FRANCISCAN The Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God

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1 The Whitehall Vol. 25, No. 3 FRANCISCAN The Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgresions it is by grace you have been saved. Ephesians 2:4-5

2 God s Mercy, Goodnes and Grace A message from General Minister Sister Joanne Brazinski, OSF The Lord, our God, is a God of tenderness and compassion, slow to anger, rich in kindness and mercy. (Exodus 34:6) In This Issue Message from our General Minister Childcare is in our Hearts Donor Appreciation Caring for Mom Sister Ann Marie Lostoski Sharing Our Mission Efforts to End Human Trafficking Spiritual Direction The Whitehall Franciscan is a quarterly publication of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God 3757 Library Road Pittsburgh, PA (412) facebook.com/osfprov Editorial Board: Sister Joanne Brazinski, OSF Sister Barbara Zilch, OSF Contributor: Nick Rodi Layout and Design: Robyn Moeller Proofreader: Sister Margaret Markey, OSF There are many quotes throughout Sacred Scripture that invite us to contemplate the goodness and mercy of our God; the above quote from Exodus, simply being one of them. This Jubilee Year of Mercy calls us not only to ponder the incredible love and mercy of our God, but it calls us as well to be mindful of how we are called to be merciful. When Pope Francis declared this special Jubilee Year of Mercy (December 8, 2015 to November 20, 2016) he said that the reason was because this is a favorable time to heal wounds - this is a time not to be weary of meeting all those who are waiting to see and to touch with their hands the signs of the closeness of God. This is the time to offer everyone, yes, everyone the way of forgiveness and reconciliation. Pope Francis emphasizes the need for the Church and all her members to manifest the loving mercy of our God. Now - that is quite a task! When you hear the word mercy what comes to mind? Some would say forgiveness or compassion, others might offer the words patience or tolerance. The Hebrew word hesed means God s loving kindness, God s covenant love. One of the most realistic descriptions of mercy I ve heard is that mercy is giving something to someone that they don t deserve. Think about God s infinite love and mercy for us - certainly we are receiving it. In spite of the fact that we don t deserve it - it is freely given. Recently I also came across this description: Mercy is entering into the chaos of another (James Keenan, SJ Works of Mercy: Heart of Catholicism). How often do we run from the chaos of another? Or even run from the chaos within ourselves? In Saint Francis of Assisi s Testament, he shares that The Lord Himself led me among the lepers and I had mercy on them. God leads us to be among those who need mercy, what is our response? Then in Francis Letter to the Minister he says I wish to know in this way that you love the Lord and me,... that there is not any brother (we might say any person) in the world who has wronged you who, after looking into your eyes, would ever depart without receiving your mercy. Did you ever realize how difficult it is to look into the eyes of another when we are upset with them? Mercy transforms. It changes the one who gives mercy as well as the one who receive mercy. We are called to embody God s mercy wherever we are and even in the darkest corners of our world. We are called to be merciful, to do mercy, to enter into the chaos of another. We are called to reflect God s mercy. How will you do that today? How Can I Share God s Mercy? The Catholic Church encourages the following corporal and spiritual works to extend God s love and Mercy to others. How can you engage in one - or several - of these works? Corporal Works of Mercy Feed the Hungry Give Drink to the Thirsty Clothe the Naked Shelter the Homeless Visit the Sick Visit the Imprisoned Bury the Dead Spiritual Works of Mercy Counsel the Doubltful Instruct the Ignorant Admonish Sinners Comfort the Sorrowful Forgive Offenses Bear Wrongs Patiently Pray for the Living and the Dead 2 Whitehall Franciscan

3 Childcare is in our Hearts The Franciscan Child Day Care Center Since the arrival of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God in Pittsburgh s South Hills, one constant has been their love and commitment to children. Today, that devotion continues through the Franciscan Child Day Care Center, located in the former St. Francis Academy in Pittsburgh. Established in 1982, the FCDCC is a loving expression of the Sisters who live and work so that all people may be united with God and one another. The love and commitment to the children who attend our day care center are palpable, says Mrs. Sandy Merlo, the center s director. The Center s programs are built on the philosophy that the first years of a child s life are a crucial development period and that children who are nurtured and stimulated during these years are much more prepared for formal education and are more likely to have the social skills needed to succeed in elementary school. Mrs. Merlo adds, We have a warm and friendly environment where all children of all faiths are welcome at our center. We know that all parents want the very best for their children, especially child care, and we strive to be that center that meets all of a concerned parent s needs. Our family daycare promotes cognitive, social and emotional development for healthy and happy children, says Mrs. Merlo. We prepare the little ones for kindergarten, offering a variety of fun and creative learning materials. She continues, We offer children a variety of experiences and activities designed to give them opportunities for selfdiscovery, exploration and the freedom to learn and create within a safe environment. The Center is a home away from home and offers comprehensive infant, toddler and preschool programs to meet the needs of children ages 6 weeks to 5 years of age. Our programs are stimulating, safe, and fun. Children are encouraged to think, reason, experiment, make choices, and develop self-help and practical skills, said Mrs. Merlo Center staff strive to keep lines of communication always. We value the relationships we have with our families and make it a priority to keep them involved with constant Sister Edward Urban s ministry includes volunteering to read to children at the Franciscan Child Day Care Center. She also teaches them songs, rhymes and a little bit of Portuguese, a language she mastered during her 47 years of ministry in Brazil. communications, says Mrs. Merlo. To be more specific, we believe that communication is the key to all our successes and I have an open-door policy for any question or concerns. In addition to the core programs for infants, toddlers and preschoolers, the FCDCC also offers before-and-after school care for elementary children through fifth grade, as well as an optional full-day program on school holidays. For the parent s convenience, busing is provided to and from Keystone Oaks and Baldwin-Whitehall school districts. There is also an exciting summer program for pre-k through second graders offering arts, crafts and music activities, outdoor play and field trips to various sites such as the Pittsburgh Zoo and South Park Playhouse. The dedicated staff at the FCDCC are well trained and offer years of experience and all participate in new training programs throughout the year. Mrs. Merlo tells us that every teacher works tirelessly to build a trusting and caring relationship with each child. She adds, Our experienced staff here thoroughly enjoys working with our children on a daily basis and watching them grow and develop into lifetime learners. Childcare is in our Hearts and Children are the Heart of our Center! The Franciscan Child Day Care Center has provided a child-centered environment for over 30 years. Our secure center in Pittsburgh s South Hills is a Keystone STARS facility. We care for infants, toddlers and preschoolers, as well as provide care for school age children in our Before and After Care Program and Summer Program. Full and part-time programs are available at the Center, located at 1401 Hamilton Road; Pittsburgh, PA For more information, contact us at (412) or fcdcc@osfprov.org Whitehall Franciscan 3

4 In Gratitude The Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God would like to thank all of you who gave so generously during the period of July 1, 2015 through June 30, Funding our ministries as well as the care of our senior Sisters comes in large part from private contributions, so every gift received is vital to our mission and greatly appreciated. We would never be able to accomplish much of what we do without your compassionate support. Thank you for reaching out to us with your prayers, financial gifts and friendship. Your kindness has made a profound difference in the lives of many, especially our Sisters and those we serve. AAA Automotive Mary Ann Abt Marcia C. Adamitz Bernadette Adams Susan Airey Aladdin Food Management Services Arthur H. Albert, Jr. Shirley Allison Patricia Altavilla Cindy Ambrogio Mr. and Mrs. Anthony P. Ambrosia Joan Ammon Maria Ammon Donna Amey Rev. Msgr. Joseph J. Anderlonis Mr. and Mrs. James T. Anderson The Andy Warhol Museum Carolyn F. Antkowiak Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Antoniazzi Kathryn Antoniazzi Barbara Arnone Pamela L. Arriazola Pat Ashfield Associates of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God Lynne E. Astringer Auxiliary of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God Lynn Baer Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Bailey Dr. and Mrs. Walter J. Baker Mr. Leonard L. Balkus Mr. and Mrs. John P. Baltrus Terry Bargas Phyllis M. Barkus Geraldine Barnes Anne T. Baronas Barone, Murtha, Shonberg & White, Inc. Marie Barr Jane Barry Dolores V. Beaver Estate of Peter D. Beganskas Carol A Bembic Carol Berg Carole A Bernabei Mr. and Mrs Keith Bernard Bethel Bakery Mr. and Mrs. Charles D. Bigler Stanley B. Bikulege Terri Bishop Dr. Robert P. Bittel, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Blaha Joann F. Bobbin Dorothy Bolanowski Rev. Kenneth P. Bonadies Robert S. Boris Richard E. Bosco Lelah Bouchard Mark W. Bracken Mr. and Mrs. Charles P. Brazinski Mr. Donald C. Brazis Mr. and Mrs. Chris Brechting Brentwood Bank Bridgeway Capital Malachy Broderick, FSC Anne Bronder Karen Brooks Holly Brower Dr. Brown Richard Brown Rose Ann Brown Mr. and Mrs. William J. Brown Karen Bujnoski Albert A Burton Dolores Butch Susan Butkus Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Buto Martin L Byrd Rosemary Byrd Thomas P. Byrd Very Rev. Frederick L. Cain, VF Diane L. Calleja Patricia A. Campbell Patricia A. Caraccia Linda M. Cardosa Dolores B. Carlson Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh Carnegie Science Center Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence D. Carrico Constance Carruthers Mr. and Mrs. James Catanzarite JoAnn Caye Dr. Chamber Marie Chamber Janice M. Chehovin City Theatre Company Bradley Clair Linda Cline Marian Cochran Carolee Coleman Trudy Comba, Ph.D. Community Life Mary M. Contestabile Tammy Cook Connie Corbett James R. Corey Judith A. Corin Mr. and Mrs. Andrew J. Cornelius Theresa Corso Mr. and Mrs. Louis Costa William Crawford Mr. and Mrs. John S. Crider Christine Csernica - Haas Rosemary Curran Phyllis Cwayna D Alessandro Funeral Home & Crematory, Ltd. Renee A. D Amico Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence D Angelo Dolores Danielson Daughters of Lithuania, Seattle Chapter Mr. and Mrs. Joseph D Autorio Mr. and Mrs. William Davis Mr. and Mrs. Michael Dawida Kristy DeChicchis Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. DeClerico Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Delasey Robert C. DelPizzo, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Peter Deluca Dorothy DeMarco James Dicataldo Mary Dieter Beatrice A. Dillon Anna Dipilato Mr. and Mrs. James E. D Itri Mr. and Mrs. Tom Dombrowski Donnelly-Boland & Associates Susan Donnelly Dr. Donvito Jeanne Dorr Fr. Garrett D. Dorsey Audrey Downs Jean Driscoll William Dugan Jeanne Dunegan Eat n Park Dolly Edwards Mr. and Mrs. Edwin F. Ellis, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. J. Keefe Ellis, Jr. Maureen A. Ellsworth Catherine Englehardt Mr. James D. English Patricia Enscoe Equipco Barbara Jane Evans Joan E. Fairbanks Judith Fedigan Mary Jane Feeley Margo Fittipaldo Audrey Flannery Diane Fleming FourM Consulting Faye F. Fox Dr. Douglas E. Frankel Lorie Fuller Frances M. Galardi Mary Rita Gallagher Rosemary T. Gamburg Mary Jo Gatti Dorothy Gearon Theresa Gecas Lucille Gelcius Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Gelcius Ursula Gelczis Carol Gentile Bernadette Gillotti Judith Giovannitti Julienne Giulianni Antoinette K. Glass Andrew Gleeson Melanie Gnazzo Regina Goebel Cecilia Goldthwaite Anne Goodman Janet Gorda Rosemary Gorecki Eileen F. Grabowski Ruth A. Gredlein Joseph Grigal Rosemary Grogan Susan Guttendorf Patrick Hackett Patricia Haggerty Ruth E. Hanchin Rev. John Haney Mr. and Mrs. Jim Harlett Jean Hartz Healthtrax Fitness and Wellness Center Mr. and Mrs. Robert Herr Kathy L. Hess and Associates Germaine A. Hofbauer Holy Trinity Parish Barbara Homer Kathryn Horgan Kazimiera Hornberger Mitchell J. Hovanec Karen Sue Howe Huckestein Mechanical Services Mr. and Mrs. Richard Huntington Susan S. Hutson HVCC Prayer Group Lucille Iducovich 4 Whitehall Franciscan

5 Immaculate Conception Lithuanian R.C. Church David Immonen Judi Stadler Cathleen Jacobs Mary Ethel Jae John R. Java John F. Slater Funeral Home Mr. and Mrs. Donald Johnson Theresa Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Johnson Dr. Sharon Jolly James P. Jones Johannah Jones Mary Lou Joseph Mr. and Mrs. Richard T. Jozwiak Louise M. Kaiser Dorothy Kamin John Kaseta Charles P. Kashak Kate M. Kelley Foundation Christine Kealey James Keenan Robert Kelley Mr. and Mrs. James J. Kissel, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kleer Margaret Klimko Knights of Lithuania, Supreme Council John H. Knosky Deanna Kolash Kathryn S. Kon Christine A. Kondrot Eleanor Kondrot Nancy Konenkamp Clara Kopyar Michael R. Kosko, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Kosmach, Jr. BK Kosmach Barbara P. Kosslow Estate of Alberta R. Kovacs Sylvester A Kramer Marceda Kreps Mr. and Mrs. John E. Krieg Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Krill Christine Kristoff Mr. and Mrs. James A. Krizman Wanda A. Kruk Natalie Krupka Frances Krzyzanowski Mr. and Mrs. John W. Kuncas Ginny Geary Laskovics Mary Ann Laug Theresa M. Laurusevage Bernadine P. Lawler Anna May Leiss Patricia M. Ligday Kathleen B. Lind Christina Lipinski Mr. John Listak Lithuanian Citizens Society of Western Pennsylvania Jane Lloyd Jean P. Lombard Jean M. Longo Patricia Lorenzi Mr. and Mrs. Paul R. Lostoski Edward G. Loughlin Mary A Lubeski Lori Lukich Carol Luschas Mary N. Mabold Raymond Macedonia Mary Mackelis Janet Maddock Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Majauskas Dr. Zahoor Makhdoom Ann M. Malasky Mary Janet Mandler The Manning & Napier Foundation, Inc. Manning Physical Therapy Janet A. Marasco Mr. and Mrs. Frank Marinucci Lillian Masck Anthony Mastro, CFP Sharon E. Matey Peggy Matje Genevieve Mazur Dorothy T. McBride Dr. Gerald McClallen Karen A. McCrory Barbara C. McCrudden Dave McGervey Carolyn J. McIntyre McMahon Financial Advisors Michael McMiller Jean McNally M. Cecilia McNulty Mary Ellen McNulty Marthe-Marie Meadows Mary Anne Mehl Regina Melinis Lori Merikas Gary R. Metalonis Mary Meyer Michael Poremski Plumbing and Heating Co. Lillian P. Micka Mathilda Milauskas Mr. Frank P. Milko Mr. and Mrs. John D. Miller Mary Carroll Miller Mr.and Mrs. Richard Miller Patricia A. Minick Michael Minutelli Mary Mitchell John P. Mizzer Elizabeth R. Modispacher Joyce Modispacher John E. Montgomery Alfred I. Montville Katherine Morice - Gorter Anne Marie Morsa Thank you, Volunteers! Michele Mortimer Mt. Lebanon Dermatology Audrey Mueller Mary Jo Mullen, CPA Maureen Mulligan Judith Musgrave Helen Mykolaitis National Religious Retirement Office Becky Newlin Harry Nieman Anne Nosnitsky Lorraine Novak Mary Lou Novotnak Francis Nowalk Mr. and Mrs. James F. Nowalk Susan A. Nutbrown Mary Elaine Oakley Denise Olesak Gaynel Olsen Nancy Olshefski Ruthann L. Omer Rev. Charles Opondo-Owora Option Supply Co. Kathleen L. Ostrowski Pat O Toole Marianne Pabis Alma A. Paholsky Mr. and Mrs. Richard Palanzo Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take nothing that you have received...but only what you have given; a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage. ~ St. Francis of Assisi With hearts full of gratitude, we acknowledge our volunteers for their service in support of our mission. Your gifts of time and talent are invaluable and vital to the continued efforts of our Sisters and ministries. Joan Ammon Maria Ammon Kathy Antoniazzi John Baltrus Linda Behrhorst Joey Bereznicki Vince Bereznicki Pat Cappetta Linda Cline Mimi DiGregory Louanne Davis Audrey Downs Pat Enscoe Bonnie Artman Fox Michaele Fisher Margo Fittipaldo Mary Ann Garfold Eileen Gimper Johanna Jones Sharon Liotus Lori Lukich Janet Maddock Our gratitude is also extended to members of the following organizations who give of their time in support of events, programs and projects benefitting the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God. Pittsburgh Auxiliary of the Sisters of Saint Francis Saint Francis Associates Saint Francis Academy Alumnae Association Saint Casimir Alumni Association Dede Metro Audrey Patterson Marie Papp LaVerne Palko Peggy Rodi Camille Scuillo Carol Stasik Stephanie Ward Patricia White Annette Yousko Angela Zinger Whitehall Franciscan 5

6 Patricia Palermo LaVerne Palko Josephine A. Palunas Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Papke Val Parise Elizabeth J. Paros Nicholas Parrendo Michael Parrish Mr. and Mrs. Richard J. Patalkis Sue Patrick Audrey Patterson Vitalya Patton Mr. and Mrs. Albert J. Pavli Mr. and Mrs. James Pazereckas Lois Pearson Mr. Robert J. Peckus Penn Cove Group Capital Dr. Paulette Pepin George Pesch Mr. and Mrs. Jacob R. Peternel Mr. and Mrs. Jack W. Peters Vincent J. Petti Joann Piccioni Mrs. Lorraine Pido Mr. and Mrs. James Pietrzak Pinebridge Dental Joan Piroli Pittsburgh Asphalt Company Pittsburgh Opera Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium Linda Platz Irene Podlinski Paula M. Poerio Phyllis R. Poleski Dalile J. Polikaitis Camille Politano Mr. and Mrs. Lewis M. Pollock Bertha Popovic Mr. and Mrs. Henry Prask Presbyterian SeniorCare Memorial Gifts Fr. Phillip Pribonic Peter D. Pusvaskis Mary N. Racunas Sofie Racunas Theresa M. Raudonis Gae Reano Frances Reck Mr. and Mrs. Robert P. Reich Florence Richards Mary Richards Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Riley Harry J. Ritz Jasper J. Rizzo Joyce Rockwell Mr. and Mrs. Nick Rodi Barbara M. Rohen Arthur Ronat Alice Royer Elizabeth Rozic Katherine A. Rufer Mr. and Mrs. John A. Runco Eva Russell Mary Lou Ruttle Marilyn Ryan RYCO, Inc. Domicella A. Rydziel Mr. and Mrs. David Sabol Jacqueline M. Sadera Dolores A Sadowski Saint Casimir Alumni Association Saint Francis Academy Alumnae Association Saint Gabriel School Rev. John J. Baver Saint Germaine Parish Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Salas Tom Salas Mary Lou Sarber Mary Scabilloni Gifts in memory of the following persons were generously given to the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God. Richard Abt Max and Theresa Alfery Frances Ambrose Michael Arnone John and Merle Bowman Joseph and Lena Bosco Gerald and Jeanette Boucher Sally Swift Brecht Martin & Maria Brunner Robert A. Carlson Thomas E. Caye John T. Coleman Dorothy and Art Corace Thomas Corso Julia Dambroski Bertha Delasey James A. Dunn John Eagan Richard Evans Loyola Gatz Richard Gelcius Mr. and Mrs. Bruno Girdis Cliff Glass Robert Glass Richard S. Gorda Gil Grabowski Tony Gregl Elizabeth Gutendorf Richard Hartz John and Florence Helfen Gene Hofbauer, Sr. Andrew and Mildred Hovanec I. & J. Kavaliauskas James and Helen Kelley Margaret Kissel John F. Kolash, Sr. Stanley Kondrot Anna Mae Kramer Joseph N. Laucius 6 Whitehall Franciscan Madonna Macedonia Ed and Louise Magiera John and Marie Marasco Patricia Montgomery Robert Novak Francis Oakley, Jr. Tony & Aileen Paparella Doris H. Papke Richard Patalkis Kathleen Peckus Bea Pietrzak Stan Pietrzak Msgr. Dominic Pocas Albert & John Purtokas Helen Pusvaskis John Richards Bernard Racunas James Racunas Frank G. Raudonis Tina Roberto Walter Rydziel John & Elizabeth Schmidt Bill Scott Barbara Serrino Helen G. Simon Rita Garas Skkab Patricia Skunda William Snow James & Eva Sosa Frank Spring Angeline Stolarski Becky Suhoza Bronius Sukys Albert Suzio Stella and Anthony Tronosky Anthony and Cecelia Vabalas Mary Ann Wielock Rodger Woessner Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wysocki Frances and Bill Yockey Mary & Paul Yorke Rose Zelneratis Sister Magdalen Abluz Sister M. Leona Backauskas Sister Germaine Beganskas Sister M. Evelyn Bender Sister Marian Blodis Sister M. Geraldine Bubness Sister Mary Ona Buswink Sister Delphine Dargis Sister M. Petronella Gecas Sister Valerie Ann Grigal Sister Felice Jucius Sister Clarita Kadis Sister Urban Kolash Mother M. Chrysostom Krill Sister Mary Louis Kvederis Sister Nancy Langhart Sister Cecilia Lepo Sister Anne Metalonis Sister M. Rose Mikusauskas Sister M. Paulette Nork Sister Mary Clare Patalkis Sister Virgina Pask Sister Henrietta Pusvaskis Sister Bernard Raciunas Sister Karen Schnoes Sister M. Loyola Sebelskas Sister Theodora Shadis Sister Augusta Skulis Sister Hildegarde Smolukas Sister M. Esther Taber Sister M. Francesca Walls Sister M. Alverna Walls Sister Helen White Sister Mary Assisi Yurgelaitis Sister Marietta Zvirblis Honor Gifts Norman Boucher 50th Anniversary of Rosemary & Charles Byrd Doris Papke Airey Family Bodmann Family D Amico Family Diethorn Family Gredlein Family Gradeck Family Evans Family Hartz Family Naujalis Family Paskevice & Tengler Families Pikuris Family Reklaitis Family Stanny Family Simcoe Family Sister M. Dolorita Butkus Sister J. Lora Dambroski Sister Michele Garas Sister Mary Ann Lostoski Sister Francine McDonald Sister Sylvia Krafton Sister M. Berenice Petrauskas Sister Miriam Racas Sister Althea Anne Spencer Sister Frances Walters Sister Barbara Zilch

7 Kathleen Schifano Schneider s Dairy, Inc. Rev. Kenneth Schichtel Mary Eileen Schnippert Mr. and Mrs. William Schray Patricia R. Schuetz Marie T. Schwartz Julia Scott Marian Sebelskas Sepic Orthodontics Gerald Serrino Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Sharp Eleanor G. Siebert Renee Sigley Debra L. Sikanas Raymond Sikanas Silhol Builders Supply Company Zelvyra Simoliunas Loretta M. Simon Mark Simon Michelle Sinclair Kathy M. Skripka Julia Skrycki Joseph Skunda Carol Slippey Mr. and Mrs. Jack Smith Dr. James K. Smith, Sr. Pamela M. Sosa South Hills Country Club Kaye Spark Eileen Spear Rosemary Spreha Lorraine T. Staboris Raymond Stankiewicz Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. Stankus Mr. and Mrs. Paul F. Stanny Carol Stasik Regina Stefanik Joan C. Stein Stelmack, Dobransky & Eannace Arlene Stevens Walter C. Stolarski Cathi Storey Theresa Stripay Mr. and Mrs. Fautas V. Strolia Diane Strouse Eileen Suehr Rev. John Edward Suhoza Carol Suksnis Dr. Nancy A. Sukys Mr. and Mrs. Edward Superior Sunda M. Suzio Mr.and Mrs. Mark Swallow Mr. and Mrs. Carl Swanson Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Taber, Jr. Donna Lynn Talbert Elda Tambellini Mr. and Mrs. Walter Tarde Carol Tasillo Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Tengler Alice Thomas Mary Lynn Thompson Bernard Tickerhoof, T.O.R. Barbara Tischler Barbara Tolstyga Rosalyn S. Tomaszewski Theresa M Townsend Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Tracy Mr. and Mrs. Phillip S. Troiani Two Men and a Truck John Umlor UPMC Health Plan Kathryn Urban Karen Urbanowicz Gerard Uzas Valos Chocolates Anna M. Varinoski Mr. and Mrs. Burton J. Vilagi Kathleen Voigt Nancy M. Voron Maria Vuga Mr. and Mrs. Wilbert G. Wagner Kathleen E Walker Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. Walls Lisa Ward Maria Warhola Lois H. Warren Mr. and Mrs. Dave Wasik Mary Bergell Webb Elsie J. Wefers Mr. and Mrs. Edward J. Weinheimer Diane Marie Weiss Patricia A. White Ronald J. Wielock Wilke & Associates Mr. and Mrs. Walter A. Wilson Lorraine Woessner Genevieve A. Wolff Darlene R. Wolfson Gloria B. Wu Carol R. Yaster Lois Yates Lorraine A Yucius Michael G. Yurgelaitis Andrew P. Zale, D.M.D. Janet Zamecnik Helen Zappa Irene Zarbetski Edward M. Zawila Al Ziegler Mr. and Mrs. Brad Zilch Mr. and Mrs. Jim Zilch Barbara Zirngibl Kathleen Zovko Planning a Legacy of Caring Are You Franciscan Affected? If your answer is Yes, you are one of the hundreds of students, parents or alumni of grade school, high school or college affected by our congregation s ministry of education. If you weren t taught by one of our Franciscan sisters, you may have been affected by their involvement in healthcare, parishes, social services, social justice causes, spiritual retreats or volunteer activities. How will you affect the causes, organizations and people that shaped you during your lifetime? It all starts with Estate Planning or Planned Giving. The word estate is the sum of your assets. From modest to majestic, your estate includes tangible worth such as: property, holdings, stock, life insurance policies and investments, to name a few. The word Plan means putting structure to your generosity with a plan of action. It takes a plan for you to prepare, document, develop, arrange, schedule, forecast, establish, designate and distribute your charitable giving your assets. Designating your beneficiaries in one of the most important decisions you make in your lifetime. Besides family and relatives, an average of two to three charitable organizations is usually named as beneficiaries. A Will is forward-thinking, reflective and a gesture of thankfulness for life s blessings big and small. Your Will is a document of precise decisions. Planned giving through Will inclusion means being prepared and knowing your smallest wishes will be carried out just the way you intended. Your intentions are controlled and designated by you to avoid legal and family disputes. If you don t have a plan, you can t control what happens to your property or investments should you become incapacitated or die. Your assets take years to gather and grow. It only takes a few minutes to call your financial advisor to start the conversation. With the help of a professional, you ll be guided through the process of the legalese and the ever-changing federal and state tax laws. Make your generosity a private and personal experience with the oversight and input of sound financial advice from a professional. Remember the people and organizations that have influenced and affected your life. Planned Giving is a ministry. Make it yours. Thinking about including the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God in Your Will? If you are considering including the Sisters in your Will as part of your Planned Giving, contact our Development office at (412) or developmnet@osfprov.org. Whitehall Franciscan 7

8 Caring for Mom by Sister Toni Longo, ASC I don t even get you, I don t understand you. I don t even like you sometimes. But I accept you. I accept you. I m not sure where I found this quote, but sometimes I say it to myself while caring for Mom, adding, But I love you. I love you. That sounds pretty sick, doesn t it, especially from a Catholic sister about her mom, let alone an Adorer of the Blood of Christ who is called to see everyone as the dear neighbor and welcome them as she would Christ. My name is Teri Longo and I ve been an Adorer of the Blood of Christ for almost 50 years. I have had a wealth of educational, professional and spiritual opportunities, and enriching ministries, the latest of which is as caregiver to my 90- year old mom. So you would think I had the spiritual resources to handle this new and unsettling ministry with grace and faith. Not so. At least it doesn t feel that way. Four years ago, I came home on a three-month compassionate leave from my ministry in Florida to work out, with my siblings, the care of our mother. During that time, Mom fell and broke her femur and needed more care. Neither of my siblings was able to take on the added burden, so my community generously assigned me to minister to my mom. Since then, she has had another surgery, and now requires round-the-clock care. To be honest, I never signed on for this. As I say so often, I am not a nurse, and believe me, those words couldn t be more true! But this is where I find myself. This is where I need to find Jesus looking me in the eye. This is where I live out the words of a prayer I have prayed almost every day of my life: Grant that I may love you always, and then do with me what you will. A priest friend once told me to be careful what I pray for, because the prayer will always be answered, and sometimes not in a way I expect or even like, How do I live out God s will for me at this time and in this place? Not so well, sometimes. More often than not, I cry out: Why am I here? Why me? I don t know how to do this. Why, God, why? Feelings of inadequacy abound, and learning to deal with them is difficult. In her frailty, Mom is not the mother I remember. Seeing her move slowly, not able to hear me when I speak, and be cranky, is, sometimes, more than I can handle. I so want her to be the strong, energetic, able and cheerful woman she always was. Seeing her diminishment every day and knowing that she won t be here long require mercy and compassion for both her and me. I think God is challenging me to allow things to be the way they are, not as I want them to be. I don t understand why God has placed me in this situation. I surely don t feel prepared. I am tired all the time, am always on call and am learning to anticipate needs and situations, and look past my mom s irritability and lack of gratitude. I am trying to see Jesus presence and love Him and my mom in it all, learning to find the gift and grace in this time, in this place, for they and God surely are here. More invitations to compassion, to mercy, toward Mom and myself. This all seems centered on me and my feelings. But Mercy, Misericordia, misery of heart, is an invitation to lessen the pain in others hearts. It s an invitation to hold the pain in Mom s hearty gently, to realize that this diminishment affects her, too. How does she feel? How is she hurting? It must be difficult and humiliating to have your daughter do for you what you have always done for yourself, to be in pain, to rely on others for help, even to walk. It must be difficult for her to remember her life and wonder how things could have been different, to hold the joys and sufferings and not be bogged down by the mistakes of life. When I see Mom cry when she remembers some things, I cry inside, too. Mercy is an invitation to me to try to get inside Mom s skin and ease her pain, physical, emotional and spiritual. You get the point, especially if you are a caregiver for a loved one. Sometimes it s really hard to love the loved one in it all! So, here are few things to consider, even if you are not a caregiver, because there are times when all of us feel inadequate, unloving, unforgiving, and really need to step back and take stock of God s call and will in our lives, and the ways God uses every situation as a font of grace and mercy. When have you felt like you just didn t have what it takes to do what God is asking of you? How did you work it out? Where did God s grace enter the situation and make a difference? Have you found gifts in unexpected ways when you were in the midst of a particularly difficult situation? What were they? How can this Jubilee Year of Mercy strengthen you in times of difficulty? Where does mercy abound in your life? What are the opportunities for you to be Mercy, to gently hold the pain of others in your heart? When have you been able to change the sentence, I accept you to I love you? Sister Toni is a member of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, St. Louis, MO. Article reprinted with permission. 8 Whitehall Franciscan

9 Sister Ann Marie s Ministry of Mercy Imagine how much patience it takes to teach first graders! Sister Ann Marie Lostoski was an elementary teacher in various schools in which our congregation served for 37 years, the last 32 as a first grade teacher. Her various assignments took her to Sts. Peter and Paul in Elizabeth, NJ, and St. Valentine s in Bethel Park, the two schools at which she ministered the longest. Other elementary schools at which she taught were in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan. In her own words, she loved every minute of it. Sister always believed that her greatest rewards were in witnessing the growth and development that transpired within her students, especially during their first year of formal education. To know that you were part of the process of instilling the love of God into their lives was both a privilege and a responsibility she never took lightly. Subsequent to her teaching ministry, Sister Ann Marie spent four years working for the Diocese of Pittsburgh, at the Diocesan Purchasing Commission, and in dietary management for local Catholic schools. Today, Sister is engaged in an entirely different ministry, as a caregiver for Comfort Keepers, one in which she has been involved for the past 11 years. In her ministry with Comfort Keepers, Sister Ann Marie (right) feels blessed by her relationships with her clients, like Marcella. For many seniors, living at home for as long as possible is a priority. Comfort Keepers provides in-home care services that can help prolong an aging person s ability to live independently and safely. While finding her responsibilities much different from years as an elementary teacher, nonetheless, Sister finds these new challenges rewarding. She travels to her clients homes to provide care services and living assistance, allowing them to live more comfortably and independently. I take them to doctor s appointments, to shop, to their various activities, and do light housekeeping as needed, she says. She first attended to an elderly couple for four years, until they both passed away. This was followed by a period of seven years with a senior woman. She was like family to me. I brought her to the motherhouse for the holidays. She, too, passed away last November at age 95. Presently, Sister cares for a retired priest three days a week and another elderly couple the other two days. It s a good feeling to be able to help these people in their later years and to make them feel worth something, she says. Otherwise, they would be alone in their homes or in a personal care facility. We would be remiss if we did not mention that Sister Ann Marie is the twin sister of our Sister Mary Ann Lostoski, both having entered the congregation from their home in Cleveland in Both sisters are avid sports fans, especially of the Pittsburgh hometeams - Pirates, Steelers and Penguins. You re Invited 12 1h Annual Autumn Gala Thursday, October 6, 2016 at the South Hills Country Club Reception at 6:00 PM s Dinner at 7:00 PM Gourmet meal includes your entree choice of Asiago Chicken, French Cut Pork Chops or English Style Alaskan Cod with sides, wine and dessert, as well as a hospitality reception with light appetizers, basket raffle and 50/50 drawing. $75 a person $275 for a 1/2 table (4 persons) $525 for a table of 8 October Ca$h Raffle Drawing Based on the 3 Digit Evening PA Lottery $10 per Chance $70 Winners Every Day in October EXCEPT: $500 AUTUMN GALA GRAND PRIZE on Thursday, October 6, 2016 $200 Every Sunday in October and $100 Every Saturday in October DAILY BONUS $20 paid to Number Before, Number After and Reverse Example: If 243 was drawn on a weekday, 243 would win $70 and 242, 244 and 342 would each win $20. For Reservations, Sponsorship and Raffle Information: (412) or info@osfprov.org All proceeds benefit the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God Whitehall Franciscan 9

10 Sharing our Mision Committed to enriching the lives of our Sisters, the Pittsburgh Auxiliary has been a vital to our mission for over 30 years. Through the generosity and fundraising efforts of their board and members, the Auxiliary provides much needed financial support to our Sisters and ministries, as well as blesses us with their friendship. According to current board president Eileen Gimper, who also wrote a book on our Community s history, as religious communities were founded, Auxiliaries formed for the sole purpose of providing financial support. Because our founding Sisters came from Illinois, the first Auxiliary to support our Congregation formed in Chicago. As our Sisters presence in Pittsburgh grew, more local benefactors expressed interest in organizing to support the Community. The Pittsburgh Auxiliary was established in 1985 with eight members, most of whom were graduates of St. Francis Academy. According to original member LaVerne Palko, who currently serves as treasurer, the Auxiliary was established through a collaboration between then General Superior Sister Marian Blodis and founding member Nancy Lippert. The Pittsburgh Auxiliary eventually became the only active Auxiliary supporting the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God, as the Chicago Auxiliary disbanded due to aging membership and other factors. Today, the general membership of the Pittsburgh Auxiliary is over 200 persons and spans the United States and Canada. Each member came to know the Sisters a different way, yet they share the same desire to support the Sisters and our mission. Many are former pupils, neighbors or collaborators. Others only began their relationship with the Sisters through the Auxiliary. I never knew the Sisters until I joined, said board member Annette Yousko, who was encouraged to join the board 16 years ago by former president Addie Kearney. Because of her experience, she has encouraged others to join and build relationships with our Sisters. With membership spanning such a large area, the Auxiliary is structured differently than others with all fundraising and outreach efforts coordinated by the 8 member board. This dedicated group plans and organizes all Auxiliary events, including the Spaghetti Dinner, Mother s Day Brunch, bus trips, Tea and Retreat. Continuing a tradition from the motherhouse, the board also regularly visits During one of the Auxiliary board s visits with our senior Sisters at Presbyterian SeniorCare, Auxiliary board member Theresa Corso (center) enjoys the company of Sister Beatrice Siratavic and Sister Marita Dargis. our senior Sisters living at Presbyterian SeniorCare. The general membership supports the board s efforts through dues, prayer and participation in fundraisers, retreats and other outreach. Funds raised by the auxiliary support the needs of our Community, as well as various projects benefitting the Sisters or our ministries. Past efforts of the Auxiliary have provided assistance for the care of senior Sisters, an elevator for the Franciscan Child Day Care Center and numerous improvements to the former motherhouse, such as an emergency alert system, pool renovations, mattresses, carpet, blinds and environmentally efficient lighting. This year has been a bit of an adjustment for the Auxiliary as they refocus and adapt to hosting events in a new space Nativity Parish, as well as the changing needs of our Sisters in their new spaces. However, like our Sisters, they are confidently, joyfully, going forward. In 2016, the Auxiliary has successfully continued their Spaghetti Dinner, Mother s Day Brunch and Auxiliary Tea, and are planning their next Auxiliary Retreat for October 13. The board is also working closely with the Sisters to discern how the funds they raise can best benefit our Sisters and mission. Share in Our Mission as an Auxiliary Member Members of the 2016 Auxiliary Board include (back, left to right) Rosalind Gorman, Annette Yousko, Sister Mary Ann Lostoski, Eileen Gimper, (front, left to right) LaVerne Palko and Marie Papp. Not pictured: Pat Cappetta and Theresa Corso. The Auxiliary is always ready to welcome new members who share their commitment to the Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God. Membership is $10 a year. Auxiliary members receive the Auxiliary newsletter and Advent and Lenten booklets, as well as information about events. The Auxiliary also prays for the special intentions of members and sponsors masses for deceased members. For more information about joining this Auxiliary or participating in any of their activities, please contact Sister Mary Ann Lostoski at (412) or smalostoski@osfprov.org. 10 Whitehall Franciscan

11 Pittsburgh s Fight to End Human Trafficking Think of the main street of your town or city: the shops and businesses you pass each day beauty and nail salons, restaurants, children selling candy in front of stores. Did it ever occur to you that you many have seen a victim of human trafficking? Slavery is not a 19 th century past reality but a contemporary industry. The transferring of people for purposes of sexual abuse is the most obvious example. But many of the cheap goods that we import and buy were produced by people in situations of forced labor, often children. We might like to think the Pittsburgh region is untouched by this plague of human trafficking. Unfortunately, that is not the case. According to Carlow University s Dr. Mary Burke, co-founder of the Project to End Human Trafficking (PEHT), modern-day slavery is alive and well in Western Pennsylvania. Among the most common forms of human trafficking in the Pittsburgh area are cheap labor with less-than-ideal work environments and sex trafficking. Traffickers make $32 billion annually. It s very profitable, compared to guns or drugs, because a person can be Signs of Human Trafficking According to the Project to End Human Trafficking, potential signs that someone is a potential trafficking victim are that the person: has limited freedom of movement is transported to work by employer with coworkers lives with employer or at place of work works excessive or unusual hours has few possessions doesn t have control of bank accounts, ID documents lacks knowledge of his/her whereabouts is fearful, anxious, sleep-deprived lacks health care, is malnourished, shows signs of physical or sexual abuse Anyone who suspects human trafficking should not try to intervene, but should call the Polaris Project s National Human Trafficking Hotline: (24 hours) reused and reused and reused, Dr. Burke explains. The demand for sex work and cheap labor are what drive the traffickers, who make large profits from exploiting others, she noted. Traffickers are known to recruit persons who are vulnerable, promising false love, support and opportunity. Youths most at risk are under 18, walk to places alone, have access to a computer, are attracted to consumer goods, want a romantic relationship, are insecure, feel misunderstood, fight with their parents, feel their parents don t care, want more independence and test boundaries. Human trafficking is on the rise in Pittsburgh, and Dr. Burke and PEHT offer resources and support to victims. An all-volunteer group, PEHT was founded in 2004 and is dedicated to raising consciousness about human trafficking in an effort to pull slavery out from the shadows and into the public eye. The group works regionally, nationally and internationally to raise awareness about enslavement and economic exploitation of people. It does so by providing lectures locally, nationally and internationally that address topics in human trafficking such as culture, globalism, sex tourism, and victim identification. PEHT also engages in anti-trafficking coalition building, direct service to victims and collaboration with other national and international organizations in the global fight against human trafficking. PEHT s first response team members are specially trained to manage recently identified and potential cases of human trafficking. They respond to tips from western Pennsylvania called into Polaris Project s national anti-trafficking hotline. Depending upon the circumstances, their initial response may include investigation into a reported tip, interview and needs assessment and referral to services within the local coalition s service provider network. PEHT also created the Pittsburgh Anti-Trafficking Task Force in the Pittsburgh area and has assisted victims locally since its inception. Seeing that not enough was being done about the cause locally, Dr. Burke also created the Western PA Human Trafficking Coalition, in which she collaborates with colleagues in the FBI. The Coalition helps survivors of trafficking, serves as a platform for changing national and state legislation, helping victims, training law enforcement to notice the signs of trafficking, and helping victims acquire prosecutors and service providers. Currently the Coalition comprises nearly 300 members, including concerned citizens, social service agency representatives, faithbased groups, health and mental health care professionals and law enforcement officers from the region. The Sisters of St. Francis of the Providence of God see the fight against human trafficking as a way to live the gospel call of Jesus, to proclaim release to the captives, to let the oppressed go free. For more information, visit endhumantrafficking.org Editor s note: Religious women have been on the forefront of efforts to end human trafficking. Stop Trafficking! is the antihuman trafficking newsletter of the Sisters of the Divine Savior that our congregation has been a co-sponsor of since It features awareness, advocacy and action, and is available at stopenslavement.org. In Pittsburgh, the Catholic Sisters Leadership Council, of whom we are a member, sponsors PATH to Justice - pathtojusticepgh.com. Whitehall Franciscan 11

12 3757 Library Road s Pittsburgh, PA Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Pittsburgh, PA Permit No Spiritual Direction Through Spiritual Direction, Sisters accompany persons on a spiritual journey, helping them to reverence their sacred story. The purpose of direction emphasizes growing closer to God. It is not psychotherapy, counseling or life planning. Spiritual Direction is specific to your spiritual journey and encourages you to explore the movement of God within your life. Our Spiritual Directors are also experienced in group facilitation, and are available to facilitate group meetings or retreats. To schedule an appointment, or for more information, please contact: Sister J. Lora Dambroski, OSF (412) or sjldambroski@osfprov.org Sister Althea Anne Spencer, OSF (412) or saaspencer@osfprov.org Therapeutic Masage Therapeutic massage offers physical, emotional and spiritual benefits. Sister Althea Anne Spencer, OSF, is a licensed massage therapist, a member of the American Massage Therapy Association and NCBTM Board certified with over 20 years experience as a massage therapist. Through massage therapy, she will assist you in finding your balance of body-mind-soul. Sister Althea Anne s massage therapy office is located at St. Sylvester Parish 3754 Brownsville Road Pittsburgh, PA For more information, current rates or to schedule an appointment, please contact Sister Althea Anne Spencer, OSF (412) or saaspencer@osfprov.org