevelopmentMelissa Esposito, Production Manager

Sr. Mary Terzo, FMA, Editorial Assistant

Federal Tax ID # 22-6043753Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc.

PRIVACY POLICY: Your name, address, and other information

are held in confidence by our ministry and will never be sold, rented, or given

to any other organization.

Partners in Giving welcomes letters, articles, and photos from contributors.

We reserve the right to edit for publication.

Watch out, Paula Deen!

Eliana Casas – a.k.a. “Kid Chef Eliana” – is bringing international flair to the kitchen with her cuisine. The seventh grader at Immaculate Conception School in Marrero, LA, was named by FoxNews and The Daily Meal one of the world’s “10 Most Famous Kid Critics and Cooks.”

Kid Chef Eliana, 12, is the author of two cookbooks, one of which (shown at left) will be published next spring. In two years, she has had notable exposure: one of 13 Latinos profiled in an exhibit at the

Southern Food and Beverage Museum; working alongside renowned Chef John Besh; and competing in SuperChef Kids, a national cooking competition webisode series created by the producers of Iron Chef.

Kid Chef Eliana has big plans for her future. She recently signed with Voice America Kids to host “Cool Kids Cook,” a global radio show that will reach over four million weekly listeners and feature “chefs, authors, and food industry movers- and-shakers.” Kid Chef Eliana will also appear on the Wendy Williams Show, a national daytime talk show, and will soon be featured in Parenting Magazine. All this, and she’s a star Salesian student, too! Congratulations, Eliana!

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