partners in giving winter 2015

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

Partners in GivinG

Sr. Elfie DelRosario and Sr. Janet Keller

had fun with the children attending

Breakfast with Santa at Villa Madonna

School in Tampa, FL.

2 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXIV • Issue 1 Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS

The Salesian Community of Washington, DC, has announced that Cardinal Oscar Rodriquez Maradiaga,

SDB, Archbishop of Tegucigalpa, Honduras (shown above), will be the principal celebrant and homilist for the Bicentennial Mass commemorating the birth of St. John Bosco. The Mass will take place at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington on Sunday, May 3, at 12:00 noon. That date is also significant as it is the feast day of the Eastern Province of St. Philip the Apostle. Save the date and make plans to attend!

Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s Letter

Dear Friends,

Believe me when I say, I never expected to make headlines in the Tampa Tribune on February 3! But the day before, I was involved in a terrible car crash while driving home to visit my ailing mother, who is 96 years young (and now improving, thank God!).

Mercifully, I don’t remember much about the accident or the aftermath, when I was airlifted by helicopter to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa. What I do remember is the overwhelming

kindness of the doctors and nurses, the hospital chaplain and staff, and of course my family, Sisters, and friends, who rushed to my side. And, as the news spread like wildfire across the country and beyond, from all of YOU! Your many messages and prayers were dutifully conveyed to my bedside and comforted me immensely. I shed many tears!

I can testify (once again!) that prayers work, along with good medicine. I was released from the hospital after two days, and now am under doctor’s orders to rest at our convent next to Villa Madonna School. Rest does not come naturally to me, but I will obey.

When something unexpected like this happens, you naturally take stock and count your blessings. I realize more than ever before how grateful I am to serve Our Lord, Our Lady, and their Son as a Salesian Sister. Life is precious, and no opportunity to reach out and help your neighbor in need, offering kindness, compassion, and love, should ever be missed.

God bless you, and thank you again from my heart.

Did St. John Bosco like cotton candy? Whether he

did or not, the sweet treat was part of the Catholic Schools Week feast day celebration of the Saint, held at Mary

Help of Christians Academy in January. Sr. Brittany Harrison was on hand to

swirl the candy.

Each year in many Salesian elementary schools, students look forward to the feast

of St. John Bosco. Besides the lively and joyful celebration of the Eucharist, the anticipated break from class and the fun, which is always part of this day and is big in every Salesian house, there is a tradition that is seemingly unbreakable. It is a re-enactment of… the broom beating! One student appears in front as Don Bosco, decked in a black cassock and the priest’s black beretta; another is armed with a household broom; and then some lucky student shows up in street clothes. The story is recounted in vivid detail by the young actors to the laughter of their friends and the giggles of surprised kindergarteners…

On the feast of Mary Immaculate, December 8, 1841, while vesting for Mass, the priest Don Bosco heard the sacristan shrieking after a poor youngster and batting him with his broom. The boy had sneaked into the church to get warm, and the sacristan was not having any ragged good-for-nothing hanging around as Mass was about to begin.

Don Bosco appeared to find the cause of such commotion. “Hey, call that boy back,” he cried, “he’s my friend.”

The flustered and confused sacristan dragged the boy back in.

Don Bosco asked, “What is your name?” “Bartholomew Garelli,” the boy answered.

“How old are you, Bartholomew?”“Sixteen,” answered the boy.

“Can you serve Mass?” “No.”

“What do you do?” “I am a bricklayer,” he said, head lowered.

“Your mother and father?” Don Bosco continued. “I am alone,” the boy responded sadly.

“Do you know your catechism? Can you read or write?” The boy’s eyes were down and, at each query, his

head shook.

“Can you whistle?” “Yes, I can whistle,” exclaimed Bartholomew, laughing.

And that friendship, struck up on the spur of the moment, began Don Bosco’s worldwide

campaign to bring young people to God. He told

Bartholomew to stay for Mass. Afterwards, he said, “Next

Sunday, bring your friends here, and we’ll spend the day together.”

The next Sunday, four ragged boys, looking badly in need of a meal and warm clothing, came to Don Bosco, and so began his work of caring for young people. He welcomed, loved, guided, and provided for them so that they could know the greatness of their lives, become persons of character – even saints – as “good Christians and honest citizens.” In his houses were raised saints like Dominic Savio and great men and women who built their lives on faith and service.

From this man of faith, of action, of prayer, of youthful holiness, came a family who number today 15,000 Salesian priests and brothers, 13,000 Salesian Sisters, 26,000 Salesian Lay

Don Bosco Turns 200 This Year! Sr. Karen Dunn’s Letter

Cooperators, other religious families that arose in his spirit, and hundreds of thousands of young people who live in educational environments of family, faith, joy, optimism, and service.

In April 1934, Pope Pius XI declared St. John Bosco a saint, calling him “a giant of sanctity.” To the young people he was a “papa,” simply “Don Bosco” who would sit up at night to mend their clothes and meet the next day with top government officials to obtain the support they needed.

He inspires us to love and revere the young; to see the face of God in them; and to read, even in a sometimes unpolished exterior, the immense goodness that is waiting to be called forth from within.

These pages in Partners in Giving allow you a little snapshot of the tremendous good this zealous dreamer Don Bosco has inspired. His way of living the Gospel is thriving still today in a world that hungers for God and among young people who need a friend to support, to encourage, to show the way, to nurture them, and to bring them to Christ. You, our readers and friends, participate in the mission and the good that is done by the great family of Don Bosco through your prayers and presence to us!

“Everything fades away, but not our gratitude. We shall always pray that God will

abundantly bless those who have been so good to us.”

– St. John Bosco

God bless you!


Making Headlines Around the Province

January 12, 2010 is forever etched in the memories of Haitians all over the world, as the day that

the devastating 35-second earthquake changed their country forever. The earthquake killed more than 600,000 people and left over 1.5 million without a home. The Salesian Sisters were quick to mobilize, with the assistance of our Adopters and friends all around the world, to support our Sisters and young people in Haiti.

A survivor of the earthquake, Sarah Garçon, is now finishing her senior year at Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ. Sarah moved to North Haledon for her eighth-grade year, following the earthquake, and plans to major in engineering once she graduates.

We sat down with Sarah and asked her about the impact and changes the earthquake has had on her country, five years later.

How did the earthquake affect the social structure of Haiti, specifically the lives of children?

Haiti has experienced several waves of emigration and the earthquake caused another that has endangered the Haitian educational structure. Countless children in Port-au-Prince, the capital, were left orphaned, but of those who still had families, almost 50% of them had to move to the countryside, where the educational system is not as evolved. Many young professionals have left the country, and many have expatriated to the neighboring republic, never to return.

What has the earthquake and its after-effects taught you in your life?

The earthquake has taught me to cherish every second of every day. Life is short and can change in less than a

Five Years Later, Haiti Continues to Heal

A survivor of the 2010 earthquake, Sarah Garçon, is now finishing her senior year at Mary Help of Christians Academy. Sarah moved to North Haledon for her eighth-grade year,

following the earthquake, and plans to major in engineering once she graduates.

second; mine did. It also taught me to face unexpected situations. I was barely a teenager when I had to leave my home and my parents and learn how to adapt to a new culture, a new life.

What has the government done to help those in need?

Several countries have helped Haiti, and the Haitian government has

implemented specific programs to support the population.Unfortunately, these aided only the poorer class, while the middle class, on which most of the country’s economy is based, was not included in the assistance provided by the government. The middle class was left impoverished, with no one to come to their assistance.

In order to provide temporary housing to those who lost

“The earthquake has taught me cherish every

second of every day. Life is short and can change in less than a second; mine did.”

Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org Partners in Giving • Winter 2015 • 5

their homes, tent cities were erected. Five years after the earthquake, more than 92% of the people in the tent cities were relocated. In fact, some villages have been rebuilt and families have received funds to relocate.

Are you familiar with what the Salesian Sisters have done to help the recovery efforts?

Yes! They helped build several infrastructures such as the Mary Dominic Mazzarello School in Pétion Ville and an orphanage in Croix-des-Bouquets, just outside of Port-au-Prince. The Sisters also supported their communities morally, in addition to financial contributions raised by the various schools and communities.

Has anything significant changed in Haiti because of the destruction caused by the earthquake?

The reconstruction is going at a slow pace, so it is difficult to say what has changed. However, one positive change is the way that Haitians perceive the disabled. The country is now adapting new construction to facilitate the lives of those with handicaps, whereas previously there was less openness and concern.

What would you like those outside of Haiti to know about your country, in light of all the attention the earthquake received?

We Haitians who have survived the earthquake of January 12, 2010, will never forget those 35 seconds. However, we need to rebuild our country, so we cannot dwell on the past because we can’t control it.

What we can control is the future, and that is what we are trying to focus on. Those watching from outside should know that we need their help to succeed in this feat. Our Haitian brothers who have left the country should know that Haiti needs all her sons. We are a people of extraordinary resilience, and we will fight to rebuild our country.

Save The Dates!Saturday, March 21

Fr. Peter M. Rinaldi Awards Dinnera benefit for Corpus Christi-Holy Rosary School

Willow Ridge Country Club, Harrison, NYInformation & tickets: please call (914) 937-4407

Sunday, March 22

Salesian Sisters’ Spring PartyMary Help of Christians Academy, N. Haledon, NJ

Thursday, April 30

Dames of Mary Help Luncheona benefit for Mary Help of Christians Academy

The Tides, North Haledon, NJInformation & tickets: please call (973) 904-0102

Sunday, July 12

Jubilarian CelebrationThe Tides, North Haledon, NJ

Wednesday, August 5

Sisters’ Profession of Vows Mary Help of Christians Academy, N. Haledon, NJ

Friday, October 2

Dames of Mary Help Annual Galaa benefit for Mary Help of Christians Academy

The Grove, Cedar Grove, NJ

Saturday-Sunday, November 14-15

Mary Help of Christians Academy’s 75th Anniversary Celebration

North Haledon, NJ

Saturday, November 21

Thanksgiving Basketa benefit for Villa Madonna School

& the Salesian Youth CenterTampa, FL

Sunday, December 13

Salesian Sisters’ Christmas Party Mary Help of Christians Academy, N. Haledon, NJ


Editor’s note: Young women who are in the first year of their formation program to become Salesian Sisters are called “Aspirants.” We invited our four Aspirants to share with readers of Partners in Giving a reflection on their desire to explore a vocation. All of these young women bring their own special gifts together with their dream to become a Salesian Sister. They want to deepen their love and commitment to Christ in order to bring His love to others, especially to young people at risk. We offer them our prayer and support on their vocational journey and we wish them well as they learn and live the Salesian charism in community and among the young.

I met the Salesians when I was 14 years old on a summer retreat in my diocese. Where I live you

never see Sisters, so thinking about becoming a Sister was something no girl I knew ever considered. Luckily, my parents always encouraged my siblings and me to be open to see if we had a religious vocation.

I met Sr. Colleen Clair and Sr. Loretta De Dominicis; they weren’t like any of the other Sisters there. I felt drawn to them but I didn’t exactly know why. I thought they were really cool, but I did not want to be a religious Sister. I wanted to get married and have a big family like my parents did; that was what I kept telling myself whenever the topic of vocations came up. The old ladies at my church would always tell me that I would be a great Sister.

I kept in contact with Sr. Colleen over the years and, when I was a junior in high school, a friend of mine was going on a “Come & See” with the Salesians and encouraged me to go. I did, and felt at home. I felt God tugging on my heart, telling me that this is where He wanted me to be –

but I ignored it because I was afraid.

During the next year I graduated high school and was making plans to start school the next fall, but I just wasn’t at peace with my decision. That May I went to visit another order, but felt like I didn’t belong there at all. I decided to go on another “Come & See” with the Salesians. I felt so much peace, and I wanted to stay.

There have been some challenges since I’ve been here, but I am the

happiest I’ve ever been. I’m excited to see what future plans God has for me.

– Molly Heine, Huntley, IL

I am the fourth of five children. My parents have been married to each other for almost forty years. Their

faith shines through their marriage. My Mom and Dad humbly emphasize their daily need to turn to God to help them grow in their love for each other, and I think the height of my family members is a good measurement of their unconditional love!

I came to know the Salesian Sisters later in life. Two years after I graduated high school, I was helping lead a Catholic Youth Conference when I met Sr. Eileen Tickner and Sr. Colleen Clair. I was fascinated by their enthusiasm and the charism, but the retreat ended and I went

home without giving much thought to religious life. Sr. Colleen returned to the retreat the next summer and talked to me about religious life, something that I had only considered in my dreams. Honestly, the thought scared me, and it took me three years to tell my family that I wanted to pursue religious life. My parents were cautious at first, but they have my back and are my biggest cheerleaders! My siblings are very excited for me and proud that I am pursuing religious life.

Almost every day God shows me a little something that tells me that I am where I am supposed to be right now. I may have doubts and may feel discouraged, but I know that I have God, family, friends, and an army of prayer “warriors” at my back. Those feelings of certainty may change tomorrow, but I know that whatever happens: I am Salesian!

– Maria Vivona, Louisville, KY

“And what do you want to be, Dylana?” asked Madame Elaine, our

kindergarten teacher. I responded with the normal optimism possessed by a kid of five years: “Probably an archaeologist; maybe a librarian?” At that point, and until I was starting high school, becoming a Sister was not on my radar. Really, I had no idea what a nun even was. There weren’t any in Lake Charles, LA. Then everything changed when I listened to a voicemail left by Sr. Colleen.

I think she got my number from a survey I filled out online. She just happened to be in New Orleans at the time, so that night she made the three-hour trek to my house in rural

Making Vocation! Headlines Around the Province

“I am the happiest I’ve ever been”

“Almost every day God shows me a little

something that tells me that I am where I am

supposed to be right now.”

Louisiana. She met my parents (who loved her) and introduced me to the charism. I felt so much joy; at one point, I even said to myself, “I could do this.” But fear got in the way.

Two years passed, and I realized that junior year was ending and summer was coming. I had been dreaming of becoming a junior camp counselor in North Carolina, but as I filled out the application I felt a total sense of unrest. The process was repeated a few times with different camps.

Finally, I opened Facebook to message an old friend. “Hey, Sister! It’s been a while. Do you know of any summer camps that are still accepting volunteers? I’m willing to travel.”Sr. Colleen replied, “Well, we actually have a summer camp here in New Jersey! If you’re interested...”

Application filled out, bags packed, and sitting on a plane bound for New Jersey – I was on my way to summer camp. The summer was amazing. I felt joy and peace, even on days when I was tired or stressed. Near the end of the summer I broke the promise I had made my freshman year, and asked

Sr. Colleen if I could join. I finished my senior year, graduated, had an amazing summer with my family and friends, and entered the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians.

Life here isn’t always easy, but there is always an opportunity to find Jesus in the little things.

– Dylana Smith, Lake Charles, LA

My name is Anastasia Bragg, and Jeremiah 29:11-14 is one of my favorite Bible

passages: “For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for woe, so as to give you a future of hope. When you call me, and come and pray to me, I will listen to you. When you look for me, you will find me, yes, when you seek me with all your heart, I will let you find me, says the Lord.”

I entered the Salesian Sisters in August 2014 as an Aspirant to discover God’s great plan for my life. Aspirancy is the first year of formation, and it is a beautiful time of discerning your vocation. God has

some special mission in mind when He creates each one of us, and right now I am asking him if religious life is part of the mission that He had in mind when He created me.

God has blessed me in many ways throughout my life and during my discernment. I am the second of nine children and the only girl, and I cannot even start to say how much I have been blessed by my family and, especially, by my beautiful, rambunctious brothers! I have experienced God’s love in a very powerful way through the dynamics and the love of my family; and also through the dynamics and love of the Salesian family.

I praise God for the blessings He has poured out upon me, and I’m excited to be able to share those blessings with others through my vocation.

– Anastasia Bragg, Gaylord, MI

To learn more about vocations and becoming a Salesian Sister, please e-mail our Vocations Director, Sr. Colleen Clair: [email protected], or visit www.salesiansisters.org or www.facebook.com/happynun.

Our Aspirants: Maria Vivona, Molly Heine, Anastasia Bragg, and Dylana Smith

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

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

My husband Elmer and I are so thankful to continue to adopt Sr. Maryann Schaefer and

be a part of your Adopt a Sister Program. We started over 14 years ago in memory of my dear Dad, and now we include my beloved Mom who so suddenly and sadly passed away two years ago – I miss them both so much! I always enjoy reading Partners in Giving; it keeps me up-to-date on the good works of all you Salesian Sisters! Linda Dolqueist, Absecon, NJ

News from Adopters Like You!

My mother, Virginia, passed away suddenly in August. I would like to continue her practice of “Adopt a

Sister.” Please enroll me in my dear mother’s place.San Carlos, CA

Our month has been better than expected, and so we are able to send a gift for your Adopt a Sister Program.

One of the things we are grateful for this year is that we are able to do this. The Sisters have had a positive impact on both our lives and we are thankful that we can give back.

Durango, CO

We are grateful and honored to have Sr. Claire Perino as our Adopted Sister. We pray for her as she prays

for the intentions for out family, especially for my husband who has prostate cancer. I am also very ill.

Paramus, NJ

“Grazie” for all your prayers during the past year. You and your Sisters have been doing such a good job

I decided to give them a “raise”, from $160 to $200, as I renew my “Adopted Sisters” for the year 2015.

San Francisco, CA

Partners Circle “Stewards”

Annual gift of $11,000

FloridaHeidi & Mark Oliva PC

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

FloridaDr. & Mrs. Vincent BagliMr. & Mrs. Ray Campo

Mr. & Mrs. 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

FloridaIn memory of

Henrietta Veronica Schmoll Rauenhorst

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 $550, and are listed on these three pages. Won’t you consider joining this

dynamic group in 2015, our 24th year?

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

Welcome

11new or upgradedPartners Circle

Members so far in 2015!

Shown in RED

11new upgraded

PC = A member of the Partners Circle National

Board of Trustees

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Mr. & Mrs. Gene PerezMr. Charles B. Schmalz

GeorgiaMr. Robert Reiter

MassachusettsMr. & Mrs. Dennis ClairMr. & Mrs. Neil Holmes

MissouriMs. Marianne O’Doherty

New JerseyMs. Debi F. Debiak

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

Mr. & Mrs. Dale Livi

CaliforniaMr. & Mrs. Robert Obenberger

ConnecticutLinda & Peter Christiansen PC

Mary Bridget GaineA Friend

FloridaMr. & Mrs. John Anello

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Caballero PCTerrell & Joe Clark

Dr. Andrea & Sean Farrier PCMrs. Aida Jurado

Mr. & Mrs. H. Tyson Lykes, IIMr. & Mrs. Jim Major

Mr. & Mrs. Frank MiddendorfLydia & John Oliva

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

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

A.J. & Mindy PapettiMr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer PC

Mr. & Mrs. Rodger RohdeRita M. Weiner

New YorkMr. Anthony J. Carroll

Mr. John Cassara

PennsylvaniaMr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow

FloridaMr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor PC

Mr. & Mrs. James MillarMr. John Oliva

New JerseyMr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis

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

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Harkins PCMr. Bill McLaughlin PC

FloridaDr. Idalia Lastra

New JerseyAl Daloisio

Railroad Construction

Partners Circle “Friends”

Annual gift of $3,300

Michael & Mary LosurdoMr. & Mrs. Brian McAuley

Kathleen & Vic MedoreMrs. Arline Monaco

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Massood

New YorkMs. Lea Battiato

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

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

PennsylvaniaMr. & Mrs. Bob DanchAllyson & Kevin Hardy

Lowry Murphey Family FoundationMr. Fredy Padovan

New JerseyMr. & Mrs. John Connors

Mr. & Mrs. Donald HoffmanMr. & Mrs. Joseph LaudoneMr. & Mrs. Joseph Massood

Mr. & Mrs. Michael MassoodMs. Antonia P. Meola

Mrs. Moira McBride MurphyMr. & Mrs. Stephen Papetti

Ms. Rose Perone

CaliforniaMrs. Maryann Roman

ConnecticutMr. Michael Guarnieri PC

Christina & David McAleer PCDr. Joseph McAleer PC

Mr. & Mrs. Salvatore Zichichi

FloridaMrs. Janis Boyd

Anthony & Diana Ekonomou

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

New YorkMs. Jordon Carroll

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala, Jr.

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.

ArizonaA Friend

Anonymous

CaliforniaMr. Ian H. Graham

Geraldine & Joanne Rizzuto

ConnecticutMr. & Mrs. Edward Goin

Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Mosey

FloridaMr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson

Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr. PCCarlos & Liana Baldor, Sr.,in memory of Ana MariaMr. James J. Burrowes

Mrs. Yoli BussDr. & Mrs. Robert Cano

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph CapitanoMrs. Trudy Carey

Dr. & Mrs. Antonio Castro Mr. & Mrs. J.C. De Lotto

Dr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria PCMr. & Mrs. Luis Garcia PC

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

Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. ReynoldsHon. Judge & Mrs.

E.J. Salcines PCMr. Joseph Tomaino

Ms. Maria C. TorreiroMr. & Mrs. Ron Yates

GeorgiaMr. & Mrs. Charles Fantauzza

IllinoisAdelaide Olivieri

MassachusettsMs. Patti Gauthier

Ms. Josephine PetrilloMr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading

New JerseyTiziana Anello, M.D.

Larry & Mary Anne ConditAnita Cronk

John Eccleston Dr. & Mrs. Louis Gambetta PC

Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Giamonco Mrs. Teresa Gutto

Ms. Laura Cosentino MannarinoMrs. Diva Muller

Mr. & Mrs. Bob O’HalloranMrs. Christine Peragallo

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph PiotrowskiMr. & Mrs. Cameron Reid

Emanuel N. Sarantis Mrs. John Soldoveri

Mr. & Mrs. William StuartMs. Kathleen Zayatz

New YorkMichael & Jeanette Altamura

Mr. & Mrs. Jack BetwardaMr. Charles Brown

Kevin & Kathy ClairMrs. Rose Mary Clair

Terence & Patricia ClairAlma & Charlie Curcio

Ms. Claire DellMr. & Mrs. Mario Masciandaro

Mr. & Mrs. Mark NardoneMrs. Joan Oliver

Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec

Partners Circle “Members” Annual gift of $550

Partners Circle

“Associates” Annual gift of $825

FloridaMr. Declan MansfieldFred & Anne Michaels

Mr. & Mrs. Rene Rodriguez

LouisianaMr. John Keller

New JerseyMr. Anthony B. Della Cerra

New YorkMr. Walter Lazarcheck

Mrs. Helen Leahy

North CarolinaMr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard

Mr. Chester F. Michewicz, Jr.

OhioMr. & Mrs. Dan ClairDale & Lynda Kovach

PennsylvaniaMr. & Mrs. Jack Hedgecock

South CarolinaAnonymous

TexasMr. & Mrs. Bill Locklier

VirginiaMrs. Dominique FaustMr. Michael Maurer

Mr. & Mrs. Karl Zauner

PC = A member of the Partners Circle National

Board of Trustees

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Charles SaggeseMrs. Elizabeth H. Saggese

Angeline SolazzoMrs. Carmela Seminerio

Mr. & Mrs. John Gumino

Rose GalassoDr. and Mrs. James Cumella

Steven IerubinoMr. & Mrs. Alexander

R. Ierubino

Maria PietrowskiMr. Kenneth Pietrowski

Domenic TitmasMrs. Bernice Titmas

Nubzio IannelliMrs. Bernice Titmas

Harry Parker, Jr.Dr. & Mrs. Daniel Clair

Helen KuhnenMs. Jane Ollila

Valentine VenaMrs. Daniel Scotti

Florence L. O’DonnellMs. Carol Kasper

Camille D’Amato Kornutick

Ms. Carol Kasper

In Memory of Claus Hauer

NJPR Hospital & Medical Support Sevices

Mrs. Barbara Parmese

In Memory of Sr. Marion Vecchio, FMA

Mr. Joseph Vecchio

MemorialsReceived between December 5, 2014 and February 4, 2015

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 the Salesian Sisters and supports 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 Rinaldi

659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS

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Name – LIVING

Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMAMr. Harold Anton

The McAleer Family

Sr. Phyllis Neves, FMAMr. Harold Anton

Sr. Mildred Zanetti, FMA on her 95th Birthday

Mrs. Gaetana Acquaviva

Dorsett FamilyMr. and Mrs. David Dorsett

Virginia JonesMs. Louis Jones Jankovic

In Honor of Antonia Caberra

Jane and Mary Campion

Sofia GuerreroDr. & Mrs. Rafael

De La Riva

A LoveThat Lasts

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TributesReceived between December 5, 2014 and February 4, 2015

• •GIVE US THIS

Day

Please reserve this day/these days in 2015in honor of my special intention to support the Endowment for the St. Joseph Provincial Center for our Retired Sisters:

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Total enclosed@ $100 per day: $ ____________

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Please Help Our Retired Sisters In Need!

Please detach and mail in the enclosed envelope. Thank you!

This New Year, Please Give Us This Day!

Do you have a happy occasion you would like to share? The Salesian

Sisters will celebrate with you. Is it a time to celebrate a less-than-happy occasion? Our prayer for you on your special day will celebrate this event in your life. Have you someone to thank?

Then please “Give Us This Special Day”! All of us will help multiply this gratitude. Any and every event or person or situation that merits special attention will be publicized on a bulletin board outside our chapel on your special day. All the Salesian Sisters, on that day, will pray for that person, event, and/or situation and for the person who requests prayer for that special day.

Happy 200th Birthday, St. John Bosco! Sr. Carmen Morales

gets into the party spirit on the Saint’s feast day, January 31.


The Sisters enjoy taking part in your family’s joys and, also, helping with your sorrows. You have become part of our family, and that is a wonderful exchange of love and concern.

Our Lord has assured us, “Where two or three are gathered in My Name, I am among them.” What better assurance can we have?

Let this exchange of time be an example of our concern and love for one another. Please “Give Us This Day” by returning the form below. Thank you, and God bless you!


Salesian Youth Report

IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, MIAMI, FL – On January 30, the students of Immaculata-La Salle High joined students of St. John Neumann High School in Naples, FL, to celebrate St. John Bosco’s 200th birthday. The day started with a Mass celebrated by Fr. Abraham Feliciano, SDB, at St. Elizabeth Seton Church. Before the liturgy began, Don Bosco and the “Superhero Help Line” (above, right) set the theme for the day. We are all called to be saints, we are all called to be heroes. Following Mass, the 1,000 students, led by the drum lines of the two schools and aided by the Collier County Sheriff’s Department, paraded the half mile to St. John Neumann High where they participated in fellowship, food, family, and fun. All too soon, the pilgrims from Miami boarded their 16 buses and returned home.


Eight students shared the same Christmas wish: hope that financial aid would become

available to them so they could continue the school year at Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ. This worry hung over not only their heads but their families’ hearts as the full tuition scholarships they were originally awarded prior to the school year beginning became nonexistent, due to the deaths of their incredibly loyal and selfless donors.

With faith in our hearts, an end- of-year appeal was sent out asking for help to keep the dream of a quality Salesian education alive for these eight students. By the grace of God, we had a $33,500 match that was pledged, pushing us halfway to our goal. Within a couple of weeks, we had reached our goal of $67,000, guaranteeing continued education for these girls! And now, even better news: we received a single check of $25,000 from the Middendorf Family Foundation as a reserve, ensuring this would not happen again.

The greatest gifts we could have received was the genuine joy and gratitude from the students when they were given the great news of continued financial aid! Here is a bit of what these eight had to say:

“I was so shocked and saddened by the news of my sponsor’s

passing. I had such a special relationship with her, like a member of the family. I kept my focus on maintaining my good grades and my participation in school so that I could keep the promise I made to her of graduating with honors and attending college. – Elizabeth, 17

“As the oldest child of a single mother of five, I place the

highest priority on my education, as I know it will open doors for me in the

“When my Mom lost her job this year, she lost some

of herself too. Being able to come home and tell her that my tuition was completely paid for this year was the best gift I could have given her.” – Ashley, 15

“I have never had anyone pass away in my family, so hearing that my

sponsor did was heartbreaking. I was blessed to have him as my guardian angel on Earth and now my guardian angel in Heaven. I hope to make him proud and continue his legacy by becoming a sponsor to future students at Mary Help.” – Sandra, 17

“Attending Mary Help had always been a goal of

mine, but being raised only by my grandmother, I knew that, without a scholarship, it would be unattainable. I worked very hard and was so excited to find out that I had not only received a scholarship but that my grandmother wouldn’t have to pay a penny for me to attend my dream school. I love this school so much and I can’t wait to see what is in store for me at Mary Help in the next three years.” – Sonia, 14

“My parents work hard to provide my siblings and I

with as much as they can; however, they both work minimum wage jobs that barely keep a roof over our heads and food on the table. They have always placed a high value on education because they wanted their children to have the education they never received. At Mary Help, I pride myself on being a good student and an active one, volunteering with community programs to give back a portion of what has been given to me.” – Maria, 17

For more information on supporting scholarships at a Salesian School, please visit www.salesiansisters.org or call toll-free (877) OUR-NUNS.

A Christmas Miracle at Mary Help!future that will help me to give back to my mother all she has given to me. I am truly humble and appreciative that complete strangers came together to make sure that I was able to stay in school.” – Andrea, 16

“My mother has recently been diagnosed with cancer, so

I had to step up and help raise my three younger brothers. When I was

told about how my tuition was going to paid this year, it brought tears to my eyes. People that could not even pick me out of a crowd cared enough to keep me and my friends in school. It just lit this passion in me to do the best I could to show them their effort was not wasted.” – Annabelle, 14

“It has been just me and my Dad for six years since my mother

passed away. As an only child, coming to Mary Help was like a breath of fresh air. Instantly, I had over 30 Sisters I could lean and rely on. I can’t wait to continue my education and strengthen my relationship with girls I know I’ll be friends with for a lifetime.” – Susie, 13

“Attending Mary Help had always been a goal of mine but being raised

only by my grandmother, I knew that without a

scholarship, it would be unattainable.”



ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, MARRERO, LA – Members of the Academy of Our Lady Right to Life Club participated in the annual March for Life on January 22 in Washington D.C. Students journeyed hundreds of miles to give a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves. Well done, everyone!

THE AUXILIUM SCHOOL, NEWTON, NJ – Sussex County Library visits the Auxilium School every month. The children enjoy listening to stories and doing crafts associated with the story. Each class has a chance to answer questions and talk about what they learned. At right, Class 4D listens to Jenise Sileo of the Sussex County Library as she reads a story to them.


MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, N. HALEDON, NJ – Mary Help students joined hundreds of thousands of pro-life activists for the annual March for Life on January 22 in Washington, D.C. Senior Mary Claire Hemmer writes:

“January 22, 2015 marked the 42nd anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the

Supreme Court decision which protected a woman’s right to choose abortion. As devout Catholics who respect all life created by God, girls from Mary Help and boys from Don Bosco Prep decided to go as a group to the March for Life in Washington, D.C. to protest this decision.

“The schools met at the Mary Help chapel at 5:45 a.m. to celebrate Mass together, and ate a quick breakfast of bagels and apple juice before heading down to D.C. Upon arrival, the students and chaperones were astounded by the number of people present for this peaceful protest. Hundreds of thousands of people


from all around the country came to fight against abortion for all those who never had a chance to. Salesians from New Jersey, New York, Florida, and Louisiana all had an opportunity to meet up outside the Museum of Natural History before the March, and unite in this fight for life. It was sincerely beautiful to witness God’s overwhelming presence in the way that the Salesian family came together to advocate for the unborn.

“Following the March, there was plenty of time on the bus ride home to

reflect on this eye-opening experience. Seeing so many people come together to fight for the same cause was extremely enlightening, and it gave everyone a new sense of hope that it is possible to win this battle.

“As the day came to an end, the students were challenged to pray hard every day for the unborn and the mothers carrying them, and for an end to this horrific crime. Although the March for Life is an excellent protest, it is imperative that this battle for life be fought every single day until it is over.”


VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, TAMPA, FL – What better way to celebrate St. John Bosco and his Italian heritage than for Villa Madonna students to create an Italian flag in the parking lot, with bands of green, white, and red!

Also in January (below), second graders at Villa Madonna School had a Reconciliation Retreat as they are preparing to receive the Sacrament in May. Sr. Nivia Arias, herself a Villa Madonna alumna, led the retreat. The children had a lot of fun, and learned that Reconciliation – also called the Sacrament of Penance or Confession – heals their hearts.




ST. THERESA SCHOOL, KENILWORTH, NJ – Each month, Principal Sr. Helene Godin awards “Student of the Month” certificates, given to students who show school spirit by putting others before themselves. Congratulations to the December winners: (front row) Sydney Phillips, Isabelle Gorombey-Kelly, Olivia Correia, Thomas Simon, Daniel Barnes, and Nicole Santoro; (back row) Sean Meehan, Gabriella Ronquillo, Jessica Kunigelis, and Samantha Siccardi. Missing: Luciana DellaPietra and Rhayane Koblinger.

ST. JOHN CATHOLIC NEWMAN CENTER, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS – From January 11-18, eight students from the St. John Catholic Newman Center travelled with Sr. Maryann Schaefer and Fr. Bill Bucciferro to Miami, FL, to work side-by-side with the Missionary Sisters of Charity and at Camillus House. There they met past pupils, benefactors, and the Miami Salesian Cooperators. Warm weather but, above all, warm hearts!



MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – On January 29, students involved in Mary Help’s Linguistics program took a trip to Columbia University in New York City to participate in the North American Computational Linguistics Olympiad (NACLO). NACLO is a contest in which high-school students solve linguistic puzzles using logical skills to connect languages. The contest was three hours long and required the Mary Helpers to put their problem-solving skills to the test. Afterwards, they celebrated with enormous slices of pizza (!) for lunch, and then headed back to Mary Help, ready to compete again next year. Well done, all!



SALESIAN YOUTH CENTER/ BOYS & GIRLS CLUB, TAMPA, FL – Plenty of smiles at SYC! On December 19, children enjoyed a great Christmas party, complete with Santa, games, food, and presents! Thank you to all who donated to make this a great Christmas for the children of Tampa who need it most! Then on February 1, United Way Reading Pals brought everyone’s favorite, Clifford the Big Red Dog, to the Center for a surprise visit in celebration of the 100th day of school. The kids had fun with reading and math activities, such as counting out 100 pieces of cereal and listening to books. A good time was had by all. Thanks a bunch, Clifford!



VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, TAMPA, FL – The first graders in Mrs. Yarnold’s class at Villa Madonna got “dressed for success” for Career Day during Catholic Schools Week. Looking good, kids!

MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – Calling all artists! Congratulations to students who exhibited their work at the William Paterson University “Art Start” Exhibit. The girls were accompanied by Ms. Vanessa Campos, their art instructor.

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

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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

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Editorial BoardDr. Joseph McAleer, Editor

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

Sr. Mary Terzo, FMA, Editorial Assistant

Federal Tax ID # 22-6043753© 2015 Missionary Society of Salesian Sisters, Inc.

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

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24 • Partners in Giving • Winter 2015

St. John Bosco – a.k.a. eighth grader Daniel Pokornicki, made a special appearance at Don Bosco Fun Night at Corpus Christi-Holy Rosary School

in Port Chester, NY. The event, organized by Sr. Margaret Rose Buonaiuto with the eighth-grade Confirmation students of the school and the parish religious education program, was a kick-off celebration for Catholic Schools Week. Above, Sr. Theresa Lee, principal, and happy students joined “Don Bosco” for the fun.

partners in giving winter 2015

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