SSC Journeys Summer 2014

Journeys Sisters of St. Casimir

Vol. XXVIII No. 2 Summer 2014

Now

Behold, I am Doing Something New Behold, I am Doing Something Now

Beginning Something New with Prayers and Blessings

ge

Geor l a n i d r a C

SSC E

s mployee

Nativity BVM Par

ish

Commu

nity Le

aders

A Message from the SSC Leadership Dear Friends,

July 2014 marked a historic event in the life of the Sisters of St. Casimir. Twenty eight of our Sisters moved from our Motherhouse in Chicago to Franciscan Village in Lemont, IL. This issue of Journeys documents some of what occurred prior to “the move,” “the move itself,” and what is happening now as we continue our sacred journey.

The days prior to the move were filled with much activity—packing, preparing for the move, saying goodbye. We were deeply touched by the visit of Francis Cardinal George who asked to celebrate the Eucharist with our community before the first Sisters left. He blessed the prayer shawls that each Sister would receive as she left for her new home, and was surprised when we also presented him with one specially made for him.

There was a beautiful farewell prepared by Fr. Jaunius Kelpsas, pastor of Nativity BVM parish, that included a Eucharistic Liturgy, a special meal, a rose for each Sister, and words of gratitude from various people about their relationship with our Sisters. We have a long history with Nativity from the very beginning when parishioners celebrated Mass in our Motherhouse chapel until their church was built and as our Sisters staffed Nativity School with administrators and teachers over many years.

Much of what was shared at the reception related to the excellent education they and their children had received from our Sisters as well as the help our Sisters extended to immigrants from Lithuania in learning the English language and making a new land their home.

There was also a heartwarming farewell from the members of the various organizations that are part of the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) who gathered at the Motherhouse for an interfaith prayer service. Leaders of these organizations spoke about how deeply they are inspired by the example and steadfast commitment of our Sisters to the people of our neighborhood. They appreciate our faithfulness in providing a quality education for our children at Catalyst Maria Charter School (formerly Maria High School), after school programs at the Maria Kaupas Catholic Center, and health care at Holy Cross Hospital (now part of Sinai Health System), as well as our collaboration with SWOP on the critical issues of housing, immigration, and safety. Father Tony Pizzo, OSA 2

S ist er s

of

Sr. Immacula Wendt, Sr. Regina Dubickas, General Superior, Sr. Margaret Zalot, and Sr. Theresa Dabulis prayed the closing blessing that included the following: “We are grateful for the many gifts that Mother Maria and the Sisters of St. Casimir have made possible. You have made a lasting and deep impression through your mission, ministry, and your willingness to walk with us through very difficult times.” The prayer service was followed by a reception and the gift of a rose for each Sister.

Throughout all this time of preparation our Sisters were surrounded by so much love and support for which we are deeply grateful. Change is never easy. Goodbyes are always hard. Those of us who have experienced leaving places and people we have come to love know that the “hello” is not far behind. Our hearts, already broken open by the pain of letting go, are now open to welcome and embrace the new avenues for fulfilling our mission.

This is the journey all of us Sisters of St. Casimir are on as we live into the mystery of God in our lives. We believe that, wherever we are, we will find new life and new blessings.

While the outer journey has taken place, the inner journey of moving toward fully and generously entrusting an unknown future to a known and loving God is much more difficult and will take a longer time. We are living a historic moment in our community. The call of God heard in the heart of our foundress, Venerable Mother Maria Kaupas, continues to be heard in the heart of every Sister of St. Casimir, calling forth our generous response, our deep faith and trust, our openness to new ways of being. We pray that we may live our response well and contribute to the unfolding of the continuing story of the Sisters of St. Casimir in this, our time.

We are grateful to you, our dear friends, for your love and support. Wherever we are, we Sisters of St. Casimir will continue to live out our charism and mission. Be assured that we hold you in our prayers and in our hearts and wish you joy. May our loving and faithful God bless you and your loved ones with all that you need.

S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2014

w w w. ssc 2601. com

O

Blessings from Cardinal George

n Saturday, May 24, Francis Cardinal George was welcomed to the SSC Motherhouse where he celebrated a special liturgy with the Congregation and joined the Sisters for dinner. When the Cardinal had heard that a number of Sisters would be moving to Franciscan Village, he asked to celebrate Mass with them before they left. The Sisters appreciated this beautiful and thoughtful gesture.

Cardinal George models the prayer shawl made especially for him

by Sister Andreata Naudziunas.

(Clockwise) Deacon Joseph Panek, Rev. Daniel A. Flens, Francis Cardinal George, Sister Immacula Wendt, and Sister Grace Ann Kalafut process out of the SSC chapel after the liturgy.

a jubilee feast!” Following the dinner, Cardinal George blessed over 30 prayer shawls. These were crocheted or knitted by Sister Andreata Naudziunas, Sister Salvatore Ciuckyte, Sister Nancy Streitmatter, Paula Schultz, Wendy Lynn, Joanne Wysinski, and the ladies from Our Lady of Loretto Parish (Hometown, IL) Prayer Shawl Ministry.

The shawls had been lovingly stitched with prayers for each of the Sisters moving to assisted living and skilled care at Franciscan Village.

The liturgy was fitting for the day: beautiful Easter music filled the air. Sister Theresa Papsis played the organ and Anna Belle O’Shea, the flute. Cardinal George sang the Eucharistic Prayer. Though there was a hint of sadness that some of the Sisters would soon be leaving the Motherhouse, there was also a sense of joy in being together and receiving a blessing for the journey.

Those Sisters who were to be moving in July enjoyed their meal in the company of Cardinal George and all their Sisters. One of the Sister exclaimed, “It was like Sister Grace Carol Wastak (center) leads the Sisters in a prayer to Ven. Mother Maria to aid in the Cardinal's healing and strength.

Sister Andreata Naudziunas (left) and all of the Sisters joined in.

Cardinal George has special words for the Sisters as they prepare to move from the Motherhouse. From left: Sisters Reginald Tamulevich, Johanna Marie Shainauskas, Zita Petkevicius, and Delphine Grigas. w w w. ssc 2601. com

S ist er s

of

After Sister Andreata's beautiful message of comfort and healing for Cardinal George was read aloud, Cardinal George was presented with his own prayer shawl, beautifully knit by Sister Andreata. Before the Cardinal left the dining room, Sister Grace Carol Wastak led the Sisters in praying to Mother Maria for healing and strength for the Cardinal. Cardinal George made one last stop before leaving the Motherhouse. He visited Sister Ann Therese Radziunas in the infirmary, where he gave her a special blessing. Sister Ann Therese thanked the Cardinal. Two days later, Sister Ann Therese completed her earthly journey.

S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2014

3

C

Community Leaders Say "Thank You" to the Sisters of Saint Casimir

ommunity leaders are open to the challenges gathered on July 1, of our times ..."

2014, in the chapel Quoting another letof the Sisters of St. Casimir ter from Venerable Mother Motherhouse to extend a Maria written in 1932, Rafi warm “thank you” to the Peterson, of CeaseFire, conSisters for their many years tinued the theme of trustof committed service to the ing in the Lord while facing Chicago Lawn/Marquette challenges: “God’s future Park neighborhood. The plans for us or our Congreevent was an opportunity gation are unrevealed. But for members of many dione thing is certain: God verse organizations, all loves us and nothing will working toward a safe and happen without his knowlstable community, to come edge." together and voice their ap Jeff Bartow, Executive preciation for the Sisters.

Director of the SouthRev. Anthony Pizzo, OSA and Lori Pacura, President, Holy Cross The inter-faith service was west Organizing Project Hospital, greet Sister Bernadette Marie Janus. led by Rev. Anthony Pizzo, (SWOP), shared a reflecOSA, pastor of St. Rita of tion about the Sisters as beCascia Parish, who offered a heartfelt welcome to all. ing “Pillars of the Community.” He began by sharing

The prayer service highlighted the mission and ministry of the Sisters of St. Casimir using words from scripture, Mother Maria's writings, and the SSC Mission Statement. Alia Bilal, from Inner-city Muslim Action Network (IMAN), began by beautifully reading an excerpt of a letter from Venerable Mother Maria Kaupas to her Sisters: “Let us strengthen our will with firm resolve to be steadfast in doing good, trusting God to walk courageously the path marked out for us by his grace.”

Next, Ghian Foreman, Executive Director of Greater Southwest Development Organization (GSDC), read from the Sisters of St. Casimir mission statement: “Wherever we are, our ministries reflect Jesus’ concern for the Sister Elaine Kuizinas receives a blessing from participants whole person ... With courage and trust in the Lord, we of the inter-faith prayer service.

Sister Marilyn Karpovich (right) chats with Alia Bilal of IMAN (center) and a friend.

4

S ist er s

of

the three words he felt best described the Sisters of St. Casimir: faith, commitment, and courage.

He quoted Micah 6:8, “You have been told … do the right and love goodness, and walk humbly with your God.” Jeff said that this has inspired him, for he has seen the Sisters truly live in this manner. He assured the Sisters, “... your presence will always be felt here … You have left a legacy … Your peace has engulfed this neighborhood.”

Jeff recalled that the Sisters of St. Casimir were founding members of the South- "Community Leaders" west Catholic Cluster Project, continued on page 5

S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2014

w w w. ssc 2601. com

O

Nativity BVM Parish Celebrates the SSCs

n Sunday, June 22, 2014, the parishioners of Nativity BVM offered a fond farewell to those Sisters who would be leaving the SSC Motherhouse for assisted living facilities in Franciscan Village, Lemont, IL. During the Lithuanian Mass, Reverend Jaunius Kelpsas, pastor, acknowledged the Sisters’ many contributions to the parish and the neighboring community. He especially thanked Sister Salvatore Ciuckyte for her years of dedicated service to Nativity BVM school and parish. The entire assembly affirmed her with a standing ovation. The Sisters of St. Casimir have ministered at Nativity BVM Parish since its founding in 1927.

Sister Salvatore Ciuckyte greets Nativity BVM friends.

From left, Sisters Lorraine Therese Siminas, Sylvia Puchoras, Evelyn Vichuras, Therese Banach, and Janine Golubickis enjoy the luncheon prepared in honor of the Sisters of St. Casimir.

After the Mass, the Sisters were treated to a luncheon in their honor, which was served in the school hall.

Sister Regina Dubickas, General Superior, shared about the Sisters' future plans and thanked Father Kelpsas and all present for their good wishes during these times of transition.

Sisters Philip Ramoska (left) and Lourdine Ramoska appreciate the fond farewell.

"Community Leaders" continued from page 4

of the city. After the 9/11 terrorist attack, the Sisters encouraged supportive bonds with the Muslim community which developed into what is now the Southwest Orgain many ways. The Sisters were leaders in standing up nizing Project, a broad-based organization of churches, against predatory lenders. They’ve listened to the stories mosques, schools, and other institutions in Southwest of undocumented immigrants and came toChicago, which work together to address gether to support them. issues and concerns that affect Southwest As the Sisters took part in the strategic Chicago's diverse residents, neighborhoods, planning for a stable neighborhood, they and institutions. He emphasized that the worked toward planning their own future Sisters actively worked towards building realways keeping in mind the good of the lationships across racial, ethnic, and faith community. The recent Holy Cross Hosdifferences so the common concerns could pital merger with Sinai Health Care, and be brought into the public life of the comCatalyst-Maria Charter School in the formunity with the various contingents standmer Maria High School, are examples of ing, as a whole, for and with each other. their faithfulness. Jeff thanked the Sisters

Examples of the Sisters’ ministry in acon behalf of all of the community represention are many, and Jeff highlighted just a tatives, and voiced: “Now we are committed few. While sponsoring Maria High School, the Sisters proactively provided a model of Sister Evelyn Vichuras accepts to standing with you as you move forward.”

Sister Bernadette heartfelt words from Joe awareness of racial and cultural diversity "Community Leaders" which was not found in many other parts Raspante, Holy Cross Hospital Marie Janus re- continued on page 9 Facilities Director. sponded to Jeff and

w w w. ssc 2601. com

S ist er s

of

S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2014

5

"I a but a m packe d, m – Sr. Mari I ready? lyn K " uzmi ckus

Behold!

fect he p e r t e r a s "Donut ess relief." nus str arie Ja M e t t ernade – Sr. B

I am doing something new.

Can you not perceive it?

6

– Isaiah 43:19

"Did I forget anything?"

– Sr. Lucille Zelvys

Moving Into

The flurry of activity within the SSC Motherhouse these past few months peaked in July. After years of prayers, assembly meetings, consultations, and discernment, the Sisters of St. Casimir have embarked upon a new chapter in the life of the congregation.

Sharing the reality of fewer members and rising median age that many other vowed religious communities across the country are experiencing, the Sisters of St. Casimir have begun to implement steps to ensure the well-being of their Sisters while continuing to live their ministry and mission.

The Sisters have chosen Franciscan Village as their new home. Franciscan Village is a senior living community that offers independent and assisted living apart-

S ist er s

of

S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2014

w w w. ssc 2601. com

"Thank you for – Sr. Pa the flowers." ulissa P uisis

box? e in this ius b t h ig c m "What zabeth Ann Yo – Sr. Eli

"Something New"

" "My pra yer sha comfor wl is a t in my n e w ho m – Sr. Ro e." salinda Grigonis

ments, as well as skilled care and rehabilitation facilities.

It is sponsored by the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago and daily Mass is offered in two beautiful chapels on the campus.

There were, indeed, tears shed by those Sisters who were moving as they bid farewell to Sisters and employees who would remain at the Motherhouse, as well as the Motherhouse itself which Venerable Mother Maria established in Chicago over 100 years ago, and its beautiful chapel. But their trust in God carried them forward, with the words of their beloved Mother Maria echoing in their hearts: “God’s future plans for us or our Congregation are unrevealed. But one thing is certain: God loves us and nothing will happen without his knowledge."

The Sisters have been blessed with much help and support from many sources, including the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Scranton, PA, the Sisters of Saints Cyril and Methodius, SSC Associates, Auxiliary members, relatives, employees, and community friends.

w w w. ssc 2601. com

S ist er s

of

S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2014

7

St. Joan of Arc School Celebrates 60 Years

S

t. Joan of Arc School in Aberdeen, Maryland, celebrated its 60th anniversary May 30, the feast day of its namesake. Sister Margaret Petcavage, who taught 5th through 8th grade at the Aberdeen school from 1976 to 1977, attended the festivities and represented the Sisters of St. Casimir, who founded the school and served there until 1997.

To raise funds for Sister Margaret’s plane ticket to Baltimore, students and faculty donated money to "dress down" on several occasions. Sister Margaret said it was “exhilarating” to return to St. Joan of Arc. “I love it,” she said. “It’s about the same; it’s just as lively — a sign of a successful school.”

During her visit, Sister Margaret talked to students about her memories from her time at St. Joan of Arc and her current role as vice postulator, promoting the cause of sainthood for Venerable Mother Maria Kaupas, foundress of the Sisters of St. Casimir.

Two of the current teachers fondly remember Sister Ann Therese Radziunas, the last SSC Principal of St. Joan of Arc School, and the entire school prayed for Sister Ann Therese, who died that morning, during their morning prayer service. Sister Margaret met former students, and even a daughter of a former student!

R

Through their website (www.ssc2601.com) the Sisters heard from a 1988 graduate of St. Joan of Arc who wrote about the wonderful influence the Sisters of St. Casimir had on her life, naming her principals, Sister Jeanette Uzdavinis and Sister Ann Therese Radziunas, her math teacher, Sister Mary Frances Caplin, and her first grade teacher, Sister Milda Blinstrubas.

SCA-MHS All School Reunion

eunion 2014 began with Mass praying for the beatification of Mother Maria Kaupas in the Motherhouse Chapel on May 5. One hundred thirty alums and Sisters celebrated their friendships, high school memories, and the seeds of faith that were nurtured at St. Casimir Academy and Maria High School. A catered champagne brunch was enjoyed, and class photos were taken in the Motherhouse auditorium, which was decorated with blue and gold star balloons. Each alum found a spoon tied with a blue ribbon

Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius catches up with classmates (from left) Nancy Kaupas North, Lori Leleika Mavrovic, and Paula Staisiunas Schultz.

8

Sister Margaret Petcavage talks to students about her time at St. Joan of Arc School and her current role as vice postulator, promoting the cause of sainthood for Venerable Mother Maria Kaupas.

S ist er s

of

with St. Casimir engraved on the handle and a World's Finest Chocolate bar at her place. The spoons were used at events in the Motherhouse, and Maria alums will remember selling hundreds of chocolate bars over the years.

Among the many raffle prizes, alums had the opportunity to win several of Sister Margaret Mary Mazgelis’ floral arrangements and Sister Maureen Juozapavicius’ homemade banana bread. Maria T-shirts and sweatshirts, along with other memorabilia, were for sale, and Mystic softball uniform shirts, basketball jerseys, and track uniforms were free for the taking. Paintings by Sister Mercedes were displayed and available for purchase. Sister Clement Mazgelis was on hand to sell Lithuanian crafts, amber jewelry, and other precious items. Both school songs were sung and much energy filled the auditorium.

That afternoon, many alums toured the Maria Kaupas Center, located in the former Maria High School Convent, and Catalyst-Maria High School and Elementary School, in the former MHS building, where they were able to get a close-up look of the SCA-MHS Legacy Wall in the Auditorium Foyer and be reminded of the 102 years of quality education that occurred at St. Casimir Academy and Maria High School.

S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2014

w w w. ssc 2601. com

SSCs Are Honored During National Catholic Sisters Week

N

ational Catholic Sisters Week was launched the second week of March (March 8-14, 2014) as part of National Women’s History Month. Its intent was to shine a national spotlight on the good works of Catholic Sisters. Locally, the Sisters Sister Paulissa Puisis thanks a pre-school student for a brightly of St. Casimir were honored colored star which included a at many community events. thank you for sharing God's love.

The week was “kickedoff” at the Motherhouse with a visit from Nativity Early Childhood Center pre-schoolers, accompanied by scholars from the Maria Kaupas Center (MKC). A rendition of “This Little Light of Mine” set the tone. A short reading from the introduction of “Kaze’s True Home,” a child's book about Venerable Mother Maria, followed. The pre-schoolers then presented each Sister with a brightly colored star they had made, which had the inscription, “Thank you for showing us God’s love.” While the teen leaders said a blessing in words, the pre-schoolers solemnly placed their hands on the shoulders of the Sisters as a sign of blessing.

On Monday the SSC Employees at the Motherhouse surprised the Sisters during dinner with carnations for each Sister, cupcakes, and “I am proud to be an SSC”

stickers. The employees went to both the main dining room and the infirmary dining room with their gifts and warm wishes.

Holy Cross Hospital displayed SSC posters in the main lobby and in the cafeteria at Holy Cross Hospital, and Sister Laura Parker, S.P., Director of Spiritual Services, invited the SSCs to lunch with employees on March 12. This provided the opportunity for informal sharing of various aspects of the SSC story with HCH employees.

Friday marked the close of National Catholic Sisters Week. The MKC celebrated this inaugural event by inviting the Sisters of St. Casimir to come and talk about their lives in a Q & A format with the teens. As noted on the MKC blog: The Sisters answered questions with sincerity and good humor. . . .

[They] offered one last piece of advice to our teens: "There's someone who guides you – you just have to SSC employees Margie Forseth and Art Lynn listen." serve a cupcake to Sister Ann Cizikas (seated.)

"Community Leaders" continued from page 5 all those present. “We thank you for standing with us.

You will always hold a special place in our hearts.” All were then invited by Edith Robles, of SWOP, to exchange a sign of peace.

Father Pizzo offered his own reflections, quoting Pope Francis on how “consecrated life calls us to feeling, thinking and acting in communion with the people of God … [in doing this, they] rely solely on God’s providence …” Addressing the Sisters, he said, “We are called to make a difference, and that’s what you have done. Sisters, you have blessed all of us. Know that we walk with you always.”

Before the closing prayer, Father Pizzo acknowledged that there were many other organizations represented in the chapel, including: Marquette Bank, Beth Shalom Temple, Metro Family Services, and the Maria Kaupas Center; also Hon. Toni Foulkes, Alderman of the 15th Ward of Chicago. Everyone read the blessing together with hands extended toward the Sisters. w w w. ssc 2601. com

S ist er s

of

Lori Pacura, President of Holy Cross Hospital, graciously invited all to the dining room for visiting and refreshments. There, each Sister was presented with a long stemmed rose.

Sister Lucille Ann Bandyk admires one of the roses that was presented to each of the Sisters at the reception.

S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2014

9

At Journey’s End

— Eternal Days Beginning

Sister Ann Therese Radziunas, SSC Formerly Sister M. Olivia October 3, 1924 – May 30, 2014

Sister Ann Therese, nee Anna, was born in Mount Carmel, PA, to Joseph and Pearl Radziunas, the second of three girls and one boy. Her family belonged to Holy Cross Parish, the first mission Mother Maria Kaupas established in October 1907.

Anna attended Holy Cross School, and from about the 5th grade she felt a desire to give her life to God as a Sister. Inspired by the Sisters of St. Casimir who taught her, Anna admired their “dedication, prayerfulness, and love for the students.” At the age of 16, Anna entered the Sisters of St. Casimir in Chicago, IL, as an aspirant, completing her high school education at St. Casimir Academy. Her family supported her religious vocation and felt honored to have “a Sister” in the family.

On August 15, 1944, Anna made her first vows. Five years later, she made her final vows. On the occasion of her Golden Jubilee, she remembered that making her final vows was the most outstanding event of her life. “It was the fulfillment of a long sought after goal and the culmination of long hours of prayer and study.”

Sister Ann Therese received a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Marywood University in Scranton, PA, and a Master’s degree in Education from Villanova University in Villanova, PA. Her ministry began in 1944 with kindergarten in Chicago and then moving in 1953 into the middle grades in Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. In 1977 she became principal of St. Casimir School in Philadelphia, PA. In 1978 Sister Ann Therese was missioned to St. Mary School in Darien, IL, to teach fourth grade.

From 1980 until 1984, she was teacher and principal of St. Joseph School in Scranton, PA. In 1984 she was assigned as principal of St. Joan of Arc School in Aberdeen, MD, where she remained until her retirement in 1996. When Sister Ann Therese left St. Joan of Arc, she received a letter from the Maryland House of Delegates stating, “We all appreciate your thirteen years of outstanding service to St. Joan of Arc School.”

After her retirement from school administration, Sister Ann Therese was Superior of the community at Villa Joseph Marie Convent in Holland, PA. In 2004, because of the effects of a stroke, Sister Ann Therese returned to

10

S ist er s

of

the Motherhouse in Chicago. She fought to regain the use of her limbs but remained confined to a wheelchair. Her gentle, pleasant smile greeted visitors, and whenever those who had been at Villa Joseph Marie returned home and visited her, she asked how everything was going, pleased to hear that the school was doing well and moving forward.

We will remember Sister Ann Therese for her faithfulness in living her religious life, her dedication to Catholic education, and her courage and determination during the latter years of her life as she struggled to regain what she had lost as a result of the stroke. We trust that Sister Ann Therese used all the circumstances of her life to move toward perfect joy in God.

Sister Mary de Sales Sokol, SSC December 6, 1925 – June 4, 2014 Sister de Sales, nee Dolores, the youngest of four children, was born in Chicago, IL, to James and Ann Sokol.

Dolores attended St. Clare of Montefalco School and St. Casimir Academy. Though she had a desire to be a Sister, she went to work as a bookkeeper in a bank for six years. It wasn't until 1950 when she was 24 that she entered the community of the Sisters of St. Casimir.

In 1951, Dolores was received into the novitiate and became Sister Mary de Sales. She made her first vows on August 15, 1953. Soon after, she began her teaching ministry at Our Lady of Vilna School. Sister de Sales also taught at St. Pius X School in Chicago, St. Casimir School in Gary, IN, and Sts. Peter and Paul School in Rockford, IL. In 1964, she was sent to St. Mary School in Plano, IL, as teacher and principal. In 1970 Sister de Sales was elected to serve on the leadership team of the Sisters of St. Casimir, along with being supervisor of housekeeping and the maintenance department at the Motherhouse. Upon completing her leadership term in 1974, Sister de Sales went back to teaching, this time at St. Norbert School in Northbrook, IL. The following year she returned to St. Mary School in Plano as principal, where she remained for ten years, followed by four years as principal at Immaculate Conception School in Chicago.

Throughout this time of ministry in various places, Sister de Sales also received a Master’s degree in School

S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2014

Continued on Page 11 w w w. ssc 2601. com

At Journey’s End

— Eternal Days Beginning

Administration and Supervision. She spent one summer teaching in Head Start, an innovative program at the time. Her accomplishments included working with Sister Francine Verpas, SSC, on a book titled "My Kindergraph, Character Development through Guided Activities for Kindergarten and Primary Children," published by Follett Publishing Co. in 1966. This book was one of the many items on display in the “Women and Spirit” exhibit created by the Leadership Council of Women Religious highlighting the history and contribution of women religious in the United States.

In 1988, Sister de Sales was once again elected to community leadership, as Assistant to the General Superior. After serving a five-year term, she remained as Motherhouse Superior until 2006. A song that was popular in the eighties became Sister de Sales’ refrain whenever she heard someone express discouragement or concern, “Don’t worry. Be happy.”

Sister de Sales was devoted to the SSC St. Elizabeth Food Pantry which she, along with Sisters Immacula Wendt and Edwarda Burdulis, established to serve the people of the Marquette Park neighborhood. The Sisters were inspired by a homily which Rev. Joseph McCormick, OSA, gave at the Motherhouse on the feast of St. Elizabeth

of Hungary, one of the patrons of the SSC community, challenging the Sisters of St. Casimir to model their lives on her generosity to the poor. For 20 years the Pantry shelves were never empty due to the generosity of many people, including Sister de Sales’ nephew John Sokol.

Sister de Sales was steadfast in her support of the Food Pantry and the people who came. She thought of it as “our mission.” Jennie Gorski, Sister de Sales' niece, who visited the Motherhouse as a child, recalls that Sister de Sales "rarely commented about what her life was like, either in terms of her ‘job’ or her daily interactions with her family of Sisters. She did, however, freely discuss the Food Pantry, and her responsibilities, and the way it served the needy."

As Sister Elizabeth Ann Yocius, SSC, remarked during the funeral services, "Sister de Sales seemed to have a special place in her heart for everyone ..."

On the occasion of her Golden Jubilee, Sister de Sales wrote, “The years have been filled with many of God’s graces and gifts. May the light of gratitude that burns within my heart continue lighting upon the many graces and gifts the Lord of Life has given to me through my family, my Sisters in community and the many people whose lives I’ve touched ..." Thank you, Sister de Sales.

SSC Food Pantry Ministry Ends A reflection by Sister Grace Ann Kalafut

On Wednesday, May 28, 2014, the lay volunteers, the SSCs Saint Elizabeth Food Pantry at the are grateful. They are also SSC Motherhouse closed after 23 grateful for the Congreyears of providing food to neigh- gational leadership who bors, especially in the Marquette supported these endeavPark and West Lawn areas of Chi- ors and for the dedicated cago. The Food Pantry also served maintenance staff, who neighbors outside this boundary were always gracious and Sisters Grace Ann Kalafut (left) and Mary de Sales Sokol area as needed. It was a wonderful willing to assist in picking in the food pantry. ministry of love, serving families in up and unloading food need and meeting people who ap- from the Chicago Food Depository and other facilities preciated the service the Sisters and that provided food. The Sisters will miss their guests and volunteers provided their life stories. The month of May was a sad for them. time for some because they have seen these St. Elizabeth For the leadership guests once each month for many years and of Hungary and dedication of Sisnow it was time to say “Good-bye.” So many ter Mary de Sales Soguests were sorry to hear of the closing and kol and Sister Mary Louise Andrulonis, who expressed their gratitude for getting to know gave their time and energy in a spirit of love the Sisters and other volunteers as people who for those who were needy and poor, preparreally cared for them individually and their ing countless bags filled with nutritious food families. The Sisters will continue to keep Sister Mary Louise each week side by side with other Sisters and Andrulonis serves a guest. them all in prayer. w w w. ssc 2601. com

S ist er s

of

S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2014

11

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: Paula Staisiunas Schultz Communications Project Manager pschultz@ssc2601.com Adviser: Sister Margaret Zalot, SSC Contact us: 773-776-1324 www.ssc2601.com

Photos on front cover, clockwise from top: Francis Cardinal George blessing prayer shawls; Sister Maureen Juozapavicius accepts good wishes from parishioners at Nativity BVM; Sister Dolorine Lopez chats with Alderman Toni Foulkes at the community leaders' farewell; SSC employees join in blessing the Sisters who will be moving from the SSC Motherhouse.

A Blessing

God, we thank you for our relationship with the Sisters of St. Casimir.

We ask that you bring them comfort and peace as they begin a life of transition.

Lord, help the Sisters know that your love shines through each and every one of them.

Great Spirit, we honor and praise you for giving us the Sisters.

Sisters, may you move forward with complete courage, trust and surrender knowing that God has great plans in store for you. – Maria Kaupas Center Students Blessing the Sisters during National Catholic Sisters Week 2014

Sisters of St. Casimir

Founders Day

107th Anniversary of the SSC Founding

Saturday, August 30, 2014 9:30 AM Liturgy in the SSC Chapel Most Rev. Andrew P. Wypych, Celebrant

Refreshments and Grand Raffle Drawing following the liturgy For GrandSupport Raffle tickets, callRetirement 773-776-1324.

Proceeds the SSC Fund