Dear Neighbor Fall 2014

Sisters of St. Joseph / fall 2014 page 1

Published by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden, Pennsylvania fall 2014

Serving God and the dear neighborwithout distinction

Sisters of St. Joseph / fall 2014 Sisters of St. Joseph / fall 2014page 2 page 3

In his message, Pope Francis continues, “Be witnesses of a different way of doing things, of acting, or living! It is possible to live differently in this world . . .”

In this context, the Sisters of St. Joseph, along with women and men religious throughout the world, are mapping out ways to respond to the three main objectives of the Year of Consecrated Life:

• To remember our past with gratitude• To live our present with passion• To embrace our future with hope

As we remember our past with gratitude, we are inspired by the courage and humility of a small group of women in 17th century France. In the midst of famine, disease and poverty, they responded compassionately to their suffering neighbors. They rooted our congregation in ministries that continue to serve our dear neighbors today, differently in this world.

As we live our present with passion, we are inspired by our many partners in mission – Associates, the Auxiliary, Employees, Volunteers, Donors and Friends – all who help us carry out our mission to love and serve our dear neighbor without distinction. Together, with our partners in the community, we work to promote anti-human trafficking efforts, provide produce for the poor, serve the region’s Latino immigrants, and extend spiritual outreach.

As we embrace our future with hope, we are confident that you can help us “wake up the world.” You can help us proclaim the glory and goodness of God. You can help us celebrate the Year of Consecrated Life because you are, have been and always will be at the heart of our consecrated lives.

Blessings,

P.S. We are planning several ways for you to celebrate the Year of Consecrated Life with us:

• Pray with us. See Sister Anne Clifford’s prayer on Page 15.• Participate in our annual food drive for local food pantries. Food donations

will be accepted at our 10 a.m. Liturgy in our Chapel on November 30. This first Sunday of Advent marks the start of the Year of Consecrated Life. • Visit our website www.stjoseph-baden.org and Facebook page www.facebook.com/CSJBaden often as we post new activities.

✛ leadership team letter

Leadership Team members, from left, are Sisters Sharon Costello, Barbara Czyrnik, Diane Cauley and Mary Pellegrino.

Dear Neighbor,

Wake up the world!

This challenge from Pope Francis to all of God’s people in the Church is the overarching theme for the upcoming Year of Consecrated Life, which begins with the first Sunday of Advent (2014) and runs until February (2016).

Ccelebrating Year of Consecrated Life

About the cover

In a spirit of

hospitality, Sisters

Sue Ann Orange

and Nancy Ramirez

welcome neighbors to

their home, carrying

on a tradition of

faith-sharing among

women that began

by our Sisters at the

Green Tree residence

in 2003. Read the

story on Page 4.

We welcome your feedback.

Barbara Hecht – EditorSisters of St. Joseph of Baden, PA1020 State Street • Baden, PA 15005Phone: 724-869-6566Email: [email protected]

Dear Neighbor Contributors

Barbara HechtDirector of Communications

Alison LucciCommunications Specialist

Sister Karen Stoila, CSJDirector of Development

Sister Gerrie Grandpre, CSJPhotographer Assistance

Sister Ruth Bearer, CSJEditorial Assistance

Barb Sterchele, Omega Design GroupDesign/Layout

Herrmann Printing

Permission must be granted for reprinting

articles that appear in the magazine.

Opinions expressed in this magazine do not

always reflect the official positions of the

Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden, PA.

You can visit us online: www.stjoseph-baden.org

You can find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CSJBaden

page 3

Inside this IssueSpirituality and Hospitality 4

Celebrating a Centennial 7

Holy Rosary 8

St. Bernard 9

Jubilarians 10

Tending to Our Land 16

Honoring her Leadership 18

Preserving the Past 20

Development Letter 22

In Loving Memory 23

Notes from Our Neighbors 24

wake up the world with us!


O✛ prayer

(continued on next page)

offering spirituality and hospitalitySisters open their home to their ‘dear neighbors’

For nearly 12 years, the Sisters living

at 1016 Dale Drive in Green Tree

have welcomed their neighbors into their

home to share their joys and pains,

their fears and tears, their families

and faith.

Once a month, a core group of women meet for prayer, taking a deep and peaceful breath away from the hectic pace of their home and work lives. They open their hearts about a daughter who is struggling to become pregnant, a grandson who suffers from depression, and a co-worker who is undergoing chemotherapy. They also pray for the kidnapped girls in Nigeria and the families who lost loved ones in the Malaysian flight.

Amy, a mother of three, worries about “the big picture” of global warming, social injustices and “what the world will be like 30 years from now” for her children. “I get so scared thinking about all of this. Will our children be strong enough to say ‘no’ to all of this, to say ‘enough is enough’?” she asks.

Although some of the women are separated by generations, they all share a common bond and a deep affection for the Sisters of St. Joseph who have listened to and encouraged them over the years.

“We are so blessed to have these women in our lives. They are so supportive of all of us,” says Denise, referring to Sisters Nancy Ramirez and Sue Ann Orange, who have carried on the tradition of the women’s prayer group, which began in 2003.

Denise and her twin sister, Debbie, were taught by Sisters of St. Joseph at St. Bernard School in Mt. Lebanon, PA. Both were invited to participate in the prayer group by their former teacher, Sister

Faith Hepp, who was among the first group of Sisters to live in the Green Tree home. Sister Nancy, who serves in the administrative offices at the Motherhouse, moved to Dale Drive in 2009 while Sister Sue Ann, a youth services librarian at Focus on Renewal, has lived there since 1996.

During a recent gathering in May, Sister Nancy opened the evening with a reflection that celebrated women - from the mother in their families to the blessed Mother and from great women in the Bible to courageous justice seekers such as Mother Jones and Rosa Parks.

“May they inspire us to be ‘women moving church’,” Sister Nancy prays.

Sisters Sue Ann and Nancy


“We can move mountains, too,” Sister Sue Ann tells the women. “Maybe they are very small mountains, and no one notices, but even moving small mountains can help us along the journey.”

Denise confides that she “was not feeling the Spirit” this week when her pregnant daughter was confronted by a medical crisis.

Sister Nancy, whose mother passed away nine years ago, says when she feels isolated or hopeless, she recalls the nurturing faith of her mother and feels that her spirit is still alive within her.

“Maybe these difficult situations are times to seek the comfort of your own mother – or to remember all that Mary did to help Jesus,” she tells the group.

When the prayer group was first formed, Sister Faith, who now lives and serves at a senior

citizen high rise in Lawrenceville,

says, “It was quite a challenge for me.”

“It took some time to help the women reach beyond

the surface, to delve deeper and answer the questions - What does this mean? How does this affect me? The women, too, needed to be comfortable with silence; it’s not something most people can easily experience.”

Over the years, the Sisters have journeyed with them – from the pain of losing a loved one to the joy of celebrating a marriage. On this spring evening, the lively conversation flows freely and easily from the living room and to the dining room where coffee and

almond torte cake are served on cups, saucers and dessert plates that belonged to Sister Sue Ann’s mother.

As the evening comes to a close, Sisters Nancy and Sue Ann gingerly broach a new subject with the women. They explain to the women that the house where they gather for prayer and hospitality will be sold by the Sisters of St. Joseph. The women are surprised, but quickly offer suggestions for keeping the group together and the Sisters’ presence in their lives. Amy,

who also lives on Dale Drive, offers the hospitality of her home.

The fruits of the shared experiences by the women and Sisters are quite evident and enduring. They share tears, hugs, laughs, memories.

Perhaps, too, they are reminded of Sister Nancy’s earlier message: “We leave here today feeling blessed in the smallest of ways . . . let us all stay open to God’s grace as we move forward.”

Ccelebrating a centennial

✛ reconnections

Assumption welcomes Sisters, continues their spirit

Sisters who taught at Assumption School in Bellevue recently returned to their old classrooms and reconnected with former students as part of the school’s centennial celebration.

The Sisters were invited by Principal Mary Ann Miller to a luncheon of appreciation and a student performance that reviewed 100 years of history in costume, song, dance and narration.

Approximately 185 Sisters served at the school and parish community from 1911 to 1985.

At the luncheon, Father Dan Langa thanked the Sisters for their long-time, dedicated service to the school, parish and Church.

Teacher Terry Spindler told Sisters at her table that their spirit lives on in the history and mission of Jesus.

(continued on next page)

Sister Faith, second from left, with former students


Our Sisters were among the more than 100

family members and friends of Alice Bender

Holmes who gathered June 29 to honor her

contributions to the community and church.

Alice met our Sisters at the former Holy Rosary

School in Homewood where she worked.

Her son and one of nine children, Paul-Martin

Bender, recalled, “I practically grew up in

the convent, being loved and nurtured by the

Sisters. I am grateful for the continued love,

respect and appreciation to the Sisters for the

love, respect and care shown to my mom and

family throughout the last 53 years.” From left

are Sister Mary (Walter) Hall, Sister Rosella

Lacovitch, Sister Roseann (John Gregory) Gaul

and Sister Maria Harden with honoree Alice

Bender Holmes, seated.

Holy Rosary

“How absolutely great it was for me to have

my photo taken with my second-grade teacher,

Sister Alberta (Grimme)! She is as sweet as

ever,” said Melissa Wagner Good. Melissa and

her 1969 classmates from St. Bernard Grade

School in Mt. Lebanon invited their former

teachers to their August 9 reunion.

St. Bernard

“I feel like the Sisters are a choir of angels who watch over us,” she said. “I feel that the Sisters helped to give the school a purpose, and that purpose continues today.”

As Sisters toured the school and visited their old classrooms, they recalled vestiges of the past and observed signs of change. A bulletin board display was adorned with black and white photos of the Sisters in their habits in one room while a computer laptop rested on a teacher’s desk in another. At the peak of the school’s enrollment in the 1960s, approximately 1,000 students were enrolled at Assumption and an addition had to be built. Today, 121 students attend the elementary school in Bellevue, PA.

“This brings back so many memories,” said Sister Therese Melucci as she stepped into her former classroom. “When I think of the children, I still get a sense of joy and excitement.”

The former classroom of Sister Michelle Prah was converted to a library. “I was in this room when I heard the news of the assassination of President Kennedy,” she recalled vividly.

Sister Michelle and Sister Judith Kenaan were both reunited with a former student, Mary Vic (Plazek) Taylor. Her four children also attended Assumption School. She still remembers reading “Treasure Island,” which was assigned by Sister Judith. “It wasn’t a book that I ever would have picked to read on my own, but I enjoyed it so much.”

Assumption teacher Rich Bell followed in the footsteps of his teacher, Sister Mary Louise (Ignatius Loyola) Simmons, and was delighted to be reunited with her.

“She taught me the name of every county in Pennsylvania, and I still remember them,” he said, starting to recite them alphabetically.

Sisters who also attended the daylong celebration were Norma Bandi, Elaine DiZinno, Frances Rooney, and Jane Stephen Rosko.

As keepsakes of their visit, Sisters were presented with hand-colored and signed bookmarks from

the students and a pewter Assumption centennial ornament.

In a letter of gratitude to the principal, Sister Michelle wrote, in part: “We did enjoy, for us, what was

a stroll through memory lane and an opportunity to recall how God has led us

and still continues to lead us today . . . Know that we will keep you, your teachers and your children in our prayers.”

page 8 page 9

Sister Mary Louise and Rich

Assumption students welcome Sister Therese to her former classroom.


Mmoving toward profound love of God and neighbor

✛ jubilee

18 Sisters celebrate a total of 1,060 years of loving service

Known as a sensitive and caring teacher, Sister Dolorosa Kleinman served 50 years in classrooms in the dioceses of Pittsburgh, Altoona-Johnstown and Greensburg. From 1965-79, Sister Dolorosa ministered as principal at St. Titus School in Aliquippa.

When she retired from teaching at St. Bernard in Mt. Lebanon in 1991, Sister Dolorosa’s service was acknowledged in the parish bulletin: “She portrayed the ‘Jesus’ that was the essence of the lessons taught. Her love, compassion, faith, understanding, justice and gentleness caused the words of scripture to ‘come alive’.”

Sister Dolorosa followed her sister (Sister Mary Oliver) into religious life with both entering from Holy Rosary Parish in Pittsburgh. “Her happiness and love of religious life greatly influenced me,” she recalled. “One of the greatest joys of my religious life is sharing that life with my sister for many years.”

When she moved to the Motherhouse in 1998, Sister Dolorosa volunteered as a care giver for Sisters in supportive living. She continues her ministry of prayer at Villa St. Joseph where she resides.

“I have been blessed in many ways and for these many blessings I can only say ‘thanks’ to my God,” she said at retirement.

Sister Dolorosa Kleinman, CSJ

75th Jubilarian

Described as a “teacher’s teacher” who demanded discipline and practiced patience, Sister Maureen Walsh encouraged students to develop their best potential.

Following a 30-year tenure as Associate Professor of English, Sister Maureen was named Professor Emeritus at Carlow University, her alma mater. In the 1994 proclamation, the college president called her “a Woman of Spirit who lives among us as a role model to students, an inspiration to faculty . . .”

Upon her retirement, the college’s Humanities Division established the “Sister Maureen Walsh Award for Best Academic Essay.” She taught a number of English and writing courses, but she was best known for her courses on Shakespeare, Irish literature and tragic spirit. At the time, her students spoke “lovingly of the energy and insight with which she brought literature to life.”

Sister Maureen earned her Ph.D. in English at St. Louis University. She also attended the University of Montreal and Fordham University where she received French and Latin certificates, respectively.

Sister previously ministered as a high school teacher in the dioceses of Pittsburgh and Altoona-Johnstown, serving at schools that included St. Joseph and St. Canice high schools.

(Sister Maureen passed away on May 11, 2014, just two months after celebrating her Jubilee.)

Sister Maureen Walsh, CSJ

75th Jubilarian

60th Jubilarians

Sisters of St. Joseph who are celebrating their 60th Jubilees are (bottom row, from

left) Sisters Ann Francis Hanley, Anne Celine Mutscheller, Mary Ann Siedlarczyk

and Nancy Hupert; and (top row, from left) Sisters Elizabeth Brown, Dolores Partsch,

Ada McMahon, Patricia Rossi, Norma Zanieski, and Margaret Ann Parrish.

Not pictured is Sister Rose Marie Vogel.


As a child, Sister Teresa Katherine Cheslock recognized that she had a special relationship with God – one that she shared in her home, and later, in classrooms and parishes.

Characterized by her deep spirituality, Sister Teresa Katherine spent several years as a member of a contemplative order (Carmelites) before entering the Sisters of St. Joseph in 1964. She began ministry as a teacher at Fontbonne Academy in Bethel Park with three graduate degrees, including a Ph.D. in Biochemistry.

Affectionately known as “Sister T.K.,” Sister Teresa Katherine has been described as a gifted, caring teacher and inspiring mentor to students who were encouraged to fully develop their gifts.

Sister Teresa Katherine later served for 24 years as a Director of Religious Education at St. Paul (Butler) and Immaculate Conception (Washington, PA). When the Diocese of Pittsburgh asked parishes to implement a “faith revitalization program” in 1989, Sister had already begun several years of groundwork for spiritual renewal at Immaculate Conception, one of the first parishes to respond to the mandate. She tapped into the energy of the Adult Education Committee, organizing more than 30 weekly Bible study and contemplative prayer groups.

Sister now prays and resides at Villa St. Joseph.

Sister Teresa Katherine Cheslock, CSJ

50th Jubilarian

Sister Carolyn Bodenschatz believes the community’s charism was alive in her even before she became a Sister.

“I was always fascinated with the interconnectedness of people, families, nature and all of creation,” she says. “After entering the Congregation, I learned that our charism is gift for the church and the world that calls us into loving relationship and union with God, our dear neighbors and ourselves.”

For nearly 40 years, Sister Carolyn has shared that gift of charism in spiritual direction and retreat ministry in the dioceses of Pittsburgh, Greensburg, Wheeling-Charleston (WV) and Columbus (OH). She previously served as a teacher and principal, Director of Religious Education and pastoral minister as well as a member of the Congregation’s Leadership and Formation Teams.

Described as a “reflective listener” who is compassionate and engaged, Sister Carolyn says the Sisters of St. Joseph at Bishop Carroll High School most influenced her to enter religious life.

“There is always a deep desire within me for all to be one, to be in communion, in loving relationship. I am very grateful for my family, friends, all those with whom I have ministered and all those who have shared this journey with me.”

Sister Carolyn Bodenschatz, CSJ

50th Jubilarian

For 46 years, Sister Jean Stoltz has encouraged compassion and joyful spirituality among her students.

She strives to be present and sensitive to students at St. Alexis School (Wexford), where she has ministered since 2009. She brings the Congregation’s charism of unity into the classroom by incorporating foreign languages and cultural understanding into lessons that help students “grow in acceptance and compassion for one another.”

Sister Jean previously ministered as a teacher at Mount Gallitzin Academy, St. Francis Academy, Bishop Canevin High School, Fontbonne Academy, St. Joseph High School (Natrona), and St. Raphael. Known for her kind and generous manner, Sister Jean says the Sisters of St. Joseph who taught her in high school significantly influenced her.

“I admired their spirituality, dedication and deep care and compassion for others.”

She says the most satisfying part of religious life has been the opportunity to grow in relationship with other Sisters of St. Joseph, especially those with whom she has lived or ministered.

“Our Sisters’ deep love of God, their joyful spirit and their dedication to God’s people have touched me deeply. Their support has been a great resource of help and encouragement in my life in community and in my ministry.”

Sister Jean Stoltz, CSJ

50th Jubilarian

Sister Paula Drass recalls “falling in love” with God at a very young age, and is grateful that God continues to be the center of her life.

Unassuming and “still on fire with God,” Sister Paula, who is on staff at the Pneuma Institute, has been a spiritual/ retreat director since 1975 when she began directing 30-day retreats.

Formerly on the Leadership Team, Sister Paula has worked extensively with the Associates and Federations of the Sisters of St. Joseph. She also has ministered as a guidance counselor, teacher, principal and Novice Director.

“Our charism is union – neighbor with neighbor and neighbor with God. I really love having conversations with folks . . . and experiencing them coming to know their own goodness and holiness.”

Growing up in a family of six sisters and a brother, Sister Paula learned to share, pray and love. Her “relationship with God” most influenced her to enter religious life. While in high school in Altoona, she connected with the Sisters of St. Joseph.

“I love being a Sister of St. Joseph . . . I left home for a life with God . . . I could not take my eyes or heart off my goal.”

Sister Paula Drass, CSJ

50th Jubilarian


Whether serving in a classroom or a hospital, Sister Carol Ann Ziecina encourages others to embrace the profound love of God in their daily routine.

Since 2011, Sister Carol Ann has tended to hospital patients and staff as Coordinator for Spiritual Care at Conemaugh Health System in Johnstown, PA. During weekly prayer services, she reminds hospital staff to shift their focus “from self to others in word and in action.”

As a child, Sister Carol Ann prayed to be called to a vocation as a Sister because religious life was all she ever wanted. That led to three decades of nurturing the faith foundation of students. She served primarily as a principal at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary (Miami), Santa Fe Catholic High School (Lakeland, FL), Transfiguration (Monongahela City) and St. Benedict (Johnstown). She also ministered as a teacher and librarian at Quigley Catholic High School (Baden).

Known as thoughtful and reflective, Sister Carol Ann says that her life has been a gift, made worthwhile by each experience of love and struggle.

“I live in awe of a God who has gifted me with this love and grace, and enabled me to share that with others.”

Sister Carol Ann Ziecina, CSJ

50th Jubilarian

Congratulations and welcome to our new Associates – Patty Aleci and Maria Parr – who were installed during the CSJA Annual Retreat in April. From left are Associate Dotty Kocur-Buccilli (Patty’s sponsor); Patty; Maria; and Sister Rosanne Gaul (Maria’s sponsor).

During the St. Joseph Day celebration, Natalie Foley, Lena Eggleston and Sharon Pearson were honored for their 25-year membership in the CSJ Association.

The Association is a group of approximately 100 women and men who are called to embrace the Sisters of St. Joseph charism, or spirit, of unity and reconciliation. They strive to live this spirit in their families, workplace, church and community.

For more information about the Associates, visit our website at www.stjoseph-baden.org, click on “Partner with Us” and then “Associates.”

Associates Celebrate 25th AnniversariesSave these datesBeaver County Anti Human Trafficking Coalition Forum

For the protection of our youth, join the

Sisters of St. Joseph to hear the words and

wisdom of Holly Austin Smith, human

trafficking survivor, advocate and author of

the recent book, “Walking Prey.”

Year of Consecrated Life: Wake up the World Prayer for Prophetic Witness to Love

Ever gracious God, open my mind and heart to your prophets of old and in our world today.

Awaken in me the desire to give witness to the love Jesus modeled in word and deed.

In response to the cries of the poor, gift me with compassion. Guide me to act justly and to love tenderly those in need.

In response to war and conflict, lead me in your ways of peace. Enliven in me the desire to live non-violently.

In response to the negative effects of global climate change, Direct me in my care for your creatures.

Assist me to be ever mindful that all of creation lives and moves And has its being in You, the God of boundless love.

This I ask in Jesus’ name. Amen

- Anne Clifford, CSJ

Enrich your SpiritualityThe 2014-15 program schedule for St. Joseph Spirituality Center is now available on our website. Programs are offered in the following areas:

• Retreats • Days of Prayer • Family Spirituality • Healing Experiences • Faith Formation Classes • Professional Workshops • Youth Spirituality Programs • Vocation Programs • Parish Programs

For a complete list, visit our website at www.stjoseph-baden.org and click on “Spirituality and Prayer” and then St. Joseph Spirituality Center.

October 12, 20146:30 to 8:00 p.m.Location: First Presbyterian Church, 252 College Ave., Beaver, PAFor: parents, children and youth, church youth directors

October 13, 2014Forum 1: 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Forum 2: 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.Location: Community College of Beaver County, Health Science Center AuditoriumFor: teachers and school district personnel

October 14, 20148:30 to 11:30 a.m.Location: Community College of Beaver County, Health Science Center AuditoriumFor: law enforcement, social service professionals and medical personnel

To register, call Sister Jeanette Bussen, Coordinator of Justice and Peace Ministry for the Sisters of St. Joseph, at 724-869-6521 or by email at [email protected].

To learn more about the anti-human trafficking coalition, visitwww.bcantihumantraffickingcoalition.weebly.com.


As part of our mission, the Sisters of St. Joseph are attuned to how all of creation lives and moves and has its being

in God. They commit themselves to conserving resources and living in sustainable ways, especially when caring for our 88 acres in

Baden. Coordinated by Sister Lyn Szymkiewicz, the Earth Tones ministry is a tangible expression of the Congregation’s

reverence for Earth by encouraging an understanding and awareness of God and nature.

Chickens for Change

Seven hens were added to the ecosystem on the Motherhouse grounds this year. Though the hens are as free-range as possible, they also have an enclosed area near Twin Trinity Garden, which

provides fresh produce for the Congregation. Made-to-order eggs are served to Sisters and guests in our

dining room and extra eggs are available for purchase. In the future, extra eggs will be donated to offer a high-quality

source of protein to local food banks and soup kitchens.

Bees for Beauty

In the tradition of the working farm and apiary that the Sisters operated on the grounds in the early 1900s, two beehives were added to the Motherhouse grounds in 2005. Today, 11 hives are tended on the property. During a good year, close to 100 pounds of honey per hive are harvested. The honey is used in the Motherhouse dining room and sold in our Book Nook gift shop. The remaining beeswax is used to make all natural moisturizing cream, soap and lip balm also sold in the gift shop.

Gardens for Good

Two 2,500-square-foot gardens, known as Miriam’s and Elizabeth’s Gardens, were created on the Motherhouse grounds and opened to the public in an effort to address food security issues in Beaver County. In the past three years, participants and the Sisters have donated more than 2,000 pounds of fresh produce to local food banks and soup kitchens. Sixteen different individuals or family units from five boroughs or townships have tended garden beds.

Green Teens, a component of the community gardens, trains youth in sustainable gardening skills and encourages and empowers teens to develop a relationship with Earth and one another in community while addressing a major social need – hunger. The program, which has five alumni, fills a need for summer employment among youth in Beaver County and has helped us maintain the beauty of our grounds.

✛ creation

Ttending to our landThrough Earth Tones, we share nature’s gifts


Sister Carol has served as the principal at St. Bernadette for 32 years. She previously ministered as a teacher at several schools in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, including St. Bernadette, Annunciation in Pittsburgh and St. Titus in Aliquippa.

In 2006, Sister Carol and long-time friend, Sister Margery Kundar, former principal of St. Benedict the Moor in Pittsburgh, were both honored as recipients of the annual Golden Apple Award. The Diocesan award, which recognizes educators who are dedicated to making a positive impact on their students, symbolizes excellent performance by teachers and principals in their school, church and community.

While reflecting on her 55 years as an elementary teacher and principal, Sister Carol said, “I have tried to instill in my students and staff how important it is to care for one another, to respect one another, and to always strive for unity in our school community.”

There hasn’t been a day without a special story or event that brings her joy, Sister Carol said during her 50th Jubilee celebration in 2006.

“Not that all days are perfect, but I hold onto the fun, happy and positive things that occur,” she said.

Surely, this Very Important Principal can hold onto another special (and surprising) day!

principal’s favorite songs. As the students sang “Because (we) knew you, (we) have been changed for good,” Sister Carol sang along, acknowledging that she shares their sentiments.

Sister Carol expressed her deep gratitude to the choir and accompanying band members, the student body who filled the bleachers, as well as the staff, parents and representatives from the AIU.

Dr. Denise Morelli, Director of the Non-Public Schools Program at the AIU, and Kathleen Carnicella, Supervisor of Remedial Reading and Math Services at the AIU, presented Sister Carol with the award plaque.

Edward Lang, an AIU counselor, and Lisa Mehalic, an AIU reading/math teacher, nominated Sister Carol for the recognition. Both work with the students and staff at St. Bernadette. In their nomination letter, they described her as a “strong advocate for children” who is “involved in every aspect of St. Bernadette School and makes herself available in her leadership role every hour of the day throughout the year.”

In part, they wrote: “Sister Carol leads by example and routine. She provides a strong structured program where outcomes are predictable and proven . . . She embraces every aspect and utilizes every service available through the non-public school program . . . because of her belief in servicing the needs of every child and her commitment to their families.”

Hhonoring her leadership

✛ education

Students, staff surprise ‘Very Important Principal’

Unbeknownst to Sister Carol Arch, her morning was

carefully orchestrated behind the scenes.

The long-time principal of St. Bernadette School

in Monroeville was invited to attend

Liturgy where the first-graders were to “sign” the Our

Father. She was then called to an unexpected budget session, and, finally, hurried into the gymnasium for a water emergency.

Instead of a flooded gym, a befuddled Sister Carol was greeted by applause and hugs, balloons and bouquets, and spontaneous chants of “we love you” from students.

Sister Carol, clearly surprised and deeply moved, had just learned on April 16 that she was selected as the

2013-14 “Very Important Principal” by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit’s Non-Public Schools Program. The award is given annually to a principal who has served children with exceptional professionalism and dedication, shown outstanding leadership and support to the school faculty and families, and demonstrated support for the AIU’s non-public schools program.

“I was certainly surprised and overcome with emotions when I realized all that was done by those present to honor me,” said Sister Carol following the celebration.

“Our school is great because of the super children who attend St. Bernadette School, the wonderful staff and teachers who work with me to help our children, and the parents who sacrifice to send their precious ones to us. They all are VIP’s for which I am grateful!”

The school’s Cantor Choir serenaded Sister Carol with “For Good,” a selection from the musical, “Wicked,” and one of the


PSister Sue mixes artistry with ‘story bowls’

preserving the past

✛ story-telling

For 17 years, Sister Sue Clay, an addiction specialist at Holy Family Institute, listened to heart-breaking and painful stories: the 10-year-old who injected heroin, the homeless mother who gave birth to a crack-cocaine baby, the businessman who lost his job because of alcoholism, and many others.

Opening up to tell their stories was a critical part of the recovery process and often helped create a springboard to a more hopeful future, says Sister Sue. With some clients, she would introduce art into therapy sessions, prompting them to paint or draw about their emotions or experiences.

As Sister Sue transitioned out of her long-time ministry, she started to experiment with a new way to creatively blend her interest in story-telling and art by making Story Bowls. The hand-crafted, personalized wooden bowls are designed to mark milestones of one’s life in a story format. Each is custom-made by Sister Sue who sells the Story Bowls, mostly as gifts, for special occasions, such as weddings, births/baptisms, graduations, birthdays, or anniversaries.

Once the story teller and Sister Sue agree on the final text for the story, Sister Sue selects a bowl from her inventory. Just as each person’s story is unique, each bowl is uniquely defined by its characteristics. Sister Sue carefully studies the flow of the grain as well as knots and markings and visualizes how they might enhance the story line. She then “pencils” the story onto the bowl in beautiful lettering that moves in harmony with the grain of

the wood. With an eye for perfection, Sister Sue may do several pencil drafts before she applies the final lettering with permanent marker. That is followed by several coats of lacquer to seal the Story Bowl.

“I love talking to people and hearing their stories,” says Sister Sue. “Our stories represent who we are, our journeys, and our interconnected to others. Sadly, we live in an instant and disposable society. That makes it even more important that we preserve our stories, and hand them down to younger generations.”

Making the Story Bowls provides Sister Sue with sacred space and time for personal prayer and reflection. “There’s something about wood that makes me feel the presence of God and see the imagery of Joseph the Carpenter. It’s a healing and calming experience.”

Sister Sue’s first “story” was actually crafted on a walking stick made from a tree branch – not a bowl – and was presented to Sister Janet Mock, when she served as Superior of the Congregation. Sister Sue was inspired by a Native

American legend that refers to a “talking stick,” which was used during council gatherings. Each member of the council presented his “sacred point of view” while taking turns holding the stick. The elaborately adorned sticks were used to tell stories, settle disputes or conduct a ceremony.

In addition to the personalized Story Bowls, Sister Sue also creates smaller bowls with short messages drawn from Scripture, poetry or favorite quotations.

As a young girl, Sister Sue developed a fascination with wood - the texture, the color, the smell and the grain. She was surrounded by wood-working projects while growing up in St. Louis, Missouri. Her grandfather was a carpenter and plasterer by trade, and her parents collected and restored antiques. They passed along their skills and creativity to Sister Sue who continues the family tradition, particularly in wood refinishing.

From her family, Sister Sue also learned to “keep the old by preserving the past” and

to appreciate the beauty of creation. The community house that Sister Sue shares with two other Sisters is situated on the fringes of 88 acres that nurture more than 50 varieties of trees that help tell the stories of the Sisters of St. Joseph and their reverence for the land.

If you are interested in purchasing a customized Story Bowl, please contact Sister Sue Clay by email at [email protected] or by phone at 412-480-9586. Proceeds from the sale of Story Bowls help support the retired Sisters and ministries of the Sisters of St. Joseph.

Sister Sue recently made this bowl to celebrate a newborn. In part, it reads: “Your first breath took ours away . . . when they placed you in our arms you slipped into our hearts.”


Do you shop on Amazon?Ddear friends,

✛ development letter

In loving memorySister Maureen Walsh, 94May 11, 2014

Sister Gemma Godeck, 99May 2, 2014

Sister Rosemarie Fitzpatrick, 82February 7, 2014

To read or share memories of our Sisters, or to make a memorial contribution,please visit our website atwww.stjoseph-baden.org and click on the “In Loving Memory” link.

page 23

Sister Karen Stoila, CSJDirector of [email protected]

St. Ignatius Loyola challenged all of his Jesuit followers to live “the magis” – a Latin word translated as greater or more. They were to be more, give more, serve more, pray more – all to increase the honor and glory given to God.

In elementary and high schools, Sisters of St. Joseph had us print the letters AMDG at the top of our papers. (Other orders typically had students print JMJ for Jesus, Mary and Joseph.) AMDG represents the motto of our Congregation: Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam - for the greater glory of God. The phrase reflects the Jesuit roots of our spirituality.

One Jesuit publication interpreted live the “magis” as “live life fully.” Surely, this is to what each heart aspires. We ponder: what is it that gives us the opportunity to live life fully, and what prevents that from happening in our lives?

For our Sisters and Associates, living life fully is to experience God’s great Love, and to respond to that Love by continually responding to the needs of our brothers and sisters, locally and globally: serving all realms of human life, with a special care for the poor.

The generosity of 3,189 donors over the past fiscal year has enabled the Sisters to experience the goodness of God through the goodness of each of you. You have given us the joy of being able to live life fully as each Sister does what she can each day to bring God’s kindness and beauty, peace and light into the lives of those she meets.

You have helped us to do more than we could possibly do with our own resources. We thank you for the ways that we have benefited from your willingness to do more for God and for us. So many donors responded with a “more than usual” gift when we sent out an appeal to replace our boilers. That work has begun and we have raised 79 percent of the total cost. Thanks to the diligence of Joe Thompson, Director of Operations, the anticipated cost of this project has been reduced significantly. We would be grateful for any additional gifts to help us meet the remaining 21 percent of our goal.

We thank our God at every remembrance of you.

If so, you can support our Sisters and their ministries. Select Sisters of St. Joseph as your Amazon Smile Charity and Amazon will donate 0.5 percent of the price of your purchase to our Congregation. It’s a simple process.

Here's how you can help:

• Visit smile.amazon.com and log in to your Amazon account or create a new account.

• Search and select Sisters of St. Joseph. It will specify that we are in Baden, PA.

• When you want to shop on Amazon, shop through the smile.amazon.com link, which offers the same products as Amazon and is accessible on mobile devices.

The Colonna-Rossi family gathered to celebrate Matilda Colonna’s

birthday during the 52nd Annual Auxiliary Spring Luncheon Benefit held

on May 17 at the Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport. Our

Auxiliary welcomed 373 guests and raised a total of $51,000, including

proceeds from the Big 4 Raffle held in conjunction with the luncheon.

We invite you to join us next year on May 16, 2015 at the same location.

(Please note the date has changed from what was announced at the

luncheon.)

Sisters of St. Joseph / fall 2014page 24

Dear Sisters,

I am so sorry to hear about your heating problems. I know that it is extremely costly to repair/replace furnaces. I hope that in some small way this (gift) helps.

I have worked with Sisters of St. Joseph for many years at St. John the Evangelist Grade School in Uniontown, Pa. I have attended retreats and other activities at Baden. What a beautiful, warm and welcoming place!

St. Joseph Sisters are the most hospitable, kind, loving and welcoming congregation that I have had the pleasure of meeting. They have a way of making you feel like “an old friend.”

God bless you as you continue to share the Good News. May He bring you strength and financial resources to carry on your work. Please know how much you are appreciated, and how important your work is.

In grateful appreciation and love,

Chris Rozak

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PaidPittsburgh, PA.

Permit No. 46751020 State Street • Baden, PA 15005

notes from our neighbors

Dear Neighbor Fall 2014

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