Journeys Sisters of St. Casimir
Vol. XXIX No. 2 Summer 2015
Mother Maria's Vision
Alive in the 21st Century
Venerable Maria Kaupas January 6, 1880 — April 17, 1940 Foundress, Sisters of Saint Casimir
Many friends of the Sisters of St. Casimir gathered in the Motherhouse chapel on April 18, 2015, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Mother Maria’s death. In a brief reflection after communion, Mother Maria’s death and the days that followed were described, noting the thousands of people who came to pay their respects and the spontaneous reference to Mother Maria as a holy person. The impact and inspiration of her life began over a hundred years ago when Mother Maria came to the United States in 1897, and it continues to this very day. Casimira Kaupas (later, Mother Maria) had never seen religious Sisters in her lifetime until she traveled from Lithuania to Scranton, Pennsylvania, to be a housekeeper at the age of 17 for her older brother, Anthony, pastor of St. Joseph Parish. While in Scranton, Casimira’s heart was touched by the Sisters she saw and how they lived for God alone while ministering to God’s people. She also saw how the Lithuanian immigrants had a great need for education in their new country. But she was homesick and returned to Lithuania four years after arriving in the United States. At home in Lithuania, Casimira found that life was not the same for her. The pull of her heart to
become a religious Sister and minister to the Lithuanian immigrants she had left in the United States took her on a new path that would change her life forever. Through various twists and obstacles, Casimira persevered, never losing sight of the people she so desperately felt called to serve. Her dream became a reality on August 29, 1907, with the founding of the Sisters of St. Casimir in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Early the following year, with great joy and an unwavering trust in God, Sister Maria (later, Mother Maria) and her Sisters opened their first school: Holy Cross School, in Mt. Carmel, Pennsylvania. Thus began a way of life and a ministry that would touch the lives of thousands of people across the country, as well as those in two other continents. When the United States experienced the influenza epidemic of 1918–1919, Mother Maria encouraged her Sisters to care for the children orphaned by the epidemic and assist with the care of those suffering from influenza. While she was overseeing the expansion of her community, the Bishops of Lithuania asked Mother Maria to establish a Congregation there, which she embarked upon in 1920. The Congregation flourished and schools were opened across Lithuania. The Lithuanian Congregation is independent from the Sisters of St. Casimir of Chicago, but have fostered throughout Lithuania's turbulent history of oppression a close and sisterly bond. As the need for addressing health care became more apparent, Mother Maria prepared her Sisters as nurses and administrators who eventually staffed two hospitals in Chicago, two in Nebraska, and two nursing homes. Before she died, Mother Maria had missioned Sisters to New Mexico as home missionaries and was in the midst
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A Message from the SSC Leadership Dear Friends of the Sisters of St. Casimir, It was one year ago, July 2014, that the first group of our Sisters moved to Franciscan Village in Lemont, IL, about a 45-minute ride from our Motherhouse. As we look back to that day, we remember all the preparation for the move, the move itself, and all the deep emotions that were part of the leave-taking. The Motherhouse was home for all of us for so many years, and that was about to change. The memories of those bygone days will continue to live on in our hearts. We are now being called to a deeper understanding that community is not a place, but a matter of the heart and the effort we make to remain connected and committed to each other. As we look at all that has happened during the course of this year—blessing each group of Sisters as they left the Motherhouse, taking care of all our precious belongings to make room for Catholic Charities to move in, adjusting to life at the Village—we are amazed at all that has taken place and can only be grateful to God! As we now visit with our Sisters at Franciscan Village, Our Lady of Victory Convent, Mother Theresa Home, and Marian Village, we see new life emerging and so many blessings. There is also the story of the inner journey, the part that remains private and in the depths of each Sister’s heart. It is the more difficult part of surrendering to God, of walking into the unknown, trusting that God is there and that all will be well, of living with the mystery of God’s call that has brought us to make changes we never thought we would have to make, and to do all of this with joy and the peace that surpasses understanding. As we come to the one-year anniversary of the beginning of our move to Franciscan Village, we want to thank you for your love and support. Throughout this year, we have received many expressions of this. Many of you have continued to join us for the first Saturday Masses in our Motherhouse chapel, praying for the beatification of Mother Maria. Many of you have con2
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The SSC Council leads a blessing prayer before a group of Sisters leave for Franciscan Village. From left: Sisters Regina Marie Dubickas, General Superior; Margaret Zalot, Councilor/General Secretary; Immacula Wendt, Asst. General Superior/General Treasurer; and Theresa Dabulis, Councilor for On-Going Formation and Spirituality.
tinued to support our community through your kind words and your generous donations, your friendship, and your participation in our community events. Holy Cross Hospital, now part of Sinai Health System, continued its tradition of a Christmas Tea with our Sisters by hosting it at Franciscan Village. Our Associates and SCA-MHS alumnae, have visited with our Sisters at the Village on numerous occasions and keep in touch with our Sisters. And many of you have expressed to us how happy you are that Catholic Charities is in our Motherhouse, that we are able to keep our administrative offices there, and that our chapel remains a sacred space—and that you consider this “a miracle” and an answer to our prayers. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for all of you, near and far, for the enduring relationships we have with you with whom we have collaborated in addressing the issues of our neighborhood and our times, and for the new relationships we are forming as the circle grows ever wider. Though the changes in our life have been significant, our community lives on! We are here! We are faithful to God’s call! The mission begun by Mother Maria endures, and we continue to serve in the ways that we can to witness to God’s love for all people.
You are in our hearts and in our prayers.
S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2015
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Remembering Mother Maria At the Motherhouse Mass in remembrance of the 75th anniversary of Mother Maria’s death took place on April 18 in the Motherhouse chapel. Rev. Monsignor Michael Boland, President and CEO of Catholic Charities of Chicago, was the celebrant. Rev. Jaunius Kelpsas, pastor of Nativity B.V.M. parish, concelebrated, and Deacon Joseph Panek assisted. Music for the liturgy was enhanced by Giedre “Gia” Sokas, cantor, Anna Belle O’Shea, flutist, and Sister Theresa Papsis, organist. In attendance were many alumnae from St. Casimir Academy-Maria High School as part of their reunion event for the day. In the entrance procession, the SSC Council brought yellow roses to be placed near Mother Maria's picture in the sanctuary. Several of Mother Maria's personal items were also brought up by Sister Bernadette
Marie Janus and Sister Rita Marie Kerdock (shown coming away from the altar. A reception in the auditorium followed the Mass.
In Argentina Mother Maria was remembered in Avellaneda, Argentina, on April 17 during the Friday Rosary in the convent chapel. Sister Nilda Varanauskas distributed a card with the picture of Mother Maria and her words: "We need not seek Jesus from afar for he is in our midst, just waiting for us to touch him." How very appropriate for this remembrance which fell within the Easter season. Mass was offered that evening in the parish church praying for Mother Maria's beatification. "Mother Maria" continued from page 1 of plans to send Sisters to missions in Argentina. This became a reality in 1941, one year after her death. The Sisters of St. Casimir continue to minister in the Argentine cities of Cordoba and Buenos Aires. The legacy of Mother Maria – that of a pioneering spirit of steadfast courage, a firm belief in God’s providence, and an openness to minister to the needs of God’s people – continues to this day in those whose lives are touched by the presence, prayer, and ministry of the Sisters and Associates today; in the lives of those who have been touched by the Sisters and their ministries over the w w w. ssc 2601. com
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years in parishes, schools, and health care institutions; and in the new partnerships which have developed with Catholic Charities, Holy Cross Hospital and Sinai Health System, Catalyst-Maria School, the Maria Kaupas Center in Chicago, the Mother Maria Kaupas Center in Mt. Carmel; and all whose lives are touched in positive, lifegiving ways by these connections. Mother Maria’s vision embraces an ever-widening circle of influence that she could never have imagined possible but continues to go on and on, inspired by her words: “Always more, always better, always with love for God and neighbor.”
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Lithuania Remembers Mother Maria
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he Cultural Center of Ramygala, Lithuania, was the site on April 17, for an event on the occasion of Mother Maria’s death anniversary. Ramygala is Mother Maria's birthplace, and this year, marking the 135th year of Mother Maria’s birth, the 75th anniversary of her death, and the year of Consecrated Life, inspired the people of Ramygala and others to organize this special event. The event was attended by the Bishop of Panevezys, Lionginas Virbalas, SJ; the pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish in Ramygala, Father Edmundas Rinkevicius; the pastor of the basilica, Father Gediminas Jankūnas; the Sisters of St. Casimir from Pažaislis in Kaunas, Lithuania, Ramygala high school students prepared a dramatic performance on the life of Mother Maria and her travels between Lithuania and the as well as Sisters from other religious congregations, and United States. Casimira Kaupas (lifting candle up) was played by various civic leaders. The auditorium at the Cultural a distant relative of Mother Maria. Center was filled. The event was hosted by the Director took the initiative to make a differof the Cultural ence. This is the message for us and we Center, Loreta should ask ourselves: What can I do? " Kubiliūnienė. Students from the high school Through SKYPE, in Ramygala, with the help of their the Sisters of St. teachers, prepared a creative dramatCasimir at the ic presentation of the life of Mother Motherhouse Maria using film clips, dances, and in Chicago, IL dialog. Photo and artistic displays on were able to parthe life and works of Mother Maria ticipate in this were prepared by the students and event. The prohung on the walls of the auditorium. gram included a Sister Margaret Zalot, who provided technical support enabling the Sister Lidija Sicaite, SSC, Genpiano concerto, Sisters in Chicago to be virtual participants, enjoys the Lithuanian eral Superior, greeted the assembly and a presentation event. Seated in the " front row" are Sisters Deborah Romanuski, thanked the students for the Margaret Petcavage, and Regina Dubickas. on the life of wonderful presentation, and Mother Maria, she hoped that the students and greetings from Panevezys Bishop Lionginas Virbalas, would search for their own SJ, who noted that he had the opportunity to pray at the vocation much like Mothsarcophagus of Mother Maria in Chicago. He reminder Maria did. Mass in the ed the people that "We can always complain of multiparish church followed the ple deprivation and shrug our arms, but Maria Kaupas event. All was connected Sister Lidija Sicaite, SSC, General Superior of the Lithuanian to the year of Consecrated Sisters of St. Casimir, imparts a Life: an opportunity to look message to the assembly. to the past to give thanks – thanks to Mother Maria for the founding of the Sisters of St. C a si m ir, and to be inspired by her faith and generosity of heart to follow Mass was celebrated in the parish church The Ramygala Cultural Center was packed with dignitaries Christ as following the event. and others who were eager to honor Mother Maria. she did.
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Two Community Centers Embrace Mother Maria's Vision Maria Kaupas Center — Chicago, IL The Maria Kaupas Center (MKC) welcomed visitors to its "Friends and Family Open House" on May 26, where guests were invited to tour the Center, join in the daily reflection, observe classes, and interact with staff and students. Attendees also participated in the blessing of the new MKC garden. The Maria Kaupas Center was established in 2013 with the blessing and support of the Sisters of St. Casimir and the De LaSalle Christian Brothers. Since then, it has put in place a very successful after-school program for the students of Catalyst-Maria, a K-12 charter school in the Chicago public school system. Sister Regina Dubickas and Sister Immacula Wendt observe a drama Though it is open to class during the MKC open house. serve grades 4-12,
the Center’s main focus is on high school students. The MKC addresses the important aspects of a young person's development, including spiritual growth. To that end, in adSister Theresa Dabulis (left) and Sister Margaret Zalot share a story with Amy dition to providing Eckhouse, MKC Program Director. a safe and fun place to "hang out" and a variety of activity-based programming, the center offers students opportunities to learn more about themselves and their relationships with others and with God. The Maria Kaupas Center has been well received as evidenced by the fact that it averages 50 high school aged visitors a day for drop-in hours, with as many as 75 students on any given day. It has also begun expanding its programming to the community at large. The mission continues in a new way!
Mother Maria Kaupas Center — Mount Carmel, PA The Mother Maria Kaupas Center (MMKC), a new community center named after Venerable Maria Kaupas, was dedicated April 12, 2015, in Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania. Sisters Theresa Dabulis, Regina Marie Dubickas, Rita Marie Kerdock, Theresa Papsis, Margaret Petcavage, Deborah Romanuski, Immacula Wendt, and Margaret Zalot were on hand for the blessing and festivities, which spanned over four days. Most Rev. Ronald Gainer, Bishop of the Harrisburg Diocese, and Very Rev. Martin Moran concelebrated the Mass, which was held at Divine Redeemer Parish. Representatives from the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary from both Scranton and from Philadelphia, the Sisters of Saints (From left) Sisters Deborah Romanuski, Cyril and Metho- Rita Marie Kerdock, Theresa Papsis, and Margaret Petcavage offer a prayer dius, and the Felician during the dedication Mass. w w w. ssc 2601. com
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The official ribbon cutting, from left: Herman Weimer, MMKC Advisory Board Chair; Sisters Theresa Dabulis, Margaret Zalot, Immacula Wendt, Regina Dubickas; Bishop Ronald Gainer, and Very Rev. Martin Moran
Sisters joined the Sisters of St. Casimir, parishioners, and friends. Sisters from these five Congregations currently minister in the area or had done so in the past. The Mass was followed by the ribbon-cutting and dedication of the Mother Maria Kaupas Center, which now occupies the former convent of St. Peter Parish. The next day, the first Mass was celebrated in the chapel of the Mother Maria Kaupas Center with the "Mother Maria Kaupas Center" continued on page 6
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Collaboration and Partnership SW Chicago Community Welcomes Catholic Charities
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oly Cross Hospital hosted an interfaith prayer service and welcome reception on May 13 for Catholic Charities. Sisters Regina Dubickas, Immacula Wendt, Margaret Zalot, Theresa Dabulis, Grace Ann Kalafut, Margaret Mary Mazgelis, Margaret Petcavage, Lawrence Puishys, and Nancy Streitmatter joined over 80 community leaders for this event. Lori Pacura, President of Holy Cross Hospital; Rafi Peterson, spokesperson for CeaseFire, IMAN Transition Home; Sr. Regina Dubickas, General Superior of the Sisters of St. Casimir; Rev. Monsignor Michael Boland, Administrator, President and CEO of Catholic Charities of Chicago; Karen Teitelbaum, President and CEO of Sinai Health System; Edith Robles, Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) Leader; and Rev. Tony Pizzo, OSA, Pastor of St. Rita of Cascia Church and Dean, Archdiocese of Chicago Vicariate 2; were among those who spoke of Mission, Community Needs and Collaboration, and Relationship Building. In her address, Sr. Regina expressed how the Sisters of St. Casimir feel blessed that their Motherhouse
is now known as St. Casimir Center, "a new and vibrant site for Catholic Charities and the Sisters of St. Casimir." She shared that throughout the recent transitions of the SSC community, it was always the prayer of the Sisters to somehow continue the legacy of Venerable Maria Kaupas, their foundress, to contribute to the stability, vitality, and improved quality of life of the people in their midst. The Sisters have worked for over 100 years dedicating themselves to the mission of Jesus, "fostering a world that is more peaceful, more just, and more sacred." Sister Regina concluded by saying, "We are grateful to our many committed and generous-hearted community partners who have helped strengthen our legacy and made these transitions possible. We keep you in our prayers, and we share your hopes and dreams for a bright future that we will work for together."
"Mother Maria Kaupas Center" continued from page 5 parishioners. Afterwards, the Sisters of St. Casimir, Sister Fran Fasolka, IHM (MMKC Advisory Board Member), and Father Moran traveled to Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA, to get a better sense of how Bucknell would be involved at the Mother Maria Kaupas Center. Sister Regina and Father Moran met with the President of Bucknell while the others met with key people at the university who would be involved in the field station which is to be established at the Center. Father Moran and supporters of the MMKC see Venerable Mother Maria’s example of ministering to the needs of community residents as an inspiration for others to work toward revitalizing the Mt. Carmel area and surrounding communities. In 6
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addition to the on-site educational experiences provided in collaboration with Bucknell University, the Center will also be a place for parish meetings, retreats, and opportunities for conferences and volunteer services. The mission continues in a new way! Holy Cross School in Mt. Carmel, PA, the first school established by Mother Maria and the Sisters of St. Casimir, opened its doors to students in 1908. Holy Cross parish has now merged with four other parishes to become Divine Redeemer Parish of Mt. Carmel, PA. The Mother Maria Kaupas Center is a ministry within Divine Redeemer Parish.
S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2015
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Recent Celebrations St. Bede the Venerable Parish Commemorates 50 Years The Sisters of St. Casimir were happy to join St. Bede the Venerable Parish of Holland, Pennsylvania, in celebrating its Golden Jubilee in May. They were honored to be part of the special anniversary celebration since they shared a significant part of its history. While the new worship space at St. Bede's was being designed and built, the first Masses of the parish were held in Villa Joseph Marie
Sisters Theresa Dabulis, Regina Dubickas, and Bernadette Marie Janus with Archbishop Charles Chaput, principal celebrant for the 50th Anniversary Mass on May 31st.
High School, which is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Casimir. St. Bede School opened in September 1966, and Mother Adorata, General Superior at that time, missioned Sisters to the school. The Sisters of St. Casimir ministered there as teachers and principals until 2005. There were many expressinos of gratitude to the Sisters for their service. The parishioners of St. Bede's remain in the the hearts and prayers of the Sisters.
SCA-MHS Alumnae Celebrate 2015 Reunion After the Mother Maria Mass on April 18, 170 alumnae of St. Casimir Academy and Maria High School gathered at the Palos Country Club, Orland Park, Sister Margaret Mary Mazgelis (SCA IL, for an all school ’44) visits with Donna Kazlauskas reunion that celebrated Hinojosa (MHS ’65) who was years ending in “0” and celebrating 50 years since graduation. “5.” The event included a delicious luncheon, lively conversation, class photos, raffle prizes, and more. The alumnae were happy to visit
with many Sisters of St. Casimir who attended the event. The Sisters are deeply grateful for these opportunities to continue the relationship with the alums. Sister Theresa Papsis (MHS ’57) was the raffle winner of a doll dressed in the traditional SSC habit. Sister Theresa was a faculty member of the Maria High School Music Department from 1977 to 1997.
Villa Joseph Marie Commencement The Villa Joseph Marie High School graduation took place on May 30, 2015, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown, PA. Held in the beautiful stained-glass national shrine, the graduation proceedings began with a baccalaureate liturgy. The commencement also included recognition of students who were presented awards for their achievements in academics, art, drama, good citizenship, and demonstrating Catholic values. Sister Regina Dubickas and Sister Theresa Dabulis participated in the graduation. Sister Regina was the guest speaker, congratulating the 86 graduates, all of whom are going on to higher education. Student speakers were Salutatorian Caroline Boschetto '15 and Valedictorian Danielle Rigau '15. w w w. ssc 2601. com
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Sister Regina Dubickas (left) and Sister Theresa Dabulis participate in the VJM graduation ceremony, where Sister Regina was the guest speaker.
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Discovering Saintly Connections
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t was 1912, and congregation of the Sisters of St. Casimir was merely five years old, when Miss Sisters. Theodora’s friendship with Mother Maria grew, Theodora Andruskevicius purchased a lovely statue and she advised Mother to invite women to form an auxof Our Lady (blue and white with a wreath of small pink iliary to assist the young Congregation. Throughout the years and even to this day, the roses on her head) as a gift for SSC Auxiliary grew and was Mother Maria. She requested of invaluable assistance. The that it be placed in the Sisters’ Sisters remain indebted to the chapel in St. Bartholomew goodness and wisdom of Miss Convent in Waukegan, IL, Theodora Andruskevicius. where Mother Maria was Throughout the past the Principal of the school. months, our Sisters have been In that same year or gradually taking up residence thereabout, Mother Mary Thein Franciscan Village in Lemresa Dudzik, OSF, foundress of ont, IL — a facility sponsored the Franciscan Sisters of Chiby the Franciscan Sisters of cago, was the Superior at St. Venerable Mother Maria Venerable Mother Mary Chicago, the same CongreStanislaus Parish on the north Kaupas, foundress of the Theresa Dudzik, foundress gation founded by Venerside of Chicago where Theodo- Sisters of St. Casimir of the Franciscan Sisters of able Mother Mary Theresa ra lived. Theodora learned the Chicago Dudzik, OSF. As the special art of sewing Church vestments and church linens from these Franciscan Sisters. It was May devotions to the Blessed Mother began, the Sisters Mother Mary Theresa Dudzik who encouraged Theodora brought pictures of Our Lady to their prayer room. Sisto offer her services to Mother Maria and her St. Casimir ter Margaret Petcavage, upon seeing the pictures, rememcommunity as she must have recognized Theodora’s gift- bered there was a beautiful statue of Our Lady standing edness and also the needs of this very young congrega- for many years on the files in the Motherhouse archives room. Never realizing its history, she picked up the statue tion. Venerable Mother Mary Theresa Dudzik had to bring for the Sisters’ devotions at Franciscan Village. founded her Sisters in 1894 to be of service to the poor Under the statue was a paper typed in 1984, explaining its history. Sister Conrad Juskaitis, and needy among the Polish immiwho had been a Principal in Waukegrants. She knew and experienced the gan, had written out the story of the struggles of a new congregation servstatue and its connection with Theoing an immigrant population, and it is dora, Mother Maria, and Mother Mary quite obvious her compassionate heart Theresa and her Franciscan Sisters. One reached out to Mother Maria, who was hundred and five years later the statue tending to the needy among the Lithuof Our Lady is once more honored in a anian immigrants arriving daily to Chiplace where the Sisters pray daily, now cago. Little did these two brave women in the facility founded by Mother Therealize that their selfless, holy lives would resa Dudzik’s Sisters. To discover that contribute to a century of goodness in these two holy Foundresses, now both the fields of education, health care, and proclaimed “Venerable” by the Church, other spiritual and corporal works of knew each other is incredible. To dismercy by hundreds of their Sisters. cover more than 100 years later that the Theodora, faithful to Mother Sisters of St. Casimir and the Franciscan Theresa’s urging, would come from the Sisters’ early lives are so entwined, and north side of Chicago to the SSC Mothcontinue to this day, is simply a blesserhouse on the south side and taught ing. Everyone upon hearing this story Sister Bronislaus, SSC, and her staff is amazed and touched by the power of This statue of Mary was a gift from the art of sewing church vestments and Theodora Andruskevicius to Mother goodness and the realization that nothchurch linens. From that time on, unMaria Kaupas, over 100 years ago. believably beautiful church vestments Theodora befriended the Sisters of St. ing is by chance – all is part of God’s plan in our lives. Casimir at the urging of Mother came from the hands of these dedicated Mary Theresa Dudzik, OSF.
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Franciscan Village, Lemont, IL Sister Juline Revas, Star of the Month
SSCs On The Move
Sister Juline Revas was celebrated as "Star of the Month" at Our Lady of Victory Convent of Franciscan Village. Their March newsletter highlighted these interesting facts from Sister Juline's background. Born in Lithuania, at the age of five Sister Juline moved to Germany where she lived until she Sister Juline Revas was 11 years old. Sister and her family then immigrated to the United States via Ellis Island and moved to Chicago, Illinois. She is one of four siblings. Feeling called to serve God’s people, Sister Juline entered the Sisters of St. Casimir in 1958. She finished her Master’s Degree in Education, then a few years later went on to study at St. Louis University where she received her Master’s Degree in Nursing. One of her greatest accomplishments was working at Holy Cross Hospital in Chicago for 35 years, where she was the Director of Nursing for many of those years. She also taught the primary grades for 12 years. When asked who she admires most, Sister said, “The Pope. He has a simplicity about him that I like, even though he is high up in the ranks.” During her free time, Sister Juline enjoys reading and walking. One thing about her that she would like everyone to know . . . Sister Juline is a Cubs fan!
It has been one year since the first group of Sisters made the historic move from the SSC Motherhouse in Chicago to live in Franciscan Village, located in Lemont, IL. In many ways, the words of Mother Maria written over 100 years ago, recalling the founding of the Sisters of St. Casimir came true again for her Congregation: "Although they were beginning to tread an unknown road on which, as all predict, they would encounter many crosses, they were not afraid. Having committed themselves to the protection of God's Providence, they felt they were his beloved ... [and] looked joyously to the future ..." Once more her Sisters faced major changes and challenges in their lives and that of the SSC community. Drawing on the strength of Mother Maria and the SSCs who came before them, the Sisters of St. Casimir accepted this transition with a deep faith and trust in God. They have also experienced the great love and support of family and friends. Since July 2014 small groups of Sisters have moved into their new apartments, always enjoying a warm send off and blessing from remaining Sister Lawrence Puishys (left) and Sister June Motherhouse Puishys take a break during the busy moving day residents and activities of May 21, 2015. employees.
SSC Associates Visit Franciscan Village In March, a group of ten SSC Associates gathered at Franciscan Village for Stations of the Cross. A number of Sister residents joined them for the Stations and the lunch that followed. This was one of many opportunities for Associates to connect with their "adopted" Sisters. Sister Marilyn Karpovich, Associate Director, coordinates the many Associate gatherings now held at Franciscan Village. w w w. ssc 2601. com
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SSC Associate Anna Zurlo visits with her "adopted Sister," at Franciscan Village, Sister Philip Ramoska.
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At Journey’s End
— Eternal Days Beginning
Sister Frances Debulski, SSC Formerly Sister M. Coronata October 23, 1916 – April 1, 2015 Sister Frances (M. Coronata) was born in Chicago, IL, to Frank and Frances Debulski. Sister Frances spoke of her family as a "Franciscan family" since both her parents, her older brother, and she had names in honor of St. Francis. Her brothers, Francis and Joseph, preceded her in death. When Frances expressed a desire to enter religious life, her mother tried to steer her toward the Franciscans, but Frances felt very strongly the call to the Sisters of St. Casimir. Little did she know that the last year of her life would be spent in Franciscan Village. Frances grew up in a tightly knit Lithuanian community consisting of immigrant families. As she began elementary school, her family moved to the Roseland area of Chicago where she attended All Saints School with the Sisters of St. Casimir as her teachers. It was here that the seeds of her vocation were planted. When she was ready for high school during the Great Depression, her parents sacrificed to send her to St. Casimir Academy. It was at the Academy that Frances, at the age of 16, asked to enter the Sisters of St. Casimir. She was accepted during her senior year in 1934. Sister Frances made her first vows in 1937, and her final vows on August 15, 1943. She celebrated her Silver Jubilee in 1961, her Golden Jubilee in 1986, and her 75th Diamond Jubilee in 2011. Sister Frances earned a B.S. in Education from Marywood College in Scranton, PA, and an M.A. in Library Science from Rosary College in River Forest, IL. Before beginning her ministry of education, Sister Frances served in the dietary departments at Loretto and Holy Cross Hospitals, the Motherhouse, and in various local convents. In 1947, she began teaching grades two through eight in elementary schools staffed by the Sisters of St. Casimir: Providence of God, Holy Cross, Nativity BVM, Our Lady of Vilna, and St. Joseph in Chicago, St. Anthony in Cicero, St. Norbert in Northbrook, and St. Casimir in Chicago Heights, IL; St. Anthony in Omaha, NE; and St. Peter in Roswell, NM. Special years were spent at Maria High School where Sister Frances served as librarian from 1980 to 2004. At the time of her Jubilee, she wrote, “My years as a religious 10
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were full of excitement and great blessings. I feel that I was given a hundredfold from the Lord. The secret is: Don’t let go of his hand and he will never let you down! It's amazing wht he can do with you.” Sister Frances retired from full time ministry in 2004. She moved from the Maria High School convent to the Motherhouse in 2008. Even at the Motherhouse, she remained the librarian, loading a cart with books and taking them to suggest reading material for the Sisters in the infirmary. She was asked to move once again to Franciscan Village in Lemont, IL. She accepted this with peace, just as she accepted so many other things that were happening to her. For many years, Sister Frances had been losing the ability to hear and to see. For someone who loved to read and crochet intricate patterns of gorgeous afghans this was a huge loss, but she was able to find something for which to be grateful. She said, “God has taken a lot from me—my sight, my hearing—but he hasn’t taken everything. I can still taste.” In reflecting on these losses, Sister Frances said, “I am giving myself to God, little by little.” A week before she died, some of the Sisters came to visit her. They told her it was the feast of the Annunciation and asked her if she wanted them to say a prayer to Mary for her. Sister Frances began to sing a hymn to Mary in Lithuanian. With deep emotion, knowing that heaven was near, the Sisters joined her in singing, asking Mary to remember them all to God. Sister Frances donated her body for medical study so that even in death she might help the living. The Sisters are grateful for her life and the ways in which she was able to touch the lives of others through the talents and gifts that God had bestowed on her. May Sister Frances now be welcomed into her heavenly home where there will be no more pain, no more loss, but only the fullness of joy in God’s presence forever.
One thing I ask —
to dwell in the house
of the Lord
all my days.
S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2015
– Psalm 27
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At Journey’s End
— Eternal Days Beginning
Sister M. Paulissa Puisis, SSC December 24, 1915 – April 29, 2015 Sister Paulissa was born to Mary and John Puisis in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood. She was the oldest of six siblings, all of whom, except for her sister, Therese, have preceded her in death. She became familiar with the Sisters of St. Casimir early in life since three relatives were members of the community: Sisters Benedict, Dominic, and Marcijona. She attended St. George School in Bridgeport and then went on to St. Casimir Academy. Sister Paulissa entered the Sisters of St. Casimir in 1932 with the privilege of being received by Venerable Mother Maria Kaupas, SSC foundress. She professed her first vows in 1934 and her final vows in 1940; Sr. Paulissa celebrated her Silver Jubilee in 1959, her Golden Jubilee in 1984, and her Diamond Jubilee (75 years) in 2009. Last year she celebrated a special milestone of 80 years as a Sister of St. Casimir. Music was part of Sister Paulissa’s life since 3rd grade. She studied the cello at the Academy and later went on to learn the violin and other orchestra instruments at the American Conservatory of Music and De Paul University. She taught music and directed the school orchestra at Immaculate Conception (Brighton Park), Nativity BVM, St. Casimir Academy, and Maria High School in Chicago, and Villa Joseph Marie High School in Holland, PA. Sister Paulissa also ministered as a teacher in Illinois, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Minnesota where she taught primarily grades 3 through 6, always including music as part of the curriculum. When fewer schools had orchestras, Sister Paulissa asked to fulfill one of her life dreams, that of being a nurse. In the late ’60s, she began her studies for LPN training. After beginning her work caring for patients, Sister Paulissa felt she could be more effective by getting additional training, and she completed a two-year RN associate degree program. She served in many capacities at Loretto Hospital. Sister saw needs and found ways to respond to them. She was moved by patients’ spiritual and psychological needs and asked if she could help develop a pastoral care program. Sister Paulissa enrolled in training at Mercy Hospital for this special ministry. During her training, she w w w. ssc 2601. com
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had the opportunity to visit patients who were preparing for surgery, and because of her nursing background, she could understand and respond to the emotional impact of surgery. Her supervisor remarked, “Her manner is quiet, yet her influence can be very dynamic.” In 1980, Sister Paulissa received the Hospital Humanitarian Award from the Chicago Hospital Council, an award given in recognition of “walking the extra mile.” The citation read: “Her attitude towards her job is one of such total dedication that, long after the patients have returned home, unsolicited letters continue to arrive commending her for her patience, tact, understanding, love and compassion. . .” When Sister Paulissa came to live in the Motherhouse, she continued to find opportunities to be of service. In her eighties, she started a music program to teach keyboard to children at St. Paul/Our Lady of Vilna School and those who would come to the Motherhouse for private lessons. Sister Paulissa also volunteered at a free clinic for the poor with Sister Nancy Streitmatter, SSC, MD. She took part in many meetings, interfaith prayer services, and prayer actions of the Southwest Organizing Project and was deeply concerned about issues that affected the lives of the people in the neighborhood. She visited with Sisters in the infirmary and was very sympathetic to their needs. She enjoyed having the children from the nearby pre-school or primary grades come to visit at the Motherhouse and made it a point to commend them for what they did. Reflecting on her life, Sister Paulissa said, “I have had three different careers—about 20 years in education, about 20 years in health care, and about 20 years in music… I hope I have touched someone’s life in at least one of my careers.” Sister Paulissa had a large extended family, and there were many celebrations in which she loved to participate. She had the joy of attending the ordinations and first Masses of her two brother priests, Rev. John Puisis, CSV, and Rev. Leonard Puisis. Sister Paulissa accepted the move to Franciscan Village and the life that she would embrace there. The stroke that she suffered changed things dramatically for her and eventually led to her death. She did everything she could to regain what she had lost. Her sister, Therese, was her great support as she kept vigil with her and made sure that SisterPaulissa had the beautiful music that she loved accompany her during the last days of her life. The Sisters cannot help but think that Mother Maria was there with open arms to once again welcome her spiritual daughter when Sister Paulissa said goodbye to this earthly life.
S t. C a si mir "Journeys" — S u m m er 2015
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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
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Dates to Remember August 1, 2015
Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m.
August 15, 2015
Solemnity of the Assumption Jubilee Celebration for Sisters Celebrating 60th Anniversary
August 29, 2015
Founders’ Day Mass, 9:30 a.m. Celebration following the Mass
No Mother M aria M ass in September
October 3, 2015
Sisters of St. Casimir
Founders Day
108th Anniversary of the SSC Founding
Saturday, August 29, 2015 9:30 AM Liturgy – Motherhouse Chapel Very Rev. Bernard Scianna, OSA, Celebrant Refreshments and Grand Raffle Drawing following the liturgy
Mother Maria Mass, 9:30 a.m.
October 4, 2015
95th SSC Auxiliary Banquet Mama Luigi's Restaurant 7500 S. Harlem, Bridgeview, IL
November 7, 2015
Mother Maria/All Souls' Mass, 9:30 a.m. Reading of names begins at 8:45 a.m.
For Grand Raffle tickets: call (773) 776-1324 Proceeds Support the Sisters of St. Casimir Retirement Fund