THANKING GOD FOR OUR JUBILARIANS, 2001 | SR. JOAN LOHMER and OTHER EVENTS, 2002

SUMMER and FALL, 2002 | EFFORTS FOR PEACE, SPRING, 2003 | SPRING, 2004 | FALL 2004 | WINTER 2004

SPRING 2005 | FALL 2005 | FALL 2006 | SPRING 2007 | SUMMER 2008

THANKING GOD FOR OUR JUBILARIANS, 2001

Sister Catherine Braun - 50 Years
Whether she was responding to a local minister’s call for a joke for his Sunday sermon, or was explaining to her Kindergarten Sunday school class how to use the telephone to talk to Jesus, Sister Catherine spent much of her 50 years of religious profession inviting people to “keep their eyes on God’ through entertainment. Doctors, ministers, audiences everywhere, and especially children remember Sr. Catherine for her blend of storytelling, jokes, puzzles, and finger plays. Her 50 years of dedication to religious life have been a calling to “minister to old people” - and to all others with simplicity and joy. “I remember when I was 6 and wanted to visit an elderly neighbor, I knocked on the door and explained to the startled lady that I was there to visit. After cookies and milk, she sent me home. I thought that was the greatest!”

The last of seven children born to John and Elizabeth Braun, Sister Catherine experienced the joys of childhood in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Surrounded by nieces and nephews nearly her same age, Sister Catherine speaks of the lovely Wisconsin winters sledding and ice skating, and the summers filled with childhood activities and play. This childhood joy has been a trademark with Sister Catherine throughout these years. After her profession of vows at St. Joseph’s Convent in Chillicothe, Missouri, Sister Catherine’s ministry was to seminarians and the Benedictine monks of Conception as a cook, often sneaking cookies to the seminarians who helped in the kitchen. She also ministered as a cook to patients and staff at St. Francis Hospital in Marceline, Missouri, and eventually served in the laundry for the Sisters and the residents of La Verna Heights Nursing Home here in Savannah.

Sister Catherine continued her ministry of bringing joy to people by singing and directing the “Jubileers” a local senior citizen group. Today handicapped by a stroke and diabetes, Sister Catherine maintains her ministry of joy through visiting nursing home residents and writing letters to adults and children alike. Throughout these fifty years she has brought joy to many and has helped them to “keep their eyes on God”!

Sister Bernadette Vierling - 65 Years
Sr. Bernadette's favorite verse from Scripture is: "The Lord is my light and my salvation." (Psalm 127:9). The Lord continues to be her light and salvation as she assists our Franciscan community in many tasks that contribute to the well-being of those she lives with. She still enjoys working in the garden and caring for house plants.

It is evident that the life of prayer is a priority for her, as well as life in community. Through her years of service to God and people, she has shared the light of the Lord and brightened her world. We are grateful for this commitment which has borne fruit for 65 years.

Sister Stilla Kronegger - 65 Years
Sr. Stilla's favorite verse from Scripture is John 6:45: "Everyone who listens to my Father and learns from Him, comes to me." As Sr. Stilla continues her journey to God through the ravages of Parkinson's disease, we trust that her listening and learning is bringing her every closer to God's comfort and peace. Though she seldom speaks, she is still able to communicate a little.

Over 65 years, she has been faithful to prayer and accepting of God's will. Sometimes, we can catch a glimpse of this reflected in her smile.

Sister Frieda Nini - 65 Years
Sr. Frieda's favorite saying is: "Jesus, King of love, I trust in your merciful goodness." It is said that one comes to resemble the person one loves. This can be witnessed in the daily life of Sr. Frieda throughout the years and today.

She quietly performs many acts of love and goodness. Since she is happiest when she can be of service, Sr. Frieda shares her smile and her love with our residents in the nursing home, with her fellow Sisters in need of assistance, and with her Lord in the communion of prayer.

Sister Margaret Walker - 45 Years
Sr. Margaret's favorite verse from Scripture is Psalm 23:1-2: "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. In green pastures He gives me repose." The Lord has shepherded Sr. Margaret through 45 years of religious life and service.

Her repose thus far has been the solace received in prayer and God's providence in her daily life, as she continues to serve the Lord's needy ones at the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center in St. Joseph. Both co-workers and residents of this facility have expressed their gratitude for her presence there.

May her gift of self in the Lord's green pastures continue to flourish for the good of her Franciscan community and all of God's people.

Sister Aurelia Gurtner - 40 Years
Sr. Aurelia Gurtner, a sister from our Austrian Province, is the newest member of our Savannah community. Arriving last February, she has committed herself to volunteering her services to the American Province for three years. She is celebrating her 40th jubilee as a Franziskanerin von Vöcklabruck.

Recently retiring from education ministry after 24 years as director of our congregation's Kindergarten Teachers' Training School in Salzburg, she brings a sunny smile and a generous spirit of willingness to assist us with our ministries. Spiritually and physically prepared by a three-month sabbatical, she says, "After my school time, it is now time for me to care for older people." Sr. Aurelia is very busy already. She assists in the Activity Department each day in LaVerna Heights Retirement Center and also manages to find time to help some of the older sisters with their needs and to work in the garden. Sister is very committed to polishing up her English and studies each day. At the same time, she corrects our fractured German.

We are all amazed at how quickly Sr. Aurelia has adjusted to her new convent home, and we are grateful to be the beneficiaries of her generosity.

Thanking God for Sister Johanna

The American Province was graced by the presence of Sr. Johanna Pobitzer of the Austrian Province, who came from Salzburg to provide us with information on the spirituality of our founder. She is the author of the book, "The Founding Charism of Sebastian Schwarz," which was a product of her doctoral study just now completed.

Her excellent command of the English language enabled her to pass on to us the essential characteristics of the spirituality and values of Sebastian Schwarz. This was a necessity for us because our congregation at its last chapter chose the study, renewal and implementation of our charism as a major goal for the years 2001-2006. Now, due to the program presented by Sr. Johanna, we can truly feel united with the Sisters of the German and Austrian provinces in our striving to reach this common purpose.

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Our Jubilarian - Sr. Joan Lohmer

70 Years of Fidelity for Sr. Joan...This year's Jubilee celebration focuses solely on Sr. Joan Lohmer, a septuagenarian of faithful living of the religious life and vows. Sr. Joan is 93 years young and still presents the same welcoming and gracious attitude typical of younger days. She takes delight in the ordinary and brings enjoyment and zest to the routine of daily living at La Verna.

It seems that Sr. Joan was destined to enter a Franciscan community. She was well-prepared by her parents who were Franciscan Tertiaries. She attended a Catholic grade school and went to daily Mass throughout her childhood. She and two other siblings entered religious life and offered many years of service to God.

All her life Sr. Joan has been a teacher and a musician. Her call to religious life and ministry took her from her beloved Stillwater, Minnesota, to the towns of Conception, Brunswick, Chillicothe, Parkville and Savannah in Missouri.

Sr. Joan would be the last one to boast of her accomplishments, such as: the mentoring of many fledgling piano and voice students, the providing of a solid music education and sacramental preparation to numerous grade school students, and her dedicated perseverance in providing organ accompaniment at Mass for various groups, particularly at the Motherhouse after her retirement. One accomplishment Sr. Joan does boast about, however, is the part she may have played in the vocations of a number of her students who
became priests: Monsignor Victor Moser, Monsignor Robert Hogan, Fr. Ignatius Potts, Fr. Richard Saale and Fr. David Holloway. She recently attended the 80th birthday party of Monsignor Moser at St. Mary's Church in St. Joseph where she was delighted to announce to everyone that she was his eighth grade teacher.

In these last years Sr. Joan finds many things to fill her time and make life purposeful and meaningful. She writes letters to family, friends, former students, and to a prisoner on death row. She attends Holy Hour each day. She loves to read and stays well-informed. She is committed to a routine of daily exercise. She assists wherever she can and is very interested in each sister, inquiring often about family or friends. Probably her favorite activity is "Hands and Foot," a card game which has become a "must do" before the end of the day. She plays with gusto, one minute informing the card group that she has "a terrible hand - not one face card," and the next minute going out (always to her great surprise), leaving the rest with a handful of negative points. Some claim that her success at this game is due to the angels' intervention and the stacking of the deck!

We ask God to bless Sr. Joan for her 70 years of faithful witness of the vowed life. We are grateful for the gift she has been to our community and hope that as the years pass, she will continue to experience great joy, sharing her delight in the little surprises which brighten her days and ours.

Sullivan Award - May 17, 2002
Sr. Kathleen Reichert, provincial superior, accepted the Sullivan Award given to the Sisters of St. Francis of Savannah, Missouri by Catholic Charities of Kansas City - St. Joseph.

The award, which was presented at the Annual Meeting and Dinner on May 17, 2002, honored the community for our work in the area of social concerns and peace and justice.

Picnic Held May 31, 2002
Over 200 of us assembled for the annual Resident and Staff picnic. We all enjoyed the beautiful May day under the trees, munching on the goodies provided by the LaVerna Facilities and Sisters.

Mr. Mike Burak, administrator, and staff did an excellent job of barbecuing the hamburgers and wieners. Delicious potato salad and baked beans prepared by Sr. Raphael and kitchen staff added to the fun; and no, we won't squeal on those who took a second ice cream sandwich.

YOU ARE INVITED...

July 12 - Friends of LaVerna Benefit: "A Salzburg Night"
Jesse James Banquet Hall, Junction of Hwy 71 and I29, Exit 53
7:00 p.m.

• $50.00/Plate Dinner with Austrian Cuisine
• Silent Auction: Theme Baskets, Porcelain Dolls, and More
• Live Auction: Austrian Vacation Packages

September 7 - Sr. Joan's Jubilee Reception
Madonna Hall, LaVerna Heights
2:00-3:30 p.m.

• Come greet Sr. Joan at the reception in her honor.

October 11 - LaVerna Fall Festival
LaVerna Heights
9:00 - 4:00 p.m.

• Quilt Raffle
• Bakery Shop
• Crafts
• Clothes Closet
• Garden Shop
• Lunch Menu

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Summer and Fall, 2002

Sr. Joan Lohmer's Reception
	On September 17, Sr. Joan celebrated her 70th jubilee.
	Many friends and former students honored her with their attendance.
	Good friends...

New Water Garden at LaVerna Village Nursing Home On September 21, there was a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new water garden in the courtyard at our LaVerna Village Nursing Home. The water garden and the entire courtyard refurbishment was contributed by the donations and labor of the St. Joseph Area Water Garden Society and other kind contributors.

California Guests - October 2-9 Imelda Gamalinda, a co-disciple, and a group of friends from California came to visit us this fall. These guests were all members of a Catholic church group called "Simbang Gabi" which kindly contributed a large gift to our LaVerna Friends fundraiser. Activities with them during these enjoyable days included trips to Jamesport, Conception, Crown Center, local St. Joseph places of interest and the Missouri Catholic Conference in Jefferson City, some successful fishing expeditions and subsequent cook-outs. "Adopted Nun's Night Out" at Ryan's Cafeteria was the highlight of our time together. The cultural exchange included learning how to play Mah Jong and how to cook Pak Siew (fish stew.) The general consensus was that this experience should be repeated! (See photos below!)

	Sr. Catherine Braun celebrates her birthday with Imelda Gamalinda, our hostess.
	Sr. Dorthie Anne enjoys a lively conversation with Angelita Almazora.

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Efforts for Peace, Spring 2003

A Transition in our Ministry to the Elderly
After 46 years of ministering to the elderly on the third floor of the LaVerna Heights building, the LaVerna Heights Retirement Center is closing and nursing services are being consolidated to the LaVerna Village Nursing Home. On February 7, 2003, Sr. Kathleen officially announced the consolidation citing various factors impacting the decision: increasingly higher insurance costs, both in general and professional coverage and employee health; a lack of increase in state grants to residents who have financial difficulty with private pay fees, and the reality of a decreasing pool of staff and private pay clients.

We believe that this consolidation will help us continue to give quality care to our residents and to persevere in carrying out our mission to the elderly and infirm. All of the Sisters who have worked in the nursing home and shared the building with residents feel privileged to have been able to provide this care for people of our area since 1957.

When we Sisters of St. Francis purchased the Dr. Nichols' Cancer Sanitorium in 1957 to establish it as our province house and subsequently set up a retirement home on the third floor, we realized Mother Pia's dream of providing nursing care for the elderly. On June 21, 1957, the first patient came. During the first six months of operation of the La Verna Heights Retirement Center, eleven residents were admitted and ten employees were hired. The sisters, postulants, and novices did a great deal of work. Sister Waltrud was the first supervisor of the retirement home. She was assisted by Sister Veronica and a staff of licensed practical nurses. Sister Magdalene was the first administrator. It was not long before the 40 beds were filled and a good reputation attained. Over the years renovations and many changes have occurred, but the core values of compassion, availability, reverence, enthusiasm and stewardship have always been maintained. We are pleased that over 700 residents chose to come to our nursing home and that we were able to meet their needs during this fragile time of their lives. LaVerna Village Nursing Home, which was established in 1974 and has served over a thousand residents, will now be the focus of our continuing ministry to the elderly.

In many ways this is a very painful "letting go" of something very precious to us. It is difficult to give up a ministry that has continued for so long and has been so meaningful. Our residents and their families, our Board of Trustees, our staff and many others are sad to see the change, but we and they are confident that continuity in the essential mission to the elderly will be preserved and that God will indeed look on this present reformation and give a blessing.

Photos: The first photo features Secretary Beth Miller, assisting Beulah Harrison as she signs paperwork in the office at LaVerna Village.

The second photo is Tammy Myers, Sherri Huntsman, and Roseann Stewart, staff of LaVerna Heights Retirement Center, bidding goodbye to Beulah Harrison as she leaves for LaVerna Village.

Efforts For Peace
We know that as Franciscan Peacemakers in a chaotic world, we are called to be persons of peace and to be a prophetic voice which speaks peace to our world. Therefore, in opposition to the proposed war in Iraq, we have been actively pursuing peace.

Our efforts have included writing letters to our President and law-makers, visiting regional representatives offices, organizing and participating in numerous peace prayer services, signing petitions, attending peace rallies and, most importantly, by prayer. At a time when so many voices seem to call for war and revenge, for preemptive strikes and retaliation, it is the cry for peace that is echoed in our home at Mass and Morning and Evening Prayer and brought before the Blessed Sacrament at Holy Hour each day.

We pray that our loving God will enlighten our nation and all of us in ways of peace. We pray that God will protect those who must leave their families and risk their lives in order to serve their country in an unjust war. We beg God to grant us wisdom in proportion to our power, and compassion in proportion to our wealth and might, and to give us the capacity to truly forgive those who have trespassed against us.

Thus, may we trust solely in God and may our nation be blessed with an earnest desire to help all peoples of every race and nation to walk in friendship with us along the road to justice, liberty and lasting peace. For more information about the Catholic peace movement, visit Pax Christi.

Photo: Sr. Mary Ellen Reichert and Sr. Mary Chrisman at the peace rally in Kansas City, holding a peace banner.

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Spring 2004

Fundraisers

"A Night on the Western Prairie"
On July 9, 2004, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, the Friends of LaVerna will present "A Night on the Western Prairie," our 2004 Fundraiser. The event will be held in Summers Hall in the church located at 4503 Frederick Blvd., St. Joseph, Missouri.

Tickets are $50 per person, or $500 for a table of 10. To obtain your tickets, contact 816-324-3179 or purchase them from the business office at LaVerna Village or LaVerna Heights. To reserve tickets, you may also email us! The evening begins with a social gathering at 6:30 p.m. and dinner at 7:00 p.m. A Silent Auction and Live Auction will also be held. See information and pictures from our 2002 and 2003 auctions below.

Last Year's Fundraiser 2003 - "A Night at the Tropics"
The second annual Friends of LaVerna Fundraiser was held on July 11, 2003. Over 200 participants enjoyed “A Night in the Tropics,” welcomed with leis by island-styled greeters at the door, feasting on tropical treats and cuisine, renewing old friendships and joining in an evening of great fun. The bidding was brisk on 94 silent auction items and on the bed and breakfast packages offered at the live auction. It was great to see the excitement and enthusiasm build to the climax point of the winning bids. All in all it was a night of generosity, support and blessing for the Sisters and those who attended. It was a highly successful fundraiser and from the bottom of our hearts, the Sisters of St. Francis thank all who made it possible.

A Trip to Salzburg - One of Our Auction Items 2002 and 2003
One of the items auctioned in 2002 and again in 2003 was a week’s bed and breakfast in Salzburg, Austria, with our Sisters there. Jackie and Bernie Madden were the first to try out their Live Auction Salzburg Bed and Breakfast. Jackie reports, “Bernie and I arrived in Salzburg by train after flying from Kansas City to Munich, Germany. We were greeted by two smiling faces of the young Sisters sent to meet the weary American tourists. We were taken to a waiting taxi for a short drive to the convent.

The Sisters’ convent is part of a beautiful complex. Our guest room was cheerful and roomy, with a beautiful view of the garden and adjoined by a nice sitting room with a TV and lounge chairs for reading and relaxation. We had a lovely meal with the Sisters that first evening. It included Bernie’s favorite bratwurst, which he ordered at every opportunity while we were in Salzburg.

What a beautiful city! Sister Aurelia was so kind to spend the first day with us walking to nearby sights and explaining the history of the city. It was a special treat each day to step out the door and take a short walk along the river, across the bridge to lovely shops, restaurants and landmarks. We traveled by train one day to Innsbruck and another day to the Alps in the area of Hitler’s Eagle Nest. Other highlights of our trip were the wonderful hospitality of the Austrian people wherever we went, a performance of “The Magic Flute” at the world-famous Salzburg Marionette Theater and a beautiful choral presentation at the Franciscan Church. What a memorable experience this Austrian vacation was! Of course, we had a bonus package with the Sisters Aurelia, Valeria and their charming community.”

The second group of travelers was John and Carolyn Robertson and Mike and Georgian Harris. John and Carolyn have this to say about it: “We had the pleasure of visiting Austria and the Sisters of St. Francis in Salzburg. What a wonderful experience! From the time Sister Valeria met us at the front door until she waved good-bye, we were made to feel more than welcome.

We had a marvelous time exploring the wide variety of activities available in Salzburg. The Mozart Mass at the Franciscan Church was a major highlight of our visit. We visited some amazing sights such as the 12th century fortress that dominates Salzburg’s skyline, took the Sound of Music tour, visited the Hellebrun Palace with its trick fountains, and marveled at Mozart’s humble beginnings. There is a surprising array of eating establishments from wine cellars to the Augustineer Brewery’s Beer Garden to street vendors selling sausages. The shopping was unique and our trip up the Salzsach River gave us a unique view of the countryside. Thanks to the generosity of Father Mike Volkmer at St. Francis Xavier Parish and our guide, Sister Valeria, we were able to visit the Von Trapp family home, which is now the provincial house for the Society of the Precious Blood.

We so enjoyed staying with the Sisters. Although the weather was warm during Europe’s heat wave this summer, it was pleasant while we were there. Sr. Valeria was a big help to us. We thought it was so thoughtful that on our last night the Sisters treated us to a special dinner. This was the kind of trip that would be impossible to duplicate and one we’ll treasure forever.”

We Sisters are delighted that these couples had such a marvelous experience; and we look forward with excitement to hear the experience of 2003 winners of the Salzburg Bed and Breakfast Package, Jeanne and Bill Hinkebein of Chillicothe, who are planning to go this summer.

The Nun Better Cafe - Another Auction Item 2003
One of the prizes auctioned off at the 2003 fundraiser was the “Nun Better Café”. This was a dinner for 12 cooked by the Sisters and eaten in banquet style at LaVerna Heights. Three couples vied for the opportunity to enjoy a meal with the Sisters. Donations were tripled when the auctioneer suggested that all three couples win the meal at the last bidded price. It is evident in these pictures that this was a treat enjoyed not only by our generous benefactors, but also by the Sisters.

	Jubilarians of 2003 Sr. Kathleen Reichert - 40 Years Sr. Reinholda Eder - 75 Years Sr. Mary Ellen Reichert - 50 Years
	Jubilarians of 2004 Sr. Rebecca Brennan - 40 Years (first from right) Sr. Magdalene Bergmann - 70 Years (fifth from right) Sr. Marie Long - 50 Years (not pictured)

Habitat for Humanity Guests
For the second year volunteer college students working with the national Habitat for Humanity program were hosted in our guest house. From March 13 to 20, students from the University of Dayton in Ohio labored on a Habitat for Humanity site in St. Joseph. The house they helped to build will become the home of a single mother with an adult handicapped son. The local executive director commented that these volunteers accomplished in one week’s time work that would have normally taken five weeks. This was evident when the workers returned each day from St. Joseph. As fifteen tired and dirty bodies piled out of the van, it was entertaining for us to watch who would win the race to the showers in the three facilities on the property made available for their use. The Sisters found this year’s group, like last year’s, to be very appreciative, enthusiastic and cooperative. It has been a blessing to be able to provide this service for such a worthy cause.

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Fall 2004

Fundraisers

LAVERNA FALL FESTIVAL
The annual LaVerna Fall Festival will be held at LaVerna Heights on Saturday, October 9, 2004, from 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. This year’s festival will feature a Huge Furniture Sale! The Sisters of St. Francis will be selling a number of used furniture items from our convent space. Items for sale will include: twin beds, metal dressers with mirrors, wicker rockers, chalkboards, sewing machines, night stands, small tables, chairs and other miscellaneous items.

There will also be a Bake Shop, Coffee Shop/Snack Bar, Crafts, Quilt Raffle and More!

Our quilt...

Quilt Raffle
Quilting Angels, members of the LaVerna Guild, are hard at work on their next masterpiece which will be raffled off on October 9 at the Fall Festival. This year’s queen size, hand-quilted treasure is called “Sr. Bernadette’s Flower Garden.” Chances may be purchased by phone, mail or email. Donation of $1.00 per chance. You need not be present to win. Make checks payable to LaVerna Guild, 104 E. Park, Savannah, MO 64485-0488.

The 2004 Friends of LaVerna Fundraiser “A Night on the Western Prairie”
This third annual fundraising event was the best-attended ever! We wish to thank all who participated in any way. There are many of you: those who gave financial and material donations, those who volunteered their time, talent and resources, those who let us know their support from a distance, and those who came to share a night of fun. We are truly grateful for all of you, our dear Friends of LaVerna. We want you to know that we remember you in our prayers and in a monthly Mass for our benefactors and their intentions.

Putting our heads together for some last minute preparations.	“We’ll be happy to take your money or ticket!”
Sr. Kathleen says “Howdy!” and gets the spirit moving.
	Our own Country Western Star: Jeremy Long, son of Diane Long, nurse at LaVerna Village.

Franciscan Federation
In August Sr. Kathleen and Sr. Christine attended the annual Franciscan Federation gathering which held in Fort Worth, Texas this year. This Federation is made up of Third Order Franciscans, both men and women, and is divided according to regions. This year Region 5, our region, was asked to help prepare the prayer and liturgies. Sr. Kathleen was a co-chair of this committee. 

One of the actions of the Franciscan Federation was to demonstrate against the death penalty which is practiced so stringently in Texas. The 400+ attendees of the meeting signed postcards to Governor Perry and other officials asking for an end to the death penalty. Members also approved a letter thanking Journey of Hope, families of murder victims, for their witness of the reconciliation and their work to end the death penalty.

Jubilarians of 2004

You are invited to a reception honoring our Jubilarians:
September 25, 2004
2:00-3:30 P.M.
Madonna Hall
LaVerna Heights

Sr. Magdalene Bergmann - 70 Years

What is 70 years of religious profession to Sr. Magdalene? It began with a retreat with the Sisters of St. Joseph at Marymount College in Salina, continued with acceptance into the novitiate as Novice Anna with the Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual Adoration in Clyde, MO, and continued with her profession of vows as Sr. Magdalene with Mother Pia’s community in Conception, MO, on August 11, 1934. Why three different religious communities? Because of poor eye sight (macular degeneration), she did not think she would be accepted by the Sisters of St. Joseph. Her stay at Clyde found her not at peace with her decision. When she was advised to try Mother Pia’s “poor” group of Franciscan women, there was a feeling of being at home, at peace.

With poor eye sight what service could she offer as a Franciscan sister? From house cleaning, to cooking, to setting up and establishing Motherhouses in Chillicothe and Savannah, to serving as administrator of La Verna Heights Retirement Center, Sr. Magdalene has been a faithful servant in all that she does. She came by cooking naturally (her comment is that the sisters survived her cooking!) as her parents had owned and operated restaurants in Kansas. Her first meal at the elementary grades’ boarding school found her at the door to the kitchen “ordering” her meal. She soon found out that you “ate what you were served”!

God’s plan for her to be administrator happened in an interesting way. When asked who was the administrator for the new nursing home at La Verna Heights, Sr. Magdalene responded, “I don’t know. I suppose someone from our hospital in Marceline, MO.” That wasn’t a satisfactory answer for the state licensure person, who then asked,”Who’s been hiring personnel?” She responded, “I have.”, and ended up signing the papers that gave her the role of administrator, a position that with further education she maintained for 35 years!

Whether it was as study hall monitor at St. Joseph’s Academy in Chillicothe, MO, or as nursing home administrator, Sr. Magdalene was considered a no-nonsense person. She says she used to chuckle at what the students tried to “get over” on her. Men in building trades or repair work learned to trust her judgment and know that shoddy work would not be allowed.

Family is very important to her. She shared a common profession of vows anniversary with her Holy Cross brother, Fr. Fritz. Maintaining personal and family history scrapbooks fills much of her time, and attending family get-togethers brings her much enjoyment.

Sister Magdalene remains an active involved person. Attending Andrew County Ministries’ meetings, managing the work of the Andrew County Food Pantry, and participating in community meetings are ways she continues serving the God who called her to this way of life.

Sr. Raphael - 55 Years

Sr. Raphael is celebrating her 55 anniversary of profession. She professed her vows on June 20, 1949, in Chillicothe. Many and varied have been her ministries in our community. Teaching, formation director, seamstress, provincial superior, and vicar to name a few. But what most people probably think of first are her gifts and talents in the kitchen.

With the arrival of Spring, Sr. Raphael can be found in her garden planting a variety of vegetables and tending the asparagus and rhubarb patches. Many hours are spent tending her garden and harvesting its produce, along with the fruits and vegetables that are given to us. Sr. Raphael sets for all of us an example of stewardship as she takes care to use or preserve for future use, the fruits of the earth. She is very mindful of not letting things go to waste. So when produce shows up at the kitchen door from someone’s garden or the local orchard calls regarding peaches or tomatoes she quickly responds that she will be glad to accept the gift. Enlisting her volunteers to peel, core, and stem, she then proceeds to can tomato juice, applesauce, beets and peaches, or to make jellies and relishes.

When she is not preparing a meal or canning, Sr. Raphael is often found baking bread, cinnamon rolls or pies. The aroma of fresh pastries baking permeates the upper floors of the building and puts everyone on alert for the anticipated treat. Once Sr. Raphael has discovered what someone likes in the way of foods, especially baked goods, it is not uncommon to see our guests departing with a loaf of their favorite bread, or some other delicacy she has prepared. Baked goods prepared by Sr. Raphael have also become one of the most sought after items at our annual Friends of LaVerna Fundraiser. These Bakery Baskets containing a variety of breads, rolls, jellies and relishes, have been the objects of some rather aggressive bidding wars between some very determined individuals.

Sr. Raphael’s generosity with time and talents, her prayerful spirit, her reverence for creation and her dedication and commitment to God are examples for all of us. May she continue to bring nourishment of body and spirit to those she serves.

Sr. Marie Long - 50 Years

Marie Long, daughter of George Albert and Frances Mary Homer Long, entered our community at St. Francis Convent in Chillicothe, Missouri on February 13, 1951. (See photo of Marie as a postulant pictured with her Mom at St. Francis Convent. As can be witnessed here, her mother always came bearing gifts.)

When Marie was invested on August 12, 1952, she was given the name of Sr. Mary Helen. (Later she chose to return to her baptismal name.) She committed her life to Christ with her profession of vows on February 13, 1954. This fulfilled the wish she had nurtured since the age of six: to be a religious sister. (See photo in front of the Motherhouse in Chillicothe.)

Having earned her Bachelors of Science in education from St. Mary College in Leavenworth, Kansas in 1949, and having already taught one year, Sr. Marie began a long teaching career as a Sister of St. Francis. She taught in various parishes in Missouri and Iowa with the longest period in Marceline, Missouri.

Among her talents Sr. Marie is most known for her musical ability (her voice), her humorous way of looking at life, and her artistic creativity. Throughout the liturgical seasons her banners continue to adorn the podium of our Motherhouse chapel and are also displayed in other locations in the house. (See photo of putting the finishing touches on a banner.)

A change occurred in 1977 for Sr. Marie. For many years she had  longed to return to the state of Louisiana where her parents had been born and raised and where she had visited numerous times. She secured a teaching position at St. Paul’s in Lafayette and from there went on to teach in other parish schools in New Orleans from 1977 to 1984.

In 1985 she retired in her beloved state of Louisiana and continues to live there, residing in a seniors’ retirement complex. During the last years she has had some health struggles, but remains cheerfully independent and happy.

Sr. Rebecca Brennan - 40 Years

“It is not worthwhile to dedicate one’s life for any cause inferior to that of love or to work hard for anything that is not inspired by redeeming love and does not serve its cause. But the cause of love for which Christ came is, indeed, worth all dedication and even all sufferings.” This quote from Bernard Häring’s Heart of Jesus is indicative of Sr. Rebecca’s life, most especially her 40 years of religious profession. In a prior newsletter issue, Sr. Rebecca wrote of her ministry of suffering which has been a major factor in all that she does, and more so in the last seven years. These years of suffering are a special gift to our community, to the Church, and to all those we serve.

In her early years, Sr. Rebecca was convinced that God was calling her to religious life. After attending a week at our Provincial House in Savannah, she made plans to attend our aspirancy high school. In 1963 she committed her life to God as a religious by professing her vows. Shortly after that she began her teaching career which began at St. Therese School in Parkville, MO, continued at Bishop Hogan in Chillicothe, MO, and evolved into educating new members as director of formation. In 1987, her desire was to work in the healthcare field as a hospital chaplain. She continued in this work and as Director of Hospital Ministry for the Johnson County Kansas Catholic community until 1996, when illness prevented her from continuing.

Each change in Sr. Rebecca’s life has been a part of her suffering, of letting go. But it has not prevented her from enjoying life. From playing cards with family or community members, to writing letters of encouragement to friends and family, Sr. Rebecca brings joy and hope to others. As she wrote in her “Redemptive Suffering” article, “We are called to fill up what is still lacking in the suffering Body of Christ. It is the Lord’s grace that helps us endure. We do not boast of our sufferings, but rather boast of God’s work within us.”

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Winter 2004

September Jubilee Celebration

Jubilee and Sale held in September, 2004...

Congratulating our faithful employees for their long years of service at the annual Employee Recognition Dinner...

Sr. Judith and Sr. Mary Ellen participating in the T.O.U.C.H. program (Touch Our Unique Catholic Handicapped)...

Christmas Celebrations 2004

Every Christmas is special in our convent, but this year seemed extra special. From the beautiful poinsettias and Christmas trees donated for our chapel decorations to the many messages and gifts from family, friends, staff, and generous benefactors; from the remembrances in prayer coming to us from far and wide, to the guests who came to share the holiday with us, the celebration of the Birth of Our Lord filled us with warmth.

These pictures (9 below) show scenes of our celebration: our beautiful chapel, Sr. Kathleen blessing the Christmas tree, our guests: the Burak and Seaboldt families and of course the Sisters. We especially delighted in the Christmas Eve appearance of that jolly old elf, Santa. Another wonderful experience was the opportunity to experience again the joy of Christmas through the delight of a child, Charisma Burak. May the light of Christ permeate this New Year of grace for all.

Preparations for a Vision of Our Future Together

As members of the USA Province of the Franciscans of Vöcklabruck (the name of our particular Franciscan congregation,) we are preparing for our Provincial Chapter in September of this year. Next year, the three provinces of this congregation will convene for our General Chapter of Elections and Affairs.

How are we as a province community and as a whole congregation of Sisters preparing for this big event in 2006? We are working on several issues of primary importance in our lives, to better understand them and live them in a meaningful way today, especially in answering the needs of our time. Our main focus is on our particular congregation’s charism, our Constitutions and our Ministries.

As far as the USA Province, we are beginning our preparations by taking our cue from the theme Franciscan Federation Conference ongoing task force called “Freeing the Flame.” The work of this task force began last year and will continue for the next few years. The four “Flames” to be freed in our lives are: The Flame of the Gospel (we take the flame of the Gospel and ponder what we can do together to “free its fire”), The flame of our Evangelical Identity (Who we are as Third Order and the continuing study of our charism), The Flame of the Global Community (our “way” in the universal community, our responsibilities and challenges) and The Flame of Ecclesial Relationship (our relationships within the Church and our role of healing broken relationships in the family of God.). Workshops on these themes will be held in various regional locations around the country so that every Franciscan Third Order congregation will be able to have input and a voice in the process.

Taking these ideas we will work to shape a vision of our future. In our consideration we will not lose sight of these essentials:

• Fidelity to our charism and core values as Franciscans of Vöcklabruck

• Integrity as we live our simple way of life

• Remaining committed to ministerial involvement and mission with the poor and those on the margins.

Members of our USA province have a strong faith and trust relationship with God. We put our confidence in the providence of God and believe that we will be led by the Spirit of God to make wise choices. We pray constantly that we will be guided in our discernment of our future. 

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