BVM Associate Reflections Archive
Francis De Carvalho Testimonial
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Dear Friends and Family,
Over the past few days I found myself seeking God’s help and guidance because I wanted to say something simple but meaningful . That is in response and gratitude to the deep ways in which people in the BVM community have touched me.
And so, I’d like to share something relating to my struggles.
My struggle is that of being Faithful....... to my family, to my marriage, to myself, to God’s call.
“It is not our job to seek to be successful, but to be faithful”...that is one of the thoughts shared by a BVM and I keep close to my heart. Faithfulness to God’s call, leaving the ultimate outcome to our Lord.
I don’t have to look far for examples of faithfulness. I have had the privilege of meeting some modern day saints right here in our BVM community ...like Madre Miguel and Cindy and Annie in Ecuador, like Elizabeth, Marilyn, and Bette BVMs who first invited us to search our hearts, discern and walk with them, I have met and many other BVMs and associates who continue to work faithfully and tirelessly to bring God’s love and caring to those around them.
In each stage of my life, I have heard God calling, sometimes I would listen, other times I would get too wrapped up in the cares of the world...to really listen. That is why I need you. I need you to help me stay faithful. I need you...to keep me honest, accountable, grounded. I need you to encourage me when I have had enough and want to quit, to inspire me when am I feeling weak and defeated. I need you to challenge me when I am feeling selfish and lazy.
I consider my commitment today not only that of becoming a BVM associate but also a renewal of many calls to faithfulness:
My baptismal promises, my confirmation, my marriage vows.
And I feel especially blessed to be called to enter this new chapter in my life alongside my partner in life, my wife, Carol.
The other day, I was doing some reading in Ann Harrington’s book “Creating Community” and the illustration on the cover drew my attention, and I saw Mary Frances Clarke’s face looking at me with kindness and gentleness in a new way. It was as if she was saying “I know of your struggles and human frailties. Come walk with my sisters and brothers, they will be your companions, to help you on your journey.”
This past September I had the opportunity to drive out to the Navajo reservation in Arizona, where I had worked many years ago as a Franciscan lay volunteer, and where I met my wife, a former Jesuit volunteer. In the silence of the Desert House of Prayer surronded by the beautiful landscape...I had time to think about how God permeates all creation, and yearns to bloom in each person in a unique expression of Love.
Over the last months, my BVM group has provided a supportive framework in which together we have been exploring how our new scientific understanding of the universe challenges us to see God and the mystery of the incarnation in new ways.
In this season of hope, it is with humility, deep gratitude, and joy that I join the BVM community as an associate. I ask you to continue to help me walk with you in Mindfulness like the Buddha, to walk in Beauty according to the native Navajo tradition, and to walk in Love as Christ commanded us to do.
PrintLois Nilles Testimonial
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December 8, 2009 will always be an important day in my life. On this day. the feast of the Immaculate Conception, I shared my commitment as a BVM Associate with the BVM Community and fellow Associates here at Mt. Carmel.
At the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass after Communion I made my promises and asked the BVM Congregation to accept me as an Associate.
Sister Donna Schauf, BVM, my companion who prepared me to be an Associate presented me with a pin, and stole made by women of Guatemala.
It was a very happy day-a touch of heaven!
I am grateful to Sister Donna and Sister C. Jean Hayen, BVM and the entire BVM Congregation for enabling me to become an Associate.
My gratitude also to my Associate husband, Dick Nilles, whose good example sparked in my heart the desire to become an Associate.
Lois Nilles
Mary Ann Putman joins relief team to Haiti
On March 20, 2010, I was part of a 16-member response relief team that traveled to Haiti, following the devastating earthquake that struck there a few weeks earlier. This was the first of subsequent short term relief missions to follow over the next several months sponsored by Calvary Community Church located in Westlake Village, California. The church has committed to a long term relief response effort in Haiti, and has formed an alliance with Florida resident, Dr. Julio Volcy, Haitian-born pastor and founder of Hope Outreach International, with the intention of helping Haitians help Haitians. Our team's focus was food/shelter, medical care and execution of the initial phase of a water reservoir project. Our distribution of food, tents for shelter and medical clinic services helped to meet the immediate needs of several hundred Haitian families.
We were greeted at the airport in Port au Prince by Dr. Volcy and his team, and transported to the home of his mother-in-law, where we stayed in tents on the grounds. The Volcy family provided meals, water and bathroom facilities. The home served as the team's residence while in Haiti.
Our first days in Haiti were spent in the remote village of Lemothe, hometown of Dr. Volcy. As a registered nurse, I was part of a medical team consisting of another registered nurse and a physician assistant that worked in conjunction with Haitian nurses, translators and others to implement a medical clinic. Several hundred patients were seen in the clinic, some of whom walked for miles and arrived as early as 3:00 a.m. Infectious diseases, disorders involving the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems, and skin care issues were predominant; some simply needed reassurance. In addition to the clinic services, food, tents, hygiene kits and activity packs for the children were distributed. Over 500 families were given boxes containing rice, beans and cooking oil, and approximately 60 families were provided tents. The initial phase of the water reservoir project was completed and remaining phases will be implemented during future missions.
The epicenter of the January earthquake was in Leogane, the area that suffered the greatest impact. Over 80% of the town's structures were demolished. Dr. Volcy arranged a meeting to which he invited approximately 30 pastors from Leogane. We met with these pastors to hear their stories and deliver food and tents. Under a tarp, where once stood a church, we heard one pastor after another share their loss of church, home and family. Later that day, we met with Hilda Alcindor, Dean of the Nursing School (FSIL) in Leogane, who returned to her Haitian homeland in 2005, after practicing nursing for 30 years in Miami. She described what it was like the day of the quake, "I along with my students, treated over 500 people the day of the quake, delivering babies, suturing and treating wounds that could easily have later ended in amputations....never was I so proud of my students." The professional school of nursing admitted its first class of 36 Haitian students in 2005, and approximately 200 students were enrolled in the class of 2010.
Petionville, where Haiti's only golf course is located, is now the home of nearly 50,000 (day) and up to 100,000 (night) homeless Haitians. Allison Thompson, Medical Director at the Jenkins-Penn Haitian Relief Organization, met us as we arrived to deliver tents and medical supplies there. On site were 5 medical clinics, where an average of 6 babies were born each day, and IV fluids/antibiotics, wound care and many other procedures and conditions were managed daily; transfers to the hospital are infrequent. The efforts at this camp/facility are no less than heroic. Our medical team had planned to work at the facility,but regrettably, we did not.
Maison D' Enfants Par La Foi, is an orphanage located in Carrefour, outside of Port au Prince. The orphanage was established by Rev. Jean Polistin. Presently Rev. Jean's daughter, Celianie Valmond, is operating the orphanage and primary school for 150 orphans. Stanley, 13 years of age, clasped my hand in his and never let go as he escorted me through the orphanage. A 16 year-old girl who stood by quietly, had returned home from the store during the earthquake to find her home leveled and her entire family killed. A father had come to the orphanage that day with his 5 children in hopes of leaving them, but there was not room, according to Celianie. One of the residents, seventeen year-old Mario, asked me in English, "How do you see Haiti?" That question I am still pondering.
Upon returning home from Haiti, family and friends ask, “How was Haiti?” My answer: “Haiti is broken.” It was a privilege to go to Haiti. I did not transform anyone, but I was transformed. Haiti’s future rests in the hands of the Haitian people, who to quote Dr. Julio Volcy, “are resilient.” I met many heroes in Haiti, some of whom I have mentioned, and saw the faces of many others, although I did not know their names. I observed ever so many different colored medical scrubs in the airport, coming and going, representing the many countries who are offering assistance to the people of Haiti.
“What do you wish for your country?” I asked a young Haitian man named Smith, who is nearing the completion of his law degree and who spent a great deal of time with our team as an interpreter. He paused awhile and replied, “To see Haiti beautiful someday, where many come to tour and visit and enjoy our land.” Well said—that would be my wish, too!
Optional Recommitment Prayers
Prayer of BVM Associates that parallels Prayer of Mary Frances Clarke
O Lord Jesus, Keep me ever faithful to the spirit of Mary Frances Clarke –
according to the wisdom of your own heart –
humble, courageous, patient, loving, obedient;
a person of simplicity and prayer steadfast against injustice and violence
and sensitive always to your ways of compassion and to the guidance of your Holy Spirit.
Give me, dear Lord Jesus, the necessary strength and creativity
to make me your hands in the world today. --- Amen (Mary Ann Bradish, BVM)
Recommitment Prayer
Blessed Mary, Mother of Jesus, priestly woman, holy prophet, we greet you and sing “Magnificat” with you this day.
My soul rejoices in God my Savior, My spirit finds its joy in God, who lives today and always.
This day our souls rejoice as we renew our commitment as BVM Associates.
My soul proclaims your wonderful creation; My spirit sings the greatness of your name.
Today we sing with Mary the greatness of God’s name as we reflect on God’s goodness to us, members of the BVM Community.
You cast the powerful from their high places and raise those who are poor and marginalized to new life.
Today may our faithful commitment to those who are poor empower us to share our substance with them.
Just as you promised Abraham and Sarah, You come to free your people from oppression.
Today we enjoy freedom in God’s steadfast love; may we bring that freedom to others.
Now let us be one in spirit as we join with all BVMs and Associates everywhere to proclaim what we believe.
Associate’s Promise
I joyfully accept the challenge and loving support of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary as an Associate.
I accept the responsibility and privilege to contribute my talents and gifts to further justice in our world in partnership with BVMs and other Associates, whether physically or prayerfully.
As I share in the life of Jesus, I am called to give prophetic witness to the mission of Jesus and to be mindful of those who are poor and those suffering in the world.
May this relationship with my BVM Sisters enable me to be freed and to help others enjoy freedom in your steadfast love.
Conclusion:
Mary, Mother of God, may we too be expectant with hope, trusting that the reign of your son will one day dawn and spill its radiance even in the darkest corners of our world. Teach us to live in unity, inspire us to act justly, to revere all that God has made. Root us ever more firmly in the peace of Jesus. Amen (Mary Ann Bradish and Associates)
Celeste Blacio de Rendon was an Associate who lived in Quito. She died several years ago. The following is a prayer written by Celeste.
Prayer to Mary
Dear Mother of God
Take us under your protection and help us create for you, a new world of love, happiness, liberty and justice.
Show us that you wish us to be the new seed for a new world.
Joan Mirabal's Recent Trip to Ecuador
Thoughts About My Trip To Ecuador Joan Mirabal
The Working Boys Center (Centro del Muchacho Trabajador)
What impressed me about this center was the passion of the two BVM’s, Madre Miguel Conway and Madre Cindy Sullivan as they are affectionately called in that environment.
Working with Jesuit, Father John Halligan, they make an extraordinary team. Together they have created a program that empowers young men and women to have a better of life through job training and learning life skills. The education takes place in real life situations. God becomes a part of these young people’s every day experience, not just in the worship at Mass.
This “extraordinarily well oiled machine” has provided great success in developing competent young men and women who fit into society as well as give back to the community through their work and leadership skills. This Center is a Community of workers, made up of staff and volunteers who have every bit as much commitment as the ordained and religious. Perhaps this is the forerunner of what religious life could become. Seeing this Center in operation gave me the opportunity to see that the staff view Christ in the Ecuadorian people they work with.
Nuevo Mundo School Guayaquil
This is an unbelievable school created by two BVM Associates, Pat McTeague and Sonia Rendon. The morning school teaches the wealthy students who support the lower income students that attend in the afternoon. Pat and Sonia had a dream that has come to fruition over many years. They and the staff of the school give equally to each group of students because they see Christ in each one of the students. This school exemplifies the best in education through hard work, team work, and outstanding educational achievement. It is definitely what one could call “A Blue Ribbon School.”
Damien House
Ann Credidio has set up a joyous atmosphere in Damien House. The patients who have had Hanson’s Disease which is no longer contagious greeted our group with gifts. In Damien House the workers are happy and the patients are pleased to be in this environment. This is a testament to the hard work of many, and especially Sister Ann Credidio who gives of herself.
Yachay Wasi
I did not get to see this school but my time with Sister Luann Brown, BVM revealed that she is a loving, giving, and gracious spirit filled woman. She not only works in a school, but provides a Discernment Group to help young Ecuadorian men and women in decision making in whether to make a religious commitment to serve God in their work. Christ is present in this Discernment Group as each one struggles to overcome obstacles to seek a vocation to the priesthood or to religious life.
Present in each sacred place is a dedication to the work of Christ which when one experiences being there meeting and interacting with these BVM’s and Associates will spread to the observer group. The Associates traveling to Ecuador will come to a realization of what commitment means.
Seeking a Homeland
These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for God has prepared for them a city. -- Hebrews 11: 13 – 16
This passage illuminates the faith journey that we travel as sojourners seeking God in the far country. But, in this land of our exile, is it possible to find heaven? I have been privileged to work at such an outpost. Here, the poor, the hungry and the lonely have come for 25 years, assured of a nourishing meal and a warm welcome. Some are considered outcasts, lost on the far margins of society, but in this haven, they are the very heart of an interwoven community of caring people.
One of my guests recently slipped me a note stating, “Heaven is made up of air. You have to breathe it, to be, in it.” Together, we inhale as coffee brews, bacon sizzles, and pancakes are coming hot off the grill, and, unexpectedly, find redemption at daybreak in downtown Albany.
Prayer: Lord, I know heaven when I see it. Some day I will joyfully feast at the banquet table with you, but in the meantime, thank you for this glimpse of home, shared with those I love at the FOCUS Breakfast Program.
Kathy Linhardt, Albany, NY
June 10, 2009
Bob Kutter's Testimonial -- December, 2009 -- San Francisco
I think I was attracted to the BVMs through their various efforts for social justice. My path first crossed with Sister Elizabeth back when she was at Sacred Heart Community Service. Lisa, our kids and I volunteered during the holidays and I remember Elizabeth talking about the impact that we could have on the poor of San Jose.
A number of years later our paths crossed again when we both served on the grant committee for the local CCHD. It was challenging work because there were so many deserving projects and we had limited funds to work with. What I remember is that Elizabeth showed so much respect and care for everyone.
JustFaith was a turning point for me. It was a nine-month immersion in the major social justice issues of our time. Elizabeth coordinated the parish groups and led some of the retreats. It was an intense year, learning so much about the troubles of our world, learning how much I didn’t know. One particular thing I remember is sometimes having a feeling of hopelessness and despair as we learned about more and more injustices that come from modern living.
I think that is where the BVM community comes in. With the values of freedom, charity, education and justice, this community certainly lives and breathes social justice. However, it’s more than that. There is a lightness of spirit, a gratitude for life and a feeling of hope here. This balances the tendency towards despair that can come from working for social justice without always seeing the results.
I have heard that social justice starts at home. Lisa and I experienced this recently when we learned about her cancer. This community has been so supportive of us. We received so many emails, cards, hugs and other signs of love as we go through this difficult time. The thought of the BVM community praying for us certainly helps our spirits.
Lisa and I have had this recurring conversation over the years about the lack of a sense of community here in Silicon Valley. Clearly we overlooked the BVMs and associates because the sense of community overflows here. I am so grateful for that.
New Associate Shirley Witlin
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Sunday, May 17th, 2009 is a day I'll remember for the rest of my life. On that day I was accepted as a BVM Associate by the Holy Family BVM's in Glendale, CA. My anticipation had been building during my lengthy formation and started to become a reality when I received my letter of acceptance from Elizabeth Avalos, BVM and my first congratulatory card from Mary Ann Zollmann,BVM, President of the Congregation. More cards began arriving from other Associates in the Midwest and from my beloved friend and old classmate, C. Jean Hayen, BVM and my brother, James Hoover.
My deepest gratitude goes to Mary Jean Ferry, BVM, who gently guided me through the formation process. She stood at my side during the prayer of commitment service which she planned, by the way, and invited Mary Therese Casey, Associate, to perform her beautiful musical pieces on the harp during and after the ceremony.
My heart and spirit lifted when I heard Elizabeth welcome me by calling my name. Twenty three BVM Sisters, Associates and Sue Jebb, friend and sister of Mary Jean, gathered in the chapel to support my request with their love and prayers.
I was given an opportunity to express my thoughts on becoming an Associate. As I rose, I felt the ceremony had become my own and I strongly wanted those present to understand what this calling meant to me. My Associate pin, given to me afterwards, will be a reminder to me of the union I share with this charitable community of holy women of God. Our companionship on the journey will be an anchor in the development of my spiritual life. In God's peace. Shirley Ann Witlin
New Associate Cheryl Hannah
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REFLECTION:
The BVMs hold a special place in my heart. They gave me a great start in life by providing an excellent education. They also solidified the morals, values, respect, and discipline my parents taught in our home. Becoming an Associate continues this special bond. I embrace this opportunity to strengthen my spiritual life, promote the BVM core values, and hopefully be an asset to the community.
Mary Chapman, Associate
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In March of 2009 made my Commitment as a BVM Associate at Mt Carmel during the Sunday Liturgy. My husband and I live in Dubuque, we have two daughters Jill and Abby and two grandchildren, Dalton and Alayna. I am the Administrative Assistant for Academic Affairs at Clarke College. I have known the BVMs for many years beginning with my elementary education at St. Anthony’s, Dubuque and I was again reunited with them in 1997 with the beginning of my employment in the Education Department at Clarke College
During my year of Discernment my Companion has been Joan Lingen, BVM and I have met many other BVMs and Associates in clusters, jubilee celebrations, social gatherings, and retreats.
As with Mary Frances Clarke’s journey it was through the loving support of companions of the Clarke community that I sensed a powerful awareness of God. I believe we become who we are called to be at the deepest core of our being and for me it was freedom to explore the mystery of faith. Through many opportunities and experiences at Clarke such as the Ecuador Service trip, I began to hear, see and feel the worlds interconnectedness as a sign of God’s call to holiness – do to the will of God.
My faith is a gift from God. Through the core value of freedom, I choose to know God – not just through knowledge and understanding, but to know Him in a personal way. To know god through His Word, I will come to knowledge of the righteousness of God and that which He asks of me in return.
In the Eucharistic mystery I find solidarity, hope, healing, love and wisdom. I believe it is God’s hope that I continue in prayer and option for the poor, by honoring the mission and charism of the core values in the BVM community – to be the change!
I am most thankful for my family, friends and the Clarke Community for supporting me along this journey – and for Sr. Joan and my husband Dan, for encouraging me to cross the bridge as a BVM Associate – although I know my spiritual journey is never ending! It is a sincere privilege to become a part of the BVM Community and to participate in the mission of Jesus.
February 2009 Service Trip to Florida -- Nancy McCarthy, BVM, Associate Coordinator
The Florida Service Trip for Associates and BVMs consisted of three BVMs, but our week in February with BVMs Ann DeNicolo and Colleen McGinnity was definitely a memorable experience.
For me, who had imagined Florida to be a state mostly populated with ‘retirees-who-could-afford-to-move-there,’ this service time brought new awareness that poor people can, unfortunately, be found anywhere, and are usually in need of help - especially the kinds of services offered by Catholic Charities, where Ann ministers.
The food pantry and clothing distribution section were similar to places I’ve volunteered in Chicago, but the Immigration services and after school tutoring for largely Spanish speaking students were new opportunities for learning.
We also saw many different ‘neighborhoods’ during our week, including migrant housing and areas still recovering from hurricanes. The dedicated staff and abundance of volunteers were remarkable.
Our daily sharing of BVM community with Ann and Colleen, and the opportunity to meet with Associate Karen Harris impressed me with the value of visiting a place where I would not ordinarily go.
We also had time to stop at a citrus grove and see how much work goes into bringing oranges, grapefruit and juice to our tables.
The beauty of the area and the climate made life seem very good. I can only hope that someone else will have this opportunity in the future.
Spring -- Joni Davis, BVM Associate
Spring in Coastal North Carolina comes before spring in Iowa. Spring with the flowering trees, bushes, vines and flowers speaks of the touch of the Master's hand. It is like driving or walking in Paradise. Flowers of every color, shape, and size can be seen everywhere. Flowers like snowflakes, no matter whether there is a dusting or two feet of snow, there are no two exactly alike.
Who but a wonderful God could love us so much as to create such beauty? Who could give people the knowledge and joy to plant the seeds and water them? Who gives us the patience and love to nourish and feed the plants? God, in creation, feeds us with a sense of thanksgiving and praise at the beauty of spring. God asks us to freely be co-creators of this planet and to educate ourselves in the care of the earth in all seasons. God reminds us of planting the seeds of faith. These seeds need to be fed and nourished, guided, and watered.
Reflection on the Gospel of John 14:15-21 -- Joann Beers, BVM Associate
We listen very carefully to a beloved person who is dying. Our attention is riveted on their last words to us.
In this gospel, Jesus speaks to his best friends and followers, as he prepares to leave them, and to leave his fledgling work in their hands. He speaks to us, also leaving his mission and his very meaning, in our hands.
Love and Spirit are the concepts he chooses for this final and forever message. Where love is, there we find God. God's Spirit (Jesus' Spirit) will be with us always. Where is there love in my life? That is where God is. Where is love lacking in our world? That is where we need to bring God's presence.
It is a message of intimacy. He promises to live in us. Just as Jesus and the Creator are one, so we also are one with them. The Spirit of Jesus, the Spirit of the Creator, lives in us and acts in us. We are God's mysteriously chosen way of being consciously present in our world
All the World's a Stage -- Patricia Principe
By God’s grace, I was destined to spend my adolescent years at St. Mary High School. It was my introduction to the BVM Community. And what an introduction! Sr. Mary Victory was my homeroom teacher. Her expectations challenged each one of us to realize all that God had gifted us to become. During my years at St. Mary’s and as a Theater Major at Mundelein College, the BVM Community provided a freedom for me to prioritize my gifts, my hopes and my dreams. So many loving BVM relationships blossomed during those unforgettable years. Upon graduation, it was sad to leave them behind. In 1990 I was summoned to the Motherhouse in Dubuque to visit my dear friend, my first music teacher Sr. Constance Meyer. She was seriously ill. I quickly rescheduled my responsibilities at home and set out on my journey to Iowa. The visit was the first of many. The Motherhouse experience felt like a “coming home” of sorts. I was warmly welcomed into the BVM family much like I was at the age of 13 at St. Mary’s. Sadly Sr. Constance died in 1991. But, she left me a legacy of BVM friendships that evolved into my becoming a BVM Associate. By supporting the BVM Community and participating in their mission of bringing the peace and justice of Jesus teachings in our weary world, we are all BVM Associates. However, the privilege of being officially accepted into the BVM Community as an Associate deepens the commitment to fulfill that mission in our lay lives with our families, friends, and in our community and work-place. I have never felt worthy of the title “Associate to the BVM Community”. Never-the-less, I am honored to be associated with such a caring, brilliant and loving group of women. From my perspective as an entertainer, I would have to say...if all the world’s a stage, the BVM Community is a great act to follow. -- Pat Principe
Bobbie and Eli Lopez Reflect on their Saturday Ministry
Living the BVM core values is joyful work! Today, we live out one of the BVM core value of Charity by accompanying Mother Teresa’s Missionary Brothers of Charity on Saturday mornings as they go out in the streets of downtown Los Angeles to feed the homeless, or as Mother Teresa puts it in the prayer we recite before embarking into the downtown streets and alleys of L.A., “…to spread the fragrance of Jesus...” After putting together some 1300 hundred sandwiches, packaging 700-800 bags with sweets, we gather in prayer and are dispersed to one of five areas in downtown L.A. to offer the prepared foods to the homeless. One homeless person recently exclaimed, “I was just wondering where my next meal would be coming from – and here you are – God is good!” Yes, they are physically hungry, but we have also learned through time that just as important to them is the caring presence, the listening ear, and the occasional hug from a God sent human being. We once heard Father Boyle, known for his work with the “homeboys” of East L.A., say that his boys do not need nor do they want charity, rather what they need and welcome is a sense of kinship. What we try to impart on the homeless of L.A.’s Pershing Square is that we are there because we care, because we love them, and because they are family. We try to remember to serve from Mother Teresa’s words, “Love with your heart and serve with your hands.”