Relay for February 2019

 Bernardine Franciscan Sisters
Relay
February 2019

1. FRIDAY – First Friday 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • for all our special intentions and for those who ask us to remember them and their special intentions in our prayers. 
  • for safe arrival in the U.S. today for Sisters Gracilete de Sousa Cardoso, Josefa Alves de Melo, and Samanta Karla de Sousa who have traveled from Brazil. 
  • for Sister Martha Montero for safe travel today from the U.S. to the Dominican Republic. 
Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel 
St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O prince of the heavenly host, by the Power of God, thrust into Hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen. 

Hello from Sister Mary Laurene Browne 
Liberia, West Africa 
[Sister speaks of Sister Carolyn Muus]: Carolyn was Carolyn in so many ways and for these she will be missed. She was indeed blessed to have been surrounded by so much love and care. We thank and praise God…. [Sister sends a greeting to all of us]: Please give my love to all of our dear Sisters. Blessings always. 

Thank you 
Dear Sister Marilisa and Sisters, 
There are not enough words to fully express my heartfelt thanks for the sympathy, love, and support you have extended to me during this time of great loss of my dearest friend, Sister Maria Christine Keller. I am deeply grateful for the Masses, prayers, and donations offered in her memory. 
Thank you to those who traveled far distances to be present for the celebration of her New Life. May the blessings of the Lord be yours. Gratefully, Sister Dorothy Marie Poremba 

Health Newsletter 
February has been designated National Heart Month and Feb. 1st this year is Go Red for Women Day. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. In recognition of the high incidence of heart disease, this month’s newsletter is titled Heart Health. To access the document from our intranet, select Community Life, Newsletters, then the document. Learn ways to reduce your risk and take good care of your heart! - Sister Shaun Patrice Malone 

Reminder: Registration forms for the Novitiate Groups Weekend Renewal Retreats 
were due Thursday, January 31, 2019 – to Sister Ellen Lipsett, OSF, 450 Saint Bernardine Street, Reading, PA 19607-1737. 

World Day for Consecrated Life to be celebrated at Masses in Parishes this weekend 

2. SATURDAY – Presentation of the Lord – First Saturday 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From Sister Marilisa da Silva 
World Day of Consecrated Life 
The call to consecrate our lives to God through our mission and life is new as the breath of the Spirit upon all of us! Committed to our radical consecration as baptized people in Christ we renew our consecration in following Jesus, and in His Name to continue His Mission. This call never stops and it is alive in the heart and mind of many of us to be faithful to the mission of the Church and to be the light in the world as we remember this day as the Candle’s day. The reason of choosing this day is just to remind us that we are called to be the Light of Christ where His face and His body have been marginalized and destroyed through injustice, violence and disrespect of the human rights. We are called to take the space we need to renew our vow to this commitment and to be energized by the passion for God’s Love! Let us each take a moment aside to respond to self about how my light is enlightening the life of others and my own life.

Prayers of the Faithful for Masses on February 2 and 3, 2019 – World Day of Consecrated Life 
  • For those consecrated to God by the vows of chastity, poverty and obedience that they may seek to live their baptismal promises more intensely and have the grace to persevere in their commitment to the Lord and serve with open hearts and willing spirits. We pray to the Lord. 
  • For those who have responded to the prompting of the Holy Spirit to be a consecrated person that they may experience the support of the Church as they continue their growth in holiness. We pray to the Lord. 

Candlemas 2019/Feast of the Purification of the B.V.M./Feast of the 
Presentation of the Lord - Candlemas Feast 2019 . Candlemas, also known as the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Feast of the Presentation of our Lord Jesus, is a holiday commemorating the presentation of Jesus at the Temple. It occurs on February 2, which is traditionally the 40th day of the Christmas-Epiphany season. https://www.google.com/search?source=hp&ei=Jl1UXP27Cs2t5wK6-bzoDg&q=FEast+of+the+Purification+2019&btnK=Google+Search&oq=FEast+of+the+Purification+2019&gs_l=psy-ab.3...1750.7048..7442...0.0..0.103.1913.29j1......0....1..gws-wiz.....0..0i131j0j0i22i30j0i22i10i30.HEnZsruP94U 


3. SUNDAY – Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

3. SUNDAY – Evening Addition 

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
  • for our dear Sister Lourdine Bielawski who entered eternal life this evening, Sunday, February 3, 2019, in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA at the age of 90 and in the 72nd year of her religious life. Arrangements are pending. 
4. MONDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From the Office of Communications 
Pre-Assembly Registration 

Registrations to attend Pre-Assembly Meeting in Reading, PA on Saturday, March 2, 2019, are due Friday, February 15, 2019, to Sister Ellen Lipsett at relay@bfranciscan.org or phone 484.334.6958. 

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
  • for our dear Sister Lourdine Bielawski who entered eternal life yesterday evening, Sunday, February 3, 2019, in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA at the age of 90 and in the 72nd year of her religious life. Sister’s viewing will be held on Thursday, February 7, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Arrival of Sister’s body at Sacred Heart Convent Chapel on Friday, February 8, 2019, at 8:00 a.m. for wake service and rosary. Sister’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, February 8, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. in Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA. ( If you will be attending the Liturgy and reception that follows, please call the Reception Desk at the Motherhouse 484.334.7000 to leave word of the number attending.) 
  • for Sister Dorothy Payne, SSJ, Principal of Trenton Catholic Academy (formerly McCorristin HS) and former Assistant Superintendent in the Diocese of Trenton (NJ). Sister's funeral will be on Thursday, February 7, 2019, at the Sisters of St. Joseph Convent in the Germantown section of Philadelphia; not in the respite facility in Flourtown where she died. The address is 9601 Germantown Ave. Viewing is at 1:30 p.m. and the funeral Mass is at 3 p.m. Bishop O'Connell is the celebrant. 
Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 

  • for Sister Domina Oszmianska who is hospitalized at Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center, Reading, PA. 
5. TUESDAY – St. Agatha/St. Philip of Jesus 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Address Change received for Death Announcement for Sister Dorothy Payne, SSJ posted on yesterday’s relay 
Trenton Catholic Academy will be closed on Thursday, February 7, 2019 to observe the funeral of Sister Dorothy Payne. The viewing will take place at 1:30 p.m. followed by the funeral mass at 3:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Villa 110 West Wissahickon Avenue Flourtown, PA 19031. We recognize that many of you will be unable to attend the funeral mass so the school is planning a Memorial Mass to be held at Trenton Catholic Academy on Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. We welcome the community to attend this mass and celebrate the life of Sister Dorothy. On behalf of the faculty, staff, and students thank you for the kind condolences and good wishes as we mourn the loss of our President. 

6. WEDNESDAY – St. Paul Miki and Companions 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 

for Frank Franco, 93, who died on Sunday, February 3, 2019. His pivotal place in Alvernia history is undeniable. He made the transformational gift to build our library three decades ago in 1988 at a time when a struggling tiny college needed benefactors and community leaders to launch it toward stability. He remained faithful at a time of crisis in our history. His generosity and loyalty was rooted in his passionate belief in our Franciscan mission. https://memorials.kuhnfuneralhomes.com/frank-franco/3710818/service-details.php 

Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for successful surgery tomorrow for Louis, Sister Danielle Marie Kubelsky’s brother-in-law. 
7. THURSDAY – Blessed Pius IX 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for Mary Wilcox who has been diagnosed with a rare disease that she will be able to get appropriate assistance and healing. 
  • for Michael Mooney for a return to better health. 
8. FRIDAY – St. Jerome Emiliani/St. Josephine Bakhita 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • for Sisters Rose Jameson, Clare Chabot, John Ann Proach, Maria Bartos and Barbara Winnals who are at the Villa Maria School Board Meeting in Stamford, CT this morning and for safe travel back to Reading this afternoon. 
From Sister Marilisa da Silva, OSF 
Gathering of our Temporary Professed Sisters 
Temporary Professed Sisters Yosari Mercedes Adames Rosa (4th year, from the Dominican Republic), Samanta Karla de Sousa Carneiro (2nd year, from Brazil), Gracilete de Sousa Cardoso 1st year, from Brazil) and Josefa Alves de Melo (1st year, from Brazil) have arrived in the United States to start the Program for the International Gathering of Temporary Professed Sisters. Since their arrival on February 1, 2019, our hearts are becoming bigger and more sensitive to interculturalism. We are blessed by the vision of our Global Presence in different Continents and the vibrant commitment of new members embracing our Life and Charism! 

Following are some highlights of the Program in the United States: 
  • February 2: Participation in the Special Liturgy for Consecrated Life in the Diocese of Allentown. Our 14 Sisters who represented us at the Liturgy and the Lunch impressed the Bishop, the Vicar for Religious and other Sisters from other Communities who attended the event. 
  • February 3: Meeting the Sisters at the Motherhouse and getting to know them during meals. Sister Tereza das Dôres Lima gave a tour through the Motherhouse and the Administration Building. The Congregational Leadership Team hosted a Social in the evening which also included Sister Joanne Mary Kotwicki, assistant for the Vocation Office, Sister Anna Indycka, Director of the Vocation Office, and Jasmitte Xavier, our new potential vocation from the United States who is living with us since November 2018. 
  • February 4: “Encounter” with Sister Marilisa da Silva regarding the Timeline of events since the arrival of Mother Veronica on October 16, 1894 until the time of Mother Edmund Loyes’ dividing the Community into three Provinces--two in the USA (St. Francis Province, Scranton, PA and Holy Name of Jesus Province, Philadelphia, PA) and the Immaculate Conception Province in Brazil. In the afternoon, they visited the Mother Veronica Resource Center, Reading, PA and received instruction in the Main Expressions in Portuguese and English even though they are interacting in Spanish with Sister Yosari. 
  • February 5: “Encounter” in the morning with Sr. Jean on the Arrival and the beginning of the Congregation until the first years of Mother Hedwig Leszczynska. In the afternoon, with Sister Paula Marie Nowak focusing on the connection of: St. Bernardine, John Capistrano, Blessed Angelina and the foundation in Poland. 
  • February 6: “Encounter” in the morning with Directors of the Communication Offices and Administrative Assistant; in the afternoon, in the Archives with Sister Rose Colette Rowe. 
At 7:00 p.m. each evening, Sister Gilbetânia Ferreira de Andrade (Facilitator of the Gatherings), the temporary professed Sisters, Sister Tereza and I pray and share the main points of the day as well as discuss questions the Sisters may have. Afterwards, we plan for the following days! 

Sisters, it has been a blessing, especially for me, to witness the care, love and commitment of these Sisters with the mission and life of the Congregation. The big word is WE, as the Congregation… 

From Sister Marilisa da Silva 
Feast of St. Josephine Bakhita 
February 8, the International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking, and Human Trafficking Prevention Month calls all of us to work toward ending human trafficking. Designated by the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and the International Union of Superiors General, February 8, is an annual day of prayer and awareness against human trafficking in conjunction with the feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita, who was kidnapped as a child and sold into slavery in Sudan and Italy. Once Josephine was freed, she became a Canossian nun and dedicated her life to sharing her testament of deliverance from slavery and comforting the poor and suffering. She was declared a saint in 2000. 

Words of Pope Francis in Evangelili Gaudium : 
“How I wish that all of us would hear God’s cry: ‘Where is my brother?’ (Gen. 4:9). Where is your brother or sister who is enslaved? Where is the brother and sisters whom you are killing each day in clandestine warehouse, in rings of prostitution, in children used for begging, in exploiting undocumented labor? Let us not look the other way.” 

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
  • for Alberto Segura , a very good friend and helper of our Sisters in Santo Domingo, RD who died suddenly on February 5, 2019. He was the father of Ariel, a young man who made friends with the Alvernia students. 
Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for a successful surgical procedure this afternoon for Sister Domina Oszmianska who is hospitalized at Penn State St. Joseph Hospital, Reading, PA. 
  • for successful treatment for Danielle Baker and for strength and peace for her concerned family. 
9. SATURDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

10. SUNDAY – Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

11. MONDAY – Our Lady of Lourdes 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Pope Francis’ Prayer Video for February 2019-Against Human Trafficking 

McGlinn Conference and Spirituality Center – Retreats 
Sisters, there will be no retreat here this summer due to the unavailability of our 2 potential, highly recommended priests: Fr. Albert Haase, OFM and Fr. Johnpaul Cafiero, OFM. Fr. Haase is booked solid for the next 2 years. Fr. Cafiero and I are in dialogue for next year. 

Two other Congregational Options: 
June 16-22, 2019 - Do Not Be Afraid : Br. Andr Mathieu, CP - St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Contact Sister Mary Joseph Tirpak. 
July 5 -11, 2019 - Villa of Our Lady Retreat House, Mount Pocono, PA - Retreat Master – TBA. Flier will be coming per Sister Jean Anthony Rodgers. Retreat begins with dinner on July 5th and ends after 10:00 a.m. Mass on July 11th. Cost: $500. Deposit of $50 due by June 25, 2019. 

Reminder: Assembly June 28 – 30, 2019 – McGlinn Conference and Spirituality Center 

From the Office of Communications 
Registration for Pre-Assembly Meeting 

  • Registrations to attend Pre-Assembly Meeting in Reading, PA on Saturday, March 2, 2019, are due Friday, February 15, 2019, to Sister Ellen Lipsett at relay@bfranciscan.org or phone 484.334.6958. 
From Health Benefits and Government Programs 
New Medicare Cards 
Between April 2018 and April 2019 you will receive a new Medicare card with a unique Medicare number. If this new card is sent to your residence address, please make a copy and send the copy to the Health Benefits Office. Thank you. - Sister Danielle Marie Kubelsky 

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for Sylvia who is on hospice. 
  • for continued prayers for baby Cayden who has had a serious setback Thursday night, February 7, 2019. 
12. TUESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From the Office of Communications 
Pre-Assembly Registration 
Registrations to attend Pre-Assembly Meeting in Reading, PA on Saturday, March 2, 2019, are due this Friday, February 15, 2019, to Sister Ellen Lipsett either mailed to 450 Saint Bernardine St, Reading, PA or scanned to relay@bfranciscan.org

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for Sister Maria dos Rêis Gama who is hospitalized in Fortaleza, CE BR. 
  • for Kelly who will be making major decisions about her healthcare. 
  • for Dennis Swider for a solution to his health problems. 
13. WEDNESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From Sister Marilisa da Silva 
Gratitude is the memory of the heart! 
Dear Sisters, it is not too late to thank you for the monetary gifts sent from you, family members, friends and benefactors during the Christmas Season, Funerals and other occasions. Each donation was honored according to the requested Fund. Many times, I feel touched by the great generosity, not for big amounts but for the meaning of love expressed in each note, each card and each best wishes. 

Let me continue updating with some news of the Gathering of our Temporary Professed Sisters. 

February 7: Sr. Maria Bartos received the Sisters and presented to them the purpose, strategies and events that support the mission and how they could take that information to their countries and start doing some similar activities. It was a very good experience as we heard from them during the evening sharing. They also were received by Sister Barbara Winnals who introduced them to the immense ministry of the Finance Office and the operational way to help the community to continue their life and mission. In the afternoon they attended the viewing for Sister Lourdine Bielawski at Saint Joseph Villa. It was the first time they were exposed to a different ritual. In the evening they participated with Sisters and laity at the Motherhouse Chapel in the Taizé Prayer Service. 
February 8: After the Funeral Mass, the Sisters gathered for the Weekend Renewal Retreat directed by Sisters Roberta Agnes McKelvie and Patrice Marie Klausing. Jasmitte Xavier joined the group as she continues to learn more about our life as Bernardine Franciscan Sisters. 
February 9 : The day started in the Chapel with the explanation of the painting of the Franciscan saints located on the back wall in the sanctuary followed by documents, prayers, reflection and sharing on the Paschal Mystery of Mother Veronica’s Life and Mission. The afternoon was enriched by the History of Mother Aloysa Casimir Cash , the Foundress of the Franciscan branch of the Bernardine Sisters from Poland who went to Brazil before us. Mother Aloysa [Sister Casimir (Stanislawa Cachowna)] lived in the United States at the time of Mother Veronica before returning to Poland and was sent as a missionary to Brazil in 1929. The history acknowledges the constant presence of God’s love and providence. 
February 10 : The Weekend concluded with much appreciation and gratitude as well as the desire to continue to know more. 
February 11 : Sisters went to Saint Joseph Villa, Reading, PA . Gathering in the Library, they showed a video of their ministries in different areas in the Dominican Republic and in Brazil. After the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and a meal with the Sisters, they visited with the Sisters. It was the high point of their experience as they interacted with them, felt their love, care and affection. What a blessing! the Young Sisters said! They fell in love with them! 

Thank you 
Alice and Walter Skiengel and Sisters Melita and Cynthia wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to our extended family, the Bernardine Franciscans who expressed sympathy at the loss of our sister Arlene. The messages of concern, the offering of Masses and prayers brought consolation to us. Although she left a big void in our home, we are happy that she is relieved of all her pain and is at peace with God. We thank Sister Marilisa, Sister Madonna, Sister Patricia, Sister Mary and Sister Danielle Marie whose presence brought us peace. Please continue your prayers for the family. Thank you, Sisters, and God bless you. 

From the Office of Communications 
Pre-Assembly Registration 
Registrations to attend Pre-Assembly Meeting in Reading, PA on Saturday, March 2, 2019, are due Friday, February 15, 2019, to Sister Ellen Lipsett at relay@bfranciscan.org or phone 484.334.6958. 

Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for successful treatments for Sister Joelle Mrozoski’s brother, Jim. 
  • for Mary Waldeck, Sister Joanne Slanga’s sister, who has serious health problems. 
  • for Tony and Jennifer. 
14. THURSDAY – Sts. Cyril and Methodius/Valentine’s Day 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From Sister Marilisa da Silva 
Bonanza 
Bonanza is approaching quickly! Currently, there are 130 people attending-not counting 20 Sisters! In Sister Maria Bartos’ message to the Ambassador for Bonanza, she states: If you can do anything to encourage people to come, tell them to get their tickets on line. We have a really exciting evening planned, and we would love to fill the house! We have been blessed by the generosity of the good people who keep helping our Retirement and Mission Programs. Every time I attend the meeting of the Development Board Advisory Members , I always end praying to God in gratitude for having such a number of good people, not all Catholic, who are committed to us, people who love the Sisters and will do whatever they can to help us. I know not all of us can attend, but there are many opportunities to help before, during and after the event. This is not only about money…it is a time for us to get together for the good of the people who journey with us in mission! We are very grateful to Sister Maria Bartos and her Assistant, Janine Sarmir , as they work intensely with members of the Board to make sure that everything will be in place. We thank Sister Barbara Winnals who actively embraces the cause as one of us! Let us hold the success of the Bonanza in our prayers. 

From the Relay 
There will be no regular Relay posted on Monday, February 18, 2019 – Presidents’ Day in the U.S. 

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
  • for Terry Taylor. 
Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for Marjorie who is hospitalized with a serious condition. 
  Happy Valentine’s Day! 
15. FRIDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From the Office of Communications 
Pre-Assembly Registration 
  • Registrations to attend Pre-Assembly Meeting in Reading, PA on Saturday, March 2, 2019, are due today Friday, February 15, 2019, to Sister Ellen Lipsett at relay@bfranciscan.org or phone 484.334.6958. 
Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
  • for Mrs. Mary Jane Autrey, 96, Deacon William L. Autrey’s mother, who died on Saturday, February 9, 2019. The family will greet friends today, Friday, February 15, 2019, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Snyder Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. A funeral mass will be held today, Friday, February 15, 2019, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Anne’s Catholic Church, 929 N. Duke Street, Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17602 . 
Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for a good surgical outcome for Robert Prorock, Sister Maria Denise Prorock’s brother. 
16. SATURDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

A Mother Veronica Moment 
Permission was given from the Mother Superior in Poland for Mother Veronica and the sisters to establish a new and permanent foundation in America. Grateful for this tremendous task, Mother Veronica prayed … 

“ Please, Jesus, bless us with many young girls who wish to join us in our work here in Reading. And thank you, thank you…! This feels like a new beginning for us.” 

17. SUNDAY – Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

18. MONDAY – Presidents’ Day 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From the Office of Communications 
Pre-Assembly Registration 

Registrations to attend Pre-Assembly Meeting in Reading, PA on Saturday, March 2, 2019, were due Friday, February 15, 2019, to Sister Ellen Lipsett at relay@bfranciscan.org or phone 484.334.6958. 


19. TUESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for Terri, Sister Helen Marie Gwiazda's sister-in-law, who is in the hospital. 
20. WEDNESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • for safety for all who will travel today. 
Bernardine Franciscan Sisters 125 th Anniversary 
A note from Christ the Redeemer Parish, Manville, NJ 
Dear Sisters: 
Congratulations on your 125 th Anniversary of your founding in the United States. What a milestone!!!! Know that my prayers and best wishes will be with you as you celebrate your anniversary year. 

Coincidentally, we here at Christ the Redeemer Parish are celebrating the 100 th Year of a Roman Catholic presence in Manville as Sacred Heart Parish, founded in 1919, celebrates their 100 th Anniversary. The Bernardine Franciscan Sisters have played an important role in that history. We are truly grateful for all you have done for our community. 

Again, my congratulations and may God bless your community with many more years. 

Sincerely in Christ the Redeemer, Rev. Stanislaw Slaby, C.Ss.R., Pastor 

Thank you 
The Bielawski family and I are sincerely grateful to our congregational leaders and all the sisters for their compassionate expressions of sympathy upon the recent loss of our dear Sister Lourdine Bielawski. May the Good Lord bless you and reward you for your prayerful support and loving kindness. – Sister Marie Janeen Obara 

Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for healing for Father Paul Bryan, C.Ss.R. who is hospitalized. 
  • for healing for Edna McIntyre who is hospitalized. 
  • for healing for Renee Darcy and her son, Eric Darcy. 
  • for Sally for healing from a serious sickness. 
  • for safety for all whose employment requires that they work outside in inclement weather. 
  • for safety for those who are housebound and rely on service personnel coming to their home. 
  • for safety for all whose job requires that they drive on hazardous roads. 
21. THURSDAY – St. Peter Damian 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Pope Francis opens Summit on Sexual Abuse today in Rome 

Request from Sister Marilisa Helena da Silva 
Photos of Bernardine Franciscan Sisters in Ministry 
Sisters, once again we are asking for your assistance with ministry pictures that include at least one Bernardine Sister in the photo. Our preference for the photos is action pictures rather than posed pictures. Although we are mainly looking for action pictures of our sisters in ministry, you may want to include a few photos of our sisters in prayer or at celebrations, etc. Photos from this collection of pictures will be part of a 125th Anniversary Project. We would like to have every ministry of our sisters represented. Sisters, I am asking you to please make it a priority to provide pictures and send them electronically by jpg to Sister Marilisa Helena da Silva, Congregational Minister at mhdasilva@bfranciscan.org by Friday, March 8, 2019. 

Thank you, Sisters, for your cooperation in this matter as well as for the beautiful way that you share God’s love through your life and ministry. May 2019 bring you many blessings from God. 

Important Notice from Institutional Automated Systems (IAS) 
As of Friday, March 1, 2019, any communication via mail to IAS must be sent to their new address: 1859 Bowles Avenue, Suite 100, Fenton, Missouri 63026. Phone numbers (314.644.2150 and toll free 800-489-2150) and FAX number (314.644.7132) remain the same. 

From Health Benefits and Government Programs 
New Medicare Cards 
Between April 2018 and April 2019 you will receive a new Medicare card with a unique Medicare number. If this new card is sent to your residence address, please make a copy and send the copy to the Health Benefits Office. Thank you. - Sister Danielle Marie Kubelsky 

Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for M who is seriously ill. 
  • for continued prayers for baby Cayden, her parents and grandparents. 
22. FRIDAY – Chair of St. Peter 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • for safe travel for our Bernardine Franciscan Sisters from Brazil and the Dominican Republic who will be returning to Brazil and the Dominican Republic this weekend. Come back again! 
  • for a successful Bonanza on Saturday, February 23, 2019. 
From Sister Marilisa da Silva 
March Pre-Assembly Days – PA and MI 
March is coming quickly and the Saturday, March 2, 2019, Pre-Assembly Day in Reading, PA is fast approaching. After much dialogue and consideration, we will add a Pre-Assembly Day in Farmington Hills, MI on Saturday, March 23, 2019. 

Important Notice from Institutional Automated Systems (IAS) 
As of Friday, March 1, 2019, any communication via mail to IAS must be sent to their new address: 1859 Bowles Avenue, Suite 100, Fenton, Missouri 63026. Phone numbers (314.644.2150 and toll free 800-489-2150) and FAX number (314.644.7132) remain the same. 

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
  • for Sister Margaret Simms, founder of Betania II in Medway (MA), who died on February 21, 2019. 

23. SATURDAY – St. Polycarp 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • for a successful Bonanza tonight and in thanksgiving for all who will attend and all who will contribute their labors to make it a success. 
24. SUNDAY – Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • in thanksgiving for a successful Bernardine Bonanza. 
25. MONDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From Development and Mission Advancement 
Bernardine Bonanza 2019 was a great success with 198 people in attendance! We are still calculating the results but we estimate that we brought in around $350,000 from this year‘s event. How blessed we are to have so many generous people including our dynamic Development Board who are so good to us! I especially want to thank all our sisters who helped in so many different ways to make this event a night to remember. Every bit of help was deeply appreciated. Gratefully, Sister Maria Bartos and Janine Sarmir 

Important Notice from Institutional Automated Systems (IAS) 
As of this coming Friday, March 1, 2019, any communication via mail to IAS must be sent to their new address: 1859 Bowles Avenue, Suite 100, Fenton, Missouri 63026. Phone numbers (314.644.2150 and toll free 800-489-2150) and FAX number (314.644.7132) remain the same. 

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
  • for Marlene R. Schutz, a former employee of Alvernia University, who died Friday evening, February 22, 2019. 
  • for Mrs. Anne (Kochenash) Hiryak, 90, mother of Deacon Paul J. Hiryak, who died Wednesday, February 20, 2019. Her viewing took place Thursday, February 21 and 22, 2019. Her funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, February 22, 2019 at St. Columbkill Church, Boyertown, PA. Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to: Deacon and Mrs. Paul J. Hiryak 10 Hershey Drive Pottstown, PA 19465-8137 
Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for successful surgery tomorrow, Tuesday, February 26, 2019, for Elisa Maria Neto, Sister Marilisa da Silva’s sister. 
26. TUESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Kudos - Bonanza : Congratulations for the success of the Bonanza on March 23, 2019! A special token of gratitude to Sister Maria Bartos for her effort and dedication in benefit of the Congregation. Our prayers of gratitude to all the benefactors and Sisters who gave their contribution for the success of the event. - Message from Sister Odilia Vieira Lopes on behalf of the Administration of the “Escola Esperança” in Curitiba, PR BR. 

From the Office of Communications 
2019 Residence Directories arrived from the printer on Friday, February 19, 2019. In order to conserve financial resources, they are being distributed in the United States at the March 2, 2019 Pre-Assembly meeting in Reading, PA and the March 23, 2019 Pre-Assembly Meeting in Farmington Hills, MI. Some residences have already received the new directory if a Sister from that residence was present recently in Reading, PA. All residences should have their new directory in hand by March 23, 2019. Directories have been mailed to Liberia and to the two residences that would have had no representative Sister at the Pre-Assembly meeting in PA or MI. 
Directories for Brazil, the Dominican Republic, and Mozambique have been hand carried by the Temporary Professed Sisters who returned to their countries this past weekend. 
Meanwhile, if you’re uncertain what to do with your current 2018 Residence Directory (or earlier versions), consider bringing it/them with you to the Pre-Assembly Meeting in Reading, PA on March 2, 2019 and deposit it/them in the box by the Registration table marked “Old Residence Directories.” The “old” directories will be shredded. Sisters in other locations, please do not discard “old” Directories directly into the Trash. Consider them confidential as you would your Social Security number. Please help us to safeguard the data in this rampant age of “Identity theft.” Shred them! 

FAN (Franciscan Action Network) March 2019 Newsletter link is below: 

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
  • for Margaret Respondowski, Sister Jacinta Respondowska’s sister-in-law, who died Monday evening, February 25, 2019. 
  • for Marlene R. (Skarbek) Schutz, 66, Executive Assistant to the Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Alvernia University, who died Friday evening, February 22, 2019. Visitation Saturday, March 2, 2019, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the St. Aloysius Church gathering center. A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, March 2, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Aloysius Church 223 Beech St., Pottstown, PA 19464. Private interment at a later date. In the attached obituary link, the last paragraph indicates that contributions may be made in Marlene’s memory to the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters. 
Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for Jim Fisher for safe and successful surgery. 
  • for Marianna T. for healing and recovery. 
  • for Phil B. for safety and blessings. 
  • for successful diagnostic procedures for those who will undergo them this week. 
27. WEDNESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Important Updated Notice from Institutional Automated Systems (IAS) 
IAS will be moving to their new address tomorrow, Thursday, February 28, 2019, and March 1, 2019. Phone lines will be down. If you need immediate assistance during this time, please contact Sister Dolorice Domin at 484.334.6817 or DoloriceDomin@bfranciscan.org 

As of Friday, March 1, 2019, any communication via mail to IAS must be sent to their new address: 1859 Bowles Avenue, Suite 100, Fenton, Missouri 63026. Phone numbers (314.644.2150 and toll free 800-489-2150) and FAX number (314.644.7132) remain the same.
 
Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for the comfort and consolation of their families: 
  • for Guido J. Granato, 97, Deacon Gary J. Granato’s father, who died on Saturday, February 23, 2019. The family will greet friends from 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 28, 2019 and Friday, March 1, 2019, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at O’Leary Funeral Home, 640 East Springfield Road, Springfield, Pennsylvania 19064. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, March 1, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Madeline Church, 110 Park Street, Ridley Park, PA 19078. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/philly/obituary.aspx?n=guido-j-granato&pid=191662643&fhid=28320 
  • for Francis J. Reilly, who died on Friday, February 22, 2019, at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Schuylkill, at the age of 81. Mr. Reilly was the father of the late Reverend Joseph F. Reilly who died in 2012. He was the loving husband of Barbara A. (McGovern) Reilly. Calling hours were on Tuesday, February 26, 2019, at Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home, 104 South 4th Street, Minersville, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial followed at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Michael the Archangel Church, 541 Sunbury Street, Minersville, PA. Interment in Saint Vincent #2 Cemetery, Minersville. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to: Mrs. Barbara A. Reilly c/o Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home 104 South 4th Street Minersville, PA 17954. 
Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for a return to health for Robert Prorock, Sister Maria Denise Prorock’s brother. 
  • for the following members of Holy Spirit Parish Stamford CT – for baby Declan Angiosis, Angela Kenahan's grandson, and for Bill and Don Kenahan. 
  • for healing for Jeannie and strength for her family as doctors make decisions about her diagnosis and treatment. 
28. THURSDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Important Updated Notice from Institutional Automated Systems (IAS) 
IAS will be moving to their new address today, Thursday, February 28, 2019, and tomorrow, Friday, March 1, 2019. Phone lines will be down. If you need immediate assistance during this time, please contact Sister Dolorice Domin at 484.334.6817 or DoloriceDomin@bfranciscan.org 

As of tomorrow, Friday, March 1, 2019, any communication via mail to IAS must be sent to their new address: 1859 Bowles Avenue, Suite 100, Fenton, Missouri 63026. Phone numbers (314.644.2150 and toll free 800-489-2150) and FAX number (314.644.7132) remain the same. 

Prayers are requested for the following sick and needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends and Benefactors and for those who companion them during this time: 
  • for Sister Domina Ozsmianska for a successful surgical procedure today. 
  • for comfort and peace for Father Paul Bryan, C.Ss.R. 
  • for Gloria Pucci and Debby Devarti Gilronan. 
  • for Lindsay Jordan. 
Farewell, February! Next year (2020) will be a leap year and there will be a February 29th.


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