Fall 2012 - Sisters of Charity of St. Elizabeth

Fall 2012
www.SCNJ.org
A Publication of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth
Sister Students
Grace the Motherhouse
with their Presence
- Page 18
NEW Dimensions is the quarterly
magazine of the Sisters of Charity
of Saint Elizabeth who was founded
by Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, in
the spirit of Saint Vincent de Paul
and Saint Louise de Marillac, in
Emmitsburg, Maryland in 1809.
In 1859, Mother Mary Xavier
Mehegan founded the New Jersey
community known as the Sisters
of Charity of Saint Elizabeth.
Today the Sisters of Charity of
Saint Elizabeth are engaged in
education, health care, pastoral
and social service ministries in 23
dioceses within the United States
and El Salvador, Central America.
The
Congregation
currently
numbers 363 vowed members.
The Seton Associate relationship
has 270 affiliated lay and religious
women and men.
NEW Dimensions Staff
Editor/Director of
Communications
Donna Sartor-Halatin
Graphic Design/Layout
Scott Garibaldi
Council Liaison
Sister Joan Repka
Advisory Board Members
Sister Kathleen Koerner
Tina Lesher
Sister Noreen Neary
Sister Sharon Sage
Laura Winters
W
E
L
C
O
M
E
Dear All,
The issues surrounding immigration are complicated and
need to be understood from many different perspectives.
People immigrate for freedom, for peace, for the survival or
financial security of their families. Some come from countries
and situations that are acceptable to our laws. Some can’t wait
and find their way here in untimely ways in order to help those
they love to eat, survive, and have hope. Some find ways to
cope and succeed. Some are caught up in the judicial system
hopeless and alone. Others, due to poverty, trauma and or lack
of basic skills struggle daily to survive and strive toward their
goals.
This month’s NEW Dimensions highlights our sisters’
work helping immigrants work out legal and skill requirements for citizenship in North Carolina.
Students and sisters at Mother Seton High School in Clark, New Jersey, advocate for the basic
needs for undocumented immigrants who are incarcerated in the Elizabeth Detention Center
awaiting processing home or assistance with papers. Sister volunteers assist immigrant women
from many countries with English, literacy, skill development, socialization, parenting and spiritual
life at Josephine’s Place. A historic program at Saint Frances Residence and present programs at
Trinitas Hospital in Elizabeth and at WomenRising in Jersey City aid women immigrants to improve
work and personal skills.
You will learn about a collaborative program between the Sisters of Charity and the College of
Saint Elizabeth through which Sister students from Africa and Vietnam live with the sisters and
study education, finance and health care administration at the College of Saint Elizabeth in order to
gain the skills to develop necessary ministries to meet the needs of their people in their countries.
A special International and Multicultural Staff at the College leads these students and others from
countries around the world through a labyrinth of legal requirements and cultural adaptations.
And as always, we meet those wonderful, faithful supporters who so generously share of their
resources and time to support many of these important works. We thank you for joining us once
again as we share our journey with you.
Many blessings,
Sister Rosemary Moynihan - General Superior
Fall 2012
www.SCNJ.org
Letters to the editor, comments
and photos are welcome. The staff
reserves the right to edit for space
and readability. Make submissions to:
Sisters of Charity Communications
Office, P.O. Box 476, Convent
Station, NJ 07961-0476. Phone:
973-290-5345. Fax: 973-290-5337.
E-mail: escharity@scnj.org.
www.SCNJ.org
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A Publication of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth
On the cover:
Sister Students
Grace the Motherhouse
with their Presence
L To R –
Sister Oliveta Mwanawima (Tanzania)
Sister Christiana Ogundele (Nigeria)
Sister Gabriel Mary Donahue, S.C.
Sister M. Sang Trinh (Vietnam)
Sister Elizabeth Lima (Tanzania)
The Madres of Shallotte, North Carolina
by Sister Sharon Sage
“When an alien resides with you in your land, you shall not oppress the alien.
The alien who resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you; you shall
love the alien as yourself, for you were once aliens in the land of Egypt.”
(Leviticus 19:33-34)
Life can be hard for immigrants. Strangers in a strange land, they struggle with a new language, a new culture and seasonal employment. Often
they are unwelcome by the native population.Saint Brendan the Navigator Parish in Shallotte, N.C. shines as a paragon of welcome to the stranger,
especially to the immigrant. Everyone, from the pastor to the staff and parishioners, understands “welcome” as a powerful expression of Christian
love and practices it on a deep and abiding level.
Two Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth, Mary Teresa Orbegozo and Rosanne Caiazzo, have served there in Hispanic and immigration ministries
since 2007, doing more than reaching across natural barriers to welcome the stranger; they have worked tirelessly to tear down those barriers.
Sisters Rosanne and Mary Teresa are no strangers to the coastal plain of North Carolina. Sister Mary Teresa taught at Saint Egbert’s Catholic School
in Morehead City from 1965-1972 and Sister Rosanne worked with migrant workers in Newton Grove during the 1980’s through a federal program
providing health care to migrant workers along the East Coast. “We had very good experiences and loved the area,” noted Sister Rosanne, “so we
decided to take a nostalgia trip, and, unknown to us at the time, a providential trip to North Carolina in 2006.”
Sister Mary Teresa said she had just retired after 35 years from the Paterson, N.J. school system, when she and Sister Rosanne stopped in Shallotte
on seeing the uncommon sight of a Catholic church. They met a pair of La Salette priests who had recently come to serve Saint Brendan’s. The pastor
was desperate for a bilingual person to help serve the parish’s Hispanic community. “As soon as I opened my mouth he noticed my accent and offered
me a job,” laughed Sister Mary Teresa. “I guess God wanted to keep me busy in my old age, so he presented me with this wonderful opportunity.”
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She began her ministry there as Hispanic coordinator in January 2007 and quickly found that her
ability to adapt was a tremendous asset. “Not only was I a newcomer to parish work, responsible for
faith formation, including preparation for receiving the sacraments of Baptism and First Communion,
leading spirituality and prayer groups, even organizing special social events,” she explained, “but I also
found myself serving as a first-time social worker dealing with crisis intervention and immigration issues
regarding the ‘legality’ of our people.”
Sister Rosanne followed Sister Mary Teresa to Saint Brendan’s in June 2007. Along with many hours
per week devoted to her music ministry, she also taught English as a second language (ESL) at the local
community college, prepared immigrants for their citizenship test, worked with the parish’s passport
program, and helped immigrants with the 18-plus page application form for American citizenship. It
Sister Mary Teresa
was the “illegality” of her assistance with the application process that spurred her further adaptation
to the needs of the people and to the letter of the law. ”As a social worker I was used to helping people to understand and fill out forms,” said Sister
Rosanne, “but I was reprimanded by a local attorney for practicing law without a license. It seems that all immigration forms are considered to be
legal documents and only an attorney or an accredited person can legally assist in completing them.” Sister Rosanne contacted the U. S. Department
of Justice and set out on the path to accreditation as an Immigration Specialist, a.k.a. a Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) representative.
“I am now accredited and am sponsored by Catholic Charities in the Raleigh Diocese,” said Sister Rosanne, “serving an extensive area as there are
only two dioceses in all of North Carolina, and only four Catholic Charities sites in the Raleigh Diocese, each at least two hours distant from the next
in any direction.” Except for representing clients in court, Sister Rosanne can offer the services an immigration attorney would provide: interviewing
and advising clients, analyzing cases, preparing arguments based on law to promote the client’s case and representing clients in interviews with
immigration officers. Immigration attorneys from the North Carolina Justice Center in Raleigh provide consultation and supervision.
“I guess God wanted to keep me busy in my old age, so he
presented me with this wonderful opportunity.”
While Sister Mary Teresa’s working title may be Hispanic coordinator, she is more affectionately known as “La Madre.” Sister Rosanne explained
that religious sisters are referred to as Madres by people of Hispanic culture. “They call us both Madre, but Sister Mary Teresa is ‘La’ Madre as in
one-of-a-kind.” This term of endearment wasn’t idly given; it was earned through the many ways Sister Mary Teresa reaches out to people. “La Madre
is always working hard for us; we love her like a mother,” said a grateful parishioner.
As Hispanic coordinator, Sister Mary Teresa’s plate is overflowing. “The church is the center of activity for Hispanics,” she said. “There is always
something going on such as prayer groups, bible study, and choir practice, just to name a few.”
Three days a week she works on the church bulletin, handles paperwork, translates the pastor‘s homily and practices
with him on his pronunciation. One evening a week, plus Friday or Saturday, she
“The undocumented
works with the Youth Group and the cursillo groups. Her Sundays are busy with faith
There
formation classes after the Spanish Mass. She also “officiates” with the pastor at
really is little tolerance
Presentations, when 3-year-old children are presented to God, and at Quinceneras,
for them within the law,”
presenting 15-year-old girls to God.
suffer terribly.
When the economic crisis threw many women out of work as hotel housekeepers,
Sister Mary Teresa started a pool of women to clean houses. She got referrals from
Americans in the community and went with the Hispanic women on their initial visit
with prospective clients, helping them determine how much they should charge
Sister Rosanne Caiazzo
based on the size of the house and work required. “Now they are on their own,” she
proudly stated, “and are helping other women get jobs.”
said Sister Rosanne.
“They live in constant
fear of being deported.
Unfortunately there is
not always a solution
to a problem.”
The undocumented suffer terribly. There really is little tolerance for them within the law,” said Sister Rosanne. “They live in constant fear of being
deported. Unfortunately there is not always a solution to a problem.”
Sisters Mary Teresa and Rosanne cite joy in the immigrants’ grasp of the value of education for their children, even if the parents are working far
too many hours in keeping their family afloat to take advantage of education for themselves. “Of course we are very happy to have had the privilege
to help over 30 people achieve full U.S. citizenship,” said Sister Rosanne, “There are 40 more in process right now.” Sister Mary Teresa concurs. ”The
more we educate them and the more we are there for them during this transition from immigrant to citizen, the better citizens they will be.”
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Fall 2012
IRATE & First Friends Walk - Catherine Serzan, Kim Lahens and Monica Goncalves
Seton Spirit: A Spirit of Service
by Sister Noreen Neary
“I was so sorry last June because
I really didn’t want to leave.” That
would be a surprising statement from
most students, but not from Mary
McDermott, a senior at Mother Seton
Regional High School in Clark, N.J.
Mary was talking about the monthly
visits she and other Mother Seton
students make to Brighton Gardens,
a senior living community in nearby
Caitilin Conroy, right, gives a Brighton
Edison. Through their chapter of the
Gardens resident manicure
Glamour Gals Foundation, supervised by
Miss Joan Barron, assistant principal, the MSRHS students provide manicures and
beauty makeovers each month to the women residents of Brighton Gardens. Not
surprisingly both the younger and older women chat throughout the sessions and
frequently break into song. Junior Marialaina Nissenbaum said that last spring the
girls extended their services to patients in the Alzheimer’s Disease wing.
“They were so grateful,” Marialaina noted, “because so few volunteers go to
see these ladies. It’s so nice to be the cause of their smiles.”
Service at Mother Seton isn’t limited to glamour. Sister Jacquelyn Balasia,
assistant principal, easily lists the many ways that MSR students reach out to
local children and their families: preparing lunches for the soup kitchen at Saint
Joseph Social Service Center and serving as tutors and providing children’s books
at Bernice’s Place, both in Elizabeth; collecting blankets, toiletries, underwear,
socks, towels and coats for the homeless, and participating in Breast Cancer
Walks and the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. For more than 20 years
MSR students have volunteered at Camp Fatima, at a site in Lebanon, N.J.,
serving as counselors to children with developmental disabilities and providing
individualized care 24 hours a day. Sister Mary Anne Katlack, Campus Minister,
works with the girls to provide lunches for Saint Joseph’s and she also brings the
girls every week to tutor at Bernice’s Place; she is a tutor also.
Sister Jacquelyn notes with pride that, although there is no service requirement
at Mother Seton, more than 90% of the students are involved in activities that
help others.
On Ash Wednesday, MSR students in recent years have participated in the
IRATE & First Friends walk from Liberty State Park in Jersey City to the Detention
Center in Elizabeth. IRATE & First Friends is an organization that upholds the
humanity and dignity of all immigrants and advocates for those asylum-seekers
detained because their immigration status is lacking, often despite their efforts
to obtain legal status in the United States. The Ash Wednesday experience – the
10-mile walk, followed by a prayer service – has had a tremendous impact on the
Mother Seton students as evidenced in their comments:
America really should be a beam of hope for people who are looking for a place
that is safe and accepting.
Instead of focusing on the cold and on the long walk, I was so happy to give a
little part of myself for those people who have nothing.
I have always been interested in human rights, but I never felt that, as a high
school student, I could do anything about it. [Through the walk] I felt that I actually
had power to do something, that together we will be heard and that we can
change how immigrants are treated.
“We hope to instill in our students the belief that, when they leave Mother
Seton, they will make a difference in our world,” says Sister Jacquelyn.
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the school’s patron, was a woman who made a
difference in the 19th century through education and service to the poor. Her
daughters in Clark are carrying on that tradition, shaping the Setonian mission to
meet the needs of the 21st century.
This Brighton Gardens resident is lucky enough to get a manicure from two girls,
Emily Bledsoe and Marialaina Nissenbaum (l to r)
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Sister Mary Elizabeth Dacey helps Gloria S. Leiva learn English
(l to r) Sister Elena Francis Arminio,
Sisters Have Long History In Helping Immigrants
by Sister Edna Francis Hersinger, Coordinator of Sister Volunteers
Looking back in the history of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth,
we recognize ties to immigrants beginning with our foundress, Mother
Mary Xavier Mehegan, born Catherine Mehegan in Skibbereen, Ireland,
in 1825. Catherine and her sister were among the many immigrants who
left Ireland, which was already suffering from poverty, when the potato
crop failed.
From our earliest days in New Jersey, our Sisters served immigrant
peoples, especially women and children. The early schools we staffed
were located in areas where many families had their roots in Europe.
Interestingly, Saint Vincent Parish in Madison, where the sisters early on
staffed a school, had many residents descended from the French soldiers
who fought with George Washington and then remained here. Many Irish
people also came to the area. Besides having schools, several of our
missions also had residences for orphans or working women.
In 1904, when doctors saw a need for a Catholic hospital for women
in Elizabeth (which already had Alexian Brothers Hospital for men), they
turned to the Sisters of Charity who opened Saint Elizabeth Hospital (now
Trinitas Regional Medical Center). At that point, Elizabeth was described
as having a “shifting population --- especially of Polish, Lithuanians, Irish,
Germans, Hungarians, et al.” All of our hospitals began and continue
in multi-cultural areas, with populations equally, but perhaps differently
diverse. So it seems fitting that Sisters of Charity involved in volunteer
service would also minister with and to diverse populations.
When you walk into the storefront, drop-in center for women,
Josephine’s Place in Elizabeth, you are greeted cordially by Sister Judy
Mertz, her staff and the women involved in the opportunities offered
there. Several Sisters of Charity and Seton Associates volunteer,
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assisting with English lessons, computer lessons, quilting, crocheting
and knitting classes as well as with other services. Sister Mary Ellen
Healy and Sister Mary Elizabeth Dacey provide English as a Second
Language (ESL) lessons.
Almost nine years ago, Sister Mary Ellen began volunteering two
days a week at Josephine’s Place. When she says she likes to teach,
you know she really means it because she had previously taught ESL at
Seton Center in Jersey City. In Elizabeth, Sister Judy asked that lessons
begin because women who came to Josephine’s Place expressed a need
for them. Sister Mary Ellen gladly responded, bringing her skills and past
experience to the task. She was happy to see that spelling, language and
reading skills were integrated in the books being used. . .She found that
having an English-Spanish dictionary on cell phones helped the women.
Currently she is teaching women from Ecuador, Colombia and Uruguay.
Many programs include women from as many as eight countries.
Sister Mary Ellen notes how the women have benefited greatly, developing
more confidence in themselves as they learn to speak English. The groups
that bonded most and were supportive of each other seem to have benefited
the most. Those who were most faithful to their commitment to attend
classes, in addition to caring for their children and holding jobs, made great
progress. Some have expressed delight that they can talk directly to their
children’s teachers or make doctors’ appointments without the help of an
interpreter. In fact, some of the women now serve as interpreters for others
at Josephine’s Place, at schools and agencies. Some of the women also
learned how to use computers. With their skills in sewing, computers and
English conversation, women are taking steps to begin businesses.
It has been satisfying for Sister Mary Ellen to continue using her talents
Fall 2012
ncis Arminio, SC, with sister students Oliveta Mwanawima and M. Sang Trinh
and experience and see the good outcome of her work in conjunction
with that of the others serving at Josephine’s Place. “It’s a very positive
place,” she says, adding that, “Those who come in feel very positive. The
women must feel fulfilled.”
Sister Mary Elizabeth brings to this ministry more than 50 years of
teaching experience in elementary and high schools, as well as in college.
Before “retiring,” she was teaching writing and tutoring at St. Peter’s
College, Jersey City State and Hudson Community College. Now, once
each week she goes to Elizabeth to teach English to Spanish-speaking
women from varied backgrounds and countries. Sometimes lessons are
one-on-one and other times with a small group. Sister prefers the group
because it allows for interaction among the women and more bonding.
“I meet the nicest people there,” she says, “interacting with the staff
and the women being tutored in this homey, pleasant setting. While
teaching, you learn.”
The learning includes putting faces on
reality of immigration, and appreciating
backgrounds of the women. Sister affirms
been enriched through her experience at
Other members of the Congregation are also
newcomers to America.
the concept and
the cultures and
that her life has
Josephine’s Place.
active in assisting
The College of Saint Elizabeth serves many international students.
Sister Elena Francis Arminio, a former faculty member, serves as a
volunteer tutor. Her language facility has helped her work with many of
the college students, including sister students who come from varied
countries, live at our motherhouse, and complete degrees at CSE. She
has also translated the Josephine’s Place brochure into Spanish, as well
as materials for use by Sister Maryanne Tracey at the Elizabeth Coalition
to House the Homeless.
Sister Mary Ellen Healy translates from Spanish to English for Ivone Rosas
At Saint Anne Villa, tutoring has been provided for staff members
needing assistance with English or preparation for the citizenship exam.
Sister Patricia Mary McMullen has worked with several employees to
improve their English. Sister Peggy Hewitt has done this also. Sister
Barbara Brown, a resident at the Villa, and Sister Joan Wickers have
begun to assist employees as they prepare to take the citizenship exam.
These Sisters tap into their past years in education. Sister Barbara also
brings experience from tutoring at Josephine’s Place.
The Sisters mentioned here are just a sample of Sisters of Charity
assisting people from other countries to adjust to life in the United
States, as they are enriched themselves through these interactions.
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Saint Elizabeth Hospital 1900s
Trinitas Regional Medical Center Campus
Responding to the
Call of the Times
by Donna Sartor-Halatin
The opening of Saint Elizabeth Hospital on May 30, 1905, was the
response of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth to the lack of healthcare
for women and children in the City of Elizabeth.
The Sisters faced the realization that Elizabeth was a city of shifting
population, including Polish, Italian, Lithuanian, Irish, German, Hungarian
and other residents. With the approval of Bishop John J. O’Connor of
Newark in 1904, property was purchased at 204 South Broad Street.
This first Saint Elizabeth Hospital had 25 beds. Water was brought in
from a well in the backyard. Sisters drove a horse and buggy throughout
the surrounding communities for vegetables and visited the Newark
market twice weekly in a borrowed truck to purchase supplies. During
the first year of Saint Elizabeth Hospital’s operation, 140 patients were
admitted to the hospital and 68 surgeries were conducted. Many patients
were brought to the hospital in an ambulance drawn by two white horses.
Fast forward to January 2000, following the consolidation of Saint
Elizabeth Hospital and Elizabeth General Medical Center (and relocations
and renovations), to Trinitas Regional Medical Center, a full-service
healthcare facility serving those who live and work in Eastern and Central
Union County. Operating on two major campuses, TRMC offers stateof-the-art medicine backed by compassion and competence. The City of
Elizabeth continues to boast marvelous diversity, resulting in a wide range
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Sister Clare Maureen Tracy in Saint Elizabeth’s X-Ray Department (1956)
still serves the sick today
of culture and heritage. Its people represent more than 50 countries and
37 language groups.
According to Trinitas’ Health Mission, “As a Catholic healthcare
organization dedicated to God’s healing mission, Trinitas is committed to
improving the health status of the people and communities we serve.”
The scene, the players, and the technology may have changed and
evolved throughout the past 107 years, but the dedication, the compassion,
the mission and the Sisters of Charity have remained faithful to the vision
established on the day that the doors were opened to the public in 1905.
Sister Clare Maureen Tracy is a perfect example of this statement. Sister
began her ministry caring for the sick and the poor in 1956 at Saint Elizabeth
Hospital where she worked as an X-ray technician, servicing many patients,
including cancer patients whom she prayed with and comforted. Fifty-six
years later, Sister Clare Maureen continues to comfort, pray and minister to
the sick and the poor as a volunteer at Trinitas Regional Medical Center!!
Fall 2012
Today, Sister Roseann Mazzeo, continues a similar ministry to women at
WomenRising, Inc., in Jersey City, N.J. Sister Roseann, Executive Director
of WomenRising since 2006, has been involved with the agency for more
than two decades, having served on the Board of Directors.
Saint Frances Residence
The late 19th century witnessed the continuing growth and progress
of “Silk City” – Paterson, N.J. Some workers in the silk mills and other
factories were alone, having left their families and friends behind in other
parts of the United States or in foreign countries.
Out of concern for the particular housing needs of single young women,
Paterson’s Rev. William (Dean) McNulty requested that the Sisters of
Charity of Saint Elizabeth provide the staff for a “home for working girls.”
Located in a vacant convent at 393 Main St. in Paterson, the Saint Frances
Residence was opened on Jan. 1, 1897.
The popularity and necessity of Saint Frances blossomed quickly, because
in a short time, property was purchased on the eastern side of nearby
Jackson Street (#25 today) and a new “Saint Frances Home for Working
Girls” was opened in April, 1900. The three-story brick building became home
to a growing number of women who worked at various jobs throughout the
community. In 1906, the building on Jackson Street was purchased by the
Sisters of Charity. To accommodate additional residents, a two-story adjoining
building was secured, another floor was added and a connecting corridor to
the main building was constructed.The Sisters of Charity sponsored and
staffed the residence for more than 107 years until its closing in 2004.
Sister Roseann Mazzeo
Following the Civil War, the national YWCA provided residences for
women who had come to the cities in search of work. Recognizing that the
women needed jobs as well as housing, the national YW established job
training programs, initiating the first typewriting instruction for women,
the first sewing machine classes and the first employment bureau for
women in the 1870’s. Colgate Palmolive was instrumental in building
the YW residence to accommodate the many immigrant women coming
to work in their Jersey City factory. Founded in 1905, the development
of the Jersey City organization in the 20th century mirrored that national
pattern until the 1970’s when changing socio-economic conditions
challenged the YW to address the needs of an increasingly diverse and
economically poor population.
The disaffiliation from the YWCA and the name change to WomenRising,
Inc. in 2001, Sister Roseann says, “was the result of a long process…
recognition that our agency had evolved and that the name WomenRising
more aptly represented that evolution.” She notes that the agency’s
focus on women is the common thread. “While the expression of the
mission has changed over time to meet women’s changing needs, its
core remains.”
The present location of WomenRising was formerly the home of the
Jersey City YWCA since 1927. The YWCA met the needs of Hudson County
women in the 20th century, while WomenRising continues to meet those
21st-century needs. Governed and managed by women, WomenRising
assists women and their families to achieve self-sufficiency and live
safe, fulfilling and productive lives, through social services, economic
development and advocacy services. For more information, visit
www.womenrising.org.
The home of WomenRising, Inc. in Jersey City
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(l to r) Sister Eileen Dolan and
Patricia O’Brien, Seton Associate
Meet Seton Associate
Patricia O’Brien
by Rosemary Lalevée Carroll, Director of Seton Associates
Q: What is your ministry at Saint Anne Villa?
A: I spend time sitting with elderly sisters at dinner, chatting with them,
encouraging them to eat and sometimes helping them to eat. I keep them company.
Most times I stay a little later if a particular sister wants to talk a little longer.
Q: How often do you do this?
A: Since February, I have been going there once or twice a week, sometimes
once every other week.
Q: What takes place during a typical visit?
A: I go to the dining room where a group of maybe 20 sisters are seated
around a large table. Several are in wheelchairs. Some evenings I am assigned
to a specific sister, other times I go and sit with a sister who needs help or
companionship. While I help the sister to finish her meal – that may take more
than one hour – we have a grand conversation.
Q: How is this ministry important to you?
A: Well, I know I am there to make the time special for the sisters, but it makes
me feel absolutely wonderful. It is truly satisfying to be able to assist sisters at
this time in their journey. They all, every one of them, devoted their lives and
talents to serving others. Some were college professors, elementary school
teachers, nurses or worked in social services or in foreign countries. All have
the most amazing stories. It is such a privilege for me to sit and chat with them.
I love Sister Eileen Dolan who taught at Saint Margaret’s School in Morristown
– I knew her back then – and she remains such a wonderful person. She is an
inspiration to me.
Q: How do you see the face of Christ in the sisters?
A: When I visit with a sister, I do not see an old woman. I see an extraordinary,
accomplished woman who lived a fulfilling life in service to our God, a woman
who was and is deeply religious. I see in her face the grace that carried her
through the years of her vocation. That grace is the face of Christ.
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Saint Mary’s Orphan
Do You Remember Saint Mary
by Sister Mary Ce
In 1853, Saint Mary’s Orphanage housed 15 orphans — after
1859 when the Sisters of Charity were asked to minister there,
the home sheltered more than 75 children and grew from there.
Saint Mary’s Orphanage was located in the Vailsburg section
of Newark, N.J. Children who were removed from their homes
because of improper or inadequate home care were brought to
the Orphanage sponsored by Catholic Charities. Some came in
search of permanent residence, and some on a temporary basis.
In the early 1960’s, wealthy Cuban immigrants sent their children
ahead to the U.S.. Some found shelter at St. Mary’s until they
were able to buy their own migration.
One 19 year old, newly-vowed, Sister of Charity strongly
desired to be missioned at Saint Mary’s Orphanage. Coming from
a prized home life, all she wanted to do was to give the love she
had in her heart to these children who were deprived of affection
and attention.
That nun was Sister Mary Celine Laskey who credited her
early spiritual formation to having been immersed in the innocent
suffering of children. She began her ministry at Saint Mary’s in
1949, a friend, a teacher, an activities coordinator, a practical
nurse, a musician and a chauffeur - 24/7.
“At that time our toy box consisted of one pack of playing
cards, a radio, and an upright piano missing several keys,” she
said, “Children would sit around that piano at night singing the
same songs over and over again, their favorite being ‘If I Knew
You Were Coming I’d Have Baked a Cake.’” Sunday recreation
consisted of sitting on the floor on cushions, with curtains and
drapes drawn, listening to One Man’s Family and The Shadow.
Notice of a change came to Sister Celine after 11 years at the
orphanage. Her new mission would be at Saint Augustine’s School
Fall 2012
Mary’s Orphanage in Vailsburg
Mary’s Orphanage In Vailsburg?
er Mary Celine Laskey
in Union City, N.J. Broken-hearted, but certain of her call, she
remembers with great joy and appreciation the Saint Augustine’s
community of seven sisters. After four years there, she returned
to Saint Mary’s for an additional six years. Saint Mary’s Residence
for Children (which it was later called) eventually closed because
of the changes in family therapy and treatment, and a lack of
placement. To this day she still keeps in touch with some of the
children, who are now adults with children and grandchildren of
their own. She says that ‘lives are eternally entwined.’
Sister Celine has fond memories of her years at Saint Mary’s
Sister Celine now volunteers at the North Jersey Development
Center in Totowa, N.J., as a friend and sharing her skills as a Music
Therapist. “Music has woven a symphony of charity through my
entire life; if you can make someone’s life a little less lonely for
one hour a day. . .that’s a blessing!” she says. “The path set for
my journey began with the companionship of innocent suffering
little ones – the Anawim – God’s chosen. Only hospitality and
presence siphon some of human pain. We walk on intending to
be home-makers for the orphans of life’s storm,” sister concludes.
Sister Celine with the children at Saint Mary’s Orphanage in 1949
Sister Celine discussing landscaping with John P. Caufield,
Newark Fire Director - Vailsburg Leader - June 29, 1967
11
guidance, lodging and of course, a plan to carry out Catherine’s wish to enter
a religious order. Catherine and Margaret worked as needlewomen for a
while until Margaret met her husband and settled in a home in New York.
On February 16, 1847, Catherine Josephine Mehegan entered the
novitiate of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul at the New York
motherhouse. In 1858, there was a thought of a separate motherhouse for
the New Jersey diocese, organized by Bishop James Roosevelt Bayley.
Seven sisters were chosen to join this new venture for a five-year trial
period. After that, two sisters decided to make the New Jersey branch of
the Sisters of Charity their home. Those sisters were Mother Mary Xavier
and Sister Mary Catherine Nevin.
Not knowing what hardships awaited her, not sure of the outcome
of the undertaking, but relying on God’s sustaining power once again,
Mother Xavier sacrificed her love and life for her love of God, similar to the
circumstances that led her to leave Ireland more than 20 years prior. The
rest is history. . .
Left: Prudentia Osuji at home in Nigeria
Right: Sister Prudentia Osuji, S.C.
Our Sisters Who
Came to America
by Donna Sartor-Halatin
Throughout time, immigrants have shaped the history of the United
States, and many individuals still flock to the U.S. today to seek political
freedom and the opportunity to achieve their goals. America remains a land
of opportunities, and because many foreigners from all over the world come
to live in the U.S., cultural diversity is cited as one of the country’s strengths.
The Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth are no strangers to immigration
and immigration issues. Aside from the obvious, such as ministering in
areas with high immigrant population, working with immigrants to help
them to achieve citizenship, and helping immigrants learn skills that will
allow them to make a smoother transition into American culture, they also
have members of their community who have migrated from other countries.
Two of these sisters are highlighted here: the foundress of the Sisters
of Charity of Saint Elizabeth, Mother Mary Xavier Mehegan, and one of
the newest members of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth, Sister
Prudentia Osuji.
Catherine Josephine Mehegan, or Mother Mary Xavier, as she is better
known today, was born in Cork, Ireland, in February 1825, the youngest of
eight children. The childhood of Catherine was a foreshadowing of what
was to be her destiny: prayer, a desire to serve others, and dedication to
the service of others.
Although Mother Xavier never discussed her reasons for leaving Ireland
in early 1842, she did slip away from home one morning with her sister
Margaret on a venturesome journey to serve God. Catherine and Margaret
managed to get a spot on a sailing vessel docked in the harbor that would
secure passage to America. The journey was long and tedious across the
Atlantic, but they finally reached the Port of New York in the spring of 1842.
When they arrived, they immediately sought out a priest to give them
12
Fast forward to 1955 in Nigeria. On September 3, a girl was born into
the Osuji family. The baby was baptized Austen Bernadine. Today, she is
known as Sister Prudentia Osuji, SC.
She grew up and lived in a simple world. By American standards, her life
could be described as one of poverty and hardship. However, her life was
rich in ways that many probably couldn’t understand. One of the riches was
her family members’ faith in God, a faith that sustained them in the good
times and the difficult times.
Years later, when their Civil War ended, she asked her parents if she
could go to America with a friend, but they said, “No! Now is not the time.”
Though disappointed, Prudentia returned to her Nigerian home and took
a test similar to a GED so she could further her education. She took and
passed the entrance exams for the convent school. There she was taught by
the Daughters of Mary, Mother of Mercy (DMMM). The sisters’ life of love
and caring fascinated her. The charism of charity touched Prudentia’s heart.
Not long after, she was accepted as a member of the DMMM.
In 1990, her religious community missioned her to Denver, Colorado,
where she obtained her master’s degree in pastoral care and her certificate
in religious education at Saint Thomas Seminary. While studying, she
worked as a Certified Nurse’s Aide in a nursing home. Just before 1994, the
Superior of the DMMMs received a request from Sister Maeve McDermott,
SC, for sisters to minister in the Catholic Schools of Jersey City, N.J. Sister
Prudentia heard the voice of God in this request and responded with an
enthusiastic, “Yes.” Thus, began Sister Prudentia’s relationship with the
Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth.
Today, in her present ministry in Pastoral Care at Trinitas Regional
Medical Center in Elizabeth, Sister Prudentia faces challenges daily with
immigrants and undocumented patients and their families. Some of the
patients who come from the Elizabeth detention center are escorted by
police or guards and are frightened when they arrive at the hospital. They
immigrate to the U.S. for a better life and end up depressed, disappointed
and hopeless. As a chaplain, Sister Prudentia, and the staff, offer
consolation and encouragement, and offer them prayers if they wish.
“I wish they could always be treated as human beings with
dignity, love and compassion,” she exclaims.
Fall 2012
Memorial Stone To
Mother Xavier
In August 1998, the Sisters of Charity dedicated a memorial
stone to Mother Xavier, the founder of the Sisters of Charity
of Saint Elizabeth, in Skibbereen, Co. Cork, Ireland. Born
in Skibbereen in 1825, Mother Xavier emigrated from
Ireland to the United States at the age of seventeen. The
memorial is located in the Abbey Cemetery near the site
of a mass grave of victims of An Gorta Mor (the great
hunger) that ravaged Ireland in the mid-19th century.
(Pictured here is Sister Maryanne Tracey)
Mother Mary Xavier Mehegan
13
Development Office 2012 Events
Elizabeth “Betty” Dangler
Helping the Sisters of Charity
Carry Out Their Mission Of Love
Elizabeth “Betty” Dangler attended Sacred Heart Grammar School
in Rochelle Park, Saint Joseph High School in Paterson and the
College of Saint Elizabeth in Convent Station. She is truly grateful for
the education she received from the Sisters of Charity.
“My first contact with the Sisters of Charity was in grammar
school,” Betty said, “and I remember how I tried so hard to be on
my best behavior so that I would be chosen to help the sister at
the candy closet at recess time. The sisters were a mystery to me,
dressed in their long black habits and veils. As I got to know them
better, and worked with them on after-school projects, I learned to
appreciate each one’s individual style and personality. The thing they
had in common was their great love of education and the students
they taught.”
Elizabeth “Betty” Dangler
“I was born in 1930, the
youngest of seven children.
We attended grade school
staffed by your Sisters of
Charity. We were very poor
and the first “Slovaks” in
our family, who migrated
here, to attend school.
The sisters always showed
us their kindness and
generosity. I will forever be
thankful to the Sisters of
Charity, especially those of
my past.”
Mr. George Anthony, Texas
14
When asked what the Sisters of Charity meant to her, she singled
out their unconditional love reflected in their selfless service, “always
giving and never asking for anything in return.”
While Betty was a College of Saint Elizabeth student pursuing a
degree in Art History and Secondary Education, she volunteered to work
with the sisters in the inner city. “I witnessed firsthand this unconditional
love as they served the poor without ever counting the cost.”
One of the things for which she is grateful to the sisters is the fact
that “they encouraged me to move beyond my comfort zone and use
my talents and abilities without being afraid. I owe them for helping
me to grow into a mature woman of character, independence and
self- confidence”.
Betty is the president and owner of Dangler Funeral Homes, Inc.,
in Madison and Morris Plains and president of Catalyst 4 Action, a
life and transition coaching firm. She also has served in managerial
positions at Crum & Forster and the Chubb Group.
Betty supports the Sisters of Charity as a member of the Board of
Trustees of the College of Saint Elizabeth, Co-Chair of the college’s
Annual Scholarship Benefit, member of the Sisters of Charity
Development Board, and a member of the Sisters of Charity Annual
Golf Outing Committee. She is also active in promoting the Annual
Spring Lake Luncheon and the Harvest Festival
“I feel it is important to help the sisters carry out their mission of
love which is so deeply rooted in Boundless Charity. I ask that you take
time to think about how the Sisters of Charity have impacted your life
and then to ponder how you can support the sisters by sharing your
time, talent or treasure and help to continue the mission of Charity.”
Golf Outing 2
The Sisters of Charity annua
Westfield, N.J. With the comb
Ellen V. Kelly and their committ
The picture-perfect weather
golfers and volunteers alike. Ev
shotgun tee-off.
Longtime benefactors Bob a
Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. Unfortuna
hole. The lovely evening allowe
concluded with a silent auction
The golf outing is one of thre
cost of maintaining Saint Anne
Top - (l to r) Barbara Ruane, Sister M
Bottom Left - John Kilduff, Maddie G
Bottom Right - Seated, Joan and Joh
Fall 2012
“The Sisters of Charity have a special charism of
teaching and leading. These are very inspiring
women – true Gospel people!”
Fr. Hugh Murphy, New Jersey
ting 2012
harity annual golf outing on June 18 was held at the Echo Lake Country Club in
th the combination of a new location and the hard work of Co-Chairs Vince Gilligan and
heir committee, more than 100 golfers helped to make the outing a huge success!
ect weather enhanced the beauty of the golf course and added to the enjoyment of
ers alike. Everyone enjoyed a delicious brunch on the patio before gathering for a
ctors Bob and Elaine Robertazzi were the Hole-In-One Sponsors and donated a 2012
d. Unfortunately, there was no winner; the closest ball got within two feet of the
ening allowed everyone to again gather at the patio for the cocktail hour. The evening
ilent auction, a 50-50 raffle, prize auction and a delicious buffet.
s one of three major events that generate funds to help the Sisters of Charity defray the
Saint Anne Villa, their home for retired and infirm sisters.
uane, Sister Mary Morley, Sister Elizabeth Holler and Gerry Frungillo
duff, Maddie Gilligan, Vince Gilligan, Co-Chair, Sister Patricia Mennor and Karen Kilduff
Joan and John Laezza - standing, Halina Picklo and Fr. Krzysztof Maslowski
“Throughout my life, the Sisters of Charity I have known have stood as the
embodiment of the Gospel message. Many of the values I hold dear, not only
of faith but also the values of education and critical thinking, were instilled
in me by the smart and caring members of this community.”
Mrs. Meridyth Burrows, New Jersey
Amy Fine Collins Entertains Spring Lake Guests
The annual Spring Lake Luncheon sponsored by the Sisters of Charity was held on June 5 at the Spring Lake Bath
and Tennis Club.Amy Fine Collins, Special Correspondent for Vanity Fair Magazine and author of several books, was the
guest speaker.
The format featured a talk show interview segment with time for questions from the guests. Elaine Robertazzi, a longtime supporter of the Sisters of Charity, with her own flair for fashion, acted as moderator and emcee.
Amy was asked about her life interests and what led her to follow a career in the fashion world. She also discussed
her family, her great interest in the field of art history, and her work in promoting awareness of the crime of human
trafficking. Amy shared a brief explanation of the creation of the Best-Dressed List that appears annually in Vanity Fair
Magazine. Amy is a regular on this list.
Luncheon guests asked questions regarding skills needed for entering the fashion industry, styles and trends, and ageappropriate clothing. All went home with many hints on how they too can upgrade their fashion skills and perhaps one
day make the Best-Dressed List!
Top - Amy Fine Collins • Middle - (l to r) Sister Rosemary Moynihan, Amy Fine Collins, Sister Marilyn Thie
Bottom - Amy Fine Collins and Elaine Robertazzi
15
Newly-arrived international CSE students and their peer advisors (l to r): Zainab Yusofi (Afghanistan), Blen Tesfay (Ethiopia), Nastasya Tsultsomova, Peer Advisor (Russia)
Laura Patterson (Northern Ireland), Megan Riordan, Peer Advisor (Wisconsin), Veronica Mupazviriwo (Zimbabwe), Zahra Yusofi (Afghanistan), Tadjana Desauguste,
Peer Advisor (New Jersey), Phone Myat Tharaphy, Peer Advisor (Myanmar) (photo taken by Maya Sarno)
An Interview with
Lenee Woodson
Director of International and
Multicultural Affairs
Maya Sarno
Assistant Director of
Multicultural Affairs
in the Office of International and Multicultural Affairs at the College of Saint Elizabeth.
interviewed by Sister Barbara Conroy, Director of Sponsorship and Mission Services
Q: You are both involved in interesting work at CSE – how did you come to be doing work with International
students here at the College of Saint Elizabeth?
A: Lenee: I attended Rosemont College in Pa and received a BA degree there. I was a Resident Assistant. I received a M.Ed. degree at Widenor University
and worked at a for-profit college with foreign students. Four years ago I came back to NJ. Actually, I attended the Academy of Saint Elizabeth in the 80’s and am
a Madison native – so I’m “paying it forward” in my current role as Director of International and Multicultural Affairs.
Maya: I’ve been at CSE for two years as the Assistant Director for Multicultural Affairs. After completing my undergraduate work at Butler University in
Indiana, I worked for the Jesuit Volunteer Corps as a recruiter. That job took me to college campuses. I loved the values of that program, but more importantly,
the contact with college students; I received an MA in Counseling from Montclair University and joined the OIC Affairs two years ago. Our work brings us into
contact with a variety of offices within the Student Services Division of the College.
Q: How do you think that the President’s Executive Order issued in June will impact your work and the lives of the students?
A: . It certainly stirred the pot! It may have high impact. Certainly, there is a lot of awareness around the issues facing International students. Our job is
to provide information and opportunities for conversations – to shine a light on the issues. We try to be pro-active about providing information and insight
to our young women; in fact it is our mission to do so and fits in with the Mission of the College which emphasizes personal attention to the needs of each
student. This Executive Order is a major shift in immigration policy enforcement and is granted to an eligible individual who can demonstrate that she:
came to the United States under the age of sixteen; has continuously resided here for five years; is currently in school and graduated from high school
or received a GED certificate; has not been convicted of a felony offense, or posed a threat to national security; is not above the age of thirty. This action
and the DREAM Act impacts not only students, who may or may not come forward to discuss their situation, but also students’ families. Whether they
feel able to openly discuss these issues depends on cultural and family attitudes. We work to provide a safe place where students can talk. Immigration
16
Fall 2012
problems present a huge challenge to these college students who cannot get jobs after graduation. We need to give these students the tools they need to
deal with this and with additional challenges they meet. These are students who have worked hard, gotten degrees, and face the potential challenge of
not getting a job.
Q: In addition to the effect of culture shock and other issues, do you assist International students with their
personal difficulties?
A
: Because we have close working relationships with other Student Services Offices we are able to offer students referrals to other offices in addition
to our being “listening ears”. It’s the same for all students on the campus – we evaluate their needs and then provide the appropriate referral for
services. International students are also affected by what is happening in their home countries. The spirit of the CSE campus is characterized by strong
relationships between students and professionals.
Q: Does your work involve significant contact with government agencies?
A: Yes, indeed! The international population is approximately 5% of the student body at CSE. Many of the students are here on Student Visas, others
on Work Visas, and others are spouses of someone working here. Our office has the responsibility to track students, their educational progress, and their
work. Course loads are regulated for both Undergraduate and Graduates as is their work status. There are stringent regulations about where and how
long students can work and a tracking system to monitor both. Colleges must be certified and government approved to accept International students and
are responsible for reporting on them while they are attending school and for a time period after they have completed their degrees. The visa status of
students is established before they actually come to the College and is monitored to prove that the status is being maintained.
Q: CSE has students from many different parts of the world – are there common cultural barriers?
A: It’s easy to generalize; however, the truth is that there are great distinctions among all groups. We have a number of Asian students. Some from
China, Japan, Vietnam. There is variance in the degree of assimilation and in the economic level in and among the groups. The one big barrier for all
students is American FOOD. Not only the kind of foods, but portions, and so many choices. MEDICATIONS can also be a problem - there is difference in
the strength of medications. Basic COMMUNICATION, PERSONAL SPACE, BODY SPACE, CONNECTIVITY to families back home.
Q: You both are very energetic and well versed about your work with the International students at the College of
Saint Elizabeth - can you share your biggest challenges and rewards in this important work?
A: Maya: There are so many differences that need to be adequately addressed to be sure that everyone is included, no one is overlooked. I try to
determine the correct issues to bring forward with students to foster their development of cultural identity in the face of the many challenges they meet
– use of time, on the job, family. What guides my work is the CSE spirit, taking time for individuals. From the President on down, it is an holistic approach,
both in and out of the classroom. I keep asking myself “Do these students have any idea of what I’m talking about?” Another challenge is keeping up with
technology. The use of social media on campus is huge.
As to rewards of my work- the highpoint of the year is International Night, an annual evening
event to showcase cultural customs, entertainment, international foods. An event that the
faculty and students look forward to every year. There is also an awareness component related
to a significant, societal issue affecting one of the home country’s of the students, for example
the Tsunami in Japan, the earthquake in Haiti. It is a long night of celebration of life, the
culmination of the activity of the year and provides the college community the opportunity to
show support for some event going on in the world.
Lenee: I’m rewarded by the amazing opportunity to collaborate with other Student Life
Division programs and offices and working with the other side of the house, having the
opportunity to get involved with faculty and students in what they are doing on the academic
side. It is making sure that IN LOCO PARENTIS really is actualized. That only happens when
collaboration is real, effective to get the whole picture of the life of the students. Students
thrive when there are so many persons looking out for them. I look forward to changes in
the General Education program at CSE which will include an infusion of the Multi-Cultural
Framework.
(l to r) Lenee Woodson and Maya Sarno welcome the international and
multicultural students to CSE
17
Standing – Sister Oliveta Mwanawima (Tanzania), Sister Elizabeth Lima (Tanzania),
Seated – Sister Christiana Ogundele (Nigeria), Sister Gabriel Mary Donahue, S.C,
Sister M. Sang Trinh (Vietnam)
Sister Students
Grace the Motherhouse
with their Presence
by Sister Jean Stabile
It began in 1997 when Sister Prisca and Sister Agatha arrived from Africa to study at
the College of Saint Elizabeth and to live with the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth in
the Motherhouse. Ever since then, Sister Gabriel Mary Donahue, Adult Undergraduate
Advisor for the College of Saint Elizabeth (CSE), has been busier than usual guiding the
visiting sisters through many facets of their college life. Each year Sister Gabriel receives
letters from many different communities of sisters with requests for admission to the
college. Visiting sisters require a VISA from the U.S. Embassy and the Consulate in their
own countries before they are able to study at CSE. According to Sister Gabriel, sisters
from Nigeria, Tanzania and Vietnam are currently living in the Motherhouse in Convent
Station and are warmly welcomed for their prayerful, friendly and generous qualities. Over
the years, there have been a total of 21 sisters from various countries who have blessed
the Sisters of Charity residents with their presence.
After a meeting with Sister Francis Raftery, president of CSE, and the members of the
administration of the Sisters of Charity community, the decision was made that the College
would grant full scholarships, tuition and additional fees, to these visiting sister students.
The Sisters of Charity community would provide the students with room and board, books
and some other incidentals.
Over the years, additional funding has been provided to several sisters since some of
their communities could not afford a monetary contribution. Sister students give back to
the community by working on campus as student aides in Mahoney Library, weight room
supervisors in Saint Joseph Hall, assistants in the computer labs in Henderson Hall and as
guides in Maloney Art Gallery in Annunciation Center.
In Memoriam
Please visit “Remember Our Deceased
Sisters in Your Prayers” at www.SCNJ.org
for reflections on the Sisters of Charity
of Saint Elizabeth who died between
May 1, 2012 and September 15, 2012.
May our Sisters enjoy the fruits of their
labor as well as peace with their God.
Sister Josephine Mary Ricciuti
May 3, 2012
Sister Anne Bernard Kelly
June 19, 2012
Sister Margaret Gregory Marshall
June 23, 2012
Sister Anne Virginie Grimes
July 14, 2012
Sister Mary Xavier Casey
August 6, 2012
18
Fall 2012
SISTERS OF CHARITY WINDOW REPLACEMENT
PROJECT
HELP US REACH OUR GOAL!!
The Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth whose Motherhouse is located in
Convent Station, New Jersey, have been committed to the works of Charity for over
150 years. They continue to serve the needs of the people in education, healthcare,
social services, pastoral and church ministries. Many Sisters are now returning
home to live after serving in ministries within and beyond the United States.
4 MILLION
DOLLARS
$3,600,000
$3,200,000
$2,800,000
$2,400,000
$2,000,000
$1,600,000
$1,200,000
$1,004,500
$800,000
$400,000
With the safety and well-being of the sisters as
a priority and mindful of the responsibility to be good
stewards of our limited resources, the Congregation did
an in-depth assessment of the Motherhouse building. As a
result, the main area of concern was the need to replace 429
windows which date back to 1880 when the structure was first
built.
Sister Catherine Shea
The replacement of the windows will assure the sisters of
ease of operation, an environment free of lead paint and cracked
wood, secure window panes and frames, and more heat in the winter and
cool air in the summer.
The cost of the replacement of the windows is estimated to be four million dollars
and includes:
•
Removalandreplacementofthewindows
•
Leadpaintremoval
•
Interiorandexteriorwoodtrim
•
Scaffoldandlift
•
Windows
•
Specialweightandchainmechanism
Are you able to help? Please read more about the pledging opportunities for the window replacement project
on the homepage of our website www.SCNJ.org (Windows Campaign tab toward the bottom of the page) or call
the Development Office at 973-290-5409/5454 for more information.
We Would Like to Hear From You!
_____ Please add my name to the mailing list for NEW Dimensions.
_____ I am receiving duplicate copies of NEW Dimensions. Please remove ______________________.
_____ Please remove my name from the mailing list; I no longer wish to receive NEW Dimensions.
_____ Please send a copy of NEW Dimensions to the following person (please list name, full address and zip code):
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Send this completed form to: Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth, Communications Office,
P.O. Box 476, Convent Station, NJ 07961-0476 or e-mail your requests to escharity@scnj.org.
19
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit #1278
Caldwell, NJ
Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth
P.O. Box 476
Convent Station, NJ 07961-0476
www.SCNJ.org
Upcoming Events
Save the Date:
Harvest Festival
Hilton Short Hills
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Honorees: Caritas Award - James R. Prisco, Sr. and James R. Prisco, Jr.
Mehegan Award - Mary Ann Burgess Motiuk
Cathedral Sounds
Annual Christmas Concert
Holy Family Chapel
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Featuring The Masterwork Chorus Under the Direction of Andrew Megill
Fall 50/50 Raffle
Drawing takes place on
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
There will be 1st, 2nd & 3rd place winners
For all u
pcoming
events
please co
ntact:
The
Sisters o
f
zabeth D Charity of
evelopm
P.O. Box
ent Offic
476, Con
e
Saint Eli
vent Sta
tion, NJ
07961-0
-5454/54
476
09 • srch
arity@sc
nj.org
www.SC
NJ.org
973-290