NC-Fall 2021

SISTERS OF
THE HOLY
FAMILY OF
NAZARETH //
VOL. 15 //
NO 2 //
FALL 2021
Nazareth
CONNECTIONS
FAMILY IS THE HEART OF OUR MISSION
Escapades
in Nazareth
STORY BEGINS ON PAGE 8

MESSAGE FROM THE PROVINCIAL SUPERIOR
Faithful Listening
AN OPPORTUNITY FOR TRANSFORMATION
Dear Friends of Nazareth,
Faithful listening transforms lives.
It is a value adopted by our Holy
Family Province that calls us to a
loyal, constant posture of attending
to ourselves, others, and God
for the purpose of hearing and
transformation.
We see faithful listening best
exemplified through the lives of the
Holy Family. Mary listens to the angel
Gabriel and responds with her “Fiat,”
becoming Mother of the Savior of the
world; Joseph hears the revelation of
the angel in his dream and leads his
family safely into Egypt; Jesus answers
His mother’s request and performs
His first miracle at the wedding feast
in Cana. What transformation can
happen when we stop to listen!
However, in our busy world, stopping
to listen can be incredibly challenging.
Our lives become overwhelmed
with tasks and obligations that
compete for our time, yet daily we
are presented moments to stop and
listen to ourselves, others, and God.
These new and old voices invite us
to discover more significant growth,
development, and openness in the
mission God sets before us each day.
In this issue, you will find articles
about our new postulant, our
new novices, the sisters who have
celebrated jubilees, and our sisters
who have journeyed on towards our
Savior. It is humbling to think of the
transformations that have happened
because they each listened and
responded. We also recognize our
faithful donors who have continued to
listen to the needs of our community
and generously responded. They have
and continue to transform the lives
of our sisters and the communities
we serve.
During this season of autumn, I pray
God’s guidance upon you to joyfully
receive His invitation to stop and
listen to yourself, to others, and to
Him. May the fruit of what you hear
enrich your lives.
In The Holy Family,
Sister Kathleen Maciej, CSFN
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 ext. 111
or vocations@nazarethcsfn.org.
2

4
VOLUME 15 //
NO 2 //
FALL 2021
8
Nazareth Connections is published
three times a year by the Sisters
of the Holy Family of Nazareth
in the USA.
Contents
VOCATION
4-5 Welcome Our
New Novices
6-7 Prayers for Our
New Postulants
6
IN MEMORIAM
16 Sr. Florence M. Klaniecki
Sr. M. Josepha (Theresa) Gagliardi
Sr. M. Bernice Andrelczyk
Sr. Mary Aquinas Tolusciak
12
Editor:
Rachel Neubauer
Proofreaders:
Sr. Mary Ellen Gemmell
Sr. Lucille Madura
Amanda Giarratano
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
REFLECTION
8-11 Escapades
in Nazareth
2021 JUBILARIANS
12 Sr. Marita Ruppe
Sr. Joanne Mary Goscicki
Sr Mary Joan Jacobs
Sr. Mary Anthony Lovezzola
Sr. M. Marcelina Mikulska
Sr. Marta Gadzinowska
DEVELOPMENT
18 Thank You from Our
Development Office
ON THE COVER:
Mount Nazareth Convent Chapel
decorated by Sister Magdalena
Tkaczyk for Jubilarian Celebration.
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, ext. 144
communications@nazarethcsfn.org
nazarethcsfn.org
facebook.com/csfn.usa
twitter.com/csfn_usa
instagram.com/csfn.usa
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2021
3

VOCATION
Welcome Our New Novices:
SR. ESPERANZA MARIE DANKS, SR. THERESE MARIE ALLEN,
SR. MOLLY BERNADETTE SPIERING, AND SR. MARY CLARE NGUYEN
“Reflecting on the holy House of
Nazareth, where Jesus, Mary, and Joseph
served the Eternal Father, and united in
thoughts, sentiments, aspirations, and in
fulfilling God’s divine will, I ask the Lord
that you may lead courageous lives of
holy unity, love, and mutual service so
that among you, like in the Holy Family
of Nazareth, love flourishes and God’s
Kingdom grows. I beg our Divine Lord,
that you remain faithful to Him, cultivate
peace, harmony, and love.”
– Blessed Mary of Jesus the Good
Shepherd from Counsels of the Heart.
On August 8 at our Provincialate in
Des Plaines, IL, our postulants Kayla
Danks, Katie Allen, Molly Spiering,
and Binh Nguyen became novices
during the Rite of Initiation into the
Novitiate. As novices, these young
women also received their religious
names. Kayla is now Sr. Esperanza
Marie; Katie is Sr. Therese Marie;
Molly is Sr. Molly Bernadette; and
Binh is Sr. Mary Clare.
During this period of their structured
discernment, the novices will work
with the novice director, Sr. Joanna
Filip, to deepen their knowledge about
the CSFN charism, spirituality, and
history. This two-year period includes
additional time for contemplation,
reflection, and structured retreats.
Sr. Esperanza Marie grew up in
Wichita Falls, TX, as one of seven
children. After attending our
discernment retreats, she found
herself drawn to our charism and
mission. Although she says she was
first attracted to religious life at nine
years old after watching “The Sound
of Music,” she became an affiliate in
2018 and a postulant in 2019.
4

Sr. Therese Marie has been actively
discerning her vocation since 2011.
Originally from Texas, she was drawn
to our Congregation because of
the holiness our sisters find within
ordinary life. With a degree in
English/Spanish education, she
previously served as an English
and Spanish teacher.
Sr. Molly Bernadette was raised on
a farm in Powell, WY, with her 10
siblings. She earned a bachelor’s
degree in theology from Christendom
College in Front Royal, Virginia. She
has been in discernment for her
vocation since October 2018.
Sr. Mary Clare is originally from
Vietnam where some of her
immediate family still lives. She has
been discerning her vocation since
2017. Inspired by our Nazareth family
and the life of our Mother Foundress,
she feels at home among our sisters.
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.
“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
Novice Director — Sr. Joanna Filip,
Sr. Therese Marie, Sr. Molly
Bernadette, Sr. Esperanza Marie,
Sr. Mary Clare, and Provincial
Superior — Sr. Kathleen Maciej.
Upon receiving the Rite of Initiation
into the Novitiate, the CSFN new
novices receive the white veil, a
CSFN crucifix, and the CSFN
Covenant of Love.
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2021
5

6
VOCATION

Prayers For Our
New Postulant
WELCOME KATIE
Surrounded by sisters, friends, and
family from across the U.S. watching
in person and on Zoom, Kaitlyn
“Katie” Shelton became a postulant
of the Sisters of the Holy Family of
Nazareth on August 14 at Jesus the
Good Shepherd Convent in Grand
Prairie, TX. Katie was welcomed
by our sisters in a formal ceremony
where she received a medal of the
Holy Family.
any and everyone.” While attending
a discernment retreat in 2018, she
sensed “a deep peace” in her heart,
which she said “rested in Jesus, the
spirit of the sisters, and their loving
hospitality.”
Katie is joined by Rebecca “Becky”
Garcia, who began her postulancy
in 2020. The young women have
entered into a period of structured
“In His infinite mercy, Jesus was always close to my
soul, I exerted myself little to think of Him. He was
drawing me continuously, reminding me of His
presence, leading me by the hand as a mother does
her child.”
—Blessed Mary of Jesus the Good Shepherd (Frances Siedliska)
Katie considers Texas her home,
but spent the first eight years of
her life living in South Carolina and
Tennessee. She graduated in 2015
from Texas Tech University where
she studied Graphic Design and
Advertising. Following graduation,
Katie worked six years in the creative
world, with the last four operating
as a graphic designer for a fast-paced
creative agency in Fort Worth, TX.
Upon encountering the Sisters of the
Holy Family of Nazareth at a retreat
for youth, Katie recounts, “I felt the
Holy Spirit tug at me the moment
I met Sr. Margo and Sr. Josephine.”
Katie became drawn to the sisters by
their “ability to create family among
discernment guided by Sr. Marietta
Osinska, Director of Postulants.
Please join us in praying for Katie
and Becky 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.
Provincial Superior — Sr. Kathleen
Maciej welcomes new postulant,
Kaitlyn Shelton.
Postulant Kaitlyn Shelton receives
a medal of the Holy Family from Sr.
Kathleen Maciej, Provincial Superior.
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2021
7

8
REFLECTION

My Escapades
in Nazareth
1898-1901
By Sr. M. Simplicia of the Cross
Editor’s Note: Sr. Mary Simplicia of
the Cross (Marian Ławecka – died
July 18, 1963) was one of the very few
who had the good fortune of meeting
our Foundress, Blessed Mary of Jesus
the Good Shepherd (Frances Siedliska).
During a visit with her eldest sister, Sr.
Pancratius, who was then a postulant at
the Precious Blood Convent in Pittsburgh,
little Marian first encountered Blessed
Mary of Jesus the Good Shepherd who
spoke with her. Marian soon followed her
sister to Nazareth, taking the name Sr. M.
Simplicia of the Cross. Several years later,
their two younger sisters, Sr. Laura and Sr.
Marinelle, joined the community, making
them the first “Nazareth Quartet” in the
history of the Congregation.
Since there was no Polish High School
in Pittsburgh, at the suggestion of
Sister M. Pancratius (my oldest sister)
who was already a professed sister,
I was sent to attend the Holy Family
Academy in Chicago where she was
stationed alongside Rev. Mother M.
Lauretta, Provincial Superior of our
province in America.
The Provincial Councils were usually
held on Saturdays because the
Councilors were the Superiors from
different homes. On these Saturdays,
a big card with the word “Rada”
(Council) was hanging on Mother
Provincial’s door. We were told
before not to pass that corridor going
up because the footsteps resounded
in Mother’s room. Instead, we were to
use the stairs on the other side of
the building.
The following excerpt comes from Sr.
Simplicia’s “My Escapades In Nazareth,”
a compilation of stories written from the
time she was a boarder attending Holy
Family Academy in Chicago. She writes,
“So it was during the time of Mother
Lauretta’s time in the Academy in
Chicago that I had all kinds of adventures,
more than any other of the girls…
I was of a very lively disposition and God
endowed me with a brilliant memory
that made me useful at times; but also
at times prone to mischief as one can
see from the following ‘Escapades.’
Enjoy reading and have a good hearty
laugh, which is so beneficial to health.”
Holy Family Academy, Chicago, IL
Sr. Mary Simplicia of the Cross,
(Marian Ławecka – died July 18, 1963)
continued on next page...
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2021
9

It just happened that I was in a hurry,
as usual, running up the forbidden
stairway. To my great embarrassment,
there stood Mother Provincial at
the post on the second floor. Now,
surely I will get the penance for being
disobedient. One could imagine my
relief when Mother said, “How good
that you came here for I have been
waiting quite a while for someone
to go for Mr. Kiolbassa and ask him
kindly to come to the Academy, right
now.” Overjoyed that there was no
penance for such disobedience, truly I
did not hear exactly what Mother was
saying; all I heard was “Kiolbassa” – so
I ran as quickly as I could through the
alleys to Noble Street to our butcher.
The store was full of women buying
meat for Sunday. Knowing that
Mother was in a hurry, I asked Mr.
Pstrong, the butcher, to wait on me
because Mother sent me for sausage.
Surprised, Mr. Pstrong stopped his job,
looked at me searchingly, and asked,
“For whom does Mother want the
sausages? You people don’t eat meat
on Saturdays.” So, I answered, “I know,
but there is a Council today, so I think
those Councilors will eat meat.” Then
he asked, “What kind of sausages
does Mother want?” Naturally, I did
not know what kind, so I answered
hesitantly, “Perhaps the same as usual.”
The butcher said, “Sr. Monica, the
cook, always takes the frankfurters
for Sunday supper.” So, I said, “Then,
please give me the frankfurters.” But
the butcher had one more question
to ask, “How many pounds of these
do you want?” Well, that was the
limit! All these questions and I am in
a hurry, so again I said, “I think the
same as always!” Mr. Pstrong replied,
“Sr. Monica always buys 10 lbs of
these sausages.” I interrupted him
impatiently, “Please hurry and give
me 10 lbs because I am to hurry up
since Mother is waiting.” Mr. Pstrong
weighed the 10 lbs of sausages,
wrapped them up, and called his son
Bruno, a college boy, and said, “Carry
this to the Academy. It is too heavy
for her.” Our interesting dialogue,
gave a good laugh to all who were in
the store.
At the Academy door, I took the
heavy bundle, thanked Bruno, and
ran down to the kitchen. According
to the Rule, no one was allowed to
enter the kitchen, so I threw the
heavy package on the windowsill on
the kitchen door and hollered, “Sr.
Monica! Sausages!” She looked at me
questioningly and asked, “Why meat
today? This is Saturday!” My only
answer was, “I don’t know. Mother
told me to bring it, so here it is!” I
then ran upstairs, again on the same
forbidden stairs, and Mother was
standing at the post as I left her.
“Already?” “Yes, Mother, and in the
kitchen!” Mother looked at me and
said, “What is he doing in the kitchen?”
And I said, “That’s not he, that’s
sausages!” She then asked, “Where
have you been?” So, I answered, “At
the butcher shop!” I was positive
that Mother could not control her
laughter that day, but she tried to be
stern and said, “Go back, but not to
the butcher, to Mister Kiolbassa”—
the rest was again lost on me, for I
quickly answered “Yes, Mother” and
ran downstairs and across the street
to the Chicago Alderman’s office.
Mr. Kiolbassa was sitting at his desk,
spectacles on the tip of his nose,
busy writing, when I dashed in and
hurriedly asked him to come to
the Academy because Rev. Mother
has some business to transact. He
looked at me and told me to sit down
until he finished his writing. Then
I interrupted him, “Oh no! Please!
Come at once because I was to
be here long before, but I went to
the butcher for sausages.” Then he
exploded with laughter. His terribly
10

loud laugh could be heard on the
street, I am sure. Calling his wife,
Harriet, he said, “This little one was
to come for me long before, but
she went to the butcher instead!”
And they both laughed. I waited
impatiently until finally, Mr. Kiolbassa
got up, put on his coat and hat, and
we both started for the Academy.
I surely looked quite small walking
alongside this giant.
Mother Provincial was already
downstairs at the door waiting for
Mr. Kiolbassa, so when we came in,
she said rather timidly that she was
waiting for him. And Mr. Kiolbassa
told her right off hand, “I know,
I know, this little one was supposed
to come for me, but she went to the
butcher for sausage.” I ran upstairs to
tell the girls my terrific mistake, and
we all had a hearty laugh. Years after,
when I became a professed, those
Superiors told me that they could not
restrain from laughing during their
Council when Mother told them of
my big mistake.
Sr. Simplicia’s younger sister Sr. Laura
Lawecka, CSFN
Sr. Simplicia’s other younger sister Sr.
Marinelle Lawecka, CSFN
Sr. Simplicia’s oldest sister, Sr.
Pancratius Lawecka, CSFN
Mother Lauretta with sisters in Des
Plaines in 1907
Mother Lauretta
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2021
11

2021 JUBILARIANS
Congratulations
TO OUR 2021 JUBILARIANS
12

SR. MARITA RUPPE
GOLDEN JUBILEE – 50 YEARS
Entered August 10, 1971
Sr. Marita first considered the religious life when she was in eighth grade and
her teacher, a CSFN sister, encouraged girls to enter following graduation.
Guided by her parents, Sr. Marita decided to attend and finish high school, but
the thought of becoming a sister remained. As she approached her early 20s,
the call to religious life surfaced again; so, she decided to explore and see if
it was meant for her. Sr. Marita discerned with several communities, but the
welcoming spirit of the CSFN Sisters made her feel at home.
With an MA in American History, and certifications in Biology, General
Science, Earth Science, Leadership, and Supervision, Sr. Marita served in the
education world for 25 years. She is a lover of Broadway and live theatre and is passionate about dance. Sr. Marita enjoys
reading, walking, and visiting art museums in her free time.
Reflecting on the past 50 years, Sr. Marita is grateful for the many sisters who helped her “discover, use, and nurture”
the talents and aspects of her personality she had not yet recognized. She is grateful for the various leadership
opportunities that have allowed her to travel throughout the United States and Europe, meeting many of the sisters
and forming relationships that continue today.
SR. JOANNE MARY GOSCICKI
GOLDEN JUBILEE – 50 YEARS
Entered September 8, 1971
Sr. Joanne Mary Goscicki credits entering religious life to her parents and
the sisters who taught her in elementary and high school. She recalls, “After
Vatican II, some of the CSFN Sisters held classes for parishioners who wanted
to learn more about the decrees and what they meant to us.” Through
attending the classes, Sr. Joanne Mary’s vocation was aflame.
A loving and attentive individual, Sr. Joanne Mary is also known for her great
sense of humor. She is a graduate of Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT,
and Quinnipiac College in Hamden, CT, where she earned a BS in Physical
Therapy. Sr. Joanne has known the titles of Teacher, Physical Therapist,
Development Director, and Provincial Treasurer. She is the Business Manager at St. Stanislaus Kostka Academy in
Brooklyn, NY, where she has served for the past 17 years.
“In looking back at my years in the community,” she says, “I have been blessed in so very many ways. Thanks to the
many joys, ups and downs, and ministries I have served... I always try to encounter people as they are and treat them as
Christ would, in a Spirit of Love.”
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2021
13

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2021 JUBILARIANS CONTINUED...
SR. MARY JOAN JACOBS
GOLDEN JUBILEE – 50 YEARS
Entered September 8, 1971
It was a desire to grow into a deeper relationship with God in a community
setting that led Sr. Mary Joan Jacobs to enter the religious life. She was drawn
to CSFN’s sense of community and willingness to serve others, and for the past
50 years, she has done just that.
A caring, resilient academic, Sr. Mary Joan currently serves as an Assistant
Professor of English at Holy Family University. Serving students ranging from
pre-K3 through college over the years, she is dedicated to nurturing their
growth and always challenging her students towards excellence.
Holding not only a BA and MA in English but also a Doctorate of Education in Educational Administration, Sr. Mary
Joan has served in a number of schools, including: St. John Cantius, St. Mary of Czestochowa, Nazareth Academy High
School, all in Philadelphia; St. Brendan in Miami, FL; Visitation BVM in Trooper, PA; and St. Kunegunda in McAdoo, PA.
In her free time, Sr. Mary Joan enjoys reading, writing, serving in ministry with her students’ families, and teaching CCD
to third-grade students preparing for Reconciliation and First Communion. She believes the most rewarding aspect of
religious life is being able to deepen her relationship with God through community and working with her students.
SR. MARY ANTHONY LOVEZZOLA
SILVER JUBILEE – 25 YEARS
Entered August 15, 1996
Born and raised by parents whose faith was tangible, Sr. Mary Anthony
Lovezzola attributes their everyday actions of how they treated others, dealt
with adversity, and reached out to those in need as the seeds to her vocation.
Her desire for religious life continued to be nurtured by the example of
her first-grade teacher, Sr. Paula Tinlin, SNDdeN, whose love of God and
gentleness left a lasting impression. During her college years, Sr. Mary Anthony
participated in volunteer work in Haiti and Guatemala. The significance that
amid great poverty rose a joyful love of family among the people challenged her
ideals and what she valued. Moved by this witness, she surrendered to God,
praying, “My heart is open to You, help me to do Your will.”
Sr. Mary Anthony desired to share the love she experienced from her family with others in ministry and community and
was drawn to the CSFN Sisters. She currently serves as an educator at Christ the King School in Philadelphia, PA, where
she teaches seventh- and eighth-grade science, math, and religion. “The Kingdom of God is within,” she said.
“We are filled with faith so that we may, in turn, share it with others.”
14

SR. M. MARCELINA MIKULSKA
SILVER JUBILEE – 25 YEARS
Entered August 26, 1996
For Sr. Marcelina Mikulska, being a sister is a precious gift of life that God, the
Giver of Life, calls us to cooperate with Him. Attributing her discernment of
religious life to Divine Providence and the faith of her parents, brothers, and
grandparents, Sr. Marcelina prayed to the Blessed Virgin to show her God’s
plan and credits the Blessed Mother with leading her to Nazareth. Sr. Marcelina
recalls, “I was captivated by the sisters’ faithfulness and authenticity.”
Sr. Marcelina obtained a Master’s in Counseling and Psychology and currently
serves in the following; as a counselor for Catholic Social Services in the
Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Rachel’s Vineyard, the world’s largest ministry
for healing after abortion; Grief to Grace, healing the wounds of abuse ministry; and teaches at St. John Cantius Polish
Language School in Philadelphia, PA.
“I love to accompany people as they experience the mercy and compassion of God,” said Sr. Marcelina. “In my
ministries, it is very rewarding to observe every person as they journey through the Paschal Mystery of life with
compassionate reverence, dignity, and worth, which is given to us by Jesus Christ.”
SR. MARTA GADZINOWSKA
SILVER JUBILEE – 25 YEARS
Entered August 26, 1996
“It was the realization that God was calling me to be a religious sister,” recalls
Sr. Marta Gadzinowska. “I did not decide on it, I discovered the call in my
heart, and once I did, I followed it.” An avid Chicago Bears and Blackhawks
fan, Sr. Marta currently serves as a Certified Medical Interpreter, where she
provides language services via phone or video. “I see myself living out our
Nazareth charism by trying to fulfill my daily responsibilities to the best of my
ability, remembering that even the smallest and humblest things have a great
value when performed as an act of love for God and others.”
Deeply passionate about her vocation, Sr. Marta shares, “The experience
of community, the Holy Family as their life model, and the simplicity of it all led me to the CSFN Sisters. The fact
that we CSFN Sisters are called to celebrate and live the spirit of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph — the reality of God’s
presence in ordinary and simple aspects of human life — is a great mystery that is so profound, yet so attainable,”
she said. “Discovering it for the past 25 years has been one of the greatest blessings and adventures of my life.”
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2021
15

In Memoriam
Sr. Florence M.
Klaniecki
November
22, 1925 –
February
24, 2021
Florence Klaniecki
was born in
Pittsburgh on November 22, 1925,
to Matthew and Laura (Nuszkiewicz)
Klaniecki. She was baptized at the
former Saints Cyril and Methodius
Church in McKees Rocks,
Pennsylvania and attended Saints
Cyril and Methodius School, staffed
by the Sisters of the Holy Family of
Nazareth. She completed her high
school education at Miles Bryan
High School.
Florence became a postulant in 1944
and entered the novitiate in St. Joseph
Province on June 24, 1945, receiving
the name Sr. Mary Eugene. She later
returned to her baptismal name. After
completing two years of novitiate,
she professed her temporary vows in
1947. She prepared for her perpetual
commitment in Albano, Italy, and
made her final vows on June 29, 1953.
Sr. Florence began her ministry
teaching at Immaculate Heart of
Mary School in Pittsburgh and at St.
Stanislaus School and in Our Lady of
Czestochowa School in Cleveland,
OH. In 1966, Sister returned to the
Provincialate to serve as a provincial
councilor, as school supervisor, and
dean of studies for the, then, St.
Joseph Province.
Sr. Florence was instrumental in
developing our Associate program in
the St. Joseph Province centralized in
Pittsburgh. From 1971 through 1974,
she served as one of the Pittsburgh
diocesan educational consultants.
Concurrently with this role, she
began doctoral studies at the
University of Pittsburgh. In 1990, Sr.
Florence served as director of Mt.
Nazareth Learning Center. With
nearly a half-decade ministering in
education, she inspired countless
students to be life-long learners.
Though she left the education
ministry in 1996, her kindness and
compassion for others continued. She
served wherever she was needed,
including being a chaplain for elderly
residents at HCR Manor Care and
patient advocate at Mercy Hospital,
both in Pittsburgh.
Sr. M. Josepha
(Theresa)
Gagliardi
November
12, 1938 –
May 17, 2021
On November
12, 1938, Santina
and Floyd Gagliardi welcomed a baby
girl whom they named Theresa. Soon
after, Theresa was baptized at Our
Lady of Loreto Church in Southwest
Philadelphia. Once enrolled at St.
Mary of Czestochowa parish school,
Theresa met the Sisters of the Holy
Family of Nazareth, whose profound
influence on her began in her early
education. Theresa was always a good
student and a fine musician from a
young age. She graduated from West
Catholic High School for Girls in 1956
and found herself even more sure of
her budding vocation.
Theresa became a postulant on
September 8, 1956. Upon entering
the novitiate, she received the name
Josepha, a name that held profound
meaning for her throughout her
lifetime. She made her final vows on
August 8, 1965.
Having earned a bachelor’s degree in
education from Holy Family College
in Philadelphia and a master’s in
history from the University of
Scranton in Scranton, PA, Sr. Josepha
was already well underway as an
exceptional classroom teacher. She
ministered at Our Lady of Calvary
parish school, Cardinal Dougherty
High School, Nazareth Academy High
School, and Archbishop Ryan High
School for Girls, all in Philadelphia.
She retired from her education
ministry in 2013.
Always found to be laughing at a
good joke, Sr. Josepha was sensitive
by nature, a woman of principle,
and a private person by all accounts.
From her personality, uniquely
her own, flowed so many gifts for
others, each refined over a lifetime
of generous giving. She was at home
in the kitchen, where her cooking
and baking for the sisters through
the years was a sheer joy for her.
Her listening presence to those
who would confide in her is fondly
remembered. It was a loving and loyal
sense of family that motivated her
relationships with her own family,
community, and friends alike as, when
asked, she readily assisted others with
whatever was needed.
16

Sr. M. Bernice
Andrelczyk
April 22, 1933 –
June 3, 2021
Sr. Bernice was a
simple, intelligent,
loving person
with a Nazareth
heart. She loved learning, reading,
and helping others. Dedicated to her
family, she kept in touch with them,
supporting them in prayer.
Born on April 22, 1933, in Throop,
PA, Helen Mary was the daughter of
Anthony and Sabina Andrelczyk, an
immigrant family from Poland. She
had four sisters and two brothers.
Baptized on May 7, 1933, at St.
Anthony Church in Throop, she was
graced to be part of a family that had
strong religious beliefs.
Helen attended the local elementary
parish school, and later, St. Paul’s High
School in Scranton. Upon graduation,
she became a postulant in 1950.
When she entered the novitiate, she
received the name Sr. Mary Bernice.
She professed her first vows in 1953
and her perpetual vows in 1959.
Sr. Bernice began her dedicated
service in education first in Brooklyn,
NY, as a first-grade teacher, and
later at Nazareth Academy Grade
School in Philadelphia. She was always
recognized for her ability to assist
children in their own growth and
development.
In 1959, Sr. Bernice earned her
bachelor’s degree from Holy Family
College and was immediately assigned
to teach there. She completed a
master’s degree at the University
of Detroit and continued her studies
at Wayne State University, where
she received a PhD in Chemistry.
From 1972 till 1989, Sr. Bernice
resumed full-time teaching at Holy
Family College where she encouraged
students to pursue degrees in
the sciences.
After 30 years at the college, she
accepted an assignment to serve
as the home and school liaison to
Saint Mary’s Villa in Ambler. She also
pursed a degree in pastoral counseling
at Newman College in Aston, PA.
When Saint Mary’s Villa closed, she
was transferred to Our Lady of
Calvary in Philadelphia, where she
continued to work in support
services to needy students struggling
with math.
In retirement, Sr. Bernice loved to
cook, do puzzles, and play games on
the computer. She was a homebody
who enjoyed doing the simple tasks
that made community life easier
for others.
Sister Mary
Aquinas
Tolusciak
April 14, 1917-
July 19, 2021
Cecilia Tolusciak
was born on
April 14, 1917, in
the Polish Hill section of Pittsburgh.
Her parents, Basil and Theophilia
(Bielewicz), presented Cecilia for
baptism at Immaculate Heart of Mary
Church. Raised in Pittsburgh, she
attended Immaculate Heart of Mary
School and was a member of the
historic parish on Polish Hill, one of
the city’s oldest and largest churches.
Before graduating from Mount
Nazareth Academy and entering the
Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth,
she was a young athlete. She excelled
at basketball and tennis and developed
a teamwork principle that would
guide her entire life. Cecilia became a
Postulant on November 5, 1933, was
given the name Sr. Mary Aquinas as a
novice on July 16, 1934, and professed
her perpetual vows July 16, 1942.
Sr. Aquinas began preparing herself
for a life of service in education,
earning a bachelor’s degree at Villa
Maria College, a theology degree
at Carlow College, and a master’s
from Duquesne University. She did
graduate work at the University of
Notre Dame, Ohio University, and the
University of Rochester. She taught
32 years in schools in Pennsylvania,
Ohio, and Michigan. She gained
guidance counselor certification in
Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Michigan
and served at Bishop Guilfoyle High
School, Altoona PA, as a guidance
counselor and assistant principal. In
1974, Sr. Aquinas left education and
became part of Mercy Hospital, where
she served for the next 40 years.
Mercy Hospital became Bon Secours-
Holy Family, and is now UPMC,
Altoona. While the name changed,
two things remained the same — a
dedication to community healthcare
and Sr. Aquinas. She was 97 years old
when she retired in November 2014
and joined her sisters at Holy Family
Manor in Pittsburgh.
Much more could be said for a
dedicated life of 88 years as a Sister
of the Holy Family of Nazareth and
104 years celebrating life. However,
it was always Sr. Aquinas’ wish that
at the time of her death, there be no
fanfare and no long words about her
life of service. She wanted simplicity
and privacy. In life, she never sought
publicity or popularity. In death, she
wanted the same.
She passed away on July 19, 2021.
Her Mass of the Resurrection was
celebrated on July 28.
NAZARETH CONNECTIONS // FALL 2021
17

DEVELOPMENT
Thank You From Our
Development Office
In looking back at 2020, despite dealing with the pandemic and all that it entailed, we realize how much we have to be
grateful for: our families, our health, our friends… the list could go on and on! We are also grateful for each and every
one of you, our generous friends and benefactors. Because of you, we were able to renovate the Sister’s section of Holy
Family Manor, Pittsburgh. You also helped us replace the chapel carpet in our Grand Prairie, TX, convent and replace a
smaller air handler at Mount Nazareth convent in Philadelphia. In short, because you are so very generous, we were able
to meet ALL the needs of ALL of our sisters throughout the year!
Each time we asked you, our loving and faithful benefactors, for help, you came through for us. You never let us down.
Throughout the years, you have not only become a part of our history, but a deep part of our lives. You are a gift to
us — a blessing to us — and we are thankful! Please know that our Sisters keep you in their daily prayers. We would
also like to offer many thanks to the wonderful individuals who have served on our committees and all those who 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.
2020 Nazareth Retreat Center Committee, Southwest Area: Tim Moloney, Mary Jean Moloney, Bill Quinn,
Polly Weidenkopf, Sister Francesca Witkowska, CSFN, Sister Mary Louise Swift, CSFN, Sister Rita Fanning, CSFN, Sister
Marietta Osinska, CSFN, and Katherine Barth.
2020 Oktoberfest Committee: Elaine Beatovic, Irene Delgiudice, Gunther Dorth, Margaret Gorder, Dan Gott,
Michael Hoban, Jacqueline Hyzy, Jackie Pokorny, Mary Puente, Bob Neil, and Sister Clare Marie Kozicki, CSFN.
2020 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.
2020 Province Financials
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
on this page, 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.
To join “Friends of the Sisters,” complete and mail the form on this page, visit our website and click “Donate,” or call
Katherine Barth, Development Director, at 847-298-6760, ext. 143. 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 or email your request to
kbarth@nazarethcsfn.org. We can quickly make any changes necessary.
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 2021
19

310 N River Rd.
Des Plaines, IL 60016
www.nazarethcsfn.org
Non-profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
Paid
Rockford, IL
Permit No. 2495
ORDER OPLATKI FOR YOUR
CHRISTMAS EVE CELEBRATION
We are once again pleased to offer our friends and family oplatki for the
Christmas season. Oplatki (“oplatek” is the singular form) are paper-thin
wafers of unleavened bread embossed with symbols from the Christmas
story. Our oplatki (2 x 4 inches) are baked by our Sisters in Nowogrodek,
Belarus. This symbol of unity is made available to you with the sincere
prayer that you will find peace of mind and heart as you recall the sacred
mystery of the Nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ, born of the Blessed
Virgin Mary.
You may order these special wafers by calling our Development Office at
847-298-6760 ext. 137, or online at nazarethcsfn.org/donate/request-oplatki.
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.