Relay for January 2025

1. WEDNESDAY – Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God – the eighth Day of Christmas – eight maids a-milking - New Year’s Day

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

• for our Sisters who will celebrate a birthday or feast day during the month of January. Many graces and blessings for you are precious to God and to us, your Sisters!
• 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.

Pope Francis – World Day of Peace 2025

https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/peace/documents/20241208-messaggio-58giornatamondiale-pace2025.html

Prayer for Jubilee Year 2025

Pilgrims of Hope

The Jubilee Prayer

Father in heaven,
may the faith you have given us
in your son, Jesus Christ, our brother,
and the flame of charity enkindled
in our hearts by the Holy Spirit,
reawaken in us the blessed hope
for the coming of your Kingdom.

May your grace transform us
into tireless cultivators of the seeds of the Gospel.
May those seeds transform from within both humanity

and the whole cosmos
in the sure expectation
of a new heaven and a new earth,
when, with the powers of Evil vanquished,
your glory will shine eternally.

May the grace of the Jubilee reawaken in us,

Pilgrims of Hope,
a yearning for the treasures of heaven.
May that same grace spread
the joy and peace of our Redeemer
throughout the earth.
To you our God, eternally blessed,
be glory and praise for ever.
Amen.

EXTRA! EXTRA! SPECIAL SANTA’S WORKSHOP EDITION

Santa’s Helpers at the Bernardine Center-Chester, PA – December 22, 2024

Sisters Patricia Lynn Farrell and Paula Marie Nowak arrange gifts on the shelves

2. THURSDAY –– SS. Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen/the ninth Day of Christmas – nine ladies dancing

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Updates

• Prayers for a successful procedure tomorrow, Friday, January 3, 2024, for Dorothy, Sister Danielle Marie Kubelsky’s sister.
• Prayers for Sister de Lourdes Okoniewski who was admitted to Penn State St. Joseph Medical Center (room 1051) on Monday, December 30, 2024.

Giving Tree – Our Lady Queen of Martyrs (Michigan)

Some eighth grade students with our giving tree in front of our vocation board in the vestibule of our church, Our Lady Queen of Martyrs - Sister. Francesca Thérèse Bozzo

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 Dan who is in hospice and for peace and comfort for his wife Denise and their family.
• for a healthy recovery for Jim.
• for Jamie and Beth.
• for business success for Al Costa.

3. FRIDAY – The Most Holy Name of Jesus/First Friday - the tenth Day of Christmas – ten lords a-leaping

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Update

• for healing for Tommy, Sister Helen Marie Gwiazda's cousin.

From Health Benefits and Government Programs

Please send a copy or the original of any letter or information that you receive to your residence address from the Social Security Administration or any other government 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:

• Please pray for Cynthia, Peter Rampson’s aunt, who had a major fall and is in a serious state. Please pray that the family makes the best decision for her care.

The Most Holy Name of Jesus

St. Paul to the Philippians 2:10-11 writes: “at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

“In Hebrew, Jesus means ‘God saves,’ a name that describes his mission and identity.” – The Little Blue Book Advent and Christmas Seasons 2024-2025, Carlson, Erin Looby (Editor and writer), FP Horak (Printer), copyright 2024 Diocese of Saginaw, Michigan

4. SATURDAY - St. Elizabeth Ann Seton/First Saturday - the eleventh Day of Christmas – eleven pipers piping

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 Severina Slawski

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

5. SUNDAY – The Epiphany of the Lord/the twelfth Day of Christmas – twelve drummers drumming

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Update

• Sister Christelle’s “official” Congregational Feast day is on the “movable” Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, this year Sunday, January 5th. However, Sister chooses to celebrate her feast day each year on January 6th, the original “fixed” Feast of the Epiphany. Happy “official” Church Feast day today, Sister Christelle!

On the Epiphany of the Lord, the moveable feasts of the current year are announced:

• March 5, 2025-Ash Wednesday, beginning of Lenten season
• April 20, 2025-Easter Sunday
• May 29, 2025 [or where applicable June 1, 2025] the Ascension of the Lord
• June 8, 2025-Feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi)
• November 30, 2025-First Sunday of Advent

Source: Magnificat, January 2025, Vol.26, No.11, p.73 (From the Roman Missal, Third Edition, Appendix 1)

From Health Benefits and Government Programs

Please send a copy or the original of any letter or information that you receive to your residence address from the Social Security Administration or any other government office. Thank you. - Sister Danielle Marie Kubelsky

6. MONDAY – (St. André Bassette)

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Today we offer our prayers and good works for our dear Sister

who celebrates her feast day today

Sister Christelle Czernek

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

Sister Christelle’s “official” Congregational Feast day is on the “movable” Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, the date of which changes by the Church each year. However, Sister chooses to celebrate her feast day each year on January 6th, the original “fixed” Feast of the Epiphany.

Community Update

Please pray:

• for Sister Melita Skiendziel who was admitted to Reading Hospital on Friday, January 3, 2025. 
• for healing for Steve Sninsky, brother of Sister Mary Sninsky.

Edited Dates for January 5th Relay

On the Epiphany of the Lord, the moveable feasts of the current year are announced:

• March 5, 2025-Ash Wednesday, beginning of Lenten season
• April 20, 2025-Easter Sunday
• May 29, 2025 [or where applicable June 1, 2025] the Ascension of the Lord
• June 8, 2025-Pentecost Sunday
• June 15, 2025-Trinity Sunday
• June 22, 2025-Feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi)
• November 30, 2025-First Sunday of Advent

Sources include the Committee on Divine Worship. Liturgical Calendar for the Dioceses of the United States of America 2025. Internet for Trinity Sunday date.

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 29-year-old Emily Lauck.
• for the following who are ill: Alan Heinig, Sr., Reba Micyus, Janet Primeau, Susie Macera, Victoria and Benny, and Alex.
• for Anne Dewald who recently lost everything in a fire. [Website]
• for the Carratala family. [website]
• for Margaret Lawson. [website]
• for Felix and Luisa Monteiro. [website]
• for Hannah W. in Hobart, IN. [website]
• for the family of Gariss Rapada. [website]

7. TUESDAY – (St. Raymond of Penyafort)

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Update

News from the Immaculate Conception Province

Please hold in prayer the Sisters from the Northeast Region of Brazil, Mozambique, and the Dominican Republic who are present for the Annual Retreat in Casa da Porciúncula, Fortaleza, CE from January 4 to 10, 2025.

On the Left, front to back: (Bernardine Franciscan Sisters) Maria de Fatima Vieira, Rita de Cassia Lima Barbosa, Maria Lucia de Araujo, Nita Ricardo Rassude, Maria Socorro Alves, Antonia da Silva Pimenta.

In the background: (Bernardine Franciscan Sisters) Maria Cristina Melo, Helena Marinho de Melo, Angela Maria Teixeira de Sousa, and Maria Celeste Vieira.

On the right, back to front: (Bernardine Franciscan Sisters) Yasmim Victoria dos Santos Oliveira, Lucimara Martins da Silva, and Raimunda de Sousa Fernandes; (Postulant) Jaciara Vasconcelos Costa; (Retreat Leader) Sister Therezinha Antônia Sotopietra (Franciscan Catechist Sisters); (Bernardine Franciscan Sisters) Gracilete de Sousa Cardoso and Valderez Maria Silva dos Santos.

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 2-year-old Jameson McDonough who was admitted to Hersey Medical Center with a serious heart condition. He is the grandson of our Board Chair, Maureen McDonough.
• for healing for Elaine Dunfee (former Sister Clare Anthony) and for a speedy recovery for her husband Bill.
• for Michelle Avery who is in hospice care. Prayers for Tom and the family.

8. WEDNESDAY

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 healing for Sr. Dianne Doughty, OSC.

From the Relay

The Relay does not participate in Facebook nor does Sister Ellen Lipsett. Please do not list the Relay or Ellen as a Friend.” Any messages destined for consideration for posting on the Relay must be e-mailed to relay@bfranciscan.org Please remove either or both from your “contacts”/”friends” list. Thank you.

9. THURSDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

From Health Benefits and Government Programs

Please send a copy or the original of any letter or information that you receive to your residence address from the Social Security Administration or any other government 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 Klair Lemon (father of Dr. Kim Lemon. Alvernia University Staff), for healing for several health issues.
• for successful surgery for Geri Dunaway.
• for Bill in thanksgiving and continued prayer for the improvement in his condition.

10. FRIDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Update

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

• for Patricia Squierdo, Sister Philip Ann Yurkonis’ cousin, who died Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

Opening of the 8th Centenary of the Canticle of the Creatures

The 8th Centenary of the Canticle of the Creatures will officially open tomorrow, January 11, 202 at the Sanctuary of San Damiano in Assisi, Italy. The event will include the Ministers General of the First, Third (Regular and Secular) Orders, and the President of the Conference of Franciscan Sisters.

The Canticle of the Creatures is a prayer written by St. Francis of Assisi in 1224 while he was almost completely blind. It expresses his gratitude and connection to God through the natural world and calls for people to see creation as a gift to be admired and protected. The Canticle's themes of humility, interconnectedness, and care for the Earth remain central to Franciscan spirituality.

The January 11th opening event celebrating the Canticle of Creatures will be held at 10:00 am (Assisi) and can be followed via streaming through the website www.centenarifrancescani.org

Assisi, Italy is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time in the United States. Therefore, 10:00 am Assisi, Italy time is 4:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time.

Not wanting to rise that early? The Program for the Opening is posted on the Saturday, January 11, 2025 Relay.

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 Emily Lauck for successful surgery today, January 10, 2025.
• for healing for Anne Cichon (Brother Rice High School staff).
• for correct diagnosis and treatment for Bethany.

11. SATURDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Update

Immaculate Conception Province – Formation

• Sister Lucimara Martins da Silva will renew her vows in Fortaleza, CE at the Parish of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart. We pray that God will continue to companion her and gift her with many graces and blessings.

Program for the Opening of the Centenary of the Canticle of the Creatures

https://www.centenarifrancescani.org/images/site/Notizie/2025-02%20Diretta%20e%20Download%20opuscoli/Opuscoli/ENGLISH%20-%20Opening%20of%20the%20Centenary%20of%20the%20Canticle%20of%20the%20Creatu.pdf

From Health Benefits and Government Programs

Please send a copy or the original of any letter or information that you receive to your residence address from the Social Security Administration or any other government office. Thank you. - Sister Danielle Marie Kubelsky

12. SUNDAY - The Baptism of the Lord

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Today marks the end of the Christmas Season. May every grace and blessing companion our Sisters, families, friends, benefactors, associates, former members, and all who have asked us to remember them and their intentions in our prayers. May the spirit of goodwill toward all continue throughout every day of 2025. May peace reign in our hearts, in our countries, and in our world. Be well. Be safe. Be blest!

13. MONDAY - St. Hilary – Mother Veronica Day

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

 HAPPY MOTHER VERONICA DAY!

 If Mother Veronica were living today, she would say to us:

“This is a new world for us, and God is calling us to do things

we have not done before.

We must find courage to take risks that we never had to take before, dear Sisters.”

On this special day of our Foundress, Mother Veronica, we ask God’s special graces and blessings upon every Sister

within the Congregation, Daughters of Mother Veronica. She would be so very proud of our open hearts and willingness

to be Gospel Women following our charism of trusting in Divine Providence during these uncertain times

while we daily continue to follow the call to be Sister and servant to all.

Community Updates - United States (3)

• Sister de Lourdes Okoniewski was discharged from Penn State St Joseph Medical Center on Saturday, January 4, 2025 and returned to St. Joseph Villa. Please continue to pray for Sister since she is in critical condition.

• for Phil, Sister Jean Therese’s brother, who is in the hospital.

• 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 Gale Busemeyer, Sister Grace Keane’s sister, who died Thursday, January 9, 2025 https://mulryanfh.com/tribute/details/2319/Gale-Busemeyer/obituary.html

Community Updates - Brazil (2)

Immaculate Conception Province - Formation

• Our Novice Sisters, Sisters Nita Ricardo Rassude and Sister Yasmim Victória dos Santos Oliveira, will profess first Vows today at the Nazaré Community in Fortaleza, CE.
• (Postulant) Jaciara Vasconcelos Costa will be admitted into the Novitiate today at the Nazaré Community in Fortaleza, CE.

We pray for their perseverance and for God’s many graces and blessings as they enter into the next phase of their Formation as Bernardine Franciscan Sisters. We ask the Good Lord to continue to send vocations to our Congregation.

Immaculate Conception Province – Formation

From Sister Gilbetânia Ferreira de Andrade (Provincial Minister)

" Dear Sisters, on Saturday, January 11, 2025, our Congregation rejoiced and celebrated with Sister Lucimara Martins da Silva as she renewed her vows. Gathered at the Parish of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, in Fortaleza, CE, we witnessed the YES of this dear Sister who assumes and renews her commitment of baptismal consecration through the public profession of the Evangelical Counsels".

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 Amy Curtis, Griffith and Carol who are ill.
• for Mary Ann that she may overcome her anxiety over her health issues.
• for David Kobus’ brother, Leonard, who is very ill. [website]
• for recovery from surgery for Gina Mesko who works part time for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. [website]
• for improved health for Jennie Norek. [website]
• for Luis Quintana’s mother for accurate diagnosis and correct treatment. [website]

From the Relay - A “For Your Information” Clarification

Prayer intentions followed by [website] indicate that those messages were sent by someone, not a member of the Congregation [from anywhere throughout the world!], to the Public Prayer Request area of our website. Those intentions are then forwarded automatically to the Relay for viewing [but lack the capability to respond]. Intentions without [website] originate directly to the Relay from a Bernardine Sister. Note: Please send your intentions directly to relay@bfranciscan.org Do not return a Constant Contact Relay message with a comment or prayer intention. Mail your intention as a new e-mail directly to relay@bfranciscan.org Thank you. – Sister Ellen Lipsett

14. TUESDAY

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 Elaine Barbosa Lima

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

Community Updates (2)

• Sister Melita Skiendziel was discharged from Reading Hospital and transferred to Complete Care of Berkshire Rehab Center on Monday, January 13, 2025. Please continue to keep her in your prayers.
• Pray for a successful surgery for Sister Francis Canice Reinhardt on Thursday, January 16, 2025, and for a speedy recovery.

From Sister Marie Faustina Wolniakowski, R.S.M., Delegate for Consecrated Life,

 Archdiocese of Philadelphia (PA)

Archbishop Pérez has written a letter expressing gratitude to our retired female religious, which also asks

 for their prayers as the Church of Philadelphia embarks on the new initiative outlined in his Pastoral Letter.

January 10, 2025

My Dear Sisters,

May the peace of Christ be with you! I write today with deep gratitude for your lifetime of

dedicated service and to request your prayers for the Church of Philadelphia’s new strategic

initiative as we embark on that journey together.

Your communities have formed the backbone of Catholic education, healthcare, and social

services throughout the Philadelphia region. From teaching in our schools to serving in our

hospitals, from feeding the hungry and sheltering those facing homelessness, to providing spiritual

direction, and so much more your presence continues to be a tangible expression of God's love in

our community.

As we embark on establishing Missionary Hubs throughout the Archdiocese, I humbly ask

for your prayers not only for me, but also for the dozens of women and men – clergy and lay –

who are pouring their hearts into this endeavor.

Your contemplative support and wisdom, born from decades of service, are invaluable to

our efforts. Please keep this initiative in your daily prayers so that we may reach those who have

drifted from the Church and bring Christ's healing presence to our communities.

Know that you remain in my daily prayers, and I thank God for your continued presence

in our local Church.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.

Archbishop of Philadelphia

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 Cynthia Gallagher, Peter Rampson’s aunt.
• for 44-year-old Stephanie (the daughter of one of our benefactors) who died on January 12, 2025 of an unexpected illness.
• for Marilyn Sullivan.

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 correct diagnosis and improved health for Alina and Christian.

15. WEDNESDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Updates

• for Sister Francis Canice Reinhardt who is undergoing surgery tomorrow, January 16, 2025.
• for Sisters who are preparing for future surgeries.
• for Sisters dealing with serious, chronic health issues.
• for Sisters recovering from surgery.

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 safe international traveling to the U.S. for Carolina and Laura.
• for peace, protection and strength for Patrick M. as he works through a very difficult situation today.
• for Joette Foris (our former Sister Joette Marie Foris) as she moves forward with additional treatment for her illness.
• for Erminia Cogliandro, mother of Lisa Cogliandro who is critically ill. 
• for Mary Ann for her surgery to be successful and for her health issues to be resolved.
• for the needs of Athul Raju. [website]

16. THURSDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Updates – Formation – Immaculate Conception Province

January 13, 2025 

Our former Novice Sisters, Sister Yasmim Victória dos Santos Oliveira (left) and Sister Nita Ricardo Rassude (right), professed their First Vows at the Nazaré Community in Fortaleza, CE.

Attending the Profession Ceremony (seated center) is Sister Samanta Karla de Sousa Carneiro.

21. TUESDAY - St. Agnes

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 Inez Molin (Cláudia) and Roberta Agnes McKelvie

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

Community Updates – Deaths of (2) Bernardine Franciscan Sisters

Prayers are requested for the departed souls of our dear Sisters and for the comfort and consolation of their families and friends:

• for our dear Sister de Lourdes Okoniewski who entered eternal life  Thursday evening, January 16, 2025, at 7:07 p.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA at the age of 92 and in the 75th year of her religious life. Sister’s viewing will be held on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Transportation of the body from St. Joseph Villa to the Motherhouse on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. Sister’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 25, 2025, 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 St. Joseph Villa 610.777.5556 to leave word of the number attending.) Do not call the Motherhouse Main Desk as it remains unable to accept outside calls.

• for our dear Sister Carol Anne Heitgen who entered eternal life yesterday morning,  Monday, January 20, 2025, at 7:01 a.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA at the age of 89 and in the 72nd year of her religious life. Sister’s viewing will be held on Monday, January 27, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Sister’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in St. Joseph Villa 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 St. Joseph Villa 610.777.5556 to leave word of the number attending.) Do not call the Motherhouse Main Desk as it remains unable to accept outside calls.

Community Updates – Living BFS

• Sister Francis Canice Reinhardt - was transferred from Reading Hospital Tower Health to Reading Hospital Rehabilitation at Wyomissing (Papermill Road) on Sunday, January 19, 2025. Please continue to keep her in your 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 Bob Price, father of Teri Price (Alvernia faculty member).

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 Antônia Adriana Bernard Pinto, who is facing serious health problems and will have surgery tomorrow, Wednesday, January 22, 2025.
• for Francisco Correira Lima who is ill and has been waiting a long time for a surgery that will, hopefully, happen next week.
• for João Sérgio de Souza, who is facing serious health problems following a fall during which he hit his head. 
• for Robert. [website]
• for Chris. [website]

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

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Update

• Pray for a successful surgery for Sister Helen Marie Gwiazda tomorrow, Thursday, January 23, 2025, and for a speedy and complete recovery.



     Celebrating Wisdom from the Global Sisterhood:

A Conversation with the Global Sisters Report

         THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2025

11 a.m. New York | 10 a.m. Chicago | 9 a.m. Denver | 8 a.m. Los Angeles

Authors discussion

Moderated by Gail DeGeorge, Editor Emerita, Global Sisters Report

Hosted by Global Sisters Report and Liturgical Press

         Global Sisters Report  and  Liturgical Press are pleased to hold an online panel discussion on Thursday, January 30 with some of the authors of the recently released book,  Wisdom from the Global Sisterhood: Contemporary Reflections by Catholic Sisters.

In recognition of the World Day of Consecrated Life (Feb. 2, 2025) the sisters will share reflections on themes including how the global sisterhood has enhanced religious life, how we can keep our “spiritual grounding” in such tumultuous times, and how their experiences hold lessons for all of us. They will also share some thoughts about observing the Jubilee Year, a sacred period declared by Pope Francis as a time of renewal, reflection, and grace.

        Webinar Registration - Zoom

PANELISTS INCLUDE:

Sr. Teresa Anabuike (Nigeria)  Teresa Anyabuike is a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur living in Abuja, Nigeria. For a time, she was the coordinator of a Catholic community self-help association, a department of the Justice, Development and Peace Mission in the Ilorin Diocese. She also served as a website manager for her Congregation. Currently she is working as a social worker in advocacy against social injustice.

Sr. Magda Bennesar (Spain) Maria Magdalena Bennásar (Magda) of the Sisters for Christian Community is from Spain. Studies in theology gave her a foundation for the charism of prayer and ministry of the word with an emphasis on spirituality and Scripture: teaching, conducting retreats and workshops, creating community and training lay leaders in Australia, the U.S. and Spain. Currently, she is working on eco-spirituality and searching for a space to create a center or collaborate with others.

Sr. Judy Dohner (U.S.)  Judy Dohner is a Sister of the Humility of Mary from Villa Maria, Pennsylvania. She has worked with migrants and immigrants for the past 30 years. She returned to the United States in 2018 after ministering in Haiti for 16 years and currently works with Haitian immigrants and refugees in Immokalee, Florida. She has written for Global Sisters Report and the National Catholic Reporter.

Sr. Margaret Gonsalves (India) Margaret Gonsalves is a Sister for Christian Community and feminist theologian active in the Ecclesia of Women in Asia and Indian Women Theologians Forum. As founder of ANNNI Charitable Trust, she networks in solidarity with nongovernmental organizations to run free residential programs in intensive spoken English to empower Indigenous girls and women. She organizes MADness workshops to implement the United Nations' sustainable development goals as well as the spirituality of Laudato Si' and Fratelli Tutti.

Sr. Kathryn Press (Ireland) Kathryn Press is an Apostle of the Sacred Heart of Jesus from Georgia. She professed her final vows in 2018. With a Master of Divinity and a background in religious studies, she has taught every grade from pre-K through high school. After opening a convent in Ireland, she taught in New York City for three years before returning to Ireland in September 2020 to work in evangelization and parish ministry.

Prayers for the needs of:

• Maria Del Rocio Barajas. [website]



23. THURSDAY – St. Vincent/St. Marianne Cope

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Two New Therapy Dogs Visit St. Joseph Villa

on Wednesday, January 22, 2025

Tatertot

Sheldon

27. MONDAY - St. Angela Merici

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Updates (2) – Living

Please pray for:

• Sister Joanne Slanga who was admitted to Reading Hospital Tower Health on Friday evening, January 24, 2025.
• Frank Potoczny, Sister Helene Potoczny’s brother, who is in hospice care.
• continued improvement for our Sisters who are recuperating from recent procedures and/or surgery.

Community Update – Deceased MSC Sister

• Prayers are requested for the departed soul of Sister Virginia Chnapko, MSC who died at St. Joseph Villa on Saturday morning, January 25, 2025. Arrangements are pending. Please also hold in prayer the members of Sister’s Congregation, her family, and friends. The following is not an obituary; rather, it is an undated piece written by Sister Virginia herself. https://mscreading.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SrVirginiaMarieChnapko.pdf

Community Update – Reminder for Today and Tomorrow – Deceased BFS

• Our dear Sister Carol Anne Heitgen entered eternal life last Monday morning, January 20, 2025, at 7:01 a.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA at the age of 89 and in the 72nd year of her religious life. Sister’s viewing is today, Monday, January 27, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in St. Joseph Villa, Reading, PA. Sister’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated tomorrow, Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in St. Joseph Villa 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 St. Joseph Villa 610.777.5556 to leave word of the number attending. Do not call the Motherhouse Main Desk as it remains unable to accept outside calls.

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 Dr. Vincent Parisi who died on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. He was a long-time major benefactor who helped lead our Capital Campaign when we renovated our Motherhouse. The family will receive friends at Kuhn Funeral Home, West Reading on Friday, January 31st, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, West Reading, PA on Saturday, February 1st at 10:00 am. Burial will follow at Gethsemane Cemetery.

• https://www.readingeagle.com/obituaries/dr-vincent-a-parisi-reading-pa/

• https://memorials.kuhnfuneralhomes.com/vincent-parisi/2339050/index.php?_ga=2.171963168.1014900385.1737990251-1865870250.1737990251&_gl=1*1cexb9y*_ga*MTg2NTg3MDI1MC4xNzM3OTkwMjUx*_ga_FE6Y7D25DQ*MTczNzk5MDI4Ny4xLjAuMTczNzk5MDI4Ny4wLjAuMA

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 Father Thomas Thorne, former chaplain of Villa Maria in Stamford, Connecticut, who requests prayers for his successful surgery and complete recovery.
• for healing for Ron, Heather, and Joyce.

28. TUESDAY – St. Thomas Aquinas

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 Francisca Lopes de Oliveira

Mass will be offered for your special intentions.

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 Sr. Dianne Doughty for successful surgery today, January 28, 2025 and for a speedy and complete recovery.



29. WEDNESDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Updates from St. Joseph Villa

• Sister Patricia Ann Czarnota was admitted to Penn State St Joseph Medical Center on Monday, January 27, 2025.
• Sister Joanne Slanga was discharged from Reading Hospital Tower Health on Monday, January 27, 2025, and is now back at the Villa.

• Sister Rosalita Roberts remains in Penn State St Joseph Medical Center where she was admitted on Thursday, January 23, 2025.
• Sister Francis Canice Reinhardt remains in Reading Rehab where she was transferred on Sunday, January 19, 2025.

Funeral arrangements for Sister Virginia Chnapko, MSC

All services are at Holy Guardian Angels Church, Kutztown Rd., Reading, PA

Viewing - 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. – Friday, January 31, 2025

Funeral Mass - 1:00 p.m. – Friday, January 31, 2025

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 the success of the new treatment for Dustin as well as renewed hope and courage for Elizabeth, his spouse.
• for Lorraine for continued success of her treatments.
• for Geri Dunaway for continued healing and pain-free mobility.

     Celebrating Wisdom from the Global Sisterhood:

A Conversation with the Global Sisters Report

         THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2025

11 a.m. New York | 10 a.m. Chicago | 9 a.m. Denver | 8 a.m. Los Angeles

Authors discussion

Moderated by Gail DeGeorge, Editor Emerita, Global Sisters Report

Hosted by Global Sisters Report and Liturgical Press

         Global Sisters Report  and  Liturgical Press are pleased to hold an online panel discussion on Thursday, January 30 with some of the authors of the recently released book,  Wisdom from the Global Sisterhood: Contemporary Reflections by Catholic Sisters.

In recognition of the World Day of Consecrated Life (Feb. 2, 2025) the sisters will share reflections on themes including how the global sisterhood has enhanced religious life, how we can keep our “spiritual grounding” in such tumultuous times, and how their experiences hold lessons for all of us. They will also share some thoughts about observing the Jubilee Year, a sacred period declared by Pope Francis as a time of renewal, reflection, and grace.

        Webinar Registration - Zoom

PANELISTS INCLUDE:

Sr. Teresa Anabuike (Nigeria)  Teresa Anyabuike is a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur living in Abuja, Nigeria. For a time, she was the coordinator of a Catholic community self-help association, a department of the Justice, Development and Peace Mission in the Ilorin Diocese. She also served as a website manager for her Congregation. Currently she is working as a social worker in advocacy against social injustice.

Sr. Magda Bennesar (Spain) Maria Magdalena Bennásar (Magda) of the Sisters for Christian Community is from Spain. Studies in theology gave her a foundation for the charism of prayer and ministry of the word with an emphasis on spirituality and Scripture: teaching, conducting retreats and workshops, creating community and training lay leaders in Australia, the U.S. and Spain. Currently, she is working on eco-spirituality and searching for a space to create a center or collaborate with others.

Sr. Judy Dohner (U.S.)  Judy Dohner is a Sister of the Humility of Mary from Villa Maria, Pennsylvania. She has worked with migrants and immigrants for the past 30 years. She returned to the United States in 2018 after ministering in Haiti for 16 years and currently works with Haitian immigrants and refugees in Immokalee, Florida. She has written for Global Sisters Report and the National Catholic Reporter.

Sr. Margaret Gonsalves (India) Margaret Gonsalves is a Sister for Christian Community and feminist theologian active in the Ecclesia of Women in Asia and Indian Women Theologians Forum. As founder of ANNNI Charitable Trust, she networks in solidarity with nongovernmental organizations to run free residential programs in intensive spoken English to empower Indigenous girls and women. She organizes MADness workshops to implement the United Nations' sustainable development goals as well as the spirituality of Laudato Si' and Fratelli Tutti.

Sr. Kathryn Press (Ireland) Kathryn Press is an Apostle of the Sacred Heart of Jesus from Georgia. She professed her final vows in 2018. With a Master of Divinity and a background in religious studies, she has taught every grade from pre-K through high school. After opening a convent in Ireland, she taught in New York City for three years before returning to Ireland in September 2020 to work in evangelization and parish ministry.

30. THURSDAY

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

Community Updates

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 Bartos’ sister, Mary Ann, and for her sister-in-law, Joan, who both are hospitalized with serious health issues.

Thank you

Thank you, Sisters, for your generous outpouring of sympathy and prayers as my sister Gale Keane Busemeyer enters into eternal peace. Sister Grace Keane

From Justice, Peace, and Integrity of the Earth – Sister Grace Keane

The JPIC Office will host a viewing of the Panel Discussion on Global Sisterhood at 11:00 AM today. Meet in the lower-level lounge in the room next to the library by the piano. A brief synod style discussion will follow. Refer to full posting on January 22, 2025 Relay on the Website for information.

Prayers for Special Need

• for Regina. [website]

31. FRIDAY - St. John Bosco

Prayers are requested for the needs of our congregation.

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

Message received from U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Action Alert

Save the Date for Tues. February 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the McGlinn Conference Center. Franciscan Action Network is presenting a webinar on immigration. For more information contact Sister Grace Keane at the JPIC Office. JPIC@bfranciscan.org  or phone 313 415 8554.

Health Update

Friday, February 7, 2025, is Go Red for Women Day, an annual event designed to bring awareness of heart disease in women, which is frequently undiagnosed. See the website of the American Heart Association for more information for this movement. Join the campaign. Wear something red on Friday, February 7, 2025!

From Health Benefits and Government Programs

Please send a copy or the original of any letter or information that you receive to your residence address from the Social Security Administration or any other government office. Thank you. - Sister Danielle Marie Kubelsky

FAREWELL, JANUARY!

WELCOME, FEBRUARY!