Life Cycles 2015 by Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati

Life Cycles 2015

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Life is a journey

to goodness. We are not here simply to wait for heaven. We are here to bring it.â&#x20AC;? S. Joan Chittister, OSB

Dear Sisters and Associates, ope Francis, in announcing the Year of Mercy, wrote, “How much I desire that the year to come will be steeped in mercy, so that we can go out to every man and woman, bringing the goodness and tenderness of God! May the balm of mercy reach everyone, both believers and those far away, as a sign that the Kingdom of God is already present in our midst!” (Par.5) Francis challenged us to bring God’s goodness and tenderness to the world in concrete ways. Specifically, he invited us to perform the corporal and spiritual works of mercy: feed the hungry give drink to the thirsty clothe the naked welcome the stranger heal the sick visit the imprisoned bury the dead counsel the doubtful instruct the ignorant admonish sinners comfort the afflicted forgive offenses bear patiently those who do us ill pray for the living and the dead. Francis’ words are with me as I remember our Sisters and Associates who went to meet God during 2015. Each of them, by living the works of mercy, brought the goodness and tenderness of God to the people they touched. Among them, we can find models for ourselves as we proclaim God’s mercy in our own lives. Your Sister,

S. Joan Elizabeth Cook President

Table of Content s S. Teresa Atencio ............................................................................................ Page 4 Associate Mary Bradley................................................................................... Page 5 S. Marianella Domenici .................................................................................. Page 6 S. John Catherine Gumbert............................................................................. Page 7 S. Pierre Habel................................................................................................ Page 8 S. Marian Hart................................................................................................ Page 9 Associate Kenneth Horney............................................................................ Page 10 S. Irene Hrosky............................................................................................. Page 11 S. Dolores Johnson........................................................................................ Page 12 S. Celestia Koebel.......................................................................................... Page 13 S. Rosemary Robers....................................................................................... Page 14 S. Zoe St. James ............................................................................................ Page 15 S. Joan Carole Schaffner................................................................................ Page 16 S. Therese Sliva.............................................................................................. Page 17 Associate Mary Rita Vonderhaar.................................................................... Page 18 Associate Claire Wirt..................................................................................... Page 19

Teresa Atencio (formerly S. Marie Dolores) graduated from St. Mary High School, Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1952; she was taught by the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati and chose to enter the Community the fall of that same year. S. Teresa remarked on the occasion of her Jubilee, “I was impressed and affected by the kindness and cheerfulness of the Sisters who taught me; I made a spontaneous decision to explore this lifestyle. It has been a life rich in experiences.”

“S. Teresa Atencio was a woman who truly knew how to serve without calling attention to herself.” S. Betty Finn

S. Jean Miller remembers those early years with S. Teresa: “When we were novices we were sent to the attic to practice walking, me for walking like a football player and Teresa for her very beautiful walk in high-heeled shoes. We had a great time with books falling off our heads and joking and laughing. Once we were finished we left the books behind and walked out in our usual swagger.” Sister taught in schools in Colorado, Ohio, Maryland and New Mexico throughout her more than 25 years in Catholic education and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from the College of Mount St. Joseph in 1969. In 1979 S. Teresa moved to the Oakland, California Diocese and connected with Catholic Charities, where she found her gifts working with adults who were developmentally disabled. S. Teresa gave 11 years to this rewarding ministry. In 1990 S. Teresa returned to her beloved Albuquerque to assist with the care of family members, but remained active, volunteering in health care settings providing wellness clinic opportunities for lowincome seniors. She worked in Mexico collecting data on babies who died of hunger and dehydration and volunteered in a dental clinic for the homeless. To each setting S. Teresa brought her desire for justice and non-discrimination. S. Barbara Muth remembers her friendship with S. Teresa: “I have the happy remembrance of our recent phone conversation when I called her to tell her of my move to Assisted Living. S. Teresa was pleased for me, but we both knew that her moving East was not in her near future. We never considered her future would be into eternal life. We will continue our friendship as always. May Teresa rest in the peace of our God.” A Sister of Charity for 63 years, S. Teresa died Dec. 13, 2015, at the age of 82 in Albuquerque.

ssociate Mary Bradley was the loving daughter of Thomas and Ethel Bradley. Born on July 19, 1932, in Cincinnati, Ohio, she had one sister, Ann. Mary’s parents died when she was young, and she was raised by her grandparents and aunts. Mary’s life was dedicated to education. In 1962 Mary began her work at the College of Mount St. Joseph and received her faculty rank of assistant professor in 1965. She retired at the end of the 1997 academic year, having dutifully served the college for 35 years. During that time she worked with S. Helen Miriam Gunn in the Reading Laboratory Center, located within the Department of Education. This center offered reading tutorial services for children, and in addition offered these services to the underprivileged community as well. She was a valued member of the Mount community. S. Mary Bookser remembered, “[S. Helen Miriam] and Mary spent many hours working with students through the Mount’s Reading Center. Their caring kindness made this a safe place for students who needed extra help. There are many MSJ alums today who surely sing out their thanksgiving for the quiet, unassuming, yet powerful work of these two women.” Mary was a gentle and kind woman and very proud of her Irish heritage. Her ingrained spirit of charity encouraged her to open her home to S. Helen Miriam where they lived together for many years. They attended daily Mass and prayed evening prayer as well. Together they volunteered, helped neighbors in a variety of ways, and visited at a nearby nursing home. Mary made her commitment as an Associate in Mission with the Community on May 23, 1999. S. Joan Groff remembers Mary’s kindness and welcoming spirit: “Mary Bradley and S. Helen Miriam were such gracious hosts for our Eastside group that went for several years in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Many new Associates were part of that group before formalized instructions were initiated. We kind of proceeded as best we could and had a prayerful and good time in the process. Thank you, Mary and Helen.”

“...Mary Bradley spent many hours working with students through the College of Mount St. Joseph’s Reading Center. [Her] caring kindness made this a safe place for students who needed extra help.” S. Mary Bookser

Mary also participated in the Wisdom Circles and once commented, “The biggest lesson brought home to me was the need to be vigilant about making up my own mind about people when I didn’t know them very well. I grew to know individuals in a new light and appreciate them in a new way.”

Mary Bradley died on Feb. 10, 2015. 5

Marianella Domenici, a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 67 years, was a product of Sisters of Charity education; she attended St. Vincent Academy (Albuquerque, New Mexico) from kindergarten on, graduating from the school in 1947. She chose to enter the Sisters of Charity Community the fall of that same year. Sister recalled being asked, as a high school student, if she would like to help take care of children, “I am certain that it was that type of experience that was the starting point of my conviction that education of children was my calling. I loved being able to help!”

“All the years I knew S. Marianella Domenici, she was always upbeat, and she spread joy effortlessly as part of her nature.” S. Victoria Marie Forde

S. Marianella earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from the College of Mount St. Joseph in 1958 and a master’s in administration from Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska, in 1969. Sister taught in schools in Colorado, Ohio and New Mexico throughout her 63 years in Catholic education. In 1968, she became principal of Pauline Memorial, Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she remained for 21 years. S. Marianella transferred to St. Mary, Albuquerque, in 1989. She returned to her home parish where she was baptized, remaining there until 2012 when she retired from education. While there it was important for her to create a spirit of ‘St. Mary’s School Family,’ which she continued for those 23 years she ministered to the families of the parish. S. Victoria Marie Forde, a lifelong friend, recalls, “From the time I met S. Marianella at St. Vincent Academy, she and her sisters were treasured friends of mine. From her generous, loving family Marianella learned to be kind and compassionate, qualities that shone in her throughout her life. We entered the Sisters of Charity the same year, and it was a blessing to have her with me in our group. All the years I knew her, she was always upbeat, and she spread joy effortlessly as part of her nature. She was outstanding as a principal. Beyond all that, I will deeply miss my dear friend of so many years.” S. Rose Therese Wich served as the principal at Annunciation School in Albuquerque at the same time S. Marianella was at St. Mary’s. “We would talk over our common concerns, but we were always appreciative of our students and their parents as well as our teachers,” she said.

S. Marianella died Feb. 5, 2015, at the age of 84 in Albuquerque.

John Catherine Gumbert was educated by the Sisters of Charity in Cincinnati, attending St. Rose School in the East End and St. Mary High School in Hyde Park. It was while at Forty Hour Devotions in St. Rose Church that she prayed to know her vocation and asked God for the grace to do it. Five months later she entered the Sisters of Charity. In a jubilee reflection Sister said: “I never for one instant doubted my vocation. Molding hearts and souls, of children as well as parents, in the ways of God has been a most fulfilling and rewarding experience.” She was a Sister of Charity for 68 years. S. John Catherine earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from the College of Mount St. Joseph in 1960 and a master’s in administration from St. Mary University, Leavenworth, Kansas, in 1970. Sister taught in schools in Colorado, Ohio and Michigan throughout her 48 years in Catholic education. While in administration Sister saw the importance of being involved with other inner city teachers and administrators, and chose to serve as a leader in the Cincinnati Archdiocesan Urban School League. She received a special award of appreciation for her years of service to the urban schools. Sister herself was ever grateful for that in her own education growing up. When S. John Catherine retired from formal education in 1996 she spent her time helping those who were lonely; she visited the sick and elderly at the Summit and Hilltop nursing facilities in Cincinnati and took hospice training. “It is really inspiring to bring the Eucharist to them, but I feel that they bring the Lord to me, also,” Sister said.

“S. John Catherine Gumbert was a ‘real lady’ and loved children. … You often saw her with the children flocking around her.” S. Diana Durling

S. Diana Durling remembers how S. John Catherine loved the outdoors. “I smile as I think about her floating around on a raft in our Motherhouse swimming pool enjoying the sun. When we were teaching together at St. Dominic School she came to the end-of-theyear picnic with a big brimmed hat with a nice pink bow on it. The children were all surprised seeing Sister wearing a hat as she always wore her veil when at school. You often saw her with the children flocking around her,” S. Diana recalled. S. John Catherine died March 17, 2015, at the age of 89 in Mother Margaret Hall. 7

Pierre Habel was taught by the Sisters of St. Joseph, attending St. Margaret Mary School and St. Bernard High School in Detroit, Michigan. For as long as she could remember S. Pierre wanted to be a nurse. After graduating she worked as a nurse aide and was accepted into St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing in Mount Clemens, Michigan. She was a member of the first class of nurse cadets in Detroit to graduate under the U.S. Nurses Cadets Corps program, a special program initiated during World War II.

“S. Pierre Habel embodied the loving spirit of the Sisters of Charity and inspired me to want to be in the Community as well.” S. Mary Kay Bush

S. Pierre’s classmates included two young Sisters of Charity. During an interview for her Golden Jubilee, S. Pierre commented: “They studied and worked hard just like us and were very approachable. As graduation neared, and with my degree in hand, I found myself planning to enter the Sisters of Charity community. God has strange ways, but they turn out fine.” S. Pierre was a Sister of Charity for 69 years. For 26 of her 38 years in the health care ministry S. Pierre was at home at St. Joseph Hospital, Mount Clemens, Michigan. For most of her 26 years Sister did general patient nursing, but also helped out as an EKG technician for nine years and served as the patient information receptionist for two years. One of her hospital patients is known to have remarked: “You have the gentlest hands I’ve ever known which, I believe, make you a very good nurse.” In 1992 S. Pierre left her beloved Michigan and moved to the Mount St. Joseph Motherhouse where she served as a volunteer in the Motherhouse Resource Center and had additional time to pray and read; she especially enjoyed adventure stories and National Geographic. S. Mary Kay Bush remembers how S. Pierre was so supportive of Associates and very gentle and kind to new Sisters in the Community. “Often I would be with her when we would have Sisters of Charity gatherings in the Greater Detroit area. She embodied the loving spirit of the Sisters of Charity and inspired me to want to be in the Community as well.” S. Pierre died July 17, 2015, at the age of 94 in Mother Margaret Hall.

Marian Hart (formerly S. Ann Fidelis) met the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati while attending the School of Nursing at St. Joseph in Mount Clemens, Michigan. In her second year she took instructions in the Catholic faith and became a Catholic. S. Marian entered the Sisters of Charity in February 1950. She was a Sister of Charity for 65 years. S. Marian earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from the College of Mount St. Joseph and a master’s in nursing from The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. in 1964. Sister went on to earn a doctorate in education from Wayne State University (Detroit, Michigan) in 1996. S. Marian began her bedside nursing as a Sister of Charity in 1951. She came to the College of Mount St. Joseph from 1964-’73 to teach medical-surgical nursing. For the next 20 years S. Marian’s ministry took her to Michigan; she served at St. Joseph Hospital, Mount Clemens, for 10 years and then on to the University of Detroit where she was an associate professor of nursing in the School of Nursing. Moving to Cincinnati in 1995, S. Marian discovered that parish nursing was a return to the reason she wanted to be a nurse. In her autobiography S. Marian stated, “I feel privileged to share my understanding with the people of the parish that I visit, healing bodies in a spiritual setting.” Sister served at St. Martin of Tours parish, Cheviot, Ohio, from 1996 until her retirement in 2008.

“S. Marian Hart was a wonderful nurse, good friend, and a quiet, reflective person.” S. Patricia Sabourin

S. Rita Hawk recalls being very sick as a young Sister in Good Samaritan Hospital. “Being very scared and homesick, S. Marian came into my room, hugged me and assured me my illness could be taken care of without surgery. It was her hug that meant the most … and still does.” S. Pat Sabourin considered S. Marian her Angel of Mercy. They lived and worked together at St. Joseph in Mount Clemens. “We shared a love of reading, both spiritual and secular. While in Malawi I would get surprise packages from Marian. I never knew what would come. Marian was a wonderful nurse, good friend, and a quiet, reflective person. May she now enjoy her just reward of a faithful, compassionate servant of God’s people.” S. Marian died Sept. 22, 2015, at the age of 87 at Good Samaritan Hospital. 9

ssociate Kenneth Horney, Esq., was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and attended Withrow and Purcell high schools, graduating from Purcell in 1950. After high school he enlisted in the U.S. Army under the G.I. Bill and went on active duty only a few days after the end of the Korean War. Ken attended Xavier University in Cincinnati and played freshman basketball. He earned his law degree at the University of Cincinnati, and worked as an Administrative Law Judge for the State of Ohio until his retirement. Ken made his commitment as an Associate in Mission on June 8, 2003. He had many connections with the Sisters of Charity. His second wife, Ruth, was a former Sister of Charity and also an Associate. He was an active volunteer at Working in Neighborhoods, and he and Ruth lived in Bayley Village, a living community located on the Bayley campus.

“Ken Horney was always friendly, and involved in parish activities. … I never saw him without a smile.” S. Dorothy William Englert

“Living in the Village I’ve been able to witness the Sisters living their call of humility, simplicity and charity. I am so inspired by that,” Ken once commented. After a trip to Emmitsburg, Maryland, Ken started reading the histories of S. Blandina Segale, St. Elizabeth Seton and Mother Margaret George. “I was so inspired by these gutsy women that I decided to form a more defined relationship with the Community,” he once said. Ken also volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and Doctors Without Borders. He was a member and strong supporter of Alcoholics Anonymous and had been in recovery for the past 28 years. He was an avid genealogist who authored a 200-page book on his family history, enjoyed traveling, sports, Shakespeare, telling jokes, and spending time with his family. “Ken was a ‘scooper’ at our annual Ice Cream Social at Mother Margaret Hall. He was always making jokes and teasing the Sisters. I enjoyed visiting him after Ruth died and hearing his many stories,” said Associate Mary Jo Mersmann. S. Dorothy William Englert appreciated Ken and all that he did. “I remember Ken from his early years at St. Mary Parish. He was always friendly, and involved in parish activities. He was so dedicated to caring for Ruth in her diminishment, a real ‘caregiver.’ I never saw him without a smile, even when I visited him at Bayley when he was in much pain. He will be missed.”

Ken Horney died Feb. 27, 2015, at the age of 82.

Irene Hrosky (formerly S. Mary Jovita) attended Saints Cyril and Methodius School and graduated from Barberton High School in northern Ohio. One year after graduating she and her close friend, Dorothy Macey, entered the Vincentian Sisters of Charity who taught at the parish school. Following the merger of the two congregations in 2004, S. Irene welcomed the opportunity “to grow together in the experience of community as servants of the poor and servants of charity.” S. Irene earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education in 1955 from St. John Teacher’s College, Cleveland, Ohio. She received a Master’s of Education degree from the University of Akron in 1972. For more than 45 years Sister ministered in elementary schools in the Cleveland Diocese. S. Irene served as principal at St. Mary, Bedford, in 1969 and then on to Sts. Cyril and Methodius, in the same capacity, until 1973. From 1973 to 1978 S. Irene taught junior high students at Holy Family, Parma; in 1982 she served as an office aide at Lumen Cordium High School, Bedford, until 1985 when she transitioned to librarian at St. Rita, Solon. She continued as librarian and computer aide at Sacred Heart, Wadsworth, through 1994. The remaining years when she lived at Villa San Bernardo, Bedford, S. Irene assisted in the ministry of the Shrine of Our Lady of Levocha, a service in which she took great pride, as the daughter of Czechoslovakian immigrants. Great crowds would come to honor Our Lady and celebrate with family picnics and prayer on the Villa San Bernardo grounds. S. Irene welcomed those times as an opportunity to build relationships and to honor Mary. For her retirement years S. Irene enjoyed reading and engaging in stimulating conversations; she brought current world happenings to her prayer. She had a real gift for languages, one she inherited from her mother who spoke four languages. S. Irene appreciated good art and loved watching God’s creation, especially the birds. When moving to the Mount St. Joseph Motherhouse in 2010, she and her friend of 65 years, S. Dorothy, became well-known storytellers. They enjoyed a good time and participated in a variety of activities until their health limited their choices.

“S. Irene Hrosky and I became good friends after the merger, visiting frequently. She was caring, gifted and remained young-at-heart in the aging process. She loved life and a good story, appreciating a full day’s work and God’s goodness to her.” S. Georgia Kitt

S. Irene died Dec. 6, 2015, at the age of 89 in Mother Margaret Hall. She was a Sister of Charity for 70 years. 11

Dolores Johnson (formerly S. Marie Philip) was educated by the Sisters of the Sacred Heart in Omaha, Nebraska. As a seventh grader she remembers reading a series on the founders of women’s religious communities in a local publication. In her autobiography she remarked that the only name she remembered was Elizabeth Ann Seton. “The article mentioned Cincinnati, Ohio, so seven years later I wrote asking to enter,” she said. She was a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 66 years, entering in 1949.

“S. Dolores Johnson’s loving care was an art and I am most grateful for her careful stewardship of our beautiful chapel. Thank you, Dolores, for all you did for all of us.” S. Monica Gundler

S. Dolores earned a Bachelor of Science degree in music from the College of Mount St. Joseph in Cincinnati in 1961 and a master’s degree in musicology from The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. in 1972. Sister taught music in schools in Colorado, Ohio, Illinois and New Mexico, at the elementary, secondary and college level for 26 years. She began her teaching in 1950 at Seton High School, Cincinnati. “I love to remember Dolores telling me that what she wanted most for her music students was that they would love music,” said S. Joan Cook. “That wise insight was an invitation to me, to focus on wanting my students to love French.” From 1957 until 1959, S. Dolores was missioned to Villa Nazareth, a school for boys, operated by the SC Congregation in Rome, Italy. Of that experience she wrote: “In Rome I learned a whole new culture, and was with children eager to love us and to have us love them.” In 1972 S. Dolores was asked to join the music faculty at the College of Mount St. Joseph where she remained for four years. From there her ministry took a new direction as she helped care for her ill mother in her hometown of Omaha, Nebraska, until her death. In 1983 she became sacristan at the Motherhouse’s Immaculate Conception Chapel, which was, for her, a labor of love; she gave more than 30 years to this ministry. At the time of her Diamond Jubilee she remarked: “You never know what the months are going to bring, but every month in this ministry brings the joy of helping to bring people together to celebrate the love of the Lord.” S. Margaret Mach remembers S. Dolores as “a loving and gentle person who deeply cared. She truly lived the charity charism.” S. Dolores died June 4, 2015, at the age of 87 in Mother Margaret Hall.

Celestia Koebel attended St. Mary Elementary and Catholic Central High School in Chillicothe, Ohio, where she was taught by the Sisters of Charity. It was her sister Ann’s vocation (she had entered three years prior) that attracted S. Celestia to the SC Congregation, a decision she never regretted. S. Celestia earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the College of Mount St. Joseph in 1958. She began nursing at Good Samaritan Hospital, Cincinnati, in 1948; upon completion of her master’s in health care administration in 1964, Sister was sent to St. Joseph Hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as administrator; she remained there for 21 years. In the years from 1964 until 1985, S. Celestia oversaw the construction of two new hospitals and became actively involved with professional organizations, serving as the first woman chair of the USCC Diocesan Coordinators of Health Affairs; president of the Association of Western Hospitals (The Healthcare Forum); and trustee of the Catholic Health Association (CHA). In 1982 she testified before the subcommittee of Health and Commerce in Washington, D.C. on the role of the federal government in health planning. In 1985 S. Celestia was appointed president of the Sisters of Charity Health Care Systems (SCHCS), a position she held for 11 years. During her tenure, SCHCS expanded its services, its growth and its influence leading to an expansion of the ministry from the SC Congregation to that of a broader Church ministry. S. Celestia helped to guide the consolidation of three Catholic Health Care systems and their sponsors to become Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) in April 1996. Today it is one of the leading health care organizations in the country. In 1987 the Board of Trustees of St. Joseph Healthcare Corporation in Albuquerque named the new St. Joseph Cancer Center the S. Celestia Pavilion where a bronze bas relief of her was installed.

“S. Celestia Koebel showed incredible leadership, courage and vision … Her legacy and commitment to the Catholic health care ministry will continue forever.” Jerry Judd, former colleague

S. Noreen Ellison shared, “I thank God for Celestia’s dedication and leadership in the health care ministry. Celestia was generous and she truly witnessed the virtue of humility.” S. Celestia was a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 69 years. She died Nov. 27, 2015, at the age of 87 at Good Samaritan Hospital.

Rosemary Robers (formerly S. Rita Miriam) graduated from Mount St. Joseph Academy in Cincinnati in 1944. As a senior student at the Academy, S. Rosemary had both a great-aunt and a sister in the Community; she wanted to be like them. Sister entered the Sisters of Charity in the fall after graduation. She was a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 71 years. S. Rosemary earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from the College of Mount St. Joseph in 1956 and a master’s degree in English from St. John’s Teacher’s College, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1965. Sister taught primary, intermediate and junior high students in schools in Michigan, Maryland and Ohio for more than 50 years.

“I loved to hear the stories of S. Rosemary Robers’ teaching career which told of humor, but also of how she touched lives. Rosemary knew how to love.” S. Joyce Brehm

In 1993, as she neared retirement age, S. Rosemary wanted a productive career change, but desired to continue as a teacher, a ministry which she always loved. Having taken a computer class at the College of Mount St. Joseph a few years previous, and hearing that St. Lawrence School (Price Hill) had a room full of computers but no teacher, she applied. It was a wonderful way to transition, a ministry that kept her in touch with young people and learning until 1998. When it came time to retire, S. Rosemary continued to volunteer as a library assistant at the Motherhouse. She served in the Motherhouse Resource Center for seven years, processing the acquisition of books and periodicals, referring to it as “the best place to work in the whole Motherhouse.” A highlight for S. Rosemary came when she completed her master’s thesis in English; the thesis was published as a successful teacher’s manual, a student picture dictionary and a student workbook. It was a most helpful teacher tool, valued by many classroom teachers, including fellow Sisters of Charity. As a former first grade teacher, S. Cookie Crowley referred to S. Rosemary’s picture dictionary as “the greatest tool ever. The ‘pictionary’ was a gift indeed. Thank you, Rosemary.” S. Diana Durling recalls living with S. Rosemary. “Rosemary was a religious woman of great peacefulness and calm. She was very quiet, however often there when one needed her. She had lots of wisdom that she would share with us. She was a compassionate, loving person. I appreciated her touch upon life.” S. Rosemary died Oct. 22, 2015, at the age of 89 in Mother Margaret Hall.

Zoe St. James (formerly S. Mary Christopher) graduated from Holy Name High School in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1950 where she was taught by the Sisters of Charity. While working as a nurse aide she met the Vincentian Sisters of Charity and chose to enter the Community in 1950. Following the merger of the two congregations in 2004, S. Zoe saw this as the perfect atmosphere in which to live out her later years; she loved both communities. For 30 years Sister taught in primary grades in schools in the Cleveland Diocese beginning at St. John, Akron, in 1953. In 1983 S. Zoe sought out a program at Cuyahoga Community College, and received an Associate in Applied Science in medical records; she became a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) in 1986 and used those skills at three Cleveland area nursing facilities until retiring in 2007. During retirement, while living in Cincinnati, S. Zoe enjoyed one of her learned skills, palm braiding, which she first learned from one of her Sister teachers at Holy Name. She continued this ancient art for more than 50 years; it became a hobby and a creative outlet, using the palm received at the liturgy on Palm Sunday. When reflecting on how her life had traveled S. Zoe said, “I came full circle back to where I belong as a Sister of Charity when we merged in 2004. I found new energy in new relationships. I recall S. Rose Alma quoting some lines from The Hound of Heaven, ‘God is always seeking you.’ This has been extremely helpful in deciding big steps that changed my life.”

“S. Zoe St. James had a smiling, kind face and listened deeply and carefully when people shared.” S. Alice Ann O’Neill

Her good friend, S. Delia Sizler, remarked, “When I was back this spring we decided to make bread, a new venture for her. She loved the kitchen and spent many happy hours trying recipes. And she always had soup to serve to anyone who showed up at odd hours between meals. You couldn’t go hungry around Zoe.” S. Mary Catherine Faller remembers, “After the merger, Zoe was the first of the Bedford Sisters to join our music group. And she shared her beautiful voice with us ever since. I think I can speak for all of the group that she will be truly missed, but I am sure she is now singing in heaven – and will always be with us in spirit.” S. Zoe died Sept. 15, 2015, at the age of 84 in Mother Margaret Hall. 15

orn and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, S. Joan Carole Schaffner attended St. Patrick School where she was educated by the Sisters of Charity and graduated from Our Lady of Angels in 1953. It was the friendliness of the Sisters there that first attracted her to consider religious life. In her autobiography she states: “It just seemed to me that they were warm and joyful; this drew me to consider it. I stayed and have only become happier with my and God’s decision.” S. Joan Carole earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from the College of Mount St. Joseph in 1964 and a master’s in theology from Aquinas College, Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1969. For 15 years Sister taught in schools in the Cincinnati Archdiocese.

“As a medical social worker at Good Samaritan Hospital, S. Joan Carole Schaffner’s ministry with parents who lost babies at birth was a lifeline that comforted and encouraged many, many moms and dads as they faced their heartache.” S. Marge Kloos

Through a summer working experience in 1969 at Cincinnati Good Samaritan Hospital, S. Joan Carole recalled her love for the healing ministry and specifically social work. While in high school she had worked at Good Samaritan on weekends as a nurse aide in obstetrics. In 1971 she became a full-time student at St. Louis University in Missouri, completing her master’s degree in social work in 1973. She became a medical social worker at Cincinnati Good Samaritan Hospital that same year and never left until her retirement in 2004. She began in the perinatal department, ministering to newborn babies and their mothers. Over the years she worked with the most fragile of patients: babies born to mothers who were very young, without homes or family support, developmentally delayed, or victims of domestic violence or rape. Her goal, always, was to make sure these babies were taken care of when they left the hospital. For her retirement years S. Joan Carole looked to other institutions with which the Sisters of Charity were affiliated to volunteer. She returned to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit as a “cuddler” and helped at the surgical desk. She visited the residents at St. Joseph Home in Cincinnati, making daily calls when the need was great. S. Barbara Davis recalls that S. Joan Carole was her cooperating teacher when she was doing her student teaching at St. Lawrence in Cincinnati in 1963. “Joan was a ‘master teacher’ who exhibited great care for each of her sixth grade students.” S. Joan Carole died May 16, 2015, at the age of 80 in Mother Margaret Hall. She was a Sister of Charity of Cincinnati for 61 years.

Therese Sliva (formerly S. Mary Christine) attended Our Lady of Mercy Parish and St. Procop High School in Cleveland, Ohio. Living close to the parish growing up, in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, she and her twin sister, Florence, spent all of their spare time at the school, helping the Vincentian Sisters of Charity who taught at the parish school. It was that experience that started her thinking about religious life and she chose to enter the Community in September 1945; her twin entered at the same time. Following the merger of the two congregations in 2004, S. Therese saw this as a most welcome atmosphere in which to live out her later years; she adjusted well to the new community. S. Therese earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from St. John Teacher’s College in Cleveland. For more than 50 years Sister taught the primary grades in schools in the Greater Cleveland area beginning at St. Ladislas in 1950. In 2003, S. Therese and her sister, S. Florence, looked to serving at Light of Hearts Villa on the adjoining Vincentian Sisters of Charity grounds. They also moved there to live. Their presence at Light of Hearts became very important to the residents. S. Helen Therese Scasny recalled, “We were very grateful for all of their help. They frequently brought their kindergarten children from St. Mary’s to entertain the residents for major holidays which brought smiles to many faces.” For her retirement years Sisters Therese and Florence became familiar persons walking in the Bedford neighborhood, often stopping to talk and offering to pray for the other person’s concerns or worries. When moving to the Mount St. Joseph Motherhouse they also became well-known for their walks around the Motherhouse campus, regardless of the weather. Cold temperatures were never a hindrance.

“S. Therese Sliva was a simple woman of faith, who shared the love of her God with everyone she met.” S. Marty Dermody

S. Diana Durling remembers S. Therese’s willingness to assist in the Hospitality Office, distributing papers and keeping the elevator memos up-to-date; her ministry there was of great importance. “Both she and her sister, S. Florence, were invaluable helpers, especially when it came to laminating. Talk about devoted, dependable, loyal, generous, kind, thoughtful, friendly, conscientious, helpful, and hard working - I cannot say enough for all they did for us! I loved to hear their stories, which were unique. They lived full lives, always wanting to do more,” she said. S. Therese died Dec. 6, 2015, at the age of 85 in Mother Margaret Hall. 17

ssociate Mary Rita Vonderhaar was born to Edward and Marie Vonderhaar in Reading, Ohio, on Sept. 3, 1924. She was the oldest of four children. Mary attended Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School in Reading, and graduated from Our Lady of the Angels High School. During the summer before Mary’s senior year, she began working as a nurse aide at Cincinnati Good Samaritan Hospital. She transitioned to medical secretary in the Radiology Department soon after graduation and remained there for the next 13 years. Mary spent all of her working years in either hospital or medically related work in doctors’ offices, including five years in the Pathology Department at Christ Hospital.

“Gentle, soft spoken, kind, Mary Vonderhaar expressed the Charity charism in every aspect of her life.” Associate Vicki Welsh

Mary became an Associate in Mission on Jan. 8, 1995, with S. Madeline O’Hara as her Contact Sister. In response to a question in 1995 about being an Associate, Mary wrote, “I would like to ‘be’ as well as “do”; to be for those in need of help, listening, caring, sharing a meal with them. I help with an elderly woman in my apartment complex, several of my friends with psychological problems, and visit the sick.” Besides those many things, she was very active in the Right to Life of Cincinnati and supported prayer programs, social programs and activities they sponsored. She also volunteered in the ICU at Good Samaritan Hospital after her retirement. Fellow Associate Vicki Welsh had nothing but kind words to say about Mary: “Mary Vonderhaar was a loving soul. Gentle, soft spoken, kind, she expressed the Charity charism in every aspect of her life. Mary, I will always remember you with great fondness.” About being an Associate, Mary wrote the following: “I like the thought of belonging to a group whose ideals are Christ-centered and who share their spirit of love and caring so generously.” S. Martha Walsh remembers Mary as “lovely and spiritual.” She said, “I had contact with Mary several different times at the Milford retreat house and was glad to be able to take her home after retreats. She was a lovely and spiritual lady. I am sure she was ready to meet her God. Peace, Mary.” Mary Vonderhaar died Nov. 14, 2015, at the age of 91 while living at the Little Sisters of the Poor Nursing Home in Cincinnati.

ssociate Claire Wirt was born in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, on Sept. 11, 1925. Claire moved to Dade County, Florida, and married Dr. Winton (Sandy) Wirt. Together they had two children, Annette and Winton (Rusty). Claire worked in her physician husband’s office for 20 years and during that time she became very active as a CCD teacher at St. Benedict’s Church. She was responsible for the First Communion classes for over 20 years and taught Bible School. She had expertise as a seamstress and helped produce varied medieval costumes for the parish Christmas dinner theatre. After meeting and working with S. Mary Loyola Mathia, Claire became an Associate of the Sisters of Charity on Nov. 10, 1984, and celebrated her Silver Jubilee at the Motherhouse in July 2009. Associate Jane Burdette remembered Claire as “always quiet and peaceful, steadfast and devoted to being an Associate. I would say she stayed ‘under the radar’ but lived a life of charity.” In 1985 she worked with St. Vincent de Paul Society to set up Daystar Life Center, an outreach for those in need. She was a good friend to another Florida Associate, Madeleine Davis. Together they would visit River Oaks Nursing Home and pray, sing, hug and talk with the residents. She also visited the prison once a month. Even when she retired Claire still found time to make baptismal robes for the parish, to visit the sick and to live the spirit of St. Elizabeth Seton. In 2003 when asked about her prayer life Claire said, “The rosary means more to me now than it did in my school. The prayers I say by heart are in French. My family was French Canadian. At night when I go to bed I ask myself, ‘What good did I do today?’ And I can say I prayed with others and for others.”

“Claire Wirt was always quiet and peaceful, steadfast and devoted to being an Associate. … [She] lived a life of charity.” Associate Jane Burdette

Claire’s quick wit, humor and love will be missed by all who knew her, including her card playing circle of friends. “Many of the things that Claire did for others, we will never know about as she never felt it necessary to go around telling others what she had done,” said Associate Linda Wolfertz. Claire Wirt died Feb. 20, 2015, at her Florida home under the care of her loving children.

“At last I have found my vocat ion: My vocation is love.” St. Therese of Lisieux

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Photo by S. Marty Dermody, SC