a ADRIAN DOMINICAN SISTERS
SEEK TRUTH • MAKE PEACE • REVERENCE LIFE WINTER 2009
Adrian Dominicans Reflect on
Presidential Inauguration
Prioress Attends Ceremony in Washington
Our country experienced a great historical “Although we were bearers of the now
event in the inauguration of President infamous ‘purple tickets,’ Father Larry
Barack Obama, the first African Snyder and I were miraculously able to get
American President in U.S. his- into our designated area in time to witness
tory. Sister Donna Markham, Joe Biden and Barack Obama take the oath
OP, Prioress, was invited to of office. Larry is the President of CCUSA
attend the Inauguration because and I currently serve as Chair of the
of her position as Chair of the National Board. After an uneventful ride on
National Board of Catholic the Metro, we found ourselves relegated to a
Charities USA (CCUSA). two-mile-long sea of purple ticket holders in
Following is her reflection on a tunnel under the river and, having stood
her experience. In addition, we there for over an hour with no movement,
asked our Sisters and Associates decided to get out and take our chances to
worldwide for their reflections find another way to the security gate.
on this occasion. Some of their Fortunately, we were able to find the gate
Sister Donna at the inauguration in
responses follow. and stand in a somewhat smaller mass of
Washington, D.C.
humanity (perhaps a hundred thousand or
(See “Inauguration” on page 2)
Adrian Dominicans Meet Diverse
Needs on Northern Frontier
Answering the “call to mission” to serve that are Anchorage. With wandering moose
where the needs are greatest, four Adrian and days of limited sunlight, the
Dominicans ventured to Anchorage. The Anchorage area encompasses
Inside Anchorage contingent includes: Sister Ann some 138,985 square miles
Romayne Fallon, OP; Sister Lorraine known as South-central
Reaume, OP; Sister Jacqueline (Jackie) Alaska. It is geographi-
6-7 Stoll, OP, and Sister Josephine (Jo) cally challenging
Jubilarians Gaugier, OP. The four have been able to terrain with a
grow and learn while ministering severe climate.
and living in community.
8-9
They were soon to discover
Professions
the many mysteries (See “Northern Frontier” on page 3)
10
Associates
11
Preaching
(“Inauguration,” continued from page 1)
so!) and crushed our way to the event to witness surrounded by so was there when the world
gate. We made our way sprinting many people of limited income, changed!’ It was the millions of
to the standing section just and yet people of hope and faith. people of all races, standing in
behind the Senators’ families and the cold for hours, shoulder to
“One of the moms I serve
guests, where we did have a view shoulder in peace and hope,
remarked, ‘Just think. In 1955
of the stage. knowing that their only view
Rosa Parks (for whom our youth would be a giant TV screen (if
“Being part of this historical event program is named) couldn’t sit in they were lucky) but satisfied and
was absolutely thrilling. Strangers the front of a bus. Today an joyful that they would always be
were hugging each other and most African American man is sitting able to say, ‘I was there.’ What a
of us wept when the final words of in the oval office as president of gift to every American to have
the oath were uttered and the the United States.’ The hopes of lived to see this day!”
cannons were fired. It is hard to generations have been realized. A
imagine a crowd of millions so vision has come true.” – Sister Margaret Heinz, OP,
happy and so generally respectful Adrian, Michigan
– Sister Nancyann Turner, OP,
of one another. Later in the after- “With anticipation and pride I
Livonia, Michigan
noon we joined a reception with invited Father Ed Ruane, OP,
leaders from other not-for-profit “I gathered with Adrian
Vicar of the Order residing at
groups. No tickets to the inaugural Dominican friends to watch the
Santa Sabina, to watch the tele-
balls, however. Just as well, since inaugural but it was really later,
vised ceremony from my commu-
alone, while watching the TV
we had likely already walked ten nity at Villa Rosa here in Rome. I
coverage of this historic event
miles that day!” have heard impressions of people
that I was moved to tears.
– Sister Donna Markham, OP, Listening to countless personal of many different nationalities
Prioress, Adrian, Michigan stories about what this movement who also looked forward to this
day with an ‘out-
“At Detroit’s pouring of hope’ for
Capuchin Soup ‘engagement’ with
Kitchen a rather the world, trans-
small TV set with parency, and con-
borrowed rabbit ears cern for justice for
and rows and rows all peoples. It seems
of plastic dining
Nancyann Margaret Rose Ann Maria Goretti
like a dream! And
Turner, OP Heinz, OP Schlitt, OP Browne, OP
room chairs were may it come true!”
arranged for viewing
the events of January 20. – Sister Rose Ann
meant in the lives of ordinary Schlitt, OP, Santa Sabina, Rome,
From early morning, probably people, many from the Black
300 people ate meals and then Italy
community, made me aware of
stayed to view the proceedings. how little I have understood the “Yesterday, I had an unexpected
Black experience in America. invitation to witness the inaugu-
The audience was mostly African
I’ve attended workshops and pro- ration at the Shiloh Baptist
American men with just a few of
grams on this subject but it was a Church in Lexington’s center
us women. For all of us, there was
Black father, choked with tears, city. The day began with prayer
a great sense of positive energy,
hardly able to speak saying that at the church, led by several of
pride and hope. Viewers danced, the local ministers, including a
now he could really tell his young
cried, cheered, hugged and, some- Catholic sister with whom I had
son, ‘You can be whatever you
times, fell silent as they watched want to be, even President of the gone to the church. Then we
Barack Obama become president United States,’ that opened my went to another room and were
of the United States. Our home- eyes and heart. It was the young able to witness the D.C. festivi-
town favorite, Aretha Franklin, mother, holding a child in her ties on a giant screen. The audi-
did not disappoint. Folks actually arms while several siblings clung ence was a group of 50 - 75
stood as the oath of office was to her skirt, who said she drove homeless people who had come
administered and rousing across the country because it was from the Catholic Action Center.
applause gave affirmation to the so important to her that her chil- They were so excited and happy -
2
inaugural speech. It was a great dren be able to say later in life, ‘I and proud! The cheering was
(continued on next page)
(“Inauguration,” continued from page 2)
contagious and there were several ty of our DR people are mulato as God was doing a ‘new thing.’ I
occasions we all rose to our feet!” is our new president. It made me saw that peace was possible and
– Sister Maria Goretti Browne, OP, proud of the USA in a new way people everywhere were reaching
Lexington, Kentucky and, despite the challenges he out to one another in love.
“We experienced this wonderful
event glued to our TV in
Northern Manitoba on the Cree
Nation Reserve. The people here
knew how excited we were. They
are impressed with Barack’s sincer-
Carol Sue Ellen Jeanine
ity and have also commented that
Gross, OP Gardner, OP Kennedy, OP Boivin, OP
he seems to be a spiritual person
with good leadership ability.”
– Sisters Sue Gardner, OP, and faces, I believe inauguration day President Obama’s speech was so
Ellen Kennedy, OP, Nelson House, was a celebration of hope.” inclusive! It’s almost like he used
Manitoba, Canada our Mission Statement for his
– Sister Carol Gross, OP, Santo
“I watched the inauguration here outline! I have new hope for our
Domingo, Dominican Republic
in the Dominican Republic with country and I am once more
Sister Ana Feliz, OP. We have “I felt connected to the whole proud to be an American, but we
agreed here that Barack Obama world as joy and hope spread on have much work to do!”
looks ‘Dominican,’ and why every face. It was a time of prayer – Sister Jeanine Boivin, OP,
shouldn’t he, because the majori- and emotion as I realized that Warren, Michigan a
(“Northern Frontier,” continued from page 1)
Each of the sisters felt a very per- Ann explained. She called the “At the suggestion of one of the
sonal call that compelled her to parents, asking if they were will- pastors we held town hall meet-
share her very unique gifts in ing to serve on a committee to ings,” Sister Ann explained. “We
response to the needs of the determine if this was what people had meetings at each parish. At
Anchorage community. wanted. The committee, made up the smallest parish we had 100
Mission to Education of representatives from the three people.” The town hall meetings
parishes, was formed. After an kept the momentum heading in
As the first Adrian Dominican to
initial survey and phone calls to the right direction. Sister Ann
arrive in Anchorage, Sister Ann
area families, the Committee and her team focused on whether
Fallon’s impact on the communi-
received 900 responses in favor of to build, or find an existing build-
ty was almost instant. As an edu-
starting a new school. They had ing to rent or renovate.
cation consultant, her initial task
only scratched the surface of The Holy Spirit kept moving the
was to open a diocesan office to
what would evolve into a whirl- team forward. A few days after
support the three Catholic
wind project. To get the ball the town hall meetings, one of
schools in the Anchorage com-
rolling, the local paper ran a the women who had attended
munity. Two weeks after opening
feature on their plans for a contacted Sister Ann with an
the office, Archbishop Roger
new school. idea for the school building. The
Schwietz, OMI, told Sister Ann
that people had woman suggested
expressed a need a small strip mall
for a new school in that was for sale
the valley. in the area. Sister
Ann and the con-
“The valley is about
struction crew
one hour from
3
took a look at the
Anchorage,” Sister
five-store strip
Originally a strip mall, Our
(continued on
Lady of the Valley School now next page)
houses a library, classrooms a
computer lab and offices.
Father Luzvimindo Flores (Fr. Luz to
everyone), pastor of Our Lady of the
Lake in Big Lake, during Catholic
Schools Week in the Our Lady of the
Valley school chapel.
Sister Jackie, is wearing The shelter clinic is set up to pro-
multiple hats in her call vide urgent care. “We deal with a
(“Northern Frontier,” continued from page 3) to service. Her key min- lot of colds, flu and wound infec-
mall with stores that were not istries include: part-time tions,” she explained. “The goal
connected. Sister Ann saw the coordinator/nurse practitioner at is to prevent individuals from
potential. They contacted an Brother Francis Shelter; Nurse going to emergency rooms. This
architect and the owner of the Practitioner for the Parish population has little or no access
strip mall. As luck would have it, Nursing Program; and to clinics. Because hospitals are
the owner was willing to lease the Administrative Coordinator for not accessible, others wait until
property. He was also a profes- the Safe Environment Program care need is critical.”
sional contractor and took over (as mandated by U.S. Conference Her skills as a nurse practitioner
the construction. With the selec- of Catholic Bishops to ensure have also made a great fit in the
tion of the location and the con- safety for children). Parish Nursing Program. “The
tractor, construction began. The ultimate goal in Anchorage focus is on physical, mental, and
Fund-raising has become a full- is to foster and enable people spiritual health,” she said. “It is a
time effort for Sister Ann. “This within the archdiocese to take grassroots level of bringing spiri-
diocese is poor,” she explained. over and lead the ministries. tuality into the overall picture of
But she discovered that she is sur- Sister Jackie feels that the Adrian health. It continues the healing
rounded by very resourceful indi- Dominican team has been blessed of Jesus in the parishes.”
viduals. They discovered a foun- to be able to work with individu- As the coordinator of the
dation that could pay for some of als in the community who Anchorage Safe Environment
the construction costs. “The embrace the collaborative efforts Program, Sister Jackie conducts
woman in the Development to develop the ministries. background checks on clergy, reli-
Department prepared a grant Sister Jackie’s service to the gious employees, and volunteers
request for $100,000 with a homeless community has and offers training on sexual
restriction that we would match enriched the Brother Francis abuse, reporting, and boundaries.
the funds,” she explained. “My Shelter, which can sleep 250 Developing Future Lay Leaders
friends and acquaintances were adults a night. Sister Jackie
interested in what was going on Answering the call to work in
ministers here as a part-time
in Anchorage and made dona- Anchorage was a natural exten-
coordinator and nurse practition-
tions. I told them that we had sion of Sister Jo Gaugier’s previ-
er. The second shelter serves
$60,000 already, and if we had ous work in faith formation.
women and children.
another $40,000 we would get “Some of the needs corresponded
Sister Jackie has felt compelled to with my own experience,” Sister
the match.” With the help of
serve the homeless for some time. Jo explained. “I had always been
many senior citizens and interest-
She sees patients two days a in Michigan teaching and
ed parties, the construction was
week, supplementing the doctor’s involved in lay leadership. The
paid for in full. The school
twice-monthly visits. needs in Alaska called me.”
opened on August 20, 2007, less
than three months after the “This may seem limited but it is (continued on next page)
groundbreaking. more than they would have
otherwise,” she explained.
In their first year Our Lady of the
“Within the last six
Valley Catholic School welcomed
months most of the serv-
42 youngsters in pre-K through
ices and health centers
seventh grade. With construction
were affected by govern-
complete and school in session,
ment cuts.”
the final steps included develop-
ing the support system necessary “The main resources
to sustain the school. have gone away,”
she added. “We
Ministering to the Homeless
are working with
The experience and talents other service
among the Adrian Dominican providers to
team mirror the needs of the help meet the
4
Anchorage community. Sister needs.”
Jacqueline Stoll, better known as
Sister Jackie with a
patient at Brother Francis
Shelter in Anchorage
(“Northern Frontier,” continued from page 4)
Photo: Pam Kyzer
ties and mentor new lay with non like-minded persons. It
leaders to develop pro- has been a good opportunity to
grams that become learn to just be patient. Be pro-
ongoing and lasting. fessional.”
Ministering to a Multi- Sister Lorraine has found that her
Cultural Community ministry is one of dialogue. The
The opportunity to various cultures produce dialogues
preach and serve in a between people of different theo-
multi-cultural environ- logical and political beliefs. She
ment resonated with has been a part of a number of
Sister Lorraine Reaume. meetings to discuss differences
Some of her responsibili- respectfully.
ties include Rite of One of her newest projects
Christian Initiation of
includes Faith in Action. As a
Sister Jo, second from left,with Scripture and Leadership
Adults and sacramental
Training (SALT) group in Anchorage
Board member she works with
preparation. As pastoral
members of 15 other congrega-
associate and key repre-
Bringing more than 20 years of tions from different Christian
sentative of the Hispanic min-
experience in faith formation, istry, she has been building an groups, responding to the needs
Sister Jo focused on developing infrastructure to support the of the people in each respective
new lay leaders for the archdio- Hispanic community’s experience community.
cese. Her faith formation initia- at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish. The ministries that have been
tives in the past year included the refined and created at the hands
Sister Lorraine’s interest in serv-
development of Scripture and of the Adrian Dominicans will
ing the Hispanic community
Leadership Training (SALT). long serve the population. The
began with her missionary work
During the first year, SALT wel- in Bolivia. “I loved the language people of Anchorage have left a
comed 25 participants at two and culture of Bolivia,” she said. lasting impression on the Adrian
sites. “This year we started two Dominicans as well. “I was
“I yearn for that experience of
additional sites using teams of amazed at the generosity of so
learning from each other. It is
people who participated the first many people who are happy we
like Our Lady bringing people
Photo: Ron Nicholl
year,” Sister Jo said. “The
together. We can honor
response to the SALT program
has been heartening. I have each other’s differences
enjoyed working with lay leaders and become better people.”
who are so enthused.” The first Sister Lorraine’s words
year of the program has also pro- reflect a passion for creat-
duced a participant who has ing a community based on
become a co-coordinator. This faith, trust and respect. As
has been an important step in the point person on the
growing the program. staff representing the
SALT is just one offering through Hispanic community,
the archdiocese, however. In con- Sister Lorraine is busy as
junction with Seattle University, the member of several
Sister Lorraine serves as a Eucharistic minister at Our
some 17 adult laypeople are able committees and an
Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Anchorage
to study for a ministry degree via attendee of all Hispanic
on-line learning and monthly events.
classroom sessions offered Sister Lorraine has had a tremen-
through the Archdiocese. are here as a community,” said
dous impact on the multi-cultural
Sister Jo. “It is rewarding and
According to Sister Jo, life-long development within the parish.
heartening at the same time.”
faith formation is a goal for the She is quick to point out that her
Office of Evangelization. To that experience has helped her grow Karen Shellie, Detroit Dominican
end, she would like to find ways as well. “I am learning the deli- High School ’80, is a free-lance
5
to expand educational opportuni- cate balance in communicating writer from the Ann Arbor area. a
Diamond Jubile
A time of love
Of recalling memo
Of present-telling a
Of celebrating
Frances Anne Andrea
Barfield, OP Baxter, OP Broutin, OP Of gathering
Of seeking f
Of rememberin
Of giving t
continual liv
Thomas James Mary Elizabeth Joan Jean Madeline Mary – Lorrain
Burns, OP Crimmins, OP Delaplane, OP Denomme, OP Dervin, OP Gold
Elizabeth Grace Magdelaine Marie Jane Irene Jeanette
Flaherty, OP Flowers, OP Hill, OP Houle, OP Hutton, OP Jabour, OP
Betty Jean Marie Nelda Ann Mary Ann Joyce Patricia Anne
Jenkins, OP Jeziolkowski, OP Klein, OP Konieski, OP LaVoy, OP Lynch, OP
Aileen Catherine Anastasia Geraldine Mary Sharon
McClain, OP McKillop, OP McNichols, OP Megel, OP Moran, OP
Bernice Mary Louise Barbara Mary Eleanor Mae
Nofs, OP Putrow, OP Saynay, OP Stech, OP Tack, OP
6
e Year Golden
and gratitude
ories of beginnings
and future-hoping
g with family
Sean Eileen Beverly Mary Jean Delores
with friends Allgeyer, OP Bobola, OP Clemenger, OP DeBets, OP
forgiveness
ng the deceased
thanks and
ving with joy.
ne M. Mordenski, OP Teresa Mary Ann Dorothy Marie Carmen Patricia
den Jubilee Disch, OP Ferguson, OP Glaister, OP Gonzales, OP Janowicz, OP
Jo Ann Therese Jean Rosemarie Joan Christa
Jauquet, OP Johnson, OP Keeley, OP Kieffer, OP Krajewski, OP Marsik, OP
Mary Diane Joan Christine Mary Kay Emilie Peter Anthony Sarah Ann
McMeekin, OP Meerschaert, OP Moran, OP Petelin, OP Schulte, OP Sharkey, OP
Mary Emidio Susan Joan Marie Helen Jane Rosemary
Singer, OP Van Baalen, OP Weithman, OP Wilson, OP
Silver
Zimmerman, OP Zuccaro, OP
7
Barbara A.
Matievich, OP
Profession of Iraqi and American
Dominicans ~ What God Can Do
“The final profession of our Sisters Heather Motherhouse in Adrian and in the
and Diana preaches to us all that peace, Congregation’s sponsored institutions,
reconciliation and love are truly possible in St. Rose Dominican Hospital in
our world. We express our sincere gratitude Henderson, Nevada, and Regina
and thanks to God for the lives of these two Dominican High School in Wilmette,
beautiful women.” – Sister Donna Illinois.
Markham, Prioress “This is a sign of hope and reconcilia-
In a beautifully tion,” said Sister Maria. “We are tran-
moving and his- scending the actions of our countries
toric ceremony, an through our solidarity while sharing
Iraqi Dominican common life as Dominicans; we feel we
and an American are with family.”
Dominican togeth- In her reflection during the Liturgy,
er celebrated their Sister Durstyne Farnan, OP, Director
profession of per- of Vocations, reiterated the theme, “This
petual vows. Sister is a day of Radical Amazement at what
Diana Momeka, God can do in our lives.” She reflected
OP, of the on the June day in 2007 when Diana
Congregation of and Heather drove together to New
St. Catherine of Orleans to serve those who had been
Siena in Mosul, devastated by Hurricane Katrina. During
Iraq, and Sister this “peace mission,” the two discussed
Heather Stiverson, OP, of the the possibility of taking their final vows
Congregation of the Most Holy Rosary, together. One year later, Sister Durstyne
of Adrian, together took their final noted, “They are ready to pronounce
vows June 22 in Holy Rosary Chapel publicly their perpetual profession of
on the campus of the Adrian vows as Dominicans: an order that is
Dominican Motherhouse. over 800 years old.”
The Profession of Vows took place dur- Sister Durstyne further reflected on the
ing a bilingual Mass, presided over by two women’s unique call from God.
Dominican Friar Jim Barrett, OP, of the “Both women have listened to God’s call
Central Province of St. Albert the in their lives and have answered with
Great. The sacred ritual brought togeth- their ‘Yes.’ ”
er two languages, two Catholic rites, and
“Their profession of perpetual vows
members of two countries at war. Sister
today is the way in which they want to
Diana’s profession of vows took place in
follow Jesus,” she continued. “Love is
the Eastern tradition while she knelt
the source of Heather and Diana’s joy.
before her prioress, Sister Maria Hanna,
Love is the essential condition of their
OP. Sister Heather placed her hand in
intimate friendship with the Lord.
the hand of Sister Donna Markham, OP,
Remaining in Christ’s love, they, Diana
Prioress of the Adrian Dominican
and Heather, and you and I are promised
Sisters, following the Roman Rite. Both
that we will bear much fruit.” a
rites included the blessing of the sisters
as they lay prostrate and the singing of
the Litany of Dominican Saints.
The profession was a culmina-
tion of years of friendship. For
three years, a small group of
young Dominican Sisters from
Iraq have lived and ministered
with the Adrian Dominican
Sisters, both at the
8 Adrian Dominican Prioress, Sister Donna
Markham, OP and Iraqi Prioress, Sister
Maria Hanna, OP, receive the Final Vows
of Sisters Heather and Diana
Sister Patricia Magee Celebrates Vows
In the company of members of Sister Donna Markham, OP, Sister Patricia, herself an
the Congregation, her family and Prioress of the Congregation. Associate before she entered the
her friends, Sister Patricia Her formal witnesses were Sister
Magee, OP, professed her First Mary Ellen Youngblood, OP
Vows as an Adrian Dominican and Sister Margaret Richard
Sister at St. Catherine Chapel on Pillon, OP.
the Motherhouse campus in The Director of the Associate
Adrian on August 8, the feast of Program since 2006, Sister
St. Dominic. Patricia is the daughter of
“I intend, as an Adrian Josephine and Floyd Pettis. She
Dominican Sister, to live the first met the Adrian Dominicans
Dominican charism among my as a student at Rosary High
sisters,” Sister Patricia stated. “I School in Detroit. She received
intend to further the mission of her B.A. from Siena Heights
Jesus Christ wherever that may College and went on to earn her
Sister Pat prays during her First Profession of
Vows in St. Catherine Chapel
lead. I intend to continue to pray, Master’s of Education from
to study, to preach and to live in Marygrove College. Her min-
community. I intend to accept, by istries included teaching at Holy
the grace of God, the growth and Trinity School in Detroit and formation program to become a
blessings that will come to me serving as the director of religious vowed member, is in charge of a
through this life.” education at St. Peter Parish in program of 200 Associates. a
She pronounced her vows before Harper Woods, Michigan.
Something of God’s Magnificence …
Sister Cynthia Broderick, OP, During the profession ceremony, Cindy received her ring, symbol-
professed perpetual vows as a Sister Cindy offered her state- izing her fidelity to Christ. Sister
Dominican Sister of Adrian on ment of intent: “It is my intent to Donna then affirmed her final
November 29 at St. Nicholas give the whole of my being to profession. “From the moment
Church in Evanston, Illinois. God in service of God’s people as you began your journey with our
Sister Donna Markham, OP, a Dominican Sister of Adrian. I Congregation, you were clear in
Prioress of the Congregation, profess my full ‘Yes’ to God and your desire to grow in our
received her vows in the presence promise you, Sister Donna, and Dominican life.”
of Sister Cindy’s family; friends; all my sisters that I will continu- Sister Cindy was born in
students from Regina Dominican ally strive to grow deeper in my Edmond, Oklahoma. She
High School; other Dominican love of, and commitment to, our received a Bachelor’s Degree in
Sisters; and her witnesses, Sister lives together in prayer, study, Theology/Pastoral Ministry from
Mary Alice Naour, OP, and community and preaching all for Quincy University, a Franciscan
Sister Ellen Burkhardt, OP. The the sake of the mission of Jesus. I university in Quincy, Illinois. She
Profession of Vows took place in commit myself today for life into earned her Master’s Degree in
the context of a Mass, celebrated the unknown mystery that is to Theology from the Aquinas
by Father Michael Kyte, OP. come, trusting in God’s guidance Institute of Theology.
Sister Corinne Sanders, OP, dur- and support for whatever our
After meeting Adrian
ing a reflection on the day’s future holds.”
Dominicans at Aquinas, Sister
Gospel, said, “Today, Cindy will After professing her vows, Sister Cindy began her formation on
confidently bring to September 1, 2001.
fullness a hope, a desire, She has served at
a pursuit that has led Regina Dominican
her to this day. She and in campus ministry
the Dominican Sisters and as a teacher and
of Adrian will place our assistant athletic
lives in one another’s director. a
hands and profess life.”
9
Sister Donna and Sister
Cindy, St. Nicholas Church,
Evanston, Illinois
Associate Profile: Kathleen Stratton
With this issue of Voices, we begin mentors and advisors. “They con-
a series of profiles of Adrian
Dominican Associates, those who
tinue to share their wisdom and
insights with me which is a
Associate Program
share in the life and mission of
Adrian Dominican Sisters without a
tremendous help in continuing
this ministry,” she said. “It’s not
Welcomes New
vowed commitment. Associates may
be men or women, single or mar-
only their words I treasure. It’s
their values lived every day in
Members
ried, but they must be at least 21 just the ordinary aspects of life.” This past year, the Adrian
years old and share the ideals and Kat felt drawn to the Associate Dominican Associate Program
values of the Congregation. For Program through her experiences proudly welcomed eight new
information on the Associate of Kathryn and June. She was
Program, contact Patricia Magee, deeply touched by how they lived
OP, at 517-266-3531 or their lives. “Their presence in
pmagee@adriandominicans.org. this county is reflected in the
Associate nine nonprofits founded by
Kathleen them,” she said. “These two
“Kat” women truly walk the talk, and I
Stratton felt called to learn more about
met the the Adrian Dominicans.” When
Adrian she read an article about the
Dominican Associate Program in the Winter members. Mary Alice Babka,
Sisters through her volunteer 2001 issue of Voices, she took it as Jo Curran, Dee Joyner,
work at Cedar Hill Enrichment a “divine invitation.” Dolores (Dodie) Nelke, Beth
Center, a retreat center co-found- An Associate since May 8, 2004, Moritz, and Carol Williams
ed by Sisters Kathryn Cliatt, OP Kat enjoys her time with Adrian were accepted into the program
and June Racicot, OP. Dominican Sisters, especially the during a ceremony and recep-
Kat is now the executive director times that her mission group and tion at Aquinas Institute, a
of Cedar Hill, which is located in the Mission Council meet at Dominican graduate school in
Gainesville, in the foothills of Cedar Hill. These meetings give St. Louis, Missouri. Also attend-
northern Georgia. Her ministry her the opportunity to “visit and ing the ceremony and reception
at Cedar Hill “is expressed share with all the women who were Adrian Dominican Sisters
through our vision as a center of have worked so hard and faithful- Peggy Coyne, OP; Joan
ly over the years to live the Delaplane, OP; Maribeth
spirituality, ecology and Earth
Dominican charism,” she said. Howell, OP; Katie McGrail,
education.” The center offers
“They are all so vibrant!” Kat OP; Patricia Walter, OP; and
days of reflection for individuals;
added that staying connected Director of Associate Program
spiritual companioning; day-long
with these women is the most ful- Patricia Magee, OP.
group retreats; and regular,
filling part of being an Associate. Andre Poissant and Maria
monthly programs such as the
This connection is a “true gift in Aceto became Associates during
Reading Group, Drumming
my life.” a special Sunday liturgy in Holy
Circle; and Sacred Circle, an
Kat would recommend the Rosary Chapel in Adrian.
afternoon of prayer, conversation
Associate Program to women and Andre, a social worker who
and ritual.
men “who are seeking a deeper graduated from Siena Heights
“We offer retreat days for corpo- relationship with the Divine and University, was mentored by
rations as well as being a place for who are searching for that special Sister Marcine Klemm, OP.
area nonprofits,” Kat explained. place that so many are looking Maria, a nurse at St. Rose
“This benefits the community by for today: community.” Being an Dominican Hospital in
helping those in other ministries Associate “has brought a richness Henderson, Nevada, was men-
find ways to de-stress from the and fullness to my life that I tored by Sister Charlotte
rigors of nonprofit outreach.” would not have imaged,” Kat Francis Moser, OP.
As a member of the Cedar Hill explained. “I would encourage
staff, Kat lives in community anyone to explore this program
10
with Sisters Kathryn and June. and see how we can build a
She looks to them as friends, strong future.”
Passion for Preaching
It comes as no surprise that Reconciliation services; during “Preaching begins with God’s
Adrian Dominican Sisters have a retreats; and at funeral rites. Word and how we use the scrip-
passion for preaching, since the Sixty-three percent of parishes tures to touch people’s lives.
Order of Preachers was founded today have lay ministers, of As a pastoral associate for St.
by St. Dominic, a preacher who which 50 percent have preaching Peter the Fisherman Parish in
gave its members the mission to roles in their ministry, according Eagle River, Wisconsin, Sister
proclaim the Word of God by to Sister Sara. The U.S. Jeanne has participated in team
preaching, teaching, and example. Conference of Catholic Bishops homilies for Christmas and Easter
“We’re all called to continue that promulgated a decree on lay with Father Bob Koszarek, pastor
preaching,” said Sister Pat preaching in 2002. Approved by of a group of small parishes in the
Brady, OP, of Westchester, the Holy See, the decree permits Diocese of Superior, Wisconsin.
Illinois. “Preaching is much more lay liturgical preaching except “We’re not giving separate homi-
about what you do with your own within the celebration of the lies but crafting one together,”
life.” In 1999, Sister Pat began Eucharist at the time reserved for she said, giving the example of
the Dominican High Schools the homily. “Lay preachers are one in which she took on the
Preaching Conference, which has displaced persons in the liturgy,” role of Mary Magdalene and
become an annual event in Sister Sara wrote in an article Father Bob gave St. Peter’s
which students of high schools about the subject, “Displaced impressions of seeing the empty
sponsored by Dominicans explore Persons: Lay Liturgical Preachers tomb on Easter morning.
the charism of preaching. Vatican at the Eucharist,” Worship, Vol. Whether preaching in the pulpit
II encouraged all religious orders 77, No. 5, Sept. 2003. “By failing or in the classroom, on inner city
to reflect on the charism of their to proclaim positively the rightful
mission. As the Order of place for lay preaching, the bish-
Preachers, the Dominicans ops allow for a variety of pastoral
reflected on their identity as practices. Lay preachers may well
preachers, as well as teachers, of be compelled to preach at the
the Word. beginning of the liturgy as part
Canon Law considers the homily of the introductory rite or at
to be part of the liturgy and the end of the liturgy after the
reserves the homily to ordained post-communion prayer or per-
priests or deacons. “Lay persons haps somewhere in-between,”
are allowed to give reflections on she wrote.
the Liturgy of the Word when it Sister Sara chairs the Adrian
is necessary or advantageous,” Dominican Preaching
Sister Jeanne Wiest preaching with Father
Bob Koszarek
said Sister Sara Fairbanks, OP, Commission, which is comprised
PhD, assistant professor of theol- of women representing chapters
ogy at Barry University in Miami. throughout the Adrian streets or in prisons, or in the
Lay persons can be admitted to Dominican Congregation. Other everyday life of grocery shopping
preach in a church or oratory if it members of the Preaching and communal living, Adrian
is necessary in certain circum- Commission include Adrian Dominicans continue to claim
stances or if it’s advantageous in Dominican Sister Rosa Monique the heritage of their founder,
particular cases, according to Peña, Vicaress of the Dominic. In all of their ministries
Canon Law. “Liturgical preaching Congregation; Sister Cathy Olds, and actions, they strive to preach:
is even broader,” Sister Sara said, Chapter Prioress of the to “speak the Gospel word in the
citing the absence of a priest or Dominican West Chapter; and transforming power of the Spirit
the presence of a language barrier Chapter representatives, Sisters according to the needs of our
as examples of meeting Maria Goretti time” (Adrian Dominican
the necessary or advan- Browne, Joan Constitution and Statutes, #6).
tageous conditions. Delaplane, Mary Pat Duane Ramsey is a free-lance
Liturgical Law allows Dewey, Patty
writer who has written articles for
non-ordained persons Harvat, Mary Irene
business journals, newspapers
to preach at other Walker and Jeanne
times, such as after Wiest. including The Detroit News, mag-
11
communion during a azines, and religious publications
“Preaching is not just
Eucharistic celebration; from the pulpit,” such as Faith Magazine. Duane
Sister Rosa Monique
Liturgy of the Word or Sister Jeanne said. lives in Toledo, Ohio.
Peña, Vicaress of the
Congregation
Women In Our History
Sister Agnes Serridge
1848–1923
– by Catherine Podvin, OP
In the Congregation’s beginnings, record keeping was not as Volume 10, No. 1 Winter 2009
important as it is at present. There are sisters about whom An Adrian Dominican Publication
Director of
we know very little. Sister Agnes Serridge is one of them.
Nothing is known about Sister Agnes Serridge’s early life, Communications and Technology
not even her baptismal name. We know only that she was born in Germany Mary Karen McClellan
Writer/Editor
in 1848. We know, too, that Sister Agnes left Germany for the United States,
but there is no record of when. We do know that she met the New York Barbara Kelley, OP
Editorial Assistance
Dominicans and was attracted to their lifestyle. She was well into her thirties
when she made her decision to join them.
Nadine Foley, OP
Design
She entered Holy Rosary Convent on Second Street in New York City as a
lay sister. Records show that she professed her first vows on August 22, 1885,
John MacNaughton
in her thirty-seventh year.
Almost immediately after profession she was sent to Michigan. There Sister Photography
Ray Casey
Agnes served at St. Joseph Hospital in Adrian for several years, mainly in the
large brick building dedicated in 1896. She later ministered in Michigan at Circulation
St. Agatha in Gagetown and St. Michael in Port Austin, and in Ohio at SS. Office Support Services
Peter and Paul in Sandusky. Her last and longest assignment was in Chicago, Voices in Mission and Ministry is published
at St. Columbanus, where the community numbered among its members sev- quarterly by the Adrian Dominican Sisters.
eral lively young sisters. Although she was inclined to be stern, she was Please direct comments or address changes to:
Adrian Dominican Sisters
patient with the young sisters and they liked her.
Frugality was a way of life in those years. Sister Agnes was thrifty by nature, 1257 East Siena Heights Drive
Adrian, Michigan 49221-1793
also a deeply prayerful person, one who believed in and practiced self denial. Phone: 517-266-3400
She was in charge of the kitchens on the missions where she served, and she Fax: 517-266-3545
was not overly generous with the food that she prepared for meals. She dis- mkmcclellan@adriandominicans.org
couraged snacking, and the sisters soon learned to stay out of the kitchen www.adriandominicans.org
except at meal times. Desserts such as cakes appeared only when Mother
For information about:
Camilla Madden was visiting.
Some of the young sisters told stories about the ways they thought up to out- Vowed membership
wit her. They would sneak snacks and have parties when she was out of the Sister Durstyne Farnan, OP
Phone: 517-266-3537
way. At St. Columbanus, even the superior entered into these deceptions.
Associate program
vocations@adriandominicans.org
One night she planned a cake and ice cream party for the sisters, and put
Sister Agnes to bed with a hot drink. Sister Patricia Magee, OP
Phone: 517-266-3531
Sister Agnes contracted pneumonia, and after a long illness she died on April
Become a donor
ADAssoc@adriandominicans.org
3, 1923, in the seventy-fifth year of her life. Her death occurred two months
before St. Joseph Province, Adrian, became an independent congregation Sister Adrienne Schaffer, OP
under the title “Congregation of the Most Holy Rosary.” She lies at rest in Phone: 586-776-4685
Circle One of the Congregational cemetery. DevOffAD@aol.com
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