HOPE Vol. 3 No. 1 fall 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. Celebrating 100 years elebratingCelebrate the 100th anniversary of the Church of the Immaculate Conception with the Sisters of Providence. A year of celebration begins Oct. 21 at 11 a.m. (EDT) with a Eucharistic Liturgy. See page 12 for more information.The Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore GuerinAs of Sept. 1, Sister Barbara Doherty began serving in the Office of the Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. She replaced Sister Marie Kevin Tighe, who has served as promoter of Mother Theodores Cause and vice postulator for more than a decade. Sister Barbara may be contacted at 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 bdoherty@spsmw.org.2HOPE // FALL 2007(Photo by Cheryl Casselman)HOPEwithin FeaturesProvidence spiritualityLiving a fruitful vowed lifeVolume 3, No. 1 fall 2007Executive Editor: Sister Rosemary Schmalz Editors: Sister Ann Casper and Diane Weidenbenner Copy Editor: Sister Cordelia Moran Publication Manager/Designer: Connie McCammon Cover Designer: Pam Lynch 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 paper4Cover storyProfessing first vowsPage 66Perpetual vowsPreparing for perpetual vows9100th anniversary12Church of the Immaculate ConceptionPermanent shrinePage 1413for Saint Mother Theodore GuerinMother Theodore statueSculpture comes to life14DepartmentsMy heart watches Partners in our missionPage 165 17 11 20 21 22Photo album Alumnae/i news Newsnotes ObituariesMission 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: Sisters Su-Hsin Huang, Dana Augustin and Patty Wallace (left to right) professed first vows July 1. Learn more about these vows starting on page 4. On the back: There are many artistic treasures in the Church of the Immaculate Conception. Help us celebrate the 100th anniversary of this building Oct. 21. See story on page 12.www.SistersofProvidence.org3Providence spiritualityL4iving a fruitfulvowed lifeBy Sister Bernice Kuper Almighty and eternal God, wishing to consecrate myself to your service, under the special protection of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, of my full and deliberate will, I, Sister N.N., take the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience according to the Constitutions approved by the Holy See for this Congregation of the Sisters of Providence. Grant me, O my God, the grace to be faithful to them until death. Amen. Throughout its 166-year history each Sister of Providence has stood before an assembled faith community and used these words to publicly proclaim her intention to live her life in keeping with these specific gospel values and to work toward furthering the mission of Jesus in the world. What, we might ask, is the gospel value at the heart of each vow and how can it be expressed today in a world characterized by so many relationships distorted by greed for money, sex and power? Since the Second Vatican Council directed religious congregations all over the world to examine and renew every aspect of their lives in order to better meet the needs of the contemporary world, the Sisters of Providence have been asking themselves what would Saint Mother Theodore do if she were here now? How would she live her commitment to her vows of poverty, chastity and obedience? Over the years since the council, we have examined our lives in light of the Gospel, our Constitutions, and the life and mission of our foundress. We have reflected and prayed -- alone and together. We have dialogued with one another and have met in General Chapters to make decisions about how we might better live our lives together and bring new life to our mission. In this process, our vows have taken on new and deeper meanings. We now better understand them not merely as rules to follow but as gospel values to be made an integral part of our lives. Someone has said the vow of poverty might better be named the vow for justice-making because at its heart is the value of helping others who are deprived of receiving their fair share of Gods bounty. The Constitutions of the Sisters of Providence continue to call us to witness to the gospel value of sharing with others, contributing what we earn to aContinued on page 5... the vow of obedience today continues to challenge us to recognize the voiceof the Spirit in legitimate authority.HOPE // FALL 2007Continued from page 4common fund and receiving from that fund what we need for ourselves. Our times also call us to pay attention to the common fund of creation from which we have already taken far more than our share. This contemporary understanding of poverty may ask us to make room in our lives for practices like conserving energy, recycling, changing our driving habits to help reduce greenhouse gasses, patronizing organic farmers markets, or working for systemic change so that this common fund of creation will be available to future generations. A sister professing a vow of chastity in the Congregation today, a vow which she will live out within a celibate community, understands that she commits herself to strive to bring about the reign of God through her efforts to live in right relationship -- with God, herself, others and the whole of creation. She commits herself to find appropriate ways to do this, learning to be more loving, more compassionate in her relationships with others, more willing to forgive and to ask for forgiveness, to work toward reconciliation, to deliberately choose to make non-violence a way of life not only in her manner of thinking, but also in her way of speaking, acting and re-acting in the various relationships of her life. The gospel value at the heart of the vow of obedience is Jesus desire to do always the will of his Father. While in the past we thought following laws and blindly obeying people in authority was an expression of this value, we have come to recognize that it also embraces our responsibility to contribute to informed choices made by our community, to participate in the decision-making that affects our own lives and the lives of others and to integrate into our own lives decisions madeby the community at large. The word obedience comes from a Latin root meaning to listen attentively. While the vow of obedience today continues to challenge us to recognize the voice of the Spirit in legitimate authority, it is not a matter of just blindly obeying the Congregation-elected leaders command. Rather the leader and sister enter into dialogue so that in listening attentively to each others point of view, we may come to recognize where the Spirit is really speaking and thereby arrive at a mutually agreed upon decision. This new understanding of the vow of obedience calls us to really listen to the wisdom of others, to let go of our own preconceived notions, to search for truth no matter where or by whom it is spoken. True obedience calls us to be contemplative, discerning women who recognize the voice of the Holy One speaking from deep within ourselves, in others and in the ordinary events of our lives. Only then will we know how we are called to respond. It is important to recognize that a fruitful vowed life cannot be lived in isolation. We depend on Gods grace and we also need to be part of a loving, supportive and prayerful community. Even though distance often separates us, Sisters of Providence have found many creative ways to stay connected with one another and to make community the reality that Saint Mother Theodore had in mind when she prayed, Grant, O my God, that all who dwell in this house may love thee much, may love one another and may never forget why they came here! H For resources delving deeper into the vows, please visit www.SistersofProvidence.org and click on As seen in our publications link.Since Saint Mother Theodores canonization Oct. 15, 2006, a steady stream of favors attributed to her intercession have been sent to the Office of the Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. Dr. Arnold Kunkler, M.D., formerly of Terre Haute, Ind., and now an Indianapolis resident, sent this notice of a healing. On Oct. 13, 2006, an audiology clinic confirmed Dr. Kunkler had complete loss of hearing in his right ear. While attending the Oct. 22 Foundation Day celebration at Saint Maryof-the-Woods a week after the canonization, Dr. Kunkler told a former pastor he would ask for Mother Theodores help. During Mass, he heard a persistent roaring sound in his right ear. The morning of Oct. 27, he awakened with the full recovery of hearing, which the clinic personnel not only confirmed but termed a dramatic recovery.www.SistersofProvidence.org5Cover storySisters Su-Hsin (pronounced Su-Sheen) Huang, Dana Augustin and Patty Wallace (left to right) professed first vows July 1.Professing first vowsStories by Connie McCammon, Becky Igo and Cheryl Casselman, Photos by Cheryl CasselmanSister Dana Augustin: learning to live with enoughI never had an interest in being a sister, matter-of-factly said Sister Dana Augustin, who hails from Richmond, Ind., and who took first vows July 1. But during a shower one August morning a thought about being a sister popped into her head. Needless to say, she was flipped out. After work she called her pastor, Father Todd Riebe, to make an appointment to talk about this thought. When Sister Dana shared her story with Father Todd, he told her, You might be surprised, but Im not surprised. Father Todd, who once lived in Terre Haute, handed Sister Dana a directory of religious congregations. Before she left his office, he told her that the Sisters of Providence might be a good match for her.Sister Dana ministers as the supervisor of biomass processing. For more information, please visit www.SistersofProvidence. org and look for As seen in our publications link.Looking through that directory, she found the phone number of the Congregations Vocations office. Soon she was registered for a November discernment weekend for women interested in religious life. Yes, she had a few weeks to mull over her decision, but that was just the beginning of her waiting. After her discernment weekend, Sister Dana was anxious to sign up. However, she was told by Sister Jenny Howard, vocation director, that she would need to discern thisContinued on page 76HOPE // FALL 2007Continued from page 6choice for a couple of years. To help her with that decision Sister Mary Catherine Keene was named her discernment guide. Thus, after many months of prayer, conversations and reading, Sister Dana entered the Congregation in September 2004. Now, three years later, her preparations have led her to profess first vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. She realizes that some people may view these vows as restrictive, but she sees them as freeing. Your worldview and your spirituality can be freed by the vows so that they are no longer restrictions, said Sister Dana. Through the study of these vows, Sister Dana is learning to live with what is enough and not to take more than she needs. Shes learning to be true to what she has committed her life to. Lastly, shes learning to listen to what she believes is right. Did these awakenings come easily? No, she has wrestled with these understandings, but she has found peace in her vocation. I know that there are a lot of people out there who want to do good things for the world either in a small, local way or in a global way. In religious life theres a place for all the people, any way they want to serve people or God. Sister Dana continued, What keeps me here is that I know I have more opportunities for personal growth, for service and for my spiritual growth. Im committed to the ministry of Jesus Christ. I do feel that this is probably where I can accomplish that ministry the best.of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. Then, an ad caught her eye and changed her life forever. One day, I read this message about a summer weekend at the Sisters of Providence, Sister SuHsin recalled, while retrieving and unfolding that very same small ad she carries with her to this day. Then, she read the first lines: God is love, mercy and justice. He likes people. He invites you to create the miracle of love. Working in her native Taiwan in a childrens center, Sister Su Hsin helped take care of children who, in some cases, had been abused. Helping people is something Sister Su-Hsins parents instilled in her and her two sisters. My parents are the model for me, she said, especially my father. Her parents influence, along with her pastors guidance, set the tone for the importance of giving of oneself. Sister Su-Hsin thought more about the Sisters of Providence and wanted to know more about the spirituality, so I called them. The first time I went to see them was on Mothers Day. Sister Su-Hsin talked with Sister Marilyn Baker at Providence University in Taiwan, along with Sisters Sophia Chen and Delan Ma. All were so supportive, she said. In 2003, Sister Su-Hsin made her first trip to the United States, coming to Saint Maryof-the-Woods. The experience was an adjustment for her.Continued on page 8Sister Su-Hsin Huang: an advertisement changed her lifeIn 2002, the United States was just as foreign to Sister Su-Hsin Huang as the Sisters of ProvidenceTop photo: Sister Dana Augustin (right) receives a congratulatory hug from General Superior Sister Denise Wilkinson during the Eucharistic Liturgy celebrating her profession of first vows. Bottom photo: Sister Denise Wilkinson (left) prepares to place the religious symbol of the Congregation around the neck of Sister Su-Hsin Huang.www.SistersofProvidence.org7Continued from page 7Going back to Taiwan in January 2004, she believed she probably didnt want to return to the United States. But things have a way of changing. It was always in my mind, she said. The day Sister Su-Hsin decided to become a Sister of Providence is very vivid. I had a dream. On one side of a bridge was my family, saying, `Dont go. I walk to the other side and its like a forest with so many trees. There is this strong light, totally white. When I woke up, I was certain I wanted to continue. Sister Su-Hsin entered the postulancy Sept. 16, 2004, and professed first vows July 1, 2007. Her advice? Listen to your heart and pray, she said, and find someone to be your spiritual companion. Sister Su-Hsin left her country, her family, her home and friends. Although her eyes moisten with tears when she talks of leaving her family, especially her parents, she remains focused on all she has gained. Making the decision to come here is not a sacrifice or giving up something to come here, Sister Su-Hsin explains. That is the choice. I gained a lot. I gained another family, friendships, support and love.from all over the world at conferences and events she has attended during the last two years. Ive been going to the Giving Voice conferences for women religious under age 50. Its life-giving. It gets you all fired up about the future of religious life. Sister Patty grew up in Indianapolis, earned her bachelor of science degree in elementary education at Butler University, then moved to Shreveport, La., with her parents in 1991. It was during those 13 years in Shreveport that she became a childrens librarian in a public library. She continued working with children as a Providence Volunteer Minister (PVM), the lay volunteer program of the Sisters of Providence, in 2002-2003. That experience enabled her to get to know the Sisters of Providence better, she said. Since becoming a Sister of Providence she has become more passionate about making sure children have a wider global view. Ive started to become more passionate about eco-justice, she said. Since joining the community Ive also gotten into issues like children in poverty and situations of violence. As a mission novice last year, Sister Patty was the librarian at the St. Andrew/St. Rita Catholic Academy in Indianapolis. She returned there in August. Its an inner-city school with a lot of single-parent families, she said. Im in a great place for a ministry. Its a challenge. One third-grader comes to mind when she looks back on that first year. When she was in trouble with her teacher she would get sent to the library to spend time with me. She would be crying when she came down and we would sit and talk. I think I helped her through the year. There were moments of hope in everything. HPhoto this page: Sister Patty Wallace (right) kisses the Bible held in the hands of Sister Denise Wilkinson as part of the Rite of Religious Profession.Sister Patty Wallace: Congregation confirms her callingSister Patty Wallace is fired up about the future of religious life. You hear people talk about the diminishing numbers of women religious, but I feel more hope in the future of religious life, she said. First vows is just amazing. I felt the love of the community and all that questioning that existed before was gone, she said. Its overwhelming to feel Gods presence and the confirmation you get from the community. Sister Patty also gets energy from meeting people8HOPE // FALL 2007Perpetual vowsPreparing for perpetual vowsThat awakening gained even further rooting through a spiritual director and a year-long study of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. While she couldnt verbalize it at the time, Sister Janice was beginning to see a call to be in right relationship with others and with Gods creation. Im talking about how we relate to each other and how we are connected to each other in all of our joy, sorrow, hurt, pain and brokenness. That call demands a level of intimacy, not only in a one-on-one relationship, but in a communal way, said Sister Janice. It wasnt just about me, and it wasnt just about my family and me, or it wasnt just about my friends and me, but it was about how I related to the world around me at a larger level. That was the call. After taking a leave of absence from her job and selling her condo, Sister Janice entered the Congregation in the fall of 2000. It wasnt an easy transition. Over the years, she was challenged spiritually, emotionally and theologically. But today, as she prepares for her perpetual vows in 2008, she can now confidently say she has found wholeness in her life. Wholeness, to Sister Janice, is allowing ones baptismal call -- vowed, single or committed relationship -- to flourish. That flourishing includes being in right relationship with others and all of Gods creation. For me, the fullness of my life is best expressed in this lifestyle as a vowed religious. Religious life lets me be me, said Sister Janice.Read Sister Deidre Jordys story on page 10Story and photo by Connie McCammonSister Janice Smith finds wholenessA six-figure salary, a fulfilling job, good friends, a serious relationship, a condo in California and a great extended family -- Sister Janice Smith thought she had it all. Motivated to succeed, Sister Janice soon scratched off several accomplishments from her check list after graduating from her Baltimore high school in 1969. Those items included a bachelors degree, a masters degree and a teaching job. Then in the mid-1980s, she moved to California and landed a lucrative job with Hewlett-Packard. Yes, on the surface, she appeared to have everything. Her spiritual life, however, was almost nonexistent. Due to the strong Catholic tradition in her family, Sister Janice eventually found her way to a parish in Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif., where Sister Barbara Reder served as pastoral associate. Slowly but surely, Sister Barbara encouraged Sister Janice to get more involved in the parish. This involvement included teaching, pastoral care and serving as a sponsor for a person in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). That was a real awakening because the way Sister Barbara presented that program was an adult look at your faith expression, said Sister Janice, who was quickly learning that the faith of her childhood was no longer nurturing to her.www.SistersofProvidence.org9Continued from page 9Sister Deidre Jordy finds her callingSister Deidre Jordy is no stranger to change. Having lived all over California while growing up, attending five different elementary schools, running away from home after high school, joining the military, then landing a career position with IBM all before the age of 22, it might seem that she would never settle down or stick to anything. But, she spent 12 years with IBM and, after nine years in community, looks forward to being able to say that being a Sister of Providence is the thing shes done for the longest period of time in her life. It was during her time as a runaway that her vocation journey might have begun. I like to tell people that the first Sister of Providence I ever met turned me into the police, she said. It was her second encounter with a Sister of Providence, however, that awakened her vocation. As a freshman in college, she was invited to attend a retreat for young adults. The night before her departure, she spent the evening with a friend, reading poetry, drinking wine and solving the problems of the world. I got home late and literally got down on my knees and said, `I need a sense of direction. I want something to happen this weekend to give me that, Sister Deidre remembered. That weekend, she met Sister Paula Damiano. At the end of the retreat, she found Sister Paula packing up and asked if she wanted any help. She asked me to help carry a box to her car and said that she had an idea she wanted to share with me. We were walking to the car when she said, `Why dont you consider being a Sister of Providence? I remembered my prayer from Thursday night and felt like I had heard a voice from a burning bush. `You have got to be kidding, I said. She replied, `Well, no. Im not. I said,`Yeah, right. Ill think about it. But, I couldnt get it out of my head or my heart. Two years later, while on active duty in the U.S. Army, she applied to enter the Sisters of Providence. The community told me to wait and I waited 22 years, she said, laughing. After a series of upheavals and tremendous losses, culminating with the death of her youngest brother, she retreated from the activities that had filled her life -- singing in the parish choir, volunteer work with people with AIDS, playing in a softball league -- and began a year of mourning. I was a mess, but my prayer life flourished. In the midst of it, my soul was fed by praying Psalm 116 which says twice `I will pay my vows to the Lord in the assembly of the people. Conversations with my spiritual director began to turn toward discernment about this longstanding desire, Sister Deidre explained. Eventually, I contacted the vocation director, who happened to be Sister Paula Damiano, and the rest, as they say, is history. Now, as she begins a year of preparation for final vows, she is deeply committed to life as a Sister of Providence. I really want this. Thats the mystery. I just really believe that I am called to this. Its an inexplicable desire. Why I want it is an absolute mystery, she said. Asked about what it means to her to be professing perpetual vows, she replied, The vows bind me to the community. In some ways, they define all my relationships, to the Congregation, to God and to other people, she said. People ask me if Im excited, but that isnt it. Its more amazement. I keep going, `Wow, I am really going to profess perpetual vows with the Sisters of Providence. Ive wanted this all my adult life and now its really going to happen. That just blows me away. H (Photo by Pam Lynch)10HOPE // FALL 2007Photo albumSilver and golden jubilarians celebratePosing for a photo with General Superior Sister Denise Wilkinson (foreground) on steps in Providence Hall prior to the June 30th Eucharistic Liturgy celebrating their golden and silver jubilees are (front row, left to right): Sisters Margaret Kelly, Norene Wu, Marjorie Marge Funke and Mary Catherine Keene; (second row): Sisters Elizabeth Betty Smigla, Carol Meyers and Janet Gilligan; (third row): Sisters Susanne Gallagher, Arlene Knarzer, Sharon Richards and Patricia Pat Mahoney. Sisters Norene and Marge celebrated their silver jubilee. Not pictured is Sister Carol Lindly. (Photo by Pam Lynch)Nine rubies celebrate their entrance dateNine Sisters of Providence celebrated their 1967 entrance date into religious life July 7 during a Eucharistic Liturgy in the Church of the Immaculate Conception. Ruby jubilarians include (front row, left to right): Sisters Marianne Mader, Celeste Tsai, Danielle Sullivan, Paula Damiano, Editha Ben and Jean Kenny; (back row): Sisters Mary Montgomery, Barbara McClelland and Delan Ma. (Photo by Connie McCammon)Several women religious participate in Earth Plunge 2007Sixteen women from six different women religious congregations gathered for Earth Plunge 2007 at Saint Mary-of-theWoods in July for a week of immersion into Earth and to contemplate its impact on their own spirituality. The event was sponsored by White Violet Center for Eco-Justice. One of the focuses of the gathering was enjoying meals made from food grown within 100 miles. Pictured at right, front row from left are: Mary Lou Dolan, CSJ; Mary Louise Basler, CSJ; Denise Wilkinson, SP; JoAnn Geary, CSJ; Kathleen Desautels, SP; and Mary Kay Oosdyke, OP. Second row from left are: Bernice Kuper, SP; Gail Worcelo, SGM; Anita Cleary, OP; Barbara Bluntzer, SP; and Dana Augustin, SP. Third row from left are: Paula Gonzalez, SC; Joann Quinkert, SP; Sue Paweski, SP; Maureen Freeman, CSJ; and then-Sister of Providence postulant Anita Owens. Fourth row from left are: Janet Kuciejczyk, CSJ; Ruth Johnson, SP; Jeannette Filthaut, SP; Kay Manley, SP; Phil McCord; Claire Bouchard, SS.CC; Sharon Zayac, OP; Candace Hack; Paul Bernadette Bounk, CSJ; Barbara Battista, SP; and Rose Ann Eaton, SP. Phil and Sisters Rose Ann, Dana and Paul Bernadette were presenters that day. (Photo by Cheryl Casselman)www.SistersofProvidence.org11100th anniversaryCelebrating churchaspeople and buildingStory by Sister Ann Casper, Photo by Amy Miranda The 100th anniversary of the consecration of the Church of the Immaculate Conception will be a celebration of church as people and church as building. To that end, several events are planned which celebrate both aspects of this significant anniversary. Church as people The anniversary year will open with Eucharistic Liturgy celebrated Oct. 21 at 11 a.m. (EDT), when worshipers will gather in this sacred space as they have for more than 100 years to offer praise and gratitude to God. No doubt, Sisters of Providence in the assembly will be remembering other celebrations in this hallowed spot: ceremonies of entrance into the Congregation; profession of vows; jubilees; gathering for prayer to begin General Chapters, assemblies and the centennial/sesquicentennial years; and assembling for funerals in celebration of the life of countless sister companions.The stained glass windows in the Church of the Immaculate Conception are just one of the many artistic treasures in this holy edifice.Alumnae of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College who gather may recall the processions in academic garb to attend Mass each Sunday, Ring Day celebrations, baccalaureate Mass, prayer services for Senior Night and possibly their own or friends weddings. Others who assemble may reflect on times when they gathered with the sisters for Sunday Liturgy, ecumenical observances or came to pray after 9/11 or assembled for prayerful witness against the death penalty or came just to enjoy the beauty of the church. People will gather at 2:30 p.m. Oct. 21 for a Centenary Concert in the church sponsored by the Wabash Valley Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Selections will include settings of the Veni Creator, Rhapsody of Early American Hymn Tunes and Te Deum. Other events planned in the 100th anniversary year highlighting church as people include: * Advent Concert, Dec. 8 at 7 p.m., presented by Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) Chorale and Madrigals. An invitation has been issued to the Terre HauteContinued on page 1312HOPE // FALL 2007Permanent shrineContinued from page 12Childrens Choir to participate in this concert with the chorale. * SMWC performance of the play, The Quilters, Feb. 22-24 in the Cecilian Auditorium, with prior program notes presented in the church. * SMWC Spring Concert, Sunday, April 20, at 2 p.m. in the church. Church as building Upon first sight of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, people have been heard to exclaim, Its like a cathedral in Europe. And, indeed, the likeness is intentional since it was fashioned after the Church of the Holy Trinity in Paris. Several opportunities will be offered during the centenary year to enjoy an architectural tour of the church and hear about its magnificent paintings,sculptures, stained glass windows and many precious marbles: * Oct. 21, architectural tours will be conducted at 9 a.m. and 9:45 a.m., prior to the 11 a.m. Eucharistic Liturgy. * Tours will be offered after each of the three musical concerts and prior to The Quilters play. * The Sisters of Providence-sponsored Second Annual Youth Art Contest in March will have as its theme the 100th anniversary of the Church of the Immaculate Conception. The public is invited to all events. The Sisters of Providence would be honored by your presence and by your celebrating with them. The Web site, www.SistersofProvidence.org, will be updated periodically with more details; be sure to check it out closer to the time of events. HPlans being made for permanent shrineBy Dave Cox Saint Mother Theodore Guerins remains rest in a simple coffin at a interim shrine in the Church of the Immaculate Conception at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. Sunday Liturgy attendance has increased and pilgrimages continue, indicating that interest in the Sisters of Providence foundress continues. The Congregation has hired the Rev. Mark Joseph Costello, OFMCap, a Capuchin priest from Chicago, who is a specialist in designing interior sacred spaces, to assist in creating the permanent shrine. Also chosen to help form the concept of a permanent shrine for Saint Mother Theodore is John F. Kelley, a partner in the Chicago firm of McBride Kelley Baurer. We need to clarify the mission and purpose of the shrine. We need to know how the shrine is not just a story about the past, but a place of energy for the future, said Sister Marie McCarthy, general officer. Sister Marie said an eight-month time line has been created to allow for full inclusion of the Congregation in the development of the mission and purpose. Many questions need to be answered during the process, such as: How will the shrine be an extension of the mission of the Congregation? What are the specific kinds of ministries that might function out of that? If this is what the Congregation wants it to do, then what needs to be included? Who is the shrine for? If youre talking about Mother Theodore as aSee SHRINE on page 15www.SistersofProvidence.org13Saint Mother Theodore statueSculpturecomes to lifeStory and photos by Becky IgoD14uring the three years artist/sculptor Teresa Clark worked on her model of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, little did she know she, too, would be created anew.This changed about every aspect of my life, she said. Through Mother Theodore, I found a renewed faith, something I had not participated in for many years. I feel I also became more confident in my abilities as an artist, more in touch with myself and gained a little more direction in my life. Teresas life took a new direction in 1999, when representatives of the Catholic Cemetery in Fort Wayne, Ind., asked her to sculpt a statue of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. Then a Fort Wayne resident, Teresa traveled to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods to learn more about its foundress. But the project never materialized and she headed back to Fort Wayne. Then, in 2004, Sister Marie Kevin Tighe called from the Sisters of Providence, saying they wanted a statue sculpted of Mother Theodore which would eventually be placed at Marys Garden at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. Teresa jumped at the opportunity and came, once more, to the Woods. A contract with the Basilica, the sisters and Teresa was signed in February 2005. Each step of the process had to be approved by the Basilicas iconography committee. A 1-foot clay model was created, followed by a 2-foot version. In June 2006, they approved the large one, she said of her final 6-foot clay model. That 6-foot model is now in the Oberlin, Ohio, studio of Nick Fairplay, a well-known master carver. He is carving a limestone version of Teresas work, which is the actual piece to be placed at Marys Garden as early as the spring of 2008. Teresa traveled to Oberlin to meet with Nick. The carver wanted to ensure he was capturing Teresas vision. Their respect for each other and the others work really shines through. My goal is to recreateContinued on page 15HOPE // FALL 2007Continued from page 14the material translation, Nick said. I want to make sure [Teresas] intent is matched. For Teresa, it has been interesting to hear comments about the Mother Theodore piece from observers and admirers. I heard two common threads, she said. People say they love the smile on her face and the movement; its as if she is walking. People seem to sincerely react to her and it makes her a little more real to them. This is what I had hoped for. As the project evolved, so has Teresas life. First, the native of Pioneer, Ohio, now calls Terre Haute, Ind., home. I have liked Terre Haute ever since I moved here and have made a lot of friends, she said. The west-central Indiana location is perfect because her daughter, Rhiannon, and two grandchildren, live close by in Mooresville, Ind., as does her son, Alex, a resident of Plainfield, Ind. Secondly, in 2006, Teresa was baptized a Catholic at St. Margaret Mary Church in Terre Haute. Third, the Saint Mother Theodore statue brought more artisticopportunities, including the possibility of another Mother Theodore project for the Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago. The work would feature an 8-foot rendition of Mother Theodore interacting with children. The possibilities are endless. I never know what the future will bring, whether it will be something more with Mother Theodore or something totally different. This has become a huge part of me, creating an opportunity to begin a whole new stage of my life, Teresa said of her connection with Mother Theodore. I love the sisters dearly and have made a second home here at the Woods. HPage 14 photo: Nick Fairplay does some up close work to the eyes of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. Nick, a master carver, is carving the limestone statue of Saint Mother Theodore. Photo this page: Nick and Teresa Clark pose for a photo with the limestone image of Mother Theodore.ShrineContinued from page 13spirit of this woman and start embodying that in our own lives? she emphasized. Once the discussion and preliminary planning phases come to an end, the Congregation will develop a case statement and begin a formal fund-raising campaign to pay for the shrine. In the end, we will have something really wonderful and alive, Sister Marie said. H If you would like to contribute to the permanent shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, please use the envelope enclosed in HOPE and mark Shrine on the response portion.woman for all times and for all people, then you would have to think cross-culturally and ecumenically. Its not just for an inside group or the Sisters of Providence. Its for people who are searching, Sister Marie said. We hope that people will have a deep experience of Gods presence of grace reflected in this womans life and that its impact will help them with their daily struggles. Wouldnt it be wonderful if all of us and all people really caught thewww.SistersofProvidence.org15Mother Theodore Guerin DinnerDinner honors several friends of the CongregationThe annual Mother Theodore Guerin Dinner June 2 was a time for the Congregation to celebrate the generosity of many people and organizations. This generosity was illustrated through time, talent and treasure. Honored this year were the following. Top left: Rose Steidl of New York was the recipient of the Queen Amelia Award. Her award was accepted by her sister, Sister Martha Steidl (left), following the presentation by General Superior Sister Denise Wilkinson. Top right: General Superior Sister Denise Wilkinson (left) presented the Sisters of Providences Sarah and Joseph Thralls Award to Camille and Art Snyder of Fort Wayne, Ind. Bottom: Dave Patterson (left), executive director of the Terre Haute Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Bill Burdine, past president of the Tourism Commission, listen as Sister Denise Wilkinson presents a special honor to recognize the bureaus outstanding and continuous support in promoting the life and legacy of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin. (Photos by Becky Igo)16HOPE // FALL 2007TPictured below is Therese Maxwell, in her days known as Sister Pauline Therese. (Photo courtesy of Sisters of Providence Archives)www.SistersofProvidence.orgPartners in our missiondaughter of the WoodsStory and photo by Connie McCammon I am a daughter of Mother Theodore with all that implies, said Therese Maxwell, a former Sister of Providence. My foundation in prayer and service began under the tutelage of this womans descendants and is so much a part of me that I cant separate myself from the community. That tutelage began when Therese was a high school student at St. John Academy, Indianapolis. The sisters at St. John worked very closely with the girls and took a sincere interest in our lives. They encouraged scholastic achievement as well as service to others and our spiritual development. It seemed quite natural for me to want to be like them, said Therese. After graduating in 1953, Therese entered the Congregation the following February. She received the religious name Sister Pauline Therese. During her time in the Congregation, Therese earned a bachelors degree in education from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College and a masters degree in education from Indiana University. For 16 years, Therese ministered as a junior-high teacher or teacher/ principal. She was challenged, most especially during those years when she wore the two hats of teacher and administrator, but she found strength from her Congregation. I always enjoyed community living -- praying, working and playing with women of all ages; learning skills from seasoned professionals; enjoying the inspiration of so many great women; and experiencing emotional, spiritual and educational support, continued Therese. The winds of change, however, were blowing as the effects of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) were felt not only in the pews of the church, but in religious life as well. One of the aspects of the council was for religious congregations to re-examine their roots and to adapt and renew life for the conditions of our time.Continued on page 1817Continued from page 17The community was going through a painful period of great transition, said Therese, who left the Congregation in June of 1972. Some of those issues related to the transition included the obvious -- like no longer wearing the habit and people leaving religious life. However, other changes were not as evident. More and more sisters were leaving the classroom -- the traditional ministry for Sisters of Providence -- for other ministries. Therese came to accept the Congregations new direction for missions. One part of the renewal that she resisted was some sisters decisions to live singly. To Therese, this was a movement away from living in community and all that she cherished. This unrest caused me to question what witness we were giving to the world that we had dedicated our lives to serve. I decided that I could live this kind of life as well outside of community without all the inner conflict, and I have found this to be true. I have never once regretted my decision to leave, said Therese. Although she left the Congregation, Thereses ties with the Sisters of Providence were never totally severed. When I first left the Congregation, I felt great sadness at separating myself from this wonderful family of friends and companions. But I soon realized that there was no separation, said Therese. Sister Adele Beacham, realizing that Therese would need employment before she started her teaching position at an Indianapolis public school that fall, offered her a position with the Head Start Program at All Saints School, Indianapolis. Although she wasnt officially a member of the Congregation, her sisters were still concerned about her welfare. She and other women who left the Congregation stayed connected with the community by attending reunions in 1983 and 1990. This eventually grew into an organization of former members of the Congregation known as Women in Providence (WIP). The community invited us back to the Woodsand assured us that it would always be our home, continued Therese, who participates regularly in WIP activities. This daughter of Saint Mother Theodore has continued a life of service to others that she learned in her early years as a sister. She taught school for another 26 years, and she has volunteered in a myriad of ways including at a family shelter, school library and a free medical clinic. Out of thanksgiving for her education, experience and spiritual foundation, Therese has financially given to the Congregation over the years. She has also remembered the Congregation in her will. I decided to remember the Sisters of Providence in my will because they are family. They cared for me for 18 years, providing love, support and companionship as well as a good education, said Therese. Indeed, Therese has never separated herself from the Congregation. HPhoto below: To this day, Therese thinks of the Sisters of Providence as her family.18HOPE // FALL 2007Development updatesYou, too, can help promote vocationsYou can assist in promoting vocations in many ways. Top on the list is prayer, asking God to plant the seed of a call to the religious life in the hearts of women who have a passion for the Providence mission. Or, perhaps you can be the sower of that seed yourself, by suggesting to a young woman you know that she consider exploring a call to religious life. If you care to financially support aspects of the vocation and initial formation program, several funding opportunities are available: Support a novice in the inter-community novitiate program: * $82.50 per week for tuition per semester; * $70 a week for room and board per semester; * $68 per day for an eight-day retreat in preparation for vows: * $20 per day for solitude experiences at a hermitage; and/or * $70 per study group for books used in vow preparation. Support our vocation discernment events (three per year): * $50 per participant room and board (averages 8 per session); * $750 a day average cost for speakers, directors, etc.; and/or * assistance with air travel from a distance (cost varies). Please use the envelope enclosed in HOPE and mark Vocations on the response form.phonathon yet and a 13% increase over the 2006 phonathon. These funds are largely unrestricted, so the Congregation can use them wherever theyre most needed which includes support of ministries, projects and programs. We attribute this phenomenal success to the tender care of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, a crew of hard working volunteers and our incredibly generous relatives, alumnae/i and friends. Were always grateful when Sisters of Providence alumnae and other friends volunteer their time and talent to the phonathon. The energetic group of volunteers who called or clerked for the 2007 phonathon included alumnae from Providence in Chicago and Marywood in Evanston, Ill.; from St. John Academy, St. Joan of Arc and St. Simon Grade Schools, St. Agnes Academy and Ladywood-St. Agnes High School, all in Indianapolis; and from the Aspirancy, Saint Maryof-the-Woods. Many thanks to these wonderful women! A Mission Advisory Board member, Providence Candidate-Associates and Sister of Providence staff members at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods rounded out the hearty group of volunteer callers and clerks assisting the sisters, who always enjoy and appreciate each others company. We are also grateful to Guerin Prep High School in River Grove, Ill., and to Kevin Kirkpatrick, Century 21 Realty Group 1, Indianapolis, for providing space and telephones for the calling from Chicago and Indianapolis, respectively -- a tremendous blessing.Check this out on our Web siteThe House and Senate approved the Pension Protection Act of 2006 and the president signed it into legislation in August 2006. If you are 70-1/2 or older, this new legislation now allows you to make cash gifts totaling up to $100,000 a year from a traditional or Roth IRA to qualified charities without incurring income tax on the withdrawal. For information on how you may benefit from this legislation please visit www.SistersofProvidence.og and click on the As seen in our publications link.2007: a great year for the phonathonIt has been a good year for the 2007 phonathon. Make that a great year! Thus far, $133,033 has been received in 1,635 gifts and pledges, our bestwww.SistersofProvidence.org19Alumnae/i newsReunions 2007-08St. John, Indianapolis, Sept. 9 Luncheon Cheverus Centennial School (Sacred Hearts, Malden, Mass.), Sept. 9 Liturgy St. Rose, Vincennes, Ind., Sept. 29 Luncheon Marywood, Evanston, Ill., Oct. 6 Luncheon Immaculata High School, Washington, D.C., Oct. 14 Luncheon Providence High School, Chicago, Oct. 27 Luncheon St. Columbkille, Chicago, April 6, 2008, Luncheon St. Agnes, Indianapolis, June 8, 2008, Luncheon All alumnae/i are invited to attend a celebration of the talents of Sisters of Providence artists and to enjoy an afternoon of artwork and the Madrigal Choir of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, April 26, 2008, at Guerin Preparatory High School, River Grove, Ill. The Providence Alumnae Association was recognized with a special award during the annual Mother Theodore Guerin Dinner in June. Through the years, the assocation has given more than $1 million to the Congregation. Pictured above are (left to right): Therese Donatello, General Superior Sister Denise Wilkinson, Noreen (Dennehy) Jasinski, Eileen McNulty and Sister Susan Paweski. (Photo by Becky Igo)Its reunion time again!Dear Providence Alumnae, Where has the time gone? Do you often wonder how it can be the end of the month when you thought it was the beginning? In many cases, this realization that time is flying is the impetus for reunions. The need to re-connect with our school friends and teachers seems to be growing. I am receiving more inquiries about reunions in the past year than I did four years ago. The biggest obstacle to reunion gatherings is the missing students for whom we have no contact information or incorrect information. You can help us greatly by sending in address corrections and asking your classmates if they are receiving our HOPE magazine. We have information about all school reunions and some class reunions on our Web site and on this page. All reunion information is published in your alumnae/i newsletters. If you do not receive a newsletter from your school alumnae/i association, please contact me. Marywood, Calif., alumnae, we need your help! Its time to begin to plan for another all school reunion. We had a great time at the reunion in 2006 thanks to the work of the Collins sisters -- Mary, Kathleen, Meg, Tricia and Eileen. Please contact me about your interest in the next reunion. Our goal is to find a group of four or five women to form a committee for the reunion organization and to get a newsletter out to the alumnae. So many graces continue to enrich our lives. Stay open to Gods presence in your life. May our Saint Mother Theodore Guerin be an inspiration to us all!Sister Susan Paweski, SP Alumnae/i relations manager/major gifts associate 773-463-2478 or spaweski@spsmw.org20HOPE // FALL 2007NewsnotesSPs present academic papersThe University of Notre Dame was the location for the Seventh Triennial Conference on the History of Women Religious June 24-27. The conference was titled Local Cultures/Global Church: Challenge and Mission in the History of Women Religious. Sisters Maureen Abbott and Mary Roger Madden presented papers under the general title of Providence: Gods Face of Many Colors, 1840-2007. Sister Mary Rogers paper was titled Immigrant Among Immigrants: Saint Mother Theodore Guerin and Sister Maureens Twentieth-Century Expansion of Mission to People of Color. Sister Mary Ryan, Congregation archivist, served as the chairperson. I decided to extend beyond the 20th century to include the work our sisters are currently doing with the largest immigrant group -- Hispanics. I got a wonderful response to my brief questionnaire. Then I was faced with the challenge of picking up from where Sister Mary Roger left off -- 1856 -- and work up to 2007, all within 10 pages! said Sister Maureen, who has accepted the task of writing the fourth volume of the Congregations history, 1926-1966. Sister Mary Roger, who is a founding member of the group, said, The conference was most stimulating, and I had an opportunity to renew former friendships. Recognized in absentia during a banquet was Sister Jeanne Knoerle. Sister Jeanne once served as a program director in the religion division ofthe Lilly Endowment. Funding from this endowment was instrumental in the creation of the History of Women Religious Network.SP named chancellor of dioceseSister Therese Guerin Sullivan has been appointed chancellor of the Diocese of Cleveland. This is the first time a woman has held this position in this diocese. As chancellor, Sister Therese Guerin will be responsible for the day-today administration of the diocese, including functioning as the chief of staff, and serving as canonical advisor to the bishop and the parishes. I am very pleased to assume the duties of chancellor. I am a teacher at heart. I see this role as a very practical way to bring pastoral understanding of Church law to situations, and to serve the ministry of justice in support of the mission of the Church, said Sister Therese Guerin. Sister Therese Guerin, who served since 2001 as a tribunal judge/defender of the bond for the diocese, has a doctor of ministry from the University of St. Mary of the Lake, Mundelein, Ill. She has a licentiate in Canon Law from St. Paul University, Ottawa, Canada, and a masters degree in education from DePaul University, Chicago. Sister Therese Guerin continued about her appointment, I believe God grants new gifts in every age. One way to experience such personal renewal is to say `Yes and follow the open ended invitation to serve. I look forward to learning more about diocesan ministries, how they relate to one another, and discovering ways to further the mission of the Church.Treasures found during auctionEither in person or through the world of the Internet, hundreds of people found treasures during the 2007 Sisters of Providence and Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Auction Aug. 9-12. The auction was conducted by Robert J. Brown Appraisal Services, Indianapolis. Items that were sold were less significant to the Congregation, and funds will be used to restore artwork in the Congregations holdings. Pictured at right is Ned Pennington of Terre Haute, Ind., who looks closely at a glass piece prior to the start of bidding Aug. 10. (Photo by Becky Igo)www.SistersofProvidence.org21Obituaries\In MemoryI sleep, but my heart watches... ~ Song of SongsSister Dorothy Karier Sister Dorothy was known for her patience and kindness. Entering the Congregation Jan. 5, 1939, Sister Dorothy ministered in education in Massachusetts, Indiana, California and Illinois. She also served as a parish minister and co-administrator in Dell City, Texas, and as a pastoral associate at Assumption and St. Joseph parishes, Cresco, Iowa. Sister Marijo Lynch May 12, 1937-April 29, 2007 May 27, 1921-April 13, 2007n memoryThe thing people remember most about Sister Marijo was her willingness to do anything that was needed. Sister Marijo entered the Congregation July 22, 1955. A teacher and principal, she served in schools in Illinois and California. She also ministered four years at Saint Maryof-the-Woods College. At the time of her death, she was a teacher of English as a Second Language at an adult education center in Torrance, Calif. Sister Francis Eugene Bussing Jan. 5, 1920-June 2, 2007By nature and grace, Sister Francis Eugene was optimistic and generous. Entering the Congregation Jan. 8, 1938, Sister Francis Eugene taught intermediate grades or served as principal in Illinois, Indiana, Oklahoma, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and California. She also served as the alumnae coordinator for St. Rose Academy, Vincennes, Ind. Sister Monica Withem (formerly Sister Patricia Ann) April 17, 1914-June 9, 2007Sister Monica has been described as determined, prayerful and faith-filled. Entering religious life Feb. 10, 1933, Sister Monica ministered in schools in Indiana, Illinois and California. She also spent several years teaching in Arequipa, Peru. Sister Monica served as a pastoral associate in two Indianapolis parishes -- Assumption and St. Anthony. Sister Frances Finnegan (formerly Sister Mary Donald) July 8, 1916-June 23, 2007Sister Frances was deeply prayerful and totally committed to religious life. Sister Frances entered the Congregation Feb. 2, 1940. Her ministry as a teacher took her to schools in Indiana, Illinois and North Carolina. She also served as an assistant treasurer of St. Joseph Province, Park Ridge, Ill., and ministered nine years in the library at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.22HOPE // FALL 2007Sister Agnes Pauline MeinertOct. 15, 1916-June 24, 2007She was one of the greatest fans the Cubs will ever know and was privileged to occasionally lunch with the famous Harry Caray. Sister Agnes Pauline Meinert entered the Congregation Feb. 10, 1936. Her educational ministry took her to schools in Indiana, Illinois, Massachusetts and Washington, D.C. When she returned to the Woods, she ministered at Providence Center, the welcoming center of the Congregation. Sister Venard Sequence Aug. 30-1918-July 22, 2007Sister Venards talents were in her dear and caring friendships and love for God and Gods people. Entering the Congregation Feb. 2, 1939, Sister Venard ministered in schools in Indiana, Illinois and Maryland. She also briefly served at Providence Retirement Home, New Albany, Ind. She returned to the Woods in 1985. To read the entire obituary for a sister, please visit www.SistersofProvidence.org and look for As seen in our publications link.WoodsUp.com launches!In an effort to reach out to children and provide an online educational ministry, the Sisters of Providence are launching a site geared toward children in fourth through eighth grades. WoodsUp.com, which opened its cyber-doors in August, features subjects ranging from the arts and environment to social justice and history. Sections are devoted to teaching children about Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, as well as religious faith and values. Weve tried to present the information in a fun manner for this age group, Sister Ann Casper, executive director of the Office of Congregational Advancement, said. We want to maintain our high teaching standards in this online format, while getting the attention of this Internet generation. Teachers will find resources on this site to help them plan lessons, match the material to the state of Indiana teaching standards, or share fun, safe, educational games with their students. The material is presented in such a way that public school teachers can use the site in their classrooms with respect to the religious rights of students. Visit WoodsUp.com and share this information with students and teachers you know!www.SistersofProvidence.org23The Congregation will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, page 12.(Photo by Kim Harmless)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: | 2007-09-06 |
| Source: |
http://indianamemory.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/ref/collection/sisters/id/461 |
| Collection: |
Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana |
| Rights: | http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/UND/1.0/ |
| Copyright: |
Copyright Undetermined |
| Subjects: |
Religion Religious communities Religious groups Religious orders Rites & ceremonies Guerin, Theodore, Saint, 1798-1856 Anniversaries Church buildings Sculpture Sculptors Statues Awards Oaths Women Religion People |
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.