1. religion and spirituality
2. christianity
3. catholicism

Sisters of St. Francis Oldenburg, Indiana
Spring 2015, Vol. 45 No. 1
Inside
3
Council’s Message
S. Maureen Irvin
4-5
Associate Jubilarians
6
7
8
Sisters in the News
Take Me Out to the
Ballgame
Back in the ’Burg
S
. Angela Betsch
S. Doris Holohan
9
Making a
Big Difference
through Little Portion
10
Come Celebrate
Sustainable Farming!
12-13
Check out what’s
happening at
the Center
14
May’s Memorial Mass
15
Resting in God
S
. Laurencia Listerman
S. Carol Ann Angermeier
S. Alice Ann Deardorff
16
Going Once …
Going Twice …
Springtime
in the
’Burg
Council Corner
Happy Spring!
Percy Bysshe Shelley welcomes the season with these words:
And Spring arose on the garden fair,
Like the Spirit of Love felt everywhere…
S. Maureen Irvin, OSF
• Native of Bloomington, IL
• Second child of five born to the late Maurice and
Gertrude (Franks) Irvin
• Entered Religious Life in 1966
• Professed final vows in 1973
• Earned an undergraduate degree at Marian
University, and a master’s degree at St. Louis
University
• Ministered in Catholic elementary and secondary
schools for 16 years, served as Vocation Director
and member of the Sisters’ Leadership Team.
Served as Justice and Peace Coordinator for
another Franciscan community.
• Currently serves as the Congregational Minister
on the Sisters’ Leadership Team.
CELEBRATE Staff
Editor
Photography
Circulation
Circulation
Circulation
Sue Siefert
Staff
S. Helen Eckstein, OSF
Jo Ann Butt
S. Michelle Corliss, OSF
A publication of the Sisters of St. Francis
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Send to: Sisters of St. Francis
PO Box 100
Oldenburg, IN 47036
As we are gladdened by the arrival of spring, we also rejoice that Sisters
Laurencia Listerman, Carol Ann Angermeier, and Alice Ann Deardoff have now
entered the springtime of their heavenly rest. They shared the Spirit of Love with
so many others through their presence and service.
Sharing the Spirit of Love and proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus are at the heart
of our ministry to and with others. In this Celebrate, we share the stories of
Sisters Shirley Gerth, Rose Marie Weckenman, Noella Poinsette and Dominica
Doyle. We also feature Sisters Doris Holohan, Angela Betsch, and Millie Speed,
who exemplify the rich and fulfilling lives our Sisters continue in retirement
here in Oldenburg.
We, Oldenburg Franciscans, share the Spirit of Love in our celebrations. Some
of our favorites are our Jubilee observances for Sisters and Associates, and our
Memorial Mass. In this issue we showcase our 2015 Associate Jubilarians. They
actively share in the prayer, Franciscan life and ministry of the Sisters of St.
Francis. Congratulations to each of them! Our May 17 Memorial Mass will honor
the lives of our Sisters, Associates and Co-Workers who died in 2014 or 2009.
You are invited to join us as we celebrate their resurrected joy with our God.
You share the Spirit of Love with us as you support our fundraising endeavors.
We hope you will participate in our exciting and unique auction, the return of
our Cardinals & Reds Baseball Raffle ... which is bigger and better than last
year, and our always enjoyable farm celebration to be held on June 13.
May our God share the Spirit of Love with you and those who are special to you
this spring and throughout this year. We frequently pray for you and welcome
you to submit prayer requests through our website. Spring brings Easter hope
and new life.
May the risen Christ bless you with
alleluia peace and joy!
Gratefully,
S. Maureen Irvin
Phone: 812-934-2475
OldenburgFranciscans.org
“Like” us on Facebook
Franciscan Sisters of Oldenburg
2
Our cover photo was taken by
S. Stephanie Zimmer, OSF.
Direction Statement
Through contemplation
we embrace anew the
prophetic message of Jesus,
impelling us to hope-filled,
compassionate presence
and collaborative,
transformative action
impacting our universe.
CELEBRATE, Spring 2015, Vol. 45 No. 1
A M essage from the Council
In 2008, the Vatican’s Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of
Apostolic Life announced an Apostolic Visitation
of all congregations of active religious Sisters in
the United States. Every community was assessed
through written questionnaires, telephone
interviews, and in some cases by an on-site team of
visitors from other religious congregations.
A report of the findings was released in Rome at
a press conference on December 8, 2014. This
summary document called upon U.S. Sisters to
continue discerning how best to live the Gospel in
fidelity to their orders’ founding ideals while facing
declining numbers and aging membership. The
Sisters of St. Francis of Oldenburg are among the many U.S. religious
communities experiencing these trends.
For most of the 19th and 20th centuries, Sisters received little or no
compensation for their ministries and no retirement benefits. Even
when “lay equivalent” salaries came into vogue, we had Sisters who
felt called to minister with economically disadvantaged populations for
lesser stipends. All Sisters who were able to do so sent a portion of their
income to the Motherhouse to help support those who were retired or infirm,
to pay for the education and formation of new members and for the upkeep
of the Motherhouse. Our Sisters in leadership were blessed with wisdom and
foresight, and our congregation bought into Social Security when we were
allowed to do so by law. Those leaders also set up a special fund used only for
retirement needs.
Seeing the implications of current trends and acknowledging the Church’s
gratitude for the various ministries of Religious, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops instituted an annual
national collection to assist religious orders in meeting the needs of their retired and infirm members. This collection,
to which Catholics have been very generous, is overseen by the National Religious Retirement Office (NRRO), which
distributes grants to religious communities based on need.
We, the Sisters of St. Francis, are involved in a strategic planning process sponsored by the NRRO. It includes an
assessment of our current buildings and grounds and a plan for their future use. As our good friends, supporters and
Celebrate readers, we ask you to pray for us in this process. We will keep you informed as any major decisions are made.
Our master plan will be developed by the end of 2015.
You are an important part of the lives and mission of the Sisters of St. Francis.
We are grateful to you for partnering with us in prayer and ministry.
With our Associates, co-workers, benefactors and friends, we continue to be a vital and
positive presence in the Church, in Southeastern Indiana and across the United States.
OldenburgFranciscans.org
3
Celebrating Our Associate
Associate Mission Statement
As Associates of the Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, we desire to follow the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
For the common good, we wish to give of ourselves and our goods to the many communities in which we
are involved. We seek to be especially mindful of and helpful to the poor, the oppressed, and destitute of
our community. All that we possess is gift from God which we gratefully receive and freely share.
25 Years
I was a vowed member of the Oldenburg Franciscans for nearly 25 years and now celebrate
25 years as an Associate. At first, I desired association as a continuity with the Sisters in a time of
change. I have discovered that connections with other laypersons who love the Franciscan way are an
equal blessing. It is a source of strength and joy to feel a part of the Sisters’ ministry as I volunteer
in my parish, as a court advocate for children in my county and as a member of the Cincinnati
Troubadours who meet each month to pray and study the spiritual life.
Carol Ann Morrow
Being an Associate with the Sisters at Oldenburg has allowed me to continue to
serve God by helping and praying for the poor.
Tammy Fuller
Kansas City, MO
Union, KY
I enjoy reading Community News and keeping everyone in prayer as a
Minister of Praise. My Associate relationship is one of the most
rewarding relationships in my life.
Esther Glover
Kansas City, MO
Being an Associate with the Sisters at Oldenburg has supported my being
an aide to others in need and my devotions in prayer.
Kim Jones
Kansas City, MO
I have enjoyed spending time at Prayer Lodge and attending programs there.
I have grown spiritually because of my Associate relationship and
have felt supported and loved.
Leah Lone Bear
Lame Deer, MT
4
Congratulations!
CELEBRATE, Spring 2015, Vol. 45 No. 1
Jubilarians ...
15 Years
My Associate relationship has helped me to live in the present, to be more aware
of the gifts I have in the here and now. I do not dwell on the past or
worry about the future.
Shirley Beeler
Batesville, IN
When S. Mary Laurel Hautman asked if anyone in our class was interested in
becoming an Associate, I immediately replied “Yes.” Until that time, I had a deep
faith, a sense of the presence of God, a love of St. Francis, and a “Franciscan
Spirit” that I had embraced from being taught by S. Estelle Nordmeyer. Discussion
with S. Mary made me realize that spiritual direction was not for Sisters only, but
could be very helpful in deepening my own spiritual life. For many years I was
busy about many things. God was there but often playing only a minor role. Since
my retirement and admission into the Associate relationship, I am happy that this
role seems to be always increasing. Living so close to Oldenburg has been truly
a blessing. Attending Sunday Mass and at times weekday liturgies, enjoying the
Lenten Series, sharing with the Gubbio Group, and sharing communion with the
Sisters in St. Clare Hall are but a few of the opportunities that have proven to be
valuable for my spiritual growth.
Judith Anderson
Greenfield, IN
Being an Associate has been one of the most beautiful experiences for me.
I especially enjoyed the gatherings at Nia Kuumba.
Vera Ellerson
Chris Hannigan-Wiehn
Woodbridge, IL
I am filled with gratitude for the Charism of the Oldenburg Franciscan Sisters. It
has been a gift for every aspect of my life. I have benefited a great deal from the
preached and private retreats at Oldenburg and I have found the time spent there
has nurtured my mind, body and spirit. When I made my permanent commitment
as an Associate I knew I wanted to continue living my life embracing not only
the gospel, but the Vision and Journey of this very special community of Sisters
and Associates.
St. Louis, MO
Being an Associate has been special to me because having that special connection
with the Sisters of St. Francis has continued to bring me closer to Jesus.
I have dearly loved my association with the Franciscans. Going to retreats
at Oldenburg were very special times for me. Our Franciscan group at Little
Flower Church in Indianapolis is wonderful. I feel that the love, prayers, and
companionship of this group have been my stronghold. May God bless them all
abundantly in their journey.
Dorothy Spalding
Indianapolis, IN
Janet Schindler
Cincinnati, OH
At mass one Sunday, Father said we have two dogs within us, one good and
one evil. The one that wins is the one that is best fed. I feel that being an
Associate is feeding my good dog very well! I am always uplifted
whenever I come to Oldenburg.
Carol Vaughn
Milton, KY
OldenburgFranciscans.org
5
Sisters in the News …
S. Shirley Gerth
was featured in The Versailles Republican in
an article about her ministry as the Parish Life
Coordinator for St. Maurice parish in Napoleon
and St. John parish in Osgood, IN.
Within the article it was noted, “Her desire to be
a Catholic Sister came from her parents and their
bringing her up in the faith. ‘They also, through
their example, taught me of the importance of
being of service to others,”
The article went on to note, “‘God so loved the world that he gave …’ has
been the foundation of her life as a servant of God. In being of service
to God’s people, she has received so much more than she has given. In
people of all ages, she has seen the face of God, and their love for God has
deepened her own love of God. She especially likes being a Parish Life
Coordinator because it allows her to work with people of all ages.”
S. Rose Marie Weckenmann
was featured in the Cincinnati archdiocesan
newspaper, The Catholic Telegraph, noting her
retirement from the archdiocesan Media Center. S.
Eileen Connelly, OSU, interviewed S. Rose Marie
and wrote, “The most rewarding aspect of her
ministry S. Rose Marie is quick to point out, has
been assisting patrons in locating and obtaining
materials. ‘I love interacting with the patrons.
We receive many calls from people who aren’t
exactly sure what they are looking for. I love
helping them find the information and resources they need.’
As she prepared for retirement, S. Rose Marie noted, ‘I will miss my
colleagues, but am looking forward to what the future holds and am eager
about moving on to new possibilities. It is in the ordinary that I have learned
to live life. Being attuned to the present moment brings me in touch with
God, myself and others. Everything is a gift. I am grateful for all that has
been and continues to be part of my journey.’”
S. Noella Poinsette’s
photography was featured in the exhibit, Our
Brothers and Sisters South of La Frontera, at the
MoonTree Studios in Donaldson, IN from January
24 through March 6.
A studio press release noted, “Noella was gifted
with her first SLR camera after volunteering as a
musician. Ministry then took her to teaching on
the Pine Ridge Reservation where she delighted
in photographing vistas of South Dakota, Native
Americans at pow-wows, and the Red Cloud students.
She spent time in Central America—Nicaragua, El Salvador, and
Guatemala—and volunteered in ministry at the U.S./Mexico border. Hearing
the stories--the struggles and the joys of these people—and experiencing
some of it with them inspired, challenged, and delighted her, but also
fostered internal conflict because of the barriers standing in the way for
others who hope to share our dream of freedom and better lives in the United
States for their children.
Noella explains, ‘My camera has often led me to see what I would otherwise
have blindly passed by. It’s been a way of calling me into a greater
appreciation of nature, calling me to a quiet that is prayer; a silence in which
I’m attuned to my spirit, the God within and around me.’”
6
OA President—Diane Laake; S. Dominica Doyle; and
OA Principal—Bettina Rose
S. Dominica Doyle
OA’s Volunteer of
is named
the Year
Oldenburg Academy of the Immaculate Conception
bestowed its prestigious “Outstanding Volunteer
of the Year” Award to S. Dominica Doyle, OSF
during their annual Catholic Schools Week Mass on
January 27.
S. Dominica was born in Indianapolis, the second
of four children. After attending Our Lady of
Lourdes grade school and Immaculate Conception
Academy/Oldenburg Academy, she entered the
Sisters of St. Francis in 1937. S. Dominica went
on to receive degrees from Marian University,
Creighton University and certifications from the
University of Cincinnati and Xavier University.
The Franciscan ministered as a teacher and
administrator from 1944 – 2005. Thirty-nine of
those years were spent at St. Michael School in
Brookville, IN. In 2004 she received the Catholic
School Values Award from the Archdiocese of
Indianapolis.
Not one to rest, S. Dominica started volunteering
for OA in the summer of 2005. Some of the
services she provided the Academy over the last
ten years include: counting money and preparing
deposits; filing paid invoices, deposit slips,
student files, and cafeteria reports; adding hours
on timecards; checking math on reports; ensuring
birthday cards were delivered on time; creating files
for new students and vendors; proofreading and
alphabetizing; shredding; stuffing envelopes and
helping with mailings.
OA President Diane Laake states: “Her tenacious
dedication to others, to her religious community
and, most importantly, to God make S. Dominica
a role model for our young men and women at
the Academy and an inspiration for the rest of
us. We are proud to honor S. Dominica Doyle,
as Oldenburg Academy’s 2015 Outstanding
Volunteer”.
CELEBRATE, Spring 2015, Vol. 45 No. 1
Sisters of St. Francis ~ PO Box 100 ~ Oldenburg, IN
PERMIT # 134793
Proceeds to Benefit
Sisters’
Retirement Fund
2ND ANNUAL CARDINALS VS REDS RAFFLE
$5 PER TICKET -OR- 5 TICKETS FOR $20
DRAWING
Monday, April 6, 2015
Reds ~ Opening Day
1ST PRIZE: 4 Box Seats at Busch Stadium in St. Louis, MO
Monday, July 27th at 7:15 PM CST
Includes: Game Night 2 Rooms at Hilton Hotel ~ At Busch with a Stadium View
$300 Spending Money • Complimentary Drinks Throughout Game
2ND PRIZE: 4 Box Seats at Cincinnati’s Great American Ball Park
Tuesday, August 4th at 7:10 PM EST
Includes: Game Night 2 Rooms at Hyatt Regency Hotel ~ Near Great American Ballpark
$150 Spending Money
3RD PRIZE: CHOICE of REDS or CARDINALS Fan-Friendly Gift Basket
4TH PRIZE: REDS or CARDINALS Fan-Friendly Gift Basket Not Chosen by 3rd Prize Winner
Sisters of St. Francis ~ Oldenburg, IN
Sisters of St. Francis ~ Oldenburg, IN
Sisters of St. Francis ~ Oldenburg, IN
2ND Annual
Cardinals vs Reds Raffle
2ND Annual
Cardinals vs Reds Raffle
2ND Annual
Cardinals vs Reds Raffle
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ADDRESS_ __________________________
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PHONE_ ____________________________
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Sisters of St. Francis ~ Oldenburg, IN
Sisters of St. Francis ~ Oldenburg, IN
2 Annual
Cardinals vs Reds Raffle
2 Annual
Cardinals vs Reds Raffle
Please feel free to make
copies of this page
in color or black & white
so you can help us with sales.
Please have all sold tickets
back to Oldenburg by
Friday April 3, 2015.
Attention: S. Pat Murray
PO Box 100,
Oldenburg, IN 47036
Drawing will be Monday,
April 6, 2015
at Dinner [Lunch Time]
THANK YOU!
ND
ND
NAME______________________________
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OldenburgFranciscans.org
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B ack in the ‘B urg ...
What has been your favorite ministry?
Teaching has been my favorite. I’m from a big family and there were always
little ones at home to care for. I didn’t expect to be a teacher but was glad to
be trained for it. I especially enjoy former students who come to visit now
and tell me stories of what they learned.
What has been your favorite memory?
Last year was my 70th Jubilee celebration. We celebrated with the Sisters;
then I had a Family-and-Friends party later on. It was wonderful to see all the
pictures of years gone by and to share stories with my family. Many former
students sent cards and letters which made that Jubilee time so memorable.
S. Angela Betsch, OSF
• Native of Cincinnati, OH
• Second of nine children born to Frank and
Antoinette (Peters) Betsch
• Entered Religious Life in 1944
• Professed final vows in 1950
• Ministered as teacher, principal, nurse assistant,
missionary in Papua New Guinea, staff person
at Cooke’s Manor, and communications office
assistant
What have you been involved in since returning to the Motherhouse?
I loved teaching religious education for five or six years across the street at
Holy Family Church. The Adopt-a-Sis program with the Academy is a joy.
Once a week I go to St. Andrew’s Health Care Center to assist Fr. Humbert
Moster with liturgy. Most days I help in our stamp room here at Oldenburg.
And I can’t forget the card club I belong to in the neighborhood! Being in the
Sisters’ chime choir is an opportunity to enhance our liturgies.
What would you tell someone considering joining the Oldenburg Franciscans?
It’s a wonderful life if that’s what God wants you to do. How many people
really find opportunities to grow in prayer? That is offered in religious life,
as well as the chance to live in community with like-minded others.
• Back in the ’Burg since 1996, retired in 2003
What has been your favorite ministry?
My favorite was being a Personality and Human Relations educator in PNG.
I helped the women to develop their self-image and not be satisfied with
the role assigned to them by their tribe. I did similar work when I was at the
teacher college.
What has been your favorite memory?
For five years I felt I had a call to work in PNG. Because of allergies, I was
kept from going with the initial missionaries. Mother Marie said that once I
had clearance from my doctor, I could go. That was a memorable day!
S. Doris Holohan, OSF
• Native of Streator, IL
• Tenth of sixteen children born to John and Ann
(Meyer) Holohan
• Entered Religious Life in 1953
• Professed final vows in 1958
• Ministered as a teacher in the USA and in Papua
New Guinea, assistant administrator at the
teacher college, personality and human relations
educator, and advisor to the native Franciscan
Sisters of Mary, all in PNG
What have you been involved in since returning to the Motherhouse?
I take a turn as a hostess at St. Clare Hall lobby door. I like to be of service
to the Sisters by being a Minister of Care and a Transitus Sister (sitting with
the dying). The Adopt-a-Sis program with the Oldenburg Academy students
gives me a chance to interact with the young generation.
What would you tell someone considering joining the Oldenburg Franciscans?
If you want to be a woman in the service of others, then come! This life gives
you the chance to help people realize the beauty of who they are before God.
• Back in the ’Burg since 2011
8
CELEBRATE, Spring 2015, Vol. 45 No. 1
Making a
Big Difference
Through the Little
Portion Club
Born in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Mildred Clara Speed’s family moved to
St. Bernard, OH where she attended St. Clement School, and later the Immaculate
Conception Academy (now Oldenburg Academy). Throughout her primary and
secondary education, she quickly became friends with the Franciscan Sisters, and in her
sophomore year, accepted the invitation to enter the Sisters’ novitiate program. She later
furthered her education at the Athenaeum of Ohio, Xavier University, Spalding College
and the University of Dayton.
In 1942, S. Millie Speed began her career in education that would span over five decades
as the Franciscan ministered in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Montana, teaching students
from grades two through eight, and later teaching English to high school students. In
1982 her ministry as a teacher at Bishop Fenwick High School in Middletown, OH
transitioned to the school’s Director of Campus Ministry, where she remained until
1996, encouraging students to reach out to those in need.
Although she found her ministry in education most rewarding, she continued to sense an
inner calling to minister through missionary work,. In 1996 she answered the call and
began serving at St. Mary Church in Tohatchi, NM, where she joined other Sisters from
the Community and served as a parish coordinator, ministering to the Native Americans.
It was while ministering on the reservation that S. Millie gained a greater understanding
of the needs of the poor, and how the Sisters who ministered there were making a
difference.
S. Millie was also familiar with the Community’s Little Portion Club that encouraged
donors to give what they could afford, (similar to the widows’ mite story in St. Mark’s
gospel), to aid in the Sisters’ missionary work. Although the Little Portion dollars
were originally sought to help the Sisters ministering in Papua New Guinea, gradually
the Little Portion funds were being distributed to aid in ministry in the United States,
including the mission in New Mexico.
Witnessing the impact that the Little Portion funds had within her own ministry, S.
Millie sought permission to begin giving mission talks during the time she would return
to Oldenburg each summer. Her offer was quickly accepted by the Council. S. Millie
began traveling to various parishes across the tri-state to spread the good word about
Little Portion—and to encourage parishioners to “give what they could” to help the
Sisters in their mission activities.
S. Millie’s talks, as well as those by other Sisters who spread the word about Little
Portion, were well received, and parishioners responded with donations monthly,
quarterly or annually based on their ability to give. In her later years after S. Millie
moved home to the Motherhouse in 2005, she remained active in giving mission talks.
When her failing eyesight prevented her from travelling, she continued to serve on the
Little Portion board, and wrote the annual appeal’s newsletter copy.
Beginning in March, at the age of 90, S. Millie will retire from her work with the Little
Portion Club as she welcomes Sisters Amy Kistner and Sue Ann Vallo to the helm.
When asked what has been her favorite memory while working with Little Portion, S.
Millie was quick to respond,
“The excitement to be able to beg on behalf of the poor,
sharing their stories and witnessing the generosity of so
many who gave what they could to enable our Sisters to
continue their missionary work.”
Well done, S. Millie. You have made a big difference in the
lives of the poor through your work with Little Portion!
OldenburgFranciscans.org
The History of the
Little Portion Club
In May 1960, very shortly after
Capuchin Father Otmar Gallagher
requested Sisters for the Capuchin
missions in Papua New Guinea— and
even before those sisters were chosen,
Mother Mary Cephas selected
S. Hortense Fougerousse from her
council to serve as mission procurator.
By 1961, S. Hortense had established the
Little Portion Club as an organized way
to donate money and supplies for the
Papua New Guinea missions.
Their vision was a concept of helping
those most in need by suggesting the
notion that if everyone could give a
“little portion” of what they have to
help the mission work there would be
enough to provide ongoing support for
the work of our missionary sisters. Their
work gradually extended to include
foreign missions and mission work
across the United States as well.
Today, the Little Portion Club
continues to be our most vital link in
assisting missionary efforts. Some send
their “Little Portion” monthly; others
choose to send a quarterly or yearly
donation.
Whatever comes, little or more, our
missionary Sisters truly appreciate all
gifts that help to support their efforts in
areas that need true assistance.
9
Join us as we
CELEBRATE
Michaela Farm
Saturday - June 13
with an evening of great food, music, dancing
and the excitement of the Silent Auction all in
the historic brick barn!
Enjoy live entertainment in the barn, and be sure to check out the
Silent Auction featuring treasured items from the convent and
beyond. Tractor-drawn wagon rides will be offered throughout
the evening affording guests the opportunity to tour the scenic
farm behind the scenes.
Tickets are $50 each—must be 21 or older to attend, and are
limited to the first 200 who respond, so reserve your tickets now!
Name:_______________________________________________________
Name:_______________________________________________________
Name:_______________________________________________________
Name:_______________________________________________________
Address:_______________________________________________________
City, ST, ZIP:_______________________________________________________
Email:_______________________________________________________
Phone:_______________________________________________________
Total Enclosed for Tickets: $______________
I/We cannot attend, but please accept this donation: $______________
An email confirmation will be sent confirming your reservation, and tickets
will be available at the registration area. Ticket price includes the buffet-style
dinner, two complimentary drink tickets, entertainment and wagon rides.
10
CELEBRATE, Spring 2015, Vol. 45 No. 1
D onor S potlight
In-Kind Items
Needed by the
Sisters
♦Cancelled Postage Stamps — any
denomination, please leave at
least 1/4” of the envelope attached
around the stamp
♦Golf Carts — used by both the
Sisters and the Farm Staff
♦10 - 15 Cubic Foot Chest Freezer
— for use by the Farm Staff
♦Zip-Lock Storage Bags — gallon,
sandwich & snack sizes
♦Canning Jars — 8 oz. Jelly Jars,
Pint and Quart Jars are needed at
the Farm, unfortunately odd-size
jars cannot be accepted
♦Wild Bird Seed and Cat Food —
for the Farm
If you have any of these items to
donate, please contact Sue Siefert
at 812-933-6460.
Sisters of St. Francis
PO Box 100
Oldenburg, IN 47036
ATTN: Sue Siefert, Development Director
Monetary and in-kind gifts will be
acknowledged for your tax purposes.
Thank You for
remembering the Sisters!
Mary Grein, this month’s Spotlight Donor, missed the
last issue of Celebrate because she forgot to alert us to
the fact that she had moved. The ninety-one year old
sister-in-law of the late S. Mildred Grein is now happily
living in an assisted living home in Seymour, IN.
Born in Orleans, Indiana, Mary had a busy life with her
family, and later in life decided to attend nursing school
at age fifty. “I’m so glad I did that,” she said. “I met a
lot of good people as a nurse and learned much from
my career years.”
Mary has good memories of visiting S. Mildred at
Oldenburg. “She always had so many wonderful stories
Mary Grein
to tell about her teaching years and later on about her
retirement ministries.”
Mary’s son Jim lives in the Seymour area while daughter Judy resides in Virginia.
Mary has nine grandchildren scattered throughout the country.
“We always donated in honor of, and then in memory of, S. Mildred. Her good works
live on in all of the Sisters.”
Thinking of becoming a
Michaela Farm CSA Subscriber?
Community Sponsored Agriculture is a great way for a community to know,
personally, where its food comes from and who grows it. As a subscriber, you’ll have
input on what is grown and how it is grown, and can experience the pains and joys
of a food source truly connected with the rhythms and seasons of the farm’s climate.
You’ll invest a certain amount of your financial resources in the farm, and in return,
receive a share of its produce once a week. From farm to fork with only your kitchen
in between.
1. We use natural growing practices without the use of synthetic fertilizers or
chemically based pesticides.
2. Our farm practices build the soil and increase fertility. We take care of the earth
with the future in mind.
3. We want to connect with YOU. Join our CSA and you can see exactly where your
produce comes from--take a tour, or even volunteer.
4. We’d also like to get to know you personally and receive your input on what sorts
of veggies we are growing.
5. Supporting our farm buys more than just a share of veggies; your subscription
supports local food, local businesses, and the mission and work of the Sisters of
St. Francis.
6. We’ll let you know in a weekly newsletter just what to do with the produce in your
box, including storage tips and cooking tips. Check your email box.
7. When you pick up your share, you can rest assured that your produce is fresh and
not driven across the country before it comes to your kitchen.
8. CSA subscribers are treated with special respect! Because you are willing to invest
in the farm, we are reducing prices for you. All CSA members receive 10% off
any farm store produce in the upper farm store. This does not include beef, eggs or
honey in the lower farm store.
This year’s Spring/Summer CSA runs from May 12-15 to September 22-25.
Enrollment is now open … to learn more, please visit:
http://MichaelaFarmCSA.OldenburgFranciscans.org
OldenburgFranciscans.org
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12
CELEBRATE, Spring 2015, Vol. 45 No. 1
OldenburgFranciscans.org
13
W e R emember …
R esting in G od
You are invited to join the
Sisters of St. Francis
as we remember Sisters, Associates & Co-Workers
who passed away in 2009 or 2014.
A Memorial Mass
will be celebrated at 1:30 p.m. on
Sunday - May 17 in the Sisters’ Chapel.
Cemetery Visitation to follow.
Reception will be held in the OA Dining Room.
RSVP by May 9 by calling S. Pat Murray, 812-933-6491,
or email pmurray@oldenburgosf.com noting
your name, the person you are remembering and the number attending.
2009
SISTERS
• S.
• S.
• S.
• S.
• S.
• S.
• S.
Rebecca Hoffman
Rachel Schulte
Laetitia Meyer
Marie Celine Wilhelm
Mary Emmett Lawrence
Dolores Jean Nellis
Inez Schuman
ASSOCIATES
• Kathleen LeHayne
• Gertrude Irvin
• Georgianna Gibson
• Mary Marischen
• Audrey Olthaus
CO-WORKER
• Carolyn Siefert
14
2014
SISTERS
• S.
• S.
• S.
• S.
• S.
• S.
• S.
• S.
• S.
Constance Smith
Jonette Scheidler
Laurita Kroger
Teresa Carol Van Compernolle
Carmen de Barros
Kathleen McShay
Helen Saler
Karla Barker
Laurencia Listerman
ASSOCIATES
• Fern Amrhein
• Laura He Does It
• Donna Behne
CO-WORKERS
• Anna Holtel
• Louise Haungs
• Christine K. Graham
• Janette Munchel
• Alvina Herbert
S. Laurencia Listerman, OSF
went home on November 20, offering the the
fruits of her 101 years on earth to her God as
she began her new eternal life.
Helen Listerman, the fourth of five children,
was born on April 25, 1913, to Henry and
Helen Listerman. In her autobiography,
she describes her life at home as being
“beautiful” because of her parents and
siblings. She graduated from St. Clement
Elementary School in 1927 and from Our
Lady of Angels High School in 1931. In
September of 1931, she became the first
graduate of Our Lady of Angels to enter the
community of the Sisters of St. Francis.
Following her first years in formation as a
Sister, Laurencia served for twelve years as
an elementary teacher, parish organist and
choir director. She often said that those were
such happy years, and she would have liked
to have continued in that vein for the rest
of her teaching career. But the community
recognized her gifts in journalism and
English so her next thirty-seven years were
spent teaching high school.
When she retired to Oldenburg, she
delighted in sharing life with the other
Sisters. Whether leading a discussion group
or distributing candy to the residents of St.
Clare Hall, she was always interested in
making life better, more interesting and more
challenging for the other Sisters.
S. Laurencia was on a never-ending quest
to be a learner throughout her life. She read
continuously, was always open to attending
lectures and workshops, and was eager to
supply her friends and students with books
and articles that would enhance their lives.
S. Laurencia, a woman of strength, did what
our God asked: promoted the best in every
person, loved the life and faith she embraced,
and walked humbly into eternity with God.
Excerpts from the Memorial Letter
written by S. Margie Niemer, OSF, for the
General Council.
CELEBRATE, Spring 2015, Vol. 45 No. 1
d
…
G ifts of
S ecurities
The Sisters of St. Francis of Oldenburg
welcome charitable contributions in the
form of securities donations. Transferring
existing stock (or bond, mutual fund, etc.)
positions to the Sisters provides charitable
and tax benefits to the donor, as well as
benefitting the Sisters.
S. Carol Ann Angermeier, OSF, S. Alice Ann Deardorff, OSF
journeyed home to God, her divine
Gardener on January 5. Baptized Gertrude,
she was the second of eight children born to
Oscar and Wilfrieda Rexing Angermeier.
Living in the Evansville area, Gertrude
attended St. Benedict School, St. Joseph
School and Reitz Memorial High School. She
went on to business college and was employed
during the WWII era while also helping her
mother care for the younger children.
In 1943, Gertrude entered the convent and
later took the name S. Carol Ann. Not only
did she grow spiritually, she also welcomed
the educational opportunities that helped
her blossom into a heart-warming, dynamic
teacher and principal. She graduated from
Marian University and Xavier University,
and attended the University of Cincinnati
and St. Scholastica College. She served
in Catholic schools in Ohio, Indiana and
Missouri for 42 years.
S. Carol Ann’s love for learning was
instilled in the hearts of those lives she
touched. She served as a mentor to other
teachers, principals, parents, parishioners
and friends. Her compassion and care for
others grew a beauty all of its own.
People who knew S. Carol Ann would
tell of her deep faith, friendship, positive
attitude and willingness to share anything
she had. She loved to bake bread and pies,
a trait she learned from her mother. Often
she would invite others over for a meal.
She loved farming. Is it no wonder that she
spent several of her last years volunteering
at our very own Michaela Farm!
As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate
her life. “Unless a grain of wheat falls
to the ground and dies, it remains just a
single grain; but if it dies, it produces much
fruit.” (John 12:24) May S. Carol Ann’s
life continue to produce much fruit as she
intercedes for each of us!
Excerpts from the Memorial Letter written
by S. Joanita Koors, OSF, for the General
Council.
OldenburgFranciscans.org
rested peacefully in God’s arms on Friday,
January 23.
Alice Ann (Rita), the daughter of George
and Elizabeth (Vaughan) Deardorff, was
born in Indianapolis on May 19, 1925.
While growing up during the Depression
years, Alice Ann attended St. Joan of Arc
Elementary School and St. Mary Academy.
When she was twelve years old, her sister
Alice died, an event that was life-changing
for Alice Ann. The Oldenburg Franciscans
at St. Mary Academy attended the funeral,
impressing the grieving family.
During high school Alice Ann learned to
drive a car, took piano lessons, witnessed her
dad’s conversion to Catholicism, and worked
part-time at Murphy’s Dime Store. Following
graduation, Alice Ann entered the convent at
Oldenburg, but health problems forced her to
return home. After regaining her health, she
reentered the convent in February of 1947.
August of 1948 marked the beginning of
S. Alice Ann’s long career of teaching
primary grades. She loved small children and
became a master teacher. Every aspect of
teaching seemed to delight her, but preparing
countless children for First Communion was
something that she deemed a privilege.
In September of 2000, Alice Ann retired to
Oldenburg where she worked in the stamp
room, visited Sisters in St. Clare Hall, and
spent time developing her love for Mary,
and for the rosary. She also began a ministry
of baking cookies for many Sisters and coworkers.
It’s difficult to track how influential a life
has been, but it’s safe to say that hundreds
of children felt confident in reading and
basic math because S. Alice Ann Deardorff
devoted her life to that ministry. She brought
simple, heart-warming, playful joy to our
Franciscan community and we now celebrate
a life well-lived.
Excerpts from the Memorial Letter written
by S. Margie Niemer, OSF, for the General
Council.
As opposed to donating cash, securities
donations are made “in-kind”. This
means securities are donated in their
current form, as opposed to being sold
and donating the proceeds in cash. By
preserving any capital gains that the donor
may have accumulated since purchasing
the security, the donor may donate the
appreciated security to the Sisters and
avoid paying capital gains tax on the
growth of the stock.
For securities with sizeable capital gains,
the ability to donate accumulated capital
gains and deduct the total value of the
donation is a meaningful charitable
strategy.
The value of the donation is tax deductible
to the donor in the tax year in which
the donation is made. There are certain
limitations on the size of donations
and the amount that may be deducted;
accordingly, the Sisters encourage donors
to consult their accountants for specific
tax guidance.
For further information, please contact:
Sue Siefert, Development Director
ssiefert@oldenburgosf.com
812-933-6460
S. Margaret Horney, Treasurer
margh@oldenburgosf.com
812-934-2475
We sincerely appreciate
your support!
15
Sisters of St. Francis
P.O. Box 100
Oldenburg, IN 47036-0100
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 770
Cincinnati, OH
Address Service Requested
PUBLIC AUCTION
Sisters of St. Francis
Saturday - March 28 - 9:30 Am
Preview From 8:00-9:30
Oldenburg Franciscan Center
22143 Main Street—Oldenburg, IN 47036
Items Pictured on Auctionzip.Com
Auctioneer ID# 15077
Dogwood Acres Antiques & Auctions, LLC
812-623-7028 - Mobile: 513-403-7518
John Miller, Auctioneer AU10600069
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Refreshments Available from the Sisters
Street Parking — Facility is Handicap Accessible