Fall/Automne 2012 - Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary

VENTS DES PRAIRIES
PRAIRIE WINDS
Photo Cathy Laviole e, SNJM
Automne/Fall
2012
MANITOBA
Awakening Thirty Five Dreamers Carol Peloquin , SNJM June 16, 2012 Enthusias c par cipants gathered in the library at St. Mary’s Academy the morning of June 16 to a end the Awakening the Dreamer: Changing the Dream symposium facilitated by Sr. Chris ne Gebel. Sr. Chris ne, a member of Our Lady’s Missionaries, opened the day with a statement she would spend the rest of the day challenging us to explore and make our own: “I am com‐
mi ed to bringing forth an environmentally sus‐
tainable, spiritually fulfilling and socially just presence on this planet”. In small groups we examined our own assump‐
ons: Do I really believe that the natural world exists to sa sfy me, that I can exist and progress through my en re life as a separate individual, that racism is the result of individual prejudice and not systemic, that people and resources are disposable commodi es, that our poli cal lead‐
ers can be trusted to work for the common good? earth’s inhabitants have a roof over their heads, food, a bed to sleep in and sufficient clothing. We reflected on the “great loneliness of spirit” prevalent in our world today and how we com‐
pensate by the accumula on of more THINGS. We were saddened by sta s cs showing our planet is reaching “ pping points” from which there may be no return: when we will use more oil than we can produce, when our water supply will dwindle away, and when many of our animal companions will become ex nct. We were asked to imagine what would have to change in order for our present genera on to meet its needs without endangering the opportuni es of genera‐
ons to come. IS THERE HOPE? Sr. Chris ne says yes. We must be willing to start small or start big, but start. We must NOT go back to sleep, but wake up from our trance and ac vely seek to remain in a state of “blessed unrest”. She encouraged us, saying “From 2004‐2012, the number of organiza ons formed to struggle with these issues has grown from 2,000 to 2,000,000. Policies ARE emerging, personally and socially”. She urged us to remem‐
ber the Berlin Wall, Gandhi, Mar n Luther King, Barack Obama; to remember Desmond Tutu who o en prefaced statements with “WHEN we end apartheid…” The video clips Sr. Chris ne showed were incredi‐
ble, calling us to see from a new perspec ve. She spoke of the Pachamama Alliance formed as a response when the people of Equador and Peru saw what the quest for oil was doing to their homeland. We learned that only 17% of the Sr. Chris ne le us with three ques ons to ask ourselves: What are your passions and what makes your heart sing? What are the greatest needs you see for your community and the earth at this me? AND…What ac ons link these two areas? 2
Farewell Bob
Mary Gorman, SNJM
On June 20th the Sisters gathered at St. Mary’s Academy to
say “Thank you” to Bob Vandewater. Bob, his wife, Audrey,
and daughter, Dianne, came to a dinner in their honour. As
Bob came up the staircase, Sister Jeannine at the keyboard
swung into “The March of the Cameron Man” in recogni on
of Bob’s Sco sh heritage. “The March of the Cameron Man”
got the blood going and set the tone for the whole evening.
For 22 years Bob has served as our Financial Advisor and In‐
vestment Manager – first at St. Mary’s and then for the Sis‐
ters. His exper se and wide experience have been the solid
founda on of our financial planning. Bob is wise, a man of
integrity, generous in his dedica on to us. He has guided
several provincials and treasurers through the intricacies of
bo om lines, capital gains, and ethical investments. Bob has
been the enabler of our ministry and our re rement plans.
At the dinner Sister Cathy presented Bob with a cheque for
the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, an organiza on that supports
young people who work to become leaders of change in our
world. It is one of Bob’s favourite chari es. Sister Vera, who
has worked with Bob all of these 22 years thanked him in our
name.
It was a great evening – a great dinner, great friendship,
great joy, and greatest gra tude. God is good!
3
Célébration jubilaire pour Sœurs
Mary Gorman et Yolande Marion
Message présenté par Sœurs
Marylyn Gibney et
Léonne Dumesnil
Le 7 aout 2012
élèves de 5 ans, toute la journée, et le matériel
didac que réduit au minimum. J’ai vu ce e
femme ingénieuse aller trouver dans les rejets de
Canadian Publishers assez de bouts de cartons, de
feuilles de papier ou des rouleaux de papier pour
en faire des feuilles 8 X 11. Quand elle manquait
de papier, elle se lançait dans le français oral : les
comp nes « pomme de raine e et pomme d’api,
les caro es c’est pour Charlo e » et plus tard le
Pe t Prince de St‐Exupéry. Et ainsi sa maisonnée
était très heureuse!
Léonne : Marylyn, as‐tu lu le livre des Proverbes dernièrement? Marylyn : Yes, I have. It is one of my favourite readings in the Hebrew Scriptures. Léonne : Moi aussi je l’ai lu, mais, en français… et
j’ai trouvé un trésor dans le dernier chapitre; soit
la descrip on éclairante de la femme extraordi‐
naire, appelée maîtresse de maison. Je me suis
même a ardée à le relire deux fois afin de le com‐
prendre et de le placer dans un contexte plus con‐
nu, plus familier. Et toi? Marylyn : “Her work praises her at the city gates”. Spending a life me in our Catholic
schools, Mary is a true daughter of Mother Marie
Rose, educa ng in the faith with a real concern
for those who are marginalized. Working in SMA
archives, she con nues to delight in stories of
‘our girls’. Students from li le St Mary’s Cathedral
school recently had a reunion and, of course,
Mary had to be there. As one person says, Mary
lives love. She has the ability to make the student
feel important and to recognize their worth. She
certainly could empathize with those far more
interested in the gym. I wonder why that would
be?
Marylyn : Interes ng! In that Proverbs asks: Who
can find a valiant woman? No problem as far as I
am concerned…Not only can I find one, but 2 auto‐
ma cally come to mind. I’ll give you mine, if you
give me yours or let’s do it together.
Yolande Marion and Mary Gorman Léonne : J’ai vu concrètement et même en cou‐
leurs ce e femme vaillante, même si l’on n’em‐
ploie pas souvent ce qualifica f.
« Elle est pareille à des vaisseaux marchands, de loin elle apporte ses vivres ». C’est gros ça des
vaisseaux, on n’en trouve pas le long de la Rivière‐
rouge! Mais la personne bien accomplie peut,
être elle‐même, un beau vaisseau avec des quali‐
tés humaines, du poten el et de l’énergie. Je
m’arrête à un fait : une classe de maternelle, 52
Léonne : Il y a beaucoup de chaleur physique et
de chaleur humaine dans ce texte : On porte de
double vêtement, on ne craint pas la neige.
4
Yolande a porté dans sa jeunesse un pe t sous‐vêtement qu’on appelait un pe t cor c’était le double
vêtement de l’époque! Avec les années, ce e chaleur physique s’est métamorphosée en chaleur hu‐
maine et en rela ons humaines. On dit de la femme excep onnelle : « Elle rit du jour à venir »… ma per‐
sonne vaillante rit tous les jours et plusieurs fois par jour et parfois jusqu’aux larmes et ainsi elle fait rire
toutes les personnes autour d’elle. Et pour faire sourire à distance, elle envoie des cartes bien choisies
pour souligner toutes les circonstances importantes et ainsi semer du bonheur.
Marylyn : Like the valiant woman who fears the Lord, so does Mary. She holds our great God in awe and
delights in the beauty of crea on and God’s goodness. Her Irish faith stems from hardy Irish stalk and is
nurtured through her prayer and her fidelity to God’s word.
Léonne : La femme des Proverbes « a sur sa langue une doctrine de piété », je ne suis pas cer‐
taine de comprendre ça parfaitement mais je sais
que Yolande, que je connais, a appris le français
dès sa jeunesse et tant qu’à la piété ou la spiritua‐
lité, je sais que sa mère lui lisait des extraits de la
vie de Sainte‐Thérèse avant même qu’elle com‐
mence l’école. Quelle prépara on éloignée pour
les livres spirituels du noviciat! Et ça n’arrête pas
là, aujourd’hui, au moment où je vous parle, elle lit
du Maurice Zundel, un bouquin de 400 + pages.
Elle aussi lu Le Jésus qui riait, signe que sa spiritua‐
lité est bien équilibrée!
Marylyn : “Strength and dignity are her clothing…
she opens her mouth to wisdom and the teaching
of kindness is on her tongue”. How o en have we
seen this over the years? How many boards, think
tanks, and commi ees has she been on? She is
thorough in her research. She consults, going a er
the exper se. She is willing to share her wisdom
and recognizes the wisdom of others. Kindness,
too, is on her tongue. She’s one of the goodest
people I know. Never have I heard her speak an
unkind word! Oops! I take that back. Her own MP
and our present Prime Minister have actually driv‐
en her to this.
Léonne : Et le texte biblique termine en disant:
« La femme qui craint le Seigneur, voilà celle qu’il se doit d’être félicitée ». YOLANDE nous te félici‐
tons pour tes 60 ans de profession religieuse.
Pour ta fidélité, ta générosité, ta chaleur humaine,
ta voie personnelle de rencontrer ton Dieu, ta con‐
tribu on à notre Congréga on et à notre province.
Nous levons nos verres et nous te souhaitons, le
bonheur et de beaux clins d’œil de Jésus qui
riait!!! En riant, ensemble, disons YOLANDE.
Marylyn : It is true, your works praise you at the
city gates, here in the province and in our congre‐
ga on. For 60 years you’ve been there, Mary, tried
and true. Congratula ons! Well done, good and
faithful one. MARY
5
Justice & Peace Network July 2012
Josephine Chudzik, SNJM There were 23 Sisters and Associates as delegates
to our mee ng in Los Gatos, CA. Others, who lived
in the area, were invited to hear speakers, and for
other special events.
The opening ritual, prepared by our Manitoba Jus‐
ce and Peace Commi ee, was well appreciated.
The theme of the network mee ng was immigra‐
on, refugee, and aboriginal issues. Our ritual in‐
corporated aboriginal themes – the four direc‐
ons: east, south, west, north–and sky/earth. We
were able to perform the cleansing ritual out‐
doors. Luce e Link presented the bowl with the
smoking sage as the par cipants cleansed them‐
selves.
Immigra on and Refugee issues at this me, with
Aboriginal Commi ee later, perhaps in two years.
Since our Corporate Stands, the network always
receives reports from provinces and mission cen‐
tres on work being done in the areas of Human
Trafficking and Water. This year we heard about
the hotel project in Quebec, the bo led water is‐
sue and the Lesotho Highlands’ Water Authority
Project.
Luce e Link, Associate, SNJM Thank you to the SNJMs for the opportunity and
the experience of mee ng, in Los Gatos, the indi‐
viduals whose voices I’d heard over the phone
lines during the telephone conferences last year.
At this last telephone conference, Saturday, Sep‐
tember 22, I found the dialogue so much more
personal and meaningful as I a ached a mental
picture to the person who I was speaking. Now, I
can relate to the personali es and passion of indi‐
viduals on a much more in mate level.
Our field trip to San José and the Catholic Chari es
of Santa Clara County was very informa ve. This is
a very ac ve Catholic Chari es with services in
specific areas. I noted that all doors, outside and
inside, could be opened by security codes only.
We also visited SIREN (Services, Immigrant Rights,
Educa on Network). Both of these agencies re‐
ceived a dona on from the Network.
We were blessed with great staff, great food and
great lodgings! We were at the Camp Morton of
Manitoba!
On Sunday, we celebrated Mass in the chapel with
the local community. This was followed by a short
session and an ou ng to Santa Cruz for supper.
Although our days were long and full with physi‐
cally, emo onally, mentally and psychologically
challenging social issues, the experiences of Los
Gatos were a reminder that if we all commit and
share the gi s and resources we and Mother Earth
One of our biggest decisions was how to set up a
new commi ee on Immigra on, Refugee, and Ab‐
original issues. Our decision was a commi ee for
6
have to offer and we all look beyond ourselves to
make someone else’s life happy and fulfilled,
there can be change and a recogni on that any‐
thing is possible.
American Pet Products Associa on, in 2007 U.S.
households spent $39.1 Billion on pet products and
pet care.
Daniel Groody shared in his DVD that when driving
By apprecia ng and being thankful, we can join
into a dangerous situa on, his friend noted they
forces to create a Los Gatos and Camp Morton for should help one of the migrants. He responded
others; some of which are House of Peace,
“he had work to do and people to save!” His friend
Rossbrook House, Our Place/Chez‐Nous, The Bell then reminded him that this migrant was the face
Hotel and Micah House.
of Jesus! We must be vigilant and be present to
th
On Sunday a ernoon, July 15 , I had the pleasure opportuni es that present themselves. Groody
said the Theology of Migra on is that: “God so
of mee ng Sr. Lorna Cooney at Villa Maria del
Mar, Santa Cruz, an SNJM non‐profit retreat cen‐ loved the world, He migrated back to His Father.”
tre that welcomes people of all faiths. The views Discipleship is migra ng with Christ as a people.
God is greater than the walls we can construct!
of Monterey Bay are incredible. Good food and
When Jesus invited everyone to the table, he invit‐
good company were the order of the day! We
ed even the rejected. Our job is to break down the
were at the Chalet Marie Rose of Manitoba!
walls; one day these walls will fall. I have to give
On speaking about Immigra on Fr. John Pedigo
back what I was given. I am only a steward.
stated that the White House, the South, the whole
con nent was built by illegal immigra on through My experience gave me the encouragement to
use of kidnapping, torture, rape and fear and that heed Mother Marie Rose’s passion: “I have come
to cast fire and how I wish it were already flam‐
immigra on is the root of agriculture, construc‐
ing!” and to “Bumbele la” which in Lesotho means
on and service industries .Daniel Groody said
interviews with immigrants expressed their deep‐ “Never Give Up!”
est pain as: “When people treat you like a dog;
Daniel Groody’s ques on is poignant and he leaves
like you are no one! Nothing! No one cares” And
us to ponder: “Did you know you could miss Heav‐
may I add that in North America being treated like en by 18 inches…The distance between the head
a dog may be a step up; that according to the
and the heart…
7
“I am a part of all that I have met…” (Inter…Inter…Inter!) Carol Peloquin, SNJM My travels this spring included a stop in Portland to visit Sr. Joanne
Sullivan. I arrived three days a er she died. My next stop was Spo‐
kane to a end Sr. Miriam Pon eri’s 90th birthday celebra on. Two
such milestone events, occurring just a week apart in the lives of two
women who have so exemplified our Chapter call to interdepend‐
ence, led me to reflect upon their 40 year old rela onship with our
Province. I remember how, in 1972, personally directed retreats
grounded in Scripture suddenly appeared on the horizon, with Fa‐
ther Armand Nigro, S.J., a charisma c catalyst, finding and forming
SNJM facilitators. Sr. Helene Rousseau, our Provincial, was eager to
provide Manitoba sisters with opportuni es for spiritual growth.
Many events occurred in rapid succession. At Christmas, 1973, Sr.
Joanne arrived in Manitoba. She had accepted Sr. Helene’s invita on
to direct retreats and offer scripture courses. During the summer of
1974 Father Nigro and Sr. Miriam headed up a retreat team that
offered Manitoba sisters an 8 day personally directed retreat. The
following July, many Manitoba SNJMs headed to Portland for a 30
day directed retreat. Amazingly, Miriam and Joanne’s involvement
with Manitoba took root! Sisters and Associates have con nued to
make their way to Marian Hall and Immaculate Heart for retreats
over the years. And these two SNJM friends and mentors have re‐
turned to Manitoba to facilitate retreats, renew acquaintances, re‐
main connected. Thank you, God, for inter…inter…interdependence!
Fr. Armand Nigro, S.J. with Sr. Miriam
Pon eri at 30‐day directed retreat in
Portland, Oregon, Summer, 1974
SNJM 1974 30 Day Retreatants, Directors, Workers: Row 1 (l to r): Srs. Stephen Francis, Aurore Berard, Rose‐
Eliane, Ann Margaret, Rose Teresa, Rose Paye e, M. Pauline. Row 2: Srs. Alice Konefall, Simone Damphousse,
Berthe‐Valcourt (Dir.), Marguerite Lemoine, Mary Terence, Eva Claire, Jeanne Jacob, Claire LaFrance, Anne Marie
Jobin, Anne Onhaiser, Maria Prenovault, Maria Carignan, Simone Parent. Row 3: Srs. Helene Chaput, Lorraine St.
Hilaire, (Fr. Armand Nigro, SJ), Rolande Joyal (Dir) Laura Gosselin, Gabrielle Chenard, Patricia Doyle, Patricia Atkins,
Louise Van Belleghem, Edith Grenier (W), Emily Finlayson (W), Paule e Martel (W), Alice Parent (Dir.)
8
Sr. M. Gorman with Sr. Joanne, 1974
Sr. Joanne, 1921‐2012
Cards with Sr. Edith Patricia, Camp Morton 1984
Sr. Joanne Sullivan suffered a heart a ack in mid‐May. Eager
for Heaven, she pleaded with Mary to come for her before
the end of May. Mary must have listened for Joanne died
on Saturday, May 26, just one hour before midnight. Her
friend, Sr. Cecilia Ranger, in her funeral eulogy summed up
Joanne: “How do you capture a moonbeam? The beams of
her faith, goodness, quirky sense of humour, generosity, and
apprecia on of the beau ful have shone on many people
during her 94 years.” Enjoy Heaven, Joanne. Remember,
you promised to pray for those of us s ll journeying.
Sr. Miriam Pon eri’s 90th birthday celebra on at Convent of
the Holy Names was as deligh ul as Miriam herself. Her
June 3 birthday landed on Sunday’s Feast of the Holy Trinity,
and everyone was pleased to learn that Father Nigro would
be con‐celebra ng at Eucharist. Sisters, friends, family mem‐
bers, and spiritual directees , in a endance at the a ernoon
celebra on, enjoyed perusing photos of our birthday lady
taken over the years and listening to familiar songs crea ve‐
ly tailored to fit Miriam. What a privilege to be present for
such a lovely occasion!
Down me with Sr. Miriam at Camp Morton a er a summer retreat, 1988
9
Sr. Miriam with Sr. Mary Farley
Rainbow Stage with Sr. Marylyn
ADIEU! ADIEU BEAU LAC!
THANKS FOR CHALET MARIE ROSE!
Photos by Marylyn Gibney, SNJM
September 15, 2012, le l5 septembre
«Venez à l’écart, dans un lieu désert et reposez‐vous un
peu.
Venez à moi vous qui êtes fa guées…Vous trouverez le
repos.» M . 11, 28
“Be s ll and know that I am God.”
Listen to the sound of silence.
10
11
Micah House Celebration At Bishop Weisgerber’s request, Michael
Rennie, a Micah House Board Member,
organized a wonderful gathering for Sis‐
ter Johanna as she re res. Well over one
hundred people gathered to celebrate:
family, friends, people from the street,
Holy Names’ Sisters and Associates,
Board Members, jus ce reps, people
from Artbeat, The North End Women’s
Centre, members of religious communi‐
es, the diaconate, clergy, C.W.L., many
parishioners from both the city and the
rural areas.
Johanna Jonker, SNJM, Her vision, crea vity, and hard work embodied the words of Micah. Ten years ago Archbishop James Weis‐
gerber asked Johanna to begin a Catho‐
lic Centre for Social Jus ce in the Archdi‐
ocese of Winnipeg. Her vision, crea vity,
and hard work embodied the words of
Micah: to act justly, to love tenderly,
and to walk humbly with her God. It was
then that Micah House was born. Arch‐
bishop James saw fit to present Johanna
with the Pro Ecclesia et Pon fice medal,
one of the highest awards given to a
person in the church.
Photos, ar cle by Marylyn Gibney and Catherine Laviole e, SNJMs
September 13, 2012
Sculpture, Independence, and
Pro Ecclesia et Pon fice medal
Johanna Jonker came from an Immi‐
grant family and already at the age of 10, knew what it was like to be a new‐
comer in a foreign culture. She didn’t speak English and she and her family coped through difficult mes, as many whom she has journeyed with through her ministry, have also coped. Sister Cathy Laviole e spoke of Johanna
during the short formal program. Her
words echoed in the hearts of all of us.
The following are excerpts of her
presenta on:
Over the years, Johanna served in many parochial schools both as teacher and principal, including St. John Brebeuf and St. Gerard. She blessed our Academy of St. Mary’s with years of teaching, always a en‐
ve to educa ng the whole person. Her ministry as co‐coordinator and “Woman a er God’s own heart …She who walks the talk …Gospel Woman in Solidarity for Libera ng Ac on! 12
Associate Lucille Bart spoke on behalf of the many
groups with whom Johanna worked and presented
Johanna with the sculpture, Interdependence,
which had been commissioned by the Archdiocese
and created by an Artbeat volunteer.
teacher at Rising Sun, an alterna ve high school for aboriginal youth, is s ll treasured, and as a one of her friends of Rossbrook said “Rising Sun has never been the same! "Over the years, her compassion for the vulnerable among us grew. This desire to walk among them and to serve them brought her to Micah House, where the passion and vision in her heart for a Just World inspired many to ac on throughout our archdio‐
cese and beyond. Some examples would be: the Just Faith program, two Jus ce Conferences, reg‐
ular thought‐provoking ar cles in the New Wine Press, talks, retreats and pilgrimages. And, at Micah House, despite her busy days, many would drop in, especially those who were struggling. Johanna welcomed each and everyone equally; she listened to them, fed them; she gave them a quiet interlude from street life and many became her friends.” Bishop James concluded the formal part of the
program. His pride in the work of Micah House and
his friendship and respect for Johanna were evi‐
dent. He could not contain his delight in presen ng
Johanna with the Pro Ecclesia et Pon fice medal.
In conclusion, I repeat Sister Cathy’s words:
“Thank you, Johanna, for being Christ’s presence to our world and a model and beacon to those of us who struggle to be jus ce‐makers… Thank you for keeping alive the spirit of Blessed Marie‐Rose, our foundress, who in her day, chose to serve the li le ones. Thank you for being vulnerable enough to share with us your ongoing passion for a be er world. Sister Cathy presented Johanna with a rose on
behalf of us Holy Names sisters and associates.
This was followed by a blessing.
We love you and with great gra tude, we cele‐
brate the ways your have generously shared your gi s! Congratula ons, Johanna! 13
JOURNÉE DE RETRAITE le 8 août
Armande Leclair, personne associée
C’était une superbe journée ensoleillée—non pas seule‐
ment un soleil brillant et chaud à l’extérieur mais aussi
un « soleil » accueillant et chaud à l’intérieur en la per‐
sonne de S. Lorna Cooney du bureau du charisme ainsi
que les sœurs et les personnes associées réunies pour
une journée de retraite centrée sur l’appel d’Eulalie et
l’appel de chacune. S. Lorna nous a guidé tout au long
de la journée sur ce focus en s’inspirant de la spirituali‐
té cel que, une spiritualité qui existe depuis très long‐
temps mais qui a été perdue dans le monde occidental.
Les prières étaient elles aussi des textes d’influence cel‐
que. La journée s’est déroulée avec 3 sessions cha‐
cune suivie de temps de prière personnelle et/ou ré‐
flexion à l’aide de texte.
Voici quelques « p’ ts bouts » parmi plusieurs recueillis
pendant ce e retraite qui pour moi méritent d’être re‐
tenus précieusement et mis en pra que à l’exemple
d’Eulalie :
Dieu est présent dans toute notre vie.
Dieu était l’énergie d’Eulalie.
Eulalie était ouverte à Dieu.
Il faut voir le monde avec les yeux de Dieu.
Eulalie est un exemple d’amour en ac on.
Eulalie nous a laissé un héritage : contempla on et ac‐
on.
Chacun.e est appelé à l’amour.
Dieu pense à nous de toute l’éternité.
Commencer chaque jour avec un SOURIRE.
Ne jamais se lasser de la surprise d’ÊTRE ICI—nous
sommes appelés par Dieu d’être de ce monde.
Notre vie est un pèlerinage, aimons la route et non pas
seulement la des na on.
Recevoir/accepter les dons/cadeaux que j’ai besoin
pour ensuite être capable de donner les dons/cadeaux
que les autres ont besoin.
Rechercher la beauté dans tout.
Écouter le ba ement du cœur de Dieu.
Toute la vie est connectée.
Je souhaite que celles qui n’ont pu être parmi les par ‐
cipantes pour une raison ou une autre que ces quelques
pistes nourriront vos réflexions et vos ac ons.
Pour clôturer ce e journée inspirante chacune a reçu
de la main d’une autre personne une pe te bouteille
contenant de l’eau de la rivière Richelieu« Que l’eau de
ce contenant soit un rappel constant et significa f de
votre appel à vivre notre charisme SNJM, à devenir por‐
teuse d’une vie nouvelle! »
Quel beau geste!
Merci à Sr Lorna de nous avoir partagé son grand amour
et sa passion d’Eulalie et l’inspira on de la spiritualité
cel que au sujet de notre rela on à Dieu.
Merci aux sœurs pour l’accueil des personnes associées.
Sachez que ça fait chaud au cœur de faire par e de la
famille SNJM.
En arrière de chaque visage se trouve un moment d’éternité. (John O’Donohue)
14
RENCONTRES DES
Visite de Luce e Link, personne associée
PERSONNES ASSOCIÉES
Par : Paule e I. Verme e, personne associée
En septembre 2012, les sœurs SNJM et les personnes
associées de Saint‐Boniface et ensuite à Saint‐Jean‐
Bap ste ont entendu le partage des expériences de
bénévolat de Luce e Link, une nouvelle personne as‐
sociée, auprès des personnes ayant des besoins impor‐
tants. L’amour des voyages mais surtout son désir de
Elle fut inspirée par l’histoire de Craig Kielburger,
rendre services aux pauvres l’ont amené en Répu‐
l’auteur du best seller Free the Children. Luce e a par‐
blique de l'Équateur et aux Philippines. Une fois reve‐
cipé à deux évènements du mouvement We Day, à
nue au Manitoba, elle s’est interrogée : « Chez nous à Toronto et l’an passé à Winnipeg. Ce regroupement
Winnipeg, y a t’il des enfants qui vivent dans la pauvre‐
de jeunes personnes qui veulent changer le monde lui
té et comment pourrions nous les aider? » La réponse
a donné un élan pour croire que nous avons le Pou‐
fut Oui! Comme par cipante à We Day, elle a rencon‐
voir de changer la société.
tré une jeune d’une école de Winnipeg et Luce e s’est
La philosophie
mise en contact avec la travailleuse sociale de ce e
de Me to We encourage les par cipants à penser aux
école. En visitant l’école, Luce e se rend compte des
autres et d’agir. Luce e comprend le message. Elle
besoins des jeunes. Beaucoup vivent dans un milieu
s’implique auprès des sans‐ abri à Winnipeg : Our Place défavorisé donc leurs besoins primaires de nourriture
Chez Nous Drop‐In Centre. Cet endroit permet aux
ne sont pas sa sfaits pour diverses raisons. Souvent les
sans–abris d’avoir un endroit chaud où ils peuvent
jeunes n’ont pas déjeuné et ils n’ont pas l’argent pour
prendre un café et des colla ons, visiter avec des amis,
se payer un dîner chaud servi à l’école. Les jeunes qui
bavarder et de faire leur toile e en prenant une
demeurent à un kilomètre ou moins de l’école doivent
douche, se raser, ainsi que se vê r de nouveaux vête‐
marcher en hiver pour se rendre à l’école et ensuite
ments.
retourner chez eux pour le repas du midi, ensuite ren‐
Avec beaucoup de fierté, elle nous présente un livre
trer pour les classes de l’après‐midi! Les jeunes sont
des par cipants de cet endroit. En feuilletant les pages,
épuisés et ils ont encore plus faim. Luce e louange le
on voit les visages souriants de ses clients et chaque
personnel de l’école pour l’aide qu’il donne aux élèves.
par cipant partage deux mots qui leur sont chers. Lu‐
Un plan pour trouver des manteaux d’hiver est en
ce e s’est fait dire que se serait impossible de publier
marche.
ce livre. Les sans‐abris ne voudront pas y par ciper!
Luce e fut sensibilisée aux besoins des plus démunis
Déterminée, elle réalise ce projet. La voici avec son
en étant une représentante du comité de Jus ce des
livre rempli de photos en couleurs de ses nouveaux
SNJM du Manitoba. Elle apprend qu’il y a 215 000 000
amis de la rue Main. Le vieux dicton dit : « Quand on
jeunes dans le monde qui travaillent dans l’esclavage.
veut, on peut. » Luce
15
e en est la preuve!
Compte‐rendu de la rencontre du 7 juin Suite aux dernières rencontres des groupes de personnes associées francophones en mai
l’équipe s’est rencontrée le 7 juin à la Résidence Despins pour faire un retour sur l’année 2011‐
2012 et préparer le calendrier 2012‐2013.
par Armande Leclair,
personne associée
Toutes, nous é ons d’accord qu’il y a eu un grand
progrès dans les partages, plus spontané et plus per‐
sonnel. C’est important d’avoir une bonne variété dans
le programme ainsi que la par cipa on aux ac vités et
des ac ons des snjm. Une invitée, Luce e Link asso‐
ciée nous a parlé avec passion de ses ac vités et ses
ac ons dans le domaine de la jus ce sociale, exemple
Me to We. Elle a accepté de faire ce même partage
aux rencontres de septembre.
Des inquiétudes exprimées par l’équipe furent le re‐
crutement (la relève) et les absences aux rencontres
mensuelles.
Nous terminons le pèlerinage en 2012‐2013 donc en
mai nous ferons l’évalua on de celui‐ci avec les
groupes.
Notre grand souhait serait de voir chacune des per‐
sonnes associées capable de se rendre aux rencontres
ainsi que de voir des nouveaux visages. Lancez des invi‐
ta ons.
Bonne année 2012‐2013.
L’équipe : Lise Hamelin, Paule e Martel, Armande
Leclair, Luce e Link (invitée), Srs Marguerite Mulaire,
Hélène Rousseau, et Jeannine Verme e
Réunion communautaire à la Résidence Despins le 29 septembre 2012
Par Denise Gareau, personne associée  Trois jeunes de SMA qui sont allées au Réseau des
écoles à Sea le nous ont raconté leur expérience.
Elles étaient accompagnées de leur professeure Ce‐
cilia Wojczik. L’avant‐midi s’est terminé avec le re‐
nouvellement des engagements chaque personne
aux prises de posi ons collec ves en lien avec l’eau
et le trafic humain. La réunion a débuté par un chant Michée, ‘Micah’, com‐
posé par Jeannine Verme e, snjm
Thèmes de la réunion :
En ma née : Jus ce et Paix: plusieurs présenta ons:
 Sr Josephine Chudzik et Luce e Link, nous ont parta‐
gé leur expérience à la réunion du Réseau Jus ce et
paix qui a eu lieu à Los Gatos, en Californie, en juillet
2012.
 Sœur Marylyn Gibney nous a éclairés au sujet de
Développement et paix et UNANIMA.
 Sœur Cathy Laviole e nous a parlé du TRC Transi on
Resource Center au Lesotho et de leurs projets. En
plus, elle nous a parlé de la situa on des immigrants
et réfugiés au Canada. Elle a lancé un défi à la prov‐
ince dans les deux domaines dont elle a parlé.
Après‐midi : Renouvellement des vœux et des pro‐
messes: Un temps de prière en lien avec l’Évangile de
Mathieu 25, nous a conduit au renouvellement des
promesses des associées et des vœux des religieuses.
Nous é ons une cinquantaine de sœurs et personnes
associées à la réunion et le tout s’est terminé dans une
atmosphère de joie et d’ami é. (photos à la page suivante)
Présenta on des jeunes de SMA
Photos par Marylyn Gibney, SNJM
16
Réunion communautaire à la Résidence Despins Le 29 septembre 2012 Celebration of Mother Marie-Rose
October 5, 2012
Marylyn Gibney, SNJM
Holy Names’ Sisters and Associates joined the
‘prayer pals’ from the different homerooms. We
community of St. Mary’s Academy to celebrate
were delighted with this intergenera onal experi‐
Mother Marie‐Rose. A lovely liturgy preceded
ence and can recognize in our girls that they are
the brunch served by the campus ministry team.
truly people of FIRE: Faith‐Integrity‐Respect‐
This gave us the opportunity to meet with our
Empathy.
Faith‐Integrity‐Respect‐Empathy.
Photos: Michelle Garlinski, Associate, SNJM
17
My Experience in the Yakima Valley this Summer June 15 to July 28, 2012
Michelle Garlinski, Associate, SNJM
"Some mes I need only to stand wherever I am
cans and the Mexicans. I also saw the hope that
to be blessed”.
Nuestra Casa, Heritage University, Marie Rose
This quote by the poet Mary Oliver sums up my
Center, Farm Workers Clinic and Toppenish Food
experience in the Yakima Valley this summer.
bank offers to the people in the Valley. The sense
Whether I was standing in Wapato with the Mexi‐
of community I experienced transcended any
can teachers and migrant children; or in Sunnyside cultural boundaries , which was life‐ giving for
with Marta, a woman from Costa Rica who was
me. The culture shock was not about languages
growing confidently in her English; or around the
or rituals, but accep ng that I am an Anglo and
dining room table breaking bread with the Sisters
middle class and I truly don't understand their
in the house ‐ I was indeed blessed! I had very few reality. However, it doesn't mean I can't walk with
expecta ons for my me away. I did have a few
them as they face their challenges and find their
hopes and admi edly, maybe even some fears.
voice. For me, being in the valley was a very real
Many have asked me, "why did you want to go
experience. It affirmed my values and gi s and
there"? Well, that is a 2 part answer. Following the stretched me in new and uncomfortable ways. I
33rd General Chapter last summer and it's invita‐
was so pleased that four students and a staff
on and challenge for us to live more "..inter, in‐
member from St. Mary's joined me in Toppenish
ter, inter" I asked myself what does that mean for
for a few days. It felt like I was sharing my home
me as an Associate? A er some thought and pray‐ with them!
er, I called up Sr. Kathleen Ross and asked if she
The ques on in my mind and heart all the way
would be wiling to entertain the idea of my coming back to Winnipeg was, what difference will this
to the valley to experience the SNJM sponsored/
experience make in my daily choices at work,
supported ministries and serve in some capacity.
home, with family, friends and strangers? God
There was no hesita on on the other end of the
only knows!
phone. Simply a YES we will make it work!
Why THERE as opposed to some other place where
SNJM s live and minister? I had the pleasure of
direc ng service learning programs in Yakima in
2003 and 2004 with youth and adults. There was
something about the region that touched me
deeply and called me back.
During my nearly 6 weeks in the Valley, I had
countless opportuni es to witness the Gospel and
SNJM charism fully alive in the Sisters and Associ‐
ates. I learned about some of the challenges and
injus ces being experienced by the Na ve Ameri‐
Michelle Garlinski SNJMA, with the Sisters at Kateri House
in Toppenish WA : Kathleen Ross, Marina Rose Parisi ,
Michelle Garlinski, and Mary Louise DiJulio.
18
…Nousrecommandonsàvosprières
KindlyRememberinyourPrayers
Sister Frances Madden, SNJM (Sister Anselm Mary) who departed this life on June 6, 2012 at Mary's Woods in
Lake Oswego, Oregon. Sister Frances had celebrated 93 years of life and 75 years of religious profession.
Sister Miriam Philip Friedrich, SNJM (Sister Henrie a T.) who departed this life on August 3, 2012
at Marie Rose Center, Mary’s Woods in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Sister Miriam Philip had celebrated 98 years of
life and 78 years of religious profession.
Sister Jeanne Morin, SNJM (Sister Carmelle‐Augusta) who departed this life on August 1, 2012 at St. Joseph's
Provincial House in Latham, NY. Sister Jeanne had celebrated 93 years of life and 70 years of religious profes‐
sion.
Sœur Claire Désilets (sœur M.‐Alice‐Thérèse) décédée à la Maison Jésus‐Marie à Longueuil, le 9 juillet 2012 à
l’âge de 96 ans dont 72 ans de profession religieuse.
Sœur Émilienne Ayo e (sœur Conrad‐Marie) décédée à la Maison Jésus‐Marie à Longueuil, le 7 juillet 2012 à
l’âge de 102 ans dont 73 ans de profession religieuse.
Sœur Marie‐Thérèse Boyer (sœur Marie‐de‐la‐Trinité) décédée à la Maison Jésus‐Marie à Longueuil, le 16 août
2012 à l’âge de 89 ans dont 68 ans de profession religieuse.
Sister Anne Dinneen, SNJM (Sister Michele Denise) who departed this life on August 29, 2012 at Convent of the
Holy Names in Los Gatos, California. Sister Anne had celebrated 73 years of life and 47 years of religious profes‐
sion.
Sœur Monique Pagé (sœur M. Reine‐Solange) décédée à la Maison Jésus‐Marie à Longueuil, le 31 août 2012 à
l’âge de 86 ans dont 67 ans de profession religieuse.
Sister Anne Dinneen, SNJM (Sister Michele Denise) who departed this life on August 29, 2012 at Convent of the
Holy Names in Los Gatos, California. Sister Anne had celebrated 73 years of life and 52 years of religious profes‐
sion.
Sister Ann Murphy (Sister Joan Elizabeth) who died at her residence, on September 5, 2012 at the age of 83
years and 60 years of religious profession.
Sister Patricia Nizic, SNJM (Sister M. Ann Chris ne) who departed this life on September 24, 2012 in Portland,
Oregon. Sister Pat had celebrated 80 years of life and 59 years of religious profession.
Claire Ainsley (M.‐Anne‐Aimée) who died at the Maison Jésus‐Marie in Longueuil, on September 27, 2012 at the age of 88 years and 67 years of religious profession.
Sœur Cécile Bernier (M.‐ Joseph‐Elzéar) décédée à la Maison Jésus‐Marie à Longueuil, le 7 octobre 2012 à l’âge
de 97 ans dont 77 ans de profession religieuse.
Sœur Fernande Gauthier (M.‐ Ernest‐Gérard) décédée à la Maison Jésus‐Marie à Longueuil, le 6 octobre 2012 à
l’âge de 92 ans dont 69 ans de profession religieuse.
19
ANNIVERSAIRES - BIRTHDAYS
NOVEMBRE/NOVEMBER
OCTOBRE/OCTOBER
6
Phyllis White
9
Chris Butterill
7
Sr. Evelyn Bocklage
10
Sr. Cathy Laviolette
Sr Adrienne Lévesque
16
Sr Jeannine Vermette
8
Patricia Bozyk
18
Sr Lorraine St-Hilaire
10
Roseann Judge
19
Joanne Singbeil
15
Sr Marguerite Lemoine
22
Kay Ahrens
16
Sr Simone Damphousse
25
Sr Pauline Saurette
Thérèse Vermette
Sr. Marylyn Gibney
19
Lise Hamelin
26
Nancy Militano
23
Christine Strutt
27
Sr Carmen Catellier
Louise Shand
JANVIER/JANUARY
DECEMBRE/DECEMBRE
3
Noelle Bowles
5
Sr. Mary Gorman
6
Lucille Sabourin
9
Célima Bruneau
Barbara Macdonell
8
Sr Yvonne Massicotte
20
Sr Rose Desrochers
22
Gina Hoe
31
12
Sr Alma Fontaine
14
Wilma Ledingham
17
Sr Corinne Chartier
Louise Danylchuk
21
Sr. Maria Ciccarelli
Joy Lussier
25
Denise Sabourin
Sr. Lesley Sacouman
28
Flora Gareau
29
Lucille Bart
20