Relay for January 2019

Bernardine Franciscan Sisters
 Relay
January 2019

1. TUESDAY – Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God – the eighth Day of Christmas - New Year’s Day

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 safety for all who will travel during this holiday season.

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.

1.TUESDAY – afternoon addition

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 God’s healing and strength for Sister Maria Christine Keller who is in Tower Health Reading Hospital, Reading, PA.

2. WEDNESDAY – Sts. Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen - the ninth Day of Christmas

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

     • for safety for all who will travel during this holiday season.

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 Damian Korick, 51, Sister Maria Korick’s nephew, who died on Monday, December 24, 2018.

From the Relay

Sisters, please take the time to return to the December postings to read the various additions.

May 2019 be a year of many, many graces and blessings for you, our Congregation, our families, friends, benefactors, and all who serve with us in our various ministries. The official Relay will begin tomorrow, January 3, 2018, the Most Holy Name of Jesus [special prayers in our Franciscan Morning and Evening Prayer book].

3. THURSDAY – Most Holy Name of Jesus - the tenth Day of Christmas

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

From Sister Marilisa da Silva 
January 3, 2014 - The Holy Name of Jesus 

With Saint Bernardine of Siena, we honor the Name of Jesus and we invoke His Name because He is above every other name. As Bernardine said, " It is a melody to our ears, sweet jubilee to our hearts, our life, our salvation, and our glory. Praised be the Name of Our Lord Jesus Christ." I invite each one of you to remember Jesus who is on the face of all people, especially the poor, the oppressed, the immigrant, the abused, the homeless, the sick, the abandoned, the marginalized, the outcast, all children, the elderly people in the world, and those wounded by war, by racism, and by rejection. Let us praise the Name of Jesus and continue His Mission with trust and confidence in Divine Providence.

From Sister Rosemary Stets 
Alvernia University Student Volunteers to the Dominican Republic 

Prayers requested for 12 Student Volunteers from Alvernia University who will travel to Santo Domingo on Saturday, January 5, 2019 for a week of service at our mission in Los Tres Brazos, and will return on Saturday, January 12, 2019. Please remember also three adult volunteers who will be serving for several months (January to June) at the mission teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) and Creative Arts with the children and adults at our elementary and vocational training school. May God bless all for their generous service, and give them safe passage and safety while serving with 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 Sister Patricia Ann Czarnota who was admitted yesterday, Wednesday, January 2, 2019, to Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center, Reading, PA. 
  • for Sister Maria Christine Keller who remains hospitalized in Tower Health Reading Hospital, Reading, PA. 
  • for Mickey Mento who is seriously ill. 
  • for healing for Sue Kapuscinski who is dealing with a serious illness. 
4. FRIDAY – St. Elizabeth Ann Seton - the eleventh Day of Christmas 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From Sister Marilisa da Silva 
United in the Name of Jesus we rejoice with Sister Samanta Karla de Sousa Carneiro who, today, will renew, for one more year, her vows as a Bernardine Franciscan Sister. Sister Samanta will be studying during this summer (in Brazil) for one more program that gives a degree in Youth Movements.
 
We ask prayers for all the Sisters who are going to start the Annual Retreat this weekend. 

A Note from Sister Mary Laurene Browne 
Liberia, Africa 

May 2019 be a year of wonderful graces for all of us. Our dry season is on in earnest. [I send] my love to everyone!                Sister, Mary Laurene 

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 Arlene Skiengel, Sisters Melita and Cynthia Skiendziel’s sister, who died on January 1, 2019. Viewing : today, Friday, January 4, 2019, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and again tomorrow, Saturday, January 5, 2019, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Wroblewski Funeral Home Inc., 1442 Wyoming Ave., Forty Fort 18704, phone (570) 287-8541. Funeral: Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated tomorrow, Saturday, January 5, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 116 Hughes St., Swoyersville, with the Reverend Joseph J. Pisaneschi, pastor, officiating. Interment with the Rite of Committal will follow in St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cemetery, Swoyersville. http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/citizensvoice/obituary.aspx?n=arlene-a-skiengel&pid=191150646&fhid=22981 
  • for Anna Rogozinski, Sister Ruth Ann Rogozinski’s mother who died this morning, Friday, January 4, 2019 at 5:35 a.m. at St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Funeral arrangements are pending for services in East Brunswick, NJ. The Mass of Christian Burial, when scheduled in East Brunswick, NJ, will be at St. Bartholomew Church. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA at a date to be determined. All arrangements are pending. 
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 Kevin Kendig for successful surgery today. 
  • for Ken S. for health, blessings, and complete recovery. 

5. SATURDAY – St. John Neumann - the twelfth Day of Christmas 

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 Anna Rogozinski, Sister Ruth Ann Rogozinski’s mother who died yesterday morning, Friday, January 4, 2019 at 5:35 a.m. at St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Wake on Tuesday, January 8, 2019 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at Brunswick Memorial Funeral Home, 454 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, NJ 08816. Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, January 8, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Bartholomew Church, 470 Ryders Lane, East Brunswick, NJ 08816. Interment at Sr. Mary's Cemetery, Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, NJ 08816. 

6. SUNDAY – Solemnity of the Epiphany 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 


7. MONDAY – St. Raymond of Penyafort 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Updates 
  • Sister Maria Christine Keller has been discharged from the hospital and is presently in residence at the Mifflin Center, 500 Philadelphia Avenue, Shillington, PA 19607 - Room 206 B. 
  • Sister Patricia Ann Czarnota has been discharged from the hospital and has returned to St. Joseph Villa. 
2018 Residence Directory Update 
  • Sister Cara Lucille Garofalo - pp. 28 and 53 – New cell phone number: 484.706.3570 
Mother Veronica’s Day – Sunday, January 13, 2019 

In the January mailing to the U.S. Sisters is a Save the Date flyer for Mother Veronica’s Day activities in Reading, PA: 
  • 3:30 p.m. Prayer Service/Pilgrimage in the McGlinn Conference & Spirituality Center 
  • 4:30 p.m. Dinner in the Motherhouse Dining Room. 
Please call Sister Kateri Peake at 610.777.7221 to give the number attending one or both of the events. 

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 Ilsa Maria Kaercher, Sister Marilisa da Silva’s sister, who is very ill. 
  • for Clarina DiPietro, Sister Melanie DiPietro’s sister, who is now in hospice care. 
  • for successful serious surgery and full recovery for Tom Cline. 
  • for Natalie Fletcher for successful treatment and return to good health. 
  • for mother-to-be Katie Martin for a safe and successful pregnancy. 
  • for Joyce who is recovering from serious surgery. 
8. TUESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  
Franciscan Action Network (FAN) 

Link to the FAN January Newsletter : 

Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) National Office 
Link for the Winter 2019 Newsletter from LCWR 


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 Steven Salobecke who died suddenly Monday morning, January 7, 2019. Steven was the husband of Rosalina and father of Raquel who are on the Housekeeping Staff at the Villa of Our Lady Retreat House, Mt. Pocono, PA. 
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 Dorothy Olmsted for a peaceful, comfortable death. 
  • for Mercedes Martinez who is hospitalized in Santo Domingo, DR. 
  • for peace and healing for Pat and Bob Stuckey. 
  • for healing and recovery for Carol Gilhuly and for peace, comfort and consolation for her daughter Mary G. 
  • for blessings and healing for Phil, Joe and Val. 
  • for Logan V. to return to the Lord. 
  • for safe travel for all who are on slick roads or traveling through other dangerous driving conditions. 
9. WEDNESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Updates 
  • Sister Jean Jacobchik – has returned to the Motherhouse after recuperating at St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA 
  • Sister Antoinette Keiser – has returned to Boothwyn, PA after recuperating at St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. 
Mother Veronica’s Day – Sunday, January 13, 2019 

In the January mailing to the U.S. Sisters is a Save the Date flyer for Mother Veronica’s Day activities in Reading, PA: 
  • 3:30 p.m. Prayer Service/Pilgrimage in the McGlinn Conference & Spirituality Center 
  • 4:30 p.m. Dinner in the Motherhouse Dining Room. 
Please call Sister Kateri Peake at 610.777.7221 to give the number attending one or both of the events. 

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 Andrew Swider, 88, Sister Dorothy Marie Poremba’s brother-in-law, who died Tuesday morning, January 8, 2019, in Lansford, PA. Arrangements are pending. 
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 procedure today for Sister Michele Grodzinski’s niece, Barbara. 
  • for safe and successful surgery for Kevin Dalley. 
  • for Elisa Maria Neto, Sister Marilisa da Silva’s sister, who is hospitalized. 
  • for Valentina for a return to health. 
  • for healing for Katie Serbinski. 
  • for blessings for Jen Doil and relief from a burden. 
  • for good Catholic spouses for Jody D., Christina C., Vincent C., Phil B. and Logan V.  
9. WEDNESDAY – Additions [posted at 10:18 a.m. EST] 

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 speedy and complete recovery for Sister Lourdine Bielawski who is undergoing a surgical procedure this morning, Wednesday, January 9, 2019, at Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center, Reading, PA. 
  • for an accurate diagnosis and successful treatment for Dennis L. who is undergoing a surgical procedure today, Wednesday, January 9, 2019.  
10. THURSDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Diocese of Allentown – Invitation to Women Religious 

Most Reverend Alfred A. Schlert, Bishop of Allentown, invites the Women Religious of the Diocese, to celebrate the World Day for Consecrated Life 2019, on Saturday, February 2, 2019, at Saint Francis of Assisi Church, 11 th and Washington Streets, Allentown, PA 18102. Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 am in the Church and Brunch will be served afterwards in the Parish Social Hall below the Church. Please respond by January 25, 2019 to: Kathy Snyder,                      KSnyder@allentowndiocese.org or 610.434.3200. 

2018 Residence Directory Update 

Sister Tereza das Dôres Lima – p. 4 - Effective Immediately 
Sister Tereza das Dôres Lima is working in Office 215 in the Congregational Offices now. 
Room: #215 
Office Ext 3215 – 484.509.4070 
H Ext 2228 – 484.509.4048 
Cell 610.334.8198 
E-mail Tereza@bfranciscan.org 

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 
  
From Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archdiocese of Philadelphia, PA 
Nine Days of Prayer, Penance and Pilgrimage – January 14-22, 2019 – to end Abortion 

“On January 22, 2019, our nation marks the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the decision that made abortion legal throughout the United States. Since that date 60 plus million children’s lives have been lost to abortion. Our prayers and sacrifices make a difference, and do make a tremendous difference in the face of the culture of death with our real hope for a culture of life. 
Information on the ‘9 Days for Life’ is posted on the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) website at www.9daysforlife.com The centerpiece of this prayer effort is a simple novena with different intercessions, brief reflections and suggested acts of reparation that can be received directly each day through a variety of electronic forms. ‘The 9 Days for Life’ allows for a wide number of ways for people of all ages and circumstances to participate. The novena of prayer also spans the March for Life and can be a way to participate spiritually with the thousands of pilgrims from the Archdiocese who will travel to Washington, DC on January 18, 2019.” [Source: Office for Divine Worship/January 7, 2019] 

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 Yesica Villalobos who is ill. 
  • for a safe delivery of Emily's baby. 
  • for those who are estranged from a parent (s). 
10. THURSDAY – Afternoon addition [posted at 12:02 p.m. EST] 

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 Christine Keller who is hospitalized in Tower Health Reading Hospital, Reading, PA in room C 336. 
11. FRIDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From Sister Marilisa da Silva, OSF 
Mother Veronica’s Day 

Mother Veronica's trust in Divine Providence bore fruit during her lifetime and continues to bear fruit today in us, her dearly beloved daughters. Her example provides a sure pathway to us and for all those whose lives we touch with our presence. 

Dear Sisters, I invite each one of you wherever you are, to take a moment to reflect, to pray and to celebrate the life of our dear Foundress, Mother Veronica Grzedowska. On Sunday, January 13, 2019, Sisters will be gathering in the Motherhouse for the Prayer Service/Pilgrimage through Mother Veronica’s Journey of Trust. 

As a congregation, we live and minister in different geographic areas. Some of you live in areas where it is now vacation time. I ask that you plan to do the Prayer Service at another time. Let us celebrate this memorable date of 125 years since the arrival of Mother Veronica in the United States. Let us trust in Divine Providence as courageous, faithful and joyful women! 

From Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archdiocese of Philadelphia, PA 
Nine Days for Life – January 14-22, 2019 – to end Abortion 
Archdiocese of Philadelphia 
Mark your calendars 

The Jubilarian Mass for Women and Men Religious of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia will be held on Sunday, September 8, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul . Archbishop Charles Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. will be the Main Celebrant for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. More detailed information will follow in the coming months. 

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 seriously ill Brother David MacIntyre (Brother Rice High School, Bloomfield Hills, MI). 
12. SATURDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

13. SUNDAY - Baptism of the Lord 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

14. MONDAY – Monday of the First Week in Ordinary Time 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Pope Francis’ Prayer Video for January 2019 – Young People and the Example of Mary 

Request from Sister Marilisa Helena da Silva, Congregational Minister 

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. You may also 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 125 th Anniversary Project. We would like to have every ministry of our sisters represented. Sisters, I am asking you please make this project a priority. Send photos electronically by jpg to Sister Marilisa Helena da Silva 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 God shower upon you many blessings in 2019. 

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 Brother David MacIntyre, CFC (Brother Rice High School, Bloomfield Hills, MI). 
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, January 15, 2019, for 4-month-old Cayden, granddaughter of Marco Clark, President of Bishop McNamara. 
  • for Fr. Everett Pearson who is ill. 
14. MONDAY – Additions [posted 10:54 a.m.] 

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 Bernadine Vandewalle , Sister Carol Anne Heitgen’s sister, who was hospitalized yesterday, Sunday, January 13, 2019.
New BFS Videos 

Two new BFS videos are posted on bfranciscan.org or can be accessed directly below. 
Mother Veronica’s Feast Day 2019 - https://animoto.com/play/9RNx8WEBdgr5SlpdjG3zYA 
Christmas Party at St. Joseph’s Project - https://animoto.com/play/aaRuHbHMkHtrDhPj4goKxQ 

15. TUESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Health and Wellness Message for January 
Happy New Year Sisters! I hope everyone had a blessed holiday season. This month’s newsletter title Spiritual Tasks of Aging is posted on the BFS intranet. To access the document, select Community Life, then Newsletters and select the document. Blessings! - Sister Shaun Patrice Malone
 
Job Opening - Emmaus House, Saginaw, MI 
Emmaus House of Saginaw, Inc. continues its vibrant tradition of providing safe, and sober transitional living for women coming from prisons, jails, or rehabilitation programs. The Board of Directors is currently accepting resumes for its next Executive Director. The ideal candidate will: A) Have 1-3 years of senior leadership in a nonprofit or human service agency; B) Have 1-3 years experience in promoting safe, and sober living; C) Have documented experience in writing, administering and reporting grants; D) Have experience in public speaking. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Interested candidates may mail their resumes to Joan Douglas, Interim Executive Director Emmaus House of Saginaw, Inc. 733 South 14 th Street, Saginaw, MI 48601 E-mail: douglasjoan80@gmail.com If you have an interest, please contact your Councilor before any commitment. 

New BFS Videos 
Two new BFS videos are posted on bfranciscan.org or can be accessed directly below: 
January 13, 2019 Mother Veronica Day! 
St Joseph’s Project Christmas Party! 
  
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 Bernadine Vandewalle , Sister Carol Anne Heitgen’s sister, who died yesterday, January 14, 2019. Funeral will be at All Saints Church, 720 29th St SE #2, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403 Phone: (319) 363-6130. Arrangements are pending. 
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 today for 4-month-old Cayden, granddaughter of Marco Clark, President of Bishop McNamara. 
  • for Clarina DiPietro, Sister Melanie DiPietro’s sister, who is critically ill and is in hospice care. 
16. WEDNESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

A Mother Veronica Moment 
Welcomed by Father Malusecki, pastor of St. Mary Parish in Reading, to teach the children in his parish, Mother Veronica told the Sisters … 

“It is clearly the hand of God at work in our lives. This is the Lord’s will. Surely, You have a plan for us, beloved Father, a plan beyond what we can see with human eyes. Once again, I place all of my questions and my anguish about this situation at Your feet, dear Sacred Heart of Jesus! All is Yours!” 

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 Joseph Zito who died suddenly on January 14, 2019. Joseph was the brother-in-law of Msgr. J. Peter Cullen, retired, Church of the Holy Spirit, Stamford, CT. 
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 Ilsa Maria Kaercher, Sister Marilisa da Silva’s sister, who is hospitalized in serious condition. 
  • for George Bartos, Sister Maria Bartos’ 92 year old brother, who is seriously ill. 
  • for George Kwetkowski, Sister Joanne Helen Grejdus 's cousin, who is very sick and is hospitalized. 
  • for Nancy, Sister Melanie DiPietro’s sister, who is suffering with health issues. 
16. WEDNESDAY – Addition #1 [posted at 10:13 a.m.] 

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 Carolyn Muus who is in Reading Hospital-Tower Health, West Reading, PA in critical condition and will be undergoing surgery. 
16. WEDNESDAY – Addition #2 [posted at 2:16 p.m.] 

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 Maria Christine Keller who entered eternal life this afternoon, Wednesday, January 16, 2019, in Reading Hospital-Tower Health, West Reading, PA at the age of 82 and in the 64th year of her religious life. Arrangements are pending. 
16. WEDNESDAY – Addition #3 [posted 4:10 p.m.] 

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 Maria Christine Keller who entered eternal life this afternoon , Wednesday, January 16, 2019, at 1:35 p.m. in Reading Hospital-Tower Health, West Reading, PA at the age of 82 and in the 64th year of her religious life. Viewing on Monday, January 21, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, January 22, 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.) 
17. THURSDAY - St. Anthony, Abbot 

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 our dear Sister Maria Christine Keller who entered eternal life this afternoon, Wednesday, January 16, 2019, at 1:35 p.m. in Reading Hospital-Tower Health, West Reading, PA at the age of 82 and in the 64th year of her religious life. Viewing on Monday, January 21, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, January 22, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. in Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA. ( Please refer to the Funeral Notices section of our web site for additional information. 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 eternal joy and rest for Steve Sugajski, husband of Sister Jane Frances Dutkiewicz's sister, Theresa. 
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 Kylie's newborn baby boy who is in intensive care. 
  • for Anne who is seriously ill. 
  • for continued prayers for 4-month-old Cayden, granddaughter of Marco Clark, President of Bishop McNamara, who was scheduled for surgery on Tuesday, January 15, 2019; however, the surgery had to be cancelled because of serious pre-surgery complications. 
  • for Terry for a return to good health and for healing. 
  • for a return to good health for Baby Emma. 
  • for good results for those who have undergone recent surgical or medical procedures and for a return to good health. 
17. THURSDAY – Addition [posted at 4:07 p.m.] 

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 Carolyn Muus who remains hospitalized and is very ill. 
18. FRIDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity – January 18 to 25, 2019 
Theme: “Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue…” inspired by Deuteronomy 16: 18-20 

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 Carolyn Muus who is critically ill. 
  • for continued prayers for our Sisters who are seriously ill or who are dealing with chronic conditions. 
  • for a rapid recovery and complete healing for Mary Littlefield. 
  • for safety for all who will travel this weekend and next week. 
  • for complete healing for all who experience injuries or health problems during the bad weather. 
From the Relay 
No Relay on Monday, January 21, 2019 – Martin Luther King. Jr. Day 

"If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” – Martin Luther King, Jr. [perfect link to the theme for Christian Unity Week – justice! See above] 

Please check back for any community updates. 

Bernardine Vandewalle’s Funeral Service Information 
The funeral of Bernardine Vandewalle, Sister Carol Anne Heitgen's sister, who died on January 14, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. was held today, Friday, January 18, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. at All Saints Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids, IA, A one-hour visitation preceded the Mass. Burial followed at St. John's Cemetery in Cedar Rapids. 

19. SATURDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

20. SUNDAY – Second Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

21. MONDAY – St. Agnes – Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday in U.S. 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

Sister Maria Christine Keller’s Funeral Service Information 
  • Viewing today, Monday, January 21, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Mass of Christian Burial tomorrow, Tuesday, January 22, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. in Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, Reading, PA. ( Please refer to the Funeral Notices section of our web site for additional information. 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.) 
No Relay today. 

50 Quotes from Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

22. TUESDAY – Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • for safe travel for those coming to Reading to participate in the International Inspiration Committee Meetings January 24 to 28, 2019. 
Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children 

LCWR February 2019 Newsletter link: 

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 today for 4-month-old Cayden; for alertness and skill for her surgical team during the 10-12-hour surgery, and for strength for her family. 
  • for Sally for a speedy and complete recovery following yesterday’s surgery. 
23. WEDNESDAY - St. Vincent/St. Ildephonsus/St. Marianne Cope/St. Emerentiana 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • for safe travel for those coming to Reading to participate in the International Inspirational Committee (IIC) Meetings January 25 to 28, 2019. 
  • for Sisters Gilbetânia Ferreira de Andrade and Lusete Morelli for safe arrival today in the U.S. from Brazil. Welcome! 
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 Carolyn Muus who entered eternal life this morning, Wednesday, January 23, 2019, in Reading Hospital Tower Health, West Reading, PA at the age of 76 and in the 56th year of her religious life. Sister’s viewing will be held on Friday, January 25, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Sister’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 26, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. in St. Joseph Villa Chapel, Reading, PA. ( If you will be attending the reception at the Motherhouse following the Mass at St. Joseph Villa, please call the Motherhouse Reception Desk at 484.334.7000 to leave word of the number attending.) 
  • for Bishop John M. Smith, 83, retired Bishop of the Trenton Diocese, died Tuesday, January 22, 2019. Bishop Smith’s body will be received in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral in Trenton on Friday, January 25, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. and will lie in repose until the celebration of the Mass of Jesus Christ the High Priest at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, January 26, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. Bishop Smith will be entombed in the Mausoleum of St. Mary Cemetery in Trenton following the Mass. https://www.trentonian.com/news/local/former-bishop-of-the-diocese-of-trenton-dies-at/article_038c863e-1ea2-11e9-89a6-b38760d6201b.html 
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 safe trip for Jessica. 
Follow-up to Service Trip to the Dominican Republic by Alvernia University Students 
Thursday, January 24, 2019, at Motherhouse, Reading, PA 
The Alvernia University students who participated in the Service Trip to the Dominican Republic in January will come to dinner at the Motherhouse on Thursday, January 24, 2019, along with the Campus Minister, to share with the sisters the highlights of their trip, some photos and reflections. We welcome them warmly and are grateful for their contributions to the mission in Santo Domingo. 

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

24. THURSDAY - St. Francis de Sales 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • for Sisters Janice Jolin and Joan Marie Roosa for safe travel to Reading, PA for the International Inspirational Committee (IIC) Meetings. Welcome! 
From Health Benefits and Government Programs 
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: 
  • for Sister Carolyn Muus – viewing tomorrow, Friday, January 25, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Villa. 
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 Diane who is undergoing serious surgery today and for a speedy and complete recovery. 
25. FRIDAY – Conversion of St. Paul 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • for the inspiration of the Holy Spirit during the proceedings of the International Inspirational Committee (IIC) Meetings being held January 25 to 28, 2019. 
Thank you 
Dear Sr. Marilisa and Sisters, Sr. Bernard and I would like to thank you and the Sisters for everything that you did, to help make it possible to be with our sister, Kathy, and her family during this difficult time. We both feel so blessed to have been with her when she passed. Thank you also for the cards, Masses and prayers! - Sisters Bernard Marie Magill and Colleen Marie Magill. 

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 Carolyn Muus – Mass of Christian Burial tomorrow, Saturday, January 26, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Villa Chapel. Reception follows in the Motherhouse Dining Room. ( If you will be attending the reception at the Motherhouse following the Mass at St. Joseph Villa, please call the Motherhouse Reception Desk at 484.334.7000 to leave word of the number attending.) 
National Wear Red Day – Go Red for Women’s Heart Health 
Friday, February 1, 2019 
Time to pull out that bit of red clothing that you thought you wouldn’t be wearing again until Valentine’s Day. February is Heart Health Month and “wearing red” on Friday, February 1st calls attention to women’s heart health. Bon Secours Hampton Roads will be celebrating Wear Red Day. Will you or your workplace be doing the same? If you have nothing red, a drawing of a red Valentine’s Day heart pinned on your clothing would work! While going through your day, listen to the song of your heart that has been beating since 22 days after your conception—lup dup, lup dup, lup dup! Have a Happy Heart Day! https://www.goredforwomen.org/-/media/grfw-files/wear-red-day-resources/grfw-national-wear-red-day-poster-english.pdf?la=en&hash=7B41E110DE296C4C01418C202A619947559EC795 


26. SATURDAY – Sts. Timothy and Titus 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 


27. SUNDAY – Third Sunday in Ordinary Time 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

28. MONDAY – St. Thomas Aquinas 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From Sister Marilisa da Silva 
International Inspirational Committee 
Today, January 28 2019, on this last day of the International Inspirational Committee meeting, on behalf of all of us, I want to thank the members of the Committee who so diligently are preparing future TAUs and a House Chapter with the theme, Fraternal Life. During these last days, the Committee through prayer, reflection and planning, have worked to find ways to help all of us throughout the Congregation to live our commitment of LOVE expressed in our fraternal life as we decided in our Directions of the 2016 General Chapter: 

Afire with love, we embrace transformative Fraternal Living by: 
  i.   seeking mutual forgiveness; 
 ii.   valuing diversity; 
iii.   eradicating prejudice. 

In light of our consecration, we are called to witness to the world today, the ones who deepen the values of forgiveness, inclusiveness and communion . We all need to intensify our relationships with God, so we can build relationships with others. We all must heal our own selves in order to bring healing to the world. We all need to embrace the love of the Trinity as we are called to embrace one another. Let us raise our hearts and minds to the God of mercy, compassion and love and walk humbly with Him. Have a blessed week! 

Reminder: Registration forms for the Novitiate Groups Weekend Renewal Retreats 

Due Thursday, January 31, 2019 – to Sister Ellen Lipsett, OSF, 450 Saint Bernardine Street, Reading, PA 19607-1737. 

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 Ilsa Maria Kaercher , Sister Marilisa da Silva’s sister, who died Sunday, January 27, 2019, in Brazil.. 
  • for Chyquel Young-Key, 28, who was fatally shot on the front porch of his home early Friday morning, January 25, 2019. He is an employee of the Aladdin Food Management Services who serve our sisters at Saint Joseph Villa, nephew of Harry Armstrong, our manager of Aladdin and cousin to Tiara Robinson also on the staff of Saint Joseph Villa. We mourn his loss, a very kind and cheerful presence among us. A big shock to all of us here at St. Joseph Villa.– Sister Mary Joseph Tirpak https://www.readingeagle.com/news/article/reading-police-investigating-death-of-man 
  • for Edmund School, father of Bill School. 
  • for Thomas Schiller. 
  • for Anne Burr. 
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 Nivette Mileniewicz who is hospitalized in Reading hospital Tower Health in R 307 
  • for Debbie Gray who is undergoing medical testing and surgery. 
  • for successful surgical and medical procedures for those undergoing them this week. 

29. TUESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From Sister Marilisa da Silva 
This past week was fulfilled with light and darkness as we said goodbye to two more of our Sisters. It was an experience of love and care throughout the days! On Sunday, my blood sister entered to eternal life, too! THANK YOU, dear Sisters, for the love that you constantly show and reach out to others. May the following prayer from St. Columba, by the editor of Living with Christ be our comfort! 

O Lord, grant us that love which can never die, 
which will enkindle our lamps but not extinguish them, 
so that they may shine in us and bring light to others. 
Most dear Savior, enkindle our lamps that they may shine forever in your temple. 
M ay we receive unquenchable light from you so that our darkness will be illuminated and the darkness of the world will be made less. Amen. 

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 continued prayers for 4-month-old Cayden who had very serious surgery on January 22, 2019 and remains hospitalized in the ICU. She still has a long road ahead of her, but all—including twin Reagan--remain very hopeful that Cayden will make a complete recovery and are relying on the power of prayer. 
30. WEDNESDAY 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 

From Sister Rose Jameson 
Franciscan Action Network 
Reflection Date: February 3, 2018 - The 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time 

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 Lusete Morelli for safe travel from the U.S. to Brazil. 
  • for Sister Yosari Mercedes Adames Rosa for safe travel from the Dominican Republic and arrival today in the U.S. Welcome! 
31. THURSDAY – St. John Bosco 

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation. 
  • for Sisters Gracilete de Sousa Cardoso, Josefa Alves de Melo, and Samanta Karla de Sousa for safe travel from Brazil to the U.S. for the International Temporary Professed Sisters Encounter in Reading, PA (February 1 to 22, 2019). “All are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.” 
BFS Jubilee 
Sunday, May 26, 2019 
Thank you to those sisters who have sent in the Jubilee form indicating either attending or not attending. If you have not yet returned the form, please do so as soon as possible again indicating whether anyone is attending or not attending. Thank you very much. – Sister Paula Marie Nowak 

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 today for Natalie Shields. 
  • for Pam Farley who is seriously ill. 
  • for healing for Shirley Groff who is in the hospital. 
National Wear Red Day – Go Red for Women’s Heart Health 
Tomorrow, Friday, February 1, 2019 
Time to locate that red shirt, scarf, jacket, sweater, skirt, or red valentine-shaped pin to remind people that tomorrow is the beginning of Women’s Heart Health month [February]. https://www.goredforwomen.org/-/media/grfw-files/wear-red-day-resources/grfw-national-wear-red-day-poster-english.pdf?la=en&hash=7B41E110DE296C4C01418C202A619947559EC795 


















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