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Our Lady of the Angels Province celebrates 75 years

The Felician Sisters of Our Lady of the Angels Province in Enfield, Connecticut celebrated their 75th anniversary from August 2, 2007 - August 2, 2008.  This province (their original membership were once members of the Immaculate Conception Province in Lodi, New Jersey) was founded from the Lodi province in 1932. 

Immaculate Conception Province, founded in 1913 from the Immaculate Heart of Mary Province in Buffalo, New York, grew so quickly that by 1932 they were ready to found their daughter province of Enfield, Connecticut which covered New York City and the New England states.

                                                                        Our Lady of Angels Convent Chapel Main Altar

As this jubilee year draws to a close, the Sisters in Enfield invited their founding province to come for a day to celebrate God's blessings over these past 75 years.  And what a time we had! -- so many memories, so many embraces, so many graces and blessings!  They can only be recounted fully in eternity when we are united in that eternal embrace of our Loving Father.

Highlights of the day included a joyous liturgy of Thanksgiving, after which we had, appropriately, a "Thanksgiving" meal followed by a wonderful little program of entertainment by the Sisters in the Infrimary and tours of the Enfield provincial complex: the Formation House; the Infirmary; the Archives, and the Child Care Center.   The day concluded with a wonderful "create your own sundae" with angel cake, fresh fruit and toppings with whipped cream. 

Decorated Dining Room

After providing us with bag lunches for the bus trip home we bade these wonderful Sisters of ours a loving and fond farewell with hopes of doing this trip again.  Perhaps Enfield will come to Lodi!

Left to right - Clockwise: SM Aquinas Szott, Provincial Minister of Lodi province, presents a gift to Sisters of Our Lady of Angels province; SM Bernardine Mucha, Provincial Minister of Enfield province, reads the Greetings from Lodi; Sister Bernardine thanks Sister Aquinas for the greetings and gift;Sisters listen and share.

Entrance Procession; SM Seraphine (Enfield), SM Bridget and Sr. Rose Mary (both Lodi) in offertory procession; congregation; Father Adolphe Renkiewicz, Chaplain in Enfield.

Left to right - Clockwise: SM Rut (Przemysl) and SM Clare (Livonia) join us in Enfield;SM Andrew and SM Bridget; Sisters at dinner.

Left to right - Clockwise: Sisters sharing; SM Juanita and SM Joellen; Members of Angel Band.

Left to right: Sr. Monica Mary Drogon; SM Victoria Olender and SM Joanita Ziemba; SM Laureann addresses the Sisters and explains the contents of their Jubilee Timecapsule.

Left to right - Clockwise: SM Antonia Miodowska sharing memories and telling jokes; Sr. Marie Teresa dancing the polka with SM Laureann; Sister Dolores Ann and SM Bernardine dance the polka; Sr. Theresa, director of the Angel Band saying a few words.

Sr. Nancy Marie holds the microphone for SM Anastasia as she shares memories and funny stories; Sr. Marilyn Marie and a new friend.

Left to right - Clockwise: SM Bernardine bidding us farewell;Sisters saying "goodbye" to the Angel Band; Sisters saying "Goodbye" as we leave.

           Happy Anniversary, Dear Sisters!

     Ad Multos Annos!

2008 Franciscan Federation -
Pilgrims and Strangers: Eyes fixed on Christ

The 2008 Annual Franciscan Federation Conference took place on July 24-27, 2008 in Denver, Colorado.

"Francis 'Eyes Fixed On Christ' caught the message of the Gospel, absorbed it, journeyed with it and sent it with renewed strength across the Italian hills and mountains into the future.  Francis concentrated on the path not on the distance and his life merged and blended into that of Jesus." This is the message found on the opening pages of the program for this year's conference.

The challenge to carry out this message was given to the participants at the conference that they would consider making it real in their own individual lives.

The keynote address, given by Sister Joanne Schatzlein, OSF, charged the body to become 'pilgrims and strangers' - "accepting the challenge of Jesus and Francis to be open to  what each place, each person, each event might reveal to us." "A pilgrim physically moves toward something.  He makes a journey.  Being 'stranger' describes the poverty and humility that is all any of us can claim as our own." This challenge requires a lifetime of growth and discovery. We need to decide if we are up to that challenge.

The Peacemaker Award this year was given to Sister Mary Ramona Borkowski in our Lodi Province for the way she carries out the legacy of Blessed Mary Angela in her own life.  Blessed Angela's love for those who are poor and forgotten is found in the heart of Sister Ramona who had a vision of caring for exceptional children.  Overcoming many difficulties she began the Felician School for Exceptional Children.  Sister Ramona is esteemed by all because of her work with over fifty school districts in New Jersey.  She lives and witnesses Franciscan joy, support, boundless energy, encouragement in selfless dedication and compassion to others.

Sister Mary Ramona Borkowski

Left to right clockwise: SM Ramona Borkowski with students at Felcian School for Exceptional Children enjoying a frog;SM Ramona and student on Ring Day; SM Loretta Borkowski, SM Ramona Borkowski and Sr. Rose Marie Smiglewski, Administrative team at The Felician School for Exceptional Children; Graduation at The Felician School for Exceptional Children.

Sister Ramona on Ring Day; Sister Ramona with a student.

Sister Lynn Marie Zawacka, Provincial Councilor and Sister Mary Michaelita Wiechetek paticipants in this year's Federation Conference.

Representing the Sisters of the Lodi province were Sister Lynn Marie Zawacka, provincial councilor and Sister Mary Michaelita Wiechetek, who accepted the award in Sister Ramona's name.

Peacemaker's Certificate awarded to Sister Mary Ramona Borkowski, CSSF

For more information on the Franciscan Federation and this year's conference go to: www.franfed.org

Congratulations ! Sister Mary Ramona Borkowski! our 2008 Franciscan Peacemaker!!!

Welcome Home, SM Elvine!

On Thursday, July 17, 2008, Sister Mary Elvine Dymnicka, returned to the Immaculate Conception Province in Lodi, New Jersey after 20 years of missionary service in Kenya, Africa. 

Matiri mission in Kenya, is a sponsored mission by the Felician Sisters of our Warsaw province.  After discerning her call to missionary life, Sister Mary Elvine very happily journeyed to serve in this mission in Africa. For this return trip home Sister Elvine was accompanied by Sister Mary

                                                      SM Elvine Dymnicka and SM Noemi Centek are welcomed to Lodi

Noemi Centek of the Warsaw province who worked with Sister at the mission.  Sister Mary Noemi will return to Africa after a brief visit to Lodi while she tours the surrounding area of New York City..

We praise God for your years of service to His people and we rejoice to have you home among us. May God continue to bless you as you continue to discern His will for your life as a Felician Sister.

Left: SM Elvine and SM Noemi; Right: SM Elvine and SM Noemi being welcomed by SM Euthalia.

Left: SM Elvine and SM Noemi relax on a bench in the foyer; Right: some Welcome Home balloons

Decorations welcoming Sister Mary Elvine home.

Immaculate Conception Province Celebrates 95 Years

Sunday, July 13, 2008 was a milestone in the annals of Felician history in the Immaculate Conception Province of Lodi, New Jersey.  On this day the Felician Sisters of the Lodi province celebrated their 95th birthday! July 14 was the actual Founding date. July 22, 2008 will mark the 93rd anniversary of the privilege of Eucharistic adoration in the Immaculate Conception Convent Chapel.  Both celebrations were commemorated on July 13th because of their equal importance to the Sisters.

The day began with a joyous celebration of Morning Prayer followed by a delicious breakfast prepared by Chartwells Food Service.

Mass Booklet cover marking the Anniversary celebration

Upper left to right clockwise: decorated dining room; watermelon fruit salad;
Sisters sharing breakfast together.
Bottom left to right clockwise: Sister Laverne pins a corsage on Sister Renee; Mary E. Werner and Beverly Brachocki, Felician Associates pin their corsages; Sister Marie Alexander receives a helping hand; Immaculate Conception Chapel;  a part of the Felician Sisters choir.

Mass was celebrated in the Immaculate Conception Convent chapel at 11:00 am.  Presider and homilist for the Eucharistic Liturgy was Very Rev. Canon Felix R. Marciniak, pastor of Most Sacred Heart Church in Wallington, New Jersey. Rev. Placid Stroik, OFM, Chaplain to the Sisters and Rev. Damian Colicchio Chaplain and Director of Campus Ministry at Felician College were concelebrants. At the end of the Liturgy there was a solemn procession of the Blessed Sacrament around the chapel.

Left to right clockwise: Entrance Procession; Celebrants - Father Placid Stroikand Father Felix Marciniak;Father Placid and Father Damian Colicchio; the concelebrants at the altar; the Congregation; Sister Lisa Marie at the first reading; Father Felix at the Gospel procession; Sisters Bridget and Fidelma presenting the gifts at the Offertory; Sister Marie Victoria with the altar servers.

Left to right clockwise: SM Aquinas Szott, Provincial Minister, welcomes the congregation; SM Juanita at the 2nd reading; S Marie Teresa taking pictures; Father Felix delivering the homily.

Left to right clockwise: S Rose Marie and SM Rebecca are cup ministers; Fr. Felix carrying the Monstrance in procession; Fr. Felix incensing the Blessed Sacrament in the Monstrance; Sisters receiving Holy Communion.

Left to right clockwise: Sisters in procession before the Blessed Sacrament; shrine of Blessed Mary Angela; shrine of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in the Immaculate Conception Convent Chapel.

The Felician Sisters Choir under the direction of Sister Marilyn Marie Minter and accompanied by Sister Mary Virginia Tomasiak, organist sang for the Liturgy.

Some Felician Sisters Choir Members from left to right clockwise: SM Alphonse; SM Aloysius; S Monica Mary; S Lenore Marie;SM Sophie; SM Alice; SM Alicia in a moment of quiet prayer; S Margaret Marie; S Marilyn Marie on guitar and SM Virginia at the organ

A festive dinner was served to all Felician Sisters, Felician Associates and invited guests in the Providence Dining Hall prepared by Chartwells Food Service. Entertainment was provided by Tony and Christian Liguori who sang and played instrumental pieces during the dinner

Left to right clockwise: Sisters and Associates enjoying the meal and each other's company;Anniversary cake; Sister Mary Antonelle and her Mom, Antonette Chunka and her sister Cecilia Kaczala (both Felician Associates)

Christian and Tony Liguori of Wallington, NJ entertained with music and song; Chartwells Food Service under the direction of Peter Ciaravino and staff.

After the delicious meal, the sisters spent time in chapel in private prayer and visited with the Sisters in the Our Lady of Lourdes Hall Infirmary.  At 4:00 pm an Hour of Prayer was celebrated in the chapel which included Evening Prayer.  A fitting conclusion to a wonderful day!

Left to right clockwise: SM Carmeline and SM Paulinette; SM Stephanie receives a plant for the 95th anniversary from S Margaret Marie; SM Francetta visits with SM Isabelle; S Marie Teresa visits with S Josephine and SM Isabelle; Marilyn Anthes, Felician Associate visits with SM Consolata; another Felician Associate, Ann Marie Bossong, visits with SM Theresille.

We are so grateful to a Loving God for all His blessings showered upon us these past 95 years!  We continue to give thanks and whisper many grateful "DEO GRATIA'S" for what has gone before us and what is yet to come.  We give thanks for 93 years of faithful adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament and pray for continued faithfulness as we look forward to many more years of service to our God.

Co-Chairpersons of the Anniversary Committee were Sister Lisa Marie DiSabatino and Sister Cynthia Marie Babyak.  We would like to thank them and all who worked with them on committee and in any other way contributed to this beautiful occasion. 

     Happy 95th Anniversary to the Immaculate Conception Province!

Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz Visits  American
Czestochowa Shrine in Doylestown PA

Sunday, June 22,2008, was a day of great joy for many people of Polish descent as Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, Archbishop of Cracow, Poland visited the beautiful American Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown, PA.  His eminence was the celebrant and homilist at a Solemn Mass celebrated at 12:30 pm.  Following the Mass Cardinal Dziwisz blessed the newly completed Rosary Garden. 

A festive banquet was held in the Visitor Center Dining Hall for invited guests in honor of Cardinal Dziwisz.




Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz addressing congregation at Mass.

Felician Sisters present were: Sister Mary Aquinas Szott, Provincial Minister, Sister Mary Anastasia Wdowiak, Sister Lynn Marie Zawacka, and Sister Mary Juanita Arnister, all members of the Leadership team representing the Felician Sisters of the Immaculate Conception Province of Lodi, New Jersey.  The Sisters really enjoyed the day and the celebration with Polish culture and tradition.

For more information go to: czestochowa.us  and click on NEWS.

Left: Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz distributing Holy Communion at Mass;Right: Cardinal Dziwisz visiting with Very Reverend Krzysztof Wieliczko, OSPPE, Provincial Superior(on the right) and another Pauline Father.

Sister Marilyn Minter Celebrates with Young Adults
at Seton Hall University

Conference inspires young adults to live faith, calling 'with passion'

By Michael Wojcik
News Editor

SOUTH ORANGE - Talk about passion. Felician Sister Marilyn Minter showed the "younger generation" a thing or two about "shaking things up" - in life and in their individual vocations - at the fifth annual N.J. Young Adult Conference at Seton Hall University here.

The animated Sister Minter - the music and liturgy director of her religious community at its provincial house in Lodi - not only challenged the Catholic young adults at the dynamic conference, held on Saturday, June 14, to "live with passion," she showed it. Dressed in her order's habit and brown robe, the nun strummed her guitar and belted out the lyrics to several contemporary Christian songs. She even sank to her knees on the floor - all while strumming and singing.

"Shake it down. Say 'yes' [to God]," said Sister Minter in a talk after her opening songs; she walked around a large lecture hall with a wireless microphone and engaged the audience of mostly married and single men and women in their 20s and 30s. "God has anointed you with gifts - as a massage therapist, a computer programmer or whatever. You have a mission and it won't get done unless you do what you need to do. The Church needs you now," she said.

In her talk, filled with pop references - from Bruce Springsteen to passion-filled NBC newsman Tim Russert, who died last week, Sister Minter called on the young adults to listen for God's plan for them through prayer, Scripture and other people.

"When we live our lives with passion, our lives can change. It's not about me; it's about Him [God]," said Sister Minter, also campus minister at Immaculate Conception High School, Lodi, at the all-day conference, sponsored by the Newark Archdiocese, the dioceses of Paterson and Metuchen and the Institute for Christian Spirituality at Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology on Seton Hall's campus here.

The conference "gave young adults throughout New Jersey the chance to meet their peers, share their individual experiences of faith and come together as a community," said Jeff and MaryAnne Miller of Our Lady of Consolation Parish, Wayne, who were members of a committee that coordinated the event, which included other faithful from the Paterson Diocese.

(Taken from the Beacon, Paterson Diocese's newspaper)

Clockwise, left to right:  Sr. Marilyn Minter and Brother Tom Corey with a young man; Banner for the day; Sister Marilyn addressing the group; Sister Marilyn playing her guitar for the assembly.

Sister Marilyn Marie Minter addressing the gathering

"One Voice" - Musical CD
                       of Felician Franciscan Sisters of North America

“One Voice” is the title of a musical CD created and produced by the Felician Franciscan Sisters of North America.  The recording became available to the public in June of 2008.  It includes 18 religious selections, several of which were composed by Felician Sisters.

For the geographical area served by the Felician Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception Province, Lodi, NJ, information for the purchase of the record is as follows:

            Contacts:      Sister Mary Alicia or Sister Marilyn Marie
                                260 South Main Street
                                Lodi, New Jersey 07644
                                (973) 473-7447
            Price:            $15 plus $3 shipping and handling for each CD 
                                 Make checks payable to Felician Sisters.                  

Left to right: CD - "One Voice" cover: list of songs and group picture of participants

Top - Sisters singing in recording session; Bottom - listing of songs

Currently, the eight North American Provinces of the Felician Sisters are in the process of “reconfiguration” whereby in late 2009 members will belong to one province.   The Sisters have spent several years in this process of reconfiguration.  The recording of “One Voice” was the inspiration to express the prayerful and faith-filled unity of the process.  Almost 50 Felician Franciscan Sisters from the current provinces in Canada, Connecticut, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York and Pennsylvania gathered in Lodi, New Jersey during Christmas week 2007 to make the recording.  Directors of the project were Sister Marilyn Marie Minter, Sister Veronica Marie Lucero and Sister Margaret Marie Padilla.

Please visit www.feliciansisters.org to learn more about the Felician Franciscan Sisters.  The Lodi Province Sisters are featured on www.felicianslodi.org.   

(Press Release)    

SM Hiltrude Celebrates 75th Anniversary of Religious Life

Sunday, June 8, 2008, was a milestone in the life of Sister Mary Hiltrude Koba.  On that day at Our Lady of Lourdes Hall, a Mass of Thanksgiving was celebrated at 11:15 a.m. in gratitude for her faithfulness to God, community and family for 75 years.

Rev. Placid Stroik, ofm, was presider and homilist.  Rev. Damian Colicchio, Campus Minister at Felician College, concelebrated. The Felician Sisters Choir under the direction of Sister Marilyn Marie Minter and accompanied by Sister Mary Virginia Tomasiak sang for this festive

SM Aquinas Szott, Provincial Minister, pinning a corsage on SM Hiltrude Koba before the Liturgy

liturgy. Sister Theresa Mary Martin, President of Felician College, actively participated in the Liturgy.

In his homily, Father Placid emphasized the gift of gratitude which marked the way Sister Hiltrude lived her life as she used the gifts and talents God gave her. Sister Mary Aquinas Szott, Provincial Minister, further stressed the faithfulness with which Sr. Hiltrude approached every aspect of her life.  Sister Mary Barbara Ann Bosch, Minister General, gifted Sr. Hiltrude with a Papal Blessing from our Holy Father, Benedict XVI, in honor of her 75th Anniversary.

Among all her accomplishments we are particularly grateful to her for her foresight and vision, her kindness, thoughtfulness, gentleness and Christlike manner as she carried out prominent offices: such as third President of Felician College, Vice President and Director of Academic Affairs, Registrar, Director of Development, Moderator of "Older Is Better" as well as many other responsibilities.

Floral Bouquets adorned the altar

Guests who were present included her community of Felician Sisters, her sister, Josephine Sawlinski, her nephew, Philip Sawlinski and other family members and friends.  Several members of "Older Is Better" were also present.    

Clockwise - left to right: SM Hiltrude, her sister, Josephine Sawlinski and her nephew Philip Sawlinski; Congregation of family, friends and Felician Sisters in chapel; Music Ministers, Sr. Marilyn Marie Minter and SM Virginia Tomasiak;Sr. Theresa Mary Martin, President of Felician College; Armand and SM Hiltrude; Rev. Placid Stroik, ofm, Presider and Homilist

Clockwise - left to right: Sisters renew vows before Rev. Placid Stroik and SM Aquinas; Sisters in congregation (top and middle right); Members of "Older Is Better" present the Offertory gifts; Congregation standing for singing of Community hymn "Magnificat"; Felician Sisters Choir

Clockwise - left to right: Rev. Damian Colicchio, Campus Minister at Felician College; Entrance Procession; Festive decorations in the dining room; Rev. Placid Stroik delivering the homily

     Congratulations !  Sister Mary Hiltrude Koba! Ad Multos Annos!

Felician Sisters celebrate 25 Years in Kenya

The Felician Sisters of the Warsaw province are celebrating a 25th Anniversary of the founding of their mission in Keny, Africa. The sisters have established nine missions from this seed.  Vocations to the community are growing.  The celebration of this anniversary took place in Kenya on April 27, 2008.

To learn more about this celebration visit: www.feliciansisters.org

Left to right: Sisters Mary Rut; Anna Maria  and  Mary Noemi; SM Rut

Kenyan Felician Sisters, postulants and novices

Clockwise - Left to right: SM Rut, Sr. Anna Maria and SM Noemi;Cardinal Njuye celebrates Mass; Boys perform dance in celebration; Girls perform in celebration.

Felician Sisters call upon leaders to end Iraqi war

LODI -- The Congregation of Sisters of Saint Felix of Cantalice, the Felician Sisters, have issued a formal statement to President Bush and the U.S. Congress for a "responsible" end to both this country's "occupation" of Iraq and an end to the war there, according to a press release from Immaculate Conception Province. 

The Sisters call for development of an Iraqi Peace Conference that would "unite all factions of Iraqi society and empower the Iraqi people by creating a viable structure that supports the socioeconomic development of their society.

The congregation, which numbers 2,000 Sisters worldwide, also called on the U.S. government, the release continues, "to respond compassionately to Iraqi refugees accepted into the United States."  Sister Mary Barbara Ann Bosch, leader of the worldwide religious community, termed the war "dehumanizing to all people and devastating to the earth."

The formal statement can be found in its entirety at www.feliciansisters.org.

(Taken from The Catholic Advocate, June 4, 2008)

ICHS Baccalaureate Mass

Immaculate Conception High School held its Baccalaureate Mass at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, June 6, 2008 in the Immaculate Conception Convent Chapel in Lodi, New Jersey.  The Class of 2008 will graduate 42 young women.  The presider and homilist at the Mass was Rev. Monsignor Thomas P. Nydegger, the Vice-Rector of Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey.  This class of 2008 chose as their theme for the year "Go, Make A Difference".  Monsignor Nydegger addressed this theme in his homily as he urged these graduates to take charge of their lives and to "go, make a difference" and live the truths that they learned in their four years at Immaculate Conception High School.

A new tradition at ICHS presents each graduate with a small statue of Mary Immaculate at the Baccalaureate Mass so that they would realize the protection of Mary the Mother of God in their lives and would have a reminder of all that they are called to become.  Sister Mary Alicia Adametz, principal of Immaculate Conception High School presented the statues to each graduate.

                                               


SM Alicia Adametz presents statue of Mary Immaculate to Graduates

The Felician Sisters Choir, under the direction of Sister Marilyn Minter, campus minister at the high school, with Sister Mary Virginia as the accompanist and organist, sang for the Liturgy.

Top - Left to right: Student Council with flags for Entrance Procession; Graduates in procession;
Middle - Left to right:  Faculty in procession; Graduates process to their seats;
Bottom - Left to right:  Senior Class President addressing the Class of 2008; Monsignor Tom Nydegger addressing the Graduates.

Clockwise - Left to right: Blessed Mary Angela, foundress of the Felician Sisters; Immaculate Heart of Mary statue in the Chapel; Graduates in Recessional; Immaculate Conception Convent Chapel

Congratulations to our Graduating Class of 2008 and to all Graduates!

Passaic Catholic Regional Graduation

Thursday, June 5, 2008, Passaic Catholic Regional School held its final graduation from its present campus. The next graduating class will come from the campus of St. Anthony-Passaic Catholic Regional School  on Tulip Street in Passaic, New Jersey.

The ceremony, a simple prayer service and Liturgy of the Word was held in St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church on Market Street in Passaic, New Jersey.  Nine students completed the Graduating Class of 2008. Diplomas were presented by Monsignor John Demkovich,

                                                             SM Joselle Ratka, Principal of PCR with gift from Graduates

pastor of St. Mary's, SM Joselle Ratka, principal of  Passaic Catholic Regional School and Cecilia DeMarzio, 8th grade teacher.

SM Anastasia Wdowiak, the first principal of Passaic Catholic Regional School, Sr. Margaret Marie Keslo, Sr. Rose Mary Sauchelli and SM Timothy, former teachers and SM Adrianna, a former staff member, were present for the Graduation as well as several other Sisters who were recognized by Sister Joselle.

Sister Mary Joselle will continue as principal at the new St. Anthony-Passaic Catholic Regional School campus.

Row 1: Music Ministers: Lena Giordano, SM Virginia and Sr. Judith Marie, a former teacher at PCR; Laura Corrubia, vice-principal with Lena Giordano; Row2: Graduate - reader 1; SM Joselle, principal addressing Graduates; Row 3: Mrs. Cecilia DeMarzio, eighth grade teacher; Monsignor John Demkovich, SM Joselle and Cecilia DeMarzio presenting diplomas; Row 4: SM Josita teacher at PCR, Maryann Suita, school secretary; SM Anastasia, first principal of PCR and member of leadership team of Felician Sisters, SM Joselle, current principal, SM Josita, faculty member and Sr. Lynn Marie of the leadership team of the Felician Sisters.


             Congratulations Graduates of 2008!  God Bless PCRS!

Reverend Charles Theobald Celebrates
50th Anniversary of Ordination

Sunday, June 1, 2008 was a milestone in Father Theobald's life as he celebrated his 50th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood. The Liturgy of  the Eucharist was celebrated at the Immaculate Conception Convent Chapel at 2:30 pm.  Father Charles was the presider and homilist while six other priests concelebrated the Eucharist with him. The chapel was filled with family and friends from the parishes where Father spent his priesthood.

 
                                                                                                   Reverend Charles Theobald

Reverend Charles Theobald celebrating Eucharist with family and friends

After a festive Liturgy the celebration continued at Il Villagio where family and friends, nieces and nephews, met and celebrated - recalling memories of the years of Father Charles' life and ministry.  Father continues to witness his faith by his ministry on weekends in a local parish and by giving retreats and talks to religious and laity alike.   

Immaculate Conception Convent Chapel and Rev. Charles Theobald

Scenes from Eucharistic Liturgy; Scenes from the celebration at Il Villagio


This was an occasion for great joy and festivity.  Father Charles continued to minister even in the remembrance souvenir given to all who attended - a Journal of Gratitude - a booklet wherein each individual could record at day's end at least three things they were grateful for.               


Congratulations! Father Charles! Ad Multos Annos!

Divine Mercy Inspiration Day

Divine Mercy Parish of Trenton, New Jersey sponsored a Day of Inspiration with the Jesus Divine Mercy Ministry on Saturday, May 31, 2008 at the Roman Hall in Trenton, New Jersey.  Divine Mercy Parish was the previous Holy Cross Parish where many of our Sisters taught over the years.  Fourteen sissters attended the event invited by Beverly Sce, PhD, a former student of the Felician Sisters and the founder and Director of Jesus Divine Mercy Ministry located in Yardley, Pennsylvania.

The program consisted of celebration of the Eucharist, an instruction  and Brunch.  Rev. Monsignor Edward Arnister, pastor of Divine Mercy Parish and brother of SM Juanita Arnister, was the presider for the Eucharist.  Monsignor Arnister is also the Chaplain for the Jesus Divine Mercy Ministry.  The main speaker for the day was Kristina M. Sadley Director of Prophecy Designs Gallery in Robbinsville, New Jersey.  Her topic was Iconography.  She explained to us what an Icon is and that Icons are not painted - they are written because they are spoken words of God. She gave us a deeper understanding of what icons are, a very spiritual encounter with the HOLY..

                                                                                     Kristina M. Sadley, iconographer


Sisters in attendance were: SM Juanita Arnister, SM Angela Machowski, SM Ellen Brulinski, SM Elaine Lechert, SM Carmeline Kowalski, SM Victoria Olender, SM Claire Walsh, SM Andrew Borys, SM Timothy Ruszala, Sr. Monica Mary Drogon, SM Alphonse Stachowski, SM Auguste Biache, SM Valenta Akalska and SM Joellen Zajac.  Dr. Sce was especially delighted to renew acquaintance with SM Valenta Akalska, her second grade teacher who taught her at St. Hedwig School 45 years ago. Each sister received a blue carnation as a gift of the Amoroso Florist in Trenton.

                                            






Divine Mercy Icon written by Kristina M. Sadley for Divine Mercy Parish

Left to right:Top - SM Elaine, SM Ellen, SM Angela; Mr. Douglas Sce, Kristina M Sadley, SM Timothy, Deacon Dave, Sr. Monica Mary, SM Joellen; Middle - SM Juanita, her sister, Joan Russell, and her brother, Monsignor Edward Arnister;SM Victoria receiving a carnation; Bottom - SM Andrew, SM Claire and SM Valenta; Mr. Douglas Sce, SM Timothy, SM Juanita, Monsignor Arnister, SM Elaine, SM Angela, Dr. Beverly Sce.

Saint Ignatius Nursing Home Has May Crowning

On May 22, 2008, a procession of wheelchairs and walkers took place in the chapel of St. Ignatius Nursing Home in Philadelphia to honor and crown the statue of the Blessed Mother.  The May Court participants represented each nursing unit of the Home; Josephine Sawlinski, 4th floor, Helen Chance, 3rd floor, and Dorothy Szymendera, 2nd floor.  The crown bearer was Daniel Comdico. 

As the congregation sang the Lourdes hymn, Father Joseph Okonski, Chaplain and Pastor of St. Ignatius and Our Mother of Sorrows parishes, did the honor of placing the crown and the flowers of each participant in the vases.                                                                                   

The Memorare was recited by all.

   May Court: Josephine Sawlinski, Daniel Comdico, Helen Chance and Dorothy Szymendera; Father Joseph Okonski, Chaplain at SINH, crowns the Blessed Mother

                                       Ave, Ave, Ave Maria!

Felician Associates Retreat Day

"Called By Name: the Prayer of Francis and Clare,"was a mini-retreat presented on Saturday, May 17, 2008. It was a day filled with peace, silence and information on the prayer of Francis and Clare.   Brother Kevin Smith, OSF, of the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn, and a professor at Felician College was the presenter for the day. 

Felician Associates present for the event really enjoyed the wit and knowledge of Brother Kevin and came away with a wonderful feeling of knowing Francis and Clare in a deeper way.The day was also open to the Sisters who wished to participate and many Sisters chose to attend.  It was a day that was enjoyed by all who came. The Felician Associates look forward to many more days of this nature.

                                                                              Brother Kevin Smith, OSF, addressing the group

Left to right clockwise: Felician Associates and Sisters - Delia Chamorro, Cecilia Kaczala; Beverly Brachocki, SM Adele Bandurski, Maureen Morosco, Mary E. Werner; Ann-Marie Bossong, Margaret Flynn, Delia Chamorro, Mary E. Werner, SM Elaine Lechert; Jackie Bakal

Top left to right: SM Pontia Zdichowski, SM Bridget Becker, Mark Ley

Bottom left to right: Brother Kevin Smith and SM Auguste Biache; Kathy Martin, Delia Chamorro; Marilyn Anthes, Ann-Marie Bossong, SM Alice Buczko

Three Alarm Fire Drill at OLLH

Saturday, May 10, 2008 was a true learning experience for the Sisters in Our Lady of Lourdes Hall Infirmary.

Emergency vehicles from surrounding municipalities, rookie fire fighters, seasoned veterans all converged on the provincial house grounds on Saturday morning to demonstrate proper techniques for rescue in case of an emergency.

Five sisters from each floor in Our Lady of Lourdes facility volunteered to be the "victim" rescued and triaged for treatment.

Left to right -top: Fire truck near Felician College; emergency vehicles parked along the main driveway; Middle: ladder trucks strategically place around OLLH; Bottom: SM Euthalia Adamski and SM Cherubim Lubin volunteer to be of help to the firefighters; SM Lorene Pivinski, OLLH plant manager, discussing strategy with firefighters.

                                  God Bless All of  You! and

Congratulations on a Job Well Done!

Members of Religious Orders and Clergy Become
Pioneers in St. Cabrini Nursing Home

On March 8, 2008, fourteen Sisters belonging to a variety of Congregations and one Roman Catholic Priest  became pioneers when they moved  into the first “neighborhood” completed in St. Cabrini Nursing Home’s (SCNH)  three-year, $55 million major improvement project,  designed to enhance its ongoing Person Centered Care (PCC) philosophy.

The new neighborhood, dedicated exclusively to religious and clergy, is distinctive in that it enables members of various congregations to retain some  of the familiarity of community life, even though they have  medical conditions necessitating 24- hour care in  a skilled nursing facility.

 “I feel like Cinderella,” Sr. Mary Frances De Sales Williams, CSSF,  told visitors from her Felician community.

“This is just the start of a lot of blessings,” SCNH Administrator Barbara Gaughan told Pastoral Care Director Fr. Edwin Robinson, OFM, as he anointed residents, staff, and the facility at a ribbon cutting event.  “You’re going to be very busy over the next year,”  she said, alluding to a series of inaugural events planned as work progresses.

The new neighborhood’s dedication to religious is consistent with PCC’s sensitivity to the individuality of each person and comes at a particularly auspicious time of  increasing longevity. While the very old are more likely to have chronic and complex health challenges, which necessitate 24-hour skilled nursing care,  however, The dwindling size of many congregations makes it difficult for them to provide such high level  of care within their communities.

Among its overall resident population,  St. Cabrini has  cared for as many as 27 religious sisters, priests and brothers at one time.   

Sr. Frances De Sales Williams, CSSF, is welcomed to her new neighborhood by members of her Felician Community, from left, Provincial Minister Sr. Mary Aquinas, CSSF,  Sr. Mary Bridget, CSSF,  Sr. Lynn Marie, CSSF,  Sr. Mary Jean, CSSF, Sr. Mary Anastasia, CSSF, and Sr. Mary Juanita, CSSF.

                          God's Blessings for Good Health!

St. Ignatius Nursing Home Resident Confirmed

Barbara Maxwell, a resident at SINH, raised in the Methodist religion became a convert to Catholicism.  Sister Maureen Lowry, RSM, Director of Pastoral Care  prepared her for the reception of  Communion and Confirmation. 

Barbara received the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist on May 6, 2008  in the chapel at St. Ignatius Nursing Home.    Rev. Joseph Okonski, chaplain and pastor of St. Ignatius Parish officiated.  Sister Mary Agatha Cebula, Director of Mission Integration, was her sponsor for Confirmation.  Barbara took the name of Mary as her confirmation name.      

Left: Barbara Maxwell, center, receiving the sacrament of Confirmation, with SM Agatha as her sponsor; Right:  John Meacham, Administrator of St. Ignatius Nursing Home, SM Agatha, Director of Mission Integration; Reverend Joseph Okonski, Chaplain, Sister Maureen Lowry, RSM Director of Pastoral Care with Barbara Maxwell, resident of St. Ignatius Nursing Home after she received the sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist.

                                   God Bless You!  Barbara!

Felician College Candlelight Service

Felician College Candlelight Service program

Felician College held a Candlelight Service for Student Teachers in the Provincial House Chapel on Monday evening, May 5, 2008.  As always, Sister Theresa Mary Martin, Felician College President, delivered an inspirational message to the fledgling teachers. Reverend Tom Orians, SA, offered the reflection.

Music for this impressive ceremony was provided by Sister Ann Therese Kelly, Sister Maria Magdalena Vallellanes, Sister Marilyn Marie Minter and Sister Mary Virginia Tomasiak.
                                                                                                        Sister Mary Firmina Lajewski

During the ceremony, Dr. Donna Barron-Baker, Dean of the Division of Teacher Education, announced the recipients for scholarships in honor of two Felician Sisters:  The Sister Mary Firmina Lajewski Scholarship Award and The Sister Mary Carmeline Kowalski Scholarship Award. The Sister Firmina Award is for a teacher education student who is outstanding in math.   For the Sister Carmeline Award, which is for an outstanding student in teacher education, Dr. Barron-Baker called upon Sister Carmeline to come to the podium and assist in the presentation.

   Sister Mary Carmeline Kowalski

                                   Congratulations! Student Teachers!

Annual Employee Recognition

Wednesday, April 30, 2008, the annual Employee Recognition Day was held in appreciation for the loyalty and service given by our faithful employees.  Two employees recognized for their long and loyal commitment to us are: Maria Zagaja for 25 years of service and Eugenia Michalska for 20 years of service.  Employees are recognized for their service in five year increments.

The employees were recognized at a Prayer Service in honor of St. Joseph the Worker held in our Immaculate Conception Chapel which was followed by a festive dinner in their honor which took place in the Providence Dining Hall. 

Top:  Employees receiving certificates in recognition of their years of service

Clockwise top: Table setting; outside entrance; Employees at dinner; Sister Anastasia welcoming all to the dinner honoring our employees

2008 Gala Held at St. Ignatius Nursing Home

Sunday, April 27, 2008,  a superb Gala was sponsored by St. Ignatius Nursing Home of West Philadelphia, PA. The Annual Spring Gala was held at the Hyatt Bellvue in Center City Philadelphia. Several sisters, including the Sisters on the Corporate Board, attended the Gala and enjoyed it very much. The main performer for this event was celebrated Irish Tenor Ronan Tynan.

St. Ignatius Nursing Home is a sponsored ministry of the Felician Sisters among the elderly poor of Philadelphia. The sisters are proud to be of service and a part of St. Ignatius and the people of West Philadelphia.                                                                                             Ronan Tynan performing

To learn more about St. Ignatius Nursing Home and this wonderful event go to stignatiusnursinghome.org.

NPHS Celebrates Annual Spring Ball

The Ben Franklin House hosted the annual Spring Ball for North Philadelphia Health System on Saturday, April 26, 2008. Sisters Lynn Marie, Mary Auguste, Rita Marie, Mary Carmelita and Mary Annelle attended the event. The camaradarie and sharing at this event gave it a warm and friendly atmosphere.  All enjoyed the evening.

Sister Mary Annelle Velivis is Director of Mission and Values and Sister Mary Carmelita is Director of the Medical Library at NPHS. NPHS is wonderful example of the mission of the Felician Sisters among the poor. 

To learn more about North Philadelphia Health System go to  Welcome to the North Philadelphia Health System Web Site!

   North Philadelphia Health System:  St. Joseph Hospital on the left; Girard Medical Center on the right

25th Anniversary of the Third Order Regular Rule

A Festival of the 25th Anniversary of the Third Order Regular Rule was sponsored by the Franciscan Institute at St. Bonaventure's University April 18 -19, 2008.  SM Juanita Arnister, SM Joellen Zajac, Sister Marie Barbara Szot and SM Annelle Velivis were among the attendees. Roland Faley, TOR, gave the keynote address, "The Rule of 1982: The Work of All the Faithful." Other speakers included: Jean-Francois Godet-Calogeras, Ann Bremmer, OSF, Thomas Barton, OSF, Margaret Carney, OSF.

Sister Juanita and Sister Joellen also attended the Franciscan Federation Council Meeting, as part of Region I, which was held at St. Bonaventure's on April 20, 2008. After discussion, prayer and reflection the two resolutions passed regarding a new organization model that best serves the mission of the Federation.

Papal Visitation

Benedict XVI left us Americans with various memories and messages during his stay in our country. It is a great time to be an American Catholic.

Each of us may have our favorite message but the Pope focused on a few basics.  Christ our hope summarizes the essence of what he said.  Now it is our time as religious women to once again be renewed in our commitment to the Lord as we live out being Felician Sisters.

Sister Maryann Agnes Mueller was in the crowd inside the United Nations as the Holy Father made his way to the Assembly.  Sister Theresa Mary Martin, President of Felician College, joined Catholic educators at Catholic University in Washington, DC to hear the Pope speak.  Sister Mary Aquinas Szott, Provincial Minister, prayed with the clergy and religious men and women in St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City.  Sister Marilyn Marie Minter gathered with youth at St. Joseph's Seminary in Dunwoodie, New York. Many of the faithful in your local settings undoubtedly were also present at a number of papal events.

Ask any of these sisters of our province to relate these  experiences to you.  May all of us be filled with the Spirit of God anew!

These were some pictures taken in St. Patrick's Cathedral during the Mass with the Bishops and Religious Men and Women

Pictures taken in St. Patrick's Cathedral and the last two pictures were taken at the Youth Rally in St. Joseph Seminary, Dunwoodie, New York

                Prayer prayed for the safety of the Pope during his visit

     Banner crossing South Main Street, Lodi, NJ; Statue of Blessed Mary Angela Truszkowska

Fifteen years ago, April 18, 1993, Pope John Paul II proclaimed Mary Angela Truszkowska Blessed.  We, her daughters, happily celebrate this anniversary of her beatification and continue to pray for her canonization. 

A Mass of Jubilee was celebrated on Friday April 18, 2008 in the Immaculate Conception Chapel in Lodi, New Jersey.  Reverend Placid Stroik, OFM was the presider and homilist.  Sisters, Felician Associates, faculty, staff and students from Felician College, Immaculate Conception High School, St. Anthony High School and Bishop George Ahr High School came to celebrate with us.  After the Liturgy a festive dinner was held in the dining room of the convent for all.

It was with great sadness that we learned on April 17, 2008 of the death of Lillian Halasinski of Dunkirk, New York, whose cure was the miracle needed for the Beatification of Blessed Mary Angela. May she rest in peace.

Clockwise left to right: Blessed Angela banners in the vestibule of Immaculate Conception Chapel; Blessed Angela shrine in the Main Chapel and Blessed Angela focus point in Our Lady of Lourdes Hall vestibule.

Clockwise left to right: Bishop Ahr cheerleaders with Sisters in OLLH; St. Anthony Friars Basketball team visit Sisters in OLLH; SM Alicia with ICHS students at Beatification Anniversary Dinner;Cake in honor of 15th Anniversary of Beatification of Blessed Mary Angela;bottom pictures Sisters present for Beatification Anniversary Dinner in Provincial House.