Sisters of the Holy Cross fall / winter fall / winter inspirit 1

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1 inspirit Sisters of the Holy Cross 2014 fall / winter 2014 fall / winter inspirit 1

2 Sisters of the Holy Cross table of contents vol. 2, no. 3 fall/winter 2014 inspirit is published three times annually by the Sisters of the Holy Cross. Sisters of the Holy Cross Founded in 1841 in Le Mans, France, the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross is an international community of women religious whose motherhouse is located in Notre Dame, Indiana. We are called to participate in the prophetic mission of Jesus to witness God s love for all creation. Our ministries focus on providing education and health care services, eradicating material poverty, ending gender discrimination, and promoting just, mutual relationships among people, countries and the entire Earth community. To learn more, visit Leadership Team Sister M. Veronique (Wiedower), CSC Sister Sharlet Ann Wagner, CSC Sister Angela Golapi Palma, CSC Sister Brenda Cousins, CSC Sister Suzanne Brennan, CSC inspirit Team Editor: Amy H. Smessaert Writers: Holy Cross Sisters M. Rose Edward (Goodrow), Margaret Mary Lavonis, Margaret Ann Nowacki; Sister Ann Oestreich, IHM; Leslie Choitz; Linda M. Diltz; Ruth Johnson; Louise Koselak Designer: Elissa Schmidt Send story ideas, articles, photographs and comments to communications@cscsisters.org or Communications Office Sisters of the Holy Cross 100 Lourdes Hall Saint Mary s Notre Dame, Indiana (574) , fax: (574) inspirit is printed with soy ink on Rolland Enviro100 (contains certified 100 percent post-consumer fiber, processed chlorine free, manufactured using biogas energy) Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross, Notre Dame, Indiana. All rights reserved. Dear Friends, This issue of inspirit is filled with a diverse and engaging selection of stories. In many ways it echoes the life of the Sisters of the Holy Cross over the months since the previous issue; we have been about many things! As you read these brief accounts of the Spirit-filled General Chapter in Entebbe, Uganda, to the heart-wrenching story of prison ministry in Lima, Peru you undoubtedly will find yourself caught up in this multifaceted picture of God s mission of love being carried to the corners of the world. Brother Joel Giallanza, CSC, in writing Praying from the Heart of Holy Cross Spirituality, reminds us: Mission is a matter of the heart. Knowledge and insight are needed, but the lasting work, the Gospel work of building and sustaining a culture of love must be spread from heart to heart. As you peruse these encounters with the people of God and God s creation, we pray that the love which kindled and suffused them spreads to your heart, too. As you see, there is a new signature at the end of this missive. I am privileged and humbled to be the newly elected president of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. I am joined by a wonderful Leadership Team, and together with the support and prayers of our benefactors, employees, associates and volunteers we look forward to the next five years of working hand-in-hand and heart-to-heart to further God s reign of peace in our world. Devotedly in Holy Cross, Sister M. Veronique (Wiedower), CSC President, Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross Sharing stories Sisters and students learn about each other during National Catholic Sisters Week Hearing the groans of prisoners The other side of the desk Sister Taposi plans for the future Flourishing in fertile ground Moreau Primary School grows in Uganda Living her faith A dog s love An expression of gratitude On the cover: 18 Our work for justice Seminar teaches techniques to empower leaders Preparing for the future Chapter meeting in Uganda enriches and stretches congregation grant them peace garden of honor Legacy Club IRA charitable distributions 2014 Christmas remembrance cards Chapel of Loreto Sisters of the Holy Cross prayed, discussed and discerned how to live their mission into the future at the 2014 General Chapter meeting in Entebbe, Uganda, in June. Clockwise from top left, Holy Cross Sisters Lucy Lalsangzuali, Noylí Margot Ríos Manzo, Margaret Ann Nowacki, Pushpa Teresa Gomes, Lillian Sullivan, Aline Marie (Steuer), Theresia W. Mbugua and Sharlet Ann Wagner 2 inspirit fall/winter fall / winter inspirit 3

3 Sharing stories A Holy Cross delegation traveled to St. Catherine University, St. Paul, Minnesota, to kick off National Catholic Sisters Week, March Left to right: Sister Pamela Welch, CSC; Holy Cross College student Brigidanne Brennen; Sister Katherine Kase, CSC; Saint Mary s College students Maggie Dewan and Katherine Alexander; and Sister Helene Sharp, CSC 4 inspirit fall/winter 2014 Sisters and students learn about each other during National Catholic Sisters Week We don t want your stories to be lost. We want them known now and in the future, said Saint Mary s College student Katherine Alexander, who reported her experience of attending the launch of National Catholic Sisters Week (NCSW) in Minnesota to Sisters of the Holy Cross at Saint Mary s Convent, Notre Dame, Indiana. I didn t know the magnificent work of women religious in the past and what they do today, Katherine continued. I find your stories inspiring. All college women should know your stories of discernment, how you came to your vocation and what sisters do every day. Katherine was part of a delegation of three college students and three Holy Cross sisters who traveled to St. Catherine University, St. Paul, Minnesota, to kick off the inaugural NCSW, March Funded by a three-year grant from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, NCSW is an annual event designed to raise the visibility of women religious, increase awareness of the contributions of sisters, and through these efforts help young women become more attuned to discerning a call to religious life. The NCSW delegation included Holy Cross Sisters Katherine Kase, Pamela Welch and Helene Sharp and students Brigidanne Brennen from Holy Cross College, and Maggie Dewan and Katherine from Saint Mary s College, a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. Both schools are located in Notre Dame, Indiana. Those attending the NCSW launch included over 60 college-age women and about 100 sisters from various religious communities, most of whom sponsor colleges or universities. Students and sisters participated in sessions such as oral history, social media and storytelling. They also studied how women religious typically are portrayed in films and in the media. We learned strategies to overcome these stereotypes, such as telling stories about who we are and what we do, said Sister Helene. The sessions also helped us understand how to use social media to reach college-age women. Over the next year, Katherine hopes to do just that. Along with her fellow students who participated in the NCSW launch, she plans to help Sisters of the Holy Cross learn more about social media and share their stories. Visit the South Bend Area Vocation Committee Facebook page at To help eradicate disease, Sister Lilma Calsin Collazos, CSC, center, coordinates the spraying of the prison of San Pedro de Lurigancho in Lima, Peru. Hearing the groans of prisoners Even though her police officer father and brothers told her that inmates in jail are bad and she should not go there, Sister Lilma Calsin Collazos, CSC, felt called to prison ministry. A nurse, Sister Lilma was prepared to heal these men, but she was surprised to find such horrifying conditions at the prison of San Pedro de Lurigancho in Lima, Peru. I will never forget my first day visiting the prison because the situation was terrible, said Sister Lilma. There was water everywhere and the smell was horrible. Hygiene does not exist because water and sewer service do not work. In addition, the prison is overcrowded. Each of 20 pavilions was designed to house 150 men, but there are 550 men per pavilion. With a lack of sanitation and severe overcrowding, the prison was ripe for the health care catastrophe it experienced last year. For seven months a serious fungus and scabies epidemic ran rampant through the prison. The epidemic spread to all prisoners, who were infected quickly, said Sister Lilma. Sister Lilma and two volunteer nurses enlisted the assistance of three doctor-prisoners to help heal the men. We have a doctor who is in prison because he treated a terrorist in his office a while ago, she said, giving an example of how a doctor could become imprisoned. A volunteer nurse cares for the foot of a prisoner afflicted with scabies and a fungal infection. With the help of Ministry With the Poor funding for medicine and medical supplies, Sister Lilma coordinated with the doctors and nurses to care for over 8,800 men, many with serious complications. We regret that we could not save the lives of 13 prisoners because of the time we lost in discussion with the director of the prison, said Sister Lilma. When the epidemic was controlled, the new prison director allowed upgrades to water and sewer services. Today we continue with faith and hope as we serve the prisoners with love, said Sister Lilma fall / winter inspirit 5

4 The other side of the desk The Sisters of the Holy Cross have a long-established reputation for excellence in the fields of education and health care. Many graduates of Holy Cross schools gratefully remember the valuable education they received under the tutelage of the sisters. What may be less well-known is the high priority the congregation places on quality education for its own members. Currently, an estimated 30 to 40 Sisters of the Holy Cross are in the classroom but on the other side of the desk. These women are entering classrooms, not as teachers but as students. There is historical precedence for this priority, beginning with Holy Cross founder Blessed Basil Anthony Moreau s vision of education (see sidebar, at right). Sister M. Madeleva (Wolff), CSC, author, poet and president of Saint Mary s College, Notre Dame, Indiana, , SISTERS of the HOLY CROSS Back to school crusaded vigorously for the education of young sisters in theology as well as professional preparation for ministry. This priority on education has present-day relevance as well. The 2014 General Chapter theme (see article on page 12), See, I am doing something new! resonated with what the sisters are experiencing in their ministries around the world. In order to discern needs, fulfill their mission and bring about the new thing God is doing, the sisters need to be prepared. That is why, in fields as diverse as mathematics, theology, psychology and financial administration, in colleges and universities throughout the world often far from the land they call home you will find Sisters of the Holy Cross intent on equipping themselves for ministry. In this issue of inspirit, we bring you the first in a series of articles about some of these sisters on the other side of the desk. In their stories you will learn what motivates them to do what they do, what kinds of issues they face, and their resolve to carry the tradition of excellence they have inherited into the future. We begin this series with Sister Taposi (Gomes), CSC, who was asked by the congregation s leadership to study finance management based on her demonstrated interest and ability. Her previous education and experience (including manager of finance for the Area of Asia, , and member of the congregation s Finance Committee, ) helped prepare her to pursue her master s degree. Blessed Basil Anthony Moreau Education always held in high regard Blessed Basil Anthony Moreau, who founded the Holy Cross congregations in 19th-century France, articulated a philosophy of education that combines intellectual and moral instruction. His vision is often summarized in his words, the mind will not be cultivated at the expense of the heart, and lives on today in education ministries sponsored by Holy Cross sisters, brothers and priests around the world. Father Moreau s educational goals also extended to members of the Holy Cross family themselves. He regularly emphasized the importance of remaining faithful in religious life and professional in ministry, as his comments from Circular Letter 14 reveal: This important work which has been entrusted to us is not yet completed. It still calls for many sacrifices and much labor. I am well aware of all that still remains to be done to form our [members] to the religious life, to afford them an intellectual formation in keeping with the needs of the times, and to establish [continuity] in their conduct and their teaching methods. Sister Taposi plans for the future Two years ago, when Sister Taposi (Gomes), CSC, arrived at the Mendoza School of Business at the University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, she was invited by her professors to spend 30 minutes in whatever way she wanted. She chose to spend them in front of the statue of Our Lady atop the Golden Dome, which, she said, gave her a sense of peace, trust and strength. Over the next two years, as she pursued a master s degree in nonprofit administration, Sister Taposi barely had 30 more free minutes! Reflecting on her experience prior to graduation in August 2014, she said, It was exciting to study with many experts from the business world and with the professors who were willing to share their experience and expertise. Each professor was generous in sharing his or her wisdom, time and gifts with me and my fellow students. An exciting part of her program was a class in international immersion. Sister Taposi received a scholarship that enabled her to go to Argentina with five team members to evaluate a local business and offer recommendations for improvement. They worked with Zafran, a new snack company in Buenos Aires, to help them enhance the financial stability and profit value of the company. While in Argentina, Sister Taposi and her team arranged a special side excursion. Visiting the church where Pope Francis was ordained and the home where he grew up was a tremendous experience, she said. Sister Taposi (Gomes), CSC, received her master s degree from the University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, August 3. This was a special time, and I prayed for all those near and dear to me who have given me support. As graduation day approached, Sister Taposi reflected on her experiences as a graduate student. She learned that managing finance is much more than accurate calculations. It means using the best tools available to make our financial future sustainable for the long term. She added, I feel there is a definite element of spirituality in learning. The interaction with other students helped me to appreciate how helpful and positive it is to work with members of a team. I enjoyed walking through the campus, the international students gatherings and participating in workshops. And I made many new friends at the Writing Center, she recalled with a smile. I am so grateful for the opportunity to study, and the many hours of help given to me by my sisters. Looking to the future, Sister Taposi said, The subjects that I studied will be useful in financial management and administration. I also will be able to use what I have learned to help plan and implement future developments in any of the ministries of the congregation. I will be happy to serve anywhere. Born in the Sunabazu Village of Dhaka, Bangladesh, Sister Taposi (Gomes), CSC, made her profession as a Sister of the Holy Cross in Since then she has ministered throughout Bangladesh in parishes, schools and health centers. 6 inspirit fall/winter fall / winter inspirit 7

5 Moreau Primary School expands to meet needs of villagers by Sister Margaret Ann Nowacki, CSC Nothing breeds success like success, and Moreau Primary School in Kirinda, Uganda, is a prime example. From a tiny mustard seed of hope in the minds and hearts of Sisters of the Holy Cross and local villagers, the school has grown into a flourishing educational complex that is outstanding in its excellence. As early as 2007 the Uganda Ministry Planning Committee felt the need to evaluate the effectiveness of the adult education programs that had been part of the education unit at the Holy Cross Family Centre since its establishment six years before. During these years, the center provided both health services and education for residents of the many villages located in this very rural part of Uganda. Because of the decline in attendance at the women s sewing unit at the Flourishing in fertile ground center, the sisters began to search for new ways to serve the people that would be more beneficial and a better use of limited resources. Sister Mary Alice Bowler, CSC, area coordinator at the time, summarized these efforts: We set up an evaluation process, which included interviewing the villagers to discover how they viewed our existing programs, as well as asking for their input on what they felt they needed for the future. The response was mixed; however, one consistent theme that has endured over the years was the request that we provide education for youth, specifically at the nursery school and primary levels. Because the support for a nursery school was so positive, the pilot project took off with amazing speed. With Sister Mary Louise Wahler, CSC, in charge, Holy Cross Sisters Lilian Briege Awino and Edith Tumuhimbise worked together to set up a nursery school in the two classrooms formerly used by the sewing center. In March 2008 eight boys and 20 girls made up the first nursery class of youngsters from ages 3 to 7. Interestingly, it was the fathers who registered most of the students and have continued to bring the children to the center, said Sister Mary Alice. After years of trying to involve the village men, this is the first time they have shown any interest in the education center. In order to sustain the new school, a small tuition fee was charged, making the new endeavor a potentially self-supporting program. In just a few months it became evident that the mustard seed of this new ministry had been planted in fertile soil and was flourishing. The local people soon became aware that the students in the nursery school exceeded the level of their older brothers and sisters who attended the public primary school. At the urging of the parents, the sisters prepared a proposal to expand the nursery school to include the primary grades. This proposal was eventually approved by the congregation s leadership, and plans were put in place to build a new school that would accommodate the increasing number of students applying for admission. It is not difficult to measure the success of this new venture. Consider the enrollment figures: In 2008 the total enrollment was 28; the next year it more than doubled to 60, which included 33 in the nursery level and 27 in the primary level. From these numbers the total enrollment soared from the little seed of 28 to the current 373 students. At present the school has grown from nursery school to level 6, and the future remains bright. The Moreau Primary School was named after Blessed Basil Anthony Moreau, founder of the Congregations of Holy Cross, because the start of this small pilot project began the year of his beatification. Father Moreau certainly has blessed the efforts to serve the people of God in this area of Uganda. The school continues to receive support from donations large and small. One member of the Knights of Columbus of the Rock Creek Council in Maryland inspired other members to adopt the school in 2009, and they have a long-term commitment to support the school. The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation gave a significant gift in memory of Sister Philomena Quiah, CSC, former member of the congregation s Leadership Team, specifically for the building of the Moreau Primary School. Students of Blessed Sacrament School in Washington, D.C., hired themselves out for labors of love to contribute their earnings from chores for books, sports equipment and other items needed for the day-today operations of the school. In 2012 Moreau Primary School was the focus for the congregation s spring appeal, and so success and support go hand-in-hand when the work of God is the focus of everyone s efforts. To learn how you can support Moreau Primary School and other ministries of the Sisters of the Holy Cross, visit Sister Margaret Ann Nowacki, CSC, writes for the congregation s Communications Office at Saint Mary s, Notre Dame, Indiana. LEFT: With the help of our donors, construction of the new school was well under way in BELOW: Get on your mark. Students enjoy play time with Sister Edith Tumuhimbise, CSC. The newly completed Moreau Primary School in Kirinda, Uganda Photo illustration by Elissa Schmidt 8 inspirit fall/winter fall / winter inspirit 9

6 Sister Marie Julie (Shea), CSC, has served as a Sister of the Holy Cross for 75 years. Living her faith by Sister Katherine Kase, CSC 10 inspirit fall/winter 2014 Celebrating 75 years in Holy Cross Sister Marie Julie (Shea), CSC, who celebrates 75 years as a Sister of the Holy Cross, frequently can be found in the Saint Angela Hall chapel in Kensington, Maryland, saying her prayers, especially her rosary, and mentioning by name her students, family, friends, bandmates, co-workers of old, companions in community and the many people she meets while doing her errands. Her loving concern for people s needs is ever present, and everyone who knows Julie avows that her goodness and prayerfulness rub off on others. Sister Julie was honored by the Saint Angela community at a jubilee celebration on Sunday, April 27. She read at Mass and during the general intercessions lovingly recited from memory the names of the 12 women who became sisters with her in All 12 are deceased and enjoying God s eternal loving presence. They went off to heaven and left me behind, she said. At 97 Julie continues to wear many hats. Writer Julie composes marvelous thankyou notes to all the benefactors of the Saint Angela community where she resides. The notes are charming and warmly written in that beautiful script of years gone by. She also corresponds with nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, great-grands and great-great-grands. Receptionist Julie takes her turn at the reception desk to answer the telephone and doorbell. She makes announcements over the loudspeaker and tracks down residents for visitors. Sacristan Julie washes and irons chapel linen. Chauffeur Julie continues to pass the required driving test for individuals over 75 years of age. She drives regularly to visit her little brother, Charlie, who is 85 and lives in nearby Silver Spring. She also drives her sisters in community to familiar places such as the post office, library, doctors offices and grocery stores. At meetings, Julie often is the one who speaks up for the minority point of view. She can summarize the issue in a sentence or two. Her common sense and clarity of thought are appreciated by everyone. Those who knew her when she was principal or vocation director or teacher praise her intelligence, organization and empathy for others. These traits are evident in day-to-day community life. Julie witnesses daily to the essence of religious life to celebrate God s love for each person. When I meet her in the hallway, she always asks how I am and listens to my response. Then she asks about people we both know. When I ask about her, she will share a story and sometimes replies, Dear, don t get old! However, Julie is most grateful for perseverance. Early on she grew to appreciate hearing God grant you perseverance from the older sisters. With God s help, I am persevering, she said. Julie also prays for the continuation of God s work through the women of Holy Cross, from the past, present and into the future, wherever sisters are called to be and to serve. I pray daily to St. Catherine of Siena and to Mother M. Rose Elizabeth (Havican), CSC, for the blessings of God on the future of Holy Cross, that it will continue to follow Moreau s vision, she said, referring to Holy Cross founder Blessed Basil Anthony Moreau. Great women have gone before us. May great women continue the good work that God calls us to be and to do. Living by her faith, Sister Julie is a shining example of humility, congeniality and goodwill. Sister Katherine Kase, CSC, is vocation coordinator for the United States. grant them peace These Sisters of the Holy Cross were called home to God since the last issue of inspirit. While we feel their loss, we rejoice in their newfound lives. To read more about them or to make a memorial contribution, please visit Sister M. Cecilia Ann (Cecilia Ann Kelly), CSC December 4, 1927 July 9, 2014 entered from Akron, Ohio first profession August 15, 1951 Artistry touched every aspect of Sister Cecilia Ann s life her community, her teaching and her philosophy. In community she gifted the sisters with her gentle effort to provide a delightful ambiance for them with lovely bouquets and decorations. In her classroom she had a profound influence on the lives of her students. In her personal and spiritual life Sister Cecilia Ann said, Daily prayer, community life and service, and my ministry in teaching these are the mainstays of my life. Art for me is an integral part of my life and ministry. Sister Agnes Solari (Sister M. Regina Rosarii), CSC May 15, 1911 August 13, 2014 entered from Vinton, California first profession January 6, 1933 Sister Agnes Solari was a devoted and prayerful religious. Her contemplative approach to prayer was reflected in all of her interactions, whether with students, their families, her friends or ministry associates. She taught primaryage students in the West for over 30 years and then began a diverse career serving as superior to retired sisters in California, manager of a senior citizen apartment complex in Mississippi, school secretary in Texas, business manager in a Texas home health agency, regional councilor for sisters in the East, and accountant at a Louisiana health care center fall / winter inspirit 11

7 We choose to deepen our commitment to the people we serve and continue to be a prophetic sign of God s love to the Church and the world Direction Statement, Sisters of the Holy Cross Preparing for the future General Chapter meeting in Uganda enriches and stretches congregation by Sister M. Rose Edward (Goodrow), CSC From the moment we arrived at the Entebbe airport and were greeted by the welcoming smiles of our Ugandan sisters, Sisters of the Holy Cross from around the world experienced the hospitality of the Pearl of Africa. The next morning we saw the banana trees an African symbol of deep and warm welcome planted outside the Entebbe Retreat Center, our home away from home during the congregation s 2014 General Chapter, June The beauty and hospitality of the Ugandan culture were threaded throughout our chapter experience, enriching and stretching us as we prayed, discussed and discerned how we will live our mission in the future. This general chapter, the first held outside of the motherhouse at Saint Mary s, Notre Dame, Indiana, was marked by expressive liturgies, most celebrated by Holy Cross priests, and contemplative prayer at the retreat center chapel and in the meeting room at the Central Inn. Our African sisters drummed and played other instruments, and the songs, prayers and readings from Africa, Asia, North America and South America reflected our internationality. Throughout his presentations prior to the formal opening of chapter, Father Anthony Gittins, CSSp, imparted a deeper understanding of what it means to be an intercultural community, which is different from an international community. Intercultural living, Father Gittins said, is authentic discipleship lived by culturally different persons forming community together. With this framework and the input from Holy Cross sisters around the world during the year of preparation for chapter, we spent the next few days engaged in a process led by chapter facilitator Sister Mary Jo Nelson, OLVM, to articulate the congregation s direction for the next five years. The Direction Statement was born after much prayer, reflection, dialogue and sharing. A joyful song of praise resounded following unanimous approval of the statement by the 64 chapter members. The statement begins: We, Sisters of the Holy Cross, participants in God s mission, rejoice in being an international and intercultural congregation, which is both gift and challenge for us, for the Church and for the world. Immersed in a world of violence that is destroying human dignity and creation, it is our responsibility to work to implement a culture of peace and nonviolence. (To view the full text of the Direction Statement, visit With the Chapter of Affairs completed, it was time for a day of prayer to further prepare for the election of congregation leadership. Retreat director Sister Teresita Weind, SNDdeN, engaged us in a process of contemplative listening through poetry, song, visual images and prayerful reflections. continued, page 15 LEFT TO RIGHT: Sisters of the Holy Cross from four continents participated in the congregation s Twenty-fifth General Chapter meeting in Entebbe, Uganda, June Sisters and candidates gather in front of the chapel at the Entebbe Retreat Center operated by the Sisters of Mary Reparatrix. Using Ugandan drums and other percussion instruments, Sisters of the Holy Cross call members of the 2014 General Chapter to Mass in the Entebbe Retreat Center chapel. Left to right: Sisters Stella Maris Kunihira, Theresia W. Mbugua, Jacinta Katusabe and Daisy Kabuleeta Sister Verónica A. Fajardo, CSC, acclaims the election of the new Leadership Team of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. Holy Cross Sisters Mary Ann Pajakowski, left, and Daisy Kabuleeta engage in dialogue during one of many table discussions at the 2014 General Chapter. 12 inspirit fall/winter fall / winter inspirit 13

8 Left to right, newly elected Leadership Team members for the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross, Sisters Angela Golapi Palma, Suzanne Brennan, M. Veronique (Wiedower), Brenda Cousins and Sharlet Ann Wagner Photo by Sue Brothers New team elected The Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross installed its new Leadership Team on September 7 in the Church of Our Lady of Loretto, Saint Mary s, Notre Dame, Indiana. The team was elected in June to a fiveyear term at the congregation s General Chapter meeting in Entebbe, Uganda. Sister M. Veronique (Wiedower), CSC, is president; Sister Sharlet Ann Wagner, CSC, is first councilor; Sister Angela Golapi Palma, CSC, is councilor; Sister Brenda Cousins, CSC, is general secretary; and Sister Suzanne Brennan, CSC, is general treasurer. Sister Veronique worked for the past five years at Saint Mary s College, a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Cross in Notre Dame, Indiana, serving as campus minister and then as vice president for mission. Her prior ministries include teaching music to high school students and ministering at St. Joseph Seminary in Palo Alto, California, where she helped with liturgy and music. She also was director for women religious for the Archdiocese of San Diego, California. In addition, Sister Veronique worked in initial formation for the Sisters of the Holy Cross. From 1994 to 2004 she served on the congregation s Leadership Team. Sister Veronique entered the congregation from San Diego in Sister Sharlet served as general secretary on 14 inspirit fall/winter 2014 the Leadership Team for the past five years. An immigration attorney, she practiced in California and at Holy Cross Ministries in Salt Lake City, Utah, a nonprofit organization sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Cross. She entered the congregation in 1988 from Santa Ana, California. Sister Golapi was elected to serve as a councilor on the Leadership Team in December 2012 to fill a vacancy following the death of Sister Philomena Quiah, CSC. While serving as councilor she also assisted at Brother Andre High School in Noakhali, Bangladesh. Over the years she has served as teacher and parish minister in Bangladesh, Uganda and Ghana. She also ministered in vocations and initial formation. Sister Golapi entered the congregation from Kharbaria, Bangladesh, in For the past year Sister Brenda worked in mission integration at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise, Idaho. She taught school in Virginia, served in parish ministry in Peru and Utah, directed novices in California and Uganda, and was the first novice director of the International Novitiate at Saint Mary s from 2008 to Sister Brenda entered the congregation in 1977 from Alexandria, Virginia. Sister Suzanne entered the congregation from Chicago, Illinois, in She served as a social worker, was in administration in various hospitals, served in goverance roles and ministered for the last 16 years as executive director of Holy Cross Ministries in Salt Lake City, which serves low-income, at-risk families throughout Utah. continued from page 13 The next day, after the Mass of the Holy Spirit, we began conversations about leadership among our table groups and with those sisters endorsed for congregation leadership. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we then elected our Leadership Team for , and the chapter room again was filled with sounds of joy! (See article on previous page.) As I think back over this time in Uganda, I have to say that for me the General Chapter of 2014 was one of the holiest moments that I have experienced in my 50-plus years of community. The desire of the sisters to allow the Holy Spirit to be the prime mover throughout this time together was powerful. I give thanks to God for this opportunity in my life. I, along with all the Sisters of the Holy Cross, am deeply grateful to God for each of you sisters, donors, associates, employees, volunteers and friends who joined us in prayer while we were in Entebbe. We invite you to rejoice with us and continue to pray for the Spirit s wisdom and guidance over the next five years as we deepen our commitment to the people we serve and continue to be a prophetic sign of God s love to the Church and the world. Sister M. Rose Edward (Goodrow), CSC, is director of development for the Sisters of the Holy Cross. RIGHT: Students greet Sisters of the Holy Cross from around the world during a visit to St. John Mary Vianney Senior Secondary School in Fort Portal, Uganda, where Sister Beatrice Driwaru, CSC, serves as headmistress. ABOVE: An infant is weighed at the Kyembogo Holy Cross Health Centre in Kirinda, Uganda, a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. The clinic was one stop of many on a pilgrimage to various places where Holy Cross sisters minister in southeastern and western Uganda. BELOW: Sister Lillian Sullivan, CSC, head librarian at St. Paul s National Major Seminary Kinyamasika in Fort Portal, Uganda, shows the new library to visiting Holy Cross sisters. LEFT: Sister Jacinta Katusabe, CSC, headmistress of Moreau Primary School in Kirinda, Uganda, introduces Sister Angela Golapi Palma, CSC, to the students as members of the 2014 General Chapter visit the new school. (See related article, page 8.) Left to right, standing by window, Sisters Jacinta and Golapi Uganda pilgrimages Sisters of the Holy Cross who were members of the 2014 General Chapter in Entebbe participated in pilgrimages to Holy Cross ministry sites in Uganda. These visits offered firsthand opportunities to see how the mission is being lived in various education, health care and parish settings in Jinja, Fort Portal and Kirinda. Visits to tea factories, shrines of martyrs and Queen Elizabeth National Park also helped sisters further experience Ugandan culture fall / winter inspirit 15

9 RIGHT: Rudy, a pet therapy dog who regularly visits the sisters at Saint Mary s Convent, Notre Dame, Indiana, begs a treat from Sister Mary Therese Coursey, CSC. BELOW: Sister Maureen Patrice (O Keeffe), CSC, fondly pets Rudy. ABOVE: Sister M. Elena (Malits), CSC, plays with Chloe, her special valentine. A dog s love An expression of gratitude Editor s note: The following letter was received from Sister Parboti (Gomes), CSC, area councilor in Shillong, India, regarding the progress of Our Lady of Holy Cross School, a new congregation-sponsored ministry in the village of Barakathal in northeast India, in the state of Tripura. Dear Friends of Holy Cross, First of all, I would like to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to you on behalf of all the sisters here in India. It is a great joy for all of us, especially for our sisters who are ministering in Barakathal. The school and convent moved to the new property on March 31, 2014, and the sisters began living in their new residence on Good Friday. On May 1 the hostel began. Thank you so much for all your prayerful support and for the many ways you have helped us. Our sisters are now on our own property, with enough space for the local community of sisters, and they are really happy. It is a result of the generosity of many of you who have given hope, words of encouragement, and your financial support to the congregation. We pray that the Lord will bless us to continue to blossom in our various ministries in this part of the land. We pray that we may have the wisdom and knowledge to plan well and use this new property for providing quality education for all and for the good of the congregation in the years to come. We are just beginning and we have a lot more to do so, dear friends, please continue to keep us in your prayers. With gratitude, Sister Parboti (Gomes), CSC To read more about how the sisters ministry in Barakathal began, go to media/documents/e-connect2014/ _indiagroundblessing.pdf. Commonly referred to as man s best friend, dogs are very special to many people and are especially therapeutic for older adults. The value of the emotional and physical support of these friends is no less true for the Sisters of the Holy Cross at Saint Mary s, Notre Dame, Indiana. Being a great pet lover herself, Sister M. Elena (Malits), CSC, in 2004 asked Lee Ann Moore, director of activities and volunteer services, if pet therapy could be included in the sisters activity program. Lee Ann s answer was a resounding yes. Since then, several dogs have been welcomed to Saint Mary s Convent and they visit the sisters on a regular basis. Lee Ann, of course, stipulates that visiting pets need to meet certain requirements. A veterinarian must check and approve the animal, and it must have all its shots. Trial visits are arranged with Sister Elena to judge the dog s friendliness and compatibility. Happily, Kaila, Chloe, Ollie, Maddie and Rudy have passed the test. The sisters obviously enjoy these dogs, but one in particular is extra special. Rudy, a 6-year-old Labrador retriever and Great Dane mix adopted by Lee Ann four years ago, is loved by everyone, including many employees and volunteers. He visits sisters every other week on alternate Mondays and Fridays and often goes to the physical therapy room where he has a captive audience. Rudy entertains individual sisters as well as groups, and one of his favorites is Sister Patricia Burke, CSC. The pleasure of playing with or snuggling up to a four-legged friend provides many therapeutic and health benefits for the sisters. These animals can ease loneliness, reduce stress, promote social interaction, encourage exercise and playfulness, and provide unconditional love and affection. Even sisters with serious health conditions react favorably to a pet visit. During the last days of her life, Sister M. Rosalma (Fulmer), CSC, received a visit from a furry friend. It brought a gentle and tender smile to her face. Left to right, Holy Cross Sisters Jacenta Dkhar and Rose Mary Marngar stand with students from Our Lady of Holy Cross School, a new congregation-sponsored ministry in the village of Barakathal, Tripura, India. 16 inspirit fall/winter fall / winter inspirit 17

10 Sister Gail Worcelo, SGM, lights a sequence of candles as she follows the spiral of the Cosmic Walk, a ritual representing the 14-billion-year cosmic and evolutionary journey of the universe, arranged on the floor in the Church of Our Lady of Loretto, Saint Mary s, Notre Dame, Indiana. Prayer leaders Sister Mary Turgi, CSC, left, and Sister Denise Turcotte, CSC, read the ritual s accompanying text as JusticeCraft participants and sisters prayerfully observe. Our work for justice Seminar teaches techniques to empower leaders Holy Cross sisters, brothers and priests long have been committed to working for systemic change by responding to the injustices of the times and standing with God s suffering people. They also seek to empower and train others to lead and coordinate justice activities in parishes, on college campuses and in congregations of women and men religious. The biennial JusticeCraft seminar, cosponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Cross Justice Office and the Holy Cross International Justice Office, is designed to do just that. Twenty-three participants from six countries attended the most recent JusticeCraft program held at Saint Mary s, Notre Dame, Indiana, May Interactive sessions led by an internationally known faculty addressed issues such as the spirituality of justice ministry, ecological sustainability, global economics, and peacemaking and nonviolence. Participants learned practical proven models and strategies that they can apply to a variety of settings that support the work of creating a peaceful, just and sustainable society. The next JusticeCraft seminar is expected to be held in To read more about how the Sisters of the Holy Cross are working for justice, visit LEFT: Brother Nirmal Gomes, CSC, and Sister Marjorie Polys, IHM, engage in the Art as Sacred Activism project at JusticeCraft. ABOVE: Left to right, Jennifer Betz; Sister Mary Ann Mueller, CSSF; Sister Katty Rocio, CCVI; Richard Kubrak; Kathleen Nealon, MSC; and Brother Nirmal Gomes, CSC, incorporate fire in the morning prayer for peace on May 22. ABOVE: Left to right, JusticeCraft participants Sister Claire Marquis, CSC; Sister Mary Magdalena Gomes, CSC; Sister Diane Dupere, CSC; and Jennifer Betz offer a response as part of the May 21 morning prayer. RIGHT: Interpreting O Butterfly by Herbert Brokering, liturgical dancers from St. Peter Lutheran Church, Mishawaka, Indiana, enrich the morning prayer at JusticeCraft on May 23. Left to right, Alex, Tori and Jackie Homann ABOVE: Richard Kubrak, far right, shares his perspective with Sister Deana Case, OSB; Sister Peggy Quinn, OSF; and Father Terrence Moran, CSsR, during table conversation at the weeklong JusticeCraft seminar held at Saint Mary s. RIGHT: Robert Hohl, research librarian emeritus from Saint Mary s College, Notre Dame, Indiana, explains the intricate artwork of the Saint John s Bible to JusticeCraft participants. 18 inspirit fall/winter fall / winter inspirit 19

11 join the Holy Cross Legacy Club Tear out at perforation Holy Cross Legacy Club recognizes the intentions of people who have made planned gifts to the Sisters of the Holy Cross. A planned gift is one that will be distributed sometime in the future. Such gifts include naming the congregation as a primary or contingent beneficiary in a ΏΏwill; ΏΏIRA or retirement plan; ΏΏlife insurance policy; ΏΏcharitable remainder trust. Membership is always open. The only requirement is a desire to help support the good works and lives of the Sisters of the Holy Cross into the future. Members are ordinary people with different income levels, professions and passions, whose extraordinary generosity will make a positive difference for years to come. The names of Legacy Club members are listed once a year in the annual report issue of inspirit and in Legacy Hall in Saint Mary s Convent. Members also may choose to be anonymous. If you have made plans for any kind of deferred gift, please let us know. We celebrate intentions we know plans can change. IRA charitable distributions 2014 As inspirit goes to press, there is a bill moving through Congress to reinstate and make permanent the IRA Charitable Contribution Act for This rule allows donors who are at least 70½ years of age to make distributions directly from their IRAs to charity. These distributions, which count toward the donor s required minimum distribution, are not counted as taxable income and are not subject to withholding. We do not know when or if this bill will pass, so watch the news. The benefits of an IRA charitable distribution vary from person to person. Please talk to your financial or tax advisor for the latest information and to determine if this is the right thing for you. for all readers: tell us your contact preferences To join now or to ask for more information, please send this form to: Sisters of the Holy Cross Development Office 407 Bertrand Hall Saint Mary s Notre Dame, IN Name Address City State ZIP Preferred telephone I would like more information about the Holy Cross Legacy Club. I already have made a planned gift to the Sisters of the Holy Cross and would like to be included in the Holy Cross Legacy Club. roof: we asked...you responded! THANK YOU! Our spring appeal, which focused on repairing the roof of the Church of Our Lady of Loretto, has been a tremendous success! Work is under way and should be completed by December We deeply appreciate your wonderful, generous response to this important need. God bless you! 20 inspirit fall/winter 2014 Name Address City State ZIP Preferred telephone Birth date My donations are Anonymous. Do not list my name. I have named the Sisters of the Holy Cross, Inc. in my will. inspirit magazine is available in print and on the website. Please mail to me once a year (fall appeal only, no magazine). Send me the print edition of inspirit magazine. Notify me by when inspirit is available on the website. Be sure to add development@cscsisters.org to your contact list. Please take me off your mailing list. Mail to: Sisters of the Holy Cross, Development Office Saint Mary s, 407 Bertrand Hall, Notre Dame, Indiana ; (574)

12 Moreau Garden Book of Remembrance 2014 Christmas remembrance cards The garden is beautiful in any season. Add your name or the name of someone you love in the Moreau Garden Book of Remembrance by sending the form below and a minimum donation of $200. Our novices and sisters remember each person named in the book in their daily prayers. Print name as it should appear in the book on the line below (up to 42 characters and spaces). If this gift is a tribute, please check one: in honor of in memory of If you would like a card sent informing someone that this name will be included in the Book of Remembrance, please provide the name and address of the recipient below: Send a Garden Remembrance Card to: Name Address City State ZIP Donor s Information: Sign card from Address City State ZIP Daytime telephone method of payment - Moreau Garden Enclosed is my tax-deductible gift of $200 or more for each listing (up to 42 characters and spaces). Amount $ Check payable to: Sisters of the Holy Cross Credit card: Visa MasterCard Discover American Express Card # Expiration date Name on credit card (please print) Signature for credit card Here is the perfect Christmas gift! Give your family and friends the gift of prayer from the Sisters of the Holy Cross. Our 2014 Christmas remembrance card features a photograph of the Holy Family from the crèche that is used every Christmas in the Church of Our Lady of Loretto at Saint Mary s. The inside verse is from the poem Knowledge by Sister M. Dorothy Anne (Cahill), CSC. The cards will be personalized to tell your recipients that you have given a gift in their names and that they will be remembered in prayer throughout the year. (The amount of your gift is not revealed.) Your tax-deductible donation will help our Ministry With the Poor. You may order cards by: telephone: (574) ; website: click on Support Us, choose Memorial & Honor Cards; mail: use the form below. Card given by: Sign card from Address City State ZIP Daytime telephone Send a Christmas card to: Recipient s Name Address City State ZIP Christmas greeting in memory of (please list additional recipients on separate paper) method of payment - Christmas cards Amount $ Check payable to: Sisters of the Holy Cross Credit card: Visa MasterCard Discover American Express Card # Expiration date Name on credit card (please print) Signature for credit card Tear out at perforation The Chapel of Loreto The Chapel of Loreto is the first permanent chapel on the campus of Saint Mary s in Notre Dame, Indiana. A replica of the Holy House of Loreto, it was built at the request of our founder, Blessed Basil Anthony Moreau, because of his devotion to this shrine in Loreto, Italy. According to a very ancient tradition, the Nazareth home of Mary is preserved in the Shrine of the Holy House of Loreto. In 1856, Mother M. Angela (Gillespie) contacted her brother, Father Neal Gillespie, CSC, and requested that he bring back from Italy the specifications of the shrine for the construction of its replica on Saint Mary s campus. The chapel was blessed by Father Edward F. Sorin, CSC, founder of the University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, and Mass was offered there on September 8, The Chapel of Loreto as it was before the Church of Loretto was built in The altar in the Chapel of Loreto at Saint Mary s, Notre Dame, Indiana. In the early archives of the congregation, there is a consistent spelling of Loreto, but from the time the present Church of Loretto was built in front of the chapel in 1886, both forms have occurred in archival writings. Today the church s name the Church of Our Lady of Loretto has yielded to English influence and is spelled Loretto. The chapel remains a facsimile of the Holy House of Loreto; hence, Chapel of Loreto. For over 150 years, Sisters of the Holy Cross and Saint Mary s College students have prayed at the chapel s beloved altar. Votive lamps, medals and mementos of thanksgiving have attested to devotion to Our Lady of Loreto in an unbroken and significant tradition. Through the years it was the custom of Saint Mary s College students to leave their gold college medals, chains and other treasures in the Chapel of Loreto to show their devotion to Mary. During the renovations of the chapel in 1956, all the gold medals and chains were melted down and used to cover the tabernacle s door. A single medal was kept intact and now resides symbolically over the tabernacle. Mail to: Sisters of the Holy Cross, Development Office Saint Mary s, 407 Bertrand Hall, Notre Dame, Indiana ; (574) fall / winter inspirit 23

13 100 Lourdes Hall Saint Mary s Notre Dame, Indiana Roadside scenes from Entebbe, Uganda TOP: Children pose for the camera on their way to school. ABOVE: Cattle search for places to graze. LEFT: A boy carries a large bundle of sticks. 24 inspirit fall/winter 2014