partners in giving spring 2016

Development Office of the Salesian Sisters, Daughters of Mary Help of Christians • www.salesiansisters.org

Partners in GivinGPartners in GivinG

Our Youngest Adopter!

Dear Friends,

This is a celebratory edition of Partners in Giving, and our intriguing cover certainly sets the tone. Let me tell you the story.

Forms like the one shown were handed out at the wonderful celebration in Tampa, FL, marking the 25th anniversary of the Adopt a Sister Program (see pages 3-4 and 12-13). It was intended as a surprise for me, and I was amazed at the turnout! We had a fabulous reunion, and many people unfamiliar with the program decided to join.

Among the completed forms was this one from Joseph Anderson (right), a second grader at Villa Madonna School who makes his First Holy Communion on April 30. Talk about the innocence of a child and heartfelt generosity! (In the interests of full disclosure, Joseph is my grand-nephew. I had nothing to do with his decision!! In fact, Joseph’s parents told me even they had no idea he had emptied his piggy bank!)

I am always so touched by the overwhelming response to the Adopt a Sister program all across the country.

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

Again and again we hear stories recounting God’s special graces received and real miracles had by those with strong faith. Adopt a Sister is not about me, yet my photo appears at least 10 times in this issue! While many Sisters are not present at these gatherings, I thank them for allowing me to be “their face.”

The new “Quarter Century Club” of the Partners Circle did not fall on deaf ears. We have never seen such growth in the Partners Circle in such a short time! Thank you, one and all. See page 12, and please consider joining this vital group.

As this edition goes to press, we are anticipating another grand celebration: the rededication of St. Joseph’s Chapel in North Haledon, NJ. Bishop Arthur J.

Serratelli of Paterson will celebrate Mass on April 17 and bless the new altar and chapel – all thanks to your generosity! Story and photos in the next issue.

Peace,

Save The Dates!Wednesday, May 4

The Dames of Mary Help’s “Women of Distinction” Luncheona benefit for Mary Help of Christians Academy

Guest speakers: Della Crews, News 12 NJ, and Debi Debiak, Esq., Class of 1988Indian Trail Club, Franklin Lakes, NJ • Tickets & information: (973) 904-0102

Friday-Sunday, May 13-15

Mary Help of Christians Academy’s 75th Anniversary ReunionNorth Haledon, NJ • Tickets & information: (973) 904-0102

Sunday, July 17

Salesian Sisters’ Jubilarian CelebrationNorth Haledon, NJ • Watch for details

Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s Letter

about the grateful elderly Sisters in St. Joseph Provincial Center who have been helped by the Adopt a Sister program, and expressed how important it is that the program continues. Guests also enjoyed spending time with Sr. Liz Ryan and Sr.

Mary Bertha Paquin, both of whom were part of the Villa Madonna family for years. Please turn the page for more photos and best wishes.

“What a fabulous celebration,” Theresa shares. “It was beautiful to see so many Adopters come together – some traveling long distances – and share their stories. A large number of people signed up as new Adopters, too. I predict this will be the first of many Adopt reunions!”

For more information on the Adopt a Sister Program, see page 5.

As the Executive Director of Development for the Salesian Sisters’ Eastern Province, Sr. Mary Rinaldi travels frequently, visiting our many

“Partners” coast-to-coast. In February, she was in Florida for a visit with Adopters and friends in Jensen Beach (see page 17) and a stop in Tampa, home to Villa Madonna School and the Joe & Anne Garcia Salesian Youth Center/Boys & Girls Club. Little did she know that a BIG surprise was in store for her inside the SYC gymnasium...

Theresa Anderson, who runs the Tampa Development Office, had the idea for a celebration of the Adopt a Sister Program to launch this, its 25th anniversary year. The call went out to Adopters, supporters, and friends for a surprise party, coinciding with Sr. Mary’s visit. It wasn’t easy keeping the secret, but when Sr. Mary walked into the gym on February 17 to a roaring crowd of nearly 200 people, she was overwhelmed, to say the least!

Sr. Mary was introduced by her first grade student, Adri Ciucio Colina, who was emcee for the party. She offered a special welcome to the family of the late Mr. Fortune Bosco, who helped inspire the Adopt a Sister Program, present to honor their father’s memory.

Guests enjoyed lunch and watched the 1999 broadcast of ABC’s “20/20” program, which highlighted the humble yet powerful beginnings of the Adopt a Sister Program. A special treat was a video message from the original show’s producers, Tom Goldstone and Nola Safro, and host, Bob Brown, congratulating Sr. Mary on the silver anniversary of Adopt a Sister.

Sr. Mary expressed her thanks to all the guests, spoke

Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org Partners in Giving • Spring 2016 • 3

A Tampa Surprise Kicks Off Our 25th!

1991 20161991 2016

Hat’s off to our surprise party planners:Kathy Pedrero, Theresa Anderson, and Leslie Garcia.

The Tampa Tribune covered our 25th Anniversary celebration! Thanks to

our friend and reporter, Lenora Lake.

Sr. Mary Jackson enjoys the party with Tampa Adopters Glenn Permuy Sr., Nick Suszynski, Ernest Urso, Ernest “Cookie” Garcia, Lynette Suszynski, and Fr. Len Plazewski,

Pastor of Christ the King Catholic Church and Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s cousin.

Sr. Mary Jackson, Principal of Villa Madonna School, presents a token of

appreciation to the Fortune Bosco family in remembrance of their father,

Mr. Fortune Bosco.

Enjoying the party are John Mangin, Fr. George Iregi-Parish,Administrator at Most Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in Gulfport, John Mangin, III, Bob Best,

Grace Mangin, and Rosemarie and Joseph Saenz.

Best WishesThese are among the hundreds of good will messages left for Sr. Mary Rinaldi by attendees of the Tampa celebration:

I would love to thank Sr. Mary and all the Sisters for their prayers back

in 1999 when Robert Zurek brought me to you. Thank you!

Kathy Debler, Hudson, FL

It was such a pleasure to reconnect with the Adopt a Sister program

and Sr. Mary Anne Zito. God bless!Chick & Eleanor Perratto

The Villages, FL

How awesome to have this very small part in your life and

especially Adopt a Sister! God has indeed used you in a special way. To Him be the glory!

Riley & Judy Hogan, Brandon, FL

Grace is found in the beauty of your presence. Thank you for

praying for us, as we continue to pray for you.

Jamie McGrogran, Tampa, FL

I love you, Auntie! You’re awesome!

Anna Anderson, San Antonio, FL

Sr. Mary, my father loved you and truly enjoyed working with you

to create the Adopt a Sister Program.Betsy Bosco Turner,

Land O’ Lakes, FL

Proud to have three generations of my family taught by Salesian

Sisters. Hoping my grandkids will keep up the tradition!

Marlene Maseda Lee, Tampa, FL

Thank you so much for every-thing you do. You have been

such an inspiration to us. Love you.Liana & Carlos Baldor, Sr.

Tampa, FL

We love all the Salesians!!! Our family has a history with

Villa Madonna and you are always in our hearts!!!

Suszynski Family, Tampa, FL

Sr. Liz Ryan is thrilled to visit with past Villa PE teacher, Leslie Kanter,

and current Villa Coach, Lisa Beamer.

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Please consider joining our friends of all faiths who have experienced the transforming power of prayer and loving friendship with a Salesian Sister, every day

of the year, through our Adopt a Sister Program. Whether the Adopted Sister is for yourself, a family member, or a friend in need of spiritual strength, you will find comfort knowing that your intentions will be remembered each day by your spiritual prayer partner. And it makes the PERFECT gift, especially for a wedding, Baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation – any occasion! Please complete the form below, or to learn more, visit us online at www.salesiansisters.org, or call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. The Salesian Sisters thank you for your generosity as the program marks 25 years. God bless you!

Please Join Us!

Sr. Joanne Holloman enjoyed a visit with her Adopter,Diane Onken of San Francisco, CA.

CVV: _____________


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Hooray for Adopt a Sister!

Hooray for Hollywood, as they say, and it is especially true for the Salesian Sisters, who count many, many friends and Adopters in Los Angeles, the “City of the

Angels.” Recently our dear friend, Irena Medavoy, invited 35 of her close friends to lunch at her home in Beverly Hills with Sr. Mary Rinaldi and her assistant, Sonya Fernandez. Needless to say, the party was a classy affair! Irena impressed everyone with her trust in the power of prayer. “The remembrance of a Sister praying for me gets me through the moments,” she said. Well put, Irena! Thank you so much!

Our ladies’ lunch in Beverly Hills was filled with joy and laughter!

Above, our hostess, Irena Medavoy, joins Bernadette Leonard,

Sr. Mary, and Christine Chiu.

Right, Sr. Mary visits Nancy Poling of Westlake Village, CA.

Left, crowned by flowers are Geraldine and Joanne Rizzuto

of La Verne, CA.

Sr. Mary joins a group of elegant ladies, including Christina Noonan (left); the hostess, Irena Medavoy, and the Honorable Nicole Avant, former Ambassador to the Bahamas (center); and Linda Thompson (right). What a wonderful celebration!

Our dear friend, Joe Pesci (center), hosted a dinner for Sr. Mary

Rinaldi and Sonya Fernandez at The Bistro Garden in Studio City, CA. They were also joined by Tim and Christina Noonan. What a fun visit!

1991 20161991 2016

We Left Our Hearts by the Bay!

Tony Bennett is right – it’s easy to leave your heart in San Francisco, as the people are so warm and welcoming! Following their memorable visit to Los

Angeles, Sr. Mary and Sonya journeyed up the coast, where Diane and Don Onken arranged a supper in their home, complete with an anniversary cake to celebrate 25 years of the Adopt a Sister Program. It was an unforgettable evening!

Sr. Mary greets Steve Wright, Gina Mackintosh, and the evening’s hosts,

Diana and Don Onken.


Right, Maria Gloria and Tony Rando have

participated in the Adopt a Sister Program for 16 years, and have adopted

11 Sisters. Wow!

Left, Charles Bloch refers to the 10 Sisters that he and his wife,

Barbara, have adopted as their own personal

“God Squad”!


Partners Circle “Stewards”

Annual gift of $11,000

TexasMrs. Betty Turner

Angel Oliva FamilyThe Dorothy Thomas Foundation

Indiana Mrs. Beatrice Lightfoot

New Jersey Tony Amato Family The Carini Family

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

California Richard Meissner,

Meissner Manufacturing

FloridaDorothy & Dr. Vincent Bagli

Josie & Ray CampoAnne & Joseph Garcia PCMrs. Ann Lowry Murphey

Mr. Anthony PetrocelliMs. Roberta Ruocco

Ms. Celeste TripiMr. Vincent Waraske

New YorkMrs. Pearl Kalikow

Partners Circle “Visionaries” Annual gift of $27,250

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 ten levels of membership, starting at $250, and are listed on these three pages. Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group in

2016, our 25th year?

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

Welcome

74new or upgradedPartners Circle

Members so far in 2016!

Shown in RED

74new upgraded

PC = denotes a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees

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Mr. Charles B. Schmalz

GeorgiaMr. Robert Reiter

MassachusettsMr. & Mrs. Neil Holmes

MissouriMs. Marianne O’Doherty

New JerseyMs. Debi F. Debiak

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

Michael & Mary LosurdoMr. & Mrs. Michael Massood

Mrs. Arline Monaco

CaliforniaMr. & Mrs. Robert Obenberger

ConnecticutLinda & Peter Christiansen PCMr. & Mrs. Salvatore Zichichi

FloridaMr. & Mrs. John Anello

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Caballero PCTerrell & Joe Clark

Dr. Andrea & Sean Farrier PCMrs. Aida Jurado

Mr. & Mrs. Jim MajorDr. Patricia Mergo

Mr. & Mrs. Frank MiddendorfRobert Nocek & Ann Bryk

Gene & Linda Perez

Partners Circle “Benefactors” Annual gift of $1,100

Partners Circle “Partners”Annual gift of $5,500

Mr. & Mrs. Rodger RohdeChristopher & Corinne Schiavo

& The Shepherd and the Knucklehead PubJoseph & Rita Weiner

New YorkMr. John Cassara

PennsylvaniaKeun Ho (Christopher) & Soon Ok (Gemma)

Chong

FloridaMr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor PC

Mr. & Mrs. James MillarLydia & John Oliva

New JerseyMr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis

In memory of Mr. & Mrs. C.H. Church, Jr.

Joanne & Al Daloisio Mr. & Mrs. Robert Harkins PC

Mr. Bill McLaughlin PCA.J. & Mindy Papetti

ConnecticutMary Bridget Gaine

FloridaDr. Idalia Lastra

PennsylvaniaChristopher & Gemma Chong

Mr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow

Partners Circle “Friends”

Annual gift of $3,300

Mrs. Carolyn Young

New YorkMichael & Jeanette Altamura

Ms. Lea BattiatoJohn W. Lombardi & Family

Msgr. William T. RodgersThe Sabatine FoundationMr. & Mrs. Angelo Silveri

North CarolinaChester & Monica Michewicz

PennsylvaniaMr. & Mrs. Bob DanchAllyson & Kevin Hardy

MassachusettsMr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair

New JerseyMr. & Mrs. Donald HofmannMr. & Mrs. Joseph Laudone

Marilyn & Dale LiviMr. & Mrs. Joseph Massood Mrs. Moira McBride MurphyMr. & Mrs. Stephen Papetti

Rose PeroneMr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer PC

Maria Sturchio

CaliforniaMrs. Maryann Roman

ConnecticutMr. Michael Guarnieri PC

Christina & David McAleer PCDr. Joseph McAleer PC

FloridaJohn & Pat Connors

Anthony & Diana EkonomouLowry Murphey Family Foundation

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Oliva PCMr. Fredy Padovan

Partners Circle “Founders” Annual gift of $2,200

New YorkJordon Carroll

Mr. & Mrs. James Dell’OrtoMr. Ian H. Graham

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala

PennsylvaniaIn Loving Memory

of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA

South CarolinaMr. & Mrs. Tom Aldinger

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OUR MISSIONThe Salesian Sisters’

Partners Circle provides Financial Assistance

and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and the Young People

in their Care for the Advancement of

Education, Vocations, and Community Life.

Partners Circle “Associates” Annual gift of $825

PC = a member of the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees

FloridaDeclan & Paula Mansfield

Anne & Fred MichaelsRene & Phyllis RodriguezMr. & Mrs. Terry Wood

New JerseyMr. & Mrs. Anthony Della Cerra

Kathleen & Vic Medore

South CarolinaAnonymous

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IllinoisThe Mills FamilyAdelaide Olivieri

LouisianaMr. & Mrs. George LeBlanc

MassachusettsMs. Patti Gauthier

Ms. Josephine PetrilloMr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading

New JerseyTiziana Anello, M.D.

Larry & Mary Anne ConditMs. Anita Cronk John Eccleston

Mr. & Mrs. Michael G. FerritoDr. & Mrs. Louis Gambetta PC

Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Giamonco Teresa GuttoJames Lane

Laura Cosentino MannarinoMrs. Diva Muller

Mrs. Maureen O’HalloranMrs. Christine Peragallo

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski

ArizonaAnonymous

CaliforniaJoanne & Geraldine

Rizzuto

ConnecticutMr. & Mrs. Edward Goin

Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey

FloridaDr. Kenneth Alonso

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor

Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr. PCDr. & Mrs. Robert Cano

Mrs. Trudy CareyDr. & Mrs. Antonio Castro

Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria PC

Mr. & Mrs. Luis Garcia PCMr. & Mrs. Mark S. Reynolds

Rudy RodriguezKathy & John Pedrero PC

Hon. & Mrs. E.J. Salcines PCMs. Maria C. TorreiroMr. & Mrs. Ron Yates

GeorgiaMr. & Mrs. Charles Fantauzza

Partners Circle “Members” Annual gift of 550

Mr. & Mrs. Cameron ReidE.N. Sarantis

Mrs. Kathleen Zayatz

New YorkMr. & Mrs. Jack Betwarda

Kevin & Kathy ClairMrs. Rose Mary Clair

Terence & Patricia ClairMr. & Mrs. Charles V. Curcio

Ms. Claire DellMr. Walter Lazarcheck

Mr. & Mrs. Mario MasciandaroMr. & Mrs. Mark Nardone

Mrs. Joan Oliver Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec

North CarolinaMr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard

OhioMr. & Mrs. Dale Kovach

PennsylvaniaMr. & Mrs. Jack Hedgecock

VirginiaMrs. Dominique FaustMr. Michael Maurer

Mr. & Mrs. Karl Zauner

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New! Partners Circle “Quarter Century Club”Annual gift of $250

CaliforniaMr. Richard Suda

ConnecticutMrs. Frances M. McAleerMr. Patrick J. Waide, Jr.

Anonymous

FloridaMr. & Mrs. Jon Barry

Kurt & Laura BadertscherMr. & Mrs. Fred A. Cairoli

Mrs. Suzanne Carlisle Mr. & Mrs. Manuel FernandezMr. & Mrs. Edward Gomez, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. John Mangin, Jr.

During this, our 25th Anniversary Year, we’ve made it even easier to join the Partners Circle, with a new commemorative level of membership: the “Quarter Century Club,” a cost of just $250 per year. Entrance to the club will be limited only to introductory members who join in 2016. The response so far has been outstanding! Welcome new Partners in RED!

Mr. and Mrs. Paul SchmidMr. & Mrs. Richard StowersMrs. Rita Zoppo Vietmeier

New HampshireMr. & Mrs. Thomas

DiMicelli

New JerseyDr. & Mrs. Joseph Amatuzzi

Janice CollinsTheodore & Lynda LeoMs. Mary Bernadette

MazauskasMr. & Mrs. Joseph Nowak

Gregory & Stephanie Monaco

Anna & Richard SpalckhaverRobert and Constance Sumas

Karla T. VillarinMr. Edward M. Zambrano

New YorkMr. & Mrs. Joseph Collison

Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Dell’Orto

PennsylvaniaMrs. Judith Falcone Lichty

South CarolinaElizabeth Craig

& Michael Reeves, Jr.


At the Adopt a Sister 25th Anniversary celebration

in Tampa, Javier Baldor and his brother, Carlos Baldor, Jr., visit with their former classmate, Fr. Len Plazewski, Pastor of Christ the King Catholic Church and Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s cousin. Both Javier and Carlos serve on the Partners Circle National Board of Trustees. This month, Javier concludes two consecutive terms (six years) as Chairman of our Board. Javier, how blessed we were with your strong leadership and always good advice! Thank you andGod bless you!

1991 20161991 2016

Imagine the surprise of our Vocations Director, Sr. Theresa Lee (right,

center), when she, Sr. Guerline Joseph, and Sr. Christina Chong attended a vocations fair at the University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. Who appeared but her Adopters, Pat and Mary Feist, whom she had never met! What a blessing! “Who would’ve ever thought we would ever meet!” Sr. Theresa says. “Until now, I’d only met my Mom’s friends in New Jersey, who are Adopters!”

Above, longtime friend and supporter John Joerger of

Alexandria, VA, was in Tampa on March 21 and invited all of the Sisters at Villa Madonna Convent – Sr. Rosemary Cordes, Sr. Myriam Meus, Sr. Mary Jackson, and Sr. Elfie Del Rosario – to a fabulous dinner at the Columbia Restaurant. A grand time was had by all. Thank you, John!

At left, enjoying the Tampa Adopt a Sister celebration are

Partners Circle National Board member, Hon. E.J. Salcines (center) and his wife, Elsa, of Tampa, joined by our dear friends Beverly and Rodger Rohde of Longboat Key, FL.

O ne of the newest members of the Adopt a Sister Program is Mark Spada of Tampa,

FL, who has adopted Sr. Myriam Meus. Welcome aboard, Mark!


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, joining our loved ones to the prayers of the Salesian Sisters while supporting their 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 in the enclosed envelope to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS

Name – DECEASED

Name – LIVING

A LoveThat Lasts

ForeverSr. Rose Zorzi, FMA

Mrs. Darlene Menendez

Sr. Marion Vecchio, FMAMr. Joseph Vecchio

Sr. Letizia Bocanegra, FMAMs. Dolores Tango

Patricia Ann SeverynMr. Clifton B. Mace

Elna Rae ZeilingerMr. Phil Zeilinger

Mrs. Janet Ruth Allen CooperMr. Leamond Anthony Allen

Arnold J. RossiMr. & Mrs. Albert Conforti

Rose QuinnMr. Michael Quinn

Joan Lee RichardsMr. Nelson T. Alderman

Angela De SimoniMs. Nancy Canfarotta

Ruth & Art PetersonMr. & Mrs. Curt Peterson

Charles A. SaggeseMrs. Elizabeth H. Saggese

Ana Maria BaldorMr. & Mrs. Neil Holmes

K. Regina (Jean) PetcavageMrs. Elaine Terrill

Eugene Albert WoodyMr. & Mrs. Arnold Pucillo

Dolores PantaleoMs. Liz Durkin

Thomas ZambitoMr. & Mrs. Reynee Dominguez

Ledia E. MendezMr. & Mrs. Reynee Dominguez

Rafael ZaragozaMr. & Mrs. Reynee Dominguez

Patricia Ann SeverynMs. Catherine Cherpak

Mr. Blake Seward

William H. AlbrechtSalesian Sisters

Ralph DamianoSalesian Sisters

Regla CouretMr. & Mrs. Reynee Dominguez

Jorge Luis EsquirolMr. & Mrs. Reynee Dominguez

Rose Marie LazzaraMrs. Christine Lopez

Girolamo LoBoscoMrs. Dorothy Gangi

Frank J. HargraveMrs. Theresa Hargrave

Luis A. Tirado, Jr.Mr. Luis A. Tirado, Sr.

MemorialsReceived between February 5 and April 4, 2016

Sr. Virginia Dickey, FMACheri & Ed Brinkman

Sr. Hélène Godin, FMAMs. Dolores Tango

Sr. Monique Huart, FMA

Ms. Dolores Tango

Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMAMrs. Katherine Peterson

Gemma Colapietro MacCarrick

Mrs. Jean Barkovitz

Patricia M. HoytMrs. Jean Barkovitz

Dan Davis

Mrs. Jeanann Davis

Stella FioranelliMs. Rita Stevens

Heywood TurnerMr. & Mrs. Reynee Dominguez

Dr. Karen A. CastellanoMrs. Christine Lopez

Dorothy AntonMr. Harold Anton

Tributes

A little child cries out. It’s a skinned knee, or a rebuff from a sibling, or

a moment of fear. Regardless of the cause and without questions, a parent reaches out and collects the child – and all his or her pain – into arms of sympathy and strength. The warmth and security in the moment of embrace bears a calming and healing power as sobs become whimpers and then silence. A minute close to the heartbeat of the parent, some soothing words, and the child is released again: serene, restored, ready to take on the world again, perhaps a little wiser.

Such an image might be a favorite of St. Francis de Sales, who came to know God through everyday human experience. In that parent who responds with a heart of love and mercy, we can imagine the sentiments and actions of God and what the experience of being in His presence can offer us.

As adults, we know that the power of one meeting, one conversation, or one moment – when we are profoundly touched by another – can restore us and even redirect our lives in a subtle or dramatic way. We can all pinpoint times when we have breathed a sigh of relief or have somehow felt restored, thanks to the action or perhaps just the presence of a spouse or a friend. These are freeing moments of deep connection, which lifted a burden and gave us new energy in our attitude toward ourselves and others.

Meetings like these with God are an integral part of this “Year of Mercy” that Pope Francis has called the world to celebrate.

So many relationships are terribly diminished today. Achievement, personal gain, feeling good, efficiency, and the primacy of the self are some of the competing values that threaten truly human relationships and our relationship with God Himself. Even our own relationship with ourselves can be compromised. We are plagued by many things from which we hide. We do not like certain aspects of ourselves, and so we hide even from ourselves. We run from one “narcotic” to another in trends

and experiences, robbing ourselves of the fullness of life that we are created for, and crowding out the joy of loving relationships. We carry our personal load of failures and our hurts – whether from errors and ruptured relationships or from some shame and guilt – that all cry out for healing.

It is precisely here where Jesus wants to meet us, and to gather us into His arms, as a parent does a hurting child. The Gospel is replete with such images. Take the Prodigal Son, the woman caught in adultery, Peter with Jesus on the beach after his denial, and the many who were cured by Jesus. Each one found unconditional welcome, restoration, and wholeness. This is the experience the Church holds out to us during the Year of Mercy.

How can we hope to know this

In the Arms of MercySr. Karen Dunn’s Letter

experience? We know the way, though our ability to go to that place so often evades us. We can find this experience by staying quietly with the Lord, the source of all love and mercy… staying with Him and meditating on the images of human love that we know… staying with the Gospel stories and seeing them as our stories… meditating on the

love of Christ poured out for us on the Cross. For Catholics

there is also the inestimable gift of the Sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, where we know we can run with the hurts and sins of our life and hear human words of forgiveness and comfort that are Jesus’ divine words, spoken through His ordained

minister. We come away from the Lord each time further

healed and restored.

Once we begin tasting this experi-ence of mercy deep within us, we are able to embrace the brokenness, pain, and needs of the world. We can meet the “world” closest to us with mercy, a mercy which – with the eyes of Jesus – sees the struggle of every human being.

We can, in fact, “become” mercy. This can happen if we encounter the transforming embrace of Love itself.

In this Year of Mercy, let us make space for an encounter with Christ. Let us open the deepest part of ourselves, with all our bumps and pains of life, so that He can gather us into His arms, touch us at the core of our being, calm us, make us whole, and release us back into the world to become agents of His mercy!

In this Year of Mercy, let us

make space for an encounter with Christ.


It’s Spring! Please Give Us This Day!

During the next eight months, is there some date that is special to you? Will you

share it with the Salesian Sisters? It may be a day of joy, a day of a sad event, a day of recognition, a day of any significant meaning in your life or the life of one of your loved ones.

We invite you to share this day with the Sisters. It will be given prominence on the day on the bulletin board of the chapel in the St. Joseph Provincial Center in Haledon, NJ. The Sisters will remember you, your family, and the person(s) you wish to honor in their prayers and sacrifices throughout the day.

Please let us know by returning the form below, and then count on us for a special day just for YOU. Thank you, and God bless you!

Once again our dear friend, Bob Reiter of Atlanta, GA, treated the Salesian Sisters inHaledon, NJ, to Easter dinner with all the trimmings. Sr. Theresa Kelly (center) presides

at the celebration. Thank you, Bob, and God bless you!


A Jensen Beach Celebration to Remember!

Twenty-five years ago our Adopt a Sister Program was born – and that means 2016 is a year of celebrations! Special thanks to Courtney Santorella and Maryann

Jubanosky, who gathered together 35 Adopters and friends for a wonderful supper, topped off by a huge cake, at Shuckers on the Beach in Jensen Beach, FL. Sr. Mary Rinaldi and her assistant, Sonya Fernandez, enjoyed seeing so many familiar faces, and also welcomed new Adopters to the program. Thank you, Courtney and Maryann!

Sr. Mary visits with Michelle Miller of Palm Beach, FL, and her friend.

Above, Gerri Addeo (right) introduced her friends to the Adopt a Sister Program!

Below, Sr. Mary with the evening’s hostesses, Maryann Jubanowsky

and Courtney Santorella.

A fun table includes Courtney Santorella, Rose Kessler, Mary and Jerry Vitti, C.S., Rob Stark, and Heloise Wu.

1991 20161991 2016

Salesian Youth Report


VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, TAMPA, FL – “Please bring honor to us . . . please bring honor to us all!” And that’s just what Villa Madonna staff and students did on the weekend of March 18, throughout the three phenomenal performances of the Disney musical “Mulan.” The school play is annually put on by Ms. Roxana Harst, a teacher at Villa Madonna, who loves and cares so much for the students. Ms. Harst works hard to create a main cast that includes anyone who wants to be in the play. She strives to find volunteers to be voice coaches, run scenes with the kids, and help them with each and every moment of their scenes. She then works all students into the play in some way, whether it be in a special scene that includes the whole class or even the eighth graders who run the sounds, lights, and backstage help. The main cast of “Mulan” was the largest ever, with 93 main cast members! After-school play practices lasted for four months, and the gym was transformed into a beautiful set the week before the play, with the help of volunteers who spent a full Saturday building the set. Villa Madonna students were in their glory, and pulled off a top-notch weekend! Villa Madonna students are now looking forward to hearing what next year’s play will be!



From her earliest days as a high school student at Mary Help of Christians Academy in

North Haledon, NJ, it was clear that Ximena Cespedes, Class of 2015, was going places. William Bliss, her history and linguistics teacher, called Ximena “one of the best students I’ve ever had. Her writing is off the charts – beyond what you’d expect from anyone in high school.”

Ximena maintained a 4.0 GPA along with serving on the Student Council throughout her six years at Mary Help. She also found time to participate in the New Jersey Science League, served as editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, and was the only student to earn a score of 100 in two successive years on her Advanced Placement History Finals.

With Mr. Bliss’s guidance, Ximena discovered Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service would enable her to study the combined fields of international affairs, politics, history, cultures, and languages as an International Relations major. Fascinated by the connection between International Relations and economics, she looks forward to delving into the two fields’ combined impact on countries’ relationships.

Currently a Freshman, Ximena admits her first months at Georgetown weren’t easy ones. “It was a major culture shock,” she says. “I wasn’t used to the learning style, so the beginning of the semester was a very big struggle.”

Eventually, Ximena had an “a-ha moment,” realizing she could apply the critical thinking methods she learned at Mary Help in Mr. Bliss’

classroom. Interpreting facts, figuring out the various points of view, and realizing that all subjects are interrelated enabled her to succeed.

“These basic techniques really helped me improve, and taught me to learn for the sake of knowledge rather than just for the sake of getting good grades,” Ximena explains. “It’s about enriching yourself and enriching the community as a whole, and that has made all the difference in the way that

I learn and perform in class.”

Her education at Mary Help, combined with support from Ximena’s family and the Tri-County Scholarship Fund, have proven to be a winning combination. Peruvian immigrants, Sara and Pedro Cespedes each worked two jobs to create opportunities for Ximena and her sister, Mayra, also a TCSF scholar.

“We didn’t want our parents to sacrifice all they had sacrificed, working so hard to the point of exhaustion, to go to waste,” Ximena says. “I take my Mother’s passion and my Dad’s dreams, and combine them to make my own dreams happen.”

Ximena is extremely grateful for her Tri-County scholarship grants. “Education really is the key to acquiring a better life for yourself,” she believes. “I know that if it weren’t for Tri-County, I wouldn’t have had all the opportunities for leadership that Mary Help and Georgetown have afforded me. Tri-County paved the way to my future, and helped me believe in myself. Thank you for everything. I am eternally grateful.” As for Ximena’s future, Mr. Bliss says the sky’s the limit.

“Ximena could definitely be in politics or an international political organization like the United Nations,” Mr. Bliss maintains. He even went so far as to make her promise to “save me a seat at your Presidential inauguration,” saying if this were to occur, he would not be shocked. “Ximena’s just that kind of person.” We agree!

– courtesy Tri-County Scholarship Fund

From Mary Help to Georgetown U.

“Education really is the key to acquiring a better

life for yourself. I didn’t want my parents to sacrifice all they had, working so hard to the

point of exhaustion, to go to waste.”

Ximena Cespedes, Salutatorianof the Mary Help Class of 2015.

one book. He also mentioned that he was helping some of his friends to do landscaping work at parks.

At the end of our conversation, I was sad to think about how this man did not have a home, but I was also glad that I had the opportunity to make a small difference in Ricky’s life and knew that all I could do for him once I left Miami was to pray for him.

Gospel Roads has taught me that it is not enough for me to embark on a mission of service once. Every day is an opportunity to live for Christ who died for us. By prayerfully reflecting on His word and striving to do His will every day, I can follow the path

that He has set for me, and help others whenever in loving service. I will never forget the powerful words of Mother Teresa, “We can do no great things, but only small things with great love.”

Although I cannot solve any of the world’s biggest problems, I take comfort that God has called me to live the gospel every day, and to serve others, one person and one small act at a time.

– Natalie Ang



ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC NEWMAN CENTER, UNIVER-SITY OF ILLINOIS – Students volunteered for “Gospel Roads II” during their winter break, by heading to Miami, FL, to work with Mother Teresa’s order, the Missionary Sisters of Charity. They assisted in the Sisters’ outreach to the poor and homeless. Sr. Maryann Schaefer reports that the trip was both enriching and life-altering for participants. Well done, students! Two reflections are shared below.

Working with the Missionary Sisters of Charity was one of the most inspiring and

humbling experiences I have had. Though I have done a number of service projects in the past, this was one of the first times I got to work directly with the people I was serving. Getting to talk one-on-one to people and hearing their stories helped me gain perspective in my own life and, especially, in how much I have to be grateful for. Seeing the Sisters serve the poor with so much love each day inspired me to trust in God in both the big and small things. The Sisters trusted that each day God would bring food and volunteers to their soup kitchen and that He would provide – and He did! I want to trust God as completely as they do.

Working with homeless children at the Chapman Partnership reminded me that we are all children of God, made in His image. There was so much energy in the room, full of boisterous children, and they immediately placed so much trust in all of us volunteering. No matter what their story was or where they had come from, they were still just children, giggling and wanting to run around and play games with us. It was an experience that called me to remember the simple things and to appreciate the beauty God has created all around me.

– Abbie Gerth

One day, one of the homeless men we were serving raised his hand while having his

meal. I scurried over, asking him what I could do for him. He said, “Oh nothing, you just looked so cheerful, I just want to have a chat with you for awhile if you don’t mind.” I proceeded to have a conversation with Ricky and was blown away by how knowledgeable he was in economics, politics, and the like. He told me that he loved to read and would go to the library every week to read at least

Sr. Maryann Schaefer visits homeless children on the Gospel Roads II trip.

The Gospel Roads II team assisted the Missionaries of Charity in Miami.



Winning a championship is every team’s

dream. Although the prize will only go to one team, it is definitely a fun time trying to get the gold.

A championship has been the goal of our Class of 2016 at St. Theresa School in Kenilworth, NJ, since the fifth grade when we started playing JV basketball. Even though we didn’t reach that goal our first year, in sixth grade we did hold a record of 12-0; however, we lost our first playoff game. We were sad, but determined to do better. In seventh grade, three more players joined our team. We had a 6-6 record and lost our first playoff game, again! We kept the faith and proclaimed that we would win next year!

After grinding out long practices during this, our eighth grade year, we won 11 straight games, but then lost to

“Courage! Onward, ever onward!”

ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, MARRERO, LA – Members of the Academy of Our Lady’s True Love Waits Club pledged to guard and maintain a pure heart during a Mass celebrated by Fr. Louis Molinelli, SDB, who blessed and distributed purity bracelets. The pledge that club members recited at Mass was, “We pledge to respect our bodies, minds, and hearts through modesty, chastity, self love, and a love for Christ. We pledge to help each other grow as sisters in Christ, and to become the young women we are called to be.” Pictured here with their bracelets are Leah Nguyen, Sandy Vo, Briana Tastet, and Jaden Folse.

St. James, an undefeated team, in overtime! We knew we would play this school again at the finals, and were determined to beat them.

First we had to play two playoff games at home, which we won by pure determination. Finally, St. Theresa met St. James in the finals at Union Catholic, where a hard game was played. This time there wouldn’t be sad and disappointed faces. Cheering, excitement, and joy were coming from the St. Theresa Stallions! We ended up winning by a very close score of 30-27. We finally got the CYO championship we had been

fighting for, for four years!

Like Don Bosco said, “Onward, ever onward!” It feels good to achieve a goal, especially with your best friends!

– Luke Bollwage, 8th grade

The St. Theresa Stallions raise their championship trophy!



IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, MIAMI, FL – To mark St. John Bosco’s feast day, ILS students welcomed their peers from St. John Neumann High School in Naples, FL, for their annual retreat, planned and carried out by the ILS Salesian Leadership Team. More than 1,200 students and teachers participated! The day began with a beautiful Mass with Fr. John Nazzaro, SDB. After Mass, students were treated to lunch and enjoyed all sorts of games and activities, even rock climbing. It was a great day filled with great Salesian joy and camaraderie.

MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – Anna Swartzberg and Stephanie Siok, Mary Help seniors, headed to Florida for a reunion of Salesian Leadership Retreat members from St. Petersburg Catholic High School and St. John Neumann High School in Naples. These retreats allow juniors to join peers from eight other Salesian schools as they explore and develop their leadership skills and spirituality. Lasting friendships are formed – as these happy photos show!

The Joy of Being a Salesian Educator

The joy of being a Salesian Sister and educator is amazing! When I am with the young, I get a

rush of energy, joy, and excitement. The ability to share the love Jesus has given to me with them is awesome!

I loved being with children, even before becoming a Salesian Sister. I have three nephews and two nieces and I spent a lot of time with them when they were little, playing and reading stories to them, finger-painting and coloring, and taking them places. I was with them more than with the adults of my family.

I also taught Religious Education classes in my parish, but there I taught ninth graders along with my aunt. Ninth graders were a whole different scene but they still needed guidance and love. These experiences helped me to feel the call of Jesus to share His love with young people, especially His little ones.

Since becoming a Salesian Sister, I have had the privilege of teaching and accompanying toddlers and pre-school children, as well as primary age children, one to five years of age. They are a delight! I love it when they get excited and their faces light up with joy. This just melts my heart and I know it is truly a blessed moment.

I have come to realize that little ones are just like sponges; they soak up everything around them. They especially like it when I read them stories and change my voice according to the characters or situations, and, I must admit, this is a favorite of mine, too.

When we open our day with prayer, we end with the Sign of the Cross and say, “Three persons, One God, and Jesus loves you this much and more,” as they open their arms wide. They are so innocent and full of faith, and I know that God is smiling down upon them and me, too.

When I talk about what prayer is with the little ones, I tell them it is talking to God, and I add that God loves to hear from them.

One day, the children were playing in their activity centers and one group was role-playing the teachers. They were asked what were some things Sr. Janet says. A boy responded, “God loves to hear from you!” He certainly was paying attention!

I have unhappily been away from the children since the end of November when I broke my ankle and had to go to our Provincial House to have surgery and recuperate. The Sisters are taking great care of me, but there is a void in my heart because I miss the children so much and I find myself counting the days until I can be with them again.

The young are our hope and our future, and I want to contribute in any way I can to their joy and success.

I really feel what St. John Bosco said: “It is enough for you to be young for me to love you. I am really myself when I am with you. It is right that my life should be spent with you.”

I totally agree!

– Sr. Janet Keller, FMA

Our Hope and Our Future

“When I am with the young, I get a rush of energy, joy, and

excitement. The ability to share the love Jesus has given to me with them

is awesome!”

Sr. Janet Keller loves teaching toddlers and pre-school children, ages 1-5.


On March 17, the kindergarteners at Immaculate Conception School in Marrero, LA, marked the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day by wearing green

to school, and honored St. Joseph by constructing an altar (above) in his honor, blessed by Fr. Salvador Galvez. The altar offers a chance to share special symbolic food with others, and gives believers a way to express gratitude or remembrance. This year’s altar was in remembrance of Mrs. Tanya Durand, an ICS teacher who died last summer.

On another sunny Spring day in March, you-know-who (below) hopped around school, to the students’ delight!

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partners in giving spring 2016

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