winter 2008 partners in giving

PARTNERS IN GIVINGDevelopment Office of the Salesian Sisters

Daughters of Mary Help of Christians

www.salesiansisters.org

PARTNERS IN GIVINGDevelopment Office of the Salesian Sisters

Daughters of Mary Help of Christians

www.salesiansisters.org

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDClifton, NJ

Permit No. 1104

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

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

Sr. MaryRinaldi’s

LetterDear Friends,

We welcome the New Year in a spirit of praiseand gratitude! Praise is the form of prayerwhich recognizes that God is God and itglorifies Him. Gratitude is that attitude of mindand heart which helps us to recognize our placein creation. It is with these sentiments that I joinmy Salesian Sisters in wishing you a trulyblessed and happy 2008.

The extraordinary photo across the front andback covers of this issue dates from 1941. It isone of the many treasures which we will besharing with you this year, as we open the doorto the celebration of our centenary in theUnited States. You will be able to stay tuned toevents and stories throughout the year via ourwebsite, www.salesiansisters.org, and right herein Partners in Giving. For starters, mark yourcalendars for the special events listed at right,and plan on joining us as we celebrate 100 years– a real milestone for the Salesian Sisters!

Our own Sr. Josephine Carini researched andwrote the story of our 100 years with its growingpains, expansion of ministry to the young, joys,sorrows, and real-life incidents. The CentennialHistory Book will be available by year’s end. Thestory on page 3 offers a sneak peak.

The year 2007 brought new friends, leading toeven greater success in our work for the young,from North, South, East and West. From thebottom of our hearts, THANK YOU!

I close this simple New Year’s message with an inspiring quote from an anonymous writer: “ANew Year is unfolding, like a blossom with petalsclosed tightly concealing the beauty within.”

God bless you,

Centenary CalendarSave these Dates!

January 31, Feast of Saint John BoscoSalesian Sisters Centennial Youth Rally

New Orleans, LA

March 1Partners Circle Annual Meeting and Dinner

Tampa, FL

March 8Unveiling of a commemorative plaque,

Opening Mass, Museum Exhibit, & Reception,Saint Michael Parish, Paterson, NJ

April 11Celebration,

Pope Pius X School Roseto, PA

April 13Annual Spring Party

North Haledon, NJ

July 16Official anniversary

date of the first four Salesian Sisters’

arrival in the U.S.at New York Harbor

in 1908.

August 3Sisters’ Jubilee Celebration, North Haledon, NJ

October 30Annual Partners Circle Ball, Garfield, NJ

November (date TBA)Thanksgiving Basket, Tampa, FL

December 7Annual Christmas Party, North Haledon, NJ

For more information on any of these events,to attend, or to get involved, please call

Sr. Mary Rinaldi toll-free: (877) 687-6867,or e-mail [email protected].

We hope to see you!

Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org Partners in Giving • Winter 2008 • 3

MAKING HEADLINES AROUND THE PROVINCE

Our Centennial Year Celebration Begins!Editor’s note: It’s a New Year, and avery special year for the Salesian Sistersof Saint John Bosco: the 100thanniversary of their arrival in theUnited States! Over the next year, wewill be introducing you to the Sisters’rich history and the incredible impactthey have made on families across thecountry – a story that will be told in ourCentennial History Book (see page 4).

Our Founders & History

Saint John Bosco and SaintMary Domenica Mazzarellowere the chosen instruments

of God whose work, begun in thelate 19th century, rapidly spreadinto a worldwide family dedicatedto young people. Don Bosco’sdream was to teach the youngpractical life skills, and to nurturetheir hearts with the experience ofGod’s love. For over twenty years heworked only with boys. Then Mary,in one of his dreams, made it clearthat girls “were her children, too.”

It was at that point that the HolySpirit brought Don Bosco and MaryMazzarello together. Her presenceand work with the girls in her townresonated in many striking ways withhis work for boys. But above andbeyond the work itself, Don Boscowas deeply impressed by the selflessdedication that motivated her.

From this spirit-filled encounter, theDaughters of Mary Help ofChristians were born in 1872. Thework begun by Saint John Boscoand Saint Mary Mazzarello in thelate 19th century rapidly spread intoa worldwide family dedicated to theservice of youth.

Our Arrival in the U.S.

On July 16, 1908, the firstfour missionary SalesianSisters arrived in New York

City. They settled at Saint MichaelParish in Paterson, NJ, to begintheir ministry with the children ofItalian immigrants.

The beginnings were challenging.Their new home consisted of threebare rooms, no furniture and apartial roof. They had no food oftheir own, nor a stove, and dependedon the rectory for meals. Their diet

was Spartan but the diresituation surprised noneof them. Work, priva-tion, and sacrifice hadbeen foreseen as part oftheir offering to theLord for the fruitfulnessof the mission.

For many years therewould even be Sisterlyrivalry to see whocould get along withthe least for herself sothe others could havemore; who could doextra work so the otherscould have a bit of rest.

With courage, self-forgetfulness, andcreativity they wereable to overcome themany challenges thatcome with the totalgiving of one’s life tothe Lord. God blessedtheir sacrifices, and theSisters were able toestablish schools and

youth centers for the Christianeducation of the young, not only inPaterson but throughout the U.S.

In July 2008, it will be 100 yearssince the arrival of the first fourSalesian Sisters. We continue to beactively engaged in ministering toyouth and with youth, especially thepoor and marginalized. And we relyon the support of all of you!

As our centennial theme goes,“Celebrating Youth . . . Buildingthe Future!

On July 16, 1908, four Salesian Sisters arrived in New YorkHarbor, and the ministry in the United States began.

Sr. Angelina Andorno, seated (died 1953), is joined by(l-r) Sr. Veneranda Zammit (died 1934); Sr. Antoinette

Agliardi (died 1965); and Sr. Frances Delfino (died 1967).Sr. Angelina, Sr. Antoinette, and Sr. Frances are also shown

in the 1941 photo on our cover, in the front row.



Our 18th Christmas Party was the Best!

On December 9, the SalesianSisters hosted their 18thannual Christmas Party in

North Haledon, NJ, to benefit thefinancial aid fund at Mary Help ofChristians Academy. The eventraised an all-time record of $82,000to support deserving young womenfrom inner-city Paterson and beyond.

Event co-chairs Pat Connors andTerry Laudone led the magnificentcharge by securing countless donateditems that could be used for our giftbaskets as well as items for the large,super, and mega-raffle tables.

More than 600 guestsfrom the tri-state areaand beyond joined inthe fun. Santa (KevinMosca of Paterson)even made an appear-ance! Our largestgroup came fromPaterson – 75 familyand friends of CrownRoll Leaf, Inc.,present thanks to the

kindness of Presidentand CEO, Maggie Waitts. Wow!That reservation set a new record,too.

Heartfelt thanks to Pat and JohnConnors and Terry and JoeLaudone for their friendship andsteadfast support. You are a blessingto us and to the young women ofMary Help! Thank you, thank you,thank you for ALL you do!

Thank you, too, to the many friendsof the Salesian Sisters who donatedan item or two – and helped usmake this our best Christmas party

Above, Sr. Frances Gumino and Fr. Steve Ryan share theChristmas spirit with Carmela Seminario of Totowa, NY,

Annmarie Hessenius of Totowa, NJ, Angelo Forta of Rye Brook,NY, and Michelle Racanelli of Wallington, NJ.

Right, the Christmas Party would not be such a success withoutthe help of Terry Laudone and Pat Connors of Wyckoff, NJ.

Below, Long-time supporters of the Christmas Party, JosephLaudone (far left) and John Connors (far right) of Wyckoff, NJ,share some Christmas cheer with Fred Michaels of Pocono Pines,

PA, and Mike Corcoran of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ.


Above, Sr. Gerard Barratino with her dear niece,Joan Oliver, of Yonkers, NY.

Right, Salesian Sisters Development staffer Irene Damiano (far left) of Prospect Park, NJ,

with faithful Christmas Party volunteers: Sofia Stuart of West Milford, NJ,

Loretta Sagan of Clifton, NJ, and Marge Hnath of Wayne, NJ.

Thank you, ladies, for another outstanding celebration!

Right, Angela Larca

of Wyckoff, NJ,and William Stuart of

West Milford, NJ,helped immensely with

ticket sales at ourChristmas Party!

Right, Enjoying the Christmas Party were Salesian past pupil and friend Alma Curcio of Commack, NY, and Sr. Mildred Zanetti.

Below, A happy trio: Sr. Suzanne Dauwalter, Barbara Hedgecock of Wayne, PA,

and Sr. Maureen-Rose of South Philadelphia, PA

Left, Dame of Mary Help

and Salesian past pupilDebi Debiak

of Montclair, NJ, with her son,

Palmer Holland.


Join the Celebration!Please support Our Centennial

History Book by Dedicating a Year!Dear Friends,

We Salesian Sisters have just completed 99 years of service to the young in the United States. On the threshold of celebrating our Centennial, I invite youto invest in the Salesian Sisters by dedicating a year or years to honor ormemorialize a loved one, couple, family, or institution. The name(s) will beinscribed in a beautifully-bound Centennial History Book that is tocommemorate the Salesian Sisters’ presence in the United States.

Your one-time gift of $1,000, per year selected, will help underwrite the cost of this important Salesiantreasure, and your honored name(s) will forever be a part of the legacy of St. John Bosco here in America. Ingratitude, you will receive a complimentary copy of the Centennial history for each person’s name inscribed,and your memorial will be published in the book itself, along with a photo of your honoree.

On the opposite page is a list of years. As you can see, we have already received a number of dedications –thank you! There is no limit to the number of honorees per year.

Please join us for this once in a lifetime event!

With gratitude and prayer,

Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA

q I/we would like to forever be a part of the legacy of St. John Bosco here in Americaby dedicating ____ year(s) for the Salesian Sisters’ Centennial History Book Project. Pleasewrite down the name of your loved one(s) and your name (how you would like it to appear) beside the year of yourchoosing in the form on the opposite page and return the form along with this. Cost per dedication: $1,000.

My gift of $____________ is to be paid q now q monthly q quarterly q over 2 years

by: q Check (payable to Salesian Sisters) q Discover q VISA qMasterCard q Please charge my card automatically

Credit Card No. ___________________________________ Exp. Date ______ / ______

Name(s) ________________________________________________________________________________

Address _______________________________________________________________________________

City ________________________________________________ State ____________ Zip ____________

Telephone _________________________ E-mail ____________________________________________

PLEASE DETACH & MAIL IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. THANK YOU!

1908 Casimiro Hernandez, Sr.Richard Gonzmart, Columbia Restaurant

1909 Jerry Rizzuto Joanne & Geraldine Rizzuto19101911 Theresa Rizzuto Joanne & Geraldine Rizzuto19121913191419151916191719181919192019211922 Margaret & James Sartoris Bishop Joseph Sartoris1922 Anne Larywon Larywon Family19231924 Immaculate Conception School, LA

Faculty, Staff, Students1925 Anne K. Lebron Richard Lebron192619271928192919301931193219331934193519361937 Alyda Jansen Calamita Frank Calamita193819391940 Wilma & Ralph Rickman Beverly Parcasio194119421943194419451946194719481949 Elizabeth Heldak Betty Heldak195019511952 The Bagli Family Dr. & Mrs. Vincent J. Bagli19531954 Donald M. De Rose The De Rose Family195519561957 La Salle High School, FL La Salle Alumni1958 Immaculata-La Salle, FL Faculty, parents, et.al.19591960

19611962 Mom & Dad Michael Guarnieri1962 Bertha Levonas Joseph Levonas19631964196519661967 The Wagner Family

Bob, Cynthia, Tricia, Cindi, & Bobbi Ann1968196919701971 Alphonse Alagia The McAleer Family1972197319741975 Mannoia/Vitriola Family

Frances & Michael Mannoia197619771978 St. Theresa School, NJ Home School Assoc.1979 Arrival of the Salesian Sisters in Louisiana

Sisters Community of Marrero, LA1980198119821983198419851986 Lucy Alagia The McAleer Family1986 Donata & Adam Amatuzzi

Rose & Joseph Amatuzzi1986 Isola Olivieri Adelaide & Joseph Olivieri1987 Hope McAleer The McAleer Family198819891990199119921993 Fr. Peter M. Rinaldi, SDB The Martedi Family19941995199619971998199920002001 Joseph J. McAleer, Sr. The McAleer Family200220032004 Henry F. Roman Maryann Roman2005 In Gratitude to the Salesian Sisters

after Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana Faculty, Staff, Students of I.C. School

2006 N. Johannes I. Calamita Frank Calamita2007 Academy of Our Lady, LA Faculty & Students

Year Honoree Dedicated by Year Honoree Dedicated by

MARYLANDDr. & Mrs. Andrew Saladino

MASSACHUSETTSMs. Josephine Petrillo

Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading

NEW JERSEYMr. & Mrs. Gary Baccaro

Mr. & Mrs. Richard BadenhausenMr. & Mrs. Robert Boland Mr. & Mrs. Larry ConditMs. Elizabeth Crovella

Mr. & Mrs. Frank DaviesMr. Anthony B. Della CerraDr. & Mrs. Frank De Maria

Ms. Debi DebiakMr. & Mrs. Robert Fox

Mr. & Mrs. David FusacchiaMr. & Mrs. Jerry Giamonco

Captain & Mrs. Victor Goldberg Mrs. Theresa Gutto

Mr. & Mrs. Chris Layton Mr. & Mrs. Charles LechnerMr. & Mrs. Michael Losurdo

Ms. Laura MannarinoMr. & Mrs. Anthony MarangiMr. & Mrs. John Peragallo Jr.

Mrs. Ann PetrocelliMr. & Mrs. Joseph Piotrowski

Mr. & Mrs. Cameron ReidMrs. Amanda Rodriguez

Mr. & Mrs. John SoldoveriMr. Joseph Spinelli

Mr. & Mrs. William StuartTD Banknorth

Mr. & Mrs. Asterio Velasco

ARIZONAMs. Tonia Kempfer

A Friend

CALIFORNIAMr. Ian H. Graham

Mr. & Mrs. Robert ObenbergerA Friend

CONNECTICUTMr. Frank & Ms. Clara Merenda

Mr. & Mrs. Robert MoseyMr. Daniel Tomaselli

A FriendAnonymous

FLORIDAMr. & Mrs. Mark Anderson

Mr. & Mrs. Bernardo F. ArenasMr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Sr.Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Javier BaldorBianco & Mansfield, P.A.

Mr. James J. BurrowesMrs. Yoli Buss

Mrs. Trudy CareyDr. & Mrs. Antonio CastroColonial Bank of FloridaMr. & Mrs. Ted Couch

Mr. & Mrs. J.C. De LottoDr. & Mrs. Emilio Echevarria

Mr. & Mrs. Luis GarciaDr. & Mrs. Reynaldo Geerken

Mrs. Rose GrazianoDr. & Mrs. Jack Guggino

Mrs. Elsa Gutierrez-Janulionis Dr. & Mrs. Hernan Leon

Mr. & Mrs. H. Tyson Lykes, IIMr. & Mrs. Robert Mace, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Mark S. ReynoldsMr. & Mrs. Philip Rinaldi

Mrs. Peggy TheisMr. & Mrs. Ron Yates

Mr. & Mrs. Rene ZarateMr. Bob Zurek

GEORGIAMr. & Mrs. Charles Fantauzza

ILLINOISMr. & Mrs. Joseph Olivieri

KENTUCKYMr. & Mrs. Jack Danehy

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! Partners Circle “Members”: Annual gift of $500

NEW YORKMr. & Mrs. Jack Betwarda

Mr. Vincent CagnettaMrs. Joseph Clair

Mr. & Mrs. Charles CurcioMr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio, Jr.

Mr. Edward DeLucaMr. John Lombardi & Family

Ms. Carol MartindaleMs. Elizabeth Nardone

Mrs. Joan Oliver Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Roncallo

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

A Friend

NORTH CAROLINAMr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard

Mr. & Mrs. Chester Michewicz, Jr.

OHIOMr. & Mrs. Albert Klaben, Sr.

PENNSYLVANIAMr. & Mrs. Jack Hedgecock

Mr. Paul I. Sheaffer, II

TEXASMr. & Mrs. Bill Locklier

VIRGINIAMrs. Dominique Faust

WEST VIRGINIAMr. Guy Bucci

Students from Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon, NJ.Salesian Schools in four states benefit from Partners Circle funding.

The Partners Circle was founded in 1991 to provide unrestrictedfunds for urgent needs of the Salesian Sisters and theirmission. These include support for capital needs, scholarship

assistance, technology upgrades, and funds for those unforeseensituations that require immediate attention.

Your donation to this unrestricted fund empowers the Salesian Sistersto continue their mission – the education and evangelization oftoday’s children.

There are seven levels of membership, starting at $500, and these arelisted on these three pages. Won’t you consider joining this dynamicgroup? Please call us toll-free today: (877) OUR-NUNS.

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony LainoMr. & Mrs. Joseph Massood Mr. & Mrs. Brian McAuley

Mrs. John McMahonMr. & Mrs. Mario Monaco

Mr. & Mrs. Jim MullerMr. & Mrs. Joseph Palladino

Mr. & Mrs. Jack RamseyWeaver Marine Agencies

NEW YORKDr. & Mrs. Michael Altamura

Ms. Lea BattiatoMsgr. William T. RodgersMr. & Mrs. Matt Sabatine

NORTH CAROLINAMs. Marianne O’Doherty

PENNSYLVANIADr. Allyson & Mr. Kevin Hardy

TEXASMs. Theresa C. Rauber

ARIZONAA Friend

CALIFORNIAGeraldine & Joanne Rizzuto

CONNECTICUTMs. Mary Gaine

FLORIDADr. Braulio Alsonso

Mrs. Pilar CasoMs. Judith Cataldo/

The Handmaiden FoundationDr. & Mrs. Rod Jurado

Mr. & Mrs. James W. LeeDr. & Mrs. Hernan LeonMr. & Mrs. James Major

Mr. & Mrs. Frank MiddendorfMr. & Mrs. Gene Perez

Judge & Mrs. A. RodniteMr. & Mrs. Mark Spada

NEW JERSEYMs. Rosemarie D’Alessandro

Mr. Alfonso DaloisioMr. Al De VincenzoMrs. Joseph Festa

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell Mr. & Mrs. Donald Hofmann

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

CONNECTICUTMr. & Mrs. David McAleer

FLORIDAMr. & Mrs. Declan

Mansfield

NEW YORKMr. & Mrs. Bill Leahy

NEVADAMr. & Mrs. Timothy Murray

PartnersCircle

“Associates”Annual gift

of $750

ILLINOISMr. & Mrs. Larry Peterson

INDIANAMrs. Beatrice Lightfoot

NEW JERSEYTony Amato Family The Carini Family

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Hoffman

Mr. Anthony PetrocelliMs. Celeste Tripi

NEW YORKMrs. Pearl Kalikow

CALIFORNIARichard Meissner,

Meissner Manufacturing

FLORIDADr. & Mrs. Vincent Bagli

Mr. Ray CampoMr. & Mrs. Joseph Garcia

Angel Oliva FamilyMrs. Ann Murphey

Dorothy Thomas Foundation

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! Joseph J. McAleer, Sr., Heritage Society Major Bequests to the Partners Circle

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

Mr. & Mrs. Robert HarkinsMr. & Mrs. Bill McLaughlin

Mr. Stephen PapettiMr. & Mrs. Rodger Rohde

Ms. Roberta Ruocco

NEW YORKMr. John Cassara

TEXASMrs. Betty Turner

Mr. & Mrs. Ray Wooldridge

CALIFORNIAMs. Doriana Sobek

CONNECTICUTA Friend

FLORIDADr. & Mrs. Nelson Castellano

Mr. & Mrs. James MillarMr. & Mrs. Lee Pallardy

NEW JERSEYMr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis

“Stewards”Annual gift of $10,000

NEW JERSEYMarcalus Family

Foundation Robert R. Waitts

Foundation

NEW YORKThe Sabatine Foundation,

in memory ofPhilip & Josephine Sabatine

TEXASMr. & Mrs. Fritz Duda, Sr.

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph PfeiferMr. & Mrs. Mark Swartzberg

NEW YORKMs. Jordon Carroll

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala, Jr.

PENNSYLVANIAA Friend

SOUTH CAROLINAMr. & Mrs. Tom Aldinger

NEW JERSEYMr. & Mrs. Marco BrizzolaraMr. & Mrs. John Connors

Mr. Anthony GulinoMs. Ida Gulino

Ms. Nancy GulinoMr. & Mrs. Joseph Hoffman

Mr. & Mrs. Edward Korn Mr. & Mrs. Michael Massood

Mrs. Kathleen MedoreMs. Antonia Meola

Mrs Moira McBride MurphyMs. Rose Perone

CONNECTICUTMr. Michael Guarnieri

Dr. Joseph McAleer

FLORIDAMrs. Janis Boyd

Mr. Ernest “Cookie” GarciaDr. Idalia Lastra

MASSACHUSETTSMs. Patti Gauthier

Partners Circle “Founders”: Annual gift of $2,000


Leave a Legacy for the Salesian Sisterswhile providing for your heirs!

Charitable gifts made through your estate are a wonderful way to provide lasting supportfor the Salesian Sisters. It can be possible to make such gifts while you minimize taxesand/or settlement costs and conserve more of your estate for loved ones.

Here are some points to remember:

• Estate gifts can be funded with cash, securities, real estate, or other property.

• A gift of all or a portion of the “residue” of your estate refers to property remaining after alldistributions to family and others have been satisfied.

• Gifts may also be stated in terms of a percentage of an estate, thereby allowing gifts to increaseor decrease with the value of one’s estate.

• Gifts may also be directed to the Salesian Sisters from insurance policies, retirement plans, and bank and brokerage accounts.

• It is possible to designate how you would like your gift used when it is received. You may provide that funds be used to meet the immediate needs of the Sisters, or you can designate that they be used for a specific purpose, such as education of at-risk youth, summer camp programs, the Salesian Sisters’ retirement home, or vocations.

• Memorial gifts are often received through an estate. A memorial can serve as an enduring and loving tribute to one or more individuals while contributing a gift of hope to the Salesian Sisters.

As you can see, with a minimum of planning, it can be possible to support the Salesian Sisters in thefuture while first providing for your heirs in ways that can change with circumstances over time.

If you would like to leave a legacy, our legal title is Missionary Societyof Salesian Sisters, Inc., and our federal tax ID # is 22-6043753

For more information, please call:

• Sr. Mary Rinaldi, Director of Development: (877) OUR-NUNS

• Christina McAleer, Director of Advancement: (203) 921-9224

Salesian Sisters • 659 Belmont Avenue • North Haledon, NJ 07508-2301

Required to Take an IRA Distribution?

If you are over the age of 70 & 1/2 and you are required to take taxable distributions from a traditional or Roth IRA,

you may be interested in a special opportunity for tax-free giving to the Salesian Sisters. Please check with us

or your advisor for more information.


The Sisters at Saint Joseph’s Provincial Center in Haledon,NJ, sing joyfully as they await the celebration of the

coming of baby Jesus with a real-life Nativity scene, completewith choir of “angels.” Pictured above are (seated) Sr. MaryAnne Zito, Sr. Christine Hellen, Sr. Virginia D’Alessandro,Sr. Lydia Carini, Sr. Ruth Stecker, and Sr. Mary Baroni;(standing) Sr. Lucy Balistrieri, Sr. Rose Segarini, Sr. RufinaDelgado, Sr. Helene Godin, Sr. Carmen Morales, and Sr. Esther Cruz. The Holy Nativity was beautifully reenacted (at left) with Sr. Mary Winterscheidt as the Blessed VirginMary, Sr. Mildred Zanetti as Saint Joseph – and Sr. VirginiaDickey as the Star of Bethlehem!

On December 16, the community of NorthHaledon, NJ, along with the community of

Camp Auxilium, trekked to New York City tosee the Christmas Show at Radio City MusicHall, a wonderful present from Maggie Waitts.We loved it! Thank you!

Bundled up against the cold and snow are (backrow) Sr. Denise Sickinger, Sr. Danielle Gonzalez,Sr. Margaret Wilhelm, Sr. Susan Bagli, Sr. BettyAnn Martinez, and Sr. Cecilia Besi; (front row)Sr. Catherine Novo, Sr. Ana Palacios, Sr. MaryPalladino, Sr. Anita Durocher, Sr. CatherineAltamura, and Sr. Theresa Kelly. The starphotographer was Sr. Maryann Schaefer!


A New YearSr. Phyllis Neves’ Letter

Anew year is upon us . . . the traditionalmoment to review our life and resolve howto live better in this New Year of 2008.

Charlie Brown once expressed his opinion aboutpreparing for the New Year: “The best way to keepNew Year’s Resolutions is in a sealed envelope in abottom desk drawer.”

Charlie Brown was obviously not ready to deal withthe challenges and changes that a good resolutionmight pose. You and I, however, believe that Jesuscalls us to continually grow in our commitment tobe good citizens of this world as we journey towardour citizenship in Heaven.

Saint Paul, in his Letter to theColossians, shows us clearly what ourongoing resolution should look like:“Put on then, or clothe yourselves, asGod’s chosen ones, holy and beloved,with compassion, kindness, lowliness,meekness, and patience, bearing with one anotherand, if one has a complaint against another, forgivingeach other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you alsomust forgive. And above all these put on love, whichbinds everything together in perfect harmony. And letthe peace of Christ rule in your hearts.”

By allowing God to work within our lives, we canchange. We can grow closer to God and each other.

The beginning of a New Year is often shown likethis: an old man, wrapped in large flowing robes,dragging himself along like he’s not going to bearound much longer, is replaced by a small baby, fullof life, and clothed only in a diaper.

Erma Bombeck once commented on why a baby ina diaper is the symbol for the New Year: “MaybeLittle New Year is supposed to be a symbol ofinnocence, freshness, and optimism. Perhaps it isreasonable to believe that this baby in a diaper is areminder to shed some of the baggage and oldclothes of the last year. Maybe we shouldn’t have

any pockets holding namesof old adversaries to whomwe are not speaking – andcan’t even remember why.No shirts of self-pity thatwe’ve worn too manyyears without cleaning. Noglasses that allow us to seeall of our differences but none of our likenesses.Maybe we shouldn’t have any shoes that havewalked in the same ruts of old ideas and stubbornresistance to change for too many years. No luggageto kick along that holds years of yellowed andcrumbling prejudices toward people no longer alive.

No neckties or scarves to choke outlaughter or joy or words offorgiveness. Maybe we should be likea baby who has just entered theworld ready to celebrate and live lifeon its own terms. Maybe this childrepresents a newness, another chanceto grow, to develop, and to learn.”

Saint Paul helps us put it all together when he says:“Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everythingin the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to Godthe Father through Him.”

This is a New Year’s resolution we can all aspire to!

When the song of the angels is stilledWhen the star in the sky is gone

When the kings and the princes are homeWhen shepherds are back with their flocks

The work of Christmas beginsTo find the lost

To heal the brokenTo feed the hungry

To release the prisonersTo rebuild the nations

To bring peace among usTo make music in the heart

Howard Thurman, 1985

A Blessed New Year to all!

“A New Year’sresolution we can

all aspire to.”



Our Greenwich Visit – and a Surprise!

On October 28 and 29, Msgr. Frank C. Wissel, thepastor of Saint Mary Parish in Greenwich, CT,welcomed Sr. Mary Rinaldi and Salesian Sisters

from Corpus Christi School in neighboring Port Chester,NY, to help raise awareness and support for the schools’financial aid fund, as well as for the Sisters’ retirementand vocations funds. The Sisters were delighted to meetmany lovely parishioners who embraced their manyworks and purchased lovely handmade afghans.

A wonderful surprise occurred while visiting SaintMary’s. Two lovely women stepped forward andintroduced themselves, Vincenza Cianci and her sister,Rose Cianci Gasparrini of Greenwich. Why was this

meeting so special? Just months awayfrom the Salesian Sisters’ CentennialCelebration in 2008, we foundourselves face-to-face with two directdescendants of the priest whowelcomed the first four SalesianSisters to America from Italy in 1908! The great uncle ofVincenza and Rose was Msgr. Felix Cianci of SaintMichael Parish in Paterson, NJ. He was a dear friend andadvocate for the Sisters. He alone found shelter for them,giving them their first home in North America. Msgr.Cianci’s kindness set in motion the Salesian Sisters’mission to the poor here in America.

On behalf of the Salesian Sisters, thank you, Msgr.Wissel for your incredible kindness and hospitality. Whata very special weekend it was for all of us! God bless you.

– Christina McAleer

Above, Msgr. Frank Wissel of Saint Mary Parish in Greenwich, CT, extended a warm welcome to the Salesian Sisters,

including Sr. Agatha Cosentino, principal of Corpus Christi School;and Sr. Ines Molano, both bearing handmade afghans.

Left, Sr. Rosalie Di Peri greets Vincenza Cianci and Rose CianciGasparrini of Greenwich, whose great uncle, Msgr. Felix Cianci

(inset), hosted the very first Salesian Sisters in the U.S., 100 yearsago. What an amazing surprise to meet these charming ladies!

POPE JOHN PAUL II SCHOOL, CLIFTON, NJ –Pope John Paul II held an important meeting forparents concerning “Internet Safety and CellphoneUse.” The Passaic County Sheriff ’s Department,assisted by NetSmartz, made parents more aware ofthe dangers our children face while on the computerand cellphone.


You may nowadopt aSalesian

Sister to pray foryour deceased friendand family memberfor one year.

The certificate(shown here) willbe sent outimmediately. It is aone-time gift; thesuggested donation is $160. Adoption forms are posted online at: www.salesiansisters.org, or please call usto arrange: (877) OUR-NUNS.

MemorialsReceived between November 17, 2007 and January 2, 2008

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

Our Partners in Giving Memorials & Tributesgive you the opportunity to comfort thosewho have lost a loved one or tocommemorate a special occasion.

This gift lives forever. It supports the worksof the Salesian Sisters & joins your lovedones to the prayers & works of the Sisters.

The name of your loved one will appear inour Partners in Giving magazine – a pricelessgift to those you love.

Give the gift that lasts forever.

Enclosed is my Memorial/Tribute Gift of:

q$25 q$20 q$15 q$

Memorial for

Tribute for

Occasion

Please send an acknowledgement to:

Name

Address

My NameAddress

Detach & mail to Sr. Mary Rinaldi

659 Belmont Ave lNorth Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS

A LoveThat Lasts

Forever

Name – DECEASED

Name – LIVING

Mary SommarivaMr. & Mrs. Fred Brodsky

Victor Di MaioSalesian Sisters

Joseph TerzoSalesian Sisters

Vincent CiociMr. James Burrowes

Lorenza “Laurie” De LucaMr. & Mrs. James Rory

Margo NadalMr. & Mrs. Ovidio Mendez

Laura SirijMrs. Madeline D. Fitzgerald

Evelyn SchaeferSr. Theresa Kelly, FMA,

& the Salesian Sisters

TributesReceived between November 17, 2007 and January 2, 2008

Sr. Esther Cruz, FMAMrs. Marilyn Karlich

Charles LechnerMr. & Mrs. John Fischer

Sr. Gerard Barratino, FMAMary Bridget Gaine

& Family

Anne & Joe Garcia:50th WeddingAnniversary

Salesian Sisters


Please “Give Us” One Day This New Year!

Please give us one, two, or threedays out of the gift of 365!Won’t you consider it?

Think of one day when youremember a person for good, oldmemories. We will make a special daybecome even more meaningful byencircling the day with prayer andspecial remembrance.

The best way to create good yesterdaysis to say a bold, loving YES to all thateach day brings. Saying YES to God’splans in your life, asking for a lovedone, remembering an anniversary or abirthday, a special meeting day, or aspecial day of grace, can all be givenby the Salesian Sisters who join you inthanks, prayer, and special thoughts ofyou.

Which one of the 365 days God givesyou will you share with us? Thankyou, and God bless you!

q q

GIVE US THIS

Day

Please reserve this day(s) in 2008in 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 detach & mail this form to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, 659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508

Please Help Our Retired Sisters In Need!

On December 3, Salesian Sisters from the Saint Joseph Provincial Center in Haledon, NJ,were given a very special treat. John and Pat Connors and Terry Laudone had planned for

and provided an outing to the Christmas Show at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.The presentation was a marvel. It was heartwarming to see such a reverent, elegant, yet

simple portrayal of the birth of Christ. After the performance, at the invitation of our hosts,we gathered for a commemorative picture (above). The photographers had never seen quite acrowd and people around us snapped their own photos of our group! Will we ever return to

Radio City for other performances of the Nativity? Who knows . . . but this one will remainlike a precious jewel in our memory. Thank you, John and Pat and Terry and Joe!


The dreamer of our family wasno idler, building castles in theair. Given the special person

that he was, his dreams were equallyextraordinary.

Our “dreamer of dreams” was noneother than Saint John Bosco (alsoknown as Don Bosco). His“dreaming” continued for 60 years. Itbegan when he was a boy of nine,with a dream that he would onlyunderstand many years later.

It would be impossible to omit the vasttreasury of dreams from a biographyof Don Bosco, because they areintegral to his life and his ministry.

After a day of hard work,uninterrupted work onbehalf of his boys (a dayoften filled with problemsand pressures), DonBosco would fall asleepand immediately enterinto another world of ideasand visions that would stay within himuntil dawn, when he would ariseexhausted. Don Bosco’s life hoveredbetween the natural and thesupernatural. His dreams revealedGod’s will for him and his boys at theOratory as well as the future of theSalesian Congregation. Although DonBosco referred to these episodes asdreams, it seems obvious that they canbe called visions . . . visions whichgreatly influenced the decisions hemade and the direction hiscongregations took during his lifetime.

One may be asking at his point, “Howdo we know of his dreams?” DonBosco had confided his experiences toPope Pius IX who ordered him towrite down everything, and these

Family TreasuresThe Dreamer of Our Family

dream visions have beenpreserved for futuregenerations. We also knowof them from his boys andhis co-workers to whom henarrated his dreams andwho were careful to recordthem because they weregreatly esteemed asmessages from God. Theyoften foretold the futureand were always accuratein their predictions. Atother times, they revealed the souls ofthe boys to Don Bosco so he couldguide and help them.

I will share with you Don Bosco’sown words, the dream he had whenhe was nine. It was a dream that

formed the foundation forall his life and ministry.

“When I was about nineyears old, I had a dreamthat left a profound

impression on me for therest of my life. I was in a very largeplaying field where a crowd ofchildren were having fun. Some werelaughing, others were playing, and nota few were cursing. I was so shockedat their language that I jumped intotheir midst, swinging wildly andshouting at them to stop.

“At that moment, a Man appeared,nobly attired. He called me by nametold me to place myself as a leaderover those boys, adding the words,‘You will have to win these friends ofyours, not with blows, but withgentleness and kindness. So beginright now to show them that sin isugly and virtue, beautiful.’

“Confused and afraid, I replied that I

was only a boy and unableto talk to these youngstersabout religion. At thatmoment, I saw, beside him,a Lady of majestic appear-ance. Taking my hand withgreat kindness, she said,‘Look.’ All the childrenvanished. In their place, Isaw many animals. ‘This isyour field. This is whereyou must work,’ the Ladytold me. ‘Make yourself

humble, steadfast, and strong. Whatyou will see happen to these animals,you will have to do for my children.’

“I looked again. The wild animalshad turned into many lambs, gentlygamboling lambs, bleating a welcomefor that Man and Lady. At this pointin my dream, I started to cry andbegged the Lady to explain what it allmeant. She then placed her hand onmy head and said, ‘In due timeeverything will be clear to you.’

“I could never get that dream out ofmy head.”

It was only when Don Bosco wasadvanced in years did he understandfully the meaning of this dream, andhow he would come to transform thelives of young people. In themeantime, it served as a valid guidefor the development of his works andespecially of his method ofeducation, which relied on reason,religion, and loving kindness.

I hope I have given you anotherinsight into the many-faceted gemthat Jesus and Mary have given us inour Father and Founder, Don Bosco.

– Sr. Mary Terzo, FMA

“In due time,everything will

be clear.”


Salesian Youth Report

SALESIAN YOUTH CENTER/BOYS & GIRLS CLUB, TAMPA, FL – On December 18, the sun shined extra-brightly for many of Tampa’s kids. Thanks to our many SYC friends, the Salesian Sisters and staff were able to give thekids a wonderful Christmas party, Florida-style – a barbecue complete with hamburgers, hot dogs, and even presentsfrom Santa Claus! Although Santa came a little early to the SYC, the kids will remember this Christmas forever.

“Who wants a burger?” Sr. Mary Jackson and fellow SalesianYouth Center volunteers serve up the tasty Christmas barbecue.

Thanks to the generosity of our many friends and supporters, everychild who attends Salesian Youth Center programs received Christmas

presents this year, which they happily showed off to their friends.



IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL, MIAMI, FL – La Salle Center, an after-school program for thechildren of migrant workers in Homestead, FL, is funded and operated by the alumni of the Christian Brothers. OnDecember 14, they brought a group of children to Immaculata-La Salle High School for a day of fun and camaraderie.The children were hosted by the girls’ soccer team (above). What a wonderful day!

SAINT JOSEPH SCHOOL,TAMPA, FL – Saint Joseph’sannounces its varsity soccerteam! We are excited toparticipate with other diocesanschools in soccer matches. Weare proud to be directed byCoach Carmen Lusigan andCoach Tito Alvarez who haveput a lot of time and interestinto organizing the team,developing team skills, andgetting our school representedin match participation.Pictured at right are the proudmembers of the 2007-2008squad. Good luck!



CORPUS CHRISTI SCHOOL, PORT CHESTER, NY– Call it the “Fear Not Factor.” At Corpus ChristiSchool, the Angels (above) are dancing with joy at thebirth of Jesus. Finally God the Father sent His Son toearth to teach the people about His plan of Salvation forthem. This is how the Angels told the story.

Before the birth of Jesus took place, all the Angel Choirshad been waiting for years for this to happen. When thetime came, the Archangel Gabriel was chosen to bringthem to earth. The first message was to Mary, since Godhad chosen her to be the mother of Jesus. “Fear not, Mary:God has chosen you.” And Mary accepted God’s Plan.

ST. THERESA SCHOOL,KENILWORTH, NJ – The annual ThanksgivingMass was celebrated instyle, with Mrs. Morgese’sfifth-graders dressed asPilgrims and NativeAmericans. The childrenalso displayed some ofthe many food items they gathered which weredonated for distribution to needy families in thecommunity. God bless you,students!

The second message was to Joseph, the Carpenter whowas engaged to marry Mary. “Fear not, Joseph, to takeMary as your wife, for God has chosen her to be themother of His Son, who will save the people from theirsins.” And Joseph believed and accepted God’s Plan.

The third message was to the Shepherds watching theirsheep on the hills of Bethlehem. “Fear not, for a Savior isborn in a stable in Bethlehem. Go to see the place wherethe Child is.” When they arrived, all the choirs of Angelssang and danced with joy. And the Shepherds acceptedGod’s Plan and spread the Good News far and wide – asdid the Corpus Christi Angels!



MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY,NORTH HALEDON, NJ – Instrumental music isbecoming more and more popular at Mary Help.Above, Sr. Ana Palacios teaches sophomores thebasics of guitar playing. Students often performduring school Masses.

Below, Sr. Susan Bagli started the Healthcare Clubto meet the needs of students who are interested inmedicine, nursing, and other health-relatedprofessions. Students gain firsthand experience in areal lab setting. Membership continues to grow, andwe know that these young ladies are on the righttrack towards achieving their dreams!

THE ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, MARRERO, LA –Academy students continue to demonstrate the true spiritof giving in their service projects for the less fortunate.

In response to the recent devastating wildfires inCalifornia, the students started a drive to collect toiletriesand personal items to be given to the thousands of peoplewho were displaced from their homes. Students put out acall to the community and collected dozens of boxes.The Religion 4 classes accepted this as a service projectthat was guided by the Senior Class.

The student body also took part in an exciting fundraisingproject called “Penny Wars” to benefit “Families HelpingFamilies,” a program which has been adopted by theLouisiana Association of Student Councils as its officialcharity for 2007-08. The Academy’s student councilassigned each grade level a huge, plastic bottle to collectpennies for one week. These pennies build up and aretotaled each day, and a lively competition ensues betweenthe grade levels to see which can collect the highest total.

The real fun comes when students donate nickels, dimes,and quarters, as all “silver” coins are deducted from eachgrade’s fundraising total. Of course, all of the coins gotowards the school’s grand total for the fund raiser. Thisyear, all of those little coins collected in plastic jugstotaled up to $2,200 which was donated to “FamiliesHelping Families.”

– Joseph Bordlee

Beth Carbo, Academy of Our Lady senior, pours out just a few ofthe many thousands of pennies collected to benefit Families Helping

Families in the Academy’s annual “Penny War” fundraiser.



Students Learn to Share Their Faith

In an effort to respond to one ofthe most important needs of thecatechetical ministry of the

Catholic Church in our area, aformation program is being offered tostudents at Mary Help of ChristiansAcademy in North Haledon, NJ, whoare interested in being prepared toserve as parish catechists. Some of theprogram’s 25 students are alreadyhelping as teacher aides, substitutes,and, in some cases, as catechists.

The goal of this program is to enablethe students to grow in their own faithwhile preparing them to share theirfaith with children in their Parish FaithFormation Program for Catholicchildren who attend public schools.The program has been approved by thePaterson Diocesan Catechetical Officeand will lead to a Diocesan Catecheti-cal Certificate upon completion.

The students are receiving the content

We are grateful for the opportunity to offer this vital formation for somany wonderful young people andadults who are committed to bringingthe message of God’s love to Hischildren.

– Sr. Theresa Kelly, FMA

of the faith in their regular theologyclasses throughout their four years atMary Help. In addition, they havemonthly Saturday sessions thatprovide an understanding of thecatechetical process, how childrenlearn at different age levels, teachingmethods, and lesson planning.

Sr. Theresa Kelly (at left) leads Mary Help students in an overview of the catecheticalcertification process. Best of luck to all the girls in the rewarding work ahead!

Last summer, the Salesian Sistersof Our Lady of Peace Province

(South Africa-Zambia) participatedin workshops in media, communi-cations, and ongoing formation.At the request of the local Provin-cial, Sr. Roberta Tomasi, our own Sr. Louise Passero traveled from theU.S. to conduct the week-longworkshop. Her session on “Mediaand Communications for Today’sEducators” covered such topics ascritical reading of films as bearers ofmessages and values, verbal and non-verbal communication, advertising,photography and picture editing,PowerPoint, and the Internet with itsbenefits and dangers.

Well done, Sr. Louise! We’re proudof you!


Have You Moved?

Please help us update our mailing list.If the address on this magazine on the back cover is incorrect, kindly fill inthis form with the correct information& mail it to our office. Many thanks!

Name:

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Correct Address:

PARTNERS IN GIVINGis a bimonthly magazine published by the

Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office659 Belmont Avenue

North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397Telephone: (973) 904-0102

Toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS Fax: (973) 904-0041

E-mail: [email protected]: www.salesiansisters.org

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.

Editorial BoardDr. Joseph McAleer, Editor

Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA, Development DirectorMrs. Christina McAleer, Director of Advancement

Ms. Janet Arias, Production ManagerMrs. Ariane Nagrosst, Editorial Assistant

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

right to edit for publication.

CAMP AUXILIUM,NEWTON, NJ –Three-year-olds gotinto the Christmasspirit in a big way,posing with Santa andhis friends (above) andsinging “Counting theDays ‘til Christmas”(right) in the annualChristmas program.

CORPUS CHRISTI SCHOOL, PORT CHESTER, NY – Lookeverybody – it’s my letter to Santa Claus! Students surround Sr. Margaret Rose Buonaiuto (in a reindeer t-shirt) with their proudcreations, hopeful that wishes were granted on Christmas morning.

winter 2008 partners in giving

Documents

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