HOPE Vol. 2 No. 3 summer 2007
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A magazine dedicated to sharing the mission, spirituality and ministries of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana. Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.-- Thomas Merton, Trappist monk (1915-1968)Sister Marianne McGriffin painted this icon of the annunciation. See story on page 13.The Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore GuerinFor information about Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, contact the Office of the Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, Providence Hall, 1 Sisters of Providence, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, IN 47876-1095 or 812-535-2925 or mtighe@spsmw.org.2HOPE // SUMMER 2007HOPEwithin FeaturesVocations updateIts all about the journeyVolume 2, No. 3 summer 2007Executive Editor: Sister Rosemary Schmalz Editors: Sister Ann Casper and Diane Weidenbenner Copy Editor: Sister Cordelia Moran Publication Manager/Designer: Connie McCammon Cover Designer: Kim Harmless Director, Providence Center: Brother Barry Donaghue, cfc Coordinator, Spiritual Programs, National Shrine of Our Lady of Providence: Sister Mary Roger Madden Editorial Board: Cheryl Casselman, Dave Cox, Sue Heck, Becky Igo, Sister Jeanne Knoerle, Sister Bernice Kuper, Sister Peggy Lynch, Rosie Blankenship Maynard, Sandy Scroggins and Sister Joan Zlogar Contact Information: Office of Congregational Advancement, 1 Sisters of Providence, Saint Mary of the Woods, IN 47876 For change of address: cdavis@spsmw.org or 812-535-2804 Web Address: www.SistersofProvidence.org Printed on recycled paper7Celebrating 100 yearsPage 88Church of the Immaculate ConceptionCover storySister Jody paints bold strokes10Providence spiritualitySister Marianne prays with clay13Art auctionPage 1018Share the historyDepartmentsPartners in our mission My heart watches Photo album Sustainable LivingPage 184 7 17 19 20 21 22 23Alumnae/i news Newsnotes Obituaries Upcoming eventsMission Statement:The purpose of HOPE is to extend the energy and power of Providence to our friends by sharing information about the mission, spirituality and ministries of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind.On the cover: Sister Jody ONeil, the Congregations artist in residence, works in Roethele Studio on the motherhouse grounds. See story on page 10. On the back: This original artwork by Nathan Harpenau was honored with first place for 8 to 10 year olds in the first Sisters of Providence Youth Art Contest. See story on page 16.www.SistersofProvidence.org3Partners in our missionAPhotos this page: Many of Sister Maurice Schnells paintings included local vegetation and historic motherhouse buildings as these close-up views illustrate.4rt ppreciationStory and photos by Connie McCammon Art, English, physics and motocross racing -- these four areas have made for a very interesting life for Geoff and Josephine Josie Fox. The art, English and physics brought them together. The racing, however, allowed them to bring all their gifts together to create not only a well recognized family business, but also the means to support charitable causes near and dear to their hearts. Growing up an only child in Muncie, Ind., Josie quickly developed an appreciation for art and family history. When her father Emery Long died when she was 7 years old, she became exceptionally close to her mother Margaret (Steinberger) Long, who was a 1922 history graduate from Indiana University. She loved to talk history to me, said Josie, who earned a bachelors degree in English and art at Ball State University, Muncie, Ind., and later a masters degree in art history at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It was at UW-Madison that Josie met Geoff. Part of the history that Margaret shared with Josie included explaining the familys connection to Sister Maurice Schnell (1830-1902), a prolific sister-artist. Sister Maurice, who entered the Congregation of the Sisters of Providence in 1847, was Josies maternal great-great aunt.Continued on page 5HOPE // SUMMER 2007Continued from page 4Josie, however, would keep these family memories in the back of her mind as the responsibilities of raising four children and helping her husband start a new business made demands on her attention. After Geoff completed his PhD in physics at UW-Madison, the family moved to California where Geoff started teaching at Santa Clara University. My husbands hobby, which he discovered and developed while we were in Madison, was to ride a motorcycle off road, said Josie. Geoff took his hobby to new heights when he competed in several motocross events while teaching at Santa Clara. While still teaching, Geoff bought into a motorcycle retail shop that sold both dirt and street bikes. He soon discovered a need for a replacement parts catalog. Using Josies background in art and English, the first catalog was produced at the Fox family kitchen table. Eventually, Geoff left the world of academia, focusing all his energy into his own business. By 1977, Geoff and Josie began to feature more racing apparel in their catalog, a hit with motocross teams and fans alike. Today, Fox Racing, Inc., with its familiar fox-head logo, is known throughout the world not only for its racing apparel but also for its general line of sportswear. Geoff and Josie and their four children as well as more than 400 employees at their Morgan Hill, Calif., facility, keep the business humming. Fortunately, with all this help, Josie is able to pursue some of her other interests. One of these interests is the preservation of historic and artistic works. And this is where theconnection to Sister Maurice is so important. Thanks to Josies love of art, her interest in family history and the Geoff and Josie Fox Family Foundation, four of Sister Maurices paintings will be conserved by Monica Radecki, a paintings conservator from South Bend, Ind. In March, Monica and her assistant, Jeff Antkowiak, took the works of art via a moving van to her studio. Its a very fulfilling, satisfying reaction that I have to extend basic help. When you get into restoration, its a large commitment. You want it to be done right, and when its fully restored, you want it to have a long life under the best of circumstances, said Josie. Art, English, physics and motocross racing -- thank goodness all four came together in the Fox family. These diverse areas and Monicas able hands will ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy Sister Maurice Schnells works of art. HTop photo: The generosity of Josie and Geoff Fox is helping to conserve four treasured paintings of the Congregation. (Submitted photo) Bottom photo: Monica Radecki and Jeff Antkowiak (foreground) prepare one of Sister Maurice Schnells paintings for transport to Monicas art studio in South Bend, Ind.The four works of art to be conserved are Thou Shalt Love the Lord, Wisdom, Seek Ye First and We Exalt. Three of the works appeared in Providence Hall while one was stored in a vault.www.SistersofProvidence.org5Development updates Want to save a stained glass window?Thanks to more than $100,000 from benefactors, the Sisters of Providence have been able to repair several of the 100-year-old stained glass windows in the Church of the Immaculate Conception. The work is being done by Bovard Studio, Inc. in Fairfield, Iowa, whose craftsmen remove the windows panel by panel and take them back to the company for restoration and cleaning. The phased-project began in 2005 and will continue each year -- window by window -- as funds become available and until all 54 windows have been restored to their original beauty. To date, 17 windows most in need of repair have been refurbished. Six gallery windows on the south side of the church and all the windows on the north side are still to be done. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $300,000. If you would like to contribute to this ongoing restoration and preservation project, please use the envelope enclosed in HOPE and mark Stained Glass Windows on the response portion.Thank you, phonathon donors!The results of the 2007 Sisters of Providence Phonathon can only be termed spectacular! As of mid-April, we have received $111,588. Of the 3,084 people contacted, 1,398 people have responded, a response rate of nearly 45 percent. Of the 855 people who made an actual pledge, 716 have paid their pledge, a response rate of nearly 84 percent. Thanks to all of our donors who generated these statistics by their gifts to our phonathon appeal. Certainly the canonization of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin energized our volunteer callers this year (sisters, alumnae/i, candidate-associates and SP staff members) and obviously made a difference in the response of friends whom they called. This years results have been far above any we have ever experienced since our annual phonathon began almost 20 years ago. We offer thanks to all who were involved in any way.Practice your putting -- Hole-y-One Golf Scramble Sept. 21!Golfers have all summer to prepare for the fifth annual Sisters of Providence Hole-y-One Golf Scramble Sept. 21. This years scramble will be held at Idle Creek Golf Course, Terre Haute, with a tee time of 1 p.m. (EDT). Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. with registration beginning at 11 a.m. If you or your organization is interested in playing or being a sponsor, contact Diane Weidenbenner at 812-535-2802 or dweidenb@spsmw.org. Visit www.SistersofProvidence.org for event details. (Photo by Kim Harmless)6HOPE // SUMMER 2007Vocations updateVocations: its all about the journeyStory by Diane Weidenbenner The number of candidates preparing for religious life in the past three years is up 19 percent, according to Vision Vocation Guides Report on Trends in Religious Life. Something exciting is happening, according to Sister Jenny Howard, vocations director for the Sisters of Providence and part of the New Membership Team (NMT). Weve seen an increase in younger women contacting us to explore religious life, said Sister Jenny. Our goal this year is to better understand the needs of the younger generations and to see how the Sisters of Providence charism can engage them in the development of their faith and living out the message of Jesus. These women have a deep desire for prayer, living in community and service to others. While the Sisters of Providence have always encouraged women ages 18-42 who were considering religious life, the Congregation is now specifically looking to meet the needs of Generation X women (born 1965 to 1980) and the Millennium Generation women (born 1979 to 1994) who seek a deeper understanding of their faith. The NMT is not only learning about these womens needs but also trying to find new opportunities to connect. Our emphasis has always been journeying with women. Our task is not just to prepare them for vowed religious life but to help them discern how to best live out their baptismal call -- how to live out their faith, commented Sister Jenny. The team also attends and sponsors many events throughout the year to reach out to women. For women who are in more serious discernment, the NMT sponsors a Come and See weekend each year. We saw an encouraging increase in participation at this years event `Providence Women: Signs of Hope ... Sent to Heal, held April 13-15, said Sister Jenny. Ten women gathered for reflection, prayer and local ministry visitation to learn how each promotes hope and healing among Gods people and creation. At press time, the team was preparing for Make a Difference, a week of prayer and service May 1824. This new event, directed towards women in their 20s and 30s, will include personal and group prayer, reflection and sharing, as well as service to several of the SP ministries throughout Indiana, including eco-justice, adult day care and inner city programs for youth and their families. Another important way that women become sisters is through personal contact with or invitation by a vowed member, family member or friend, asking them if theyve ever considered religious life. We are living in hope-filled times with a seeming resurgence of interest among young women to live out to the fullest their baptismal call and, for some, that means exploring religious life as a means of putting prayer into action. This can open the door to a world of possibilities, said Sister Jenny. HSince Saint Mother Theodores canonization Oct. 15, 2006, a steady stream of favors attributed to her intercession have been sent to Sister Marie Kevin Tighe in the Office of the Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. Marie Chase of Winthrop, Mass., sent this notice of a healing. In September 2006, Marie was diagnosed with lung cancer. Sister Jane Iannoccone, who also attends Maries parish, took a book of names and intentions to Rome for the October 2006 canonization. Maries name and health condition were included. On Nov. 6, 2006, Marie underwent thoracic surgery in Massachusetts and the pathology report stated there was no malignancy.www.SistersofProvidence.org7Church of the Immaculate ConceptionAcentennialcelebrationStory by Connie McCammon A place to worship -- from the moment Saint Mother Theodore Guerin stepped foot on this hallowed ground at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods there has always been a deep-seated desire for a sacred place to honor the Blessed Sacrament. Mother Theodore, however, was not prepared for the primitive log cabin that doubled as a chapel and a residence for the priest. She later wrote about the log chapel in a letter to her superiors in France: The Church! Yes, dear friends, that is the dwelling of the God of the Universe, in comparison with which the stables wherein you shelter your cattle are palaces! The current place of worship for the Congregation began with the laying of the cornerstone of the Church of the Immaculate Conception in 1886. D.A. Bohlen and Son of Indianapolis, architects, completed the Indiana limestone building in 1891, but it took 16 more years before the interior was complete. By June 1892, plastering had been done and the installation of a temporary wooden floor, seats and altars permitted the sisters to worship in the Italian Renaissance style edifice. Ten years later the church became the home of an organ purchased from William Schuelke Church Organ Builder of Milwaukee.By 1902, the General Council, under the leadership of General Superior Mother Mary Cleophas Foley, focused its attention on the interior decoration of the church. Mother Mary Cleophas and General Councilor Sister Mary Alma ODonald visited numerous churches in Europe, gathering many ideas for the church nestled Celebrate with us! in the Woods. Inspired by their travels, the two sisters returned home and Plans are being formulated by soon artisans and craftsmen were employed to transform the church from a the Sisters of Providence and building to a truly sacred place of worship.Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Church of the Immaculate Conception. Tours explaining its architectural and artistic significance, a Eucharistic Liturgy at 11 a.m. and an organ concert midafternoon will begin the year of celebration Oct. 21, 2007. Watch for more details and a calendar of events in the September issue of HOPE.Religious dignitaries, including Bishop Francis Silas Chatard, and guests poured into the church Oct. 23, 1907, when it was consecrated. One of the visiting priests praised the sisters for their many accomplishments, and especially for giving in this splendid edifice, the best they had to God. One hundred years after the laying of the cornerstone, the church underwent a transformation not only to conform with the liturgical norms of the Second Vatican Council, but also to strengthen the floor joists. As with the building of the church, this renovation was accomplished with the monetary assistance of many donors. Those who worship in the Church of the Immaculate Conception have theirSee CHURCH on page 128HOPE // SUMMER 2007To God through artThe Ascension: This painting crosses the ceiling between the nave and the transept. All the paintings in the church were the creations of Polish �migr� Thaddeus von Zukotynski. Stations of the Cross: The stations were created in Munich, Germany, at a cost of $1,800 and were installed in the church even before the sisters could worship there. They were a gift of the Rev. Denis J. McMullen, pastor of St. Mary Church in Richmond, Ind. Holy Family: This stained glass window, created at the Bavarian Art Institute, Munich, Germany, is in the north transept of the church. Presiders chair: Prior to the renovation of the church in 1986, there was a high altar of Carrara marble that rose to 31 feet in height. There was also a communion railing made of Skyros marble. Many pieces, like this presiders chair, were fashioned from the high altar and communion railing. Marble column: The marble used throughout the church came from Italy; Africa; Skyros, Greece; and the United States. The marble for these rose colored pillars was quarried in the state of Georgia. The pillars were a gift of the family of Mother Euphrasie Hinkle, general superior from 1883 to 1889. The resurrected Christ: Triumphing over death, Christ appears to rise from this crucifix to everlasting life. Sculpted by Harry Breen of Champaign, Ill., it was installed in 1991. The organ: Todays organ is the third one that has been used in the church. Made by the Casavant Freres Company of Canada, this organ has approximately 1,700 pipes. Railing: Originally this railing was part of the communion railing. Now it appears around the tabernacle area. It is made of Skyros marble. (Photos by Kim Harmless, Pam Lynch, Amy Miranda and Connie McCammon)www.SistersofProvidence.org9Cover story10HOPE // SUMMER 2007Bold strokesStory by Dave Cox, Photos by Pam LynchPAt left: Sister Jody ONeil works in Roethele Studio on the motherhouse grounds. Page 12: Sister Jodys work emanates from the deepest realms of her soul.www.SistersofProvidence.orgaint more!Sister Jody ONeil would love to follow the advice of her long-time spiritual adviser.Thats his consistent message for me. He said, `I wish you didnt have to worry so much about marketing. Your painting is a gift to the world. Like many self-employed artists, Sister Jody creates artwork for show and sale. She searches for places to display her creations; she does the pricing, hauling and promoting. In addition, she feels the growing pains that artists often feel. Will they like my work? Will they want to spend money for it? Sister Jody has loved art since her elementary school days when she says good teachers started her on the right path. She studied art in college and became an art teacher early in her ministerial life. But to continue, she would need a masters degree. So she let art become a venue for relaxation while she served as a college campus minister for 25 years. After a sabbatical, she prepared a three-year plan to be a self-employed artist, which was accepted by the Sisters of Providence leadership. I found myself painting more than I had in a long time. I really felt that I needed to listen to that, she said. It may not be long before Sister Jodys artwork markets itself. At a recent showing by Indiana artists at the Indiana State Museum in Indianapolis, one patron walked by and said to Sister Jody, Can I just sit in here because there is great energy in this booth. Another patron said to Sister Jody that her paintings were very spiritual.Continued on page 1211Continued from page 11I am intrigued by the unsolicited comments that people make. It really helps shape my path because they are intriguing to me, not what I want to hear necessarily, but what I am surprised with. I think that is part of what Providence means, Sister Jody said. The energy in her paintings comes from a mixture of bold, bright colors and strokes. She also enjoys a variety of media, often mixing more than one to create a final product. I like seeing what color does to other people. At the Indiana State Museum, I was able to stand back and watch people look into the booth as they walked by. When I would see peoples eyes get huge, that was very heartening to me, she said. Sister Jody thrives on the opportunity to let herself become absorbed by her work. But its not all a canvas of roses. When I have difficult times, I try to stay focused on what gives me energy. If I look at the whole picture, I enjoy going to work. I enjoy the creative challenge. I enjoy making new connections. I enjoy the community building that goes with all of this, she said. I also get frustrated at times because the rhythm is different from a regular job, and the income has a different rhythm than a regular paycheck.She also looks to the Congregations foundress, Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, for support. When I get really discouraged, I remember one of my favorite quotes from Mother Theodore. She said `Humble yourself -- that is very good -- but do not yield to discontent. This whole process has taught me a lot about humility. Every day is a new day that brings new revelations and new challenges, Sister Jody said. Even with the challenges, Sister Jody knows her ministry is energy-giving. I experience artistic expression as a spiritual energy that emerges from the deepest realms of the soul. This energy with line and form, both initiates a response and responds to the movement of Creator and creation, she said. It is important for me to be totally creative and see what emerges. To me, the surprise is to create something, look at it, and see whats there. At some point you say, `Here it is, and you just try to be open to what response you get. The response Sister Jody has been receiving recently is paint more! H Note: For a glimpse of some of Sister Jody ONeils work, visit her Web site at www.creationsights.org. To purchase her art, contact her at either 812-5351018 or creationsights@spsmw.org.ChurchContinued from page 8senses awakened. The organ music, paintings, basreliefs, stained glass windows, murals and marble works provide an atmosphere for worship. But only when the church is filled with people does the mystery of the Blessed Sacrament truly come alive. You are always welcome to worship with theSisters of Providence at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods to experience this truly holy site. The sisters invite you to make it part of your travel plans to worship in this magnificent church during its centennial year. H Hours of worship are 11:30 a.m. Monday through Saturday (except funeral masses, special feast and holy days) and 11 a.m. on Sunday.12HOPE // SUMMER 2007Providence spiritualitySister Marianne McGriffin takes a break while painting an icon.The potter and the clayStory and photos by Connie McCammon This word came to Jeremiah from the Lord: Come, go down to the potters house, and there I will let you hear my words. So I went down to the potters house, and there he was working at his wheel. The vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potters hand, and he reworked it into another vessel, as seemed good to him. (Jeremiah 18:1-5) Throughout the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament are various references to clay and pottery, just like this pericope from Jeremiah. In these passages the potter is the one who has the power over what is created, much like God molds the clay of human beings. However, just like a piece of pottery, humans can be broken, chipped, misused and even forgotten. Unlike a piece of pottery, humans can be reshaped through faith, patience, connection with others and a commitment to want to grow and be whole. Just ask Sister Marianne McGriffin. Growing up in Linton, Ind., during the 1920s and 1930s was not always easy. The times were difficult and jobs were not always plentiful for a house painter, as Sister Mariannes father Edward soon discovered. Though life was difficult, his wife Doris saw to it thatContinued on page 14www.SistersofProvidence.org13Continued from page 13the five McGriffin children (a sixth child died in infancy) were educated and taught to respect the teachings of the Catholic Church. On Feb. 2, 1944, Sister Marianne followed in the footsteps of her older sister Regina, now known as Sister Francine, and entered the Congregation. She later received the religious name Sister Trinita Marie. For nearly 25 years, Sister Marianne ministered as a teacher or principal in elementary schools. A change in ministry, however, was on the horizon when she received a masters degree in religious education from the University of Notre Dame in 1971. For the next eight years, Sister Marianne served as the director of religious education in Fort Wayne, Ind., and later in Louisville, Ky. Her overly scheduled life and drive for perfection drained the very life out of her. She was given the opportunity to attend an unstructured sabbatical at Notre Dame. Part of this time was spent getting her life together through clay. I had always wanted to get my hands into clay, said Sister Marianne, who frequently went to the field house to work with clay. The whole process of working with clay is very much like the process of personal development. We are thrown on the wheel of life, shaped, formed, poured water on and put on the shelf to dry.Additionally, Sister Marianne was introduced to Sister Rose Ann Trzil, SSSF, who became her spiritual director and who would later introduce her to imaging. She helped me to get into my inner thoughts, said Sister Marianne. This was really good for me. Renewed by her sabbatical experience, Sister Marianne returned to religious education at St. Vincent Parish, Elkhart, Ind. Continuing to meet with Sister Rose Ann, Sister Marianne delved even more deeply into her spirituality by attending workshops on women in the church. Now she was beginning to learn about the feminine side of God. Then, during a retreat in Louisville, she was asked to take a ball of clay and to play with it to see what would happen. I held it, felt it and scrunched up the clay two or three times, shared Sister Marianne. I realized the clay was taking the shape of a woman. I was becoming more relaxed as I worked with the clay. So many questions that I had were no longer important; some of them got answered and some of them Im still dealing with. Sister Marianne still has the Woman Spirit Waiting piece that came from this meditation. After its creation it was fired in a kiln and glazed. When she returned home, Sister Marianne continued to work with clay and she shared her spiritual journey with the parishioners of St. Vincent. Suddenly there were people who wanted to know more about praying with clay and imaging. Sister Marianne knew that she needed more training and certification to help other people on their faith walk. She entered the extension program of the Shalem Institute of Spiritual Formation then based in Washington, D.C. This program provides a resource to help people plumb the depths of their spirituality. Upon completion of this program and at the age of 65, Sister Marianne was given permission by the Congregation to leave St. Vincent and create a new ministry, Open SPaces, a spiritual formation center in Elkhart. From 1989 to 2004, Sister Marianne offered spirituality classes and workshops, and she visited many churches in the area to share about praying with clay.Continued on page 15Top photo: Sister Marianne created this piece titled Contemplation Bowl. The outside of this bowl is inscribed with these words: The truly contemplative ... is calm; rises after failure; speaks with authority; has courage; and defies gossip. Bottom photo: This piece, titled Alleluia!, was created during a Holy Week Triduum. A representation of Easter Sunday, Sister Marianne describes it: Darkness gives way to brilliance. The light of Christ shines. His spirit lives.14HOPE // SUMMER 2007Continued from page 14Today, Sister Marianne lives at Saint Mary-of-theWoods and still works with clay among other media, including Purchase her creations iconography. During times in Many of Sister Mariannes pother life, Sister tery pieces and iconography Mariannes spirit cards are available at The Gift was broken and Shop at Providence Center at chipped, but she Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. Please visit the shop either in person or searched deeply online at www.provcenter.org. into her own being to find the You may also receive informaGod within her. tion by phone 812-535-2947 or And she has e-mail giftshop@spsmw.org. taught others how Additionally, The Gift Shop has to do the same, copies of Reflections in Clay, a so they, too, how-to-book about praying could become with clay written by Sister Marianne. whole. HFor resources on praying with clay and iconography, please visit www.SistersofProvidence.org and click on As seen in our publications link.Want to learn from Sister Marianne?If you or your group or organization would like to learn how to pray with clay or to have a presentation on iconography, please contact Sister Marianne McGriffin at 812-535-3131 or e-mail at mmcgriff@spsmw.org.www.SistersofProvidence.org15Youth art contestArt contest impacts students, teachersStory and photo by Becky Igo The first Sisters of Providence Youth Art Contest not only made an impact on the students who participated, but on their teachers as well. The contest, focusing on youth ages 5-18 in the Terre Haute area, sought original drawings of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. Not only were youth asked to depict Saint Mother Theodore in their own artistic renderings, but they were also asked to do research on Indianas first saint. Maria Nickels, an art teacher at St. Patrick School, said the school was excited to participate in the contest. According to Nickels, The contest gave the students the chance to learn about an actual saint from our area. Students also learned about drawing, shading and perspectives of faces. Each student took the contest very seriously; putting their heart and soul into their pictures. The students were very proud of their completed artwork. Every picture was unique and touching to view. Judges selected first-, second- and third-place winners in each age category. Winners, in each category (ages 5-7, 8-10, 11-13 and 14-18), were honored at a reception March 19 at Providence Center and each received a cash prize, ribbon and a certificate. Each student who entered received a Certificate of Participation and those who attended were also honored at the reception.At left: Winners of the youth art contest are (seated, from left) Erin Pfister, Claire Mitchell, Torrence Brannon-Fagg, Nathan Harpenau, Alexis K. Hux and Allison Payonk, and (back row, from left) Katie Schmidt, Caitlin Mitchell, Hailey Chrzanowski, Jack Jenkins, Amanda Humphrey and Taelor Ford.16HOPE // SUMMER 2007Photo albumSister Deborah re-enters CongregationAfter an 18-year hiatus, Sister Deborah Campbell was readmitted to the Congregation Jan. 23 during a blessing ceremony in the Church of the Immaculate Conception at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. After leaving the Congregation in 1989, Sister Deborah worked as an accountant and auditor and taught religious education. During her reincorporation into the Congregation, Sister Deborah will visit various Sisters of Providence ministries. She will also have time for prayer, reflection, spiritual direction and a retreat. Pictured at right is Sister Deborah (right) who was blessed by the entire assembly including (left to right): Vocations Director Sister Jenny Howard, General Officer Sister Marsha Speth, General Superior Sister Denise Wilkinson and the Rev. Bernard Head. (Photo by Kim Harmless)Liturgy honors Saint Mother TheodoreSister Marie Kevin Tighe, former vice postulator of the Cause of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, presents the offertory gifts to Archbishop Daniel M. Buechlein, OSB, archbishop of Indianapolis, during the Eucharistic Liturgy in honor of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin March 5 in the Church of the Immaculate Conception. Concelebrating with the archbishop were the Most Rev. William L. Higi, bishop of Lafayette; the Most Rev. John M. DArcy, bishop of Fort Wayne-South Bend; the Most Rev. Gerald A. Gettelfinger, bishop of Evansville; and the Most Rev. Dale J. Melczek, bishop of Gary. The Liturgy was part of an annual meeting of Indianas bishops and major superiors of congregations of men and women religious. (Photo by Kim Harmless)Providence Candidate-Associates experience first retreatEarle Harvey and Ann Kevin Thesing are just two of the candidateassociates who traveled from near and far to participate in the first Providence Candidate-Associate retreat at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods March 23-25. The first time for many of the retreatants to get acquainted with one another, the retreat offered opportunities for communal and individual prayer, reflection and participation in liturgy. The 42 participants also heard presentations on the life and mission of the Congregation; seeing through the lens of Providence; and right relationship with Earth and the Cosmos. If you are interested in becoming a Providence Associate, this years application process is open until June 30. Please contact Sister Mary Alice Zander, director of Providence Associates, at either 773-539-1578 or mazander@spsmw.org. (Photo by Connie McCammon)www.SistersofProvidence.org17Art auctionArt auction:share the Congregationshistory of art and beautyStory by Diane Weidenbenner You only have to visit the motherhouse grounds at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods to recognize the Congregations long-standing appreciation of beauty. Whether its the natural landscaping, the building architecture or the art that is found within, the sisters have always shared this beauty with visitors. The 2007 Sisters of Providence and Saint Maryof-the-Woods College Auction, Aug. 9-12, will give everyone a unique opportunity to own a part of this ongoing tradition, through this offering of antiques, collectibles, art and furnishings. Although not the first auction, the quality and magnitude of the items offered, in partnership with the college, makes this event significant. The idea for the auction began because we have pieces of art, historically significant to us, that over the years have deteriorated. We wanted to restore them but its costly. So, we decided to sell some of the pieces less significant to us and use the money for restoration, said General Officer Sister Paula Damiano. Many of the items were given to the Congregation; some were purchased years ago. We have a very good Archives and if there is anything in the records stating that the item was never to be sold, then it wont be sold, said Sister Jeanne Knoerle, executive director of residential life and services. We love and treasure the things we have. However, there are many items that we cant show because we do not have room and as a result they are in a vault or in a closet. That seems like a waste, and we would like others to be able to enjoy them, added Sister Jeanne. One of the most exciting auction pieces is a 1922 oil-on-canvas landscape painting by T.C. Steele in a gold leaf frame measuring 30 inches by 40 inches. He was a greatContinued on page 19Photo this page: One of the highlights of the auction will be this Brown County landscape painting by Indiana artist T.C. Steele. (Submitted photo)18HOPE // SUMMER 2007Continued from page 18Indiana artist (1847-1926) and so its going to be very interesting to see how people react to the possibility of owning that piece, said Sister Jeanne. There are some very beautiful paintings in the auction that arent painted by famous artists. However, I think people will respond to them because of their beauty rather than because they have famous names on them, added Sister Jeanne. The auction items are as various as the imagination: pottery and statues, books including fore-edge, collection of letters in their original stamped envelope from the Civil War period documenting Harpers Ferry, a nun doll collection, antique furniture, religious medals, barrister bookcases and much more. Depending on the money raised from the auction, the Congregation is considering restoring several historical treasures. The portrait of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, painted in France and currently hanging in Providence Hall Parlor, is one wed like to restore because of its very great importance in our history, said Sister Jeanne. And the painting of the Blessed Mother in Providence Hall, `Our Lady of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, painted by Zukotynski, the artist who painted the murals in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, is also one among others that we hope to restore. The auction process has helped the Sisters ofProvidence re-evaluate those items that are significant to them and has renewed their enthusiasm for preserving them. Through the years, general superiors have really had an appreciation of art and were grateful for that. In our research, we found correspondence between them and various artists, sometimes commissioning several works of art, said Sister Paula. She concluded, We hope people will come visit the grounds because the auction will be enjoyable, and it will give them an opportunity to see art and historical pieces that they havent seen before. With the canonization, the public learned about Saint Mother Theodore and shared in her historical significance in Terre Haute and Indiana. Now they can share in the Congregations history of art and beauty. The Sisters of Providence and Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College have been working with Robert J. Brown Appraisal Services, Indianapolis, to bring you this once in a life-time event. Please see www.rjbappraisals.com for continuing auction updates. HPhoto this page: Fifty-one letters written from Private Horace Ball to Lewis F. Ball, in their original stamped envelopes, are part of the items to be auctioned. These letters recount events surrounding Harpers Ferry during the Civil War. (Photo by Diane Weidenbenner)By Sister Ann Sullivan, director of White Violet Center for Eco-Justice The art of agriculture is more than knowing how to plant a seed. The art is knowing how to read nature and the signs of the growing seasons, understanding the plants and understanding the interaction of sunlight and rain. The grower puts all of those pieces together to have a finished whole thats the best it can be and expresses the best of all the elements. In a sense its like a painting. It has composition, design, color and substance. All of this goes into agriculture. It is important to work with the natural forces, not against them, trying to conquer them. We must allow them to do what they do for a balanced piece of art. To read the full story on the art of agriculture go to www.whiteviolet.org.www.SistersofProvidence.org19Alumnae/i newsEdra Airhart Young, Sister Susan Paweski and Olivia Plascencia Webber (left to right) talk about their schools days in Sisters of Providence schools. (Submitted photo)Thinking about a reunion? Contact Sister Susan!Dear Friends, It has been so heartening to visit with so many of you this past year. I have had the privilege of visiting alumnae/i from our former elementary schools as well as our high schools. One highlight for me was meeting with a classmate of mine from St. Francis Borgia School in Chicago. We spent three hours talking and laughing. And, much to our surprise, we both looked fabulous! I urge you to attend your reunion gatherings. It is a wonderful way to share stories and remember when with friends who do remember. During a recent visit to California, I had lunch with Edra Airhart Young and Olivia Plascencia Webber who are friends from their days at St. Ambrose School in Hollywood. We had much in common since we all attended schools staffed by the Sisters of Providence. It is amazing how the thread of Providence is woven in our lives. If you are thinking about a reunion, please contact me. I may be able to help you with the event. Be sure to check our Web site and click the tab Heritage & Future for listings about alumnae/i events and reunions. Your reunion information can be added so that classmates can contact you. I hope to meet and visit with many more alumnae/i in the future. If you would like to meet, contact me at 773-463-2478 or spaweski@spsmw.org. May you continue to rejoice in the Providence that sustains our lives. In Providence,Sister Susan Paweski, SP Alumnae/i relations manager/major gifts associate20HOPE // SUMMER 2007NewsnotesArchdioceses honor Mother TheodoreSaint Mother Theodore Guerin, canonized Oct. 15, 2006, in Rome by Pope Benedict XVI, has been named the co-patron of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. God gave us Mother Theodore, gave us her life as an example. And this gift calls us to walk in her footsteps, to pass on the heritage that she left for us, said Archbishop Daniel Buechlein, OSB. And yes, some among us surely are called to become consecrated women after her example. All of us are called to be missionaries in our own way. St. Francis Xavier is the other patron saint for the Archdiocese. The Diocese of Lafayette in Indiana also named Saint Mother Theodore as its secondary patron. I urge you to join me in seeking the intercession of our Hoosier saint. Now a patron of our local church, we should have confidence she will take special interest in us and our needs, said Bishop William Higi.executive director/life quality coordinator for the Southern Mutual Help Association. She directs the organizations life quality program, including sustainable agriculture and economic alternatives for traditional fishers. She has more than 25 years of experience in rural community development.Congressman learns about SOAOn Feb. 23 six Terre Haute area women met with Rep. Brad Ellsworth, D-Ind., to solicit his support in closing the School of the Americas (SOA), also known as the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (WHINSEC). The school is located at Fort Benning in Georgia. The group included three Sisters of Providence who were arrested several years ago for crossing the line during the annual demonstration at the SOA: Sisters Adele Beacham, Rita Clare Gerardot and Joann Quinkert. In addition Sister Ann Casper, Margaret Pabst and Rosaline Secrest, who have all participated in the non-violent demonstration at the SOA, also met with the congressman and two of his aides. The congressman, who represents the 8th District, graciously received the group and was open to the information regarding the SOA that the group provided him. As a former sheriff, he was especially interested in and even incredulous regarding the experience of the three sisters who had been arrested and jailed. He asked many questions regarding those who support the SOA, as well as those who support its closing. Congressman Ellsworth promised to give careful consideration to the packet of information he was given and possibly would then consider co-signing the McGovern bill to investigate and close the SOA. Rep. James P. McGovern, D-Mass., will be filing legislation in the House of Representatives again this year to close the school. For more information on this topic visit SOA Watch at www.soaw.orgSister Helen receives awardSister Helen Vinton has been honored for her ministry work with the Southern Mutual Help Association in New Iberia, La. Sister Helen recently received an award from the Southern Sustainable Agriculture Working Group (SSAWG) at the organizations 16th annual conference in Louisville, Ky. The honor was bestowed for Sister Helens leadership in founding the 13state organization which has grown in importance and influence over the years. She organized the first SSAWG conference in New Iberia in 1991. There were 90 participants. In 2007, more than 1,300 attended the conference. The state legislature also recognized Sister Helen. The Louisiana House of Representatives offered its heartiest congratulations and commendation to Sister Helen Vinton, SP, Southern Sustainable Agriculture Working Group, Founder 1991. Sister Helen currently ministers as assistantwww.SistersofProvidence.org21Obituaries\n memorySister Dorothy Souligny (formerly Sister Marie Christopher) Sister Dorothy loved Taiwan. Sister Dorothy entered the Congregation July 22, 1956, and ministered in schools in Indiana and Illinois. She spent 21 years serving the people of Taiwan, immersing herself in the culture and language of the people. Feb. 23, 1934-Dec. 12, 2006Sister Julia Shea (formerly Sister Marie Loretta)Sept. 14, 1916-Feb. 20, 2007As a teacher, Sister Julia was organized, fair, thorough, eager, demanding and lively. Entering the Congregation Sept. 15, 1934, Sister Julia ministered in education for more than 40 years in Maryland, Washington, D.C., Massachusetts, Illinois, Indiana and California. She also served as an administrative assistant to the Most Rev. Daniel I. Ryan, Bishop of Springfield, Ill.Sister Mary Carlton (formerly Sister Mary Agatha)June 6, 1926-Feb. 22, 2007Sister Mary went about doing good and healing with her gentle smile and generous helping hands. Sister Mary entered the Congregation Feb. 11, 1948. She taught in Indiana, Illinois, California and Massachusetts. She ministered as a pastoral associate at St. Joseph Parish, Lebanon, Ind., and as an employment training specialist with Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana. During her retirement, she was a faithful volunteer at St. Ann Clinic, Terre Haute, Ind.Sister Joseph Miriam SheehanSept. 3, 1918-March 29, 2007All Sister Joseph Miriams life was lived out in love for God and her neighbor. Sister Joseph Miriam entered the Congregation Aug. 10, 1936. She served in schools in Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Illinois, Indiana and Washington, D.C. She also ministered at the motherhouse in the Infirmary and in the Plant Business Office.To read the entire obituary for a sister, please visit www.SistersofProvidence.org and look for As seen in our publications link.22HOPE // SUMMER 2007Upcoming events:June16 Brunch with an Author Series: Sister Nancy Corcoran, CSJ, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (EDT), White Violet Center for Eco-Justice, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods; $40 per person, $20 students. 20-23 Fiber Frolic Workshop, White Violet Center for Eco-Justice, Saint Mary-of-theWoods; for beginners and near beginners learning spinning, felting, weaving and knitting; $200 per person. Contact Sister Jean Fuqua at 812-535-2932 or jfuqua@spsmw.org by June 6 to register. 30 Golden/Silver Jubilee Celebration, 1:30 p.m. (EDT) Church of the Immaculate Conception, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.July1 First Vows Eucharistic Liturgy, 11 a.m. (EDT) Church of the Immaculate Conception, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. 14 Summer Nature Walk, White Violet Center for Eco-Justice, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, 10 to 11 a.m. (EDT); contact Candace Hack at 812-535-2935 or chack@spsmw.org. 15-21 Earth Plunge for Women Religious, White Violet Center for Eco-Justice, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, registration deadline June 15; contact Sister Maureen Freeman, CSJ, at 812-535-2931 or mfreeman@spsmw.org.AugustAug. 9-12: Sisters of Providence and Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Auction, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. See story page 18. 1-3 2007 Leadership Conference of Women Religious Assembly, Kansas City, Mo., Hyatt Regency. The Congregation will have an exhibit.September8 Brunch with an Author Series: Scott Russell Sanders, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (EDT), White Violet Center for Eco-Justice, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods; $40 per person, $20 students.27-30 National Communicators Network for Women Religious (NCNWR) 13th Annual Conference, Rapid City, S.D., Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn. Congregation staff members will be in attendance. 29 Brunch with an Author Series: Judy Cannato, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (EDT), White Violet Center for Eco-Justice, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods; $40 per person, $20 students.www.SistersofProvidence.org23See story on page 16. (Drawing by Nathan Harpenau)Non-Profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Saint Mary-of-the-WoodsOffice of Congregational Advancement 1 Sisters of Providence Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, IN 47876Indiana 47876 Permit No. 1RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED |
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| Origin: | 2007-05-29 |
| Source: |
http://indianamemory.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/ref/collection/sisters/id/158 |
| Collection: |
Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana |
| Rights: | http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/UND/1.0/ |
| Copyright: |
Copyright Undetermined |
| Subjects: |
Art Art auctions Guerin, Theodore, Saint, 1798-1856 Private art collections Religion Religious architectural elements Religious articles Religious communities Religion |
Further information on this record can be found at its source.
This project is made possible by a grant from the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, administered by the Indiana State Library.