Relay for May 2025

Bernardine Franciscan Sisters

Relay

May 2025

1. THURSDAY – St. Joseph the Worker/National Day of Prayer

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

for our Sisters who will celebrate a birthday or feast day during the month of May. Many graces and blessings for you are precious to God and to us, your Sisters!
for safe travel to/from/and within Italy for Sister John Ann Proach (Congregational Minister) and Sister Jenniffer Acosta Rosario (Congregational Councilor) who are in Italy for several meetings including the triennial [once every tree years] International Union of Superiors General (UISG) Meeting.
for our Sister Jubilarians who will celebrate this month their commitment to God, to the Church, and to our Congregation.
for all our special intentions and for those who ask us to remember them and their special intentions in our prayers.

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.

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

JoAnn Ciampa, Joelle Mrozoski, and Josandra Ciucci

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

Conclave to elect the next pope set to begin on Wednesday, May 7, 2025

“Who are the cardinals who will choose the next pope?”

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/263773/who-are-the-cardinals-who-will-choose-the-next-pope

Prayer for the Conclave and the Election of a New Pope

Let us pray:

“O God, eternal shepherd,
who govern your flock with unfailing care,
grant in your boundless fatherly love
a pastor for your Church
who will please you by his holiness
and to us show watchful care.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever. Amen.”

Community Update

Please hold in prayer Sister Virginia Longcope, MSC (a resident of St. Joseph Villa) who was hospitalized on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

From Community Life

Welcome to spring and more sunshine! With the warmer weather and more sun, it is time to reach for the sunscreen to avoid unwelcome effects of exposure to sun. This month’s newsletter, Early Detection of Skin Cancer, gives some sound advice on protection from the sun’s rays. The document can be accessed on the intranet under Community Life, Newsletters. Enjoy the outdoors! – Sister Shaun Patrice Malone

The International Union of Superiors General (UISG)

The International Union of Superiors General announced its 23rd plenary assembly, "Consecrated Life: A Hope that Transforms," that will take place May 5-9, 2025, in Rome and also will mark the organization's 60th anniversary. https://www.uisg.org/en/news/2025-Plenary-Invitation-sr-Mary-Barron/

National Day of Prayer

“In the United States, the National Day of Prayer in 2025 is May 1. This American tradition is actually older than America itself, dating back to the Second Continental Congress, before the Declaration of Independence. Before America was born, it was already steeped in a tradition of prayer!” The theme for the 2025 National Day of Prayer…is "Pour Out to the God of Hope and Be Filled!" This theme is inspired by Romans 15:13. [Internet]

2. FRIDAY – St. Athanasius/First Friday

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Prayer for the Conclave and the Election of a New Pope

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion them /support them during this time:

for wisdom for John and a clear solution for the issues with his employer and his health problems.
for continued healing for Dr. Kim Lemon after her surgery.
for healing for Marcia after her procedure.
for complete healing for Paul A. (Hope, Michigan) who had a freakish accident and has serious health problems as a result of it.
for Sue K. [website]
for Jakub for a restoration to better health. [website]

3. SATURDAY - SS. Philip and James, Apostles/First Saturday

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sister Ellen Marie Burke

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

4. SUNDAY – Third Sunday of Easter

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

The International Union of Superiors General (UISG)

The International Union of Superiors General’s 23rd plenary assembly, "Consecrated Life: A Hope that Transforms," begins tomorrow, May 5, 2025 and continues through May 9, 2025 in Rome and also will mark the organization's 60th anniversary. https://www.uisg.org/en/news/2025-Plenary-Invitation-sr-Mary-Barron/

5. MONDAY –Cinco de Mayo/National Teacher Appreciation Week-May 5-9, 2025

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Prayer for the Conclave and the Election of a New Pope

The International Union of Superiors General (UISG)

The International Union of Superiors General’s 23rd plenary assembly, "Consecrated Life: A Hope that Transforms," begins today, May 5, 2025 through May 9, 2025 in Rome and also will mark the organization's 60th anniversary. https://www.uisg.org/en/news/2025-Plenary-Invitation-sr-Mary-Barron/

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion them /support them during this time:

for healing for Jim Keeney in preparation for a serious medical procedure.
for prayers for healing for Grace.

Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is a yearly celebration held on May 5 to celebrate Mexico's victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza.

6. TUESDAY – National Teacher Day

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Tomorrow, May 7, 2025, the Conclave to elect the next pope begins

The papal conclave to elect the next Pope will begin on May 7, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. Rome Time [10:30 a.m. EST] with a prayer service in the Pauline Chapel. This will be preceded by a Mass in St. Peter's Basilica at 10 a.m. [4:00 a.m. EST]. The cardinals will then process into the Sistine Chapel and take their oaths of secrecy.

The conclave of cardinals are expected to vote on that day. The conclave will continue until a pope is elected. One vote is expected the first day, then two each morning and two each afternoon until a candidate claims the two-thirds majority. [Internet]

How the conclave works: It's guided by a rule book and a prayer book- Detroit Catholic

Prayer for the Conclave and the Election of a New Pope

From Sister John Ann Proach (Congregational Minister) – First Report from Rome

Sisters John Ann and Jenniffer arrived in Rome, Italy on May 1, 2025. Sister John Ann attended the Canon Law Workshop on May 2^nd and 3^rd. On Saturday, Sisters John Ann and Jenniffer attended a Mass for Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica where they had front row seats and also remembered all the BFS in their prayers. They had the opportunity to visit Pope Francis’ tomb on Sunday. Sister John Ann is attending the International Union of Superiors (UISG) on May 5-9, 2025. She is facilitator for her group at Table 11 which consists of two Sisters from the United States, one from India, Hungary, Canada, Ireland, Rome, Malawi, Italy and the President from the LCWR. There are over 900 Women Religious in attendance.

Tomb of Pope Francis

From Sister John Ann Proach (Congregational Minister) – Second Report from Rome

The First Day of the UISG Assembly began with a welcome by the President, Sister Mary Barron. There are 98 tables with 10 Sisters to a table. Sisters Mary Barron and Patricia Muray presented a three-year report on the accomplishments of the UISG and its present status.

In the afternoon session, the participants were introduced to the Conversation in the Spirit Process. This was followed by the keynote address by Sister Mariola Lopez, titled Consecrated Life: A Hope that Transforms. Each table then engaged in Conversation in the Spirit Process. There are translation booths for 14 different languages, which is quite a technological production.

Community Updates (2)

Prayers are requested for the following sick Family member and for those who companion him during this time:

Prayers for George, Sister Immaculene Gudz’ brother, who was recently hospitalized.

Prayers are requested for the departed soul of our Sister’s Family Member and for the comfort and consolation of our Sister and her family:

for Tom Soroka, the husband of Sister Michele Grodzinski's niece, who died on Monday, May 5, 2025.

From the Relay – Important Technology Update

Sisters, we are continuing to have Internet outages which may be responsible for your receiving the Relay later than the time of its actual posting. Also, please be advised that the Internet as well as Internet-dependent devices will be down later this week into next week as the appropriate connections and installations are scheduled to be made in the Complex. During those days, there will be no Relay since it is Internet dependent. Please hold the successful completion of the process in your prayers.

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion them /support them during this time:

for Louise Roberge for successful surgery tomorrow, Wednesday, May 7, 2025, and for a speedy recovery.
for Adele, that her treatments are successful and her healing complete.
for Gena Cohen [website]

National Teacher Day

This year, we're joining together to listen to and stand with teachers and uniting to take action and demand our leaders provide the resources and respect educators deserve. [Internet]

7. WEDNESDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

for attendance by Sisters Sandra Lyons (Assistant Congregational Minister), Sisters Rose Jameson and Zioldé T. de Caldas (Congregational Councilors) in the Concepts in Leadership – Colloquia for Women Religious workshop May 7-9, 2025 in Malvern, Pennsylvania where various issues for leaders of religious congregations today will be addressed. [Source: p. 4 Sister John Ann’s April 15, 2025 letter]

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sister Joana Sortica

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

Prayer for the Conclave and the Election of a New Pope

Update on the Conclave- Today in Vatican City

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/conclave-pope-vote-today-cardinals-vatican-smoke-b2746153.html

From Sister John Ann Proach (Congregational Minister) – Third Report from Rome

On Tuesday, May 6, 2025 the UISG Assembly began with a prayer ritual. Sister Simona Brambilla, MC, the first female prefect of the Dicastery of Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, gave a presentation entitled, “How is Consecrated Life a Transforming Hope?” Her presentation was followed by a question and answer period. Cardinal Angel Fernandez Artime was to join the participants for Mass; however, preparation for the Conclave took precedence. In the afternoon session, Sister Patricia Murray, UISG Executive Director, presented the Strategic Plan for the organization until 2030. Table conversation followed using the Conversation in the Spirit Process. Sister then unveiled a new program for Sisters in Elder Care called the Anna Trust Fund. The session ended with a prayer ritual.

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion them /support them during this time:

for improved health for Allison.
for people who are dealing with chronic or terminal illnesses.

8. THURSDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Prayer for the Conclave and the Election of a New Pope

From Sister John Ann Proach (Congregational Minister) – Fourth Report from Rome

The UISG Assembly opened with a prayer to the Holy Spirit for the proceedings of the Conclave. The morning panel presentation, “Religious Women: Bearers of Hope in Demanding Situations” was delivered by Sister Margaret Maung, RNDM from Myanmar, Sister Alba Teresa Castello, MML from Amazonia, and Sister Lisa Buscher, RSCJ from the USA Mexican Border. This was followed by table sharing. The Eucharistic Liturgy was celebrated in the African Culture with a magnificent choir.

The afternoon panel presentation entitled, “Religious Women, Beacons of Hope in a Synodal Church” was presented by Sister Solange Sia, NDC from Côte d’Ivoire, Sister Geraldina Cespedes Ulloa, MDR from the Dominican Republic, and Sister Shalini Mulackal, PBVM from India. This was followed by table sharing. The session concluded with a prayer.

FROM THE RELAY—IMPORTANT TECHNOLOGY UPDATE

TODAY’S INTERNET-DEPENDENT RELAY IS THE LAST UNTIL THE ANTICIPATED COMPLETION and ACTIVATION OF THE NEW INTERNET AND TELEPHONE SYSTEMS IN THE ENTIRE COMPLEX—ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, ANNEX, AND MOTHERHOUSE. THE TARGETED DATE FOR THE ACTIVATION OF THE INTERNET AND PHONES IS THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2025. THE REGULAR RELAY WILL RESUME BY MONDAY, MAY 19, 2025. Please hold the successful completion of these projects in your daily prayers during this time.

Though new special requests will not be posted May 8 through May 18, 2025, remember to include the following in your prayers:

for all our special intentions and for those who ask us to remember themselves or others—living or deceased—in our prayers.

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 Rick Ayotte, Patty Reynold's brother, who died Wednesday evening, May 7, 2025. (Patty is a Saginaw, Michigan Associate.)

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion them /support them during this time:

for Shelly. [website]

All messages that are already in queue for the time period May 9 through May 18 are posted below.

9. FRIDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

10. SATURDAY - – St. Damien de Veuster of Molokai/St. John of Avila

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

for safe travel for all during this busy Mother’s Day weekend.
for safe travel to Assisi for Sisters John Ann Proach (Congregational Minister) and Jenniffer Acosta Rosario (Congregational Councilor) to the International Franciscan Conference of the Third Order Regular (IFC-TOR) General Assembly 2025 from May 11-15, 2025. “The theme of the Conference will center on Christ’s challenge to Francis to Repair His House.”

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sister Maria Leonil Araujo Perreira (Márcia)

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

11. SUNDAY – Fourth Sunday of Easter/World Day of Prayer for Vocations/Mother’s Day

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

World Day of Prayer for Vocations

2025 marks the 62nd anniversary of the World Day of Prayer for Vocations.

Message prepared by our deceased Pope Francis

https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/vocations/documents/20250319-messaggio-62-gm-vocazioni.html

What does it mean to be a mother?

https://momschoiceawards.com/blog/moms-describe-what-it-means-to-be-a-mother/

Happy Mother’s Day to all who are “mom” to the next generation”!

12. MONDAY – SS Nereus and Achilleus/St. Pancras

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sister Genilse Luiza Dalmedico

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

13. TUESDAY –Our Lady of Fatima

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sister Jacinta Respondowska

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

Our Lady of Fatima

Our Lady of Fátima - Wikipedia

14. WEDNESDAY – St. Matthias, Apostle

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

15. THURSDAY – St. Isidore/International Day of Families

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

International Day of Families

First held in 1994, the International Day of Families helps raise awareness about the many issues relating to and affecting families, including healthcare, education, violence, discrimination and gender inequality.

16. FRIDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

17. SATURDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

18. SUNDAY – Fifth Sunday of Easter

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sister Phyllis Duncan

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

12. MONDAY – Addition

Community Update

We are communicating that our Sister Lori Maria Braun was admitted to the PUC Hospital in Porto Alegre. She is in very fragile health, so her condition is very serious. We invite all the Sisters to unite in prayer and ask God that she has faith, hope and courage in this difficult time for her. With our embrace. - Ir. Acélia Maria Sterz – Provincial Secretary

I invite all Sisters to join us in praying for Sister Lori Maria Braun, hospitalized in serious condition at Hospital São Lucas - PUC, in Porto Alegre. - Sister Zioldé T. de Caldas, OSF

14. WEDNESDAY - Addition

From the Relay

We have Internet at the moment so here’s hoping that today’s Relay reaches you.

Community Updates (3)

Sister Jo Louise Magdalinski transitioned from Pottsville, PA to St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA as a resident on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

Sister Joseph Marie Magdalinski transitioned from Pottsville, PA to St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA as a resident on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

Sister Melita Skiendziel has a new room phone number 484.579.2323. Sister is in St. Joseph Villa room 276.

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion them /support them during this time:

for Dave Fontanella who is seriously ill. Both Dave and wife, Maggie are longtime benefactors.

16. FRIDAY - Addition

Community Update

for Sisters John Ann Proach and Jenniffer Acosta Rosario for safe return travel to the United States.

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion them /support them during this time:

for healing for David Cecco who is hospitalized in serious condition.
for continued prayers for healing for Paul Adam (Hope, Michigan) who is slowly recovering from his freak accident and for his family.
for Tatum, a child suffering serious health complications since his birth last year; and for his family who are praying for his survival.
for improved quality of life for people dealing with serious brain diseases that encompass a wide range of conditions, that can significantly impact brain function and quality of life, ranging from mild to severe impairments. [Internet]
for Makenna. [website]

19. MONDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Updates (3)

Please pray:

for Sister Dolorice Domin who was admitted to Reading Hospital Tower Health on Friday, May 16, 2025.
for 3-year-old Sloan Rodgers, Sister Jean Anthony Rodgers’ grandniece, who is having surgery today, Monday, May 19, 2025.
for Josefa Herculana Lima, Sister Tereza das Dôres Lima’s sister-in-law, 77 years, who died from a heart attack on Sunday April 18, 2025, in São Paulo, Brazil.

CIC Action Plan

A special thanks to all the convents and living areas in the Motherhouse who already submitted an action plan. The deadline to submit the action plan to Sister Grace Keane is tomorrow, Tuesday, May 20, 2025, and may include a Social Pillar, Economy Pillar, and Ecological Pillar, but it isn’t mandatory to do one of each. To clarify, because we live in different geological areas, the action plan is to be sustainable and for that particular convent or living area. It is not meant for the entire congregation to put into practice.

Gratefully, Sisters Carol Ann Nawracaj and Cecilia Bondy, CIC Co-Chairs

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 Mary Smith’s mother Glenora Alexander who died on Saturday, May 17, 2025. Mary Smith works at St. Joseph Villa.
for Walter Glodek.
for Bill Lesjak who died following a painful illness, and for his wife Lorraine and grieving family.

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion them /support them during this time:

for a successful outcome of a serious medical procedure for Jim Keeney.
for health and blessings for Brenda Liddy.

20. TUESDAY – St. Bernardine of Siena

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR)

LCWR June Newsletter 2025

https://www.lcwr.org/resources/publications/june-2025

St. Bernardine of Siena “fervently preached devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus. In Venice, he persuaded rival households to exchange their distinctive coats of arms for the unifying name of Jesus, with the symbol IHS. It was because of Bernardine’s preaching that Jesus’ name was added to the Hail Mary.” [“…blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.”]

Source: Magnificat, October 2023 Vol. 25, No.8, p. 77

Happy St. Bernardine of Siena!

21. WEDNESDAY – St. Christopher Magallanes and Companions

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation .

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sister Inez Duengersleber

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

A Message for Jubilarians from Sister Paula Marie Nowak, Chairperson

Jubilarians, On Sunday, May 25, 2025 please come to the back of the Sacred Heart Convent Chapel at 10:00 a.m. to receive your small corsages. Then we will take pictures in the chapel by groups and then one with everybody. Afterwards you will go to your seats in the middle of the chapel. Liturgy will begin at 11:00 a.m. When it is time to renew your vows, turn the bottom of the candle to the right for the light to go on. You may keep the candle or return it to me. Thank you.

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion or support them during this time:

for successful surgery and complete recovery for Kate.
for Annette, Mary, Thelma, Milo, Gary, Jameson H, Jameson B. [website]
for a peaceful death for Pat.

22. THURSDAY – St. Rita of Cascia

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

From the Relay

There will be no regular Relay posted on Monday, May 26, 2025, because of the Memorial Day holiday in the U.S. The Relay Office will close at noon on Friday, May 23, 2025. The Regular Relay (website and Constant Contact) will resume on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. If time allows, check back during the weekend to see if any Congregational updates are posted.

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion or support them during this time:

for Pat Cinfici, a long-time friend and benefactor, for successful surgery today, May 22, 2025 at 10:30 a.m.
for Haley, Mr. Michael, Mrs. Nichol, family reunion. [website]

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 6-year-old Lucas James Ratti. [website]
for Erma, Grace, Ruth, Ida, Cora, Fredrick, Lawrence, and Linda. [website]
for Erma, Edmund. Leopold and wife Władysława. [website]

23. FRIDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

for safety for all who are traveling this weekend.

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sister Veraci da Silva Crispa

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

Community Update

Sister Dolorice Domin was discharged from Reading Hospital and returned to St. Joseph Villa on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Please continue to pray for her full recovery. Thank you.

A Message for Jubilarians from Sister Paula Marie Nowak, Chairperson

From Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) – Sister Grace Keane

Laudato Si` week begins on May 24 and ends on May 31, 2025 in commemoration of the publication of the Encyclical, Laudato Si`. The theme is Raising Hope. You are invited to create activities for the week around Pray-Learn-Act. Some may be individual, and others may be for the local fraternity. If you would like to share your LSW activities with JPIC, they will be collated and saved to use during the year. The Novena for Creation is posted on the Community Intranet under Laudato Si`. On Thursday, May 29, the MH Community will celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Laudato Si` with a birthday cake and conversation at dinner. Contact Sr. Grace for more information.

Laudato Si’ Movement – Catholics for Our Common Home

Creation Novena – May 23 through May 31, 2025

Day 1 - A Prayer for All Creation

Creator God, we give thanks for the gift of creation. We give thanks for its beauty and the joy that beauty brings us. We give thanks for light that shines in the darkness, for the stars and the sun, for the air we breathe and the plants and animals that you have created, for earth and water, and for the daily sustenance we draw from them. Inspire us to see You, Creator, through all that You have created—all that you look upon as very good. Help us to care for creation as You instructed us. Help us be stewards of its abundant life. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion them /support them during this time:

for Patricia Newman, mother of Deb Genovese (Saginaw Associate), who died on May 22, 2025.

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion or support them during this time:

for Peter Rampson who will undergo emergency surgery today, Friday, May 23, 2025. Peter serves on our Development Board and teaches art at Alvernia.
for recovery for Mr. Yoches. For strength and courage for his family.
for continued healing for John.
for wisdom for G.

24. SATURDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

for safety for all who are traveling this weekend.

Laudato Si’ Movement – Catholics for Our Common Home

Creation Novena

Day 2 - A Prayer for the Animals

Creator God, we give thanks for the animals and for the grand diversity of life you have created. We give thanks for the roles animals play in our lives, both as our daily companions and as members of your creation that provide sustenance for us. We thank You for the wellbeing they bring us and for the glory the bring to your creation. As creation faces the wave of extinctions wrought by humankind, we ask You to strengthen us with prudence. Help us seek ways of living that allow all Your creatures to flourish. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

25. SUNDAY – Sixth Sunday of Easter

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

for safety for all who are traveling this weekend.
for the Sisters who will celebrate their Jubilee in Reading (PA) today.
In thanksgiving for every Sister Jubilarian for who she is and for what she is doing in the Name of Jesus – prayer, congregational ministry, volunteer work, ministry to one another, ministry of presence, ministry of suffering….

Laudato Si’ Movement – Catholics for Our Common Home

Creation Novena

Day 3 - Prayer for the Plants

Creator God, we give thanks for every kind of plant that bears seed and every kind that bears fruit. We thank You for all that plants provide and offer us, and for the ways they connect us with all life on Earth. Thank You for the sustenance—physical, emotional, and spiritual—that we draw from the plants. We give thanks for the grain, fruit, and vegetables we eat, and for the shrubs and flowers that fill our homes and parks. We give thanks for the oxygen they produce and the stability they bring to our world. As we see the unimaginably rapid destruction of rainforests, grasslands, and aquatic habitats, we ask that You give us courage to speak for the voiceless and to change our lifestyles. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

26. MONDAY – St. Philip Neri/Memorial Day in the U.S.

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

for safety for all who are traveling this weekend.

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sisters Philip Ann Yurkonis and Phyllis Marie Soja

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

Laudato Si’ Movement – Catholics for Our Common Home

Creation Novena

Day 4 - A Prayer for the Land

Creator God, we give thanks for the land. Thank You for the confidence and comfort we feel from the earth beneath our bare feet. Thank You for the earth that sustains us, as it is the home of the plants and animals from which we draw sustenance. Thank You for the many uses of minerals in our lives—the minerals that shelter us, heal us, and connect us. As we mine Your Earth beyond its capacity, as mountains are carved to nothing and rich soil turns to dust, give us a sense of measure. Help us see when we’ve gone far enough—when we’ve taken enough. Help us find a new direction. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Memorial Day - 8 Things You May Not Know About Memorial Day - HISTORY

In Memory of those who gave their lives that we might be free….

26. MONDAY – Additions

Community Updates (2)

Sister Vincent de Paul is in Reading Hospital Tower Health in critical condition. Please hold her in your prayers.

Sister Marie Janeen Obara is in Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center for a broken hip and will undergo surgery tomorrow morning, Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Please pray for a successful surgery and for complete healing.

27. TUESDAY – St. Augustine of Canterbury

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Laudato Si’ Movement – Catholics for Our Common Home

Creation Novena

Day 5 - A Prayer for Water

Creator God, we give thanks for water. We thank You for the rich depths of the seas, their unimaginable variety. We thank You for the rivers and lakes in our communities, for the sparkle of light that dances on their surface. We thank You for all the ways that water sustains us. We give thanks for the clean water that we are blessed to drink. We give thanks for the moisture that rises from the seas to become the rain that waters our crops. We give thanks for the power of the waves that stay within their shores. As we pollute and warm Your waters, give us foresight. Help us see the consequences of soiling Your waters and changing their ancient compositions. Help us protect our children and grandchildren now, by taking even small steps to preserve the great gift of water. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

From Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation – Sister Grace Keane

This link, h ttps://www.crs.org/reflections-laudato-si, is from the USCCB-United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, sent appropriately for Laudato Si` Week. It has many resources to last for many months. The JPIC office welcomes your comments and inspired ideas to be turned into action. The 'Justice Team' is shaping up, and its members so far are Bernard McGill, Gemma Legel, Grace Keane, Jean Jacobchik, and Marietta Andrzejewska. Contact Sister Grace Keane for more information and ways to help out that require no meetings. I hear from LCWR that the three intersecting issues of Climate, Migration, and Racism will continue. As more details are made available, I will pass the information along. Thanks for your support and prayers!

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion or support them during this time:

for healing for Barbara.
for Maddie C. [website]
for Haley for her non curable medical conditions. [website]
for Frances’ Aunt SN who is in the ICU in the hospital. [website]
for Lorrie and Pete. [website]

27. TUESDAY – Addition – Death of a BFS

Prayers are requested for the departed soul of our dear Sister and for the comfort and consolation of her family and friends:

for our dear Sister Vincent de Paul Malecki who entered eternal life this afternoon, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in Reading Hospital Tower Health, West Reading, PA at the age of 78 and in the 58th year of her religious life. Arrangements are pending.

28. WEDNESDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Update – Death of a BFS – Funeral Arrangements

Prayers are requested for the departed soul of our dear Sister and for the comfort and consolation of her family and friends:

for our dear Sister Vincent de Paul Malecki who entered eternal life yesterday afternoon, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in the Reading Hospital Tower Health, West Reading, PA at the age of 78 and in the 58th year of her religious life. Viewing on Friday, May 30, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Mass on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at 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 in the Motherhouse, please call St. Joseph Villa Reception Desk at 610.777.5556 Ext. 010 to leave word of the number attending. (Phones in the Complex—Motherhouse, Annex, and Administration Building--remain unable to receive outside calls.)

Community Update – Thank you

Dear Sisters, Today marks one month since my dear father was called by God to eternal life. During this time, I have experienced the pain of his absence, and the sorrow experienced by my family. However, I have also experienced a profound sense of gratitude and joy for the support of my second family, my Bernardine Franciscan Sisters.

Thank you, my beloved Sisters, for your presence, prayers, phone calls, emails, Masses, cards, and financial support for Masses and for my family. I took photos of all the cards and Mass intentions, translated them, and shared them with my family, who are deeply grateful to each of you from the bottom of their hearts.

Your support has made this difficult time more bearable for me. I understand that it was time for him to meet his heavenly Father, and I find comfort in knowing he is now happier and free from suffering. However, I often find that while the mind may accept this, the heart feels differently. Thank you my Sisters, I am very happy to have you as Sisters. May God bless all of you with abundant blessings and grace. With love and gratitude, Sister Angela Maria Teixeira de Sousa and Family

Congratulations, Immaculate Conception Province – Award Achievement

🌿 It is with great joy that we share a special achievement! 🌿

We have received the Laudato Si’ Action Platform certificate, an initiative of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. This recognition is the result of the commitment, effort and dedication of each sister, collaborator, volunteer and benefactor of our congregation in caring for our Common Home. This certificate is not just a title, but a renewed call to continue on the paths of ecological conversion, justice and solidarity with all creation. We thank everyone who is part of this journey!
💚🌍 #LaudatoSi
#CaringForOurCommonHome
#ChurchOutgoing
#EcologicalConversion

Laudato Si’ Movement – Catholics for Our Common Home

Creation Novena

Day 6 - A Prayer for the Air

Creator God, we give thanks for the air. We thank you for our enjoyment of its caress. Thank You for the soft play of wind in the treetops and the warm touch of a breeze against our faces. Thank You for the air we breathe, for the breaths we draw at every moment As we warm the air of Your Earth, help us understand its mighty power, its ability to not only caress but to destroy. As we pollute the air of Your Earth, help us understand how essential it is to breath itself. Give us understanding and the will to use our understanding well. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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 Bill Lesjak.

Prayers are requested for the following sick and/or needy Sisters, Family, Associates, Friends, and Benefactors and for those who companion or support them during this time:

for healing and return to health for Neil Blumenkopf.
for healing for Carol.
for healing for Margaret Ammond.

29. THURSDAY – The Ascension of the Lord/St. Paul VI

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

The Ascension of the Lord is observed today in the Ecclesiastical Provinces of Boston, Hartford, New York, Newark, Omaha, and Philadelphia. For all other U.S. Ecclesiastical Provinces, it is celebrated on Sunday, June 1, 2025.

Sisters’ May-June Birthdays Celebrated on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at St. Joseph Villa

Left, front to back: Sister Joseph Marie Madalinski, Sister Andrea Michalczyk (partially hidden), Sister Maria James Riedel,

and Sister Phyllis Marie Soja.

Far end of table: Sister Stella Ann Tumanow.

Right, front to back: Sister Jane Frances Dutkiewicz, Sister Helene Potoczny,

Sister Ruth Ann Rogozinski, Sister Sheila Tague, MSC, and Sister Noemia Ana Lenhart

The Sisters are watching intensely the magic performed by Sister Carol Ann Nawracaj.

In Memoriam – Sister Vincent de Paul Malecki

From Tom Roach, Parishioner at the Shrine of St. Jude, Rockville, Maryland

The parishioners of the Shrine of St. Jude wish to extend our condolences to the sisters of the Bernardine Franciscan Order in Reading, PA on the loss of our dear friend, Sister Vincent de Paul Malecki. She was the last living Bernardine Sister who taught our school children until 1991 and served our parish until 2016. Our school recognized the Bernardine Sisters’ contribution by installing a plague and naming a wing after the Bernardine Sisters who taught our school children for over 60 years. Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let the perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. God Bless.

Here are a few photos of Sister Vincent de Paul that several parishioners contributed to her memory. Sister Vincent de Paul Malecki (78)- RIP- July 19, 1946 to May 27, 2025 · Feb 4, 2015 – May 28, 2025 �

Laudato Si’ Movement – Catholics for Our Common Home

Creation Novena

Day 7 - A Prayer for Humanity’s Place in Creation

Creator God, we give thanks for the role that You gave us as the stewards of Your creation. Thank you for the charge to both till and keep the garden, for the ways in which creation both fulfills our needs and offers a way to honor You. Thank You for the complexity and beauty of all Your systems on Earth. Thank You for the exquisite balance that has cradled humanity. Thank You for the steady predictability of rain and heat that has for centuries allowed us to grow crops, husband livestock, and thrive. Give us the wisdom to manage this great balance. Help us make the decisions in the long-term interest of your creation, decisions that are rightful for a steward appointed by the Creator of all. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

30. FRIDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sisters Joan Eileen Christian and Joan Marie Roosa

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

Laudato Si’ Movement – Catholics for Our Common Home

Creation Novena

Day 8 - A Prayer for Vulnerable People

Creator God, we give thanks for the poor. We give thanks for resilience and strength. We give thanks for the opportunity to know the poor, to serve them, and to love them. As our harm to creation harms all who share it, help us grow in solidarity. Help us follow the words of Proverbs, to “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.” Help us speak truth in the presence of corruption, selfishness, and short-sightedness. Help us speak prophetically to our brothers and sisters, and to reflect on Your truths in our own lives, that we may change our habits to truly care for all Your beloved children. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

31. SATURDAY - The Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister(s)

who celebrate feast days/birthdays today

Sisters Jeanne Marie Budd and Mary Elizabeth Klier

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

Laudato Si’ Movement – Catholics for Our Common Home

Creation Novena

Day 9 - A Prayer of Thanks for the Creator

Creator God, we give thanks for You—for your coming among us and all that you created. Thank You for the magnanimous gift of creation itself, which heralded the birth of Your Son. Thank You for every aspect of creation, as every bit of its goodness and order reveals You. Thank You for the love that You manifest in creation. We thank You for the gift of Your love beyond measure, and we thank You for bestowing on us the gift to love in return. Thank You for the sustenance, strength, and peace that Your creation gives us. Thank You for our place within the fabric You have woven. Thank You for the unique gifts bestowed on each of us, and especially for the gifts of resilience and beauty in our poorest sisters and brothers. We ask that You increase our capacity to love, that You give us the resolve to love in deeds and not simply in words. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

The Visitation

Chapel at Colegio Maria Imaculada, Porto Alegre, RS Brazil

lower portion of left stained glass window

FAREWELL, MAY!

WELCOME, JUNE!