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Photo by Michael leSlie

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In This Issue

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www.shcj.org/american shcj american province Website

www.holychildschools.org Holy Child Network of Schools Website

CoRNELIA CoNNELLy, SHCJ FouNdRESS, SoCIETy oF THE HoLy CHILd JESuS

FEATuRES02 Beginning a New Term: American Province Leadership Team Installed05 God Among Us10 2011 Golden Jubilarians13 Cornelia’s Cause for Canonization14 2011 Holy Child Awards Dinner: A Night of Inspiration

ALumS

17 Holy Child High School, Waukegan18 Holy Child Academy, Sharon Hill18 Coming Full Circle: The Story of A Stone19 St. Leonard’s Academy19 School of the Holy Child, Senior School

SHCJ NEWS

20 Bravo!20 We Remember21 Celebrating the Living Legacy of Response-Ability

Actions is published by the American Province of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus. Comments or questions should be directed to:

office of Communications

1341 Montgomery AvenueRosemont, PA 19010610.626.1400, x320 phone610.525.2910 faxactions@shcj.org e-mail

Editor

Kim Cavallero

Associate Editors

Tese Currie, SHCJ (M. M. Aloysius)Sandy LovascioMichael Paolucci

design

Karp Graphic Design

Printing

Conner Printing, Inc.

on our Cover

(top left) Kathy Cordes, SHCJ (Sr. Kathleen Ann) with a student at St. Therese School; (top right) stringing beads in the Dominican Republic’s batey; (bottom left) a Cambodian student enjoys a book in the Sharon Reading Room; and (bottom right) Tese Currie, SHCJ (M. M. Aloysius) blesses Margaret Doyle, SHCJ (M. M. St. Dennis) during the installation of the new American Province Leadership Team.

Dear Friends,

When Cornelia Connelly founded the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, she rooted it in the Incarnation—the belief that God became one of us in Jesus Christ. Think about the magnitude of that—God made the decision to enter our human condition through

Jesus Christ and to take on every aspect of our human lives—joy, struggles, triumphs, and challenges. In Jesus, God revealed immense love and trust for humankind.

For Cornelia, the Incarnation was not a single event, but rather the pattern by which to shape her life. Jesus spent his life discerning God’s will for him through prayer and contemplation and acting in a way that would extend God’s love and mercy to others. So, too, did Cornelia. Through prayer and contemplation, she was led to act by founding the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, which extends God’s love and mercy to others.

What a blessing it is to see how the gifts and graces that God gave to Cornelia continue to blossom today. For example, I was particularly touched by what Catie McElwee recently shared about her experience of being led to act by serving as a lay volunteer at our mission site in the Dominican Republic: “To teach in the SHCJ school in the Dominican Republic was to see God’s grace at work, and looking into dark faces, I looked into the face of God. It was the place where I literally hugged God, sat God on my lap, and read to God. It was where God squeezed my hand, kissed my cheek, and beamed his or her smile at me.”

Through contemplation and prayer, Cornelia knew we could discern God’s call and be moved to act in ways that would bring about the reign of God, just as Jesus did. In this issue of Actions, we read the stories of people who have discerned God’s call to them, journeyed, and found God in ways they never expected. How are you called to act in furthering God’s reign today?

With gratitude and love,

Mary Ann Buckley, SHCJProvince Leader

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Each member of the new Province Leadership Team is blessed by a Sister of the Holy Child during the Installation Service. They also receive copies of the SHCJ Constitutions, American Province directives, General Chapter Enactments, a listing of the names of all the SHCJ of the American Province, and a globe.

Mary Ann Buckley, SHCJBorn in Chester, PA, Sr. Mary Ann has been a Sister of

the Holy Child for 47 years. She has served as a high school teacher, college administrator, the Director of Novices for the Society’s American Province, and as the International Leader of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus. In recent years, she was employed by the Religious Formation Conference to lead a formation program for men and women responsible for training new members of their congregations. In the past four years, she has been part of the SHCJ community in Chile, working as Vocation and Formation Director, with a special interest in ministering to migrant women.

In reflecting on her new appointment, Sr. Mary Ann says, “I am honored to serve and I thank all the Sisters for their prayers and support. Together with my team, I regard the next six years as a wonderful opportunity to work with our Sisters, along with many members of the laity, who are advancing our mission. I hope that, together, we will continue to dedicate ourselves to helping people develop their God-given gifts and talents so that they can lead meaningful lives and make a difference in our world.”

On Sunday, June 5, the newly appointed American Province Leadership Team was installed during a service in the New Sharon Chapel in Rosemont, PA. Mary

Ann Buckley, SHCJ, is serving as Province Leader. On her team are Margaret Doyle, SHCJ (M. M. St. Dennis); Sandra Lincoln, SHCJ (M. M. of Avila); Eileen Moughan, SHCJ (Sr. Marian Theresa); and Marie Ursino, SHCJ. The new leadership team will lead the Province of more than 150 sisters in the United States, Chile, and the Dominican Republic for six years.

Many of the Sisters of the Holy Child, who live and serve throughout the world and could not be present for the Installation Service, participated via a worldwide conference call. During the installation, much gratitude was offered to the outgoing leadership team: Helen McDonald, SHCJ (Sr. Vincent dePaul), Province Leader; Carroll Juliano, SHCJ (Sr. Dismas Mary); Carol Ann Knight, SHCJ (Sr. Maria Sponsa); Anita Quigley, SHCJ; and Jeanne Ronzani, SHCJ (M. Dominic Mary), for their generous service in leading the Province for the last six years.

The outgoing American Province Leadership Team takes a moment for a final team photo: (l to r) Carroll Juliano, SHCJ (Sr. dismas mary); Anita Quigley, SHCJ; Helen mcdonald, SHCJ (Sr. Vincent dePaul), Province Leader; Carol Ann Knight, SHCJ (Sr. maria Sponsa); and Jeanne Ronzani, SHCJ (m. dominic mary).

The incoming American Province Leadership Team during their Installation Service: (l to r) margaret doyle, SHCJ (m. m. St. dennis); Eileen moughan, SHCJ (Sr. marian Theresa); mary Ann Buckley, SHCJ; marie ursino, SHCJ; and Sandra Lincoln, SHCJ (m. m. of Avila).

Margaret Doyle, SHCJ (M. M. St. Dennis)A native of New York City, Sr. Margaret was taught by the

Sisters of the Holy Child at St. Elizabeth’s School and St. Walburga’s Academy.

After entering the Society, her first assignment was in Melrose, MA where she taught at St. Mary’s School. She also taught and served as Principal at schools in Waukegan, IL including Our Lady of Humility and St. Anastasia; in Potomac, MD at the Connelly School of the Holy Child; and in New York, NY at St. Elizabeth’s School and the Cornelia Connelly Center.

For the past five years, she has been Coordinator of the Society’s sponsored ministries in the American Province. Prior to that, she served on the American Province Leadership Team for six years. Currently, she is a member of the Board of Trustees of several Holy Child ministries. She will continue to serve on these boards, and in her role as Coordinator of Sponsored Ministries.

Sandra Lincoln, SHCJ (M. M. of Avila)Sr. Sandra has had a lifelong passion for science and

teaching. Having grown up in Western Massachusetts, she attended Smith College, receiving a degree in chemistry.

She taught high school chemistry, physics, and math

Beginning A New Term: American Province Leadership Team Installed

PhotograPhy by Michael leSlie

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Portrait by ellen cooPer © 2007

for many years at the Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child in Summit, NJ and the former Holy Child High School in Waukegan, IL. She earned both her master’s degree and doctorate in chemistry. She then went directly to the University of Portland in Oregon where she advanced to the rank of full professor and was appointed Chair of the Department of Chemistry.

Currently, Sr. Sandra chairs the Academic Affairs Committee of the Board of Trustees of Rosemont College. A love of teaching at the high school level inspired her to establish chemistry and SAT/ACT tutoring programs at De La Salle North Catholic High School in Portland.

Eileen Moughan, SHCJ (Sr. Marian Theresa)Sr. Eileen grew up in Philadelphia and graduated from

West Philadelphia Catholic Girls High School. Following graduation, she entered the Society. Sr. Eileen has extensive experience in elementary education, having taught at Annunciation School in Washington, DC, St. Mary’s Interparochial School in Philadelphia, PA, and Rosemont School of the Holy Child in Rosemont, PA.

Between 1976 and 1979, Sr. Eileen lived in Lo Barnechea, a town outside of Santiago, Chile where she used her talents in education and parish work during a time of upheaval and suffering in the country. She describes this as one of the most blessed experiences of her life. “Working in another culture really stretches you and leaves you with a greater sensitivity to others,” Sr. Eileen says.

Continuing her post graduate education at New York’s Pace University, Sr. Eileen was awarded a master’s degree in the Family Nurse Practitioner Program. She interned at Covenant House in New York and was later appointed Director of Nursing at Holy Child Center in Rosemont, PA. Sr. Eileen also provided home care to North Philadelphia area residents and was involved in Providence Center’s after school program.

Following a term on the Provincial Leadership Team that ended in 2005, Sr. Eileen assumed the role of Administrator of New Sharon in Rosemont in 2006, where she is currently.

Marie Ursino, SHCJSr. Marie attended Holy Child Academy in Sharon Hill, PA

and received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Rosemont College, an MST in teaching from the University of Dayton, and an MBA from Pace University’s Lubin Graduate School of Business.

For 16 years she taught biology, human physiology, and math and was Director of Student Activities at the former St. Leonard’s Academy in Philadelphia, PA, the Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child in Summit, NJ, and the School of the Holy Child in Rye, NY. Her journey then brought her to Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart in Princeton, NJ, where she was Head of the upper school for seven years.

She served on several boards of Holy Child schools, Rosemont College, the American Province Finance Committee, the SHCJ International Investment Committee, the Mission Effectiveness Committee for the Holy Child Network of Schools, and the SHCJ Planning Committee.

For the past 16 years, she has been Director of Counseling at Prep for Prep in New York City. Since 1978, Prep for Prep has identified New York City’s most promising students of color and prepared them for placement at independent schools in the city and boarding schools throughout the Northeast. As Director of Counseling, Sr. Marie is responsible for the academic, social, and emotional well-being of Prep for Prep‘s 770 students enrolled in independent day and boarding schools in grades seven through twelve.

K ey to understanding the mission and spirit of the Society of the Holy Child is the belief that God chose to become one of us, a human, in the person of Jesus Christ. In the Bible, each of the four gospels presents the many ways that God’s love was realized in the

earthly life of Jesus, culminating in his passion, death, and resurrection. God draws close to us through Jesus Christ, who lived as one of us. With the Spirit, He is still present and active in our world.

Jesus brings us closer to God. Our deepening relationship with God through the Spirit empowers us to loving action in Jesus’ name. So, everywhere, if you but look in our world today, you will still see God in action—God works in and through all of us, often leading us down paths we never knew we needed or wanted to go, but where we need to be and where we are moved to act in Jesus’ name. Just watch God acting in the Holy Child Sisters, Alums, and Associates featured here. Then, enjoy the adventure God has waiting just for you in your own life.

This introduction is based on “Incarnational Spirituality: An Introduction for SHCJ Associates” by SHCJ Associate Judith A. Talvacchia.

Among Us“Give me, O Lord, a love full of action!” –Cornelia Connelly

Take Time for Prayer!“It is precisely because you lead busy lives that

you must lead lives of prayer.” –Cornelia Connelly

Did you know that on our website you can find monthly meditations? These are two to five minute prayers with music and images. Take a few minutes to find God in the midst of your life. You can access

these monthly prayers from the homepage of our website at www.shcj.org/american. Just look for the

box that says “Monthly Meditation.”

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one of “the jewelry sisters” displays her work.

Barbara deConcini, an SHCJ Associate, and “the jewelry sisters” work on their creations.

The Sharon Reading Room in Cambodia: A Testament to A Legacy of Action

Have you ever ended up somewhere and wondered, “How did that happen?” Well, that’s precisely how JoAnn DiGeorgio-Lutz, Ph.D., an alumna of Sharon’s Class of 1971, felt. (Sharon is a school of the Sisters of

the Holy Child that was located in Sharon Hill, PA. The school closed in 1973.) A professor in the Department of Political Science at Texas A&M University-Commerce, JoAnn was teaching a course on comparative genocide when a student asked to focus on Cambodia. Although JoAnn’s specialty is the Middle East, she was intrigued by the request. And that request focused her academic concentration in a previously unexplored direction. As she puts it, “I didn’t find Cambodia, Cambodia found me.” She credits God with putting her on a path while she remained open to the experience and reacted to the journey as it unfolded.

Eventually, her desire to increase her knowledge about Cambodia led to a Fulbright Award and travels to the country with a group of her Texas A&M-Commerce students. She discovered that Cambodia, like many developing and war torn countries, faces problems related to poverty, human trafficking, and illiteracy. Introduced by a friend to a non-government organization (NGO) in Cambodia, Child Hope Organization (CHO), she was inspired by the work of this one-man operation dedicated to providing hope and opportunity to vulnerable and poor children in the city of Battambang.

As JoAnn’s understanding of the culture grew, experiences dating from her days at Sharon propelled her to action. Drawing on the Cornelian teaching of “step-by-step” and “line-by-line,” she began with small steps. During one visit, she and her students provided the children in CHO’s program with school supplies. Many of the children had never even used a crayon. Wanting to give more, she worked with CHO’s Director, Phong Socheath, and spearheaded a plan to create a library reading room filled with English books that would assist students struggling to master English.

JoAnn soon shared her plans with other Sharon alumnae, whom she called upon for support and who graciously responded. In fact, more than 1,000 books have been donated! As a result, JoAnn named the reading room The Sharon Reading Room. “The project has brought Sharon alumnae

JoAnn diGeorgio-Lutz, Ph.d. with the children of Children’s Hope organization.

The entrance to The Sharon Reading Room in Cambodia, named in honor of the Sharon Alumnae.

together and prompted us to act on the values that were part of our education at Sharon. I know I am the person I am today because of Sharon,” shares JoAnn.

JoAnn and her students from Texas A&M-Commerce arrived in Cambodia in May bearing boxes and boxes of books to fill the reading room! Although this initial stock of books jumpstarted the project, new or gently used children’s books in English (very basic) geared to children ages four to eight are still very much needed. The SHCJ have recently shipped 15 copies of the children’s book, A Generous Love, which tells the story of Cornelia Connelly’s life.

You can donate books by sending them to:

Dr. JoAnn DiGeorgio-Lutz Texas A&M University-Commerce Department of Political Science Ferguson Social Science Commerce, TX 75429

As many of these children’s parents are genocide survivors, JoAnn asks that the books not be scary.

A small placard dedicating the space as “The Sharon Reading Room” was installed in May during JoAnn’s trip to Cambodia. You can follow the progress of this project by joining The Sharon Reading Room’s Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/sharonreadingroom.

The children in Cambodia immediately began enjoying their new books!

Leighann Temple, a graduate student of JoAnn’s at Texas A&m university-Commerce, stocks the shelves

of the Sharon Reading Room in Cambodia.

Bringing Beads to the Batey

For the women of the Batey (pronounced Bah-tay) Lecheria in the Dominican Republic, life can be a never-ending cycle of caring for their children, washing, cleaning, and cooking—all without dependable electricity or plumbing.

These Haitians and Haitian Dominicans are the descendents of Haitian migrant field hands, long held in low-esteem by their neighbors.

Bateys were created in the 1930s when sugar was a profitable industry in the Dominican Republic. Cane cutters were needed to harvest the sugar crop and rudimentary company towns sprang up to house seasonal workers who arrived from Haiti to work the sugar harvest. Over time, some workers remained and put down roots in the Bateys. Because Haitian immigrants and their families have been denied citizenship and the sugar industry has dried up, residents of the Batey look for work wherever they can find it. These Bateys are now some of the poorest areas in the Dominican Republic, lacking infrastructure and educational and medical services.

An SHCJ-run Montessori school and medical clinic have served the families and individuals of the Batey Lecheria for more than a decade. Supporting the SHCJ in their work are many

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Our Common Thread

Whatever You Are Asking, the Answer is YES!“The invitation comes from God, and to him you must give your answer.” –Cornelia Connelly

“Since my early childhood, I have been aware of God calling me,” shares Caroline Conway, SHCJ (M. M. Caroline). “Before my first Holy Communion, I had a great longing to receive Jesus into my heart, and in fact, I resented all the “fuss” of white dresses, veils,

pictures, and processions—to me, those things were distractions from the great, loving mystery of being united with Jesus for the first time.”

Born and raised in Portland, OR, Sr. Caroline was taught by the Sisters of the Holy Child and shares that she admired them for their joy and simple way of life. The idea of a religious vocation came to mind during high school and college for Sr. Caroline, but she felt it was one of many options. A year after college, however, there came a turning point.

“I was teaching music to grade school children and I experienced a deep interior unrest, as though there were something more that I should be doing. One afternoon in early May, I paid a visit to our parish church. I remember walking with great purpose to the front of the church where I knelt and prayed, ‘Whatever you are asking, the answer is YES! Just show me what it is!’ Within a week, things began to become clear and the following September I was on my way to the Philadelphia area to enter with the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus. It had been a real struggle to leave a much-loved family and my friends, but I had the conviction that God was calling me to give myself in this way,” says Sr. Caroline.

Sr. Caroline entered the Society before Vatican II. During the early years of her journey, she led a well-ordered life of teaching and prayer in community. After Vatican II, dramatic changes occurred, characterized by less structure, broader choices, and increased freedom. Sr. Caroline began to explore options for meeting the wants of the age that went beyond the classroom. Although satisfied with her initial role as a teacher, she, with the blessing of the Society, considered less traditional ways of serving communities and continuing the Holy Child mission.

Caroline Conway, SHCJ (m. m. Caroline)

Kathy Cordes, SHCJ (Sr. Kathleen Ann) with Cheyenne Hall, a third grader at St. Therese’s School in Portland, oR. Cheyenne was Principal for the day.

lay volunteers. Among the volunteers are Greg and Cindy Platko from North Carolina.

Drawing on the desire to help others to find God in their daily lives, Greg and Cindy participated in a brief volunteer expedition to the Dominican Republic, and then decided to extend their stay for a year. Cindy and Greg were involved in a number of Batey projects, when Cindy, intent on developing a creative, fulfilling, and productive outlet for the women of the Batey, organized a beading class. She wanted to give these women a reason to rejoice in God’s presence. The class was an instant success. The group christened themselves “The Jewelry Sisters” to convey the camaraderie and connection they had formed around beads and beading. Cindy brought the women’s work back to the U.S. and began selling it to friends and colleagues.

And then Chapter Two of this story was written. Cindy crossed paths with Barbara DeConcini, an SHCJ Associate, as she displayed jewelry. A professor and administrator by training, one of Barbara’s ‘retirement follies’ is designing jewelry. Cindy suggested Barbara share her talents with the women of the Batey and help enhance their bead designing and stringing techniques. Barbara enlisted the assistance of her vendors and jewelry contacts and prepared herself for a trip to the Dominican Republic where she would teach a beading class. Packing beads, wires, clasps, and color wheels—and expecting 10 participants, Barbara was surprised to find more than 50 eager students. After a week of instruction, she returned home with 325 pieces of jewelry to market and sell.

And so, “Batey Beads by the Jewelry Sisters” was born! Cindy and Barbara have committed to visiting the Batey a couple of times a year to help the cottage industry gain momentum. In addition to a focus on beading, Cindy and Barbara are helping the women to develop the business skills critical to making their beading enterprise a success. All the money raised through the sale of the beads goes to support the women and children of the Batey and toward the development of their community.

Just as Cindy and Barbara are examples of God in Action, they invite you to continue this example by contacting Barbara for information about how you can join this project (i.e., hosting a house party or a school or church event) that offers purpose and hope to the women of the Batey.

All the proceeds of the sales are returned to the Batey. If you would like to introduce Batey Beads to a larger audience, please contact Barbara at bdeconc@emory.edu.

Experiencing a deep desire to work with the disadvantaged and trusting Cornelia Connelly’s words “in God you can do all things,” she accepted a position as Director of a Human Service Agency in Grand Junction, CO, where she worked with the homeless. After 10 years in that privileged ministry, she retired to become a spiritual director, assisting others to see how God works in their lives.

For Sr. Caroline, God is everywhere. “The catechism had taught us that God created all things and is present everywhere so I can meet the creative God in myself, in others, and in the beauty of nature and the arts, especially music and dance. I relish the majestic mountains, the vast blue Pacific, and I love the Creator of it all,” she says.

Growing up, Sr. Caroline recalls being intrigued by the religious picture of the ‘Agony in the Garden,’ in which an angel is offering Jesus comfort. “At that time, I knew the gospel story well and felt compassion for Jesus in his suffering. I deeply desired to be like that angel—to relieve suffering and never to cause it.” In looking at all those with whom she has worked and helped, Sr. Caroline has spent her entire life doing just that, while fulfilling God’s will for her.

Trusting Completely

“I think I had the first thoughts of being called to religious life when I was in fifth grade,” shares Kathy Cordes, SHCJ (Sr. Kathleen Ann), who was born and raised in Portland, OR and educated at St. Rose

School and Holy Child Academy. “I felt gentle nudges—the thought was always in the back of my mind. Each nudge made me wonder—each nudge made me pray to God for guidance. I would ask, ‘Do you want me to be a Sister? Help me to know what to do.’”

By 1965, upon graduating from high school, God instilled the courage within her to answer the call and Sr. Kathy knew what she wanted to do. She applied to the Society. “When I was accepted, I felt joy and peace. I was no longer restless—avoiding those gentle nudges and thoughts about being a Sister—I was at peace.”

Ironically, however, Sr. Kathy was not so sure about what she would be doing—teaching—as a Sister of the Holy Child. “At age 17, I wasn’t sure that I would be a good teacher, but I deeply wanted to be a Holy Child Sister. I didn’t have much choice. Being a Holy Child Sister meant being a teacher.”

It turns out Sr. Kathy is pretty good at teaching—and leading. Since becoming a Sister of the Holy Child, she has taught and held administrative positions at schools on the West and East Coasts for more than 40 years. In 1994, she became Principal of the only Catholic school in the city of Bend, OR, St. Francis of Assisi School. She was presented with quite a challenge. Enrollment was 180 students and the pastor, Father Evangelist Kelly, O.F.M Cap, told Sr. Kathy he was counting on her and her educational experience to increase enrollment or the parish would be forced to close the school. Sr. Kathy turned to God. “I felt empowered by Father Kelly’s confidence and trust in me. He saw my gifts and I prayed to God for the grace to use those gifts wisely.” Through prayer and action, Sr. Kathy was led to identify initiatives that increased enrollment from 180 to 350 students by 2003.

Today, Sr. Kathy is Principal of St. Therese School in Portland, OR, which educates more than 250 culturally diverse students from preschool through eighth grade. St. Therese is the only Catholic school in the eastern section of Portland. Neighboring parishes have closed their schools making St. Therese an even more important resource in this community. Sr. Kathy is committed to meeting the diverse needs of the students. “Every word or act I do affects the people I live and work with—morning prayer with the students, observing a teacher, talking with a parent—it all changes me and helps me to see God in action.”

Sr. Kathy has learned that to be at her best and available to the many individuals who are counting on her, she needs to devote the first 30 minutes of her day to prayer with God and the scriptures. “I know that God is in me and with me as He transforms my consciousness and actions. I truly believe that God has a dream for all of us—a plan that unfolds as we journey through life.”

.10 .112011 Golden Jubilariansby tese currie, ShcJ (M. M. aloysius)

in our last issue of Actions, we profiled 11 of the 19 Sisters of the holy child who are celebrating their Jubilees this year. We continue now with the profiles of our eight golden Jubilarians. each of these eight women has been a Sister of the holy child for 50 years. all told, this year’s Jubilarians have served for more than 1,000 years!

Elizabeth Clarke, SHCJ (M. Emmanuel Mary) born in boston and educated at the oak Knoll School of the holy child in Summit, nJ, Sr. elizabeth entered the Society after completing her freshman year at rosemont college. ill health necessitated her

leaving the novitiate at the beginning of her second year. however, after finishing her college education at newton college of the Sacred heart and with renewed health, she was able to re-enter the Society and be professed in 1961. She taught for 25 years in the new york area.

her father’s illness brought her back to new england in 1988, where she taught at the armenian Sisters’ academy in lexington, Ma. Sr. elizabeth was able to be with both her parents until their final days. after a sabbatical, Sr. elizabeth moved to rockport, Ma in 1999, where she has been volunteering in the health care ministry of her parish. looking back over these 50+ years, Sr. elizabeth says, “i feel doubly blessed and grateful to the Society for having been given a second chance.”

Joan Greany, SHCJ (M. Edmond Mary)Sr. Joan, born and educated in new york city, first met the holy child Sisters when she was a student at St. elizabeth’s School. She entered the Society in 1958 after her graduation from Sacred heart of Mary high

School. Professed in 1961, Sr. Joan taught in chicago for seven years then returned to the new york area where her ministry has been based ever since.

besides classroom teaching, parish ministry, high school counseling, and serving on boards of trustees for holy child Schools and Mt. carmel’s home for developmentally disabled adults, Sr. Joan served as Principal of St. elizabeth’s School and of Mount carmel grade School in Mount Vernon, ny. For 11 years, she was the new york archdiocesan coordinator of the “Writing to read Program.” during a sabbatical in 2000, she was able to explore her family roots in ireland. For the last 10 years, Sr. Joan’s dedication to education and her love for children have led her to volunteer as an afterschool tutor at abraham house.

Roseanne (Marcia) McDougall, SHCJ (M. M. Roseanne)in recent years, Sr. roseanne has shared her love of cornelia connelly by writing, publishing, and giving presentations on our Foundress. this has been the culmination of more than 50 years, beginning in 1958, when

she left a loving family in her native Portland to enter the Society at new Sharon in rosemont, Pa. the deep faith and enterprising spirit instilled by her parents have accompanied her through 26 years of classroom teaching at all levels and an additional 24 years in varied ministries. Sr. roseanne was a member of the Provincial council of the Western Province. (at one time,

the Society had three separate Provinces in the united States.) She was also a parish minister and campus minister in Portland. after completing her graduate studies at Fordham and columbia universities, Sr. roseanne served as assistant academic dean at rosemont college and taught at St. Joseph’s university before joining the religious Studies department at la Salle university 10 years ago. a deep thinker and quiet explorer, Sr. roseanne has been a lifelong learner. Whether it be kayaking, centering prayer, or the Spanish mystics, each new endeavor is pursued with thorough study and then is generously shared with others.

Mary Alice Minogue, SHCJ (M. Grace Mary)today, Sr. Mary alice is best known for her 15 years of ministry in the dominican republic where, despite many obstacles, she has initiated a Montessori program to help 250 young children learn basic skills. this school is a bright spot offering hope to all the haitians living in a depressed area outside of Santo domingo. Many of Sr. Mary alice’s life experiences seem to have prepared her for this challenging ministry: her having three younger sisters, her early education at St. ignatius in chicago, il where she first met holy child Sisters, her years of teaching in the Midwest, new york, Washington, dc, and Potomac, Md, and her master’s degree in pastoral counseling which she put to use at St. elizabeth’s college in convent Station, nJ and as director of the newark archdiocesan renewal Program. today, she continues to serve as an innovative, compassionate early childhood educator.

Michele Puma, SHCJ

(M. Marie Michele)Sr. Michele’s faith and worldview were nurtured at nativity, the Jesuit parish in new york city to which she belonged. as a student at hunter

college, she taught at their Mission center after school and was on the staff of their summer program. the director, Walter Janer, SJ, had been taught by the Sisters of the holy child at our lady of lourdes. he suggested that Sr. Michele become acquainted with them and soon after her graduation from hunter, Sr. Michele entered the Society of the holy child Jesus hoping to go to africa to teach. Professed in 1961, she found herself far from new york city. For six years, she taught at St. anastasia in Waukegan, il and for two years, she taught at holy child academy in Portland, or.

then came her long-desired assignment to africa where she would spend the next 12 years—teaching and administering in both ghana and nigeria. regarding this significant part of her life, she says, “i can never be grateful enough to our african Sisters and the african people for all they have given me.” returning home in 1981, Sr. Michele received a doctorate in education from columbia university and later taught there, as well as at barnard college and rosemont college. her comment on

these 50 years: “the Society has provided me with many enriching experiences and the opportunity to learn from and interact with people at home and abroad.”

Photo by Michael leSlie

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Cornelia’s Cause for Canonization

Cornelia Connelly, an earnest young wife and mother, felt blessed by God. She wanted to be close to God. In her Spiritual Notebook, written while living with her husband, Pierce, and the children in Grand Coteau,

LA, she penned these words:

It is for the glory of God that we should be saints. God wills what is for his glory. Therefore God wills us to be saints. God wills me to be a saint. I will to be a saint. Therefore I shall be a saint. CC21:23

She could not have foreseen that in 1958 the Society of the Holy Child Jesus would introduce the Cause for the Canonization of Cornelia Connelly to the Vatican’s Congregation for the Causes of Saints. More than three decades of unrelenting investigation, compilation, and editing resulted in the presentation of two official documents called the Positio and Informatio to theologians responsible for evaluating her holiness of life. These documents, written by Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus, give detailed accounts of Cornelia’s life. Their acceptance and approval resulted in the declaration that Cornelia Connelly is indeed Venerable. Her desire for sainthood passed another hurdle.

Canonization in the Roman Catholic Church consists of a four-part process. An individual is declared a Servant of God, Venerable, Blessed, and finally Saint. The process requires extensive proof that the person proposed for canonization lived and died in such an exemplary and holy way that she or he is worthy of being called saint. Once declared a saint, Cornelia Connelly could be publicly invoked and mentioned officially in the liturgy of the Church, including the Litany of the Saints.

Your Help is Needed NowIn this ongoing process, Cornelia needs to be more widely known. We ask you to share her story with as many people as possible. Urge others to pray through her intercession for favors from God. Miracles will pass her through the declaration of blessed and sainthood. BUT no request is too small, nor too great. Should you experience a favor when praying to God through Cornelia’s intercession, please contact Carlotta Bartone, SHCJ at cbartone@shcj.org or 610.626.1400.

The SHCJ will soon produce a bulletin that will give an account of favors requested, favors received, possible cures, and items of interest in connection with Cornelia’s life. At the same time, cards and pamphlets in a variety of languages will be available. Do join in praying for the eventual canonization of Cornelia Connelly.

Margaret (Peg) Scholle, SHCJ (M. M. Marina)For five decades, Sr. Peg has quietly served in a variety of ministries. She met holy child Sisters

during her four years at St. ignatius’ School in chicago, il. after graduating from St. Scholastica academy in chicago, she entered the Society. She taught for eight years at St. anastasia’s School in Waukegan, il and at St. Patrick’s School in Wadsworth, il. She also served as Principal at our lady of humility School in zion, il and St. elizabeth’s School in new york city. after a sabbatical in rome, her ministry took her to the West coast of the u.S. where she was director of the School connected with the program known as Meeting each need with dignity (Mend) in Pacoima, ca. She also served as area Superior and assistant Vocation director for the ShcJ. in 1990, she moved to Washington, dc to assume responsibilities as novice director for the Society’s american Province.

She remained in dc and earned her master’s degree in theology, all the while serving as a lobbyist and staff member of catholic charities. For the past 10 years, Sr. Peg has been based in gurnee, il.

Marcia Sichol, SHCJ (M. M. Marcia)Sr. Marcia brought a happy disposition with her when she entered the Society after her graduation from the School of the holy child in Suffern, ny. gradually, her many gifts emerged. From elementary school teaching, she became Principal of holy child Schools in rosemont, Pa and drexel hill, Pa. She served as assistant dean at rosemont college before undertaking graduate studies. With her doctorate in philosophy from georgetown university, Sr. Marcia was appointed assistant Professor at xavier university in cincinnati, oh, and then at neumann college in aston, Pa.

She was then called to Province ministry, serving as director of Planning and as a member of the Provincial council. From 1996 until 1999, she served as executive director of the conrad n. hilton Fund for Sisters before being named leader of the Society’s american Province. after her term, she returned to the hilton Fund as consultant, while also serving as Society treasurer and communications director for the Sisters of the holy child. Just recently, she was again appointed to head the conrad n. hilton Fund for Sisters.

Claire Smith, SHCJ (M. John of the Cross)an educator with many practical skills, Sr. claire entered the Society after graduating from West catholic high School in 1958. She taught at annunciation School in Washington, dc and holy child academy in drexel hill, Pa, as well as serving as Principal of holy Spirit School in Sharon hill, Pa. after a sabbatical in rome, Sr. claire returned to holy child academy in drexel hill, Pa where she was Principal for five years.

after 25 years of teaching, Sr. claire ventured into new ministries: business Manager at School of

the holy child in rye, ny and later, hospital chaplain and case worker for catholic charities in Washington, dc. in 1990, she was named administrator at new Sharon, where many of the holy child Sisters live. her practicality and kind manner had full scope for six years. She returned to education as Principal of annunciation School in Washington, dc and later served for a number of years in the education department of rosemont college. today, as the coordinator of the american Province’s three seashore houses, Sr. claire continues to minister with quiet efficiency and gracious hospitality.

Prayer to Obtain the Beatification of Venerable Cornelia ConnellyO God, who chose Cornelia Connelly to found the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, inspiring her to follow the path marked out by your divine son, obedient from the crib to the cross, let us share her faith, her obedience and her unconditional trust in the power of your love. Grant us the favor we now implore through her intercession . . . and be pleased to glorify, even on earth, your faithful servant, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

Portrait by ellen cooPer © 2007

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With close to 250 people in attendance, the Overbrook Golf Club in Villanova, PA provided the setting for the Third Annual Holy Child Awards Dinner on March 31, 2011. Friends, family, and supporters gathered to pay tribute to Anne Healy Ayella,

Sharon ‘72 and Robert A. Pollock, the 2011 honorees.

The evening began with a “journey” that spotlighted the accomplishments of those served by the SHCJ schools and ministries. Inspirational stories were featured on illustrated posters positioned throughout the reception rooms. From the plight of Luis who was granted asylum through the efforts of the Casa Cornelia Law Center, to the maturation of Stephanie, who danced her way from The Washington Middle School for Girls in the inner city of DC to a Midwest liberal arts college, there were many uplifting accounts.

Helen McDonald, SHCJ (Sr. Vincent dePaul) Leader of the Society’s American Province at the time, thanked the many members of the laity who have partnered with the Sisters of the Holy Child, stating, “Our Foundress, Cornelia Connelly, exhorted us to ‘meet the wants of the age.’ In a world whose needs have grown so large and so complex, this can be a daunting challenge for a Society as small as ours. However, thanks to the support and participation of the laity, the Society continues to address critical needs and have a powerful impact across the country and around the globe.”

A tender video presentation introduced the Holy Child schools and ministries in the Philadelphia area and profiled students and individuals who have benefited from these programs. You can still see this video by visiting http://bit.ly/jWRvGg.

Faith in Action HonoreeFaith in Action Honoree Robert A. Pollock was introduced by Nancy Hagenbach, SHCJ (M. Agnes Mary) and Ruth Dawley, SHCJ (Sr. Mary Kostka). Mr. Pollock has spent decades serving his community, volunteering with organizations such as the American Red Cross, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and the SHCJ. Mr. Pollock’s daughters were enrolled at the Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child in Summit, NJ, where he served on the School’s Board of Directors and chaired the Board for four years.

Holy Child Spirit HonoreeAnita Quigley, SHCJ and Cathi Duffy, Director of the SHCJ Associates, introduced Holy Child Spirit Honoree Anne Healy Ayella. Mrs. Ayella is an alumna of the former Holy Child Academy in Sharon Hill, PA. For more than 30 years, she has worked in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Office of Nutritional Development Services. Mrs. Ayella travels throughout the Archdiocese advocating for the needy in parishes and schools. She is the Diocesan Director for Catholic Relief Services and is active in the Greater Philadelphia Coalition Against Hunger.

Both Mr. Pollock and Mrs. Ayella, like so many, are integral to advancing the mission of the SHCJ by sharing their God-given gifts and talents.

The Fourth Annual Holy Child Awards Dinner will be held at Bridgewaters in New York City on Thursday, March 29, 2012. Mark your calendars now!

2011 Holy Child Awards Dinner Sponsors

Special thanks to the many individuals and businesses who supported the 2011 Holy Child Awards! Your support of the SHCJ is beyond measure.

SILVER SPONSORS

Connelly Foundation

C.S. McKee, L.P.

BRONzE SPONSORS

Payden & Rygel

Penn Liberty Bank

The Secretariat for Catholic Human Services/Nutritional Development Services

The W/B Group at MorganStanleySmithBarney

TABLE PATRON SPONSORS

Sandy & Dan Bane

The Buckley & O’Donoghue Families

Delaware Valley Packaging Group

Eagle Capital Management

Hope Partnership for Education

Kershner Office Furniture

Mr. & Mrs. Charles G. Roach

Madeline Sherry & Frank Devine

2011 Holy CHil d AwA r ds din ner:

Robert A. Pollock, the 2011 Faith in Action Honoree, with his grandchildren: (l to r) Calvin, Charlie, madeleine, and Claire.

Stories of those served by Holy Child schools and ministries were featured on illustrated posters.

Teen mentors in the afterschool program of Providence Center, Crystal martinez (at microphone) and Amanda Capra, delivered the evening’s invocation.

Nancy Hagenbach, SHCJ (m. Agnes mary) introduces Robert A. Pollock, 2011 Faith in Action Honoree.

Ruth dawley, SHCJ (Sr. mary Kostka) presents Robert A. Pollock with the 2011 Faith in Action Award.

Anita Quigley, SHCJ, introduces Anne Healy Ayella, 2011 Holy Child Spirit Honoree.PhotograPhy by Michael leSlie

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AlumsHoly Child Education Since 1862, the Holy Child Sisters have founded and/or taught at more than 50 parochial, diocesan, and independent schools in the U.S. While many of these schools continue to educate thousands of children every year, some have closed. All those who were taught by the Holy Child Sisters—regardless of the type of school or whether the school is opened or closed—are an integral and much-valued part of our Holy Child family. Here, we joyfully share alum reunions and news from those who were educated by the Holy Child Sisters.

reunionDid You Have A Class Reunion?If so, let us know so that we can feature you in Actions! Send the details (who, what, where, when) and a few photos with captions to Michael Paolucci, Development Coordinator, at mpaolucci@shcj.org or 1341 Montgomery Avenue, Rosemont, PA 19010.

Anny Healy Ayella surrounded by many of her classmates from her days at Sharon.

Cathi duffy, director of the SHCJ Associates, presents Anne Healy Ayella with the 2011 Holy Child Spirit Award.

The Healy Family: (seated) John Healy, Sr., Anne’s father, and the Healy children: (standing l to r) Bill Healy, Kate Healy Willcox, Anne Healy Ayella, and John Healy, Jr.

HolY CHIlD MINISTRIES

The Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus serve in education, health care, law, parish administration, pastoral care, social work, and spiritual direction. In addition, the Society of the Holy Child Jesus has founded and sponsors the ministries below. Proceeds from the Awards Dinner benefit these ministries of the SHCJ.

HolY CHIlD NETwoRk oF SCHoolS

Connelly School of the Holy Child (Potomac, MD) Cornelia Connelly Center (New York, NY) Cornelia Connelly School (Anaheim, CA) Holy Child Academy (Drexel Hill, PA) Holy Child Academy (old westbury, NY) Mayfield Junior School of the Holy Child (Pasadena, CA) Mayfield Senior School of the Holy Child (Pasadena, CA) oak knoll School of the Holy Child (Summit, NJ) Rosemont School of the Holy Child (Rosemont, PA) School of the Holy Child (Rye, NY)

HIGHER EDuCATIoN

Rosemont College (Rosemont, PA)

CollAboRATIvE EDuCATIoNAl MINISTRIES

Cristo Rey New York High School (New York, NY) Hope Partnership for Education (Philadelphia, PA) St. Martin de Porres High School (waukegan, Il) The washington Middle School for Girls (washington, DC)

SPoNSoRED MINISTRIES

African Sisters Education Collaborative (Philadelphia, PA) Casa Cornelia law Center (San Diego, CA) Centro Cornelia Connelly (Santiago, Chile) Fe y Alegría (Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic) Providence Center (Philadelphia, PA) South Central los Angeles Ministry Project (los Angeles, CA)

Class of 1951 | 60th ReunionIn June, we gathered at the Country Squire Restaurant in Grayslake, IL to celebrate our reunion. Displayed at the reunion were photos of each of us from our 1951 Acorn yearbook! Other photos depicted various activities and events which reminded us of the many wonderful experiences from our years at Holy Child. We welcomed Theresa Jachim VanderVere, who lives in North Carolina, Theresa’s sister, Dolores Jachim Sherony, Class of 1948, and Joanne Wegener, SHCJ (M. M. Julia) from Milton, WI.

After a prayer of gratitude for our many blessings, we remembered those who were unable to be with us, as well as family and friends who have health concerns. Classmates from the area gather each month at various restaurants to visit with one another. Through the past 10-plus years, we have become dear, close friends who look forward to being together. Everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch and a relaxing afternoon. Plans were made for our next monthly gathering. A few photos were taken and fond farewells were exchanged until we next meet. –Margaret Jean Serdar Zanco

(seated) dolores Jachim Sherony, a member of Waukegan’s Class of 1948 and the sister of Theresa VanderVere. members of Holy Child High School’s Class of 1951: (front row l to r) Charlene Cooper Hendrickson (in purple), Pat Willems Welsch, margaret Jean Serdar Zanco, Kathleen Sponenburg Christenson, Theresa Jachim VanderVere, (back row l to r) Evelyn drury Hill, Joanne Wegener, SHCJ (m. m. Julia), Aldona Kuzinskas Wright, Theresa Tstinic Butkus, Joan Tessman Clavey.

Class of 1960 | 50th ReunionIn September 2010, we celebrated our reunion at the Waukegan Yacht Club. Approximately 30 “girls” attended, coming from all over, including California, Florida, Virginia, and New Mexico. It was a wonderful afternoon filled with precious memories and laughter. Everyone had a fantastic time and promised to keep in touch with one another. –Vivian Salata Steffens

The Class of 1960 from Holy Child High School, Waukegan: (first row l to r) donna Lapapa Levandoski, Barbara Zannini Pelfrey, Vivian Salata Steffens, Barbara margoian dolan, mary meyer Larsen, mary Cretan, Sr. Kathleen Hayes, oP, Anita ori, (second row l to r) Judy Zupec Pawlak, Joan Pochila Kukla, mary daluga Buckley, donna Cossman Hoselton, mary Patterson Cook, (third row l to r) Judith Granna unitt, martha Bergan o’Halloran, Sharon Growney Alcott, Theresa Walczak mcdermid, Jo Anne miks Pekkarinen, Karen myers Skarbalus, Virginia Phillips Edmund, Lucille Hebior Clark, Judith Hubert Skoff, Rita dietz White, Ann Wrona Holtman, Carol Nemzick Burba, Joanne Pyktel Christensen, Susan Hoffman mayfield, Louise dietz Schmidt, Sheila Prindiville, Patricia Sorrentino menefee.

Holy Child High School, waukegan Waukegan, IL

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SlA Spring luncheon | All Class ReunionIn March, more than 70 alums of St. Leonard’s Academy and several Holy Child Sisters gathered for our annual spring luncheon at the Springfield Country Club in Springfield, PA. St. Leonard’s Board Member Cathy Glatts ’73 and Treasurer Connie Hamilton ’71 welcomed everyone. Mary Bryan, SHCJ (M. M. Cleophas) said grace before the meal. Cathi Duffy, Director of the SHCJ Associates, spoke about the importance of the Associates and their collaboration with the SHCJ. Several alums from St. Leonard’s Academy have become Associates and shared how it has affected their lives. As the luncheon came to a close, alums received an SLA Alumnae T-shirt and went home excited for next year’s luncheon.

Class of 1961 | 50th ReunionFifteen of our 20 classmates gathered at the SHCJ summer house in Sea Isle City, NJ this past May. We shared a catered luncheon and a delicious dessert of miniature cheesecakes baked by a talented classmate. While several of us have been getting together at the shore for about the last 10 years, we were happy to reconnect with some classmates whom we had not seen for many years. We shared stories of our lives, laughed a lot, and raised a toast for a deceased classmate. We all agreed that our time at St. Leonard’s was special—not just for the wonderful education we received, but also for the values we learned at SLA that have carried us through our lives. –Regina Mulholland Bonney

Class of 1971 | 40th ReunionThis past April, we gathered for dinner at Ristorante La Buca in Philadelphia, PA to celebrate our reunion. Upon entering the dining room, we saw our senior portraits arranged on a shelf, immediately stirring memories of our wonderful times at SLA! We will be thankful, always, for the critical years we spent together learning two Spanish dialects, French from a record player, a little math and science here and there, odd physical education made more odd if one was “regular” or not, and navigating those sensitive high school years in a way that developed all the social skills and life wisdom we wield now! See you in another 10! –Kathy Go & Theresa Sheridan

St. leonard’s Academy Philadelphia, PA

Class of 1965 | 45th ReunionIn October 2010, 33 members of our class reunited to celebrate 45 years since graduating! We gathered at the Concordville Inn in Concordville, PA. Lauri Meiser Brochu brought our graduation picture, and it was fun to see how hairstyles have changed! Everyone enjoyed the food and drinks, but the best part of the day was just getting together to remember all the great times that were enjoyed during our days at Sharon. Plans are currently in the works for a celebration of 50 years to be held in 2015. –Sylvia Merante

members of Sharon’s Class of 1965 hold their Senior Class picture during their 45th Reunion.

members of Sharon’s Class of 1970 celebrate their 40th Reunion.

Class of 1970 | 40th ReunionMore than 25 alums gathered in November 2010 at The Concordville Inn in Concordville, PA. As a special surprise, Mary Ann (Mimi) Comfort flew in from California to join the celebration. Her guest, who was the only man in attendance, was put in charge of taking pictures! Everyone had a wonderful time and we hope to see each other more often.

members of St. Leonard’s Academy Class of 1971.

members of SLA’s Class of 1961 display the SLA Alum T-shirts they received at their 50th Reunion: (front row l to r) margaret Johnson Hobler, Elaine madonna Curran, Patricia owens Lafferty, Regina mulholland Bonney, Nancy mcCloskey, Philomena Lepre Kramer, Joanne mcCann Cirone, Gloria Rodgers Kesselring, mary momberg dahms, maureen o’donnell deLeon, Joan Carol Bove Chalmers, Rita Bruno Klinger, (back row l to r) Joan Hatch Sandell, Carol Connor Walsh, Winifred Reaney yori.

Holy Child Academy, Sharon Hill Sharon Hill, PA

mary Bryan, SHCJ (m. m. Cleophas), a 1948 graduate of SLA, and Nancy Hagenbach, SHCJ (m. Agnes mary), a 1952 graduate of SLA, at the SLA All Class Reunion.

In the spring of 1941, Mother Mary Katherine, a Sister of the Holy Child Jesus, arranged for me to take an entrance examination for my “First Senior” year (freshman) at Holy Child Academy (HCA) in Portland, OR. The exams were offered to all eighth-grade girls graduating from Catholic schools in Portland. I, however, was a graduate of a Portland public school, having transferred from a Catholic school in the fifth grade. To my surprise, I was awarded a partial scholarship to the Academy. I enrolled and graduated in a class of 15 girls four years later.

Fast forward to 1994: Approximately 49 years after I graduated, acting on an impulse, I invited my 91-year-old mother to stroll the grounds of my alma mater with me. The Academy had closed its doors in 1973 and extensive remodeling was underway. As we strolled along, I was startled to glance down and see propped against the wall of the school building, the concrete stone carved with the emblem letters SHC, the initials for Society of the Holy Child. This stone was a familiar landmark from my Holy Child days, having been in a prominent place on the corner of the tall, curving wall surrounding the school property. I realized that some unknown construction worker must have recognized the historical value of the stone, and cared enough to save it.

The current owners of the property allowed me to retrieve the stone. For some time, I enjoyed having it in my backyard. In 1995, I brought it to my 50th Class Reunion. A few years later, I passed it along to Rita Wisner Campbell, also a Holy Child alumna. When Rita died last year, I retrieved the stone and shipped it to Helena Mayer, SHCJ (M. M. Kilian), the Archivist for the Society of the Holy Child Jesus – American Province, who displayed it prominently in the Archives Building. So now, by a wandering route and what may be mere chance, the HCA emblem is “home.”

Coming Full Circle: The Story of A Stone By Carolyn Breen Kolibaba, Holy Child Academy, Portland Class of 1945

members of the Class of 1945 from Holy Child Academy, Portland display the rediscovered stone emblem from their school: (front row l to r) Wilma Roth Tierney, maryella Velguth Tierney, Carolyn Breen Kolibaba, Harriette Burke Benton, (back row l to r) Ronie Sears Allen, Prudence mcCroskey Twohy, Frances Roos Groshong, Clara Wanner Lacy, mary margaret dundore.

School of the Holy Child, Senior School Rosemont, PA

Class of 1970 | 40th ReunionA brunch was held in November 2010 to celebrate our reunion at the home of Madeline Sherry in Ardmore, PA. We gathered and remembered the fun times we had during our school days. It was such a special evening that we decided to meet on a regular basis, not wanting to wait another five years

for a reunion. So, this past January and April, a few classmates enjoyed each other’s company during dinner. Plans for the next get-together are already underway, with hopes to attract more classmates and make more memories. –Madeline Sherry

members of Rosemont Senior School’s Class of 1970: (l to r) Paula Iacovelli Wholey, madeline Sherry, Amy Walters Lawlor, mary mcNichol, Lottie Gallagher Adams, Bernice Graeter-Reardon, Nancy oeste mcGivney.

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SHCJ NewsBravo!

We Remember

Celebrating the Living Legacy of Response-AbilityBy Michael Mannix, RA Volunteer

Response-Ability (RA), a ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Child Jesus (SHCJ), hosted a celebration in Rosemont, PA on May 15 to honor many of those who have made the program possible for more than 20 years. Sadly, Response-Ability closed its doors in the U.S. in June due to the economic

downturn and increases in living costs. Current and past volunteers, sponsors, classroom coaches, Sisters of the Holy

Child, family members, and even a museum curator were all present at the numerous events of the day. The event, known affectionately as the “CelebRAtion,” began at Mass with reverence and ended on the dance floor in revelry. In between, Liz Martino, RA’s Executive Director, honored many with awards and RA keepsakes.

Also during the celebration, the Archives of the Society’s American Province opened an exhibition dedicated to RA. The day was a fitting recognition of the legacy of Response-Ability, a ministry which has served students in Los Angeles, CA; Philadelphia, PA; Washington, DC; and at the Society’s mission site in the Dominican Republic for many years and inspired hundreds of teachers. Thanks to RA, countless individuals have continued the educational traditions of Cornelia Connelly and are ensuring that her legacy is passed on to future generations.

The SHCJ are thankful that they will be able to continue to have lay volunteers at their mission site in the Dominican Republic.

(l to r) Cassie mcLaughlin and Liz mcCluskey both served as RA Teachers in Philadelphia.

“To teach in the SHCJ school in the Dominican Republic was to see God’s grace at work, and looking into dark faces, I looked into the face of God. It was the place where I literally hugged God, sat God on my lap, and read to God. It was where God squeezed my hand, kissed my cheek, and beamed his or her smile at me.”

–Catie McElwee, RA Volunteer at the Society’s mission site in the Dominican Republic

Kathleen Walsh, SHCJ (M. M. Macrina)September 9, 1927 - February 5, 2011

Sr. Kathleen was born and educated in Philadelphia. After graduating from West Catholic High School for Girls in 1944, she entered the Society of the Holy Child Jesus at Sharon Hill–the youngest of her set (those with whom she entered the Convent).

Sr. Kathleen taught for more than 25 years at several schools including St. Elizabeth’s, New York, NY; St. Mary’s, Melrose, MA; St. Anastasia’s, Waukegan, IL; St. Lucy’s, Philadelphia, PA; Holy Child Academy, Drexel Hill, PA; and Holy Spirit, Sharon Hill,

PA. In 1974, her ministry reached beyond the classroom to social security work at New Sharon. She also served as the Assistant Director of the Teacher Center at St. Gabriel’s in Philadelphia, PA and as Business Assistant at Rosemont College in Rosemont, PA. For 17 years, she served at Villanova University’s School of Nursing in their Media Center and for 10 years as Office Assistant.

Sr. Kathleen held a bachelor’s degree in education, as well as two master’s degrees—one in theology and one in philosophy. All three degrees were earned from Villanova University.

(l to r) Brigid Barry, michael mannix, and Heather Stewart have all served as RA Volunteer Teachers.

(l to r) Jesus and Katie Vasquez. Katie served as an RA Volunteer in

Philadelphia.

barbara bartlett, SHCJ (M. Donald Mary) was awarded a master’s degree in theological studies at the 42nd graduation of the Washington Theological Union (WTU) in May. In their brochure, the WTU singled out Sr. Barbara as a student who is using her education to serve others.

Carroll Juliano, SHCJ (Sr. Dismas Mary) co-authored Principled Ministry: A Guidebook for Catholic Church Leaders with Loughlan Sofield, S.T. The book was released in March by Ave Maria Press. Even though this is Sr. Carroll’s sixth book, she shared that “it is still exciting to have a new book published.”

Polly McShain, SHCJ (M. John Mary) will be honored for her lifetime of dedicated work by the Catholic Leadership Institute (www.CatholicLeaders.org) on November 11, 2011. Based in Wayne, PA, the Institute affords leadership training to lay and religious throughout the U.S. Sr. Polly is being recognized along with Cardinal Sean O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston; Thomas Monaghan, Founder of Legatus and Ave Maria University; and Terry Polakovic, Co-founder, Executive Director, and Chief Editor of ENDOW. Sr. Polly says, “I accept this honor in the name of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus, founded by Cornelia Connelly, a remarkable wife, mother, and religious. For more than 165 years, her Society has ministered to the people of four continents with the qualities she valued: simplicity, charity, obedience, and joy – all exemplified in the humble and hidden life of the Holy Child Jesus.”

The SHCJ EcoSpirituality Group sponsored a memorial garden in remembrance of Aquilla Peterson, SHCJ, who died in December 2010. Inspired by Terri MacKenzie, SHCJ (M. Ellen Mary), who coordinates the group, the garden surrounds the statue of St. Francis of Assisi at Holy Child Center in Rosemont, PA and is clearly viewed from the dining room. Mary Bryan, SHCJ (M. M. Cleophas) arranged the plantings. A plaque in this lovely spot reads:

In Loving Memory of Aquilla Peterson, SHCJ 1949-2010

Daughter of Cornelia Friend of Francis Lover of Earth

With Gratitude from the SHCJ EcoSpirituality Group

barbara bartlett, SHCJ Carroll Juliano, SHCJ Polly McShain, SHCJ

“I smile everyday that I go to work. Whether it is a joke told by an eighth-grader, a witty comment in a seventh-grader’s paper, or a smile on the face of a sixth-grader speaking Spanish for the first time, the girls I teach at The Washington Middle School for Girls never cease to amaze me.”

–Maureen Heard, who served as an RA Volunteer Teacher and is now Head of School at The Washington Middle School for Girls

1341 Montgomery avenue | rosemont, Pa 19010

Have you moved or changed your e-mail address? Please send your updated information to actions@shcj.org.

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because the Society is committed to caring responsibly for the environment, Actions is printed on 55% recycled paper with 30% post-consumer fiber.

order Your Special occasion Prayer Cardsthe Society’s prayer cards provide the perfect way to let someone know that the Sisters of the holy child are offering their prayers. one card offers prayers of comfort and peace on the loss of a loved one. another expresses love and joy to someone celebrating a special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary, or religious holiday.

in their ministry of prayer, the Sisters of the holy child residing at holy child center, as well as in the Society’s assisted living communities in new york and Pennsylvania, receive all prayer card requests and find great joy in knowing that their prayers are a source of love, peace, and comfort.

alums and friends of the Society using the prayer cards have also included donations to the Society when they request their intentions. the Sisters of the holy child are most grateful for your generosity.

remembrance and general intention prayer cards can be requested on our website at http://bit.lylqpJxl9 or by calling 610.626.1400.

g Rosemont Senior School All Class Luncheon | September 24, 2011 come back to the gym-site of proms, plays, pep-rallies, basketball games, and graduations. Join us from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for fun, friends, food, and shared memories. For more information, please contact anne (baba) galbally Kelly ’71 at annegkelly@aol.com or 610.458.8840.

g Holy Child Academy, Sharon Class of 1956 | September 25, 2011Sharon’s class of 1956 will celebrate its 55th reunion at the golden inn hotel in avalon, nJ. For more information, please contact teresa greco Watton at teresa.watton@gmail.com.

g St. Leonard’s by the Sea | october 1, 2011all St. leonard’s alums are invited to a day at the ShcJ beach house in Stone harbor, nJ. the cost for lunch is $20. Please rSVP by September 23 to cathy glatts at cglatts@mercyvhs.org.

g Sharon at the Shore | october 2, 2011Sharon alums are invited to the ShcJ beach house in Stone harbor, nJ. boxed lunches are $15 per person. For more information, please contact Sylvia regotti Merante at sylviamerante@verizon.net or Pat Mcgowan McKittrick at pjmtjm@netzero.net.

g Holy Child Academy, Sharon All Class Luncheon | october 16, 2011 all Sharon alums are invited to attend the all class luncheon at the Springfield country club located on Sproul road in Springfield, Pa. For more information, contact Sylvia Merante at sylviamerante@verizon.net.

g Trinity of Appreciation | october 23, 2011in appreciation of those who give their time, talent, and treasure to the Society of the holy child, we are hosting the 2011 appreciation Mass & reception in three different locations: oregon, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, so we can thank and recognize as many individuals as possible.

g St. Leonard’s All School Luncheon | march 10, 2012our annual spring luncheon will be held at the Springfield country club in Springfield, Pa. More details will be made available at a later date. For more information, contact connie hamilton at connie_hamilton@verizon.net.

g Fourth Annual Holy Child Awards dinner | march 29, 2012the Fourth annual holy child awards dinner will be held at bridgewaters in new york, ny. Stay tuned for details!

g SHCJ Associates National Gathering: Actions Not Words | June 22-24, 2012Plan on joining ShcJ associates as we explore how we embody actions not Words in our daily lives. More details on the weekend program, which will be held in rosemont, Pa, will be made available in the coming months. to be added to the mailing list for the gathering, contact cathi duffy, director of ShcJ associates, at cduffy@shcj.org or 610.626.1400, x310.

Upcoming Reunions & Events