Benedi BenedictineSistersocfPittsbturgh i nes ...€¦ · Rosalyn Soller, OSB SBA Then and Now. . ....

Summer 2009St. Benedict Monastery

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh

BenedictinesMonastic Women with Discerning Hearts

Stabilitybeing truly presentwhere we are.Brother David Steindl-Rast, OSB


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From the PrioressBy: Sister Benita DeMatteis, OSB

Benedictine spirituality is unique in the strong emphasis itplaces on love in community. It is the primary vow of stabilitythat defines the Benedictine community as a loving family. Herelove is not simply a spiritual abstract, but becomes concrete.The Sister vows to remain in a particular monastic communityof people for her entire life. The context of the monastery isfamily, and this is very deliberate; the Sister will have to dealwith ongoing, committed relationships. The “other” will bethere tomorrow and the day after that and the day after that.Relationships therefore have a singularly important role in theBenedictine way of life.

Healthy relationships with others are only possible within thecontext of one’s own spiritual health. One of the insights of therule is: unless we learn to live with ourselves we cannot live withothers. But equally, unless and until we have learned to live fullyand creatively with others we cannot hope to live with our ownselves. This is why St. Benedict places so much emphasis uponsilence and solitude—to ensure not only that the individualsister will progress in her relationship with God, but also thatthe religious community will be a healthy one. A parallel is seenclearly in the marriage state. When two who live in relationshipdo not give each other the solitude to grow as individuals, themarriage cannot remain healthy.

Religious community is only as strong as its members. Asclose as Sisters are to one another, there is a kind of respectfuldistance kept between them. The same distance is essential inall human relationships, for it enables people to relate out ofstrength and maturity, not out of weakness and neediness.

Stability lies in slowing down, being willing to wait, goingon with the sameness that is an inevitable part of being humanand refusing the quick-fix alternative. One of the desert fathers,when asked by a young monk for a word to help him on thespiritual path, replied, “Go to your cell (your room) and yourcell will teach you everything.” Be where you are. Refuse thefantasy world of “if only.” Remember that discipleship is aboutfaithful living, not visible success. Be prepared to wait, sometimesa long time, to hear the word of God speaking to you.

The spiritual value of stability lies in commitment. Likeeverything else in life, stability works best when it is whole-hearted, without escape hatches or preserves of autonomy.There are times when we stay in situations that are clearly notgood for us. It is destructive and not at all life giving. That’snot stability; that’s foolishness. Stability calls us to remain indifficult situations but not in destructive ones.

“Stability – being truly present where we are.”Bro. David Steindl-Rast, OSB

Benedictines take a vow of stability. They know that eventuallyanother monastery is going to look better. Another way of lifewill sound appealing. They will question themselves. They willquestion the people who make choices that affect their lives.They will someday wonder about every single choice they haveever made.

And when that happens, they will remember the promise ofstability made before God, their Sisters, their families, and theirfriends. Despite circumstances, they will stand still, and they willoutlast the doubts. They will outlast the darkness that corners allof us every now and then. You could call it “holy stubbornness.”As Girl Scouts, we were advised that if we became lost whilein the vast wilderness, we should stay where we are and stopwandering. Hunker down and wait to be found. Stability callsus to believe that if we stay where we are, God will find us.

As Christians who live in a global village where mobility is thenorm, where people frequently are uprooted geographically, andwhere faithfulness in relationships is threatened constantly, a lifeof inner stability becomes a priority. The stability that Benedict callsfor asks us to live in the “now”—to be present to this momentwhether pleasurable or painful. We are part of a culture whereescape from every kind of discomfort is to be found throughaccess to a pill, a therapy, or some mindless entertainment. So weare encouraged never to stay with the uncomfortable experiencelong enough to ask what it means and where we might find Godin it. Unless we develop an inner stability that keeps us centeredon the unchanging love of God, we will find ourselves out ofkilter, stumbling along and tempted to reach for the first painkillerthat helps us to forget. What is most stable in your life? Howhave you found stability? How does your faith act as an anchor?

Dealing with the present moment out of a place of innerstability is such hard work. But remember that you are neveralone. We are companions on this journey of “being truly presentwhere we are.”

“Stable and loving God, change and upheavalsometimes seem to be the rule. I know that I crave whatdoes not change. I crave love, friendship, dignity, andsecurity that lasts. If I am going to know this kind ofstability, though, it will have to begin with me. Anchorme deep. Hold me hard. Teach me to stay put, to becourageous, and to outlast any doubts that assault me.

Table of Contents

Turning Toward God . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

2009 Jubilarians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Seeking God Together

What Is It That You Truly . . . . . . . . . 8Want of Me?

Focus On: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Sisters Monica Silan andRosalyn Soller, OSB

SBA Then and Now . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Continuing to Serve Many

Mount and Missions. . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Archival Echoes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Stability Through the Years

Alumnae and Friends. . . . . . . . . . . 17Entertain at Abschied

Wheels for Ministry . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

“Sing the Resurrection Song”. . . 18

Sister Audrey Quinn: . . . . . . . . . . . 19Finalist “For All the WaysYou Care” Contest

Meet Alison Serey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20New Office of CommunityAdvancement Director

North Hills Art Show: . . . . . . . . . . . 21Featuring the Work ofSister Dolores Conley

Wish List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Spiritual Bouquets… . . . . . . . . . . . 22Heartfelt wishes forevery occasion

The Heritage Society . . . . . . . . . . . 23Are you a member orplanning to become one?

Monastic Women with Discerning Hearts

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Please remember the Benedictine Sisters in your will.

BENEDICTINES is a publication of theBenedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh, PAfor families, friends and benefactorsof the Community.

Editor: Sister Judith Ann Criner, OSB

Editorial Board:Sisters Susanne Chenot,Dolores Conley,Benita DeMatteis,Evelyn Dettling,Susan Merrie English,Michelle Farabaugh,Shelly Farabaugh,Barbara Helder,Kathleen Mack,Michael Mack,Elizabeth Matz,Judith Nero,Bridget Reilly,Mary Catherine Stana,Mary Damian Thaner,Jeanne Ubinger,Barbara Jayne Vopat

St. Benedict Monastery4530 Perrysville AvenuePittsburgh, PA 15229-2296

Phone: 412-931-2844Fax: 412-931-8970Website: www.osbpgh.orgEmail: [email protected]

We are theBenedictine Sistersof Pittsburgh,

continuing 1500 yearsof seeking God in

Community,Prayer

and Ministry.

Mark Your Calendar For:

August 16, 2009THANKSGIVING MASS FOR THEPARTNERS OF ST. BENEDICT

October 24, 200960TH JUBILEESister Elizabeth MatzSister Mary Edward Skovran

November 1, 2009PARTNERS OF ST. BENEDICTRECEPTION

November 14, 2009FALL SUPER BINGOBenedictine Center

April 10, 2010SPRING SUPER BINGOBenedictine Center

G dTurningToward

G dBenedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh

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be transformed into the persons God has created us to be.Let’s consider stability from the perspectives of

environment, attitude, and the reliability of God. Thiswhole idea is very counter cultural in our Americansociety, where change and travel are lauded. Rootlessnesscan be a virtue- “the rolling stone gathers no moss.”Americans have made a life work of seeking freedom fromall attachment without understanding the importanceof having freedom for attachment to the work of God.Often our quest for “freedom from” is couched in fearand control.

Is there something God-like in an environment ofstability? In the stable world, there can be a shift fromreaction to events and to others – to some dependabilityon others. I can begin to move my emphasis from meto us. In the early Christian community, they sharedeverything in common. They must have had lots of chaosunderstanding just what it was they were supposed todo but they felt called. We know that there were lotsof disagreements and things had to be worked out andnegotiated but they felt called. Benedict instructs us tolisten with the ear of our hearts. That can be a challenge ina group of people where all are seeking to listen for theirown and the group’s greater good. Stability is not aboutan environment that accentuates me; it is an environmentthat emphasizes us. We can all identify with a situationwhen living or working with others can be very difficult.Depending on the situation with work, neighbors, friends,

For me, the above quote from Scripture is refreshing.There is a season and a time for everything. Sometimes,I may worry that I am too late or too confused and I have“missed the boat.” There was another saying that used tochallenge me: “Bloom where you are planted.” I guess Ifigured, how can you do anything else? But as I get olderI know that I can get so involved in everything aroundme that I do not bloom or even recognize the season.And I do not turn, turn, and turn. As Benedictines ourmonastic profession includes the commitment to stability.What does that mean in our modern world?

Many people in our American culture would interpretstability as being stuck, intractable, and BORING.These people are using a very narrow focus. Stabilityis a religious and psychological dimension of monasticlife. Stability means working out our salvation in thecompany of people who are not only challenging andloving, but irritating and annoying. (It sounds a littlelike any significant relationship in life.) Psychologically,our connections with significant others help us to refineour personalities like gold is refined in the fire. If we areopen, the “dirt” of sin and selfishness can be burned awayand refined. We must let ourselves be acted upon, whilewe are acting upon others. It can be difficult to let goand allow ourselves to be changed, rather than changingothers. However, this change is all in the process of beingmore open to God in our lives and through other people.God, who is the delight of our Benedictine life, calls us to

{ }

Turning Toward

To everything Turn, Turn Turn;there is a season, Turn Turn Turn,

there is a time for every purpose under Heaven.

Ecclesiastes and the Byrds

By: Sister Shelly Farabaugh, OSB

by the members of this community in good times and inbad. Monastics must work to be able to receive as wellas give. St. Paul offered the Corinthians great consolationin his statement: “In my weakness is my strength.”

This “weakness leads to strength” paradox brings us tothe most important aspect of our monastic profession ofStability. By our commitment to these people over the longhaul, we are truly called to the unimaginable reliabilityon God and God’s love for us. How easy is it for mostof us to rely on others, especially in times of stress? Thefamiliar quip, “If I do it myself, I know that it (anything)will be done right” is not uncommon in regard to the helpof other people. How much more challenging it is to relyon God to aid us with problems and difficulties in ourlives? Think of the last time you had a significant challengeor loss: a loved one, financial distress, family problems.Were you able to pray, to turn the situation over to God?Usually that happens only after we have fretted andsweated a lot in seeking our own solution to the difficulty.

Depending on God begins with the belief that God’slove for us is unimaginable. We cannot even grasp howmuch God wants us to have a full life. Think about theGospel stories that are hard for us to understand, theworkers who all get paid the same for varying amountsof work. Even with the belief in God’s reliable love, weare challenged to act on it; to step back, to turn over theproblem, to let go. This letting go is similar to the childwho wants a parent to fix a toy while the child continuesto grasp the toy tightly in both hands. Our monasticstability calls us to grow daily in the firm belief that wecan depend on God as we continueto live our lives in this community.The road has many twists and turns,like all of life, and we can survivetogether. Letting go, surrenderingto God, living with hope are allsigns of our profession of monasticstability. Sharing the signs ofthat commitment with otherscan be a presence in thisworld of hope and joy thatis greatly needed. We can,not only survive – butthrive together.


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we can choose to stick it out or throw up our hands andquit. Can we allow ourselves to grow and be changed byothers to whom we have to surrender our wants andneeds? We do not live in an environment that encouragesstability. Many a couple has broken up when one partnersays, “I don’t want to be married anymore,” and leaves.Frequently that means that after a certain time in arelationship and the honeymoon has worn off, the personis realizing they may need to surrender some of theirindependence in order to achieve the interdependence ofintimacy and a loving relationship. An environment ofstability may call us to give more of our time, energy andemotional support to another or others than we would like.

What does it mean to consider the attitude of stability?Stability can give us time to breathe and to consider theneeds of others. It costs a lot. But is it worth it? To havethe experience of real love and unity- like in a family, amarriage, a deep friendship- is one of life’s greatest gifts.It requires an openness that often thinks of others andtheir needs and sorrows before our own. An attitude ofstability may require me to spend less time in front ofthe computer and television and more time face to facewith the important people in my life. In relationships, wehave the opportunity to grow and develop as individualsand as a society. We must be willing to pay the cost of acreative and dynamic relationship. Monastic commitment(or marriage or parenting) is not just about a change oflife situation, living alone to living with others. It is trulyabout a change of heart.

For most people, it is much harder to receive than itis to give, and yet a real relationship must include bothgiving and receiving. The marriage ceremony talks ofenduring riches and poverty, sickness and health, joy andsorrow. These are all situations in which a person mustreceive as well as give to another. These are all timeswhen a person’s attitude of stability may be severelytested, monastic or not. These times of loss can includeoverwhelming emotion and change that we were notprepared to accept or understand. Death, job loss, severefinancial distress can put us in a tailspin of instabilityand confusion. If we are unwilling to receive from thesignificant people in our lives, no amount of inanimatepossessions or fame can comfort us. In our monasticstability, we have committed to support and be supported

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.Helen Keller

2009 Jubilarians

SeekingGod Together


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By: Sister Barbara Helder, OSB

Each year the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh havethe privilege of celebrating women who give grace-filledexample of years of faithful commitment to vows theymade 25, 50, 60, 70, 75 years earlier in their religiouslife. These women have remained steadfast throughstruggles of change in religious life and communitythroughout the years. To them we owe a debt of gratitudefor their fidelity and service. This year we have the joyof celebrating five Jubilarians. Here are their stories.

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Early in her elementary grade school years at St. Peter’sSchool in Canton, OH, SISTER ELIZABETH (Lina) MATZthought that she would be a religious sister. At the time shedidn’t know why she thought this, but influenced by theSisters she had in school, the seed was planted. Wantingto work with children, she came to the Benedictines inPittsburgh because the Benedictines had a good reputationas educators. From 1949 until 1986, she establishedherself among them as an excellent educator serving as

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Benedictine Stability: growing roots of commitment to one group of peoplewho seek God together… staying the course through the cycles oftime and seasons, allowing God’s spirit to deepen grace withinby daily faithfulness to sharing prayerful life in community…

Sr. Elizabeth (Lina)MatzJubilee of 60 years

Sr.Mary Edward SkovranJubilee of 60 years

Sr.Georgine SchweersJubilee of 50 years

Sr. Janet BarnicleJubilee of 50 years

Sr.Nancy (Norberta)BoothJubilee of 50 years

Teacher, Principal, Supervisor, Educational Consultant andDirector of Elementary Curriculum. By nature a quietperson, deep thinker and good listener, she drew uponher reflective nature, her commitment to excellence, herartful creativity, her supportive and affirming dispositionto mentor others to be strong, committed educators.

In 1986, Sister Elizabeth left full-time education workto serve as Sub-Prioress for the Benedictine Sisters for 8years and as the Benedictine Treasurer for 13 years. Shecurrently ministers as Director of Human Resources andMedical Insurance needs for the community.

Deeply committed to justice, peace and her Benedictinecommunity, she has this to say about her religious life:“It is of utmost importance to me to Seek God. As aBenedictine woman, it is important to me to live and besupportive of Community, faithful to the prayer of theChurch, the Divine Office and to minister and care forall of God’s creation.”

She will celebrate her Jubilee of 60 years in October.

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Celebrating with Sister Elizabeth is SISTER MARYEDWARD SKOVRAN, who rejoices each day that God ispresent in her life. Influenced by the Benedictines whotaught her in elementary and secondary schools and by hermother who was strong in accepting hardships and alwaysready to accept God’s will, Sister Mary Edward came tothe Benedictines with a cheerful spirit, a kind heart and aready attitude to adapt to the needs of the times. She hasused these gifts well in ministering through her years inreligious life as Teacher, Principal, Business Office Personnel,Adult Day Care Assistant and Nutrition Program Director.

Currently retired, Sister Mary Edward finds satisfactionin being helpful at the Monastery. She is happy livingBenedictine life, faithful to Benedictine prayer, attendingcommunity events, keeping busy with crafts, scrabble,jigsaw puzzles and reading.

As she prepares to celebrate her Jubilee of 60 years,she offers these words to anyone interested in religiouslife: “Be open to the Spirit … follow the promptings ofyour heart … above all, be willing to go the ‘extra mile’without counting the cost.”

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Influenced by Sisters in grade school and high school,SISTER GEORGINE SCHWEERS entered the BenedictineCommunity in 1957 from Saint Teresa of Avila Parish inPerrysville. In July, she will be celebrating her Jubilee of50 years.

Presently Financial Director at Benedictine Center, Inc.,Sister Georgine has ministered during her 50 years inreligious life as Teacher, Principal, Business Office worker,Parish Office Worker, and Director of the Adult DayCare at Benedictine Center. Her attention to details andpersevering nature has helped her to serve well in theseministries.

An avid sports fan, she enjoys attending Pirates gameswhen she can. She also relaxes with crocheting, needlepoint,sewing, crossword puzzles and jigsaw puzzles.

When asked how she sees herself living out theBenedictine charism, she replied: “St. Benedict admonishesus to pray and work. In my work at the Center, eachday I encounter many senior citizens who are in need ofa cheerful word or a listening ear. In our daily Liturgyof the Hours and celebration of Eucharist, I pray forthe universal Church and our Mother Earth.”

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When SISTER JANET BARNICLE was in grade schoolin Carrolltown, PA, she used to spend time with theSisters after school hours. She attributes their attentionduring these times as nurturing “the tender sprout of thecall to become a Sister.” “The Sisters gave me their time,which made me feel important; it was precisely thisinterest, so freely shown, upon which I wanted to modelmy future – the desire to ‘waste’ my time in order to makeothers realize their importance.”

In 50 years of ministering – as Teacher, Principal,Campus Minister, Religious Education Coordinator,High Rise Manager and Parish Social Minister – SisterJanet has done just that. To whatever ministry she is in,she brings compassion, a listening ear and a friendlyspirit. She tries, as advised in the Rule of Benedict, to“receive all guests as Christ.”

In Benedictine religious life, she found her callaffirmed. “I always experienced a sense of pride, beingbonded to so many large-hearted and free spiritedwomen who were spending their lives accomplishingtasks for the Church and for society … I love my lifeas a vowed woman.”

Sister Janet will be celebrating her Jubilee of 50 years.

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SISTER NANCY (Norberta) BOOTH remembersreally missing her family and feeling homesick beforeher first Christmas as a Postulant. Then she heard theSisters singing in the hallway before Midnight Mass whichmade her “feel so close to God.” This was the turningpoint in her decision to stay in religious life. This summershe will celebrate 50 years as a Benedictine Sister.

Prayer is important to her: “I do my best to be presentat all the hours of our Divine Office and Eucharistevery day. This is what has given meaning to my life for50 years.”

Artistic, helpful and caring, Sister Nancy has ministeredin housekeeping, kitchen work and child care. She iscurrently one of the weekly Portresses (receptionists)and helps to decorate the dining room for special feasts.

She says of her years in Community: “Community isthe hallmark of the Benedictine Monastic life. Livingwith my Sisters has been the most satisfying thing aboutmy 50 years in Community. As I have grown older,I have come to continue to love my Sisters … to helpcare for them is very rewarding.”


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The Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh are veryfortunate this year to witness the commitmentof two women to the Benedictine way of life.Sister Linda Larkman made her first professionin May, 2009. Sister Amy Westbrook becamea novice on June 28, 2009.

Both women came from varied backgrounds. Lindalived in another religious community for several yearsand worked in a number of nonprofit and corporate jobsthat utilized her business background. Amy, a mother offive children, has worked in early childhood educationand raised a family as a single parent. Both women cameto the Benedictine Sisters looking for a way of life thatwould call them to use their gifts and talents in waysthat would not only enrich others, but enable each ofthem to be the best monastic they could possibly aspireto become. Their belief is that their decisions of monasticcommitment will provide them the vehicle on the journeyto “be truly present where they are.” (Editor’s note)

From the pen of Sister Linda Larkman, OSB,First Professed:

At a young age, I often found myself asking God tohelp me understand what I was to be and do in my life.Even at times of almost marrying, I asked, “Is this whatyou want of me?” Twice I heard the answer, “there issomething more”. Even as my immediate family memberswere taken to God relatively early in my life and theirs, Iwondered, “Why am I the one left and what am I here todo?” I have seen the path of my life take many differenttwists and turns, highs and lows, exciting adventures,varied and similar types of corporate and non-profitcareers, volunteer experiences and church ministry. I havemet many persons, had and still have many wonderfuland loving friends and relationships of both men andwomen who are married, single, religious and priests.My life’s journey has taken me to many cities within theUnited States, parts of Mexico and even to Europe.

At the age of 45, as I continued my life’s journey,I often heard myself saying the words of the song madeso popular by Peggy Lee, “Is That All There Is?” I still

found myself asking God, “What is it that you trulywant of me?” I discovered part of the answer when Iexperienced some peace and stability in my life afterentering a religious community in Cleveland, OH, inthe year 2000. However, as circumstances and lifeplayed out within this community, I found my journeyredirected yet another time.

Nine years later, on Saturday, May 16, 2009, atmy first profession to monastic life at the BenedictineMonastery of St. Benedict’s in Pittsburgh, PA, I come tounderstand that “there is a place” where God truly hasmeant for me to be. I came to understand that this placehas been made ready within me through the variouspaths of my life. Through my profession, which includeda vow of stability, I have come to more fully understandthis place where I am now. I have come to understandand see the vow of stability to be an integral growingpart of my new Benedictine way of life. Stability hasbecome a major touchstone for me. One comes from aplace deep inside of me. It is not in a building, house ormonastery. Stability is not in a job, or in what I possess.I cannot earn or buy Stability. It has become a placewhere God has sent me to find her/him more deeplywithin myself, within others, within my happiness or mysadness. Both are equally authentic and real in life. Thisis a place that allows me to surrender my will to God’s

What Is It That You Truly Want of Me?By: Sister Linda Larkman, OSB and Sister Amy Westbrook, OSB

Sister Linda Larkman talks with Sisters Rosalyn Soller, Julia Makowskiand Susan Merrie English prior to her First Vow Ceremony.

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will, and also a place that leads me to find new freedomand to create and be more than I ever thought possible.

Christ has shown me this place to be the still pointwithin myself. It is a place that can allow me peacefrom within and then a peace to offer to the world,no matter what the situation might be.

As I journey with God, my monastic professionon May 16th, was the fulfillment of what I believeSt. Benedict wrote about in the Prologue of his Rule,“See how the Lord in his love shows us the way of life.”On this day, I was able to outwardly commit myself toGod, to my community, to myself, and to whatever paththe Lord was creating anew for me. As a result, I havecome to see my journey as one that is meant to be open,walking side by side with God. A journey in which I ammore able to step forth and be a part of life, to love withGod, and to offer myself in a true way to live out God’swill. This Benedictine way of life has offered to me aplace where I can remain to experience life in its fullest.

I believe May 16th, surrounded by my BenedictineSisters, my only living uncle, a group of dear friends, andGod so present in all, was the happiest and most joyfulday I have ever experienced in my life. By my temporaryprofession of the monastic vows of stability, fidelity to themonastic way of life and obedience according to the Ruleof our Holy Father Benedict, God in love and faithfulnessallowed me to make my truest response to the question,“what is it that you truly want of me?” If I listen andremain faithful to these vows each day, God will unfoldmy journey. I thank God, my sisters, my family and myfriends for their prayers, love and continued support aswe all journey and listen with the ear of our heart!

In the words of Sister Amy Westbrook, OSB – Novice:I have been here with the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh

little more than nine months. I came to seek God. I cameto find a place to become the peace of Christ. I camedesiring to be discipled and reconnected with the truesource of all Being. What I have discovered in these earlymonths of formation are new aspects of myself that Ihave only experienced as deep stirrings in my heart beforeI arrived. As is true of all force fields, I cannot be foundexcept within the manifestation of my being. I find thatI am different here, not in the sense of better or higher,but in the sense of increased clarity and acuity of focus.The Rule of St. Benedict offers a discipline that stillsthe turbulence of chaotic thinking and a practice thatslows the pace of frantic action. Here in this communityit becomes natural to respond to the world’s needscompassionately, silently, and deliberately in love, trustingthat the nucleus of any situation brings with it theopportunity for oneness of mind and heart.

I sense a mindfulness here that engages the energy ofthe present moment with the potential for God-awareness.In a modern worldview, that would have us believe thatwealth, elitism and perfection are permanent qualitiesthat can be earned, purchased or marketed, the Sistersunderstand that everything is impermanent and is simplypassing. It becomes possible to appreciate any situation andcondition when it is seen as an invitation to intentionallypartner with the love of God. Nothing is accidental andnothing is unfortunate, but all is seen and accepted aspure grace. By acknowledging the interdependent natureof life’s unfolding, the Sisters have cultivated an attitudeof reverence for the sacred relationships that connect

Sister Rosalyn Soller gives Sister Amy(center) her personal copy of the Rule ofSt. Benedict during her Rite of Entranceinto the Novitiate.

Sister Amy Westbrook (fifth from left) poses as theMother of the Bride at the recent wedding of herdaughter. She is pictured with her children, theirspouses and her grandchildren.

Sister Linda Larkman (center) signs hervow formula. Sister Rosalyn Soller (left)and Sister Benita DeMatteis, Prioress,(right) witness her signature.

Continued on page 11

Sister Monica Silan, OSB

Virginia Silan was bornin a little four-room housein McKeesport, PA.

She was the fourth child of Joseph and Mary NedlockSilan. Her early years were spent dealing with a hipproblem that required many doctor and hospital bills.After high school she went to work at the Daily Newsin McKeesport for 3-1/2 years. During that time, herheart was yearning for a deeper spiritual life. She foundinspiration in reading a pamphlet entitled “To SeekGod” – a Benedictine publication, and it gave an excellentexplanation of their motto – “Ora et Labora.” Consideringit an answer to prayer, Virginia eventually found her wayto the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh.

And she stayed – professing her first vows in 1948!From 1948 to 1970, Sr. Monica taught primary gradesin various Pittsburgh parishes, and then switched topart-time teaching (typing and office machines) and officework at St. Benedict Academy for 15 years. After theAcademy closed, Sr. Monica began her third career asthe Secretary at Benedictine Center. After 23 years, she“retired” to the Monastery. She currently works as thePortress (answering the telephone and front door) for afew hours during the day. And if you have been doingthe math, yes, Sr. Monica celebrated her 60th Jubileein 2008!

On the topic of stability, Sr. Monica writes that hermother served as an outstanding example.” It was herMother who kept the family united after the death of theoldest daughter and the tragic death of her husband inhis 30’s. She could not go out to work because of theyoung children, so she rented rooms to boarders andrented part of the property for income. And yes, she

Sister Rosalyn Soller, OSB

One question that wasasked of Sister Rosalynwas how she became awareof the Benedictine Sisters.

If her family stories are true, (and they change everytime the seven siblings get together) she was attracted tothe Benedictine Sisters before she knew what that meant.According to her family, Rosalyn came home from schoolat the age of five and declared that her life decision wasmade. She stated, “I want to be a Sister like Sister Isabel”,her first grade teacher.

A community saying used to be that daily life lived wellwas martyrdom, but Sr. Rosalyn thought that was the easyway out. After fifty years, she states that she sees the light.Sister says that “I woke up to the fact that we and everygood Christian ‘give all when we remain faithful each day’.”Benedictines even made this kind of faithfulness a vow. Theycall it stability. After many years, Sister says that, “I havecome to realize that it is our Vow of Stability that enablesus to be faithful as God is faithful, a 24/7 commitment!”

What are her hopes for the future of the Community?Sister Rosalyn’s first hope is that other women drawn by

the lives of other “Sister Isabels” may join the Benedictinesof Pittsburgh in a life of prayer and ministry for the Kingdom.Her second hope flows from her own discovery at a veryearly age of the beautiful Liturgical Life of Prayer in thisparticular Community. “My hope is that the prayer life of


Focus On: Sisters Monica Silan and Rosalyn Soller, OSB

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By: Sister Michael Mack, OSB and Sister Susanne Chenot, OSB

was able to pay all the medical bills. Because of hergreat love, admiration and respect for her Mother,Sr. Monica willingly returned home to care for her inher final years.

“Knowing God has been present in the ups anddowns of earlier times and knowing He will be withme in the future sustains my confidence. It enablesme to have peace of heart and mind and to practicebeing present to where I am,” states Sr. Monica.

Of equal importance is the example of the membersof the Community. Coming from varied backgrounds,all are united in seeking God and searching for adeeper life with God.

Sr. Monica sees a great future for the Community.She is confident that God will continue to guide theCommunity. By adapting to the changing times andusing their talents wisely, the Kingdom of God willbe proclaimed by the Sisters through their BenedictineMonastic way of life.

the community may continue to be our special powerin the world and inspire us as we continue to accept thechallenges of the future.”

St. Benedict, with great insight, made leadershipin community a spiritual position. The leader of thecommunity “takes the place of Christ”. Sister prays thatthe Community will continue to have insightful andvisionary leaders to chart the course to be good stewardsof the earth. She hopes that this vision includes a strongpreference for the “greening of the earth”. St. Benedictprods us to hold the earth “as sacred as the vessels of thealtar”. Certainly, the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh havea personal Benedictine challenge in this green movement.

In these days of more questions than answers onething is certain: FAITHFULNESS IS ONLY FOUNDIN SAYING YES.


11

their lives into a community that exists for the solepurpose of merging with the Will of God. There is apart of everyone that is included in this universalperspective; however, it requires gently sidelining thedistractions and reordering our minds to participatefully in the consciousness of Christ. This is the directionwhere I believe my life is being called.

As a Postulant, I have been afforded time to watch,listen and discern the inner voice within my heart thatasks me to trust this process of religious formation.Being a woman experiencing 50 very full, vibrant yearsof life, I notice that I have grown to rely on a falsesense of personal confidence in assessing my own destiny.I am realizing that my life is not my own, but gifted tome as a means by which I can choose to follow Christ.The choices we find ourselves making deliver more thanconsequences, they reveal the spiritual condition ofthe heart. The real freedom of any life choice lies in itspotential to serve and heal the greater whole. I haveknown for many years now that the deeper purposeof my life is not what I can do, but what God cando through me. Surrender is not a popular concept;however, it is unique in its inability to be staged. Wecannot answer until we allow ourselves to hear thecall. God always brings us along the easiest way wewill come. The Spirit speaks to our heart in ways thatcause us to consider universal designs rather thanpersonal gain. Surrender has less to do with giving upor giving in. Its motivation lies in embracing the powerwhich has overtaken you. In hearing God’s voice, I findmyself at a crossroads where this surrender not onlyseems appropriate, it feels necessary.

I feel very grateful having been led by an all knowingand all loving God to this monastery where surrenderis undertaken everyday and supported by prayer andcommunity. This centuries old Benedictine monasticway of life has been for humanity a dynamic for changethat has given place to an intentional way of beingpresent to God and one another. The most urgent actionwe can take in the face of world suffering is to be thechange we want to see. Instead of endless re-acting,the Sisters merge with a situation; becoming silentlyone with it… the solution emerges from this focus ofalert awareness, from the still point within the situationitself. St. Benedict understood this commitment toconsciousness. He called it stability. As a Novice, it ishere that I hope to learn this sacredness of place, thispriority of being available to others, this attitude thatGod is still in control of the universe, and we can bestassist one another by simply remembering that… andremembering it well. Everyday.

Continued from page 9

Over fifty years ago, when the St. Benedict

Academy Class of 1959 arrived, the grey stone

school building looked just about the same as it

does now. The inside however is a different story!

“Time’s abiding finger…” When the Class of ’59first learned the words to the Alma Mater, the lowestlevel of the building was an empty cellar—no HomeEconomics lab, no Glee Room(Room 13), no LanguageLab/Computer Lab, no Student Council room, noGuidance Suite.

The school orchestra (violins and all) assembled inwhat is now the Benedictine Senior Center exercise room.Later in this space, the school band made its home inwhat is now the Center storage room. This space wasalso Sr. Evelyn Dettling’s (’54) classroom for a time. Sisteris the director of the Center which occupies the entireground level of the building. Room 13 is the Centeractivity room. The Home Ec is the Nutrition Centeroverseen by Sr. Norma Wiegand (’54). The Nurse’s Office/SBA Faculty lounge is the Center Director’s Office. Theformer Guidance Suite is where the business of the Centeris conducted. Sisters Corinne Moeller (’54), Mary AgnesGmuer (’56), and Georgine Schweers (’57) are assistedby Sisters Valeria Osterrieder (’35), and Mary Kay Easly.

The book store and the Student Council room are officesfor private counseling for the Center members. Forinformation, call 412-931-6051.

“Time’s abiding finger writes…” When the Class of‘59 arrived, their home rooms were located on what wasknown as the cafeteria floor. Room 1 was the TypingRoom. The school band moved in and out of this space,only to be replaced by the Prayer Room and classroom.Easter Seals Society Adult Day Care provides activitiesand services for frail elders, currently in this space.Sr. Linda Larkman is the site Supervisor and ActivityCoordinator of this program. For information, call412-931-6260.

The class rooms on this floor house an adult trainingfacility for special needs adults from age twenty-oneand beyond. This program, a part of Mercy BehavioralHealth, provides services to persons who are mentallychallenged and specializes in caring for individuals whoare blind and/or deaf with multiple medical problems.This facility is ably administered by Georgiann SprysLucas (’69). An enrollment of thirty-five programparticipants per day is competently and compassionatelycared for by a staff of 18 professionals. Sisters AliceRock (’52) and Joann Hothersall serve in this area. CarolZibrat Brueckner (’62) is also a member of the staff.For information, call 421-931-2272.

SBA Then and NowContinuing to Serve ManySister Mary Catherine Stana, OSB and Sister Dolores Conley, OSB

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The Graduates of the Class of 1969 areonstage at St. Benedict Academy fortheir commencement ceremony.

SBA students gather in front of thesign which stood at the bottom ofthe long driveway that led to thehigh school entrance.

The St. Benedict Academy Class of1936 stands in front of the Grottoof Our Lady on the Monastery campus.


The cafeteria, with a new sound system, air conditioningand new furnishings, is now a rental facility for partiesand meetings. Contact the Building Manager, SisterChristine Makowski at 412-931-6050 for information.

The Lutheran Service Society uses the kitchen to provideHome Delivered Meals for folks in the Perry-Reserve area.The manager of this service is Kathy Wenzig. If you knowof someone who needs this service or if you would liketo be a volunteer driver, call 412-931-2010.

“Time’s abiding finger writes memories that linger…”There is another room on this floor that is filled withchildren’s things. This room and the two floors above arehome to Benedictine Place. A local agency, HEARTH,whose mission is to assist families in finding permanentaffordable housing, administers this program. A transitionalprogram, Benedictine Place has transformed the Chemistryand Biology labs, library, art room, business rooms andSBA offices into fifteen comfortable two and threebedroom apartments. Offices and the night residentmanager’s residence complete Benedictine Place. JudyEakin is the Executive Director-412-939-2302-whileSr. Michelle Farabaugh (’53) is the night manager.

“Time’s abiding finger writes memories that linger,memories sweet…” When the Class of ’59 arrived, thestudent body filled the entire auditorium/gym. Folding

chairs lined the aisles to accommodate everyone. Hometo the Lassies (name of the basketball team) and dramaclub, this space is now the Catherine Thomas Theaterin honor of our kind friend and generous donor. TheTheater has seen major renovations including renewedseating, lighting, sound and air conditioning. The theaterprovides a lovely performance venue for area schoolsand community agencies. It is the stage home to ACT ITheater School. The efforts of this group have helpedtransform the auditorium/gym into a first rate facilityfor live theater. Sr. Dolores Conley (’61) is the theatermanager and can be reached at 412-931-2367. SBAtradition holds that this space is home to a young femaleghost. If she still haunts the Theater, she should be veryhappy in her new environs!

“Time’s abiding finger writes…” When the Class of1985 arrived, none of us knew that these young ladieswould be the final graduating class. Closing our schoolwas a painful decision for the Benedictine Sisters andour students. Though the name is now St. BenedictHall, “our hearts will e’re be true, dear SBA to you”.The folks who come to our hilltop now, come for manydifferent reasons. One thing remains the same, ourbuilding continues to serve.

That in all things, God may be glorified.

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SBA Class of 1969is planning a

40th Anniversary Reunion.

Anyone interested in preparing for the celebration is tocontact Mimi Lyons Riggle at [email protected]

This is a view of the main entrance to the former St. BenedictAcademy building. The structure was re-named St. Benedict Hall.It is home to a theater, Benedictine Place (transitional housing forhomeless women with children), Mercy Behavioral Health (programfor mentally challenged adults), Easter Seals Adult Day Care,Perry Reserve Meals on Wheels and the Benedictine Center(a full service Senior Citizen program).



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Benedictine stability is an attitude of mind and a styleof life. It requires dedication, thought and concentrationand is not done alone but with the support of a community.Individuals who persist in one place with one group mustrely on Divine Grace. The Sisters from the Mount havelived this attitude of stability even as their ministries tookthem in diverse directions. Their dedication, thoughtfulservice, and concentration on the virtues of life have oftenbrought them surprising opportunities and successes inhelping others, as can be seen in the many examples ofthis Mount and Mission article.

Sr. Anne Lazar is transferring her ministry this summer fromSt. John the Baptist in Scottdale, where she served in parishministry for 18 years, to Leo Meyer Manor in McKees Rocks.In June, she will leave on a month long Monastic RenewalProgram in Rome.

Sister Audrey Quinn was a finalist in the CVS Pharmacy,"For All the Ways you Care" contest. She was one of tenfinalists selected from over 4,000 entries. More details,including a video, blog and pictures can be found athttp://www.angelfire.com/on/osb.

The Benedictine Community enjoyed a favored treat inFebruary when Cindy DeAlmeida, featured soloist of thePittsburgh Symphony, performed Haydn’s Oboe Concerto forthe Sisters as a practice session for her featured performancewith the Symphony.

The Benedictines for Peace prepared the New Year’s PeaceVigil featuring Muslim and Jewish speakers who explained howpeoples of their faith perceive and pray for peace. Committeemembers were Sr. Susanne Chenot, Chairperson, and Srs.Evelyn Dettling, Barbara Jayne Vopat, Joann Hothersall,Elizabeth Matz, Susan Merrie English, Mary CatherineStana, and Linda Larkman.

Sr. Benita DeMatteis, Prioress, has been traveling. Sheattended the Conference of Benedictine Prioresses in Cullman,Alabama in January. Later in the spring, she and Sr. KarenBrink attended a meeting in Ridgely, MD, of the east coastBenedictines to discuss future possibilities for collaboration. InApril, she traveled with Sr. Rosalyn Soller to Maryland for ameeting of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious.Also in April, Sr. Benita attended a workshop of the NationalReligious Retirement Organization near Chicago, IL, along withSr. Judith Ann Criner and Sr. Michael Mack.

Sr. Beth Carrender is an Administrative Team membersupervising the many maintenance needs of the Monasterythat keep the Sisters and guests warm and comfortable.Sr. Beth recently assisted the Prioress with the face lift for themonastery dining room which resulted in a more serviceableand lovely dining area.

Sr. Bridget Reilly, Director of Guidance at Quigley CatholicHigh School, attended a program in May on Helping Teens andFamilies Manage Self-Injurious Behaviors, sponsored by theSTAR Center Institute of Pittsburgh at the William Pitt StudentUnion of the University of Pittsburgh.

Sr. Bridget Reilly and Sr. Corinne Moeller walked in“Race for the Cure” in support of all breast cancer victims onSunday, May 10th. As survivors themselves, they have beenfaithful supporters of the Susan B. Komen event for many years.

Sr. Dolores Conley, who ministers as an art teacher atMt. Alvernia High School for girls, held an exhibit of her artwork at the North Hills Art Center. Opening night was on April20th with food catered by Sr. Christine Makowski and herassistant, Sr. Linda Larkman. Sr. Dolores explained the creationand meaning of the main exhibit, an interpretation of theStations of the Cross that focused on hands. Another specialfeature was her quilt created from handmade paper entitledThe Journey. Other works on display were her watercolors,framed handmade paper art, collograph prints, glass plateprints, etchings, and bronze and aluminum cast sculptures.Several of Sister’s works were purchased by appreciative visitorsto the show.

Sr. Evelyn Dettling, Director of the Benedictine Senior Centerand Formation Co-Director, was locked up in June for MuscularDystrophy. Her bail was set at $1600.00. Fortunately she earnedenough to be set free.

By: Sister Susan Merrie English, OSB

Following Their Call


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Sr. Gemma Liberati and Sr. Shelly Farabaugh, Co-Chairs ofthe Benedictine Spirituality Committee, organized an EnrichmentDay for women and men in March. The main speaker wasMary Ann Getty who presented on St. Paul: When thePersonal Becomes Gospel. They were assisted by committeemembers Srs. Mary Christine Carlin, Barbara Jayne Vopat,Bridget Reilly and Kathleen Mack.

Sr. Irene Moeller, Social Minister/Pastoral Associate forSt. Teresa of Avila Parish, attended the Investiture Mass andluncheon celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the DiocesanLadies of Charity on March 21st at St. Paul's Cathedral. Sheis the parish moderator for this group. Sr. Irene also serves assecretary of the parish Vocation Committee. On May 7th, sheattended the Diocesan Holy Hour for Vocations at St. Paul'sSeminary. As a member of the parish Pro-Life Committee sheparticipated in the 40 Days of Prayer for Life on March 28th atPlanned Parenthood in Pittsburgh.

Sr. Judith Nero made a change in ministry this spring whenher position as Administrative Assistant with Bethlehem Havenwas eliminated due to the national financial crisis. Using herexcellent job search skills she soon found a new ministry asthe Residential Manager with Christian Housing for Leo MeyerManor in McKees Rocks.

Sr. Judith Ann Criner was invited by the Benedictine SeniorCenter to give a presentation on the topic “You Don’t NeedAnother Stroke Or Another Heart Attack.” She was asked togive another presentation in June on the topic of osteoporosis– “Helping Your Bones to Remain Healthy – And What To DoIf They Aren’t.” Sister Judith Ann also attended a week longworkshop given by the Catholic Library Association on thetopic: Preservation of Catholic Artifacts – Introductory ArchivesWorkshop for Religious.

Sr. Karen Brink is busy as always. She presented at theRCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) retreat in PleasantHills on Holy Saturday to the combined groups of St. Bernard,Mt. Lebanon and St. Elizabeth of Hungary parishes. Thirtypeople attended. She continues to be a presenter for ProtectingGod’s Children workshops for adults serving the churchthroughout the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Sr. Karen is also on theMiddle States school evaluation team and did a mid-term visitto St. Boniface School in Kersey, PA, in the spring. In July,Sr. Karen, along with three other administrators from theDiocese of Pittsburgh, will be attending the Partners in Missionworkshop in Boston, MA, This workshop is for the advancementand leadership of Catholic education.

Sr. Linda Larkman, who made her First Profession in May,became the Site Supervisor/Activities Coordinator for the EasterSeals Adult Day Services program on May 1, 2009. The EasterSeals program is located in the Benedictine Center and offers

day programs for older adults and adults with disabilities.Easter Seals day services are a quality, low cost living choicewhich prevents or delays nursing home placement. Persons cancall 412-931-6260 for more information or to schedule a visit.

Sr. Michelle Farabaugh is a Care Manager at the UPMCHealth Plan. Her primary responsibility is to follow members whohave had an inpatient mental health or chemical dependenceadmission and make sure they get into an appropriate outpatientprogram. Sister also works with members who call into theHealth Plan asking for referrals for treatment or who are in crisisand need someone to assist them with mental health needs. Shebegan this ministry August 4, 2008. Sr. Michelle holds a secondjob as Resident Manager for the transitional housing programat Benedictine Place where she handles any emergencies thatmight arise for the women and their families during the night.

Sr. Raphael Frank will be attending the Biennial Conferenceof the North American Association of Oblate Directors in July atSt. Vincent Archabbey, Latrobe, PA. It has been 60 years sincetheir first national conference. Each monastery may have twoOblates in attendance. Virginia Cook and Patricia Milburnwill represent the Oblate group from St. Benedict’s. The themeof the conference is "60 Years and Growing: Formation for aBenedictine Way of Life."

Sr. Rosalyn Soller, Formation Co-director, and formationmembers, Srs. Joanne Hothersall, Barbara Jayne Vopat,Linda Larkman and Amy Westbrook attended the TotalFormation Program at Villa Maria, PA, in March. An excellentpresentation was given by Father Eugene Lauer on TheSpirituality of the Sacraments.

Sr. Shelly Farabaugh made a presentation on depression fora local parish wellness group in May. Sister‘s full time ministryis with UPMC Behavioral Health Services as a Clinical Manager.

Sr. Susan Merrie English, a Leadership and Life Coach forEducators, made two coaching presentations this spring.One at the Beaver Women’s Conference in April entitled“Stop the War in Your Head! Find Fulfillment, Joy and GreaterAccomplishment with Positive Self Talk” and one in May forthe Pittsburgh Coaches Association with Dr. Janice Sabatineentitled “Do I Make Myself Clear? Setting Effective Expectations.”

Sr. Susan Fazzini, who ministers as a Drug and AlcoholTreatment Specialist at SCI (State Correctional Institution)Greene in Waynesburg, PA, and Sr. Audrey Quinn, whorecently accepted the position as Director of the SalvationArmy Service Center for Greene County, hosted Father Harveyfor a day of recollection for some of his former parishionersat the Benedictine Greene County Mission. The participantsenjoyed a peace-filled day of prayer and solitude.


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Members of our Monastic Community make theVow of Stability when they profess their vows. This isnot a common vow among religious congregations. Butit has a special charism for monastics. Brother DavidSteindel-Rast, OSB, defines this vow in six simplewords – “Being truly present where you are.”

Monastic life is growth in the spiritual as well as theprofessional and being daily aware of what we are doingthrough the years. We often get lost in the trivialities ofthe day and let our minds become distracted with whatwe are doing. Our sense of stability helps us to keep ourminds and hearts focused on WHERE we are and onWHAT we are involved in.

As I look back over the years, I have lived withindividuals who truly lived stability according to thequote of Brother David. These were women who edifiedme and taught me without knowing it. Stability throughthe years, besides helping us to be “present where weare”, was a steady reminder to “bloom where we areplanted.” It calls us to share the gifts we were givenwith those with whom we live and serve.

In my early years in the Monastery, I recall blood-sisters, Mother Cyrilla Mitsch and her sister, Sr. EulaliaMitsch, who taught me the real meaning of stability.Mother Cyrilla who had been Prioress of our Communityfor ten years became blind in her later years and hersister, Sr. Eulalia, took care of her. Sr. Eulalia helped herto prayer and to the dining area for meals. She lived adouble life, helping Mother Cyrilla at prayer and feedingher at meals. The loving care and response was quiteevident and I was greatly touched by it. Both Sisters weretotally present to where they were and were genuine intheir sharing with each other.

Another Sister who re-enforced Brother David’sdefinition of stability was Sr. Bernarda Ostronic. SisterBernarda was the Community Director of Education.As beginning teachers, we were helped and directed bySr. Bernarda. She worked with us in our collegial studies

“Being truly present where you are.”

and our beginning teaching practices. She was the personto whom we could go for advice and help. In September,1962, as a new school year was beginning, Sister cameto Greensburg Central Catholic for a meeting of all theteachers. As she approached the podium to speak to theassembly, she collapsed. She was rushed to the hospitaland died a few days later, never regaining consciousness.Her stability was shared in the help she gave us as westarted our careers as teachers. She was always presentfor us as she helped us to realize that the students wetaught were the important part of our teaching.

Sister Rosemary Davidson was another Sister wholived her Vow of Stability with real presence by sharingher artistic gifts with the Community. She decorated therefectory (dining room) with her beautiful calligraphy andartistic banners for the various feast days and holidays.As she aged, Parkinson’s disease made it more and moredifficult for her to print the meaningful quotes from theRule of Benedict. But she continued to decorate – sharingwith her Sisters the gifts she had been given. Her presenceis still very much with us on holidays and feastdays aswe continue to look at her artistic creations.

Truly, stability is with us as we touch each other in avariety of loving, unforgettable ways.

By: Sister Kathleen Mack, OSB

ARCHIVALEchoesStability Through the Years

Mother Cyrilla Mitsch, OSB Sr. Eulalia Mitsch, OSB

Sr. Bernarda Ostronic, OSB Sr. Rosemary Davidson, OSB

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The St. Teresa of Avila Players provided the entertainment forthe annual Monastery celebration of Abschied.

Abshied is a German word that means “good-bye, leaving,parting or send-off.” It is a custom or tradition that the BenedictineSisters of Pittsburgh have celebrated since the days when our Sisterscame to the United States from Eichstatt, Bavaria. The customwas especially meaningful when each Sister needed to pack hertrunk at the end of a school year and remove all her items fromher classroom and bedroom since she would never know untilAugust whether or not she would be returning to that particularparish school. On the Feast of the Assumption, August 15, theSisters would receive their “obedience” from the Prioress. This wastheir appointment or assignment of ministry during the followingschool year. Needless to say, that was a day of great suspense andanxiety for many who never knew what message their envelopewould carry.

A number of the St. Teresa Players are graduates of the formerSt. Benedict Academy. Through the years, they have offered theirmusical talents in song and dance as a treat for all of the Sisters.It is also an opportunity for the “students and teachers” to catchup on what is happening in each other’s life.

This year the Players presented “Sunny-side Up”, theircombination of solos, choral ensembles and dance performancesthat made the evening a delight for all who attended.

The Benedictine Sisters are very grateful to all of the St. Teresaof Avila Players who gave their time and talent to making theAbschied celebration such a special one.

Alumnae and FriendsEntertain at AbschiedBy: Sister Judith Ann Criner, OSB

Wheels for Ministry

The Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburghare in need of cars to be used for mission-related purposes. Cars need to be in good,running condition, and preferably withless than 35,000 miles on them. The Sis-ters need cars with front wheel drive, fourdoors, automatic transmission and airconditioning.

Please call Alison Serey in the Office ofCommunity Advancement, 412-931-8968Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m.and 5:00 p.m. if you can help the Sistersby donating a car.

IMPORTANT TIPSInternal Revenue Service (www.irs.gov)

tax laws changed January 1, 2005 fordonating your vehicle. The following IRSforms and publications can assist you.

IRS Publication 561: Determiningthe Value of Donated Property:

This publication is designed to helpdonors and appraisers determine thevalue of property that is given to qualifiedorganizations (such as the BenedictineSisters of Pittsburgh). It also explains whatinformation you must have to support thecharitable contribution deduction youclaim on your return.

IRS Publication 561: Appraisals:

Generally, if the claimed deduction foran item or group of similar items is morethan $5,000, other than money and publiclytraded securities, you must get a qualifiedappraisal made by a qualified appraiser,and you must attach an appraisal summary(Section B of Form 8283) to your tax return.The organization that received the property(such as the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh)must complete and sign Part IV of Section B.

IRS Form 8283: IRS form for non-cashcharitable contributions

Sisters enjoy watching and listening to the St. Teresa Playersduring the Community’s celebration of Abschied.

“Sing the Resurrection Song”


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Florence Mary Miller began her journey of life onMay 11, 1916. Born to Albert and Mary Ann Miller,Florence was the middle child and only daughter. BrothersDavid and Albert honored and loved Florence and at thesame time shared with her a spirited mischievous humor.This humor sparked in Florence a joy and enthusiasmrich with the fearlessness for truth, life and devotion tochildren. Florence’s schooling at St. Boniface School andSt. Benedict Academy entwined her gifts of attentiveness,listening and compassion into a dance of intricate steps.

Florence entered the Community of the BenedictineSisters of Pittsburgh at the age of 19 and soon becameknown as our dear Sister Mary Ruth. Sister’s highereducation was an experience in the Wisdom Traditionof the writing of St. Benedict. Sister responded to God’slove whole-heartedly. It grounded her life to share thislove freely with those she cared for throughout the53 years she gave to children, parents and parishes asteacher and administrator.

The center of Sister Mary Ruth was the prayer ofthe Liturgy of the Hours and daily Eucharist. Sister’s de-light in music and travel often gave expression to herappreciation for the sacramental aspects of creation –God’s hand at work! She recognized God’s dance onthe edge of the earth.

The welcome and delight in the rolling of Ruthie’s largeeyes revealed an open spirit. Sister Mary Ruth was willingto be transformed by a new idea, a person or experience.Newness for her was refreshing. Sister could follow alongin the changing steps of the dance of hospitality.

The welcome and delight in the rolling

of Ruthie’s large eyes revealed an open spirit.

Sister Mary Ruth was willing to be transformed

by a new idea, a person or experience.

Sister Mary Ruth Miller, OSBBy Sister Elizabeth Matz, OSB

Sister Mary Ruth loved the color pink—did it indicatea desire to be in the PINK? Was it a graceful expressionof femininity? Was Sister’s desire for her teachers, childrenand their educational programs to achieve somethingextremely excellent? I am sure it was the latter, for thenthey would all be in the pink!

Sometime before Sister Mary Ruth became critically ill,we spoke of the possibility of our Community moving toa new site. Sister liked the idea of a smaller Monasterywith more conveniences. She also was pleased to thinkthat the halls would be shorter and possibly everythingwould be on one floor. Then she wondered how faraway this new Monastery would be from Pittsburgh.Like Joseph of the Old Testament, she asked if I would besure to carry her bones to the place of the new Monasteryto be buried close to her Community. I assured Sister Iwould do as she requested. I know God had completedthe wish of Joseph. If necessary, I need God to help meprovide her safe movement to the new land as I promised.This intricate dance step she will need to teach me.

For 72 years, Sr. Mary Ruth continued with us inour commitment to seek God. Early in life she resolvedthis commitment as her heart’s deepest desire. Daily herinteractions with us, in good times, in times of pain andin the shivering moments, these became Sister’s effortsto open new horizons with us. She could encourage usin time of bewilderment and struggle. We thank herfor moving with us through the intricate dance ofmonastic living.

Sister Mary Ruth danced into the arms of her lovingGod in the early morning of February 25, the fulfillmentof her Hope.

______________________Z______________________


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A gentle, kind person with a winning smile and

Irish wit, Sister Catherine loved her Benedictine

life and lived it with faithful dedication.

Sister Catherine Murphy, OSBBy Sister Barbara Helder, OSB

After an extended hospital stay, Sister Catherine(Mildred Elizabeth) Murphy longed to be back at SaintBenedict Monastery for Easter. Instead, God welcomedher to her heavenly home as she slipped away April 21,2009 at UPMC Passavant Hospital. She was 84 yearsold and in the 64th year of her Religious Profession.

The youngest of six children, Mildred ElizabethMurphy was born September 6, 1924, to parents Harryand Lucinda Weakland Murphy in the farm country ofHastings, PA. In December of 1943, Mildred Elizabeth,came to the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh to enter re-ligious life. After becoming a novice in July, 1944, shebecame known as Sister M. Catherine. She made her FirstProfession on July 11, 1945, and her Final Profession onJuly 11, 1948.

From 1945 – 2005, Sister Catherine ministered asteacher and principal in Catholic Schools in the Pittsburgh,Greensburg and Altoona-Johnstown Dioceses, and inCanton and Waynesburg, OH. She enjoyed teaching andloved her students. “My most rewarding experiences werewith the children of the classes I taught. Each groupwas unique.” In 2005, she retired to Saint BenedictMonastery where she kept herself busy with coordinatingthe Monastery library, helping with crafts, reading, andjoining in with the daily tasks of monastery living.

A gentle, kind person with a winning smile and Irishwit, Sister Catherine loved her Benedictine life and lived itwith faithful dedication. “I am thankful to God for callingme to be a Benedictine Sister and for his many gracesgiven to me through the years.” She described herself as“prayerful and cheerful,” and throughout her illness, shewas an example of this in gracious and patient suffering.Though she wanted more than anything to come home,she never gave up her spirit of hopeful waiting.

Sister Catherine is survived by one sister, Alberta Uhron,and one brother, Eugene Murphy, both from Hastings, PA.

Sister Audrey Quinn:Finalist “For All the Ways You Care” Contest

By: Sister Judith Ann Criner, OSB

Sister Audrey can be described as a monastic,teacher, Sister, volunteer, listener, organizer, motivatorand “Foster-Mom”. Since 1959, when she entered theBenedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh, Sr. Audrey couldbe called any of those titles. At times, many of thosejob titles could be applied at once.

Recently, Sr. Audrey was recognized for manyof those positions which have led her to serve thevulnerable who are in need. She was named as oneof 10 finalists in the CVS Pharmacy’s “For All theWays You Care” contest.

Audrey was selected from 4,200 national storysubmissions. Sr. Susan Fazzini, who lives withSr. Audrey at the Greene County Mission of theBenedictine Sisters, wrote the nomination story.

As a finalist, Sr. Audrey was honored at acelebratory luncheon in New York. She also received$10,000 in recognition of her acts of caring andthe trip to New York was an all-expense paid mini-vacation for Sr. Audrey and her companion, Sr. Susan.

During the eighteen years that the Sisters havelived in Greene County, they have fostered morethan 160 children, distributed 5,000 new pairs ofshoes to children in need, filled backpacks withitems for teens’ Christmas gifts and assembledThanksgiving baskets for local families in need.

Sr. Audrey now serves the people of Greene Countyas the director of the Salvation Army in that area.

Sister Audrey Quinn (center)with the CVS Pharmacy Teamthat selected her entry as afinalist in the “For All theWays You Care” contest.

Sisters Susan Fazzini and AudreyQuinn attend the dinner in NewYork Center honoring the CVSPharmacy contestants.


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Meet Alison SereyNew Office of Community Advancement Director

Although I was born in the great stateof Illinois, I was especially blessed to havegrown-up in Santa Barbara which is locatedon the coast of Southern California betweenthe Santa Ynez Mountains and the PacificOcean. I have a sister who is one yearyounger than I, and a brother who is twelveyears younger. We were raised Catholic, butattended public schools. I was active incommunity theatre, student government, andtheatre productions at Dos Pueblos HighSchool before graduating in 1968. Afterhigh school I spent several years working asa professional entertainer, traveling with theKing Family on a Western Canadian Tourand traveling to Japan to perform with aLos Angeles dance company as their featuredsinger. Later, I went back to school to earna Bachelor’s of Science degree in BusinessAdministration from the University ofRedlands and a Certificate in Fundraisingfrom the University of Southern California.

In 1992, I married Kentucky-nativeJ. Patrick Serey, whom I met at the ArthritisFoundation’s National Employee Conferencein San Diego, California. Four years later wemet again at a conference in San Francisco,and after ten months we were engaged to bemarried and I was making plans to move toLouisville, Kentucky. We were married at HolySpirit Church in Louisville by a Benedictinepriest, Father Benet Amato, who now resides atSt. Meinrad’s in the State of Indiana. We madeour home in Louisville for fifteen years whereI worked for the University of Kentucky’sJefferson Community College as their firstResource Development Officer. Later, I servedfor seven years as President and CEO for the

Alzheimer’s Association’s Greater Kentuckyand Southern Indiana Chapter. It is Patrick’swork with Volunteers of America that tookus to South Jersey three years ago and thatrecently brought us to Pittsburgh. We lovePittsburgh and we’re here to stay – Go Steelers!Go Penguins! Go Pirates!

Today, I spend my free time cooking,working in the garden, playing tennis, andenjoying the company of my husband, ourfamily and friends. We generally make a tripto California once a year, but we’re fortunateto be able to spend several weekends andholidays with Patrick’s brother and sister andtheir families who reside in eastern andnorthern Kentucky areas. We belong to a largefamily of fun-loving Italian and Irish folks!

After more than thirty years in resourcedevelopment and non-profit management,I am particularly blessed to now be workingwith the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh astheir director for the Office of CommunityAdvancement. It is refreshing and truly apleasure to be working in an environmentthat earnestly promotes living a balanced liferooted in the primary Benedictine value:“Seeking God in All Things.”

I have never been happier or more confidentin those whom I serve and in those whosupport them.

Alison SereyCommunity

AdvancementDirector


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Sister Dolores Conley recently gave ashowing of a compilation of her artwork atthe North Hills Art Show. The main featureof the exhibit was her clay sculptures ofhands entitled “The Way”. The hands werean interpretation of the Way of the Cross.

Sister Dolores remarks about theseStations: “God has blessed me with someartistic ability. My life as an artist has beenmostly as an art teacher, but having thisinspiration to create a different means ofmeditating on the passion of Jesus has beenmy way of sharing God’s wondrous lovefor all of humankind.”

Other displayed pieces of Sister’s art were watercolors, framedhandmade paper art, collograph prints, glass plate prints, etchings,and bronze and aluminum cast sculptures.

Sister Dolores has long practiced the technique of papermaking.Her creation of a quilt entitled “The Journey”, made solely frompaper, was also on display.

At present, Sr. Dolores is an art educator at Mt. Alvernia HighSchool in Millvale, PA. When not engaged in media art, Sr. Doloreshas a variety of other artistic talents that she freely shares withothers. Sister has performed in community ballet productions;been the creative designer for theater scenery; created numerousdisplays for the Monastery Community to enhance various holidaysand celebrations.

North Hills Art Show:Featuring the Work of Sister Dolores Conley

By: Sister Judith Ann Criner, OSB

Wish List

The Sisters’ would deeply appreciate receivingthe following items:

� New or gently used Postal Scale for useat the Monastery.

� New or gently used Battery Tester foruse at the Monastery.

� Coupons for Car Detailing to assist the“car cleaning crew” that gathers severaltimes doing the summer to make sureall the Monastery cars are cleaned andwaxed inside and out.

� Cotton material that is one yard orlonger for Sister Donna Wojtyna whomanages the Monastery’s crafts department.

� Donated Jewelry for Sr. Christine’s JewelryBoutique located at the Monastery whichhelps to support the Sisters’ ministries.

If you wish to contribute any of the abovelisted items, please call Alison or Sister Jeannein the Office of Community Advancement at412-931-8968 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.to 5 p.m.

� New or gently used sleeping bags, newbackpacks and new shoes for childrenin Greene County served by Sister AudreyQuinn and Sister Susan Fazzini. Sleepingbags are for children to use at summer camp;new backpacks are for their Christmasbackpack project; and new shoes aredistributed to needy children through their“Heart and Sole” program.

If you can help with any of these items, pleasecontact Sisters Audrey or Susan, 724-852-4323.

Volunteers are needed to help the Sisterswith the Gift Shop display and seasonalchecking of the inventory at the Monastery.If you wish to serve as a volunteer, pleasecall Sister Donna Wojtyna, 412-931-2844x103 Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.to 5 p.m.

Two of the Stationsthat were created bySr. Dolores Conley, OSB.

Displayed in the North HillsArt Gallery, are other artpieces created by Sr. Dolores.

“The Ballerina” is oneof Sr. Dolores’s worksin bronze.

Sister Dolores (right) discussesseveral of her clay sculptureswith attendees at her artshow opening.


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Share the

Power of Prayerwith ThoseYou Love.

______________________Z______________________

______________________Z______________________

All Occasion (Daisy)

All Occasion (Stained Glass)

Deceased

Healing

Credit Card Donations

The Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh now accept Discover in addition to MasterCard and Visa for those individualswho prefer the ease of using a credit card for making donations throughout the year. Credit card donations can beaccepted through US mail as well as on-line at [email protected]. It is our hope that these options enable individualsto easily participate in supporting the Sisters’ and their ministries

Whether you want to celebrate with someone whois marking a special occasion, comfort someone whois grieving, or offer prayers to someone who is ill,you can do more than send flowers … you can senda spiritual bouquet.

Spiritual bouquets are cards that commemorateany occasion, cards that allow you to honor a lovedone, living or deceased, in a lasting way. The personsyou honor with well wishes are also remembered byour Sisters in their daily prayers and ministries and atthe offering of the Eucharist each day at the Monastery.Your deceased loved ones are also remembered in theprayers and sufferings of our elderly or ill Sisters andin a series of special Masses offered in Novembereach year.

One of the most beautiful aspects of these spiritualcards is that by reaching out to your loved one withbest wishes and prayer, you also reach out to astranger in need. When you use one of our cardsand send us a voluntary offering, you support ourmission to spread peace and justice through ourministries to the most vulnerable among us.

All you have to do is request a set of cards and we will sendthem to you. Then, when you send a card to a loved one, send usthe name of the person to be remembered in prayer along withany donation you wish to include. We give you a special form andreturn envelope for this purpose. It’s as simple as that to senda lasting and loving spiritual bouquet.

Spiritual Bouquets…Heartfelt wishes for every occasion


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The Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh have established TheHeritage Society to recognize benefactors who include them in theirestate plans through planned gifts such as Charitable Gift Annuitiesand Bequests through Wills.

“A Charitable Gift Annuity provides the donor with an incomefor life at a fixed rate and generates tax advantages,” says AlisonSerey, director of the Office of Community Advancement. “Afterthe life of the donor, the remainder of the annuity would come tothe Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh.” Funds to the Sisters throughCharitable Gift Annuities and Bequests through Wills preserveBenedictine values for future generations and ensure that the goodworks of the Sisters continue for the benefit of the disadvantaged.“There is richness in the Benedictine heritage, a heritage thatreflects good stewardship while promoting faith, hope and peace,”said Serey.

Heritage Society members are remembered in the Sisters’ dailyprayers and may be recognized in printed materials published bythe Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh. “We hope that between nowand the next issue of Benedictines, Heritage Society members willcome forward so that we can thank them and provide them withadditional benefits during their lifetime, ” said Sister Benita.

Bequests and Charitable Gift Annuities are two plannedgiving options among others available to donors. Informationon all planned giving vehicles can be obtained by visitingwww.osbpgh.org/giftplanning or by calling the Office ofCommunity Advancement, 412-931-8968.

Visit www.osbpgh.org/giftplanning for information onall planned giving opportunities and associated benefits.

The Heritage SocietyAre you a member or planning to become one?

The Sisters continue to make plans for

the future of ministries to the needy of the

regions where they serve and reside.

ST. BENEDICTINE

ST. SCHOLASTICA

We are the Benedictine Sisters of Pittsburgh,continuing 1500 years of seeking

God in Community, Prayer and Ministry.

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