NC - Summer 2020

SISTERS OF
THE HOLY
FAMILY OF
NAZARETH
// VOL 14 //
// NO 2 //
FALL 2020
Nazareth
CONNECTIONS
FAMILY IS THE HEART OF OUR MISSION
Reflection on
Covid-19
STORY ON PAGE 6

MESSAGE FROM THE PROVINCIAL SUPERIOR
Dear Friends of Nazareth,
I write this letter to you at a time of
great uncertainty in our nation and in
our world. The pandemic continues
across the globe, leaving few lives
untouched by the physical, societal,
and economic realities of the virus.
Civil unrest continues in response
to racial injustice, reminding us that
racism and prejudice exists across
our nation. Illness, violence, and
destruction are everywhere. It is easy
to succumb to despair and frustration
at the many challenges we face.
Where do we find hope when all of
these difficulties may leave us feeling
hopeless?
I am reminded of the words of our
Mother Foundress, Blessed Mary of
Jesus the Good Shepherd (Frances
Siedliska), when she wrote: “It is futile
to dwell on one’s misery and spiritual
poverty, rather, one needs to strive
for love and perfection in spite of
them.” As Sisters of the Holy Family
of Nazareth, we are called to create
communities of love and hope which
celebrate the oneness of the human
family. We believe it is through God’s
love, manifested in our life of service,
that we can help bring hope to families
in all their many forms.
During the past few months, our
sisters across the province have
embraced adventurous and creative
ways to bring love and hope into
our world in crisis. Our sisters
who serve in education ministries
have continued to connect with
their students in virtual classrooms.
Those who minister in healthcare
continue to serve the needy and
vulnerable. Those in parish ministries
have worked diligently to keep the
faithful connected to Christ. Other
sisters have made face-masks for
frontline workers, brought meals
to homebound seniors, prayed with
those who are incarcerated, sent
cards to those in need of cheer,
made phone calls to check on friends
and family, and continued to pray
for the end to these challenging
times. By staying active in spreading
the Kingdom of God’s love and not
dwelling on misery, we have found
hope.
There is hope in the four new
postulants we welcomed into the
Congregation on June 28 in Grand
Prairie, TX. Katie Allen, Becky Garcia,
Binh Nguyen, and Molly Spiering
joined Kayla Danks who became a
postulant in 2019. You may read more
about the newest members of our
Congregation on page four.
We also find hope in the joyous
dedication of our sisters who
celebrate jubilees this year. Though
formal celebrations were canceled
for the safety and protection of
everyone, I invite you to offer prayers
of thanksgiving for our diamond
Sr. Kathleen praying in solidarity with all
for our troubled world.
jubilarian, Sr. Eunice Leszczynska,
our golden jubilarians, Sr. Mary Ellen
Gemmell and Sr. Loretta Rose Tallas,
and our silver jubilarians,
Sr. Maria Therese Nguyen, Sr. Hanna
Paradowska, Sr. Maria Magdalena
Rybak, and Sr. Trina Marie Ulrich.
As we move forward in these different
times into an unknown future, let
us remember the many graces God
blesses us with each day and continue
to find hope in our service to others.
I also invite you to keep in mind these
words from our Mother Foundress:
“Strive for peace, meekness and
also forbearance with oneself and
others; not a forbearance that justifies
wrongdoing, but a gentleness that is
serene and humble.”
We continue to pray for the peace,
health, and well-being of you and your
family.
In the Holy Family,
Sister Kathleen Maciej
HOW ARE YOU CALLED TO LOVE?
We invite you to pray with us, to listen to God’s call with us and to love with us
as we find God in ordinary experiences. Learn more about our community life,
our ministries and our mission at nazarethcsfn.org/join-us. Or contact
Sr. Emmanuela Le, CSFN, National Vocation Director, at 972-641-4496 x111
or vocations@nazarethcsfn.org.
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4
13
7
VOLUME 14 //
NUMBER 2 //
FALL 2020
Nazareth Connections is published
three times a year by the Sisters of
the Holy Family of Nazareth
in the USA.
Editor:
Tammy Townsend Denny
Proofreaders:
Sr. Clare Marie Kozicki
Sr. Jude Carroll
Sr. Lucille Madura
Contents
VOCATION
4 Prayers for our new
postulants
REFLECTION
6 Adventures with God
2020 JUBILARIANS
10 Sr. Eunice Leszczynska
Sr. Mary Ellen Gemmell
Sr Loretta Rose Tallas
Sr. Maria Therese Nguyen
Sr. Hanna Paradowska
Sr. Maria Magdalena Rybak
Sr. Trina Maria Ulrich
IN MEMORIAM
DEVELOPMENT
18 Thank you from our
development office
ON THE COVER:
Sr. Theresita Donach CSFN, pastoral associate at Sts. Philip and
James Catholic Church, St. James, NY.
17
14 Sr. M. Lucille (Margaret) Lukasiewicz
Sr. M. Alma (Leokadia “Lillian”) Bak
Sr. Donna Marie Davis
Sr. M. Roselita Bradley
Sr. Stella Louise Slomka
Sr. M. Regina (Helen) Jaszwinski
Editorial Board:
Sr. Angela Szczawinska
Sr. Barbara Frances Samp
Sr. Carol Szott
Sr. Jude Carroll
Sr. Kathleen Ann Stadler
Sr. Lucille Madura
Sr. Marcelina Mikulska
Sr. Marcella Louise Wallowicz
Sr. Mary Louise Swift
Sr. Teresilla Kolodziejczyk
Katherine Barth
Design/Print:
McDaniels Marketing
Questions, comments, suggestions?
Please contact:
Communications Department
Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth
310 N. River Road,
Des Plaines, IL 60016
847-298-6760, x144
ttownsend@nazarethcsfn.org
nazarethcsfn.org
facebook.com/csfn.usa
twitter.com/csfn_usa
instagram.com/csfn.usa
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2020
3

VOCATION
Prayers for our new
postulants
WELCOME KATIE, BECKY, BINH, AND MOLLY
With sisters, friends, and family from
across the U.S. watching on Zoom,
Katie Allen, Becky Garcia, Binh
Nguyen, and Molly Spiering became
postulants of the Sisters of the Holy
Family of Nazareth on June 28 at
Jesus the Good Shepherd Convent
in Grand Prairie, TX. Our sisters
welcomed the new postulants in a
formal ceremony where each of the
young women received a medal of the
Holy Family.
Katie, Becky, Binh, and Molly joined
Kayla Danks, who began her
postulancy in 2019. With Sr. Marietta
Osinska as their director, the young
women will begin a period of
structured discernment.
4
Katie, a Texas native, has been actively
discerning her vocation since 2011.
From a large, loving family with what
she describes as two “official” and
many more “unofficial” siblings, Katie

was drawn to our Congregation
because of the holiness our sisters
find within ordinary life.
“The soul which aspires to the life of union with
Jesus and accepts its requirement, will not be
harmed by her weakness, interior opposition, or
sinful tendencies, as long as she does not yield to
them, but focuses her attention upon Jesus, heeds
Him, and remains devoted to Him.” --Blessed Mary
of Jesus the Good Shepherd (Frances Siedliska),
Rome, June 16, 1886
Becky, also originally from Texas, is
one of three siblings. She earned her
bachelor’s degree in art with a focus
on ceramics from the University
of Dallas in Irving, TX. She began
discerning her vocation in the fall of
2017.
Binh was born in Vietnam where
her younger sister and parents still
live. She has been in the U.S. for six
years and has two siblings in North
Carolina. Binh is currently pursuing
an associate of science degree at
Brookhaven College in Farmers
Branch, TX.
Molly was raised on a farm in Powell,
WY. One of 11 children, she earned
a bachelor’s degree in theology from
Christendom College in Front Royal,
VA. She went on to serve as the
associate director of pastoral ministry
at Holy Trinity Church in Cheyenne,
WY.
Please pray with us for these young
women as they share in our life of
prayer and community and get to
know our Congregation better.
For more information on discerning a
call to religious life, please contact our
vocation director, Sr. Emmanuela Le, at
vocations@nazarethcsfn.org.
On Being Received
as a Postulant
(Forty Years Later)
by Sr. Frances Smalkowski, CSFN
With a crown of golden braids
Made from my long curly hair
Excitedly I rushed
To Your awaiting arms.
With such enthusiastic wonderment
I could hardly walk
In my new black nun’s shoes
That memorable predawn hour.
Forty years later
I carry the same enthusiasm
But a deeper joy and peace
Amid the realities of all I have been called to.
Knowing Your arms still await me
I walk more slowly
But with greater confidence
In all You have promised.
From left to right: Kayla Danks, Binh
Nguyen, Molly Spiering, Sr. Marietta
Osinka, Sr. Kathleen Maciej, Becky
Garcia, and Katie Allen.
Our postulants in Grand Prairie, TX.
Becky Garcia receives her Holy
Family medal from Provincial
Superior Sr. Kathleen Maciej.
Katie Allen receives her Holy Family
medal.
Molly Spiering receives her Holy
Family medal.
Binh Nguyen receives her Holy
Family medal.
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2020
5

REFLECTION
Adventures
with God
A REFLECTION ON
COVID-19
by Sr. Marcelina Mikulska, CSFN
Have you found yourself drifting away
from God because of challenging daily
life experiences during this pandemic?
Covid-19 spreads not only physical
illness and death, but also confusion,
unpredictability, hopelessness,
loneliness, and desperation. For many,
this confusing time is a spiritual battle
and a search for truth. Our lives,
enriched by faith, revere truth. That
truth allows us to see that all humans
are multifaceted beings who are able
to spread the Kingdom of God, even
amidst the discord in our streets,
stores, homes, and hearts. There is
hope in God’s love. There is much to
be learned every day if we slow down
and pay close attention to God’s
intimate whisper.
The coronavirus should not serve
as a reason for us to stop seeing the
opportunities before us. Instead, let
this time be an adventure with God,
who created us and sustains our
lives. Through the faithful connection
with the Good News of God and
fulfillment of the mission in the world,
the Church supports and elevates
truth, goodness, and beauty in society.
It also strengthens peace for the
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We may also turn to the example
of Blessed Mary Stella and her Ten
Companions who experienced
a pervasiveness of violence in
Nowogrodek during World War II. The
Eleven Martyrs saw their experiences
in the light of faith. The long hours
after their arrest, the night prayer on
the floor of the commissariat’s cold
and damp basement, and the morning
walk to the place of their execution
on August 1, 1943 must have seemed
an eternity. Certainly, it must have
seemed much longer than our current
lockdowns. Our Martyred Sisters
surely sensed the unconditional love
of God. They accepted the challenge
to be faithful to their calling. Together,
their sacrifice saved numerous families.
greater glory of God. Even during
this chaotic period in our world, we
hear the apostolic appeal, “Indeed,
the right time is now. It is the time
of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). It
is an appropriate time to change
window of her upstairs room on Via
Machiavelli in Rome. In all probability,
she may have felt like she was
experiencing a quarantine, such as
we have experienced during shelterin-place
orders. During our current
“During this challenging time, what should we
embrace to fulfill our call to sainthood? What should
be left behind? Let’s be present more for people
around us and become a walking sign of gratitude.
Let’s try to be people of creative solutions for Christ
by spreading beauty, goodness, and truth.”
our hearts. It is a time of meaningful
opportunities. Jesus did not need to
change his perfect heart; yet, he went
to the desert. During this Covid-19
pandemic, Jesus calls us to the
desolate places of our hearts.
Our Mother Foundress, Blessed Mary
of Jesus the Good Shepherd (Frances
Siedliska) wanted to celebrate life
even when it seemed like there was
nothing to celebrate. For a long
time, she was bedridden and prayed
before the Eucharist from the little
times of quarantine, there are plenty
of opportunities to build and improve
our relationships. Blessed Mary of
Jesus the Good Shepherd can be our
model in this regard. Her example
can be a catalyst for change. Despite
her sickness, ostracization, spiritual
dryness and longings, problems,
concerns, anxieties, and grotesque
intrusions, she found her rest in God.
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2020
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The predominance of war in Europe
during the 1940s brought numerous
difficulties, fear, painful isolation,
barriers to faith, and futility of work.
Ungodly systems overtook authority
in the Church. The Servant of God Sr.
Malgorzata Banas, who was the one
remaining CSFN in Nowogrodek not
killed by the Nazis, had the courage to
act and speak the truth.
She was a steward of freedom and
faith. She proactively found a solution
and collaborated with others so the
freedom to worship in Nowogrodek
would never be taken from the
people, and they would abide in
God’s presence. Sr. Malgorzata, “The
Guardian of the Tabernacle” as she
was called, experienced her own
lockdown behind the door in the
sacristy of the Fara in Nowogrodek
while safeguarding the Presence of the
Blessed Sacrament. She didn’t know
how long she would stay there. The
place was tight and cold. Food and
water were scarce. Her life was in
danger. Yet, God provided for her and
good people helped her to survive
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that unprecedented time. She paid
it forward by nurturing the religious
spirit of the townspeople. She
experienced the existential solitary
time, used it wisely, plunged into deep
reality, and fulfilled her mission. The life
of the Servant of God Sr. Malgorzata is
yet another example for us to turn to
during our pandemic.
Reflecting upon those who lived
before us, let us take seriously the
truth of our faith by practicing the
corporal and spiritual works of mercy.
May the goodness of Christ’s mercy
fill our time. The examples of God’s
holy people will help us to turn
freely toward goodness. They show
the tremendous significance of our
existence and mission regardless of
our difficulties. God’s Grace works in
and through us despite our limitations.
During this challenging time, what
should we embrace to fulfill our
call to sainthood? What should be
left behind? Let’s be present more
for people around us and become a
walking sign of gratitude. Let’s try to
be people of creative solutions for
Christ by spreading beauty, goodness,
and truth. God’s people, the Church,
are the “universal sacrament of
salvation.” Let us remember that we
are destined for eternal life. Let us
savor and cultivate the beauty and
goodness of God.
Sr. Marcelina entered the Congregation in
1996. She earned a BA in early childhood
and elementary education and an MS in
counseling psychology.
Sr. Theresita Donach prepares for
an “adventure with God” at Sts.
Philip and James Catholic Church.
Srs. Maria Magdalena Rybak and
Marta Gadzinowska have a little fun
with Mother Foundress and a face
mask.
Sr. Gabriela Duszynska uses the
“meaningful opportunity” of our
times to make cloth face masks to
help others.
Sisters find “creative solutions” to
spread Christ’s beauty and love with
safely distanced birthday greetings
for Sr. Winifred Chopak.
Sr. Virginette Rypniewski finds
“creative solutions” to create face
masks.
Sisters in Philadelphia are a
“walking sign of gratitude” for the
face masks a donor made.
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2020
9

2020 JUBILARIANS
Congratulations
TO OUR 2020 JUBILARIANS
SR. EUNICE LESZCZYNSKA
DIAMOND JUBILEE – 75 YEARS
Entered June 27, 1945
Sr. Eunice says that her “yes” to religious life opened her heart to God’s
presence in the beauty of creation. Her travels in the last 75 years as a Sister of
the Holy Family of Nazareth have introduced her to diverse cultures, customs,
and traditions around the world. An understanding of this diversity has guided
Sr. Eunice in her social work ministry, as she inspired countless families to build
healthier and happier homes. Reflecting on her parenting education workshops
Sr. Eunice Leszczynska pictured center
at the Family Center at Holy Family University, she says, “Seeing [the parents’]
joy of accomplishment when receiving their certificate of accomplishment made me feel I was really living our charism.”
The kindness, excellent teaching, and prayerful devotions of the sisters who taught her at Nazareth Academy in
Philadelphia inspired her to enter the Congregation. She went on to earn her Ph.D. in social work from the Catholic
University of America in Washington, DC, a certificate in family therapy from the Center for Family Learning in New
Rochelle, NY, and a certificate in parent education from the Parenting Resource and Education Network in Fort
Washington, PA. She has served as a teacher at the elementary, secondary, and college levels, childcare worker in homes
for dependent and neglected children, administrator at residential treatment homes for children, family counselor, and
parenting educator.
Sr. Eunice attributes these accomplishments to her strong relationship with the Lord which she says stays “fresh and alive
through prayer, holy hours, and special devotions.” That prayer life also helps her to be present for her sisters when they
need her and “to grow in communal love, joy, and support.”
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SR. MARY ELLEN GEMMELL
GOLDEN JUBILEE – 50 YEARS
Entered September 8, 1970
It was her desire to help families, as she saw so many Catholic sisters doing,
which first drew Sr. Mary Ellen to her vocation. Reflecting on her 50 years as
a Sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth, Sr. Mary Ellen believes she is called to
“live my Nazareth calling joyfully, accepting obstacles, and placing all events into
the hands of our Father and Maker.”
With a BA in English and an MA in bilingual-bicultural education and administration of schools, Sr. Mary Ellen has served
as a teacher and principal in Philadelphia and in Puerto Rico as a teacher, principal and associate superintendent. In
2007, she received the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, a medal from the Pope conferred for distinguished service to the Catholic
Church by lay people and clergy. In 2007, she was also honored with the Doctor of Humane Letters from Holy Family
University in Philadelphia.
She has served and continues to serve with a grateful heart; she recognizes God’s Providence in her life, always thankful
for her family, her sisters in community, and all people where she has had the privilege to serve. Today, Sr. Mary Ellen
shares her joyful gifts of prayer and hard-work as provincial secretary and councilor for our US province and as an online
Spanish instructor with Holy Family University. She says, “At all times, I strive to follow Jesus, knowing I am going to
the Father; knowing that I serve the Church and listen attentively to the teaching of the Holy Father as so many of our
Sisters do and have done before me; no matter what the task at hand.”
SR. LORETTA ROSE TALLAS
GOLDEN JUBILEE – 50 YEARS
Entered May 31, 1970
Sr. Loretta Rose is an educator at heart. In her 49 years as a teacher, she has
inspired countless young people to learn and grow in their love of God. Her
Master’s degrees in education, theology, and Christian spirituality coupled with
her heartfelt interest in the well-being of others allows her to be a supportive
listener among her students and among her sisters in the Congregation. In
addition to her work as a second grade teacher at Immaculate Conception
School in Grand Prairie, TX, Sr. Loretta Rose is also a member of the CHRISTUS Health Northeast Texas Board of
Directors and serves as a spiritual director in the Association of the Holy Family.
Influenced by the Catholic sisters she knew, Sr. Loretta Rose ultimately heard her call to religious life in prayer. It was the
daily, community prayer of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth that drew her to the Congregation. A half-century
later, prayer continues to play a vital role in her life. For inspiration in her vocation and her ministry, she turns to the
prayer lives of Blessed Mary Jesus of the Good Shepherd (Frances Siedliska) and other saints.
“In my religious life, I have found deepening prayer and growth in my spiritual life to be the most satisfying,” she says.
“Spiritual directors, retreats, education in theology and Christian spirituality, family ministry, and Nazareth community
prayer and fellowship have supported this deepening growth.”
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2020
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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2020 JUBILARIANS CONTINUED...
SR. MARIA THERESE NGUYEN
SILVER JUBILEE – 25 YEARS
Entered August 27, 1995
Sr. Maria Therese says she is “very proud” to be one of the first Vietnamese
sisters in our Congregation. She was drawn to the Sisters of the Holy Family
of Nazareth for our simplicity and “Holy Family way of living,” as she puts it.
However, she believes it was her readings of St. Therese of Lisieux’s The Story of
a Soul and St. Pope John XXIII’s Journal of Soul that first inspired her to consider
religious life. Though she has faced challenges through the years, Sr. Maria
Therese’s joy, love, and compassion have helped her grow and flourish in her vocation.
“The most important thing to me within the charism of our Congregation is charity,” she said. “Without charity and love
no one can function and live well in community. I see myself living and maintaining this charity in all I do.”
Through the years, she has remained truthful to herself in her community life. That truthfulness has enabled her to share
her gifts and talents with the members of the Congregation. Known for her radiant smile and infectious laughter, Sr.
Maria Therese radiates Nazareth joy as she fills the hearts of those with whom she ministers with the love of God. She
currently volunteers as a parish religious education teacher and is pursuing a degree in religious studies from Holy Family
University in Philadelphia. Between her studies and her volunteer ministry, she also enjoys practicing her piano skills and
listening to both classical and country music.
SR. HANNA PARADOWSKA
SILVER JUBILEE – 25 YEARS
Entered August 26, 1995
There is a verse from scripture that has been with Sr. Hanna from the very
beginning of her religious life: “Everyone who has given up houses or brothers
or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will
receive a hundred times more, and will inherit eternal life” (Mt 19:29). Looking
back on the last quarter century, Sr. Hanna believes this verse still holds true for
her journey as a Sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth. “Because of the gift of
faith and because of my response to God’s call, I have had the privilege to minister to so many.”
A board-certified chaplain with an MA in spirituality from Loyola University in Chicago, Sr. Hanna currently serves in
pastoral care at Ascension Living’s Casa San Carlo Retirement Community in Northlake, IL. Over the last 12 years in
various pastoral care ministries, she has been a peaceful and calming presence in hectic and emotional situations. Sr.
Hanna also volunteers in detention centers ministering to immigrants. She has “had the privilege to minister to families…
in their darkest hours.”
Mother Teresa of Calcutta (now St. Teresa) inspired Sr. Hanna, as she began to explore the possibility of entering religious
life. After researching various communities, she was drawn to the hospitality, family spirit, daily Eucharistic adoration, and
simplicity of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. “I think that our Nazareth charism and ministry to families is so
vital and needed today,” she says. “God - in His Son - chose to be present to people in their needs, their weaknesses, their
poverty, and their ordinary life experiences.”
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Sr. Maria Magdalena Rybak
pictured center
SR. MARIA MAGDALENA RYBAK
SILVER JUBILEE – 25 YEARS
Entered August 26, 1995
“Nowhere in the world would I be able to discover my gifts, my talents, my
weaknesses, and my strengths as I did here in Nazareth, with my sisters,” says
Sr. Maria Magdalena. A certified critical care registered nurse, she shares her
gifts of compassion and gentleness with the patients and families she serves at
AMITA Holy Family Medical Center in Des Plaines, IL. Nursing was her full-time
ministry until two years ago when she was elected to the leadership team of
our US province. “My ministry in nursing really helped me to see that there is
more, that I can do more,” she said. “Taking care of the sick, lonely, suffering, and
vulnerable opened up my heart to God’s call.” She now ministers part-time as an ICU nurse along with her full-time work
as a provincial councilor.
The simplicity, family spirit, and hospitality of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth attracted Sr. Maria Magdalena
to religious life. “When I first got to Ostrzeszów (one of our Convents in Poland), I felt like it was home; I felt safe; I felt
accepted,” she says. “I knew this was it.”
Over the last 25 years, Sr. Maria Magdalena says she has had abundant opportunities to travel and to learn new cultures
and languages that she never dreamed possible. But, it’s the community with other sisters that makes her heart “jump for
joy in gratitude and puts one big smile on my face.” Reflecting on her time in the Congregation, she said, “God has given
me a gift and this gift is my vocation to Nazareth, for which I am grateful until the day I will take my last breath.”
SR. TRINA MARIE ULRICH
SILVER JUBILEE – 25 YEARS
Entered August 6, 1995
As teacher and chair of the theology department at Aurora Central Catholic
High School in Aurora, IL, Sr. Trina strives to make the Catholic faith, the Bible,
and the salvation found in Jesus relevant in the lives of the young people in her
classroom. With an MA in Biblical Studies from Catholic Theological Union in
Chicago and her extensive spiritual discernment and formation, Sr. Trina shares
a wealth of scriptural knowledge and experience with her students. Throughout
her years in the classroom, she has inspired numerous students to deepen their love of Jesus and their understanding
of the oneness of the human family. In 2018, she took these lessons outside the classroom when she led a grace-filled
pilgrimage to Rome, guiding her students through real-life encounters with their faith and with the Holy Father.
As a Sister of the Holy Family of Nazareth, she says she “gives witness to God’s primacy in a person’s life,” a witness
that helps her “continually make God present in the lives of people today.” The spirituality of our sisters along with
encouragement from her mother led Sr. Trina to enter the Congregation. Today, she continues to find inspiration in our
incarnational spirituality and apostolic and contemplative way of life.
Sr. Trina believes God has been guiding her to the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth from her earliest beginnings,
since she was baptized on November 21, 1971, the feast day of Blessed Mary of Jesus the Good Shepherd (Frances
Siedliska), foundress of our Congregation.
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2020
13

In Memoriam
Sr. M. Lucille
(Margaret)
Lukasiewicz
June 10, 1930 –
January 21, 2020
Margaret was born
on June 10, 1930 to Clement and
Anna (Kujawska) Lukasiewicz in the
Lawrenceville area of Pittsburgh.
She grew up in a neighborhood of
row houses that displayed a homey
character, reflecting the original
Polish immigrants who valued keeping
families close to one another and to
the Church.
The second of four children, Margaret,
was baptized in Holy Family Parish
and attended the parish grade school
staffed by the Sisters of the Holy
Family of Nazareth. She became a
postulant on June 20, 1946, completing
her high school education at Mount
Nazareth Academy. She professed
her first vows in 1951 and final vows
in 1957. Sr. Lucille began her life of
ministry at Mercy Hospital in Altoona,
PA serving as an assistant to the
pharmacy department.
Beginning in 1953 in Detroit and
later in Erie, PA, Cleveland, OH,
and Pittsburgh, PA, Sr. Lucille taught
elementary school. Her special caring
presence was also felt by students
at St. Frances Cabrini High School in
Allen Park, MI where she served as
librarian beginning in 1967.
In1995, Sr. Lucille began ministering
as a manager at John Paul Plaza, a
senior high-rise in Pittsburgh. In 2007,
she served as live-in night manager
and activity director at Marian House
Manor in Altoona, PA, until her
retirement in 2015. Although it pained
her deeply to leave this ministry, she
recognized the tell-tale signs of her
increasingly frail health. As a resident
in Holy Family Manor in Pittsburgh,
Sr. Lucille kept alive her mission of
sharing God’s love with others.
Sr. Lucille passed away on January
21 at UPMC Mercy, Pittsburgh. Her
Mass of Resurrection was celebrated
January 24 in the Holy Family Manor
Chapel.
Sr. M. Alma
(Leokadia
“Lillian”) Bak
November 26,
1920 – February
28, 2020
Those who knew Sr. Alma were aware
of her great sense of humor. She
loved telling jokes. During the last
few years of her life, when the sisters
would get together for celebrations
at Nazarethville, it was Sr. Alma’s
responsibility to come prepared with
at least three jokes.
14

Born on November 26, 1920 to
Ottilia and Alexander Bak in Chicago,
Leokadia “Lillian” was the fourth of
five children. In seventh grade, she
heard a sister share stories about
Africa and Asia which inspired her to
want to become a missionary so she
could convert the masses. Leokadia
responded to God’s call and entered
our Congregation in July 1940. She
professed her first vows on August 1,
1943, the same day the eleven sisters
of Nowogrodek were martyred.
Sr. Alma began teaching in 1943. She
later earned a bachelor’s degree from
De Paul University, Chicago. Sr. Alma
served in many parish schools in the
Archdiocese of Chicago, including
St. Ann, St. Casimir, St. Hedwig, St.
Andrew, St. Adalbert, St. Josaphat, St.
Ladislaus, and St. Hyacinth, as well as
at St. Adalbert in Whiting, IN. Sr. Alma
brought joy, comfort, and love to all
those around her and inspired many
with her incredible faith.
She was small in stature, but with the
heart of a giant. Sr. Alma would have
celebrated 80 years in religious life
this year.
Sr. Alma passed away quietly and
peacefully at Nazarethville in Des
Plaines, IL while resting on the
afternoon of February 28. Her wake
and funeral were held on March 5 in
Des Plaines.
Sr. Donna Marie
Davis
August 31, 1948 –
March 10, 2020
Donna Marie was
the fourth of Agnes
and Paul Davis’ ten children. Born on
August 31, 1948 in Cincinnati, OH, she
was baptized at St. Anthony Church
and retained a special devotion to St.
Anthony all of her life. Donna grew
up in a home where religion was a
priority. It was during these growing-
up years that she developed a sense
of caring for others as she assisted
with the care of her siblings while her
mother was ill.
Donna entered the Sisters of Our
Lady of Charity in Carrolton, OH in
1966 and remained with them for
30 years. She was given the religious
name Sr. Anthony and served at
St. John’s Villa in Carrolton, OH, a
ministry dedicated to assisting those
who are developmentally disabled.
When the Sisters of Charity were
in the process of re-organizing, Sr.
Anthony sought another community
and began the transfer process to
our community. In June of 2000, Sr.
Donna Marie professed her perpetual
vows as a Sister of the Holy Family of
Nazareth.
As a Certified Nursing Assistant
(CNA), Sr. Donna Marie enjoyed
helping everyone. Later when Sr.
Donna Marie became a resident at
Nazarethville in Des Plaines, IL, she
continued to help where she could,
especially with the sisters and those
who were dying. She didn’t want
anyone to die alone and would spend
hours praying at their bedside.
Sr. Donna Marie died peacefully
surrounded by sisters, friends, and
family on the morning of March 10.
Her funeral Mass was celebrated
March 13 at the Holy Family Convent
Chapel in Des Plaines.
Sr. M. Roselita
Bradley
August 28, 1932 –
May 9, 2020
Born in Philadelphia,
Roselita (Rose) was
the seventh of Francis and Margaret
(Lehn) Bradley’s 12 children. She
attended St. Hubert Catholic High
School in Philadelphia where she
began to realize that God was calling
her to religious life. After working for
two years, she responded to God’s call
and entered the Sisters of the Holy
Family of Nazareth on September 8,
1952 and professed her perpetual
vows on March 9, 1961.
Sr. Roselita taught at the elementary
level for several years at Saint John
Cantius School in Philadelphia; Queen
of Peace School in Ardsley, PA; and
Saint Mary School in Worcester, MA.
She then accepted a teaching position
at Nazareth Academy in Philadelphia.
She was a graduate of Holy Family
University and Villanova University.
During the summer of 1983, Sr.
Roselita was elected secretary general
of the congregation. During her nine
year term, she was present for the
Beatification of Blessed Mary of Jesus
the Good Shepherd, the introduction
of the Cause for Canonization
of Sister M. Stella and her Ten
Companions, and the visit of Saint
John Paul II to the Generalate.
At the conclusion of her term
of office, Sr. Roselita returned to
Nazareth Academy where she spent
the next ten years teaching and
serving as the assistant principal.
After having been blessed for many
years with excellent health, it became
necessary for Sr. Roselita to reside
at Mount Nazareth in Philadelphia to
receive the care she needed.
Her days were spent living simply,
praying for the needs of the
Congregation and of her family and
friends, and preparing for heaven.
On the evening of May 9, Sr. Roselita
passed away. Her interment was
private.
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2020
15

Sr. Stella Louise
Slomka
November 13,
1920 – May 16,
2020
Sr. Stella Louise was
born in Chicago on November 13,
1920, the third of four children to
Polish immigrant parents, Joseph and
Antonina (Sledzinska) Slomka, who
were active in the St. Adalbert parish.
On September 2, 1934, she began her
aspirancy. At the end of her last year
of high school, she was received into
the novitiate and given the name of
Edelburg. In the 1960s, she returned
to her baptismal name.
She professed temporary vows on
July 8, 1940. After a year and a half of
studying to be a nurse, she became
a student in the School of Radiology.
In 1944, she was asked to go to Texas
where she served until 1955 as an
x-ray technician in Dalhart, Wichita
Falls, and Tyler. When she returned to
the Chicago area, she studied at St.
Louis University earning a Bachelor’s
in commerce, then a Master’s in
hospital administration. She was
appointed administrator of St. Mary of
Nazareth Hospital in Chicago where
she remained for forty years.
Realizing that St. Mary’s Hospital,
built in1894, no longer met the needs
of the multi-cultural community of
the Humboldt Park/West Town
neighborhoods of Chicago, Sr. Stella
Louise began envisioning a new
16-story, 490 bed hospital. Her
proposal led to a long process with
seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Undeterred by obstacles, Sr. Stella
Louise persisted. After a long and
difficult battle, the new St. Mary
of Nazareth Hospital Center was
dedicated in January 1975. Sr. Stella
Louise’s leadership in reviving the
surrounding community is widely
recognized. Sr. Stella Louise retired in
1999.
In 2013, at the age of 92, she
decided it was time for a transfer
to Nazarethville. For the final years
of her life, she spent many hours in
prayer, reading and reflection, and
journaling. She passed away on the
morning of May 16. Her interment
was private.
Sr. M. Regina
(Helen) Jaszwinski
January 13, 1930 –
May 17, 2020
Sr. Regina had a great
devotion to Jesus
in the Blessed Sacrament and to Our
Lady. Pleasant, cheerful, optimistic, and
genuinely grateful, she was alert to
the needs of others and devoted to
helping as she could. Born in Chicago
on January 13, 1930, she was the third
of three children born to Joseph and
Anna (Cheslar) Jaszwinski. Sadly, her
two older brothers did not survive
infancy. She attended St. Adalbert
Elementary School and St. Mary High
School in Chicago.
She entered the Sisters of the Holy
Family of Nazareth in August 1948.
She taught for a year in Chicago. The
following year she was sent to Rome
to study at the Regina Mundi Institute,
during which time she also prepared
for and professed final vows. Upon
her return from Rome she was the
Director of Sisters in Temporary Vows
briefly before teaching in Chicago.
In 1968, Sister Regina was transferred
to Texas where she taught in Irving,
Fort Worth, and Dallas. After six
years, she returned to teaching in
Chicago. She retired in 2004 at the
age of seventy-four and ministered at
St. Mary of Nazareth Hospital Center
(now AMITA Health Saints Mary and
Elizabeth Medical Center) in Chicago
as a part-time receptionist for nine
years.
In 2013, at the age of 83, she
requested a transfer to Nazarethville
in Des Plaines, IL. She continued to
be active for all 90 years of her life. Sr.
Regina passed away on May 17. Her
interment was private.
16
Donations in memory of a
deceased sister may be mailed
to Development Office, Sisters
of the Holy Family of Nazareth,
310 N. River Rd., Des Plaines,
IL 60016. Please include a note
with the name of the Sister in
whose memory you are giving.
Donations may also be made
online at nazarethcsfn.org/
donate.

135 Years in the U.S.
It was Independence Day 1885 when
11 of our sisters, along with our
foundress Blessed Mary of Jesus the
Good Shepherd (Frances Siedliska),
arrived at New York Harbor, having
made a treacherous transatlantic
crossing. That evening, they boarded
the train for a two-day, cross-country
journey to serve Polish immigrants,
answering a call to serve, teach, and
care for immigrant children and their
families.
On July 4, 2020, we celebrated the
135th anniversary of our sisters
arriving in the U.S. In recognition
of this milestone and to reflect
on our beginnings in this country,
we share with you a passage from
our foundress’ diary in which she
envisioned our ministries in the U.S.:
“Here at the crib, I envisioned
America so clearly, taking root in
the spirit of the Holy Family, a spirit
of love and of the freedom of the
children of God. It seemed clear to
me that Jesus willed to transport our
work even there, so far away. There
is no love without sacrifice, but it is
a pleasant one for us, a very happy
one because it is for Jesus. It consists
in a separation without the hope of
meeting again here below. Here the
sacrifice hinges on the Kingdom of
God within us through accomplishing
His purpose and expanding His
kingdom. There, at His crib l submitted
myself and my beloved sisters.”
Our Mother Foundress seated,
center, surrounded by some of the
first CSFNs to arrive in the U.S.
DEVELOPMENT OFFICE EVENTS UPDATE
Because of restrictions in place due to Covid-19 and out of an abundance of care for the health and safety our sisters,
friends and benefactors, we will not host any in-person events this fall. Instead we will cancel, postpone, or change the
format of our events.
Below are listed changes by event:
• Morning with the Sisters, Grand Prairie, TX, September 27, 2020 – CANCELED
• Oktoberfest, Des Plaines, IL, October 11, 2020 – CANCELED
• Celebrating Sisterly Love Gala, Philadelphia, PA, October 23, 2020 – CHANGED TO A VIRTUAL EVENT
Additional information will be available soon.
• Family Day, Philadelphia, PA, November 1, 2020 – CANCELED
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2020
17

DEVELOPMENT
Thank you from our
Development Office
Looking back at 2019, it’s hard to believe how much has changed. Covid-19 has altered almost every aspect of our lives.
Things we took for granted – going to Mass each Sunday, blowing out the candle on a birthday cake, celebrating the
marriage of family members, or just enjoying the company of our family and friends – are now complicated endeavors.
Masks, social distancing, canceled events have become the norm.
What hasn’t changed in all the Covid-confusion is your generosity to our sisters. For this, we are more grateful than
we could ever express with mere words. Because of you, we can support the needs of all our sisters, so they, in turn,
may “further God’s kingdom by building communities of love and hope among ourselves and among the families of the
world…”
Every time we have asked you, our loving and faithful benefactors, for help, you came through for us. You never let us
down. For example, last year your generosity helped us replace the out-of-code fire alarm system at our Grand Prairie,
TX convent; an air handler at Mount Nazareth convent in Philadelphia, PA; and a water chiller for our Des Plaines, IL
convent.
As friends go, we couldn’t ask for any better than you! You are a gift to us – a blessing to us – and we are grateful. Please
know that our sisters keep you in their daily prayers.
We would also like to offer many, many thanks to the wonderful individuals who have served on our committees and/or
have been instrumental to the success of our fundraising events. There is truly no way to thank them enough for the time
and talents they have shared with us.
2019 Nazareth Retreat Center Committee, Southwest Area: Tim Moloney, Mary Jean Moloney, Bill Quinn, Polly
Weidenkopf, Sr. Francesca Witkowska, CSFN, Sr. Mary Louise Swift, CSFN, Sr. Rita Fanning, CSFN, Sr. Marietta Osinska,
CSFN
2019 Oktoberfest Committee: Elaine Beatovic, Irene Delgiudice, Gunther Dorth, Margaret Gorder, Dan Gott,
Michael Hoban, Jacqueline Hyzy, Jackie Pokorny, Mary Puente, Bob Neil, and Sr. Clare Marie Kozicki, CSFN .
2019 Holy Family Academy Alumnae Committee: Lydia Cabello, Margaret Gorder, Monica Hernandez, Adriana
Jimenez, Jacqueline Hyzy, Cindy Perales, Jackie Pokorny, Mary Puente, and Sr. Clare Marie Kozicki, CSFN
Income
Expenses
18

Join “Friends of the
Sisters” Monthly Giving
Program
There is now a simple, convenient and safe way for you to donate monthly to the sisters without the need to write a
check every month. First, decide on a monthly gift amount that fits your budget. Then, complete the authorization form
below, allowing your bank or credit card company to transfer this amount directly to the sisters on a monthly basis. Your
monthly gift helps support our retired sisters.
If you want to change or stop your gift, or if you move, change banks, or get a new credit card, just pick up the telephone
and call us. We can quickly make any changes. You may also visit our online donation page at nazarethcsfn.org/donate or
call Katherine Barth, development director, at 847-298-6760, ext. 143.
I WOULD LIKE TO JOIN THE “FRIENDS OF THE SISTERS”
MONTHLY GIVING PROGRAM!
I agree to make a contribution of $______ per month.
___ Please bill my credit card each month. I have provided my credit card information for my monthly donations below.
___ Please transfer my monthly gift from my checking account using the automatic payment plan. I’ve enclosed a check
for my first monthly gift.
Account No.:_________________________________ Exp. Date:_________________ Security Code:________
I authorize my bank/credit card company to transfer the amount indicated on this form from my account on a monthly basis. I
understand that a record of each donation will be included on my year-end summary and that I can cancel my donation at
any time.
____________________________________________________________ _________________
Name (signature required)
Date Signed
Name: _____________________________________ Address: ______________________________________
City: _______________________ State: ____ Zip: ______________ Email: ____________________________
Birthday:_________________
Please complete this form and return it to:
CSFN Development Office, 310 N River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016-1211
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2020
19

310 N River Rd
Des Plaines, IL 60016
www.nazarethcsfn.org
Non-profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
Paid
Des Plaines, IL
Permit No. 340
CELEBRATE WITH US!
In celebration of the 135th anniversary of the Sisters of the Holy Family
of Nazareth in the US, please save October 23, 2020 for our virtual
CSFN Gala “Celebrating Sisterly Love”! We are pleased this year to
present a special Stay-At-Home Gala where all of our friends can join
us as we show our sisters some love from the comfort of our own
homes! Please save the date for this exciting event! Can’t wait to “not
see you” there!
If you have additional questions, are interested in becoming a sponsor,
or would like to make a contribution to the event, please contact Heidi
Scheuer, assistant development director, at 847-298-6760, ext. 238 or
hscheuer@nazarethcsfn.org.
We, the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, are called to extend the Kingdom of God’s love among ourselves and
others by living the spirit of Jesus, Mary and Joseph whose lives were centered in the love of God and one another.
We witness to this love through dedicated service to the Church, especially in ministry to the family.