Sisters of Christian Charity —Western Province

Vol. XII, No.2 Winter 2006-2007

A Reason To Rejoice

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InspiringI love the last issue of BREAD BROKEN.

Reading about the Sisters in New Orleans was inspiring. It’s hard to imagine what it was like there. I have so many good memoriesof your Sisters in Resurrection (St. Louis).Sr. Madeleine and I, as well as several of theparishioners, still correspond. Sr. Rose Wilmaand I sang together in the funeral choir andperformed in the parish “talent” show.Sr. Teresilda looks wonderful–seventy five years is amazing.

Doris JungSt. Louis, MO

Visits & MemoriesThe article and picture of

Maria Immaculata Conventbrought back manymemories of visits with Sr. Elizabeth Hildebrand.She was so proud of being aSister of Christian Charity.

Marian KohlRio Rancho, NM

Memories ForeverI went to Mallinckrodt

High School, class of ’56.I enjoy the magazine and the news of the Motherhouse. My heart is sad,but the wonderful memories are forever.

Nancy Werner JohnsonSalem, WI

Privileged VisitLove BREAD BROKEN! It’s so well done.

Thoroughly enjoyed “Pieces of Memory”.I was privileged to visit Wilmette some Yearsago. It was a dream come true. I had hopedfor years I would some day have theopportunity. I have many pictures which I will always treasure. God bless you all! You will always be near to my heart.

Betty TrendeChaska, MN

Treasured IssueI will treasure this issue of your magazine.

Thank you.Gail Elaine HarwoodEvanston, IL

Meeting Marie De Tarnowski Your summer issue was great like all

your magazines. Marie De Tarnowski was a wonderful lady. She was so good to Sr. Philomene and my mother on her visitsthere. She always told Sister she wanted tosee me when I was in Wilmette. I rememberoften having tea or a snack at her home. Sheis now with her many Sister friends in heaven.

Shirley PhillipsBradenton, FL

Feel the LoveThe Summer issue of BREAD BROKEN

brought back many, many memories of Maria Immaculata Convent and the year I

spent there. I read every wordand could almost feel the lovethat went into it, especially in“Pieces of Memory.” It is verywell done. Congratulations!

Sr. M. Pierre Koesters, SCCMendham, NJ

An Impressed ReaderWhat a delight it was to

receive the latest issue ofBREAD BROKEN. I am soimpressed with the talents and

fine work of Kenneth Kaufman, Sr. Anastasia,Sr. Mary Ann Warwick, and Sr. Virginia. Thismagazine is worthy of high praise I wasespecially pleased to read the account whichArlene Kmieciak wrote concerning her manyyears of volunteering as a “Companion ofPauline”. I first met Arlene, and her husbandHank during one of my visits with JunePlamondon at Sacred Heart Convent.They were both involved in manicuring thegrounds of the convent. Later I learned aboutHank’s heart attack from which he recovered.May I conclude from reading Arlene’s columnthat Hank is deceased?

William SchmidtPoulsbo, WA

Publisher’s Note:No, William, Hank is not dead. He is, in fact,working hard to earn the award of being “The World’s Greatest Golfer”.

Dear Friends,

The expectation of the beautiful feast of Christmas is already in the air–the feast of God’s loving gift to us. And, as we look forward to and celebrate this feast, BREAD BROKEN wishes to thankGod for a special gift He gave to our magazine fourteen years ago.

On page 18 of this issue, you will find the small obituary account of Sr. M.Hilary Hacker. When the first issue ofBREAD BROKEN came from the print-er in the Spring of 1992, Sr. M. Hilaryaccepted the task of distributing the mag-azine to the list of readers whose nameshad been submitted by the Sisters of theprovince. With a crew of volunteersdrawn from the residents of theMotherhouse, she affixed address labels,sorted the magazines into bundles accord-ing to city, state and zipcode, drew up thenecessary forms, and saw that the maga-zines were delivered to the post office formailing.

For the next fourteen years, Sister developed this procedure into a well-ordered machine, and although therewere fewer Sisters able to help with thistask, they could complete the mailing inone day (by this time everything wasbeing done in the lower level of SacredHeart Convent, with Sr. MariaImmaculata as Sister’s valuable assistant).Sr. M. Hilary brought to this task aremarkable degree of organization andmanagement skills, using them with great respect for each helper, meetingevery effort with patience, gratitude andpraise. The Fall issue of 2005 was her lastmailing.

All of us are most grateful for her giftto BREAD BROKEN and to us. She ismissed, but we already feel the power ofher prayers for us. Well done, and thankyou, Sr. Hilary.

Around the TableA note from the Publisher

Bread Broken2041 Elmwood Ave.Wilmette, Illinois 60091

Bread Broken Magazine is published twice a year by the Sisters of Christian Charity—WesternProvince. The publication aims to be asource of information for the Sisters,their families, friends and benefactorson the work of the Sisters of ChristianCharity among God’s people.

Our Mission…

As Sisters of Christian Charity,our life’s purposeis to glorify Godby letting the love of Christ so permeate and fill usthat our love overflowsto all in our service of the Church.We desireto witness to and share in the mission of Jesus by being bread broken and wine poured out for the world.

—Sisters of Christian Charity-Mission Statement

Sr. Virginia KuhnPublisher

Kenneth Kaufman, Ed.DEditor

Sr. Anastasia SanfordSr. Mary Ann Warwick

Associate Editors

Your Design SourceGraphic Design & Layout

Photo Credits: Photos were provided by the Archives of the Western Province unless otherwise indicated.

Contributors: Sr. Virginia Kuhn, Sr. Carol Bredenkamp, Sr. Monica Cormier, Sr. Irma Dreger, Sr. MaryClement Eiden, Sr. Carolyn Eultgen, Sr. Mary Ann Eultgen, Sr. M. Mercedes Johnson, Sr. SusanneKullowitch, Sr. Anastasia Sanford, Sr. Caroline Schafer, Sr. Pauline Schafer, Sr. Mary Ann Schwer, Sr. MaryAnn Warwick, Sr. Delphine Wedmore, Shirley Phillips.

8 Witnesses of Hope

12 In & Around the Province

14 Sharing Pauline’s Vision

15 Companions of Pauline

16 Your Future and Ours

17 SCC’s Around the World

18 Keeping in Touch

19 Legacy of Love

4 A ReasonTo Rejoice

10 Our Hope for the Future

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T he closing ceremony took place at 2:30 p.m. in the Ward Library at Sacred Heart MajorSeminary in Detroit, Michigan.

Adam Cardinal Maida, who had just returned from a journey in Europe, was able to greet the group in the librarybefore returning to another gathering at the seminary.Cardinal Maida had initiated the investigation on April 6,2006. Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling, Bishop of Lansing, wasin attendance and the solemn ceremony was presided over

by Most Rev. Earl Boyea,Auxiliary Bishop of Detroit. Also in attendance were themembers of the Tribunal (Rev. Joseph Fox, OP,Episcopal Delegate; Rev. Ronald T. Browne,Promoter of Justice; BruceBauer, MD, Medical Expert;Mr. Michael Trueman,Notary; and Mary Erdman, transcriber-typist-copier).Rev. Msgr. Robert J.McClory, Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Detroit, Sr. Mary Clement Eiden, Sr. Pauline Schafer, andFather Denis Spitzley, priestof the Diocese of Lansingand well-known promoter of Blessed Pauline's cause.

Prayers, Oaths and ProceedingsAs participants entered the library, they were asked to sign

a roster of attendees that became part of the acts submittedto the Holy See as well as those that will be permanentlykept in the archives of the Archdiocese of Detroit. TheTribunal members then presented three large binders: oneentitled “original acts” and two exact copies. The proceedingsopened with Bishop Boyea leading the assembly in theLitany of Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt—a reminder ofthe many ways in which this great woman served the Lordand her neighbor. The Notary then began reading the pre-pared text of the closing session. Bishop Boyea and Fr.Browne formally inspected the documents. Fr. Fox then tookan oath, in Latin, stating he would hand deliver the twocopies to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in Rome.

Packing and Sealing “Presents”Then, two boxes were placed on the table. Into one box

went the documentation (two binders) destined for the Holy See and into the other the original acts for permanentstorage in the archives of the Archdiocese of Detroit. A relic

May 30, 2006–A very special day inthe history of our Congregation! Thiswas the day of the solemn conclusionof an investigation of an alleged miracle attributed to the intercessionof Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt.

Mary Erdman places one set of documentationin the box as Mr. Michael Trueman stands readyto assist. Note the thickness of the binder!

A Reason to Rejoice

The novena/prayer booklets that were used at the opening and closing of the sealingceremony. One of these booklets was placed in the box with the original documentation.The pen in this picture was used to sign the roster of attendees and other pertinent documents. This pen has the name of John Paul II inscribed on it and Mr. MichaelTrueman thought it appropriate to use this particular pen for the occasion because Pope John Paul II had declared Mother Pauline “Blessed” in 1985.

and a medal of Blessed Pauline and the book, The WomanWho Couldn't Be Stopped, were placed in the box for theArchdiocesan Archives. The boxes were wrapped in brownpaper, taped securely and bound with red ribbon. Althoughthis was done with a degree of solemnity, someone com-mented that the procedure was reminiscent of wrappingChristmas presents!

Michael Trueman prepared red sealing wax by melting it in a large silver spoon. Once heated into liquid, the wax waspoured over the ends of the ribbon. Bishop Boyea then

impressed his Coatof Arms into thewax and all waitedin anticipation tosee if the impressionwould come outclear and intact. Theseals looked perfect!The one and one-half inch marblecylinder embossedwith the Bishop'sCoat of Arms wasspecially ordered forthe occasion. It wasexplained to thosein attendance thatonly the Archbishopof Detroit couldauthorize that theseal be broken on thebox containing theoriginal acts retainedby the Archdiocese of

Detroit. Only after confirming that theseal was intact on the “Roman” boxwould the Congregation for the Causes ofSaints authorize that it could be opened.

Bishop Boyea closed the ceremony withthe prayer for the canonization of BlessedPauline. A reception and champagne toast followed this auspicious occasion.

A Marvellous ExperienceSr. Mary Clement was impressed by all

the diligence and care that went into theinvestigation. Evidence of such was thefact of 580 pages in the original docu-mentation, as well as the two exact copiesof all the material that were prepared forthe Congregation for the Causes of Saints.She was also touched by Mr. Trueman'sthoughtfulness in supplying a special penfor the occasion, a pen inscribed with thename of John Paul II, who had beatified

Mother Pauline in 1985. Sister was also excited about thefact that Mary Erdman had had an aunt who lived on Forest

Avenue in Wilmette! Small world!Sr. Pauline, who had been interviewed during the investi-

gation, was delighted to be at its closing. Sister said (and youcould hear the enthusiasm in her voice): “I was honored to

The boxes were wrapped in brown paper cut to size and ready for the occasion...

... and Mr. Michael Trueman tapes the proper paperto the boxes. continued on page 6

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Mary Erdman ties the red ribbon around one of the boxes of documentation as Fr. Joseph Fox, O.P. looks on.

Bishop Boyeaimprints his sealon the wax. Oncethe seal is inplace, the onlyperson permittedto break that seal in Detroit is the currentArchbishop of theArchdiocese ofDetroit and, inRome, the personin charge of thecanonizationprocess.

continued from page 5

The ceremony closes with the prayer for the canonization of Mother Pauline.

A Reason to Rejoice

6 Bread Broken Winter 2006

be at the ceremony. I never dreamed that somethinglike this would happen—it was a marvelous experience.” Sr. Pauline was also impressed to thinkthat all these people got involved in our communityand were so willing and eager to be a part of this cause so dear to us. Sr. Pauline is Directress of theCompanions of Pauline, and Judy Barrett, the recipientof the alleged miracle, is a Companion.

Fr. Spitzley's joy knew no bounds; he was radiant. “It warms my heart to know that the charism ofMother Pauline is being made known–that is reasonenough to rejoice!”

Father had packed up materials about MotherPauline and distributed them to those at the ceremonywho did not already have them. Bishop Mengelingdubbed Fr. Spitzley as “Mother Pauline's greatest cheerleader!” Indeed,he certainly is–so dedicated to Mother Pauline and her cause.

After the ceremony, Fr. Spitzley and the two Sisters went to Owossoto visit Judy Barrett and her husband. They shared with them the joyof the occasion, as well as some of the champagne and refreshmentsthat Mary Erdman had packed up so carefully. The bouquet of flowersthat had been on the reception table was presented to Judy.

Fr. Fox went to Rome on June 9. The documentation is now in thehands of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, which will determine the authenticity of the alleged miracle and the intercessionof Blessed Pauline. On June 28, 2006, Sr. M. Adalberta Mette(Superior General) received information from Dr. Ambrosi, the postulator for the cause, that Mother Pauline's canonization processhad been officially opened in Rome. Ambrosi highly praised themembers of the Tribunal in Detroit. He felt they had done excellentwork in a very short time.

Now, we once again follow Mother Pauline's example and entrustall to the Lord: “Leave everything to God! Here all is in safest hands!”(1846)

Mr. Michael Trueman pours the sealing wax over the red ribbon held in place by Mary Erdman.

Contributors to this article:Mr. Michael Trueman,Sr. Mary Clement Eiden,Sr. Pauline Schafer.Photos courtesy of Don Gallio.

All who were present at the Sealing Ceremony are shown. On the table are the two boxes containing all of the documen-tation regarding the investigation into an alleged miracle through the intercession of Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt.The box on the left contains two copies of all of the documentation and is destined for Rome. The box was sent by courierto Rome and was delivered at the Congregation for the Causes of Saints by Rev. Joseph Fox, O.P. on June 9. The box on theright contains the originals of the documentation adn will be kept in the archives of the Archdiocese of Detroit. Seated:Sr. Mary Clement Eiden, provincial, and Sr. Pauline Schafer, witness called upon during the investigation.Standing:Bruce Bauer, MD, Medical Expert; Fr. Denis Spitzley, Companion of Pauline instrumental in urging the investigation into thealleged miracle; Msgr. Robert McClory, Chancellor, Archdiocese of Detroit; Rev. Ronald T. Browne, Tribunal - Promoter ofJustice; Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling, Bishop of Lansing; Bishop Earl Boyea, Auxiliary Bishop of Detroit and presider;Rev. Joseph Fox, O.P., Tribunal - Episcopal Delegate; Mary Erdman, transcriber, typist and copier; Mr. Michael Truemann -Assistant Chancellor, Archdiocese of Detroit, and Tribunal-Notary.

A glass of champagne to raise a toast at the completion of the investigation.

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“I was honored to beat the ceremony. I never dreamed that something likethis would happen–it was a marvelous experience.”

– Sr. Pauline Schafer

Judy Barrett, the recipient of the alleged miracle, isa Companion of Pauline.

The sealed box of documentation to be keptin the archives of the Archdiocese of Detroit.

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Turning onto Highway 21 in the small village ofCimarron, New Mexico, one can see an imposingsign on a new structure SISTER HILDEGARDE

SMITH PARISH HALL. The building and finance commit-tees, spearheaded by Sister, began in earnest long before thegroundbreaking in the spring of 2005. (See article on p. 9 in the Winter 2005-2006 issue.)

In 2004, as the reality of her dreams drew nearer, Sr. Hildegarde accompanied the parish committee to meet-ings with Archbishop Michael Sheehan and ArchdiocesanBuilding Consulters to present building plans and needs forgrants and permission to build. The Archbishop granted permission to spend no more than $425,000—a hefty sumfor this tiny parish. Sr. Marianne Schwer notes: This is atremendous amount for our very small parish whose members are in the average and low income brackets. Besides, the parishhad to help pay for the extension of St. Mel Church, renovations

of the old parish hall,parish buildings and theextensive renovations of Immaculate Conception Church.

However, as Sr. Hildegarde proudlyreminds everyone, no loan was necessary to pay off this amount. The building is debt free.

StrugglesObtaining land for the

new site was difficult withowners refusing to sell orasking too much. It wouldhave been desirable tobuild near the church, butresidential zoning and lackof space prohibited that.Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence

Rosso, parishioners, then sold sixteen lots for $45,000, a bargain hard to pass up. The Archdiocese secured a grant of$30,000 to pay for the greater part of this purchase. A littlecloser than the old hall, it is located a mile from the church.

There were no signs of construction when Sr. Hildegardereturned to Cimarron in July of 2005. When constructionfinally began in November, there were also delays in arrival of building materials and completion of the concrete floor.Weather was also a factor in delaying construction–strongwinds over thirty-five miles an hour occurred many days–prohibiting workers from raising the prefabricated walls. It was an unusual winter with many days of high winds. Sister would drive past the construction area daily to seewhat progress, if any, had been made.

GiftsRelatives of Sr. Hildegarde donated money to cover

the expenses of furnishings. They paid for the new portable stage, the kitchen cabinets and countertops. TheMallinckrodt Alumnae Association donated money fromtheir fundraising along the years. Their donations were usedto buy chairs and a statue of St. Joseph. In order to obtain agrant from the Catholic Foundation for shelves to holdcanned goods in the food pantry, a photo of the hall had tobe submitted to the Extension Society. The Society, throughthe request of Archbishop Sheehan, gave a grant of $40,000toward the building. Martin Pavletich, an artist and excellentphotographer, took the photo. Also a former engineer, hecame each day to inspect the work on the building–truly agift of his time and talent.

Lyn Kircher, a sculptor from Colorado,contributed this beautiful life-size crucifixwhich hangs in the new hall.

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Sr. Marianne Schwer writes: Sister deserves this honor being the power behind the goal initiated almost thirteen years ago — a new parish hall. Pictured:Sr. Hildegarde Smith and Archbishop Martin Sheehan enjoy a potluck supper following the Dedication Ceremony.

Events in the HallThe first event in the completed hall took place on May

17. A group of Vietnam Veterans, taking part in the “Runfor the Wall”, stopped at the hall to be served their annualspaghetti dinner; the Cimarron Chamber of Commercesponsored the meal. Then a group called “Short Grass” usedthe hall for a concert. A couple celebrating their sixtieth wedding anniversary was given a reception by their largefamily. Two wedding receptions followed. The fundraisingcommittee held a Bingo and large raffle on September 17.On September 11, the Religious Education Program startedits new year in the hall. What a welcome relief after holdingclasses in the tiny church and the Sisters’ kitchen and livingroom the previous year (the old hall had been sold).

Dedication of the HallThe culminating event, the Dedication of the New Parish

Hall by Archbishop Michael J. Sheehan, took place onOctober 29. It was a gala event beginning with the celebra-tion of the Eucharist at 3:00 p.m. Former pastors of theparish concelebrated. Sr. Mary Clement Eiden and Sr.Rosemary Schwer came from Wilmette, IL, to take part inthe celebration. Many parishioners, relatives and friends participated. All enjoyed a potluck supper afterward.

What is Sr. Hildegarde’s proudest accomplishment? The hall is completely paid for. There is no need to borrowmoney. Sister gives St. Joseph the credit for the contributionsand funds that kept coming in throughout the years. Tothank him a statue of St. Joseph now holds a place of honorin the hall.

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In a letter to BREAD BROKEN, Sr. Carol Bredenkampwrote: On Sunday, August 6, Sr. Janice Boyer and I walked insackcloth and ashes down a Trinity Street in Los Alamos (NM)to protest Los Alamos National Lab's nuclear weapons programand the war in Iraq. Sr. Janice commented that, 61 years ago,her family was celebrating a new life (hers) while Japan wasdealing with death and destruction at the hands of the UnitedStates. It was a sobering thought for me as we continue to takelives in another war.

At Mass at Our Lady of Peace in Santa Fe on the previousevening, Fr. John Dear, SJ, was the main celebrant. During theliturgy, we had a chance to take a vow of non-violence for theday, the month, a year, a lifetime.(Readers of BREAD BROKEN will remember Fr. John Dearfrom an article about the Peace Pole which appeared on p.10in the Winter 2005-2006 issue.)

Sr. Hildegarde Smith and Sr. Marianne Schwer also attendedthe Mass but were unable to stay for the next day’s events. Fr. John and Kathy Kelly led the group of about 150 protesterson a mile-long walk down Trinity Street from the park where therally was held to the gates of the Los Alamos Lab. At 1:30 we allstopped where we were on the road and donned our sackcloth.We then sat for 30 minutes in sackcloth and ashes along the road

offering a silent prayer of repentance for the acts of violence thathave taken place around our world, and especially for the drop-ping of the nuclear bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Thegroup then returned to the park.

Due to the approach of a severe storm, Sr. Janice and I wereunable to stay for the lighting of the candles of peace thatevening. Throughout the day protesters created luminaries thatwould be launched on the pond later that evening.

The two Sisters had traveled to Cimarron, NM, to teachVacation Bible School to 25 children. They were part of agroup of teen and adult volunteers. The theme of the week-long session (July 31– August 4) was Fiesta…”and the children truly rejoiced in God’s love for them that week”commented Sr. Carol.

In Sackcloth and Ashes

After the march, the group returned to the park where the rally was held. Sr. Janice Boyerand Sr. Carol Bredenkamp model their garments of sackcloth.

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Wilmette is a suburb north ofChicago. It is also the home andcenter of the Western Province

of the Sisters of Christian Charity in theWestern Province. A village that has grown inpopulation over the past 90 years since theSisters settled here, Wilmette prides itself on its welcoming policy to all of any race, culture or creed.

It could also be called the Village of Churches, forthere are many, as well as synagogues and the B’haiTemple. The two Catholic churches have a long andoutstanding history in the lives of the people–St. Joseph Church and School in West Wilmette, and St. Francis Xavier Church and School in East Wilmette.

It was to St. Francis Xavier School that DaleLaackman came in 2002. He was the new sixth grade teacher, a position he has held since that time. Mr. Laackman looked over his enthusiastic class andsaw possibilities for positive use of their energies. “I thought a service project critical for 6th graders. My son had visited Sacred Heart Convent as a Cub

Scout and this home for retired Sisters was ideal forthe project.”

The plan for the students went into effect that yearand, on a regular basis throughout the year, the 6th

graders from St. Francis Xavier School spent time atSacred Heart Convent, visiting the Sisters, socializing,playing games, anddoing art projectstogether.

The plan waseffective and a joyfor the childrenand Sisters. The 5th graders look forward to the timewhen they, too,could visit SacredHeart Convent.Mr. Laackmanenthused: “It has been a wonderful experience for ourstudents – betterthan I ever expected. They look forward to their visits,love to write to their “pen pal” (each student chooses aSister with whom to correspond), making homemadecards to carry their messages.”

For the Sisters each visit is a re-visiting of theirdecades of teaching. They say that the children are thesame, wherever they are and whatever age they maybe. They agree that the children from St. FrancisXavier School are remarkably at ease with adults,extremely considerate, and their simple way of justbeing themselves is a joy for the Sisters.

A new friendship is made: Sr. M. Harriette Stieber converses with a student.

Sr. Irma Dreger concentrates on making a paper flower. The dining room was a sea of red and white;groups of students and Sisters filled the room as posters were made at every table.After the students left, the posters were hung throughout the convent.

Sr. Marcella Riggin–an SCC from the Eastern Province –stays after Mass to talk with hernew friend.

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Three years ago, Mr. Laackman added a new touch to his project. He began what he called a READ-A-THON. This would be a new project thatwould involve the child and his or her parents. Thechildren were encouraged to read as many books as possible. These would not be assigned by the teacher,but would be of the child’s choice, with the parents’approval of the book. For each book read, the parentswould contribute $10.00 to a fund that would be givento the Sisters at the last visit of the school year.

“No one else can sponsor the child–just the parent.No contribution can be made unless the book has beenread. The parents may not give more than $10.00 perbook, and there is no minimum number of books to be read.” Mr. Laackman continued, pointing out that

“some children willread 20 books;some will readnone.”

In the school yearof 2003–2004, theSisters received acheck for $1000; in2004–2005, theamount was $1510;and during this pastyear, the result ofthe READ-A-THONwas $2120! Theresults of this project amazed the

Sisters and, still teachers at heart, they were so pleasedthat a love for reading was being instilled in these 6th

graders through what they considered a very innovativeand successful plan.

As one Sister stated: “There is for all of us a bright shining hope for the future as we look at thesechildren.” The unspoken wish was that the potential so evident in these pre-teens of today will be fully realized in them in the years ahead.

The last visit of the year includes a Mass with the Sisters at which students participate as servers, song-leaders, readers and members of the congregation.

Mr. Dale Laackman supervises the poster-making process.

Incredible readers: After Mass, the sixth grade class of 2005-2006 posed with their check - representing 212 books read.

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In & Around the Province

Sons & Daughters of the Parish

On July 30, 2006, Most Holy TrinityParish in Fowler, MI, celebrated the 125thanniversary of the founding of the parish. For this occasion the people of the parishhonored in a special way the native sons and daughters who had entered religious life or been ordained to the priesthoodduring these many years. Sisters Paulineand Caroline Schafer joined the group ofreligious persons who had accepted theinvitation. At the same time, the parishwas holding its annual picnic.

The day began with holy Mass celebrat-ed on the parish grounds. Shortly afterthis, the honored guests gathered to bepart of the parade. Before the entertain-ment–which consisted of a program ofhometown talent–Fr. Tim MacDonald,pastor of Most Holy Trinity, acknowl-edged the religious and priests by readinga short biography of each. Father told theaudience that in these 125 years, sixtysons and daughters had left the area toserve the Church as priests and religious.The two Schafer SCCs were very proud tobe part of this celebration.

Thank You, SistersThe Navigator Award is an award given each month

to a person or organization who makes a financial donation toward scholarships for students attending Our Lady of Guadalupe School in Cool Valley, MO (a suburb of St. Louis). The award was so namedbecause those who give money to help the school continue to provide quality education are like navigatorswho help guide ships through stormy seas.

On Friday, April 7, 2006 Sr. Carol Bredenkamp, SCC received the Navigator Award on behalf of theSisters of Christian Charity who, through the PaulineFund, donate money for scholarships. During his homily at the school Mass, Fr. Jack Schuler spoke aboutthe award. Two students presented Sr. Carol with abright pink poster with a picture of Lady of Guadalupeabove a thank-you note signed by each student receivingscholarships through the fund. Sister also received asmall ornament depicting Noah’s Ark with the animalson it – a symbol of the Navigator Award. d

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The two students who presented the poster and Fr. Schuler extend their hands inblessing to Sr. Carol and to the Sisters of Christian Charity.

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Sr. Caroline and Sr. Pauline - at right, in blue habits - join the honored guests.

Wilmette Historical Society Visits St. Louis

A trip down memory lane brought both joy and a touch of sadness to a group of Sisters andCompanions during their meeting on April 22,2006. Mr. Vernon Squires, member of the Board ofDirectors of the Wilmette Historical Society, traveledto St. Vincent Home for Children in St. Louis togive an original slide show presentation about theformer Motherhouse. Mr. Squires emphasized that“The arrival of the Sisters of Christian Charity andthe establishment of Maria Immaculata Convent is avery important part of the history of Wilmette, asanyone with interest in the Village’s history wouldattest. Most Wilmette residents are aware of ‘TheMallinckrodt’ but not many are acquainted with itshistory,” said Mr. Squires. “Making people awareand appreciative of Mallinckrodt’s role in the Village over the last 90 years has been a rewardingexperience.”

Sisters Therese Fields, Monica Cormier and Juliana Miska welcome visitors to thenewest SCC mission in the Western Province: St. Mary of Celle Convent.

A New ChallengeOn September 7, 2006, Sisters Monica Cormier,

Therese Fields and Juliana Miska arrived at St. Mary of Celle Parish in Berwyn, IL. On the following day, Rev.James Clavey, pastor, celebrated Mass with the threeSCCs in the convent; this was the official foundationdate for their new ministry of prayer and presence in amulti-cultural neighborhood. In addition to being apresence in the parish and participating in parish func-tions, the Sisters will assist in Hispanic outreach and beinvolved with peace and justice issues. Their ministeringcare will also include visiting the elderly and home-bound, working with parish evangelization efforts, andtaking part in liturgical preparation.

The challenge for the three Sisters - two of whom wereamong the thousands of people who lost their homes toHurricane Katrina - is to be witnesses to the ever-loving care of God...to be witnesses of hope.

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Sr. Mary Ann Eultgen, Darlene Johnson and Mr. Vernon Squires share reminiscences of “The Mallinckrodt”.

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onA Gift of ServiceOnce again a large group of young people and adults from

Mequon, Wisconsin willingly gave up part of their summer vacation to spend a week with the children on the Cheyenne RiverReservation. The success of this program was due to many factors:much prayer, many meetings, generous hearts, numerous funddrives, willing spirits, serious planning and decision-making, phonecalls of all kinds, etc.

Fourteen teens from All Saints Parish joined the group fromWisconsin to conduct this annual summer camp. “Once again, I was very impressed with the tremendous generosity and unselfishnessof these young people and their leaders,” commented Sr. CarolynEultgen.

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14 Bread Broken Winter 2006

Noble Beggar

Ayoung leader in Germany, aware of almost every social need, but especially poverty, wasPauline von Mallinckrodt of noble birth and corresponding wealth.

This young woman, even as a child, gave of her allowancefor food for the poor. After her mother’s death, assuming theworks of the head of the household, she continued to feedthe poor, and she begged her wealthy friends to prepare meals for the needy. Pauline’s fervor spurred ladies to open a soup kitchen, some to care for wayward girls and prisoners,others to beg for books and desks for teaching the poor.Twenty-four women enrolled for that and others deliveredmeals for patients in bed. Pauline gave and attended socialaffairs for the rich but, at the same time, founded Societiesfor the Care of the Sick Poor in their homes and a Society of Volunteers for Night Nursing. She herself took over morethan100 night watches. What depressed her were the worriesof sick mothers for their little children. For with the comingof factories and the Industrial Revolution’s machines, children were left uncared-for by their parents and older siblings, who were operators and slaves of those machines.

Pauline was distressed for the children especially for the little ones, so she started a day nursery for them, beginningwith eight children and, a year later, for eighty. They were fedand she cleaned infested heads. They were also taught prayersand the rudiments of knitting, sewing and had time to play.She was also inventive in gaining financial aid from littleplays and concerts in which she led the children, especially at Christmas.

It was to a poor, neglected, rejected and half-blind womanin her twenties, who was mentally retarded, that Paulinerequested the members of her household to open their homesand hearts. Pauline’s gentleness led “Margretchen” to learnbasic hygiene and finally, even the necessary elements of theSacraments of Penance and Eucharist. It was a triumphantday when Margretchen mastered enough to receive eachSacrament!

But two more incidents were special instances of this

wistful lady’s begging. First, she would go to Wilhemshohewhere, as part of the war, Emperor Napoleon was held prisoner by the Germans, and the Holy Father was prisonerin the Vatican. She would go, and perhaps when the war was over and Napoleon was released, he could lead Frenchsoldiers, freed by General Moltke, to defeat VictorEmmanuel in Italy and free the Pope. The French could gohome and stop dying in German barracks. She would have to present this plan to both Napoleon and Moltke. But shewas not afraid.

She arrived at the castle and greeted the Prussian soldierguard. Surprised and impressed by the tall, dignified lady in the black cloak and white headdress with black veil, thesoldier wondered that she was alone, but very much at ease.

“Would it be possible to have an audience with EmperorNapoleon?” she asked. The soldier asked her politely to beseated while he would inquire. After some time he returned.

“His Majesty regrets that it is not possible to hold an audience with you, Madam,” the soldier told her, “but hissecretary, Pietri, will gladly see you.” When Pietri arrived, he explained that her plan was not feasible, and courteouslywished her a safe journey.

Some time later she received a request for Sisters to go to St. Petersburg, Russia. Young ladies were interested inentering the Sisters of Christian Charity and doing charitableworks. Mother Pauline was concerned about whether theSisters would be allowed to wear their religious habit.

Meanwhile she received word that her Sisters had arrivedin Rio de Janiero, close to Chile. Soon she traveled toCoblenz and had an audience with Empress Augusta in November.

The Empress and her whole court of grand ladiesimpressed Pauline. She spoke eloquently for the Sisters to have permission to remain in Crefeld as teachers. TheEmpress was most gracious and spoke kindly to MotherPauline, as did the princesses and duchesses, but regrettedthat they could do nothing for the Sisters. The Sisters mustgo; they must leave Crefeld. Mother Pauline accepted the dis-appointment with asmile and her usualsatisfaction with theLord’s decision. Withcourtly dignity andwinning manner, shebade them goodbye.

“That lady is wor-thy of wearing a royalcrown herself,” said a princess near theEmpress.

Most true werethose words aboutMother Pauline–thenoble beggar.

Prayer to Blessed Pauline

Blessed Pauline, God gave you the grace of a deep faith in His love.In difficulties and trials, you knew

that you were enfolded in that love;more and more, God became the very center of your being.

Obtain for me the grace of experiencing

the sustaining power of faith in my life and of knowing that I am loved by

God.Help me to see my present need

in the light of this faith and this love.Blessed Pauline,

I trust in your intercession with God.

Sharing Pauline’s Vision

East Meets West in CincinnatiNearly 500 vowed Religious and Associates of Catholic

religious communities in the USA and Canada celebratedthe10th anniversary of the North American Conference for Associates and Religious. Among those attending were two SCCs from the North American EasternProvince: Sr. Joseph Spring, Eastern Province Director of the Companions of Pauline and Sr. Carmelita Smith,moderator of the Companions in St. Ann, Williamsport,Pennsylvania.

Participants from the North American Western Province were Sr. Pauline Schafer, Province Director of the Companions of Pauline, and Sr. Mary Ann Warwick,moderator of the Chicago area Companions, who wasaccompanied by her mother and Companion of PaulineMrs. Theresa Warwick.

The time from June 2-4, 2006 at Xavier University,Cincinnati, OH was a time of input, sharing and gatheringnew enthusiasm for the work of the growing AssociateProgram in the United States and Canada.

Companions of Pauline

Welcome, New Companions of Pauline

Dolores Head St. Louis, MO

Michigan Companions: Debra Rehrman, Linda Shannon,Margo Sullivan, Mary Antes and Timothy Hine.

Chicago area Companions: Sophia Phicagrum,Lucille Pierson and Mary Trybul.

Standing: Sr. Joseph Spring and Sr. Carmelita Smith. Seated: Mrs. Warwick,Sr. Mary Ann Warwick and Sr. Pauline Schafer.

Meet Prayer Companion Shirley Fleck PhillipsMy first contacts with the Sisters of Christian Charity were as my teachers at Holy Trinity

School in New Ulm, MN, from first grade through senior year (1954).My older sibling, Lois Jane, joined the congregation in Wilmette, IL as a postulant when she

was 16. She became Sr. Philomene Fleck and worked as a cook/housekeeper. In her 30’s she wasafflicted with multiple sclerosis and retired to Sacred Heart Convent where I visited her regularly.She was truly a saint; she never complained and always smiled through her pain. My last visit withher was on her 64th birthday when she told me she had only a short time left–in three weeks wewere at her funeral.

My fondness for the Sisters continued with being “matched” with Sr. Mary Ann Eultgen.Because I met Sr. Maria Martin Nguyen many times at Sacred Heart Convent, she also is included among my close Sisterfriends. Thanks to Sr. Pauline Schafer for bringing me into the Prayer Companions. My Masses, Holy Communions,rosaries, novena to Bl. Pauline are offered for the benefit of the SCCs and Companions of Pauline.

My husband and I attend the weekly Lord of Mercy Devotions and help to promote it. Vocations are always my request as well as graces for the nuns in their ministries. We are both in funeral ministry, attending all funerals in our parish. In thewinter I attend the Ladies’ Bible Sessions. We also attend a couples’ retreat yearly at the Venice Diocese Retreat Center.Both of us enjoy pilgrimages to the holy shrines in France, Italy, Portugal and Spain. We were privileged to visit the Romemotherhouse last fall and to see Pope Benedict XVI. We are blessed!

Kay Neudecker Fulton, MO

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16 Bread Broken Winter 2006

Your Future & Ours

Vocation Team from Left to right:Sr. Janice Boyer2041 Elmwood Ave., Wilmette, IL 60091-1431(847) 920-9341 e-mail: srjanice@sccwilmette.org

Sr. Carol Bredenkamp1801 Forest Ave., Wilmette, IL 60091-1533(847) 251-5855 e-mail: callscc@sccwilmette.org

Sr. Joachim Kaufmann5600 S. Country Club #62, Tucson, AZ85706-2738 (520) 889-8809 e-mail: sjkaufmann@aol.com

SCC Days at Sacred Heart ConventAt breakfast one morning in May, Sr. Elizabeth Ann Buscher spoke

to her companions at table about her idea for a vocation project atSacred Heart Convent. The Sisters readily agreed to help and by Junethe details were ironed out. Brochures were designed and distributedto several high schools in Wilmette, extending an invitation to highschool and junior high girls looking for a summer volunteer serviceproject.

From July 24-28, five girls showed up at the front door of the convent at 10:00 a.m. For the next six hours they participated enthu-siastically in the “SCC” program: S - service: carrying dinner trays,taking patients in wheelchairs outdoors, assisting the activities directorwith creative projects; C –Camaraderie: learning to knit or crochet,helping patients at a Bingo game, eating dinner with the Sisters; C - Communication: swapping tales of school days with former teach-ers and principals, visiting the province archives, quietly taking part inthe morning rosary.

The week concluded with a recreation from which the girls briefly disappeared - laughter and shouts of joy echoed through the corridors as they (and a few Sisters) hunted for portraits of Mother Pauline throughout the building.

Sr. Elizabeth Ann Buscher and Sr. Marcella Riggin with partici-pants in the SCC Days at SHC: Catherine Salmos, CatherineMcKenna, Noreen Andersen, Maureen Andersen and ElainaSwanson (at back).

Final VowsNovember 4, the Feast of St. Charles Borromeo, is also a feastday for

the SCCs; it was the day when, in 1850, Mother Pauline and her threecompanions pronounced their first Holy Vows in the Bussdorf (parish)church in Paderborn, Germany. One hundred and fifty-six years later,another SCC pronounced her vows in a parish church - this time in St. Joseph Church, Wilmette, IL. A crowd of Sisters, relatives (includingher Reverend uncle from Vietnam), friends and parishioners watched asSr. Maria Martin Nguyen, candle in hand, pronounced her perpetualvows before the Most Reverend Francis Kane.

“In response to God’s calland with firm determinationto consecrate myself completelyto him and to follow Christmore closely throughout myentire life, I, Sr. MariaMartin Nguyen, vow toAlmighty God and into yourhands Sr. Mary ClementEiden, provincial superior, perpetual chastity, poverty andobedience according to theConstitutions of the Sisters ofChristian Charity, Daughtersof the Blessed Virgin Mary ofthe Immaculate Conception.”

At the festive reception in St. Joseph’s Meter Hall, Sr. Maria Martinshared her joy with all who had participated in this solemn ceremony.

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Rev. Rao Ngoc Nguyen, O.P., Sr. Maria Martin and Bishop Francis J. Kane

German LessonsThe German Club meets monthly at Divine

Providence Convent in Williamsport, PA. They are ledby Sr. Susanne Kullowitch, who grew up in a German-speaking family in Chicago and is keeping her languageand culture alive by teaching and sharing it with others.

The club was originally an informal German class, formed to teach basic German conversational skills toSCCs traveling to Germany. It since has evolved into agroup of religious and lay persons desiring to learnmore about the language and culture. To enhance theirlessons Sr. Susanne occasionally plans a German meal or invites a guest speaker to their sessions.

One guest speaker (who later became an active mem-ber of the German Club) was Mrs. Ellen Werner Smith who related to the class her experiences as a child grow-ing up in Germany. She spokeabout her life in the city ofBingen on the Rhine, telling ofher education, her meeting anAmerican serviceman, her mar-riage to this serviceman afterWorld War II, and of her arrivalin the USA in 1972. The saga ofher adjustments to life in theUSA and how it differed fromher life in Germany completedher narrative.

Other guest speakers includedMrs. Angie Myers and her daughter Mrs. Natalie Easton.

Mrs. Myers spoke of her family’s life during World WarII and the postwar period in East and West Germany.Members were spellbound as they listened to Mrs.Myers tell of life during Soviet occupation in EastGermany. She told of how her father, Johannes Bottke,a journalist, confronted with eminent arrest, escaped toWest Berlin; of how her mother, Anneliese, in the early1940s cleverly gathered the children for a supposed visitto relatives in West Berlin, and even managed to enlistthe assistance of a Soviet soldier in getting the baby carriage across the train tracks...to West Berlin and freedom!

Another bright point in the narrative was the relatingof her mother’s joy of meeting the grandparents at acrossroad among thousands of other escapees travelingfrom north to south to meet up with American troops

near the Rhine River in April1945. Today, members of herfamily still reside in Germany,and she has been able to visitthem. At the end of heraccount, Sr. Susanne added aninteresting note: one member ofthe German Club had a great,great aunt who, as a blind child,was taught by Mother Paulinein Paderborn.

SCCs Around the WorldInternational Tertianship

In recent years, Tertianship, anintensive preparation for FinalVows, has become an internation-al event. From June 11-July 16,four SCCs preparing to maketheir Final Vows in 2006 and2007 met in Rome and Germany.Sr. M. Judith Moran, their directress, guided them through periods of prayer and reflection, acted as tour guide in both countries, and facilitated discussions of community matters.

L-R: Mrs. Angie Myers, Sr. Susanne, Mrs. Natalie Easton.

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The group gathers in the dining room of Villa Paulina in Rome: Sr. Maria Martin Nguyen (WesternProvince); Sr. Annelyth Pandi (Eastern Province); Sr. M. Judith Moran; Sr. Marinel Bawagan(Philippines) and Sr. Tabea Gellrich (Germany).

Photo courtesy of Sr. Susanne Kullowitch Bread Broken Winter 2006 17

18 Bread Broken Winter 2006

Sr. M. Claire MertzlufftOctober 15, 1913–May 28, 2006

Sr. Petrina SimonSeptember 4, 1910–May 28, 2006

Sr. Joanna PlatteFebruary 1, 1910–July 5, 2006

Sr. M. Hilary HackerMay 25, 1917–August 1, 2006

Austin Hailey BaumanNiece of Sr. Joann Kelzer

Clarence BurkeBenefactor of SCCs in New Orleans

Rev. Joseph Connors, SVDChaplain and friend of the SCCs

Anastasia CreticosFormer Mallinckrodt College Professor &

Benefactor of the SCCs

Richard CroftBrother-in-law of Sr. Hildegarde Smith

Helen GoldenMother of Kathy Steger,

Volunteer at SHC

Rev. Thomas L. Kenealy, S.J.Chaplain and friend of the SCCs

Adeline KuzeraMother of former SCC Julie Kuzera

Elaine LindenmannSister of Companion of Pauline,

Audrey Coghlin

Dr. William R. O’ConnorBrother of Companion of Pauline,

Lucille Pierson

Rev. Robert Pung, SVDBrother of Sr. Rosarita Pung (Dec.)

& Chaplain, confessor and friend of the SCCs

Rev. Gregory Sabastian, O.S.B.Cousin of Sr. Delphine Wedmore

Rodney ZemkeBenefactor of SCCs in New Orleans

Joseph ZwackBrother-in-law of Sr. Joann Kelzer

Keeping in Touch In MemoriamThe storm of July 19

It was the storm of storms, unlike any in recent memory or records. The watchful meteorologists were taken aback by what they called a “severe thunderstorm”. Its 80-mile-an-hour winds took an unpredictable course,leaving trees uprooted, windows blown out, roofs removed and 400,000sites without electricity…and this was the hottest day of the year.

Florissant, MO did not escape the ravages of the storm; in most of thecity electricity was lost for days, including St. Vincent Home for Childrenwhich was without electric power for nearly four days. Sr. Mary AnnEultgen, a resident at the Center and a board member of St. VincentHome, saw their need and facilitated an arrangement by which twelve girlsand twenty-four boys from St. Vincent Home, ranging in age from six tosixteen, were invited to stay at Loretto Center. They came with their sleep-ing bags and big appetites, and would camp out in the front wing of theground floor and have their breakfast and supper in the main dining room.

Plans for a quiet stay were soon dashed. The first night of their arrival,the Center’s deafening fire alarm roused everyone at 4:15 a.m., causing theevacuation of everyone: young and old, sick and well. Firemen quicklyarrived on the scene, and once again all was quiet. Later that morning, theSisters were entertained by the many questions posed by the children: Doyou have fire drills every night? How many children do you have? Are youmarried? How old are you? Needless to say, the children and the Sistersenjoyed the exchange.

Throughout the next week the Sisters were often impressed at how wellbehaved and polite these children were, and deeply edified with the dedication of the childcare workers who were seen everywhere tending tothe needs of their charges. At the end of their stay, the staff of St. VincentHome voiced their gratitude for the Sisters’ kindness, hospitality,

caring and, most of all,their openness with thechildren. One Sisterobserved, “We realize that these children havelived lives far from thenorm of a loving family,and can exhibit behaviorsthat may be inappropriate.However, we are certainthat the love, patience andgiving spirit shown themwill be remembered forthe rest of their lives.”

Photo by Jo Curran

The Sisters were entertained by the many questions posed by the children,including: Do you have fire drills every night?

Sr. M. Hilary HackerThe peaceful death of

Sr. M. Hilary Hacker on August 1quietly closed a life full of activityfor the Lord. Sister was one of fourchildren of the Hacker family whogave their lives in dedication toGod. (Her sister, Sr. Marie, current-

ly resides at Sacred Heart Convent.Both the Franciscan Sister and bishop-brother diedyears ago.)

Sr. M. Hilary’s service to the Church and her congregation found her working in Chicago,Detroit, Sioux City, and New Orleans, as well as inChaska and Wilmette. Sister taught in grade, highschool and college. She filled the office of principaland college president, and she served as collegelibrarian.

Within the congregation of the Sisters ofChristian Charity she fulfilled the duties of direc-tress to new members and provincial councilor. In life’s waning years, Sister tutored students in theESL program at Josephinum Convent, and thoughretired, she continued to supervise the distributionof BREAD BROKEN.

Sr. M. Claire MertzlufftSr. M. Claire Mertzlufft died

rather unexpectedly on May 28.The morning Liturgy had justbrought heaven very close to earthin the glorious celebration of theAscension of Jesus, and here was a

happy heart ready to leave this world and join thesaints in heaven!

For nearly four decades Sr. M. Claire had taughtprimary and middle grades. Her first assignment inNew Orleans was also her longest. As time passed,she would also teach in the missions of our schoolsin the Midwest and North. Baton Rouge and NewOrleans saw her final teaching activity.

Conscientious in all she did, Sister was humble,peace-loving, and prayerful. She was also quietlyalert to others, generous in praise and full of gratitude.

The only daughter of a family of hearty boys, shelearned early in life from both parents to lovemusic, and she played both piano and violin. Shenow joins the choir of heavenly hosts in a song ofpraise to the God she had served so faithfully.

Sr. Petrina SimonSr. Petrina Simon entered

eternal life on Sunday, May 28.At her funeral the celebrantremarked on how she had out-lived conventional anniversaries–she was just two years short of her

100th birthday.Born on a farm in Westphalia, MI, she was the

youngest in a family of many girls and few boys.She learned early in life from her parents thatGod’s will was most important in life and worthyto be sought and followed.

Like two of her sisters (Sr. M. Annella and Sr. M. Olivia), she dedicated her life to Him, spending herself as a teacher in our schools in theNorth, Midwest, and briefly in the South.

Small of stature and quiet in her ways, Sisteroffered little hint of the richness within her. Theexcellence of her teaching and her rapport withchildren were most impressive.

Because Sr. Petrina and Sr. M. Claire died onthe same day, one within three hours of the other,the Liturgy of Christian Burial was celebrated forboth Sisters at the same ceremony.

Sr. Joanna PlatteAfter a lifetime of labor for

the Lord, Sr. Joanna Platteentered consciously, quietly intoeternal life on July 5. For at leastsix decades she had been teacheror tutor, and principal as well, in

our schools in the Midwest, North and South.Now, as a Sister commented, “she walkedstraight into heaven.”

Sr. Joanna is remembered as a person of uncompromising ideals, prayerful and devoted.Despite deafness and declining mobility, shenever ceased to “be there for others.” She waspleased to read to Sisters who could not see, andto the very end she wrote cards and notes forthose unable to write. Her letters to the relativesof the Sisters who had already gone to God keptwarm the relationship between the SCCs andthe families. No one could count the hours shespent in prayer at the bedside of the dying.

At the age of 96 Sr. Joanna was still actively present with the community at prayers andmeals until her sudden death. Her last wordswere: “Whatever God wills.”

Bread Broken Winter 2006 19

Legacy of Love

Bread BrokenSisters of Christian Charity2041 Elmwood Ave.Wilmette, IL 60091

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. PostagePAIDWilmette ILPermit No. 91

Sr. Anna Domeier

Sr. Campion BreskeSr. Eleanor Ann Ortmann

Sr. Jane Frances Louvier

Sr. M. Anne Marty

CongratulationsJubilarians!

2006

Sr. Agnette Bengal