JOURNEYS SPRING 2019

Journeys Sisters of St. Casimir

Vol. XXXIII No. 1 Spring 2019

I Am with You on the Journey Sisters of St. Casimir Pray for Healing of Villa Joseph Marie High School Student

The Sisters of St. Casimir welcomed Maria Middleton, a sophomore from Villa Joseph Marie High School in Holland, Pennsylvania, and her parents Brian and Susan. The Middleton's flew in to pray with the Sisters for healing for Maria through the intercession of Mother Maria Kaupas. The photo above was taken at Franciscan Village in Lemont after a special healing service. Inset photo — The Middletons: Brian, Maria, and Susan. Maria Middleton wears a blue prayer shawl, crocheted by Sister Nancy Streitmatter, MD. (Please see page 7 for an interview with Maria.)

A Message from Sister Regina Dear friends, I want to take this opportunity to thank you, in the name of all the Sisters of St. Casimir, for the many gifts we have received throughout the past year. Your generosity and support come to us in so many ways.

These donations are acknowledged in the pages of this issue of Journeys, but what cannot be counted or measured, and is of great value to us, are the wonderful people who volunteer their time and talents to help us in a variety of ways, as well as through letters, e-mails, and notes of gratitude that we receive.

Your love for our community and its mission, stories of how your lives have been influenced by our Sisters, and your presence with us on many occasions are deeply appreciated. You are part of our life, part of the circle of friends who surround our community.

Your monetary donations help us support the ministries that reflect our mission and care for the health care needs of our Sisters, who have given their lives in service in the fields of education, health care, pastoral and social service, and advocacy for those in need.

The donations we receive are often accompanied by prayer requests for various needs, and I want to assure you that these are remembered every day in our intentions.

They remain in chapel by the sarcophagus of our foundress, Venerable Servant of God, Maria Kaupas, and are brought up to the altar during the monthly Mass praying for the beatification of Mother Maria.

As we emerge from the experience of winter here

in Chicago, we long for the arrival of spring and summer, not only in the change of seasons of the year, but in our personal lives as well. Oftentimes, our community receives prayer requests when people are in the “depth of winter” as they face challenges and struggles in their own lives. We become a part of their journey, even as they reach deep within themselves to find the strength and faith to embrace this “depth of winter” in their personal lives.

There is a wonderful quote from Albert Camus: “In the depth of winter I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer.” It affirms the capacity that we all have that enables us to grow through all the changes of our lives. There is truly an “invincible summer” in our hearts. It is the faithful presence of God. Our foundress, Mother Maria, wrote, “Wherever you are and whatever you do, always keep it in mind: God is here.” As we move from the “depth of winter” into spring and summer, may we always carry in our hearts that invincible quality that never allows hope to diminish, that always believes that all will be well, and that will carry us through all the seasons of our life, bringing new hope and new possibilities.

We invite those of you who are in the Chicago area to join us for our monthly Masses for the beatification of Mother Maria. It would also give you an opportunity to visit our Legacy Rooms that tell the story of our community and how our legacy continues through you.

May God bless you and all who are part of your life with the joy and peace that surpasses all understanding.

Sister Regina Dubickas, SSC General Superior Sisters of St. Casimir

Sisters of St. Casimir Auxiliary leadership team members attended the International Day of the Sick Mass at St. Casimir chapel February 13. From left: Ginger Madden, Loretta Ezerski, Sister Regina Dubickas, Eleanor Ebert, Susan Binkis, and Paul Binkis.

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Honoring the life of Venerable Maria Kaupas:

Newly Created Litany, Approved by Archdiocese of Chicago A committee of parishioners at Mother Maria’s home parish in Ramygala, Lithuania, St. John the Baptist, had studied Mother Maria’s letters.

Finding them to be a source of great spiritual assistance, they composed a litany to her.

Hoping that the litany could be prayed by many people, they sent a copy to Sister Margaret Petcavage, the Vice Postulator, in Chicago. Sister translated it into English. A group of Sisters of St. Casimir then studied the litany as it related to Mother Maria’s life and added other meaningful invocations.

When completed, the litany was presented to the Archdiocese of Chicago, and an Imprimatur was granted. The first time the litany was publicly prayed was during the January 2019 Mother Maria Mass.

Along with private devotion, the Litany of Venerable Servant of God, Maria Kaupas, is prayed monthly after each first Saturday Mass, praying for the beatification/ canonization of Mother Maria Kaupas.

If you are interested in receiving copies for your parish or organization, please contact Daina Cyvas at 773.349.8064 or email dcyvas@ssc2601.com.

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WITH GRATITUDE TO OUR BENEFACTORS We acknowledge with deep gratitude the loving generosity of our many supporters.

Adams, Michael & Ann Albrecht, Sharon Albright , Cynthia Allegretti, Paul & Denise Allen, Marija Ambrose, Mary Joan Anderko, Philip & Lauren Anderson, Robert Craig Andrulonis, SSC, Mary Louise Andruscavage, Anne Anella, Mildred Aros, Elizabeth Ashe, Larry & Rose Atkenson, Robert Atkenson, Walter & Genevieve Azara, Mary Bacik, Bernice Balesh, Stella Ball, John Balulis, Antionette Bandyk, SSC, Lucille Ann Baran, Leo Bardauskis, Daniel & Bonita Bartnett , Gerald Bartuska, Michael & Rosemary Baumhart, Barbara Bednarcik, Elaine Belknap, Maureen Belzinskas, Remigijus Bendoraitis, Ronald Bertrand, Richard Betz, Bernard & Alice Bibat, Mary Ann Biell, Mary Ellen Billus, Jule Bina, Rose Binkis, Paul & Susan Blinstrubas, SSC, Milda Bogish, Michael & Elaine Boguski, Thomas Boldyreff, Roman & Linda Bonenberger, Tom & Janet Borowski, Stephen & Marita Brazeal, Catherine Brazen, Josephine Brett, William & Helen Brummel, Patricia Bruner, Daniel Brunner, Elizabeth Brzegowy, Rita Bubel, Peter Bubel, Robert Bubnis, Patricia 4

Bucko, Christine Buffo, Anne Bukis, Joseph & Irma Bullett, Walter & Karen Bumbul, Judy Bunevicius, Andrea Burger, Katherine Burnett, Milton Burns, Mary Burrows, Jeannie Bush, Marie Anne Butler, James Bynoe, Carol Campbell, Dolores Carlo, Antoinette Carroll, Rita Casey, Jeanne M. Casterline,Therese Chavez, Johnny Chialastri, Dorothy Chrabot , Cyril Christophersen, Andrew Cikotas, Janina Cipolla, Mary Ann Clark, Lori Clow, Barbara & Raymond Cola, Jeanine Collier, Clara Collins, Janice Comes, Virginia & Urban Conforti, Fred & Leona Conforti, Gloria Conville, Mary Costa, Marie Cunnally, Edward & Mary Cyvas, Daina & Saulius Dabulis, SSC, Theresa Dahlke, John & Mary Dainauskas, John Damasauskas, Robert Damico, Connie Damico,William Dancy, Agatha Daraska, Christine Daulys, Salome Dauparas, Joseph & Sonja Deckys, Algis Deman, Francine Demske, Edward Depue, Roger & Joanne Deputron, Ronald & Claudia Di Filippo, Nicholas & Margaret Diamond, Gene Disis, Leonard & Dolores S ist er s

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Dobrolsky, Sr., John & Janice Domlesky, Tricia Donahue, Steven & Paula Donovan, Donna Dopkin, Doris Dopkin, Raymond & Florence Dorrolsky, John & Janice Dozier, Eleanor Dubickas, SSC, Regina Marie Dudash, Michael & Lynn Dusza, Mary Dutcavich, Gloria Dymond, George Dzielak, Diana Ellis, Janet Encina, Othon & Christine Ernst, Anne Etsch, Suzanne Ezerski, Loretta Feliss, Bernice Fernandez, Rafael & Maria Filip, William & Joyce Funk, John & Loretta Gainer, James & Anne Galitski, Joseph & Elizabeth Gasunas, Mary Gavenda, Robert & Anne-Marie Gaytan, Andrea Geissler, Mary Gercius, Mary Anna Gestautas, Loretta Gilbert, Albert & Maryanne Glavin, Jeffrey Glock, Barbara Goldstein, Ann Golubickis, SSC, Janine Gomez, Imelda Gonzales, Joseph Grabowski, Nancy & Theodore Greco, Bob Green, Jo Ann Grigas, SSC, Delphine Gronskis, Elaine Gusich, Walter Habiak, Michelle Hackett, Andrea Brien Haizlip, Thomas Hanlon, Estelle Harden, Jon & Mary Hardy, Barbara Harton, Maureen

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Harwood, Monica Hattemer, Bruce Heenan, Teresita Heintz, James & Celia Hennig, Kenneth & Christine Herrbaldt, Keith & Joleen Hicks, Marilyn Hinder, John & Donna Hinojosa, Donna & Jorge Hoey, John & Linda Hoffman, Judith Hope, Patricia Horan, Carol Horton, Patricia Hoteko, Donna Hovel, Louise Howell, Pamela Illingworth, Patricia Jacob, Mercedita Janus, SSC, Bernadette Marie Jeronowitz, Robert Jesukaitis, Connie Johnson, Stella Jonelis, Anthony Jones, Terese Jones, Thomas & Cheryl Jones, Thomas & Karen Warus Juciene, Genovaite Juncer, Florence Junkus, Justin & Marilyn Juozapavicius, SSC, Maureen, Juska-Svoba, Regina Juskaitis, Regina Jusko, Olga Kahl, Teresa Kalafut, SSC, Grace Ann Kalvaitis, Joseph Kandel, Lillian Kapischke, Marian Karpovich, John & Diane Karpovich, SSC, Marilyn Kasarskis, Ed & Mary Kaunas, Vanda Kaupas, Otto Kay, Mary Ann Kelly, Dorothy Kelly, Robert & Marilyn Kennedy, Brian Kerr, Ken & Elaine Kessler, William & Marilyn Keyes, Jonathon Kiefer, John & Carol w w w. ssc 2601. com

JANUARY 1, 2018 – DECEMBER 31, 2018 Your donations help us to continue our ministries and to care for the health care needs of our Sisters.

Kilkus, Lucille King, Joe Kizelevicus, Raymond & Barbara Klein, Judith Klescewski, Catherine Kline, Tom & Mary Ann Knudson, Phyllis Koclanis, Gerri Kosmerl, Richard & Maureen Kripas, SSC, Genevieve Kroeck, George & Kathy Kroeck, Mary Krusnoski, Ellamae Kruszynski, Michaeline Krut, Genevieve Kubilius , Ramune Kuch, Frederick Kucy, Lawrence Kukula, Mary Kulawiak, Grace Kurek, Crystal Kwiatkowski Charles & Margaret Labencki, Bernie & Tossie Lake, Ruth Lally, John & Mary Land, Rose Lane, Margaret Lapenas, Elena Laukaityte, Ada Le Brun, Denise Lerner, Wayne & Sandye Levonaitis, Raymond Liewer, Evelyn Liotine, Joseph Lipperini, Rich & Irene Lipsett, Rose Lodato, Beverly Logue, Katherine & Neal Lopez, Efren Losch, James & Mary Lucas, Doris Lucas, Walter & Judith Lunardini, Jeanette Lynn, Art & Wendy MacDonald, Christine Maciora , Joseph Maclean, Diane Madden, John & Ginger Maher, Grace Malley, Art Mango, Louis & Helen Marcinkevicius, Dana Markus, Thomas & Ann w w w. ssc 2601. com

Martin, Bryan & Nancy Martinez, Donald & Julie Massel, Norman & Maria Puisis Mazeika, Ron Mazgelis, SSC, Margaret Mary McAdams, Jr., Charles McKenna, Mia McManus, Kenneth McNamara, Bernadette McTaggart, Janelle McTaggart, Michael & Virginia McTaggart, Steven & Traci Medinger, Marilyn Meisl, Frank & Denise Mele, Mary Louise Menard-Foster, Donna Mendoza, Mary Meola, Gertrude Merold, James Meyer, James Miara, James Micka, Lillian Mickus, Sheila Miernicki, Todd Miguez, Ruth Mikatavage, Mark Mikutis, Marianna Milam, Melanaie Miller, Barbara Miller, Barbara Jo Mindermann, Henrietta Minieka, Michael Miravich, John Miscavige, Daniel Mitchell, Anne Moceyunas, Vito Momkus, Marguerite Moran, Brenda Moran, Gloria Moroz, Paula Mosquera, Jeanne Mueller, Donald & Barbara Mugnaini, Mary Mullen, Joan Murphy, Kevin Mykolaitis, Raymond & Mary Napravnik, Louis Narusis, Regina Naujokas, Donna Naujokas, Joseph & Joan Naujokas, Raymond & Therese S ist er s

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Naujokas, Richard & Judy Nauseda, Mary Jane Nauyokas, Donald Nicki, Jayne Niemann, Tina North, Nancy Novak, Frank Novak, Robert O'connell, Tom O'Donnell, Mary O'Shea, Anna Belle O'Toole, Michael O'Toole, Regina Olsen, Gary & Diane Ormond, Neal & Mary Clark Ortiz, John & Rosamond Ottaviano,Vincent Owsinski, Thomas & Mary Pachankis, Lorraine Padilla, Linda Pakrosnis, Michael Palunas, Jadvyga Pantos, Barbara Paprzyca, Sandra Papsis, SSC, Theresa Parker, Donna Parkinson, Maureen Paskauskas, Cynthia Patrick, Jeff Paurazas , Rev. Peter Pavone, Anthony Pelletier, Phyllis Penkas, Linda Perona, Lena Pervenecki, Stanley Petcavage, Henry Peterson, Cecilia Petkus, Frances Petrauskas, SSC, M. Concetta Petronis, Charles & Margaret Phillips, Linda Piazza, Christopher & Patricia Piegari, Rochelle Polikaitis, Irena Politza, Joseph Pollock, Robert & Nancy Potts, Robert Primozic, Carol Puisis, Joanne Purtill, Robert & Donna Pusatera, Eileen Puzek, Margaret Quade,Vicki

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Quintela, Linda Rackauskas,Ramune Ramoska, SSC, Lourdine Ramoska, SSC, Philip Rassas, Most Rev. George Reagan, Sharon Reese, Eleanor Regeski, Peter Revas, SSC, Juline Ridick, George Riley, Bruce & Mary Beth Rinke, Tom Roberts, Maryann Rogers, Joanne Rojenches, Helen Roll, Robert & Marilyn Romanuski, SSC, Deborah Roscoe, Vincenza & Francis Rotkis, Judith Rouse, Art & Karen Rudinski, Anthony & Birute Rumsa, James Ruscavage, Adrienne Rushana, Bob & Gloria Ryscavage, Eugene & Rose Marie Sabaliauskas, Joe Salgado, Irene & Isidoro Sandoval, Christopher Sarokas, Gertrude Savickas, David Schenk, Margaret Schmeichel, Leonard Schultz, Paula Schultz, Richard & Alice Schumal, Michael Sellmyer, Catherine Serauskas, Joseph Setcavage, Jim & Dorothy Sewnig, Joyce Sharko, Gregory Sharow, Petronella Shemezis, Adam Shimkus, Stephen & Dorothy Shinners, Agnes Shirt, Eileen Shotas, Nancy Sitkus, Gerald Sitkus, Michael Sitkus Rosann Six, Ellen Skarnulis, William Skusevich, Daniel & Doris Skwarek, Teresa Slaustas, Charles 5

WE PRAY DAILY FOR OUR BENEFACTORS Smilga, Maria Smith, Dawn Smith, SSC, Kathleen Smith, Mary Smithson, Mary & John Sobotka, Joseph & Sylvia Sokas, Rosemary Sokas, Timothy & Regina Sokol, John & Mary Sowell, Patricia Sprainis, Michelle Stancikas, Helena Steffen, Denise Stewart, Bill & Barbara Stewart, Kenneth-Kazimieras Stoncius, Frank & Marilyn Strabel, Karen Straiges, Ronald Streitmatter, SSC, Nancy Strolia,Theresa Strom,Thomas Stropus, Antoinette Sturlis, Grace Sublousky, John Sudeikis, Thomas & Christine Swentkofske, Marv & Eleanor Tamalavage, Rita Tamosaitis, John Tamul, Jack Tan Creti, Michael & Jane Taran, Steve & Claudia Tenbroeck, Frances Tetelbaum, Roberta & Harvey Thomas, Michael & Margarita Thomas, Paul Toczylowski, Casimir Tomczuk, Sigita & Zygmunt Toth,Terry Tovar, Madeline Trickle, Lawrence & Marlene Trusiak, Peter & Virginia Udovic, Edward Uknalis, Irena Underwood, Mary Ann Vaicekauskas, Lorraine Valaitis, Carol Valentino, Marie Valenzuela, Mary Ann Van Lent, Eileen Vara, Ed & Corinne Vasileski, Marie Vatch, Steven Veatch, Barbara Villa, Jose & Clare 6

Vosahlik, Otto Vycius, Loretta Wachsman, Renee Wallacavage, Michael Walton, Grinny Wangen, Ronald & Kathy Warren, Mary Wasielewski, Rose Mary Wasik, Geraldine Waskow , Sharon Waszgis, Rose Wauhob, Christy Webb, Robert & Mary Wehling, Carla Weiland, Carl & Pat Weiner, Agnes Weirman, Eleanor Wendt, Michael Wheeler , Mary White, Joseph & Irene White, Lorita Wideikis, Eleanora Wild, Paul & Mary Winslow, Leonard & Vicki Winter, Thomas Wisneski, Emily Wohler, Debbie Wohlman, Alan Wright, Aldona & Harvey Wright-Charchek, Tina Yakamavich, Joe & Mary Yaklich, Robert & Roberta Yasak, Wendy Yenushosky, Daniel Yerkes, David Yerkes, SSC, Leandra Yocius, Dominick & Mary Zalatorius, Birute Zalot, SSC, Margaret Zander, Nannette Zelvys, SSC, Lucille Zilliox, John Zimont, Sophia Zinker, Edward Zurlis-Lally, Mary

Prayer

The overwhelming power of prayer Revealed in dark and scary times When one is blinded by fear and confusion God's radiant light penetrating throughout Revealed in dark and scary times Providing hope in shining armor God's radiant light is penetrating throughout Swaddling His children in comfort and peace Providing hope in shining armor As one enters their journey into the depths of the unknown Swaddling His children in comfort and peace Complete trust and faith given to persevere As one walks their journey into the depths of the unknown When one is blinded by fear and confusion Complete trust and faith given to persevere The overwhelming power of prayer After her visit to Chicago, Maria Middleton wrote this poem for an English class assignment and has allowed us to share it with Journeys readers. (Please see page 7 for Maria Middleton's interview about the power of prayer.)

The Sisters thank all of their benefactors and apologize for any names that may have been inadvertently omitted.

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Villa Joseph Marie

Student Shares Thoughts on Power of Prayer The Sisters of St. Casimir met Maria Middleton on February 15, 2019. Maria and her parents, Brian and Susan Middleton, and their pastor, Father Simione Volavola, MSC, from Pennsylvania, flew to Chicago for a time of prayer with the Sisters at Mother Maria's sarcophagus in the chapel at St. Casimir Center and an anointing service at Franciscan Village in Lemont. Maria agreed to openly share her experience with us. Maria, who is a sophomore at Villa Joseph Marie High School, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in late January.

How has your condition affected your activities? What about the spiritual aspect? Prayers? Support? Mother Maria Kaupas?

The diagnosis of my tumor completely changed my whole world. I always say how walking into the emergency room, my life was completely normal, but walking out, it suddenly and completely had changed.

It is a blessing that I am not experiencing many symptoms of the tumor and am able to function the way I had always been able to, but it also made the whole diagnosis weirder. It seems surreal. I was unable to fully grasp the reality of it all for a while. I was kind of just numb to everything, taking it one day at a time (and I still am doing that). The factor that is the reason why I was able to, and still am able to, deal with the life-changing news is the spiritual aspect of it and God’s presence throughout the whole journey.

What is the best way your friends, family, school community and others can support you in this journey?

The news of the tumor spread like wildfire among the faith community, and both my family and I could feel the uplifting power of God’s grace and love present throughout everything. The night I was diagnosed, no questions were answered. We all went to bed knowing absolutely nothing about what the next steps would be, the type of tumor, how far along it was, etc. So we (my parents and I) woke up anxiously awaiting for the doctors to come in and to get some answers, yet with all this uncertainty, we felt peace. When I woke up, my mom shared with me about how that night, she felt in her heart to pray for Mother Maria’s intercession, and as we did some research, we realized that Mother Maria was on her path to beatification and needed miracles to be recognized.

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This offered such a great sense of hope and has been a shining light throughout this whole journey. So far, this experience has taught me the importance of prayer and to never underestimate its power! I am proof of someone who spiritually and emotionally felt the tangible effect of the power of prayer, and I believe that if it were not for that love and support, I would not be able to tackle each day as I am now.

What would you say to another young person going through this type of challenge to encourage them?

The main way that I feel others can support me is through prayer. Like I said before, prayer is so powerful, and now I am starting to understand deeper its importance because I can feel its effect every day in my life.

My family and friends have been so supportive throughout this whole thing. Even just stopping by with food to check in and little things like that mean a lot in times like this. My church also has a rosary for me after the 10:30 masses on Sundays, and it’s so uplifting to have a group of people... warriors who sacrifice their time to pray as a community.

I would say to anyone else going through this or another illness is to just have hope and trust in God. Take it one day at a time because God will give you the grace to handle it in the moment (all you have to do is ask). It can be very easy to get wrapped up in tomorrow and worry, but try to stay in the present moment because that is where all of the blessings and mini-miracles are occurring.

Please see page 6 and read Maria Middleton's poem that she wrote for an English class at Villa Joseph Marie.

Sister Margaret Zalot, left, leads a prayer service at St.Casimir chapel near Mother Maria's sarcophagus on February 15, for Maria Middleton, her parents, Fr. Simione Volavola, and Sisters before going to Franciscan Village for the special prayer service.

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Sisters of Saint Casimir Community Assembly All the Sisters of St. Casimir and some SSC Associates gathered at Franciscan Village the last Saturday in January for an assembly in which they reflected on Together for a Great Love for the World.

They began with the center of the circle (pictured at right) as Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius reflected on how they have been working on the Quality of Life for the Sisters since Chapter 2018. Sister M. Immacula Wendt explained the development of the new legacy space and introduced a new project: considering the Sisters' archives and how to make them available for research and study.

Sister Margaret Petcavage explained the current televison documentary project being filmed by EWTN, the global, Catholic Television network, providing Catholic programming and news coverage from around the world, and Sister Margaret Zalot shared how the current website will be updated. Sister Regina Dubickas informed all those assembled on how the Sisters in Argentina were doing at this time, the various ways the community responds to needs connected to our mission as Sisters of St. Casimir, and how we specifically have responded to the health care needs in Bolivia through Solidarity Bridge.

The last presentation of the day was done by Ann Rhomberg, Executive Director of Solidarity Bridge. She explained the work that Solidarity Bridge does in Bolivia and other Latin American countries. Solidarity Bridge trains and equips medical communities to provide complex surgeries and health care for those living in poverty.

This all set the ground work for one of her reasons for coming: the presentation of a special award to Sister

Nancy Streitmatter, MD, for her 19 trips to Bolivia to assist the people there. Sister Nancy would travel with other medical volunteers to Bolivia and assess their heart functions, often making recommendations for surgery. The resulting surgeries were lifesaving for those children and adults receiving the surgeries.

In addition to Ann Rhomberg, four people who volunteered with Sister Nancy were also present for the Assembly. The assembly ended by all singing TOGETHER FOR A GREAT LOVE, knowing that the reach of their love goes beyond the limits of their own world.

Sister Nancy Streimatter, holding award plate, with former colleagues from Solidarity Bridge. At left, Sister Regina Dubickas holding the special cross representing SSC support of the missions in Bolivia, and front right, Ann Rhomberg.

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Valentine Friendship:

Mother Cyril and Mother Maria Friendship Letters Last summer the newly elected SSC Leadership team was able to spend July 5-14, 2018, with the Immaculate Heart of Mary Sisters in Scranton for their assembly and General Chapter. After the IHM's unanimously approved the covenant document, they processed outside to the Friendship Garden. This Friendship Garden is dedicated to the friendship between Mother Maria, SSC, and Mother Cyril, IHM. Sister Margaret Gannon, IHM, has compiled an exchange of letters between Mother Maria and Mother Cyril from 1907 to 1912 and from 1933 to 1939. These letters illustrate the depth and scope of the friendship between the two women that is the foundation of the love and trust among the Sisters of both congregations today.

Included in this compilation is a copy of the Valentine card Mother Cyril sent to Mother Maria while she was hospitalized at Holy Cross Hospital in 1934 after her cancer surgery. Included within the card was a personal note: You have been in my mind a good deal today. My thoughts of you have been somewhat serious and otherwise.

So, I’m sending you a Valentine. It’ ll make you feel that I am not as serious as I’m “otherwise” inclined today.

Devotedly, Sr. M. Cyril.

The original Valentine card from 1934.

Cover of the book compiled by Sister Margaret Gannon in 2018. w w w. ssc 2601. com

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Along the Way

Maria Kaupas Center:

Partners with The Trotter Project for Something Sweet

by Mindy Rueden

Executive Director, Maria Kaupas Center

Sometimes all it takes is proximity to discover a passion. This past fall, the after-school drop-in space of the Center was moved to the ground floor, occupying the cafeteria space and the adjoining rooms.

There is space for games, for conversation, for relaxing. It was an unexpected consequence that such close proximity to the industrial kitchen would result in a new interest in and ownership over Center celebrations.

It began with the Thanksgiving gathering. The teens determined the menu, the staff did the shopping, the teens did the cooking, and the Center celebrated. Christmas looked much the same. The enthusiasm in the kitchen has now led to greater collaboration with The Trotter Project (TTP), an organization that opens doors through education and mentorship in the global culinary and hospitality industries and provides scholarships for students to enter the industry.

In the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, interested teens gathered with Waldorf Astoria Executive Pastry Chef, Lizzy Sanchez, as well as current TTP students, for conversations and lessons in preparation for an MKC bake-off.

As the day of the competition arrived, four teams were in the ready, having selected a recipe and provided their shopping list. The kitchen became a bustle of activity— brownie cups being shaped and baked; chocolate ganache mixed and chilling; fondant rolled and cut; apple fritters baked and caramel glazed. The finished products were plated and presented to the judges. As the judges deliberated, the teams shared their masterpieces with the rest of the teens in the Center, earning praise and personal chef requests.

At the end of it all, though the Rocky Mountain Dynamic Duo took home the victory, every person present in the Center that day got to share in its sweetness.

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Along the Way

Mother Maria Kaupas Center (Mount Carmel, PA)

Jake Betz, Director of the Mother Maria Kaupas Center in Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania, creatively leads this organization throughout the year. By participation in winter or other school break service programs, summer athletic camps, student retreat programs or the unique

connection with Bucknell University, young people from Mount Carmel and surrounding coal mining towns find opportunities to grow and develop in new ways as do those who come to Mount Carmel to be of service.

The Mother Maria Kaupas Center in Mount Carmel held its fourth annual winter service program over the Christmas holiday season for college community service with projects for the Kaupas Center, in their home parishes, and within the community. Program participants were, from left, front row, Sean Fisher, Amanda Horan, Sydney Casey, and Alyssa Menko; second row, Michael Vincenzes, Luke Holleran, Ciaran Fisher, Alex Holleran, Lee Amarose, and Dylan Fiamoncini.

Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius dressed as Mother Maria for the filming of "They might be Saints."

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Filming a scene for the EWTN television documentary "They might be Saints" at St. Casimir Center chapel on January 6. From left, Fr. Jaunius Kelpsas, Fr. Tom Kasputis, and Fr. Gediminas Kersys. Dressed as Mother Maria's contemporaries, Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius and two professional actresses.

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Along the Way

Sisters Share Heritage, Legacy, and Friendship

Sister Debbie Borneman, SSCM, SSC Associate Debbie Machowski, and Sister Deborah Romanuski sharing friendship and conversation after monthly Mother Maria Mass.

Sister Rita Marie Kerdock, Sister Virginia Gapsis, and Sister Deborah Romanuski celebrated Heritage Day at St. Barbara's parish in Chicago.The celebration began with Mass, followed by eight ethnic groups sharing their culture and traditions.

Sisters of St. Casimir Commissioning of Partners in Mission at St Casimir Center chapel on February 21, 2019. Partners in Mission were asked to renew their commitment of time, talents, and energies to the mission and life of the Sisters of St. Casimir as it continues to unfold in its new reality. From left: Bob Kristy, Paul Binkis, Mary Beth McCarthy, Fran Tenbroeck, Daina Cyvas, Susan Binkis, Sister Immacula Wendt, Sister Margaret McTaggart, Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius, Sister Margaret Zalot, Sister Regina Dubickas, and Sister Dolorine Lopez.

Celebrating National Catholic Sisters Week 2019 at St. Casimir Center on March 14. Front row, left: Sister Immacula Wendt, Fran Tenbroeck, Karen Strabel, Lucy Ramos, Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius, Sister Dolorine Lopez, Cheryl Tolish, Sister Regina Dubickas, Sister Margaret Zalot, Sister Rose Nakibuuka, Sister Margaret McTaggart, Don Skarr, Daina Cyvas. Back row, from left: Bob Kristy, Donna Brooks, Luke Darragh, Tony Ferro, Mary Beth McCarthy, Patrick Milhouse, John Delaney, Christine Bucko, Ed Hoak.

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At Journey’s End

— Eternal Days Beginning

Sister Mary Balkus, SSC December 1,1925 – December 26, 2018

Sister Mary was born on December 1, 1925, in Chicago, IL, to Mary and Konstant Balkus. She was the third in a family of four children. Her parents expected their children to practice their faith and share love and respect with all they would meet.

Sister Mary attended Ambrose E. Burnside Elementary School and then St. Casimir Academy. It was at the academy that she began feeling attracted to the religious life. At the age of 20, Sister Mary entered the Sisters of St. Casimir. She professed her first vows in 1948 and celebrated her Silver Jubilee in 1973, her Golden Jubilee in 1998, and her Diamond (60 years) Jubilee in 2008.

One of Sister Mary’s greatest joys and accomplishments was that of being a teacher. She earned a B.S. degree in Education in 1962 from Marywood College in Scranton, PA, and her M. A. in History in 1967 from Loyola University, Chicago, IL. From 1948 until 1960, Sister Mary taught in elementary schools: Sts. Peter and Paul, Our Lady of Vilna, and St. George schools in Chicago, IL, and St. Alphonsus school in Baltimore, MD. In 1960 she was asked to move into secondary education, where she remained until retiring from full-time ministry in 2004.

From 1967-1976 Sister Mary served as principal of Villa Joseph Marie High School (VJM) in Holland, PA. An article published in the Bucks County Courier Times in 1973 quotes Sister Mary: “We’re interested in educating the whole person.…We are trying to make our student a leader or a career person or whatever she chooses to be. We want them to step into the world as they see it with their values intact.” In 2014 Sister Mary was inducted into the VJM Wall of Fame in recognition of her excellence as a principal.

The rest of Sister Mary’s years in secondary education were spent at Maria High School in Chicago, IL, where she taught U. S. Government, U. S. History, and English. While at Maria, she continued to expand her education, taking part in many non-degree certificate programs, such as Illinois State Constitution Workshop and Howard A. Taft Institute on Political Parties. These not only broadened her horizons, but they were the w w w. ssc 2601. com

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springboard for how she wanted her students to go beyond the classroom walls and put their knowledge to use.

In a Southwest News-Herald issue Sister Mary is pictured with several of her students who won awards in an essay contest on affordable housing. On the same occasion she was presented with a U.S. history and government award for her efforts in making students conscious of housing concerns in Illinois. One of Sister Mary’s students received a Congressional Bronze Medal for her many volunteer hours of community service, something that Sister Mary always encouraged in her students.

When Sister Mary retired from full time teaching in 2004, she offered her services in the Sisters of St. Casimir Food Pantry. Sister Mary loved following the accomplishments of her students, noting with pride their success in life and professional aspirations. In 2009 she moved to the Motherhouse infirmary because she needed more care. When the decision was made to transfer the Motherhouse to Catholic Charities and move to Franciscan Village, Sister Mary became part of the community of Sisters at Our Lady of Victory Convent, and later, became a resident of Mother Theresa Home. Initially, she was able to take part in some of the activities, including using her history and educational background to become a winner in games of Trivial Pursuit. Her ministry of a kind, welcoming presence was evident in her warm greetings to everyone.

Sister Mary was especially devoted to Mary, the Mother of God, having a special devotion to Our Lady of Medjugorje. Many people requested Sister Mary to pray for them, sometimes needing help in desperate situations with little hope of solution. The miracle of answered prayer brought her great joy when she would receive a call or a letter thanking her for her prayers.

Sister Mary’s wonderful, smiling presence was a gift.

Her eyesight was failing but her inner sight beheld beauty.

The TV in her room was set to EWTN, which led her in praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet and the rosary she often held in her hand. May she know the fullness of joy and peace in God's presence forever.

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At Journey’s End

— Eternal Days Beginning

Sister Andreata Naudziunas , SSC August 23, 1922 – February 22, 2019 Sister Andreata Naudziunas (formerly Frances) was the fourth of six children born to Emilia and Andrew Naudziunas in South Boston, MA, on August 23, 1922. Sister Andreata described her parents as prayerful people who nurtured the life of faith in their children.

Sister Andreata graduated from Oliver H. Perry Elementary School and continued her education at Nazareth High School where she was taught

by Sisters. When she was nearing graduation from high school in 1939, she wrote a letter to Mother Maria, who was the General Superior. In part, Sister Andreata wrote, “Ever since I have been thinking more seriously about my vocation, I have been frightened a little but still my heart seems to have found a peace and quiet, so I earnestly believe I am on the right road.” She made her first vows on August 15, 1942, celebrated her Silver Jubilee in 1967, her Golden Jubilee in 1992, and had the joy of celebrating a true Diamond Jubilee in 2017 - 75 years as a Sister of St. Casimir.

Sister Andreata received a BA degree from Marywood College in Scranton, PA, in secondary education, and continued studies at De Paul University and Loyola University in Chicago, IL. Her ministry in education spanned 33 years teaching in both elementary and secondary levels.

Sister Andreata taught in schools in Massachusetts, Illinois, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, and New Mexico. Her ministry in secondary education began at Sacred Heart High School in Nebraska and continued at Villa Joseph Marie High School in Holland, PA. Her teaching areas focused on business skills and accounting, shorthand, typewriting, English, and social studies. During 11 of the years in elementary education, she served a dual role of teaching and accounting. She offered her services in the business office of Holy Cross Hospital as an accounting clerk.

In 1970, Sister Andreata was elected General Treasurer of the Sisters of St. Casimir and came to live in the Motherhouse. This was the beginning of 27 years in the ministry of fiscal management for the community. As General Treasurer, she served on the Holy Cross Hospital Board of Trustees and the Finance Committee, as well as the Finance Committee of Loretto Hospital.

After two terms of service as the General Treasurer, she returned to Villa Joseph Marie High School where she continued to teach and to serve in the business office as well as at St. Joseph Home. In 1986, Sister Andreata returned to Chicago where she worked in the business office of Holy Cross Hospital for the next 14 years. Fully engaged in the health care ministry, Sister Andreata had opportunities 14

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for education and training: improving communication skills and interview techniques and learning about preretirement issues and cost containment. She continued to live at Holy Cross Hospital convent until 2006, serving in various capacities both within the hospital, at the Maria High School Alumnae Office, and helping to prepare bags of food in the St. Elizabeth Food Pantry sponsored by the community.

Sister Andreata once described her religious life in this way: “Religious life has been a kaleidoscopic experience.

There were neither miracles nor apparitions just the joys and sorrows of ordinary living. Working with God’s people in small cities, in large cities, in coal mining towns, in rural areas, in the north and west, and in suburbia – all added color to the kaleidoscope.”

Whatever Sister Andreata did was done to perfection, to the utmost detail. Her beautiful crocheted items continue to grace the homes of many who were fortunate to be the recipients of her work. Her treasured memory was the day Cardinal Francis George, Archbishop of Chicago, came to the Motherhouse to celebrate the Eucharist with the first group of Sisters who would be leaving the Motherhouse for Franciscan Village. The Sisters had prepared prayer shawls for the Cardinal to bless. Among them was a special one that Sister Andreata had made for the Cardinal, who was in treatment for cancer.

Sister Andreata was an avid reader. After moving to Our Lady of Victory Convent in 2014, one of the first things she did was to walk past the many bookcases in one of the rooms to see which books she might choose. In addition to her love of reading, she enjoyed the challenge of working the daily crossword puzzles from the newspaper. Sister Andreata was into walking before it became a popular thing to do. If she had a pedometer, it could have counted the number of steps she took in her walks around the Motherhouse yard, the grounds at Villa Joseph Marie, and walking the circumference of Marquette Park in Chicago. Her yearly amaryllis plant brought her great joy as she watched it grow and delighted in the blossoms as they opened, displaying their beautiful color.

Sister Andreata was surrounded by a lot of love in her last days as she continued to experience diminishment.

Special gratitude to Sister Elizabeth Ann, who helped in every detail of Sister Andreata’s transition, not only with the material needs, but with kindness, patience, and love, answering all of Sister Andreata’s questions and concerns, sharing what was happening, and encouraging her every step of the way.

Sister Andreata wanted the blinds in her room to be kept open at night so she could look at the sky and see the stars as she thanked God for the day. Perhaps it was those stars that led her back to God to whom she promised her life and love so many years ago.

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Sister M. Lucille Zelvys, SSC February 7, 1935 – March 1, 2019

Sister Lucille Zelvys was born on February 7, 1935, in Tau rage, Lithuania, to Peter and Albina Zelvys. She and her sister Nijole were identical twins. As the dangers of the war zone drew near, the Zelvys family was forced to flee to Germany where the government had established refugee camps for displaced people. Everyone expected to return home, but Lithuania was given to the Soviet Union. In 1949, Sister Lucille’s family emigrated to the United States. There, in Chicago, they began a new life.

The family moved into the North Side apartment their sponsors had rented for them. When it came time for high school, Sister Lucille and her sister decided to attend St. Casimir Academy in Marquette Park, where many Lithuanian immigrants had settled. Because the girls found it difficult to travel to school in the winter, after a year they transferred to St. Clement High School.

Following graduation, Sister Lucille worked in an office while earning 27 credits at DePaul University.

Sister Lucille had been contemplating religious life.

She prayed to the Blessed Mother to show her the way.

At the age of 19, Sister Lucille asked to enter the Sisters of St. Casimir. Her letters of recommendation praised her maturity, her ability, and most of all her faithfulness.

Sister Lucille professed her first vows as a Sister of St. Casimir on August 15, 1957, celebrated her Silver Jubilee in 1982, her Golden Jubilee in 2007, and her Diamond Jubilee (60 years) in 2017. She continued her studies, earning a B.A. degree from Marywood University in Scranton, PA, an R.N. from St. Francis School of Nursing, and, eventually, a B.S.N. from Loyola University.

Sister Lucille began her ministry as a teacher. For six years, she taught elementary grades at Providence of God and Immaculate Conception (Brighton Park) schools in Chicago and at Sacred Heart Elementary School in Emerson, Nebraska.

In 1963 Sister Lucille was asked to go into the medical field. After graduating from St. Francis School of Nursing, she served in both hospital and school settings, including Antelope Memorial Hospital in Neligh, Nebraska; Villa Joseph Marie High School (school nurse); Loretto Hospital in Chicago (nursing supervisor); and w w w. ssc 2601. com

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Maria High School (school nurse and home nursing instructor for juniors and seniors).

Sister Lucille ministered for 35 years at Chicago’s Holy Cross Hospital. There she took on many demanding roles such as ICU nurse, nursing supervisor, and special procedures assistant where she aided in complex medical processes. In commenting on her health care ministry, Sister Lucille said, “. . .There were a few times I had the opportunity to initiate life saving measures for a patient, and those moments were very rewarding. But the most important thing I learned was the importance of doing the Lord’s will.”

When she had to discontinue active nursing, Sister Lucille offered to write hospital protocols. Her efforts helped improve care. She also collected and analyzed thousands of patient satisfaction surveys for Holy Cross Hospital.

In recognition of her work, Sister Lucille was honored at a leadership meeting with a standing ovation as the speaker proclaimed, “When it comes to tracking Holy Cross Hospital progress, and doing it meticulously, Sister Lucille is in a league all her own.”

Sister Lucille continued her health care ministry when she moved to the Motherhouse in 2007 by assisting with the care of Sisters in the infirmary. Sister Lucille also asked to take care of setting up for daily Mass and all liturgical functions. She performed these tasks with great love and reverence.

Sister Lucille continued to use her great computer skills to serve others at Franciscan Village by facilitating communications between the Motherhouse and the Sisters.

She also put her skills to work by using Skype to keep in touch with her family in Lithuania. Love for her homeland remained in her heart.

Appreciative of all she had done in her life, Sister Lucille reminisced at her Golden Jubilee, “As I look back over the past 50 years, I feel grateful to God for blessing me with His graces in so many ways and letting me live long enough to celebrate the 100th anniversary of our Community’s founding.”

Although Sister Lucille experienced deep suffering toward the end of her life, she died peacefully on the morning of March 1st. Her last words were spoken to the nurse who was assisting her, “Lord, please take me.” Hearing her prayer and affirming her life-long faith, God took her home to Himself.

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Journeys Sisters of St. Casimir 2601 W. Marquette Road Chicago, IL 60629

Non-Profit Organization US POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 42 So. Suburban, IL

JOURNEYS is published by The Sisters of St. Casimir This publication is sent free of charge to relatives, friends and benefactors of the Sisters of St. Casimir. We thank you for the voluntary donations that you send to help us defray the cost of printing, postage and handling.

Editor: Daina Cyvas, Communications and Project Coordinator dcyvas@ssc2601.com Adviser: Sister Margaret Zalot, SSC Contact us: 773-776-1324 www.ssc2601.com

The following is the welcome that greets you when you enter the Legacy Rooms of the Sisters of St. Casimir.

We invite you to visit the St. Casimir Center at 2601 West Marquette Road.

The Legacy Rooms are open daily, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For larger groups, please call 773.349.8064 to schedule a tour.

You are standing on holy ground. The story you are about to experience is that of the Sisters of St. Casimir: their founding, the ways they have embraced their mission to foster the life of faith, and how they responded with generosity and compassion to the needs of their time. It is our hope that, as you journey through this exhibit, you will be inspired by the spirit of love and dedication of the Sisters and their foundress, Mother Maria Kaupas, and will express this inspiration in the unique living of your own life. May the dream and the journey of faith and service continue through you.

Our story begins in the heart of a courageous young woman from Lithuania, who came to the United States and discovered her life’ s purpose.

The Sisters of St. Casimir

April 6, 2019

Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m.

Commemorating the 79th Anniversary of Mother Maria's Death

April 13, 2019

SCA-MHS Alumnae Reunion Palos Country Club 11:00-3:00 p.m.

More information: 773-925-8686

May 4, 2019

Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m.

June 1, 2019

Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m.

August 24, 2019

Founders' Day Mass 112th Anniversary of the SSC Founding Celebration and Missioning, 9:30 a.m.

October 5, 2019

Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m.

November 2, 2019

All Souls' Remembrance and Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m.

July 5, August 3, September 7, 2019 No Mother Maria Mass