partners in giving early summer 2013

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

Partners in GivinGPartners in GivinG

Happy 100th, Sr. Antonia!

2 • Partners in Giving • Volume XXIII • Issue 3 Please call us toll-free: 877-OUR-NUNS

Sr. Mary Rinaldi’s Letter

Dear Friends:

There are 12 smiles on our cover and the brightest is on the face of the Sister at the center. On April 21, Sr. Antonia Cvetko celebrated her 100th birthday and 74 years as a Salesian Sister. You may recall that she was one of several Sisters who were forced out of Cuba when Castro took power. Sr. Antonia is set in contrast to the youthful faces of the Sisters and Novices, four of whom will profess First Vows on August 5. Only a profound love for Jesus could sustain a calling for three quarters of a century! Sr. Antonia, thank you for your fidelity. Pray for us.

Some news to report:

• In deep faith, hundreds of people dedicated a Mother’s Day Rose to be placed by the altar of Our Lady in May. We are now receiving your lighthouses dedicated to Dads for Father’s Day to be placed near good St. Joseph. All gifts support the care of our retired Sisters.

• Summer camp programs are being prepared in four states for hundreds of children. Once again, we are blessed with a $50,000 matching gift. Your help is needed to win this double blessing! See page 3.

• This is another reminder to check with your employer for a matching gift. We have recently received matching money from Verizon, American Express, GE, Prudential, Morgan Stanley, Pfizer, and Bristol Myers Squibb.

• We anticipate the Jubilees of seven Sisters on July 7! While each offers thanks to God, they also remember you who have been so supportive over the years. See pages 4-6.

We Sisters commonly say that our “vacation” is a change of occupation for the summer. The young are always in our lives in one way or another. As we go about our mission, know that you are prayerfully remembered in all that we do. God bless you.

Peace,

Save the Dates!

Jubilarian CelebrationSunday, July 7, 2013

11:00 a.m. Mass St. Joseph’s Chapel, North Haledon, NJ

12:30 p.m. LuncheonThe Tides, North Haledon, NJ

For more information,please call the Development Office: (973) 904-0102

Profession of VowsSr. Jennifer Kane & Sr. Elfie Del Rosario

Monday, August 5, 2013

11:00 a.m. Mass St. Joseph’s Chapel, North Haledon, NJ

Mary Help of Christians Academy Class of 1963

50th Anniversary

Friday-Sunday, September 13-15, 2013North Haledon, NJ

For more information, please contact Giovanna Falciglia Vollaro through the Development Office: (973) 904-0102.

Annual GalaPresented by the Dames of Mary Help

Friday, October 18, 2013

Watch for details!

Visit us online! www.salesiansisters.org Partners in Giving • Early Summer 2013 • 3

Can you believe Summer is here?! The end of another wonderful, enriching Salesian School year brings new excitement

among the Salesian Sisters as the Summer Camp season is upon us. Whether on the courts or in the classrooms, our Sisters and Camp counselors will keep eight Summer Camp programs in four states in perfect motion, through the goodness and generosity of friends like YOU!

I am thrilled to let you know that, once again, friends from South Florida have promised a $50,000 matching gift challenge for camp with a deadline of June 30. With your help, we can double the number of children going to camp!

Please help us, once again, to make a dream come true for needy inner-city kids. A gift of $150 will fund one week of camp for a deserving child. Thank you, and God bless you!

– Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMA

Salesian CAMP! Report

It’s Summer! Please Support Our Campers!

Hurry! Deadline is June 30!


Sr. Frances Gumino, FMA

70th Anniversary

Congratulations, Sisters, on your blessed Jubilees!

Sr. Mildred Zanetti, FMA

70th Anniversary

“Mildred a Sister? She is such a tomboy!” That’s what

her father said those many years ago about a daughter who was more given to wearing overalls and playing ball than anything more “lady-like.” Her mother often said, “I have three sons, but four boys.” But here she is, a Salesian Sister for 70 years!

God is full of surprises and works wonders with the raw material we provide. Mildred met the Sisters at Sacred Heart Parish in Clifton, NJ where they taught religious education. The girls flocked to them and some felt the call to join them.

One summer Mildred had saved enough money to join the “Clifton Girls” for a weekend at Camp

Mazzarello in North Haledon and what fun they had! They pushed 13 beds together in the cabin and chatted all night. The Sisters were so cheerful and easy to talk to. It was a truly memorable weekend. At her return home, all she could think of was being with the Sisters, being one of them. Notwithstanding her father’s reaction, she did indeed become “one of them.”

In love with life, Sr. Mildred gave her service as a financial admini-strator, looking after and working for the maintenance of buildings and grounds, and as a “Mildred of All Trades” and “Sister Fix-It.”

Most of all, she is fondly remembered as a Driver-Ed Teacher at Mary Help of Christians Academy, a role she cherished and excelled in for many years. Her admonition to “buckle up” still echoes in many ears.

Sr. Mildred’s step is a bit slower. Her main occupation is now prayer. Yet, the twinkle is still in her eyes, the smile on her lips, and her out-of-the-blue witty remarks still bring cheer to all.

Frances was born in the little coal mining town of Pittston, PA.

Her parents were hard-working, faith-filled, simple people who loved each other and their four children very much. After some years, the family relocated to Paterson, NJ to be near the grandparents. It was here that Frances met the Salesian Sisters who prepared her for her First Communion.

At ten years of age, she lost her mother to pneumonia and her relatives all came to the aid of her father. Through the advice of the Pastor, Msgr. Carlo Cianci, her father entrusted his daughters to the Salesian Sisters in North Haledon. When tragedy struck and her dad was killed in a train accident, Sr. Frances recalls, “the Sisters

made up for the loss of my parents with their loving kindness and care.”

Although there was some opposition when Frances expressed her desire to be a Sister, her grandmother sided with her.Having received her degree from Seton Hall, Sr. Frances began her career as a educator and thoroughly enjoyed her ministry in teaching the

primary grades. She taught in various states and was principal in various schools in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Virginia, Rhode Island, Florida, and Wisconsin. Everywhere she went, she left the feeling of love and care that she herself had experienced.

Sr. Frances’ spirit has remained young at heart and vibrant as she counts 90 years of her life, 70 as a Salesian Sister. “The Blessed Mother has been my guiding Star, Mother, and Helper. I feel her presence each day. I thank my Superiors and Sisters who shared with me their love, good example, and prayers throughout my happy life as a Salesian Sister. My soul praises the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!”

Sr. Dora Adames, FMA

50th Anniversary

Sr. Dora came from a small country with a big heart,

Puerto Rico, and a loving family. Her father, Juan was a compassionate Chief of Police. Her mother, Rafaela, was a home-maker who taught her daughter to have a spirit of service by helping

anyone in need.

But her parents did not share Dora’s desire to be a nun. Her father

reminded her that she was a minor and could not leave without his permission until she was 21. So Dora continued to live at home and wait.

In the meantime, she pursued her studies at the University of Puerto Rico and became a member of the Third Order of Carmelites. She also met the Salesian Sisters when Sr. Stella Ruiz and Sr. Jane Sanchez were sent by their Bishop to visit Puerto Rico. They were working with the Puerto Ricans who had emigrated to Paterson and Passaic, NJ. A friendship was forged and letters exchanged.

In 1963, Sr. Dora made her first vows in Newton, NJ. She had finally reached her goal! After further studies at Seton Hall University, she began her apostolate as an educator of young people and taught in many schools of the Province.

Sr. Fanny Florez, FMA50th Anniversary

Sr. Fanny traveled long and far to be a Salesian Sister –

all the way from Bucaramanga, Colombia! Her family provided an atmosphere of simplicity and heart-felt faith. She was a good student, alert and eager. When asked by her spiritual director

if she had ever thought of entering religious life, she promptly gave a negative reply, so he advised her to take the

state examination and apply for a grant to attend the university. At the Feminine University of Bogotá, she received her bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and Chemistry. As Divine Providence would have it, her first teaching assignment was at a school administered and staffed by the Salesian Sisters.

The seed was sown and Fanny watered it with her desire to be a Salesian Sister. She did her formation program in the United States. Her long journey was over – and also just begun.

Her droll humor brings laughter and cheer, and her quiet presence has endeared her to many over 50 years of religious life, many spent teaching the sciences at Mary Help of Christians Academy. Now she gives her service in the main office at Immaculata-La Salle High School in Miami, FL.

Sr. Amelia Callegarin, FMA

60th Anniversary

Sr. Amelia came to the United States from Castions, Di

Strada, Italy in 1954 with Mother Josephine Galassi and Sr. Tilde Galli. She was to learn English before going to the missions in India, as well as chef secrets from Sr. Gisella Buonfiglio, Sr. Anna

Ragogna, and Sr. Rose Segarini. They were master cooks who not only made it very comfortable

for her to learn in the kitchen, but she found delight in preparing wholesome meals for the Sisters.

Later, Sr. Amelia took care of Sr. Anna Landoni and other Sisters in the infirmary. She learned by doing, by intuition, to move the bedridden, to change their position, to give food or drink. She shared the night shift with two other Sisters in caring for the sick and elderly Sisters. While her fellow Sisters “out there” are caring for young people, she is with her fellow Sisters “in here,” caring for those who have worked many years for the youth, and whose lives have been and continue to be a shining example.

Although her mission never took her to India, Sr. Amelia knows her mission is here in the U.S.A. Her life has alwas been under the protection and guidance of Mary Help of Christians.

On Sunday, July 7, the Salesian Sisters will gather in North Haledon, NJ with family, friends, and Adopters to celebrate the Jubilees of seven Sisters. Their stories are on these pages. We are proud of our Jubilarians and of their joyful, serene perseverance. They are shining examples that faithfulness and promises kept are a reality

possible, even today! Their fidelity adds up to 375 years of loving service and continued “Yes” to God’s call in our Congregation and in the Church. God bless you, Sisters, and Ad multos annos! – Sr. Mary Terzo, FMA


Sr. Monique Huart, FMA50th Anniversary

Congratulations, Sisters, on your blessed Jubilees!

Sr. Marisa De Rose, FMA

25th Anniversary

Some fish are just hard to catch, but the Lord is a good

fisherman. This sums up the discernment process of Sr. Marisa as she sought to know and follow God’s call in her life. Born into a loving and close-knit family in Elizabeth, NJ, she and her brothers attended St. Anthony School which was run by the Salesian Sisters.

She and her family were very close and supportive of each other. When Marisa told her parents she was considering a religious vocation, they were not overjoyed. However, they supported and helped her during all the struggles of her discernment process.

Her vocation was much influenced

by the Sisters who taught at St. Anthony’s. She spent a lot of time with them and they invited her to pray with them and take part in special events in Newton and in Haledon. After a weekend “Mornese Experience,” she was sure that God was calling her. Then, this receded from her memory as she attended high school.

But God does not give up and she again felt the call to be with the Sisters. Sr. Marisa asked for a sign from God and received it, but chose to ignore it. She asked again, and this time she listened. She made up her mind, and peace entered in.

Twenty five years as a Salesian Sister have been lived as Sr. Marisa served in many places, meeting and working with many wonderful people. The Lord has been with her with His love and His guidance, and she is reminded over and over again that, “All things work for the good of those who love God, who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

Sr. Monique came to us as a Salesian missionary from Paris,

France and, 50 years later, she still serves as a dedicated educator, catechist, and evangelizer. One might say she was “a Salesian from birth,” since her father was both a past pupil and a teacher in the technical school of the Salesian Priests. She says, “I recall knowing about St. John Bosco before knowing about Jesus, since the biography of Don Bosco and Salesian literature were always within my reach.”

A summer camp experience in the French Alps brought her into contact with the Sisters “whose love of God radiated from their lives. I was attracted by beauty of the self-

giving Sisters and their total dedication to us girls.” It was a combination of parental guidance and the example of the Sisters that led Sr. Monique to answer “Yes” to the call of Jesus Himself to Don Bosco’s family.

Since 1967, she has labored in this part of the Lord’s vineyard, first as a

teacher of Theology and French at Mary Help of Christians Academy for many years and then in various other states. Presently, she is the Director of Religious Education at St. Theresa Parish in Kenilworth, NJ. Her responsibilities are many and varied and she brings to each one her total energy and loving dedication.

Sr. Monique sums it up saying, “The Lord has blessed me with a Salesian missionary vocation. It has proven to be one of the most life-giving and love-giving experiences of my life. I have had the occasion to share that love with thousands of young people and adults whom God has sent my way.”

Won’t you consider Adopting a Sister like Sr. Antonia Cvetko, 100 years young? Join 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. 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. Please complete the form below or, to learn more, visit us online at www.salesiansisters.org or call us toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you and God bless you!



Making Headlines Around the Province

On Saturday, April 13, 350 guests came together at Corpus Christi-Holy Rosary School in Port Chester, NY for the Third Annual Father Peter M.

Rinaldi Awards Dinner. The evening’s theme was “Old Hollywood” and many dressed up in fantastic fashions from the 20s, 30s, and 40s. Wonderful tunes filled the air thanks to the Tony T Orchestra, who played all the great hits of the era. Michael Marchetti of Columbus Park Trattoria in Stamford, CT prepared an amazing feast.

Honorees for the evening included three huge supporters of Corpus Christi-Holy Rosary School: Richard “Fritz” Falanka of Port Chester; Fr. Steven Schenck, SDB, the late Pastor of Holy Rosary Parish in Port Chester; and Monsignor Frank C. Wissel, Pastor of St. Mary Parish in Greenwich, CT. Like the late Father Rinaldi who showered his love and gifts amongst the students of the school he founded and the parishioners of Corpus Christi Church, so, too, have our honorees given generous amounts of time, talent, and resources to help us keep Salesian Catholic education alive for all children, especially the poor.

Much fun was had by all, and the proceeds from the event will support tuition aid, programs, and school operations. Thank you all, and God bless you!

A Night in Old Hollywood, via Port Chester!

Honoree Monsignor Frank C. Wissel with dear friends, Angela and Dr. William Piro of Dix Hills, NY.

Monsignor holds one of the 100 teddy bears that were auctioned.

Above, Honoree Fritz Falanka (center) with his wife, Sandy,

and family.

Left, “Flapper” Emily Saunders got into the spirit of “Old Hollywood” with her husband, Tom.

Below, the family of the beloved late Pastor of Holy Rosary Parish,

Fr. Stephen Schenck,SDB, gathered to honor his

memory.

Photos by John Glover

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

scholarship assistance, technology upgrades, and funds for those unforeseen situations that require immediate attention.

Your annual contribution to this fund empowers the Sisters to continue their mission: To Provide Financial Assistance and Volunteer Services to the Salesian Sisters and to the Young People in their Care for the Advancement of Education, Vocations, and Community Life.

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

Won’t you consider joining this dynamic group in 2013, our 22nd year?

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

Sal

eSi

an

SiS

te

rS’

Pa

rt

ne

rS

Cir

Cl

e W

elco

me

New

201

3 M

embe

rs i

n R

ed!

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

texaSMrs. Betty Turner

FloridaMr. & Mrs. Anthony Ekonomou

Welcome

20new

Partners CircleMembers

so far in

2013!

Shown in RED

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 GarciaMrs. Ann Lowry Murphey

Mr. Anthony PetrocelliMs. Roberta Ruocco

Ms. Celeste TripiMr. Vincent Waraske

new yorkMrs. Pearl Kalikow

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

FloridaIn memory of Henrietta Veronica Schmoll Rauenhorst

CaliForniaMrs. Maryann Roman

ConneCtiCutMr. Michael Guarnieri

Mr. & Mrs. David McAleerDr. Joseph McAleer

FloridaMrs. Janis Boyd

The Joseph J. Hermann & Rose A. Hermann

Charitable FoundationDr. Idalia Lastra

Mr. Fredy Padovan

new JerSeyMr. & Mrs. John Connors

Mr. Anthony GulinoMs. Ida Gulino

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

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

Mrs. Moira McBride MurphyMr. Stephen Papetti

Ms. Rose Perone

new yorkMs. Jordon Carroll

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Scala, Jr.

PennSylvaniaIn Loving Memory

of Sr. Adeline Salvetti, FMA

South CarolinaMr. & Mrs. Tom Aldinger

MiSSouriMs. Marianne O’Doherty

new JerSeyMrs. Rosemarie D’Alessandro

Ms. Debi F. DebiakMr. & Mrs. Joseph Granatell Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Laino

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

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Massood

new yorkMs. Lea Battiato

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

Msgr. William T. RodgersThe Sabatine Foundation

Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Silveri

PennSylvaniaAllyson & Kevin Hardy

CaliForniaMr. & Mrs. Robert

Obenberger

ConneCtiCutMr. & Mrs. Peter ChristiansenMr. & Mrs. Salvatore Zichichi

A Friend

FloridaMr. & Mrs. John Anello

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph W. Clark Dr. & Mrs. Rod Jurado

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

Mr. & Mrs. Frank MiddendorfJohn & Lydia Oliva

Mr. & Mrs. Gene Perez

GeorGiaMr. Robert Reiter

MaSSaChuSettSMr. & Mrs. Dennis Clair

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

Partners Circle

“Founders”Annual gift of $2,000

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

Mr. & Mrs. Rodger RohdeMr. & Mrs. Joseph Weiner

new yorkMr. Anthony J. Carroll

Mr. John Cassara

PennSylvaniaMr. & Mrs. Vincent DeBow

FloridaMr. & Mrs. James Millar

new JerSeyMr. & Mrs. Tony Chernalis

In memory of Mr. & Mrs. C.H. Church, Jr.Mr. & Mrs. Robert HarkinsMr. & Mrs. Bill McLaughlinMr. & Mrs. Joseph Pfeifer

FloridaMr. & Mrs. Javier Baldor

Partners Circle “Friends”Annual gift of $3,000

Sal

eSi

an

SiS

te

rS’

Pa

rt

ne

rS

Cir

Cl

e W

elco

me

New

201

3 M

embe

rs i

n R

ed!

arizonaA Friend

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.Mr. & Mrs. Carlos Baldor, Sr.

Mr. James J. BurrowesMrs. Yoli Buss

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

Mrs. Trudy CareyDr. & Mrs. Antonio CastroMr. & Mrs. J.C. De Lotto

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

Mr. & Mrs. Luis GarciaMrs. Rose Graziano

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

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

Hon. Judge & Mrs. E.J. SalcinesMr. Charles B. SchmalzMrs. Peggy Jones Theis

Mr. Joseph TomainoMr. & Mrs. Ron Yates

GeorGiaMr. & Mrs. Charles Fantauzza

illinoiSJoseph & Adelaide Olivieri

MaSSaChuSettSMs. Patti Gauthier

Ms. Josephine PetrilloMr. & Mrs. Theodore Reading

new JerSeyTiziana Anello, M.D.Ms. Bernice Bednarz

Larry & Mary Anne ConditDr. & Mrs. Louis A. Gambetta

Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Giamonco Mrs. Stephanie Goldberg

Mrs. Teresa GuttoMichael & Mary Losurdo

Ms. Laura MannarinoMrs. Diva Muller

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

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph PiotrowskiMr. & Mrs. Cameron ReidMr. & Mrs. John SoldoveriMr. & Mrs. William Stuart

new yorkMichael & Jeanette Altamura

Mr. & Mrs. Jack BetwardaMr. Charles Brown

Kevin & Kathy ClairMrs. Rose Mary Clair

Terence & Patricia ClairMr. & Mrs. Charles Curcio

Ms. Claire DellMr. Joseph Hill

Mr. Walter LazarcheckMs. Elizabeth Nardone

Mrs. Joan Oliver Mrs. Margaret Reilly-Antalec

north CarolinaMr. & Mrs. Paul Liotard

Mr. Chester F. Michewicz, Jr.

ohioMr. & Mrs. Dan Clair

PennSylvaniaMr. & Mrs. Jack Hedgecock

South CarolinaAnonymous

texaSMr. & Mrs. Bill Locklier

virGiniaMrs. Dominique FaustMr. Michael Maurer

Partners Circle “Members”Annual gift of $500

Partners Circle

“Associates” Annual gift of $750

FloridaMr. Declan MansfieldFred & Anne Michaels

louiSianaMr. John Keller

new JerSeyMr. Anthony B. Della CerraMr. & Mrs. Dominic Stimola

new yorkMrs. Helen Leahy

OUR MISSION

The 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.

Sal

eSi

an

SiS

te

rS’

Pa

rt

ne

rS

Cir

Cl

e W

elco

me

New

201

3 M

embe

rs i

n R

ed!


• •GIVE US THIS

Day

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

Day 1 (Month, day): Significance:



Total enclosed@ $100 per day: $ ____________

Please make yourcheck payable to:Salesian Sisters

Name

Address

Telephone

Please Help Our Retired Sisters In Need!

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

Please Give Us Your Special Day!

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

with you for an entire month. Is it a time to remember a less-than-happy occasion? Our prayer for 30 days will accompany this event in your life. Have you someone to thank? All of us will help multiply this gratitude to that special person. Is there a special person or event to bring to the attention of your friends? Then please, “Give Us This Day”!

Any event or person or situation that merits special attention will be publicized on a bulletin board outside our chapel. All the Sisters will pray for that person, event, and/or situation and for the person who requests prayers for the day.

Let this exchange of time be an example of our concern and our love for one another. Thank you.

Joining in an Easter hat Contest and parade are Sr. Antoinette Cedrone, Sr. Mary Winterscheidt, Sr. Patricia Winterscheidt, and Sr. Inez Molano.


With the arrival of spring and summer, we see new life bursting into

flower. Daily schedules change to a different tempo as school lets out and colleagues take vacations. We, like nature, sense new energy in these changes. In fact, we’ve come to appreciate and anticipate the seasonal changes and we find comfort in the rhythm of life it affords us.

But there are also the other seasons of our lives when come the changes that are not welcomed! The loss of loved ones. The desire to be near to those we miss; the changes that come with age; the chronic illness of a child; a relationship we cannot reconcile. They strike us and can leave us momentarily off balance, or else they can demand an energy and strength we do not think we possess.

We witness such changes befalling a friend. We see peoples’ lives reduced to rubble in a disastrous spring storm. And we ourselves can become unnerved and fearful at the prospect of the future.

Accepting and befriending the inevitable big and little changes that come to us in life are essential for our happiness. Our response to those changes is key to making us or breaking us. A positive and faith-filled response makes us stronger. Kicking against the goad, instead, can diminish us.

God, who sees to the rhythm of the seasons, also attends to the seasons of our lives. We can rely

on His promise, “for those who love God, all things work together for good” (Romans 8:28).

A mere glance back at our lives assures us that we will be able to adjust to the newness that enfolds our lives in the midst of change. We can discover that there was hidden grace in every new situation. Most importantly, we can count on that faithful God who walks with us. We can believe that His strength and beauty will somehow well up right from within us and then radiate back

to us through our surroundings, especially in the goodness of people.

I recently came across some friendly advice of St. Francis de Sales (1567-1622) who speaks of the certainty of faith and trust:

Be at peace.

Do not look forward in fear to the changes of life;

Rather look to them with full hope as they arise.

God, whose very own you are,

Befriending Change Sr. Karen Dunn’s Letter

Will deliver you from out them.

He has kept you hitherto,

And He will lead you safely through all things;

And when you cannot stand it,

God will bury you in His arms.

Do not fear what may happen tomorrow;

The same everlasting Father who cares for you today

Will take care of you then and every day.

He will either shield you from suffering,

Or will give you unfailing strength to bear it.

Be at peace,

And put aside all anxious thoughts and imagination.

Francis’ advice is wise, advice that could become part of our daily prayer as we move through the seasons of change, in nature and in our lives.

“Accepting and befriending the inevitable big and little

changes that come to us in life are essential for our happiness. Our response to those changes

is key to making us or breaking us. A positive and faith-filled response

makes us stronger.”


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 to: Sr. Mary Rinaldi

659 Belmont Avenue, North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

Please make checks payable to SALESIAN SISTERS

Name – DECEASED

Name – LIVING

A LoveThat Lasts

Forever Sr. Lucy Balistrieri, FMAMs. Lorraine Arnone

Mrs. Rose Ricci

Sr. Mary Baroni, FMAMr. Anthony PacesaKnights of Columbus

Incarnation Council #6364Mr. & Mrs. Robert SelserMrs. Roseann Mosseau

Miss Holly DeloheryMr. & Mrs. John Connors

Sr. Rose Laino, FMAMr. & Mrs. Anthony Laino

Howard CunninghamMr. & Mrs. Richard

MehrmanMr. & Mrs. Jeremiah Ciancia

Ms. Lynn BruneauMr. Thomas Toronto

Edgewater Colony Inc.Allendale Volunteer

Fire Department

Kathy DurigMr. & Mrs. Richard Bauer

Mrs. Edna LandsiedelMr. Ted Durig

Diana T. GallagherMr. William T. Gallagher

Dr. Rod JuradoMr. Peter Muehleck

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Garcia

Theresa NarkiewiczMs. Eleanor Fabiano

Maria PietrowskiMr. Kenneth Pietrowski

Wanda Anna RoyMrs. Nancy Kerestus

Joe YglesiasMrs. Jenifer Prado

MemorialsReceived between April 6 and May 31, 2013

Sr. Virginia Dickey, FMAMrs. Roseann Mosseau

Sr. Antonia Cvetko, FMAMr. & Mr. Al Matonak

Mrs. Susan Zaleski

Sr. Mildred Zanetti, FMAMr. & Mrs. Vincent Pecoraro

Sr. Mary Rinaldi, FMAMs. Marge Hnath

Anne DeGiseMs. Rosanne O’Neill

Joseph LaudoneMr. & Mrs. Jack O’Meara

TributesReceived between April 6

and May 31, 2013

You may now adopt a Salesian

Sister to pray for your deceased family member or friend for one year. It is a one-time gift; the suggested donation is $160. Forms are

posted

online at: www.salesiansisters.org, or please call us, toll-free: (877) OUR-NUNS. Thank you!


Diva Muller with her daughter Pam and the Swartzberg family.

The Harkins Family and friends are all smiles!

Above, Sr. Anna Ragogna with Tony Laino.

Right,Sr. Louise Passero

is a winner!

Below, Happy winners at the Losurdo table!

Happy Times at Our Annual Spring Party!

On Sunday, April 21, more than 500 friends of the Salesian Sisters came together to join in the fun at the annual Spring Party, which raised $70,000 of

much-needed financial aid for the students of Mary Help of Christians Academy. Emcee, Sr. Mary Rinaldi led the festivities that included raffle baskets of all sizes and a delicious lunch catered by The Market Basket of Franklin Lakes.

Special thanks to our tireless planning committee, our volunteers, and all who helped make the day a success for the students of Mary Help.

Salesian Youth Report

CHRIST THE KING SCHOOL, TAMPA, FL – On April 28, a beautiful statue of St. John Bosco was dedicated at the school where the Salesian Sisters administrated and taught for 30 years. Among the Sisters who attended the celebrations – and received a standing ovation during Mass! – were Sr. Susan Bagli; past principals, Sr. Judith Suprys and Sr. Kathy Keane; and the first principal, Sr. Mary Terzo.

The Salesian Sisters left Christ the King School in 2003, but a strong center of Salesian Cooperators continues to serve on the faculty of the school.



CAMP AUXILIUM, NEWTON, NJ – Recently families and friends were invited to Camp Auxilium for a solemn Mass of Thanksgiving and celebration in honor of the “Awesome Five” who have cared for and educated the very young children for 25 years and more. How can we ever thank them for their selfless service?

The “Awesome Five” include (front row) Marco Bisoglio, Gail Caffrey, and Linda Hammann, and (back row) Terry Winkler and Donna Meissinger. Joining in the celebration were Dan Coranoto, Deputy Mayor of Hampton Township, NJ (back row); and Salesian Sisters: Sr. Lou Ann Fantauzza, Sr. Theresa Samson, Sr. Karen Dunn, Provincial Superior, and Sr. Mary Rinaldi.


My Vocation Journey

I have a special mission in life. My official badge hasn’t come in the mail yet, but I’m pretty

sure it is safe to say that my special mission from God is to be an apostle of joy. I am to show the world that following Jesus is the source of joy.

I grew up in a small town in Missouri. My four brothers and I were brought up in the Catholic Church. There was a decent population of Catholics in area, but not many were visibly excited about being Catholic. I feel that if we really have the fullness of the Truth as we profess, we need to get excited about it.

By high school, I had accepted that my childhood dreams of making it big on Broadway or of becoming a professional soccer player would not come to fruition. I began to think of what I wanted to do with my life when I had to grow up and get a “big kid” job. I desired to change the attitude that so many people seem to have towards the Faith and wanted to work in the Church somehow.

I obtained degrees in Theology and Youth Ministry from Benedictine College in Atchison, KS. One of my professors advised me that, when I need to make a decision, I should not ask God for a sign, but rather for peace in my heart. Peace is not the same as serenity. He said peace is the acceptance of and dedication to God’s will; it helps us remain firm in faith no matter the circumstances, even if the world is crashing down around us. His advice led me to a small town in northeast Missouri where I spent two wonderful years as the Youth Director in a parish.

In the summer of 2011, I met a Salesian Sister for the first time and instantly connected with her and her spirituality. The following spring I visited the Convent in North Haledon and felt like I was home – not just comfortable and “at home,” but that I needed to find some way to spend more time there. I experienced deep peace. Again my professor’s advice reverberated in me.

Ask Not for a Sign, But Peace in Your Heart In August of 2012, I entered the Salesian Sisters. I brought with me a significant amount of college debt. I wasn’t sure exactly how I would pay it off, but I really believed that Jesus had invited me to enter Salesian life at this time. So I peacefully came, trusting that if He could calm storms with a word, He could settle this tidal wave in my life. Many times my prayer was, “Jesus, I trust in you!” I also asked for the intercession of St. Joseph, whom the first FMA looked to as their economer, and of St. John Bosco, who began building the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians with essentially no funds.

God is never outdone in generosity. I followed him to the Convent and He opened up opportunities that allowed me to pay off my college debt. Now that this tidal wave has passed and the ocean is tranquil, so is my spirit and I can follow His call in serenity and joy.

Not only have I experienced great peace in the past eight months of Formation (even though sometimes it really did feel like the world was crashing down around me), but also I have had great joy in living God’s dream for my life at this time. I believe the next step Jesus is inviting me to take is to continue following Him in Salesian Formation into

Postulancy. I have made my petition (formal request) to be accepted as a Postulant for the 2013-2014 academic year.

My gratitude for all who have specifically invested in my Vocation spiritually and financially flows through my daily prayers. Please pray for me as I continue to live my role as an apostle of joy.

– Chelsea C. Schuster

To learn more about vocations and becoming a Salesian Sister, please e-mail the Vocations Director, Sr.

Colleen Clair: [email protected], or visit www.salesiansisters.org or www.facebook.com/happynun.

“Not only have I experienced great peace,

but also great joy in living God’s dream for my life.”



ST. ANTHONY SCHOOL, HAWTHORNE, NJ – Congratulations to eighth-graders Kelly Murphy and Victoria Newman, who will be joining other middle- and high-school students from across the country to compete in the National History Day Contest at the University of Maryland in College Park, MD. The girls won the right to compete at the national level with their 10-minute qualifying performance, The United States and Japan: From Enemies to Allies, at the New Jersey History Day (for which they received their medals). This is the third time in the last five years that St. Anthony School has had students qualify for the national contest. Good luck, girls!

VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, TAMPA, FL – Congratulations to the Boys Varsity Volleyball team and Coach Harrison. They won First Place in the Catholic League. Way to go, boys!

ST. THERESA SCHOOL, KENILWORTH, NJ – Three cheers for eighth-graders Alexa Karp and Kelsey Harder, who participated in the Archdiocese of Newark Catholic Challenge and made it to the final round. Under the guidance of Ms. Nancy Pakulski, Ms. Carolyn Pancurak, and Fr. Lito, the girls studied with determination. “It was like a spelling bee for religion and I was very nervous,” Alexa said. Good luck, girls!



MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS ACADEMY, NORTH HALEDON, NJ – It was raining outside, but there was plenty of sunshine inside at the Second Annual Women of Distinction Luncheon held on May 8 at the Indian Trail Club in Franklin Lakes, NJ. Debbie Rohde and Rosemary De Pinto, luncheon co-chairs, along with the Dames of Mary Help and staff, transformed the club into a pink and green spring wonder. Eleven local vendors gathered to display and sell their fine products and all had committed to contribute a portion of their sales to support the students at Mary Help.

The two guest speakers were Annie

Sanchez, the Valedictorian of the 1999 class of the Mary Help, and Sr. Caroljean Willie, S.C., Ph.D., a Sister of Charity. Annie, currently employed by Ernst and Young, spoke of her educational and spiritual journey and of her fulfillment of a lifelong dream to establish Debt Free Like Annie, a company to help clients achieve their personal and financial goals. And her work with Art in Motion, a non-profit

organization, helps inner-city youth appreciate and explore the leadership and service through the arts.

Sr. Caroljean shared her extensive cultural experiences through stories and anecdotes, always emphasizing the theme that we all contribute to a piece of the puzzle that is our world. She is the author of Praying All Ways: A Intelligence Approach to Prayer and

Above,Guest Speaker and Mary

Help Alumna Annie Sanchez (left) with current

Mary Help Juniors.

Left, among the Dames of Mary Help

who attended the Women of Distinction Luncheon

were: Deborah Rohde (Co-Chair), Hilda Marmo, Twinkie Polizzi, Rosalie Stanton, Beverly Rohde,

Maria Losurdo-Colangelo, Elizabeth Harkins, and

Rosemary DePinto (Co-Chair).

serves as the NGO representative to the United Nations on behalf of the Sisters of Charity Federation.

The theme of our oneness was exemplified by both of our speakers. After lunch, guests were invited to complete their shopping and socialize. A truly special afternoon had passed!

– Rosalie Stanton, Dame of Mary Help



ACADEMY OF OUR LADY, MARRERO, LA – The Academy welcomed the eighth grade and Freshmen class for the 2013-2014 school year and awarded Academic and Character Scholarships at a recent meeting. More than 350 future parents, students, and family members attended the presentation that culminated in the awarding of scholarships. Among the lucky recipients were 18 incoming eighth graders (above) who received the Catholic Education Grant. The grant is designed to recognize students and families who have shown a dedication to Catholic education and facilitate a smooth financial transition from middle school to high school. The grant is $1,000 for one year. Good luck, girls!

VILLA MADONNA SCHOOL, TAMPA, FL – On stage for the “Mosaic” show are these talented second, third, and fourth graders, performing “In This World We Are Together” under the direction of Margarita Freire. Great job, kids! Can American Idol be far off?!

“Mosaic” included pieces of art and performances from 75 students in the areas of dance, voice, photography and art, videography, music, and poetry.


The Joy of Teaching in a Salesian School

Literally, I do play all day. It is part of my ministry as a Salesian Sister and I

thoroughly enjoy playing! What do I play? I have a gift, God-given, that I share with many young people. It brings joy, enthusiasm, and pleasure to me and to all those with whom I share it. Yes, it is the gift of playing – of playing music!

Music has been part of my life ever since I can remember. Becoming a Salesian Sister has given me ample opportunity to hone my skill and to use it for the benefit of the young people I serve.

I taught music in our Salesian elementary schools in Paterson, NJ for 20 years. I also brought music to our summer camps. The children always participated willingly and with much joy. Some of the past campers say they continue to sing camp songs to lift their spirits, and they teach them to their children.

I still play all day now that I am at Mary Help of Christians Academy. My fingers actively dance over the piano keyboard as I accompany our school choirs, student Masses, drama presentations, music classes led by Mrs. Lucia Cardona, and much more.

I accompany our great high school choir under Mrs. Cardona’s direction and we present two concerts a year together with the Dance and Art classes.

For two years, we have participated in the Festival of Music at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ, competing with other choirs and bands. We won first place in the Women’s Choir Level both years! I am so proud to accompany these girls and their expert teacher.

I received the beautiful gift of being a Salesian Sister, an educator of young people. It is a wonderful gift of Mary Help of Christians for which I am grateful each day. My “playing” is my apostolate, my mission, and the way I live out our Salesian Charism in St. John Bosco’s spirit of “Give me souls, take away the rest,” helping those I serve to be “honest citizens and good Christians” through the medium of music.

I will continue “playing” for as long as the Lord desires, bringing the joy of music as a hymn of praise to God.

– Sr. Maryann Caspary, FMA

Playing All Day Long

“I will continue ‘playing’ for as long as the Lord

desires, bringing the joy of music as a hymn of praise to God.”

Sr. Maryann Caspary with members of the Mary Help Choir at Six Flags

Great Adventure, where the students took first place in the Festival of Music.



ST. THERESA SCHOOL IN KENILWORTH, NJ – On May 20, St. Theresa’s, under the direction of Mrs. Alice Gorombey and Mrs. Christine McCarthy, was one of 15 schools, a total of 174 students, who participated in the Union Catholic 17th Annual Forensic Tournament. St. Theresa’s team consisted of 11 students: Kristin Carpenter, Kelsey Harder, Alexa Karp, Olivia Olivella and Deanna Vagueiro (8th graders); Jonathon Kreinberg, Emma Munoz and Caroline Tramontana (7th graders); Molly Burke (6th grader); and Makayla Koski and Rachel Tramontana (5th graders.) Alexa was awarded a fourth place trophy in the “Humor” category, and Kelsey and Deanna a third place trophy in the “Duo” category. St. Theresa’s Forensic Team received fifth place overall. Congratulations all!

ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC PRESCHOOL, ST. CHARLES, IL – The week of May 6-10 was Teacher Appreciation Week at St. Patrick’s. The teachers started off the week when they entered the school and saw the beautiful decorations in the lobby and on the doors to their classrooms – handmade by the students! The parents provided a delicious breakfast for the teachers and staff at the beginning of the week and a lavish lunch at the end of the week. Each teacher was showered with gifts and presented with a special “bouquet” of flowers made by the children. We love our teachers, including Becky Piernick, Julie Dale, Kerry Love, and Patriza Barone.

Make an Investment in the Future! a Child’S eduCation • new voCationS

Yes! I/we wish to help and make a difference!Please complete this form and return in the enclosed envelope. All donations are tax-deductible.

Amount enclosed: $100 ____ $250____ $500 ____ $1,000 ____ Other: $ _________

Please direct my gift to: Salesian Students _____ Vocations _____ Greatest Need _____

______ Check enclosed (Please make payable to Salesian Sisters)

______ Credit Card: MasterCard ______ Visa ______ Discover ______ Amex ______

Card Number: _____________________________________ Exp. Date: _______

Signature: ___________________________________________________________

______ My gift can be matched by my employer (please call and let us know: 973-904-0102)

Name(s): _________________________________________________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________________________

City: _____________________________________________ State: ______ Zip: _______________

Telephone: ( _____ ) _________________ E-mail: ______________________________________

Our students depend on scholarships to attend

Salesian Schools. And the education costs of our Sisters in training depend

entirely on donations.

Make an Investment in the Future!

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

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. Postage

P A I DHanover, NHPermit No. 8

Partners in Giving • Early Summer 2013 © 2013 Missionary society of salesian sisters, inc.

PARTNERS IN GIVING is a bimonthly magazine published by the

Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco Development Office659 Belmont Avenue

North Haledon, NJ 07508-2397

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

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

Website: www.salesiansisters.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/salesiansistersdevelopment

Editorial BoardDr. Joseph McAleer, Editor

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

Sr. Mary Terzo, FMA, Editorial Assistant

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

PRIVACY POLICY: Your name, address, and other information

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

to any other organization.

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

We reserve the right to edit for publication.

Students at Academy of Our Lady in Marrero, LA demonstrated the physics of floating boats using only duct tape and cardboard! Students were required

to write a paper about the physics of floating boats; build model boats which are tested using pennies; self-evaluate; and then build an actual boat to float. Students, including the fastest rowers, Lauren Barrios and Linh Dinh (above), used the pool at Archbishop Shaw High School for the demonstration. “Students must row their boats across the pool and back, and then use a mathematical equation to determine the efficiency of their boat,” explains Physics teacher and Department Chair Carol Lessig. Talk about (not) getting your feet wet!

+

partners in giving early summer 2013

Documents

salesian sisters

retired sisters

north haledon

summer camp programs

summer camp season

early summer

development office

camp counselors