UrsulinesSummer 2011

Vol. 10, No. 1

www.ursulinesmsj.org

Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint JosephFreeing and Nurturing Women and Children

Many Sisters Serve in Parishes

Villa Activities

2011 Jubilarians

New Ministries

Religious EducationHospitality

Faith Outreach

Our MissiOn

We, the ursuline sisters of Mount saint Joseph,

sustained by prayer and vowed life in community,

proclaim Jesus through education and Christian formation

in the spirit of our founder, saint Angela Merici.

Our PurPOsEFreeing and Nurturing

Women and Children

Our COrE VALuEsPrayerserviceEmpowermentJusticeContemplative Presence

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COntACt usursuline sisters of Mount saint Joseph

8001 Cummings road Maple Mount, Kentucky 42356

270-229-4103Fax: 270-229-4953

info.msj@maplemount.orgwww.ursulinesmsj.orgFollow us on Facebook:

www.facebook.com/ursulinesmsj

Dear Friends, In July, we Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph gather at “the Mount” for some shared time in what we now call Community Days. We gather from the varied dioceses where we serve, to support and embrace one another in prayer and sharing. Saint Angela reminds us: “You must take care to bring your daughters together from time to time wherever it seems best and most convenient to you ... In this way, they will meet together as loving sisters, talking over spiritual things ... thus giving joy and encouragement to each other, and this will benefit them greatly.” And, as I’m sure Saint Angela anticipated, the very air hummed with the energy and power of these almost 160 women of prayer and faith gathered in community. I know that Friday of that week saw fireworks in nearby Owensboro, Ky. I’m surprised the crowds didn’t show up at Mount Saint Joseph by mistake; the energy and joyful excitement rivaled any Fourth of July display. Then on Saturday we celebrated our Jubilarians, recognizing 11 sisters for 40, 50, 60, and 70 years of faithful service. That’s 600 years of dedicated ministry! Think of it – 600 years of teaching, spiritual guidance, prayerful support, working with God’s people. Imagine the thousands of souls these 11 sisters have touched in at least seven states plus Jamaica. It does boggle the mind. You can read about them in this issue of Ursulines Alive. My, aren’t we so very much alive! In this issue you will also share the energy of sisters active in parish ministries, working with people of all ages, backgrounds, and stages of their faith journeys. What challenging and invigorating work, and what incredible opportunities to share prayer in support, and be supported by that same prayer. Reflect, too, as you share in the lives of our sisters who have reached the pinnacle of their prayer ministries, with their special wisdoms and insights earned through the service of suffering and aging. Within this issue, we explore the different activities we share with our sisters who live in Saint Joseph Villa. Our prayer is that, as you turn the corner of the season of summer and begin your walk to autumn, that you will carry with you the harvest of the joys and celebrations you experienced this summer. If you receive just a tenth of what we shared this summer, you will be rich indeed. Sr. Sharon Sullivan, OSU

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U r s u l i n e s A L I V E

From our Congregational Leader

...in the spirit of saint Angela Merici

Sister Sharon

Ursulines Alive is published by the ursuline sisters of Mount saint Joseph, Maple Mount, Ky. three issues are published each calendar year.

EDitOrs: Director of Mission Advancement/Communications ........Dan Heckel, OSUA Communications Specialist/Graphic Design ......................Jennifer KaminskiMissiOn ADVAnCEMEnt stAFF: Director of Development ...................................................Sister Amelia Stenger Director of Mission Effectiveness ......................................Sister Rose Marita O’Bryan Coordinator of Ursuline Partnerships ...............................Marian Bennett, OSUA Coordinator of Spiritual Formation for Partnerships .......Sister Mary Sheila Higdon Administrative Specialist/Web Development ...................Tiffany Orth

COVEr: Background: Immaculate Parish, Owensboro, Ky. The Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph have been ministering at Immaculate as teachers in its parish school (1954-1988) or in parish, pastoral, or religious education roles (1985-88, 1990-present) for over 56 years. (1) Breakfast is often served

after Mass on Wednesday mornings at the Johnson sisters’ house in Greenville, Ky. From left: Laura Smith, Sister Rose Theresa Johnson, Sister Rose Karen Johnson, Linda Wells and Queenie Smith. (�) Sister Karla Kaelin helps children in the craft room at Vacation Bible School at St. Mary of the Woods

Parish in Whitesville, Ky., in June. (3) Sister Margaret Ann Aull brings Communion to Wanda Powers at Hillcrest Health Care Center in Owensboro, Ky. Powers is a member of Immaculate in Owensboro, where Sister Margaret Ann ministers in pastoral care.

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In this issueMore Ursuline Sisters Serve in Parishes than any Other Ministry .....................3

Saint Joseph Villa Activities .................6Retired Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph are inspired to stay active, involved

�011 Jubilarian Biographies ................8 Not Really Retired ................................9

New Ministries and Retirements .......10

Conference and Retreat Center .......1�

Obituaries ...........................................15

Soli Deo Gloria ...................................16We rejoice in the gifts of our sisters, given for the kingdom of God

Continued on page 4

Robin Beatty has been a lifelong parishioner at St. Mary of the Woods Parish in Whitesville, Ky., and for the past three years has worked with Ursuline

Sister Karla Kaelin on the parish’s Vacation Bible School.

“She gives it her all. I love having a sister here,” Beatty said. “I had (sisters) when I was in school teaching me. This is a good example. We don’t see sisters as often as we should, like when we were kids.”

Those sentiments are echoed wherever Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph serve in parish ministry. There are more sisters serving in parish ministry (20) than there are sisters in the classroom or leading schools. While many people were influenced by having Ursuline Sisters as teachers, parish ministry is another way to have contact with people across the age spectrum.

“You reach a lot of people in parish ministry,” said Sister Margaret Ann Aull, who has spent more than 20 years in parish ministry and is now coordinator of pastoral care at Parish of the Immaculate in Owensboro, Ky. “With RCIA and religious education, you’re around kids all the time.”

“I reach lots of people,” said Sister Marie Michael Hayden, pastoral associate and director of religious education at St. John the Baptist Parish in Fordsville, Ky. “They all know I’m a sister.” Fordsville is not a very Catholic area, and ecumenism is another facet of what Sister Marie Michael brings.

“Anytime you want anything, you ask Sister Marie,” said Wilda Hardesty, the mayor of Fordsville. “She went through CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training with us all. She wants to be part of the community.”

“I really enjoy parish ministry,” Sister Marie Michael said. “For 15 years in Nebraska I did adult education, training mothers to teach religion. I traveled all the time,” she said. “You don’t know people like you do in a parish.”

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Spreading the Catholic faith in a mostly Protestant area is also a role Sisters Rose Karen Johnson and Rose Theresa Johnson embrace through their ministries as pastoral associates at St. Joseph Catholic Center in Greenville, Ky.

“We are the only Catholic church in the county,” said Jean Simpson, an Ursuline Associate. “Everyone loves the sisters in the community. People stop and talk to them, it’s very ecumenical. The most amazing thing is the attitudes that they are changing,” Simpson said.

“We can’t step out of the house without witnessing,” Sister Rose Karen said. “It’s not us, it’s God working through us. We can’t take the credit.”

Sisters in parish ministry fill many roles -- teaching children the sacraments, leading others in music, visiting the sick and homebound, instructing members about their faith, helping bring new Catholics into the church, and serving senior citizens and the poor. They witness their faith wherever they go.

“I enjoy seeing how people grow in their faith,” said Sister Rosanne Spalding, pastoral associate and director of religious education at Precious Blood Parish in Owensboro, Ky. After 21 years as a teacher and principal, she has spent the past 25 years in parish ministry. Her favorite ministries are taking Communion to the sick once a week, helping adults learn about their faith in RCIA, and helping children in the second and eighth grades in sacramental preparation.

“The second-graders are excited because they can become servers. The eighth-graders are excited because they can become lectors and Eucharistic ministers,” Sister Rosanne said. “In RCIA, you can see how excited they get.” One person who joined the church this year

Sister Rosanne Spalding shows a “Wheel of Fortune” activity she was considering using to members of the Vacation Bible School planning committee at Precious Blood Parish in Owensboro, Ky.

By Dan Heckel, Mount Saint Joseph Staff

Sisters Serve Multiple Roles in Parish MinistrySister Marie Michael Hayden, left, shares a laugh with Wanda Sprankle, center, and Mary Young, as they prepare to serve the senior citizens lunch at the Jack and Joan Edge Community Center in Fordsville, Ky.

does great at everything.”Sister Rosanne also volunteers at the parish day

care center when she can, “so those little tots get exposed to a sister,” she said.

Sister Beth Akins is the director of faith formation at St. Alphonsus Parish, a parish of 180 families across the road from Mount Saint Joseph. “I like working with kids of all different ages, getting to know the people, helping them through troubled times and celebrating the good times,” she said.

Susan O’Bryan, secretary/bookkeeper for the parish, said Sister Beth has taken on many roles,

including RCIA, taking Communion to the sick, and filling in the gaps for the pastor, Father Ray Goetz, who splits his time being chaplain at the Mount and teaching at Brescia University.

“She was instrumental in getting men to be catechists, so they could be role models for the boys,” O’Bryan said. “She’s very much a go-getter.”

helPing to healSister Margaret Ann visits five nursing homes a week,

bringing Communion to Immaculate parishioners. Either she or the pastor visits the hospital every day, and during the third week of the month, she visits 16 people in their homes.

In June, she visited Marjorie Slack, a 1953 graduate of Mount Saint Joseph Academy, at Hillcrest Health Care Center in Owensboro. “It’s kind of the highlight of my week when someone brings me Communion,” Slack said. (She got to return home in July.)

“I enjoy (taking Communion) and bereavement the most,” Sister Margaret Ann said. Her bereavement ministry includes visiting a parishioner about two weeks after the death of a spouse, and twice a year she has a memorial service.

Sister Rose Karen said she and Sister Rose Theresa visit the sick, the dying, and those who are out of the church. Muhlenberg County has 479 square miles, so the two are “always driving.”

Jean Simpson said their ministry to the sick is what is so special. “It’s really comforting to know if you call on them, they’ll come.” Fellow parishioner Linda Wells said, “They never missed coming to see me when I broke my ankle and couldn’t go to church. And I live out in the boonies.”

Sister Marie Michael also delivers Communion at the

Father Ben Luther, an Ursuline Associate, says Mass in the small room of the Greenville, Ky., house where Sisters Rose Karen and Rose Theresa Johnson live.Each Wednesday, a room in the house is converted to a chapel for morning Mass.

RIGHT: Pictured from left are Sister Rose Theresa Johnson, Queenie Smith, Rick Smith, Sister Rose Karen Johnson, and Laura Smith.

said he was finally at peace. “That makes you feel good about what you’re doing, even though it’s not me, it’s the Spirit working through me.” it’S about kidS

One facet of parish ministry that many former teachers first moved into was as a director of religious education for the children.

Sister Karla works with religious education for 155 students in the St. Mary parish who attend public school, and works with second- and eighth-graders at St. Mary School to prepare them for first Communion, reconciliation, and confirmation. “It takes me back to my days as a teacher,” Sister Karla said. “So much of what I did as a teacher works here. My skills in the classroom prepared me for this.”

This summer she was in charge of Vacation Bible School, where the theme was “SonSurf Beach Bash. The Sea, the Land, the Son.” There were 64 children involved – ages preschool to sixth grade – but she also had 51 volunteers, some of whom are seventh to 12th-graders.

Beatty, the parishioner who did much of the artwork for Vacation Bible School, said Sister Karla’s presence is very positive. “She works with adults with PREP (parish religious education program), and they go home to their children. It ripples on,” Beatty said.

Sister Rosanne was also responsible for Vacation Bible School this summer at Precious Blood, where the theme was “10 Do’s and 10 Don’ts.”

“She does a great job, she developed our own Vacation Bible School,” said Ima Axley, a Precious Blood parishioner who is on the planning team. “She

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Fordsville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, and visits the poor in the small community. On a Wednesday in June, she took Communion to Opal Boarman, then went to the Jack and Joan Edge Community Center to help serve that day’s senior citizen lunch.

In a parish of only 72 members, Sister Marie Michael wears many hats, including preparing for Mass, singing in the choir, helping at a food pantry, and serving as

head of religious education for children and RCIA. She only has five children in religious education, but had four people enter the church this year through RCIA.

“It’s wonderful having Sister Marie, she’s a hard worker,” said

Sister Karla talked with the 64 children, ages preschool to sixth grade, who took part in Vacation Bible School during June 2011.

• SisterBethAkins,directoroffaithformation,St.AlphonsusParish,St.Joseph,Ky.• SisterMargaretAnnAull,coordinatorofpastoralcare,ParishoftheImmaculate,Owensboro,Ky.• SisterMaryEllenBackes,pastoralassistant,St.JosephParish,Springfield,Ill.• SisterElaineByrne,pastoralassociate,St.JeromeParish,FancyFarm,Ky.• SisterKathleenCondry,pastoralminister,ChurchoftheNativity,Leawood,Kan.• SisterAliciaCoomes,pastoralassociateatthreeKentuckyparishes,St.FrancisBorgiainSturgis, St.AmbroseinHenshaw,andSt.WilliaminMarion• SisterSaraMarieGomez,directorofreligiouseducation,HolyTrinityandSt.Josephparishes,Aztec,N.M.• SisterMaureenGriner,directorofmusicforCathedraloftheImmaculateConception,Memphis,Tenn.• SisterMarieMichaelHayden,pastoralassociate/directorofreligiouseducation,St.JohntheBaptistParish,Fordsville,Ky.• SisterRoseKarenandSisterRoseTheresaJohnson,pastoralassociates,St.JosephCatholicCenter,Greenville,Ky.• SisterKarlaMarieKaelin,parishreligiouseducationprogram/DRE,St.MaryoftheWoodsParish,Whitesville,Ky.• SisterMildredKatzer,parishvolunteer,St.ThereseParish,Richmond,Kan.• SisterLarraineLauter,socialresponsibilityminister,ChurchoftheEpiphany,Louisville,Ky.• SisterNancyLiddy,pastoralassociate,ChurchofSt.FrancisXavier,Carbondale,Ill.• SisterCeceliaJosephOlinger,pastoralassociateforSt.GeorgeParish,VanBuren,Mo.;St.Catherine ofSienaParish,Piedmont,Mo.,andOurLadyofSorrowsParish,Williamsville,Mo.• SisterJoanRiedley,parishminister,MaryQueenofPeaceParish,Louisville,Ky.• SisterMarcellaSchrant,officeassistant,St.JohntheEvangelistParish,Lawrence,Kan.• SisterHelenSmith,coordinatorofsacramentalpreparation,ChurchoftheNativity,Leawood,Kan.• SisterRosanneSpalding,pastoralassociateanddirectorofreligiouseducation,PreciousBloodParish, Owensboro,Ky.

ursuline Sisters now Serving in Parish Ministry

Sister Joan Riedley

Martha Payne, the bookkeeper at St. John the Baptist and a parishioner since the 1970s. “She’s been good for us. She doesn’t hand us anything to do that she wouldn’t do.”

Sister Marie Michael’s favorite part of her ministry is the Sunday liturgy, because “everyone participates.” Sisters Rose Karen and Rose Theresa, who are siblings, also have a special relationship with the liturgy – every Wednesday morning, it happens in their home.

Because St. Joseph Parish is 10 miles away from Greenville, Father Ben Luther, an Ursuline Associate, comes to the Johnson home – which is owned by the church – and says Mass at 8:30 a.m. in a room converted to a chapel. Afterward, the sisters scurry to the kitchen to make hot biscuits and coffee for all those who attend. Jean Simpson said Sister Rose Theresa is known as “Our Lady of the Gravy” by Father Luther.

“We love ministering here, the people are so good to us,” Sister Rose Theresa said.

Social juSticeSister Mary Ellen Backes serves as pastoral assistant

at St. Joseph Parish in Springfield, Ill., working closely with adult parishioners to increase their faith. Over the years, she has been involved in efforts such as “Generations of Faith;” creating small church

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Sister Sara Marie Gomez

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S ister Raymond Dieckman has always been active,

so when her health suffered shortly after she moved to Saint Joseph Villa in June 2009 and hindered her mobility, she was hoping there would be activities to keep her occupied.

Turns out, she came to the right place.“Every day there is something planned for us,”

Sister Raymond said. “I just appreciate so much the variety of things that keep our minds alert.”

Saint Joseph Villa was completed in 2002, replacing the infirmary in Lourdes Hall. The goal was to care for the physical and spiritual needs of the sisters in need of long-term care. That includes helping them stay active, said Debbie Dugger, activities coordinator the past four years.

“It’s important to let the Villa sisters know they aren’t leaving the community,” Dugger said. “They need to stay involved, they are just as viable.”

Regular programs include exercise three to four times a week, such as walks and kickball, and Wii games were introduced this year, Dugger said. The sisters play bingo once a week, watch a movie every Thursday, and receive pet visits from Dugger’s golden retriever Daisy every Tuesday and Thursday.

“There’s always a positive response with Daisy,” Dugger said. Out of the 35 sisters currently in the Villa, 27 have bonded with Daisy, she said.

Dugger helps keep the sisters up on current events. “Anything educational, any seasonal event, we’ll do trivia and facts, and reminiscing activities,” she said.

“For Father’s Day, we had a whole session on remembering our fathers,” Sister Raymond said.

While many of the activities for the sisters are intended for enjoyment –celebrating special events like Mardi Gras and Cinco de Mayo, a fruit and melon

Sister Raymond Dieckman pets Daisy inside the small chapel in Saint Joseph Villa.

saint Joseph Villa is home for . . . ‘Sisters in action!’

social – there is another plan at work, Dugger said.“We’re there to plan out programs that cover

cognitive thought practices and motor skills. We’re not just having fun,” Dugger said.

One of the popular regular activities is kickball, where the sisters form a circle in the Rainbow Room and kick a ball back and forth. “Kickball gets the sisters excited,” said Sister Alfreda Malone, who moved to the Villa this spring. “It has motion, you’re using your reflexes, and using a lot of muscles.”

Sister Raymond credits the exercise with helping her get back on her feet. She has been in a wheelchair for two years, but with the help of a walker, can now walk the length of the main hallway in the Villa. “Our group for kickball is growing,” she said. “It’s amazing to see these older sisters get right in there.”

While the physical needs of the sisters are important, so are the spiritual. Randy Shelby is coordinator of pastoral care, and said one of the most important elements is compassionate listening.

“Pastoral care staff visits each sister in Saint Joseph Villa on a regular basis to offer a listening ear and prayer,” Shelby said. “More often than not, just being able to express a concern helps a sister find resolution to a problem.” Sisters Diane Marie Payne and Marietta Wethington serve on the pastoral care staff.

“We provide spiritual support on a routine basis as well as during times of critical illness and at the end of life,” Shelby said. “Spiritual support includes praying with sisters, offering spiritual counseling, and spiritual direction. We also provide written inspirational materials.” Shelby is a graduate of the Spiritual Direction Training Program at Mount Saint Joseph, and Sister Marietta is one of the coordinators of that

Sister Frances McDonagh speaks with a student from Mary Carrico School in Knottsville, Ky., Nov. 9, 2010. Several students were square dancing for the sisters. RIGHT: Sister Frances Miriam Spalding, left, helps Debbie Dugger crown Sister Mary Mercedes Knott “queen” on Mardi Gras.

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Sister Rosanne talks to the children during Vacation Bible School at Precious Blood Catholic Church.

program.The Villa has a small chapel, and every Friday at 3

p.m. the sisters meet there for a holy hour of Eucharistic adoration. Sister Ruth Mattingly prays the rosary with the sisters daily in the Rainbow Room just prior to suppertime, and many of the sisters participate in the Powerhouse of Prayer, praying for all those in need.

“The time for prayer is just wonderful,” Sister Raymond said

The Rainbow Room is the large, cheerful gathering space in the Villa, with abundant natural light through 20 windows that were built low to the ground so sisters in wheelchairs could still see out. The views from the windows are of rolling hills and trees.

Many sisters have an adjustment period when they move into the Villa, Dugger said. They must get used to the nursing schedule, the bath schedule, and getting to know the staff. “I try to work with the community sisters also,” Dugger said. “They’re invited to everything we do in the Villa, so many of them come to help.”

Dugger does an activity assessment when a sister moves to the Villa, to find out what she enjoys. “I have to know their diagnosis and their diet. I’m also looking for changes,” she said. She does an annual assessment, and lots of times she sees improvement.

The sisters in the Villa enjoy going outside during nice weather, and seeing visitors year round. At the upcoming Mount Saint Joseph Picnic, the proceeds of which benefit the retired sisters, as many sisters from the Villa who want to come will be brought to the hospitality tent so they can mingle with visitors.

“They love visiting the hospitality tent,” Dugger said. “We need more volunteers to help with their wheelchairs.” nn

saint Joseph Villa is home for . . . ‘Sisters in action!’

communities to share faith; “Just Faith,” which teaches the social teachings of the church and urges more activity in social justice; and “Why Catholic?” a study of the catechism done during Advent and Lent.

She and some parishioners serve meals at two homeless shelters each month, part of the parish’s recognition of the diversity of people it serves. Sister Mary Ellen said she enjoys parish ministry even more than teaching. “There’s more interacting with the people,” she said. “I’d like to work with families more.”

“Everyone loves Sister,” said Karen Siciliano, an Ursuline Associate and active member of St. Joseph’s. “The people in this parish will do anything for Sister Mary Ellen.”

Sister Maureen Griner is the director of music at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Memphis, Tenn., and also is director of the Dorothy Day House of Hospitality, a homeless shelter for families who would be divided otherwise. She has enlisted many of the parishioners at the Cathedral to be involved in the Dorothy Day House.

The 43-member Cathedral choir practices on Wednesday nights, and members say Sister Maureen spends as much time on liturgy as she does music.

“She’s always asking us, ‘Have you thought about what this really means?’” said Sally Greene, an Ursuline Associate.

Ursuline Associate Mike Synk, a Cathedral parishioner, said Sister Maureen is very “street wise,” like other Ursuline Sisters he’s met. “They seem to understand how to live with real people with real problems,” he said. “She always seems to preach on something that someone here is worrying about. I think most people come for something other than singing.”n

Parish Ministry FRoM Page 5

Sister Maureen smiles as she leads the Cathedral of

the Immaculate Conception choir in Memphis, Tenn.

Sister Pauletta McCarty, left, Sister Miriam Medley, center, and Sister Mary Durr share a laugh during a lively game of kickball in the Villa on June 29. The sisters sit in a circle and tap or kick the beach ball from one person to another.

By Dan Heckel, Mount Saint Joseph Staff

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70 years...Sister Pauletta McCarty, a native of Curdsville, Ky., was an educator for more than 36 years, teaching in Kentucky, Missouri, and Nebraska. She also ministered to nursing homes and in a parish. She was assistant local superior, director of transportation, and sacristan at Mount Saint Joseph. She retired to the Motherhouse in 1998, where she remains active in the Powerhouse of Prayer.

Sister Jean Gertrude Mudd is a native of Fredericktown, Ky., and was a teacher for 49 years in various schools in Kentucky, Missouri, and Nebraska. She served in health care at Mount Saint Joseph. For 10 years until her retirement to the Motherhouse in 2006, she was a quilter at the community’s Saint Angela Convent in Louisville.

60 years...Sister Susanne Bauer, a native of Louisburg, Kan., was an educator for 42 years and was assistant superior and treasurer of her religious community, the Ursuline Sisters of Paola, prior to their merger with the Maple Mount community. Sister Susanne taught and served as principal in various schools in Kansas and in Bartlesville, Okla. She retired to the Motherhouse in 2009, and serves as the chapel sacristan.

Sister Clarence Marie Luckett is a Greenbrier, Ky., native and was a teacher for 29 years at several cities in Kentucky. She worked in the craft room and helped with transportation at the Motherhouse. She has also served in parish ministry and Hispanic ministry. For

the past 12 years, Sister Clarence Marie has been involved in outreach ministry, mainly in Caneyville, Ky.

50 years...Sister Helena Fischer is a native of Rome, Ky. Since 1987 she has ministered at Brescia College/University, Owensboro, as director of institutional research (1987-97), assistant registrar (1987-90), and registrar (1990-present). She was a principal or teacher for 22 years in Kentucky, Missouri, and New Mexico.

Sister Julia Head is a native of Stanley, Ky. She ministered in Daviess County, Ky., as a teacher, in parish ministry, as director of the apostolate at the Motherhouse, in the Office of Adult Education for the Diocese of Owensboro, and coordinator of off-campus courses at Brescia College/University. She has served elsewhere in Kentucky and in Nebraska. She is currently serving as assistant congregational leader of the Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph.

Sister Nancy Murphy is a native of Curdsville, Ky. She ministered at Brescia College/University, as well as for her community as director of the juniorate program, as local superior, director of novices, and as assistant local community life coordinator. She served as a teacher and principal elsewhere in Kentucky

and Missouri, and also ministered in Illinois. She is now serving as congregational secretary and as a councilor on the Ursuline leadership Council.

Sister Rose Marita O’Bryan, a native of Owensboro, has twice served in Ursuline leadership, as a councilor and as major superior/congregational leader. She was vocation director, contact program coordinator, and director of postulants. She served in parish ministry in Hickman, Ky., and as an educator in Missouri. Since 2005 she has been director of Mission Effectiveness for the Ursuline Sisters, and director of the Contemporary Woman Program at Brescia University.

Sister Rosanne Spalding, a native of Springfield, Ky., was a teacher and principal for 21 years at several locations in Kentucky, and in Nebraska. She was director of religious education at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Owensboro for 12 years, and since 1998, she has been pastoral associate and director of religious education at Precious Blood Parish in Owensboro.

Sister Kathleen Kaelin is a native of Louisville, Ky. She ministered in Maple Mount as a teacher at Mount Saint Joseph Academy, as director of the temporary professed, and as associate director of the

Jubilarians, left to right, front: Sisters Pauletta McCarty, Jean Gertrude Mudd, Susanne Bauer, and Clarence Marie Luckett. Back: Sisters Betsy Moyer, Julia Head, Nancy Murphy, Kathleen Kaelin, Rosanne Spalding, Helena Fischer, and Rose Marita O’Bryan.

Eleven sisters are celebrating jubilees of religious life

Continued on page 9

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W hen she was 10 years old, Irma Clara Wiesner made her own

dress and entered it in the county fair in Richmond, Kan., where she won first place. She won first place every year after that, until her last fair before entering the Ursuline convent at 15.

“I got second prize. I used a double thread to make the buttonholes instead of a single thread,” she said.

That setback didn’t deter her from her love of sewing. Now the seamstress extraordinaire, known as Sister Emerentia Wiesner during her 69 years as an Ursuline Sister, makes beautiful items for the craft booth at the Mount Saint Joseph Picnic to benefit the retired Ursuline Sisters. She also sews for some of the sisters at the Motherhouse.

“I’ve always enjoyed sewing,” she said. “It’s fun to make different articles, and sometimes very challenging.”

Sister Emerentia was an Ursuline Sister of Paola, Kan., prior to the merger of that community with Mount Saint Joseph in 2008. From 1989 until she moved to Kentucky in 2009, she was sewing for the sisters in Paola, and making craft items for the Christmas Boutique fundraiser each year.

“I began sewing for the sisters when I first entered the convent,” Sister Emerentia said. “We made our own habits and other articles of clothing. Some of the postulants and novices hadn’t learned to sew, so it was my duty to help them.”

Sister Emerentia went to public school in Richmond, a small town about 35 miles southwest of Paola, and met the Ursuline Sisters when they came on the weekends to teach catechism, and during the summer for Vacation Bible School. When she was 12 or 13, she started seriously thinking about becoming an Ursuline. “It was just the presence of the sisters,” she said.

Her first ministry, from 1945-73, was as a teacher or principal in seven schools in Kansas and one in Oklahoma. “I enjoyed teaching the little ones,” she said.

sister Emerentia helps keep the sisters in stitchesnot really retired...

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In 1973, the Ursuline community needed someone to handle nursing, and Sister Emerentia volunteered. After a year of training, she became director of Monica Hall, the infirmary at Paola, from 1974-87.

“I enjoyed it, it was a challenge,” she said. “It taught me patience and charity. I had to learn to adapt.”

After two years of tutoring middle school age students, Sister Emerentia began sewing for the sisters and the Boutique full time in 1989. It was a skill she learned from her mother when she was a little girl.

“I was the oldest daughter, so I wanted to help Mother,” she said. “My mother made all of our clothes,

so I watched her and did some basting for her. She probably didn’t need to have it basted, but it made me feel needed.”

When several of the sisters from Paola moved to Maple Mount in 2009, Sister Emerentia said she wanted to continue sewing for the community. Many of her creations will be available for sale at the picnic on Sept. 11, including baked potato bags, fancy aprons, table runners, children’s books, and children’s dresses.

She can also crochet and embroider. She does mending for the sisters who live in Paul Volk Hall or St. Ursula Hall, while Sister Mary Irene Cecil does sewing for the sisters in Saint Joseph Villa. The two sew together in a room in St. Ursula Hall.

“She’s taught me quite a lot,” Sister Mary Irene said, although Sister Emerentia quickly dismissed such a notion. “We ask each other for advice and she helps me a lot,” Sister Mary Irene said.

Sister Emerentia said she will keep sewing for the sisters as long as she is able. “I thank God for my gift of sewing,” she said. She’s also thankful that her sewing machine has an attachment to make buttonholes.

Friends can write to Sister Emerentia at 8001 Cummings Road, Maple Mount, KY 42356.

Sister Emerentia Wiesner is busy at her sewing machine, making items for the

sisters to sell.

Mount Saint Joseph Conference and Retreat Center. She ministered for the Diocese of Owensboro, served in the ministry formation program at Brescia College, and was a teacher in Missouri. Today, she ministers as a therapist and retreat/spiritual guide at the Center for Sacred Psychology in Louisville.

40 years...

Sister Betsy (Elizabeth Mary) Moyer is a native of Nebraska City, Neb. Her 20 years as a teacher and principal included schools in Kentucky, Missouri, and New Mexico. Sister Betsy has ministered in health care in the Motherhouse

infirmary, and as administrator of Saint Joseph Villa. She taught religion and helped in a health clinic in Jamaica. She was a nurse in Kansas, and since April 2010, has served as an LPN for St. Francis Hospital and Health Services, Maryville, Mo., while also teaching third-grade religion at a parish.

U r s u l i n e s A L I V E

The following sisters retired from active ministry:

Sister Luisa Bickett retired from pastoral outreach in Ohio County, Ky., after serving there for 27 years, mostly in service to the Hispanic community. She is living at the Motherhouse. Sister Darlene Denton retired as pastoral associate from Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Louisville, which merged St. Helen Parish with two others in 2009. She served at the parish for 13 years. She is living at the Motherhouse. Sister Clara Johnson retired as secretary/bookkeeper at the Sister Visitor Center in Louisville, Ky., after 17 years in the position. She is living at the Motherhouse.

Sister Rita Klarer retired as pastoral minister at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Mo., after 12 years. She spent 37 years in ministry in the Kansas City area. She is living at the Motherhouse. Sister Clara Reid retired as a teacher at St. Charles Borromeo School in Albuquerque, N.M., where she has served since 1989, as well as from

1971-80. She was a full-time teacher for 50 years. She will remain in Albuquerque as a substitute teacher for the coming year.

10

The following sisters are embarking on new ministries this year: Sister Joseph Angela Boone, consultant for Finance and Administrative Team of the Diocese of Owensboro. She retired after 22 years as chancellor for the diocese.Sister Alicia Coomes, pastoral associate at three Kentucky parishes: St. Francis Borgia in Sturgis, St. Ambrose in Henshaw, and St. William in Marion; and director of temporary professed. Previously served in health care at the Motherhouse.

Sister Mary Sheila Higdon, part-time coordinator of formation for Ursuline Partnerships. She previously served full-time in pastoral ministry in southeast Missouri.Sister Martha Keller, full-time director of vocation ministry. Previously split her time with vocation ministry and parish ministry in Paducah, Ky.

Sister Nancy Liddy, pastoral associate at the Church of St. Francis Xavier, Carbondale, Ill. She previously served in pastoral ministry in Belleville, Ill.Sister Michele Morek, director of Career Services and grants coordinator at Brescia University. Previously served as congregational leader and UNANIMA intern.Sister Cecelia Joseph Olinger, pastoral associate at St. George Parish, Van Buren, Mo.; St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Piedmont, Mo.; and Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Williamsville, Mo. Previously offered outreach in Benton, Ky.Sister Teresa Riley, outreach in the Benton, Ky., area. Previously served in hospitality at the Motherhouse.

Sister Mary Lois Speaks, partnership and Ursuline outreach in Marion County, Ky., and spiritual formation/faith development in Raywick, Ky. She retired as an in-school detention aide at Marion County High School in Lebanon, Ky., after 13 years. Sister Marietta Wethington, adjunct to Mount Saint Joseph Conference

and Retreat Center and pastoral care in Saint Joseph Villa, relinquishing her ministry in formation for Ursuline Partnerships.

Sister Joseph Angela Boone visits with Father Mike Clark at her June 8 retirement reception. They worked together when he was the administrator for the diocese in 2009-10 while awaiting the appointment of a new bishop.

new Ministries and retirements

Sister Clara Reid displays her scrapbooks at her May 6 retirement celebration from St. Charles Borromeo School in Albuquerque, N.M., where she has been since 1989. She has a scrapbook from every class she has taught during her 50 years in education.

Sister Rita

Sister Mary Sheila

Sister Marie Goretti Browning prays in the Motherhouse chapel during the week of

June 27-July 1. The Ursuline Sisters offered 60 hours of Eucharistic Adoration for

vocations in observance of Pope Benedict XVI’s 60th Anniversary of Ordination.

Sister Mary Lois

S u m m e r � 0 1 1

11

Dear Ursuline Friends,During the first week of July,

our sisters were home for our annual Community Days. They came from the four corners of the United States to share prayer, information, and fun. It is always so good to have them home. The sisters share stories about their work and are encouraged to return with the love and

support of those at the Motherhouse. It gives one the sense that we are all in the work together. One sister may be working at a distant location but because we are community, we are all there in spirit working beside her. None of us is ever alone. Jesus and the community are right there.

It was also an opportunity to tell the sisters how wonderful our donors have been to us this year. Your support has helped our missions and ministry in countless ways. Men, women, and children have been educated, women and children have been fed, babies have been cared for, and many people have learned about God through the religious education programs taught by our sisters. With your help, we are making a difference in the lives of so many of God’s people. You are helping us make that difference. Thank you.

We also talked about our upcoming annual picnic. The money raised during the picnic is used to support our retired sisters. The cost for their care continues to grow so the income from the picnic is essential. Please come to join us for our big day on Sept. 11, 2011. We have great food, fun, and games. We have so many generous volunteers to help us before, during, and after the big day. We are so grateful for their help. If you can’t come but would like to support the retired sisters, you can take chances on the great prizes we have this year by asking for raffle tickets, send a donation of $20 for a quilt club ticket, or simply send a donation. Every donation is a blessing. All the information is explained in other areas of Ursulines Alive or on our website www.ursulinesmsj.org.

In his book, “The Spirituality of Fund-raising,” Henri Nouwen, writer and spiritual leader, stated, “Gratitude flows from the recognition that who we are and what we have are gifts to be received and shared.” We have so much for which we must be thankful. Let us give God the glory and honor for all we have and share His love and gifts with others.

Thank you for your support, care, love, and concern. We hold you in our hearts and in our prayers.

Sincerely,

– Sister Amelia Stenger, OSU, Director of Development

thanks for Making a Difference Ursuline Associate Ed Cecil talks to Sister Barbara Jean Head at the April 30 annual fundraising dinner for the Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph. A crowd was on hand to enjoy “A Night at the Antique Auction” where they got to bid on furniture and pick up items for sale.

Raffle tickets only $2 each Win a Trip to a South Seas condo on Marco Island,

Florida! (Flight for 2 included!) • $3,000 • $1,000 • $500 • Handmade Quilt • 32” Toshiba HD LCD TV

Get your tickets from any Ursuline Sister or call

270-229-4103 ext. 278 tiffany.orth@maplemount.org

The Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph in Maple Mount, Ky.

invite you to our 41st annual

P I C N I C Sunday, Sept. 11

For the benefit of the retired Ursuline Sisters Serving barbecue pork, mutton, chicken, burgoo 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.Crafts! Games! Yard Sale! Silent Auction! (Booths open 10:30-3:00) We are located 12 miles west of Owensboro on Hwy. 56

License #0290

Sister Clarence Marie Luckett

New Quilt Club drawings begin Oct. 7, 2011.Order your tickets today!

270-229-4103 ext. 278tiffany.orth@maplemount.org

You get 12 chances to win a handmade quilt

with our Quilt Club annual memberships, available for

only $20 each. Buy one for yourself and

one for a friend!A new quilt is raffled each

month. For details, visit www.ursulinesmsj.org. Click on “How You Can Help” and

“Quilt Club Membership.”

Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph 2011-12 Quilt Club Tickets

are now available!

License No. 0290

Sister Amelia

1�

AUGUSTSaint Angela Merici Retreat .................................... Weekend of Aug. 27-28 ForallUrsulineAssociates,Alumnae,andFriends!Yoga and Meditation Retreat ..................................Friday-Sunday, Aug. 26-28

SepTeMbeRReflection Day of Prayer (“Instruments of God”) ...............Friday, Sept. 2Mount Saint Joseph 41st Annual BBQ Picnic ........................ Sunday, Sept. 11Leadership McLean County ..........................Friday and Saturday, Sept. 16-17First Baptist Church Choir ...................................................Saturday, Sept. 17Runaway Quilters ................................................ Tuesday-Friday, Sept. 20-23Green Living Symposium ............................................... Wednesday, Sept. 28First United Methodist Women’s Retreat ........ Friday-Saturday, Sept. 30-Oct. 1

ocTobeRSpiritual Direction Training - Week 5 ................................ Week of oct. 3-7Reflection Day of Prayer (“The Falling Leaves”) ..................Friday, Oct. 7Marian Retreat with Msgr. Bernard Powers ......... Friday-Sunday, Oct. 7-9Catholic Engaged Encounter ....................................... Weekend of Oct. 15-16Owensboro Christian Church Staff .............. Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 17-18Diocesan Priest Retreat ..................................................... Week of Oct. 24-28Owensboro Christian Elders .......................... Friday and Saturday, Oct. 28-29

noveMbeRAll Souls Day Prayer Service ....................................... Wednesday, Nov. 2Reflection Day of Prayer (“Faithful Love”) ........................... Friday, Nov. 4Academy for Young Leaders ...........................................Weekend of Nov. 5-6Thomas Merton Retreat ..................................... Friday-Sunday, Nov. 11-13Yarn Spinners Day .............................................................Saturday, Nov. 12Mount Hope Weekend ............................................Friday-Sunday, Nov. 18-20

DECEMBERReflection Day of Prayer (“Homecoming”) .......................... Friday, Dec. 2Advent Day of Prayer .........................................................Thursday, Dec. 8

To register or to schedule your event, call Kathy McCarty 270-229-4103, ext. 802 • kathy.mccarty@maplemount.org

The Retreat Center is located 12 miles west of Owensboro on Hwy. 56

Center-sponsored programs are in bold type. Please call to register.

Randy Lanham, music instructor, teaches students at the June 5-9 Maple Mount music and nature camp.

About 20 women came to a retreat for administrative assistants titled, “Spirituality at Work: Being a Letter from God” on April 27, led by Sister Mary Matthias Ward.

LEFT: Teens from Blessed Mother Catholic Church in Owensboro,

Ky., converse on the steps at the Center on March 19. Their group was preparing for the sacrament

of Confirmation.RIGHT: Students from St. Peter

and Paul School in Hopkinsville, Ky., visited the Mount on May 20 for an “environmental day.”

Pictured is Sister Amelia Stenger.

Mount Saint JoSeph ConferenCe and retreat Center

Calendar of eventS - fall 2011

OURMISSION:MountSaintJosephConferenceandRetreatCenteroffersandhostsprogramsinaruralenvironmentof

tranquilityforpeopleofallagesandfaithstonurturespiritualandpersonalgrowth,advance

thearts,andpromotelifelonglearning.

A Ministry of the Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph

Members of the Christian Women’s Retreat enjoy their time at the Center on the weekend of April 15-17.

S u m m e r � 0 1 1

13

Dear Friends of the Center,As an elementary school teacher this time

of year was always “new year” because it was the time when the school year began. For me this has always been a time of great excitement. Everyone can begin with a clean slate. Whatever has happened in the past can be forgotten.

Now as I am thinking of a “new beginning” I look at the programs we are planning for the remainder of the year. We continue with reflection days that have been very enriching for those who have come away for a time of quiet with God. The last weekend of August we will offer an Angela Retreat for the Ursuline Associates who would like to spend some time learning more about Saint Angela Merici.

The month of September finds us welcoming all the picnic volunteers who come to help make our second Sunday of September picnic a success. The Runaway Quilters join us for four days to teach or learn quilting, and to spend time with others who have a similar passion for quilting.

During October, Father Powers will again offer a Marian Retreat. This will be a good time away to spend time with Mary and experience her love for all of us. There are a couple of private retreats scheduled for this month. We always welcome anyone who would like to take some quiet time with God. It can be an hour, day, two or three days, or a week.

Again this year on Nov. 2nd you are invited to gather with us on All Souls Day to remember all those who have died. During the second weekend please plan to join in learning more about Thomas Merton and how he can lead us to a deeper relationship with God.

With the beginning of Advent we wind down the year, remembering to use Advent as a time to prepare for the Celebration of a new Birth of Christ in our hearts. During the second week of Advent you are invited to an Advent Day of Prayer. Come, spend some time getting your heart prepared for this wonderful celebration.

God bless you,

– Sister Ann McGrew, Directorann.mcgrew@maplemount.org

Sister Ann

The Blessed Virgin Mary not only has a physical relationship with Jesus but also a spiritual relationship. We

also share a spiritual relationship with Jesus. The fee is $175 (or $120 for commuters). Deduct 10% if paid in full by Sept. 7.

Contact Kathy McCarty: 270-229-4103 ext. 802 or kathy.mccarty@maplemount.org. Find a flyer at msjcenter.org

“The Blessed Virgin Mary” Annual Marian Retreat: Oct. 7-9, 2011

Retreat Director Msgr. Bernard Powers

“Our Visitors Are Saying”The first Friday of each month this year has featured a Reflection Day of Prayer, presented by Sister Ann McGrew and based on Joyce Rupp’s book, “May I Have This Dance?” Here’s what some of the participants say about their experience...

“These first Friday days are an excellent example of what Ursulines do

so well, follow Angela’s teaching and empower each of us to look at Jesus as we walk our way, like the disciples did at Emmaus. I walk away renewed, and I have enough material to write in my

journal for a month.”–Peggy Clark

“You cannot underestimate the peacefulness of coming to the Mount.

Just being able to get away and reflect, to have a prayerful day in the country. I’m very anxious for the next

one to start.”–Mary Helen Nash:

“Sister Ann is excellent at giving us a thought for the day and releasing us on

our own. I was very familiar with the book by Joyce Rupp, but I was surprised how it was different because of Sister Ann’s

presentation. Sister Ann is very honest in sharing her life experience with us, and

her willingness to let us share, and pursue where we are heading.”

–MarthaLittle

“I like everything about it. I like the way Sister Ann talks to you, the discussions, and the very quiet that I can have. The people there have

been very interesting to talk to. I’m happy to go back the rest

of the year.”–FrancesFeldpausch

Give Peace, Quiet, and

Prayer a Chance

Limited scholarships available. Contact Sister Ann McGrew at 270-229-4103 ext. 801.

U r s u l i n e s A L I V E

14

Writers workshop an example of Center’s many usesKimberly Frost first attended a Writers Retreat Workshop in 2002. In

June, the published author was back at the workshop, now in its second year at the Mount Saint Joseph Conference and Retreat Center, as one of the speakers.

“I’m back to help other writers,” Frost said. Four years after her first experience with the workshop, she got an agent in 2006 and sold her first novel a year later, which was published in 2009.

Frost is an emergency room doctor in Houston, Texas, when she’s not writing. This was her first visit to Maple Mount, and the scenery was a big hit. “We took a walk and the sunset was so fantastic, we just stopped and stared,” she said.

Much of what the Center sponsors are religious retreats and programs, but it is a “conference” and retreat center, and businesses, schools, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations find the Center the best place to get away and focus their energies.

The Writers Retreat Workshop is one such example. It began in 1987 as a way to help aspiring writers hone their craft. Its leaders have often used retreat centers as their location for the 10-day retreat, because of the peacefulness they afford.

Jason Sitzes, director of the Writers Retreat, said the Mount Saint Joseph Conference and Retreat Center is a great venue and the writers hope to return every year. About 30 participants from all over the country and one from Luxembourg, Cecile Somers, attended this year’s retreat, from June 17-27.

Somers was in her second year at the workshop, but first in Maple Mount. “I like that it’s caring, nurturing, and gentle, like a family,” she said.

She found Maple Mount “charming and pretty,” and said the people are so friendly. “I like talking to the nuns, there’s a sense of continuity.”

Published authors who gave talks other than Frost this year included Carolyn Wheat, author of the Cass Jameson series of thrillers, and short story writer Matt Brock.

Robin Yaklin, from Dallas, was at the workshop for the second year. “The energy, the enthusiasm, the helpfulness of people, I love the collaborative brain

that occurs,” Yaklin said. “I love seeing the progress. A lady who was here last year had never been published, and she will be published next year.”

The only way to grow as a writer is to be around people who offer a challenge, Yaklin said. “It’s like playing bridge, you never get any better if you play with the same people all the time.”

She loves the scenery at Maple Mount. “The views out my window are just marvelous,” Yaklin said. “I exit with a smile on my face.”

To learn more about the Writers Retreat Workshop and how to attend next year’s workshop, visit www.writersretreatworkshop.com. A scholarship is available.

To schedule a time to use the Mount Saint Joseph Conference and Retreat Center, contact Kathy McCarty, at (270) 229-4103, ext. 802, or kathy.mccarty@maplemount.org.

Participants in the Writers Retreat workshop in June share their critiques of each other’s work during a breakout session in the Mount Saint Joseph Conference and Retreat Center. This year’s workshop attracted 30 members

A visitor enjoyed writing outside on the grounds of the Motherhouse campus while attending the 2011 Writers Retreat.

Our next spinning day is Saturday, Nov. 12 Spinners, weavers, knitters, and crocheters of all skill levels are welcome to attend the

quarterly spinning gatherings at the Center. Sessions begin at 10 a.m. Lunch is $12.

Call Kathy at 270-229-4103 ext. 802.

“Prayer in thomas Merton and the coming Season of advent”

Weekend Retreat Nov. 11-13, 2011Retreat director: Father james conner

FatherJamesConnerisamonkoftheAbbeyofGethsemani.HeenteredGethsemaniin1949.HewasastudentunderThomasMertonfrom1951-55during

hisyearsasmasterofstudents.Afterordinationtothepriesthoodin1957,heservedasundermasterofnovicesunderMertonfrom1958-61.HeattendedtheGregorianUniversityinRomeandreceivedaLicentiateofSacredTheology.HispastministriesincludeChaplainatOsageMonasteryinSandSprings,Okla.,andSuperiorandAbbotofAssumptionAbbeyinAva,Mo.FatherservesatGethsemaniaschaplaintotheAbbey

RetreatHouse.

Feeis$175forresidentsor$120forcommuters.Deduct10%ifpaidinfullbyOct.11.

Limited scholarships available. Contact Sister Ann McGrew at 270-229-4103 ext. 801.

Toregister,contactKathyMcCarty:270-229-4103ext.802kathy.mccarty@maplemount.org

Retreat begins 6:30 p.m. Friday. First meal is Saturday breakfast. Retreat ends after breakfast on Sunday.

S u m m e r � 0 1 1

SISTER MARY EVELYN DUVALL, 88, died April 26 at Mount Saint Joseph, in her 70th year of religious life. She was a native of Sunfish, Ky. Sister Mary Evelyn loved to travel, and was an excellent cook, seamstress, and craft maker. She was a teacher for 44 years, also serving as a librarian, housekeeper, and worked in the diet kitchen for two years at Maple Mount. She ministered throughout Kentucky, in Missouri, and for 34 years in New Mexico until retiring in 2007. Survivors include four sisters, Catherine Duvall and Martha Durbin, both of Sunfish, Mary Davis, Leitchfield, Ky., and Frances Heath, Mountain Home, Idaho; two brothers, Lawrence Duvall of Louisville, and William Pius Duvall, Brownsville, Ky.; nieces and nephews and the members of her religious community. The funeral Mass was April 29 at Mount Saint Joseph, with burial in the convent cemetery.

• Did you know that you can read the Sisters’ Wake Reflections on our website? http://www.ursulinesmsj.org/obituaries.php • Gifts in memory of a Sister may take the form of donations to the Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph,

8001 Cummings Road, Maple Mount, KY 42356.

SISTER MARITA GREENWELL, 85, died June 21, at Mount Saint Joseph, in her 65th year of religious life. She was a native of Rhodelia in Meade County, Ky. Sister Marita was an inspiration to many, first as an encouraging music teacher, and then as the leader of the Contemporary Woman Program at Brescia College/University, a revolutionary self-esteem building program for women which she directed for 32 years (1973-2005). She was a teacher at St. Martin School, Rome (1948-52), Mount Saint Joseph Academy, Maple Mount (1960-68), Blessed Mother School (1954), Immaculate School (1970-71), and Brescia College (1971-73) in Owensboro, St. Thomas More School, Paducah (1954-55), all in Kentucky, as well as in the Archdiocese of Louisville and in Missouri. She was co-director of the Ursuline Associate program from 1996-2002. Survivors include her sister, Dorothy Hughes of Elizabethtown, nieces and nephews and the members of her religious community. The funeral Mass was June 24, with burial in the convent cemetery.

in the joy of eternal life

LEFT: Mary Coogan, center, is awarded the Sister Martina Rockers Outstanding High School Science Teaching Award on March 26, 2011. To her right is Ursuline Sister Martina Rockers, to her left, Dr. Dick Wilson, educational director for Ken-A-Vision, which sponsors the award.

thE sistEr MArtinA rOCKErs AWArD is given annually to a Kansas City area

high school teacher who demonstrates the qualities of excellence in science teaching and student centeredness that are exemplified by sister Martina herself in her still continuing 58 years of teaching at Bishop Miege high school in roeland Park, Kan. sister Martina was the first winner in 2003, and the award was later named for her. the award winner is nominated and selected by a blue ribbon panel of their peers. Ken-A-Vision is an international manufacturer of microscopes and classroom cameras. this year’s winner, Mary Coogan, teaches at Liberty north high school in Liberty, Mo., about 15 miles northeast of Kansas City. she has been teaching biology and chemistry for 25 years, having taught at Lincoln College Prep Academy in Kansas City, Mo.; Dalton high school in Dalton, Mo., and Grandview high school in Grandview, Mo., before returning to her alma mater at Liberty high school. she most recently has been instrumental in establishing the science department at the new Liberty north high school. Mary has had many leadership roles in her time at Liberty, including secondary science curriculum coordinator through the district’s Educational resource Center and co-chair of the Liberty science Department. she established one of the most skilled competition programs in the Kansas City metro area. her teams have won at events such as the Chemathon at Missouri Western state university and the regional science Knowledge Bowl at rockhurst university. her teams went to the national science Bowl in Washington, D.C., three consecutive years where her teams placed well and won the Civility Award for sportsmanship.

Sister Martina Rockers 2011 award

Myriam Abeiga, in the center of this photo, was one of the last graduates of Ursuline College of Paola, Kan., getting her degree in 1955, two years before the college closed. The Ursuline Sisters of Paola started the college in 1924. In March 2011, a special moment took place for the Abeiga family, as five generations gathered to celebrate the 96th birthday of Myriam’s mother, Olga Abeiga. Pictured from right are Myriam’s daughter Blanca Spano, her mother Olga, Myriam, Myriam’s granddaughter Candace, and her great-grandson Denim. Myriam Abeiga lives in Ridgefield, N.J.

Five generations...

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on our website: www.ursulinesmsj.org

15

nOn-PrOFitu.s. POstAGE

PAiDOWEnsBOrO KYPErMit nO. 120

soli Deo GloriaWe rejoice in the gifts of our sisters, given for the kingdom of God

8001 Cummings RoadMaple Mount, KY 4�356-9999

��0-��9-4103www.ursulinesmsj.org

info.msj@maplemount.org

Sister Michele Morek, a 1966 graduate of Brescia College, was honored on April 9 as a Distinguished Alumna of Brescia. Sister Michele served at Brescia as a professor of biology from 1971-80, as academic dean and vice president of academic affairs from 1980-86, and then

professor of biology from 1986-2004. Those last four years she was chairwoman of the Division of Math and Natural Sciences. Sister Michele left Brescia in 2004 when she began serving as the congregational leader for the Ursuline Sisters, a term she concluded in 2010. “The very best moments of my career were seeing that ‘aha’ moment on a student’s face, or seeing the spark of my love for a subject jump between us and light a fire in their eyes … every teacher knows what I mean,” Sister Michele said in her acceptance speech. “And what a thrill every year to see my former students come up and receive a Distinguished Alumnus award, or to be happy and successful as human beings and in their professions.” The award was created to honor those graduates who exemplify the elements that encompass The Brescia Difference: Respect for the Sacred, Devotion to Learning, Commitment to Growth in Virtue, and Promotion of Servant Leadership. Other Ursuline Sisters to be honored by Brescia in recent years include Sister Joseph Angela Boone, Sister Rose Marita O’Bryan, and Sister Dianna Ortiz.

Sister Cheryl Clemons delivered the third in a series of weekly talks on Henri Nouwen’s book “Can You Drink the Cup?” on March 29 at the Parish of the Immaculate in Owensboro, Ky. The first two Lenten sessions were led by Father Larry Hostetter and Bishop William Medley.

Sister Rosemary Keough (far right) was honored by the Alumnae Association of Mount Saint Joseph Academy and Junior College with its Maple Leaf Award at the awards dinner on May 15. Every year since 2000, at least two graduates of the Academy or Junior College have been chosen for the award, given to those who “personify the values of their Mount Saint Joseph education in contributions to their local faith communities, civic communities, and/or Mount Saint Joseph.” Sister Rosemary received the award with her Academy classmate of 1956, Joyce Weikel Grady (pictured at left). Sister Rosemary ministers to Hispanic people in the communities surrounding Owensboro, Ky., through Centro Latino.

Sister Michele Intravia was promoted to manager of operations at the Sister Visitor Center in Louisville, Ky. Sister Michele has ministered at Sister Visitor since November 2005 as a case manager, and has served as case manager team leader most recently. “She will serve as the

point of contact for Sister Visitor Center due to her background rapport with volunteers and connections with the community,” said Lucio Caruso, director of Case Management & Family Services with Catholic Charities in Louisville. The Sister Visitor Center works directly with the poor in the western part of Louisville, finding them clothing, food, and assistance with rent, medicine and utilities. Three other Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph minister at the Sister Visitor Center, Sisters Grace Simpson, Maureen O’Neill, and Margaret Marie Greenwell.

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