During times of civil unrest
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Dear Brothers and Sisters,
My heart is torn in so many directions these days – from COVID-19 to the effects systemic racism has on our communities and country. The devastation that is resulting from both is weakening our nation. Day after day, innocent people are being harmed. The very soul of our nation is dying. This past month, people have taken to the streets to voice their opposition to the deaths of unarmed people of color at the hands of police officers. In our very own Omaha community, citizens and police have been hurt, a young man has been shot and killed, and anger continues to boil over. To our brothers and sisters of color, we are with you. We stand in witness to the struggles you face daily in our community. We want to see justice served for senseless murders. Since the pandemic began we hear the recurring phrase, “We are in this together.” It can be difficult to believe this when we see neighbor standing against neighbor on every TV news station. Let’s not let this phrase be buried under all that we are viewing each day. Remember, we ARE in this together. In Omaha, our police are and our community are in this together. In Omaha, our citizens of color and our local government are in this together. In Omaha, our religious and non-religious neighbors are in this together. As a woman religious, I ask forgiveness of our sisters and brothers of color for inadvertently bringing harm by my inaction and through my negative action. I pray for the healing of relationships; I pray for healing for our cities and our nation. I wish to dedicate myself, once again, to building God’s beloved community. Can we try this together? |
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Join us for live updates
In an attempt to keep us all together during this time of distancing, we are attempting something new: live updates from Sisters on Facebook. Each week we will see a different Notre Dame Sister giving an update on her work, life, and more while distancing from the community.
Our next live event is with Sr Joy Connealy Wednesday, April 29, at 10:30 here on Facebook.
Our next live event is with Sr Joy Connealy Wednesday, April 29, at 10:30 here on Facebook.
Remembering Sister Christine Elias, ND
Our beloved Sister Christine Elias passed away on April 20, 2020, at the age of 100.
Sr Christine’s 100 years of life cannot be summed up in a short post like this. Her spirit will be missed. We have all considered her “God’s cheerleader”, walking through the halls of her community affirming staff, and visiting with others, raising everyone’s spirits.
She was a Notre Dame Sister from 1948 to 2020, 72 years, and she was the oldest member of the Notre Dame Sisters congregation. Throughout her life, she held many titles -- Sister, teacher, principal, parish minister, interpreter, and volunteer -- always a shining light to everyone who knew her. Upon her retirement in 2002, she continued to serve the community in many ways. She loved life, music, dancing, and singing.
Sr. Christine is a native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and the daughter of the late Josef and Katerina (Barta) Elias. She joined the Notre Dame Sisters in 1946, professing her vows on August 13, 1948. She served as an elementary grade teacher and principal in the dioceses of Dubuque, Lincoln, Salina and Omaha. In Omaha she served as teacher and principal at St. Therese School and as principal at Assumption School.
After 33 years of teaching and administration, Sister Christine became a Parish Minister at St. Ludmila Parish in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with special care for the elderly. After her retirement in 1994 she continued volunteer work in Cedar Rapids, again visiting the elderly, assisting at the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store and serving as guide at the Czech/Slovak Museum. Sr. Christine’s strong Czech background and knowledge of the language were vital in the translations of both congregational documents and during international congregational meetings in Europe.
Sister Christine retired to the Notre Dame Motherhouse in 2002 where she continued her volunteer work and her strong advocacy against the Death Penalty in Nebraska. In 2014 she began residency at Immanuel Courtyard where again she reached out to fellow residents to bring them her joy and affirmation.
Needing more assistance, Sr. Christine entered Immanuel Fontenelle in 2017. The staff noted very often how wonderful it was having her there, meeting her on the hallways, cheering along the residents and the staff and singing for them very often. She remained involved with activities until last fall when she entered Hospice care on the Fontenelle campus. She died peacefully at 6:15 p.m. on April 20th.
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Visitation will be Sunday, April 26th from 2pm to 4pm, at Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler Mortuaries, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha NE 68124.
A graveside service will be held Monday, April 27th, 11 am. St. John’s Cemetery Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
You can read the official obituary here: https://www.omaha.com/…/article_7080efc8-9854-5852-90fb-2ea…
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Below are some loving comments about Sister Christine from her friends on Facebook:
Carla RF. - I have always had fond memories of Sister Christine. She was our principal at Sacred Heart. I admired her so much that I chose Christine as my confirmation name. Prayers for her family.
Marcy M. - Sr. Christine would come to my office every morning singing as beautifully as only she could. On. Occasionally there would be music in the activity area and I would never turn down a dance with this lovely woman. She will be in my heart and memory forever. RIP Sr. Christine.
Monica B. - She touched many lives at Assumption in South Omaha! Well done, good and faithful servant. She has joined the choir of heavenly angels!
Sharon WR. - Rest in peace, Sr. Christine. I still remember some of the funny stories you told of your days at St. Ludmila's. You were my favorite principal in elementary school and it was even better to get to know you a little as an adult.
Denis P. - So happy for Sr. Christine to have gone to her eternal home. I had her as our principal at Sacred Heart in Atwood. I was very touched to receive a card from her as well as from Sr. Josita when my Dad died. She left a positive and indelible impression on this young student. May she Rest In Peace, and may the members of your community also find peace.
Leo H - Hate to disclose how old we are but Sister Christine taught me in First Grade at Assumption Grade School in Dwight, Nebraska. She impressed all of us with her teaching abilities and compassion for all her students. So much so we knew she had to be doing this for many years. Only later did we find out we were her first class to teach and she was scared to death. She sure has us fooled.
Sr Christine’s 100 years of life cannot be summed up in a short post like this. Her spirit will be missed. We have all considered her “God’s cheerleader”, walking through the halls of her community affirming staff, and visiting with others, raising everyone’s spirits.
She was a Notre Dame Sister from 1948 to 2020, 72 years, and she was the oldest member of the Notre Dame Sisters congregation. Throughout her life, she held many titles -- Sister, teacher, principal, parish minister, interpreter, and volunteer -- always a shining light to everyone who knew her. Upon her retirement in 2002, she continued to serve the community in many ways. She loved life, music, dancing, and singing.
Sr. Christine is a native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and the daughter of the late Josef and Katerina (Barta) Elias. She joined the Notre Dame Sisters in 1946, professing her vows on August 13, 1948. She served as an elementary grade teacher and principal in the dioceses of Dubuque, Lincoln, Salina and Omaha. In Omaha she served as teacher and principal at St. Therese School and as principal at Assumption School.
After 33 years of teaching and administration, Sister Christine became a Parish Minister at St. Ludmila Parish in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with special care for the elderly. After her retirement in 1994 she continued volunteer work in Cedar Rapids, again visiting the elderly, assisting at the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store and serving as guide at the Czech/Slovak Museum. Sr. Christine’s strong Czech background and knowledge of the language were vital in the translations of both congregational documents and during international congregational meetings in Europe.
Sister Christine retired to the Notre Dame Motherhouse in 2002 where she continued her volunteer work and her strong advocacy against the Death Penalty in Nebraska. In 2014 she began residency at Immanuel Courtyard where again she reached out to fellow residents to bring them her joy and affirmation.
Needing more assistance, Sr. Christine entered Immanuel Fontenelle in 2017. The staff noted very often how wonderful it was having her there, meeting her on the hallways, cheering along the residents and the staff and singing for them very often. She remained involved with activities until last fall when she entered Hospice care on the Fontenelle campus. She died peacefully at 6:15 p.m. on April 20th.
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Visitation will be Sunday, April 26th from 2pm to 4pm, at Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler Mortuaries, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha NE 68124.
A graveside service will be held Monday, April 27th, 11 am. St. John’s Cemetery Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
You can read the official obituary here: https://www.omaha.com/…/article_7080efc8-9854-5852-90fb-2ea…
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Below are some loving comments about Sister Christine from her friends on Facebook:
Carla RF. - I have always had fond memories of Sister Christine. She was our principal at Sacred Heart. I admired her so much that I chose Christine as my confirmation name. Prayers for her family.
Marcy M. - Sr. Christine would come to my office every morning singing as beautifully as only she could. On. Occasionally there would be music in the activity area and I would never turn down a dance with this lovely woman. She will be in my heart and memory forever. RIP Sr. Christine.
Monica B. - She touched many lives at Assumption in South Omaha! Well done, good and faithful servant. She has joined the choir of heavenly angels!
Sharon WR. - Rest in peace, Sr. Christine. I still remember some of the funny stories you told of your days at St. Ludmila's. You were my favorite principal in elementary school and it was even better to get to know you a little as an adult.
Denis P. - So happy for Sr. Christine to have gone to her eternal home. I had her as our principal at Sacred Heart in Atwood. I was very touched to receive a card from her as well as from Sr. Josita when my Dad died. She left a positive and indelible impression on this young student. May she Rest In Peace, and may the members of your community also find peace.
Leo H - Hate to disclose how old we are but Sister Christine taught me in First Grade at Assumption Grade School in Dwight, Nebraska. She impressed all of us with her teaching abilities and compassion for all her students. So much so we knew she had to be doing this for many years. Only later did we find out we were her first class to teach and she was scared to death. She sure has us fooled.
Join us to celebrate the memory of Sister Phyllis Marie Heble
Join us to celebrate the memory of Sister Phyllis Marie Heble November 4th and 5th at Notre Dame with burial in Calvary Cemetery. Sister Phyllis Marie Heble, a Notre Dame Sister for 64 years, died at Immanuel Fontenelle in Omaha, NE, on Sunday, October 27. She was 87 years of age.
Services are as follows:
Homecoming:
Monday, November 4th at 4 p.m.
Visitation from 6-7 p.m.
Vigil service at 7 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial:
Tuesday, November 5th at 10 a.m. at Cavalry Cemetery (7710 W Center Rd)
All are welcome to join us in remembering Sister Phyllis Marie.
Services are as follows:
Homecoming:
Monday, November 4th at 4 p.m.
Visitation from 6-7 p.m.
Vigil service at 7 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial:
Tuesday, November 5th at 10 a.m. at Cavalry Cemetery (7710 W Center Rd)
All are welcome to join us in remembering Sister Phyllis Marie.
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Kolache Sale benefiting Safe Homes was a sell-out success
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On October 5th and 6th, Notre Dame Sisters and Associates sold out of their homemade kolache at the North Omaha Pottery Tour.
Coinciding with Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the sisters raised hundreds of dollars to provide one-time rent and utilities stipends to women moving on from domestic violence and homeless shelters via our Safe Homes Program. Missed the Kolache Sale but still want to support Safe Homes? Support our work here Through our Safe Homes Program we provide start-up funds for victims escaping domestic violence situation. Safe Homes offers one-time financial assistance to a woman and her children leaving a shelter or other program that has provided her with education, counseling, support, and a plan as she transitions into independent living. Keeping on with Safe Homes A second service of Safe Homes is to provide encouragement during the first year to become successful renters.Through Keeping On with Safe Homes a Notre Dame liaison provides regular contact with a recipient to ensure timely rental payments and to help with additional community services. We are proud to partner with the following organizations:
How it Began In 1978, Catholic Charities and the Notre Dame Sisters established The Shelter for women and their children fleeing domestic violence. Notre Dame Sisters provided funding and staff support. With significant growth, Catholic Charities took over the administration of the Shelter. It became apparent that a need for assistance with first month rent and utility deposit existed. The Notre Dame Sisters’ vision of service culminated in research that clearly indicated there was a need. Thus, Safe Homes was born. Why We Do This We, the Notre Dame Sisters and Associates, committed ourselves to alleviate family violence by assisting in providing transitional housing because of the principles of Catholic social teaching. Support our work here |
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The Notre Dame Sisters of the Omaha Province
Issue a Public Statement on the Treatment of Immigrants, Refugees, and Asylum Seekers
We speak out for those suffering on our border and in detention centers. We join with the many religious, non-governmental organizations, and citizens calling for the Federal Administration and US Congress to take action to end the inhumane treatment of immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers arriving in the United States.
We call specifically on Congress and the President to address these immoral conditions. We promote legislation that includes family reunification, a path to earned legalization, worker protections, and an effective border policy that is humane rather than punitive.
Notre Dame Sisters
Omaha Province
7/28/2019
We call specifically on Congress and the President to address these immoral conditions. We promote legislation that includes family reunification, a path to earned legalization, worker protections, and an effective border policy that is humane rather than punitive.
Notre Dame Sisters
Omaha Province
7/28/2019
FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Women & Religion Lecture 2019
Complicity and Resistance:
The Female Face of Racial (In)Justice
Professor Jeannine Hill Fletcher
Tuesday, Oct 1, 2019, 5:00 pm, Harper Center Ballroom
Because racism is a structural reality, no one in a White supremacist society is untouched by its evil. And yet, women’s roles in racial injustice have historically been under-studied. With new research through a feminist lens, we see the wide range of ways women have been agents of both complicity and resistance. Employing methods of self-involvement in this research, Hill Fletcher asks, what are we to do when we discover injustice in our own institutions – of church and university – and how are we agents of complicity and resistance?
Professor Jeannine Hill Fletcher, Department of Theology, Fordham University, teaches at the intersection of Systematic Theology and issues of diversity (religious diversity, Christian cultural diversity, race and gender). Her work explores the role of theological thinking in shaping public discourse, including both activism and legislation. Hill Fletcher’s most recent book, The Sin of White Supremacy:
Christianity, Racism, and Religious Diversity in America (Orbis 2017), investigates the relation of Christian
supremacy to White supremacy in the United States.
Professor Jeannine Hill Fletcher, Department of Theology, Fordham University, teaches at the intersection of Systematic Theology and issues of diversity (religious diversity, Christian cultural diversity, race and gender). Her work explores the role of theological thinking in shaping public discourse, including both activism and legislation. Hill Fletcher’s most recent book, The Sin of White Supremacy:
Christianity, Racism, and Religious Diversity in America (Orbis 2017), investigates the relation of Christian
supremacy to White supremacy in the United States.
Congratulations to our 2019 Jubilarians
Sr. Celeste Wobeter, ND – 60 Years of Religious Profession
Sr. Celeste Wobeter, born in Elberon, Iowa, to Celestine and Frances Wobeter, attended a country school in Iowa, and graduated from Notre Dame Academy in Omaha. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in education from Duchesne College in Omaha and a master’s degree in mathematics from Seattle University.
Sister served as a teacher at St. Therese’s in Omaha, St. Wenceslaus in Dodge, Wahoo Catholic and Neumann High Schools in Wahoo. She was pastoral minister at St. Patrick’s Parish in Fremont from 1981 to 2003. For her Notre Dame community, sister was formation director, a member of the leadership team and president of the community. She has been a representative on the international constitution committee and a delegate to the General Chapter delegate in the Czech Republic. Sister is also a spiritual director, retreat director and hospital chaplain. She currently is a part-time chaplain for CHI hospice and part-time with the Coalition on Human Trafficking, and chair of the Training and Education Committee of the Coalition.
Sister Celeste will celebrate 60 years of religious profession in early August, 2019.
Sr. Cynthia Hruby, ND - 50 years of Religious Profession
Sister Cynthia Anne Hruby, daughter of Tillie (Dostal) and Dominic D. Hruby, will celebrate 50 years of religious profession August 4, 2019. Her Butler County family moved from Linwood to Clarkson where she began her education in a country school then continued as a boarder at St. Wenceslaus in Dodge. She transferred to Sts. Peter and Paul and later to St. John Nepomucene in Howells. She completed her Catholic elementary education as one of the first graduates from Bishop Neumann School in Clarkson. Secondary education at Notre Dame Academy in Omaha included three years in the Aspirant Program, the first step in the formation provided to young women interested in joining the sisters. She continued in their program during college and made first profession of vows in August 1969.
Sister earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and Natural Sciences from the University of Nebraska-Omaha in 1972 and a Masters in Christian Spirituality from Creighton University in 1982. As ministry options developed, she earned several certificates, including the Youth Ministry and the Advanced Studies in Youth Ministry Certificates from the Center for Ministry Development in Connecticut, the Family Ministry Certificate from the Omaha Archdiocese, and the USCCB Campus Ministry Certificate. In 2006 she completed a Master of Science in Education/Counseling-Student Affairs Practice from Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska.
Sister’s ministry included teaching, grief ministry, and college campus ministry
Sister Mary Kay Meagher, ND
Sister Mary Kay Meagher, daughter of Anthony & Margaret Meagher, will celebrate 60 years of religious profession in August, 2019. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Marillac College ad her Masters of Science in Nursing from Loyola University in Chicago.
The major part of her ministry in the nursing field was in various positions in hospitals, clinics and community health sites. She was Executive Director of Indian Chicano Health Center for five years, worked as a Nurse Practitioner in several local clinics and five years at One World’s first school based clinic. She was Assistant Professor of Nursing at Creighton University School of Nursing for 13 years. She also served in Central America (El Salvador, Guatemala), Nigeria in Africa, Bolivia in South American and a refugee camp in Thailand.
Sr. Celeste Wobeter, born in Elberon, Iowa, to Celestine and Frances Wobeter, attended a country school in Iowa, and graduated from Notre Dame Academy in Omaha. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in education from Duchesne College in Omaha and a master’s degree in mathematics from Seattle University.
Sister served as a teacher at St. Therese’s in Omaha, St. Wenceslaus in Dodge, Wahoo Catholic and Neumann High Schools in Wahoo. She was pastoral minister at St. Patrick’s Parish in Fremont from 1981 to 2003. For her Notre Dame community, sister was formation director, a member of the leadership team and president of the community. She has been a representative on the international constitution committee and a delegate to the General Chapter delegate in the Czech Republic. Sister is also a spiritual director, retreat director and hospital chaplain. She currently is a part-time chaplain for CHI hospice and part-time with the Coalition on Human Trafficking, and chair of the Training and Education Committee of the Coalition.
Sister Celeste will celebrate 60 years of religious profession in early August, 2019.
Sr. Cynthia Hruby, ND - 50 years of Religious Profession
Sister Cynthia Anne Hruby, daughter of Tillie (Dostal) and Dominic D. Hruby, will celebrate 50 years of religious profession August 4, 2019. Her Butler County family moved from Linwood to Clarkson where she began her education in a country school then continued as a boarder at St. Wenceslaus in Dodge. She transferred to Sts. Peter and Paul and later to St. John Nepomucene in Howells. She completed her Catholic elementary education as one of the first graduates from Bishop Neumann School in Clarkson. Secondary education at Notre Dame Academy in Omaha included three years in the Aspirant Program, the first step in the formation provided to young women interested in joining the sisters. She continued in their program during college and made first profession of vows in August 1969.
Sister earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and Natural Sciences from the University of Nebraska-Omaha in 1972 and a Masters in Christian Spirituality from Creighton University in 1982. As ministry options developed, she earned several certificates, including the Youth Ministry and the Advanced Studies in Youth Ministry Certificates from the Center for Ministry Development in Connecticut, the Family Ministry Certificate from the Omaha Archdiocese, and the USCCB Campus Ministry Certificate. In 2006 she completed a Master of Science in Education/Counseling-Student Affairs Practice from Wayne State College in Wayne, Nebraska.
Sister’s ministry included teaching, grief ministry, and college campus ministry
Sister Mary Kay Meagher, ND
Sister Mary Kay Meagher, daughter of Anthony & Margaret Meagher, will celebrate 60 years of religious profession in August, 2019. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Marillac College ad her Masters of Science in Nursing from Loyola University in Chicago.
The major part of her ministry in the nursing field was in various positions in hospitals, clinics and community health sites. She was Executive Director of Indian Chicano Health Center for five years, worked as a Nurse Practitioner in several local clinics and five years at One World’s first school based clinic. She was Assistant Professor of Nursing at Creighton University School of Nursing for 13 years. She also served in Central America (El Salvador, Guatemala), Nigeria in Africa, Bolivia in South American and a refugee camp in Thailand.
LCWR Extends Sympathy to the Tree of Life Congregation and Calls for the Healing of Divisions
November 1, 2018
Our hearts are heavy, and our souls pained. The slaughter of our brothers and sisters in faith gathered in prayer at Tree of Life Congregation is a profound tragedy. The intrusion of anti-Semitism and violence into God's sacred space is an abomination which must be condemned.
The Leadership Conference of Women Religious extends its sympathy on behalf of Catholic sisters across the nation to the families of those who lost their lives, the Tree of Life Congregation, the community of Squirrel Hill, and the people of Pittsburgh. We will mourn with you. We will pray with you. We will walk with you in the spirit of God's love.
Shootings at synagogues and schools, churches and mosques, in our homes and on our streets have become all too common. The current political climate and growing polarization of our communities feed hate and spawn violence. The racist rhetoric and the senseless rancor must stop. White supremacists and their white nationalist ideology must be exposed and denounced. Anti-Semitism, racism, and hate of all kinds must be clearly condemned by our religious and political leaders, and each of us as well.
We acknowledge that all of us have played a role in the polarization of our communities and the denigration of the other. Each of us must participate in the healing and binding of wounds for which our communities long. We offer our prayers for the members of the Tree of Life Congregation and for all who have been victims of hate and violence and we say loudly and clearly, enough.
Margaret Hickey, ND
3501 State Street
Omaha, NE 68112
mhickey@notredamesisters.org
Our hearts are heavy, and our souls pained. The slaughter of our brothers and sisters in faith gathered in prayer at Tree of Life Congregation is a profound tragedy. The intrusion of anti-Semitism and violence into God's sacred space is an abomination which must be condemned.
The Leadership Conference of Women Religious extends its sympathy on behalf of Catholic sisters across the nation to the families of those who lost their lives, the Tree of Life Congregation, the community of Squirrel Hill, and the people of Pittsburgh. We will mourn with you. We will pray with you. We will walk with you in the spirit of God's love.
Shootings at synagogues and schools, churches and mosques, in our homes and on our streets have become all too common. The current political climate and growing polarization of our communities feed hate and spawn violence. The racist rhetoric and the senseless rancor must stop. White supremacists and their white nationalist ideology must be exposed and denounced. Anti-Semitism, racism, and hate of all kinds must be clearly condemned by our religious and political leaders, and each of us as well.
We acknowledge that all of us have played a role in the polarization of our communities and the denigration of the other. Each of us must participate in the healing and binding of wounds for which our communities long. We offer our prayers for the members of the Tree of Life Congregation and for all who have been victims of hate and violence and we say loudly and clearly, enough.
Margaret Hickey, ND
3501 State Street
Omaha, NE 68112
mhickey@notredamesisters.org
Notre Dame Sister's Grotto Receives Update and Blessing
On August 19th, the Notre Dame Sisters celebrated their volunteers. Over 70 volunteers participated in Mass by Father Philip Rauth and the blessing of the additions to our Grotto. The stones in front of the Grotto represent the Notre Dame Sisters of the Omaha Province from 1910 to present day and into the future. Please stop by to see this gorgeous area!
LCWR Nebraska Letter to the Omaha World Herald's Public Pulse - Response to the Execution Held in Nebraska on August 14, 2018
As citizens of the state, we empower systems that establish order and work to curb violence. When an individual chooses to commit a violent act, government is tasked to hold that person responsible and protect society.
Yesterday, the State of Nebraska deliberately ended a life as punishment for murder. The government that we empower killed one of our citizens. When a life is taken it cannot be replaced. The loss is permanent. Taking another’s life in response, whether in the guise of justice or retribution, does not heal, compensate, or restore. Rather, it increases the violence in our world. When violence is committed in the name of the state we are all complicit, even though not all of us condone such actions.
As leaders of Catholic communities of women religious, we call for continued reflection on the ways in which we, as a society, perpetuate violence. We also ask for forgiveness for the harm that is done in our collective names. We believe that most Nebraska citizens want to work toward an end to violence; we need a government that is courageous to lead that effort.
Sincerely,
Margaret Hickey, ND
President, Notre Dame Sisters
Mary Gehringer, OSM
Prioress, Servants of Mary
Susan Sanders, RSM
President, Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community
Yesterday, the State of Nebraska deliberately ended a life as punishment for murder. The government that we empower killed one of our citizens. When a life is taken it cannot be replaced. The loss is permanent. Taking another’s life in response, whether in the guise of justice or retribution, does not heal, compensate, or restore. Rather, it increases the violence in our world. When violence is committed in the name of the state we are all complicit, even though not all of us condone such actions.
As leaders of Catholic communities of women religious, we call for continued reflection on the ways in which we, as a society, perpetuate violence. We also ask for forgiveness for the harm that is done in our collective names. We believe that most Nebraska citizens want to work toward an end to violence; we need a government that is courageous to lead that effort.
Sincerely,
Margaret Hickey, ND
President, Notre Dame Sisters
Mary Gehringer, OSM
Prioress, Servants of Mary
Susan Sanders, RSM
President, Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community
LCWR Nebraska Letter - Supporting Nebraska bishops' similar article to the Omaha World Herald
To the Editor:
It has been thirty-nine years since the murders of two Omaha cab drivers. The lives of two men were callously ended. Two families were deprived of their loved ones. Our community lost two citizens.
When asked his thoughts about the scheduled execution of Carey Dean Moore, Steve Helgeland, the son of Maynard Helgeland who was shot and killed by Moore in August of 1979, said “I have no interest in watching him die. It’s not going to do anything for me.” We agree.
As women who have joined communities of Catholic religious sisters serving in Nebraska to spread the Gospel by teaching and example, we don’t see anything to be gained by executing an inmate who has been safely incarcerated by our prison system for decades. On the contrary, the State sponsored killing of an individual, even one convicted of the heinous crime of murder, contributes to the cycle of violence that is endemic in our society.
Through our histories and our service to the people of Nebraska, we have striven to be educators, healers and advocates for the vulnerable members of our community. We call on the State to do the same: to show mercy and true justice by foregoing another violent and senseless killing. At the same time, we pray for healing and comfort for the victims of violence and for a change of heart and behavior for those who perpetrate such violence.
Sincerely,
Margaret Hickey, ND
President, Notre Dame Sisters
(3501 State St. Omaha, NE 68112)
Mary Gehringer, OSM
Prioress, Servants of Mary
(7400 Military Rd. Omaha, NE 68134)
Susan Sanders, RSM
President, Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community
(7262 Mercy Rd. Omaha, NE 68134)
It has been thirty-nine years since the murders of two Omaha cab drivers. The lives of two men were callously ended. Two families were deprived of their loved ones. Our community lost two citizens.
When asked his thoughts about the scheduled execution of Carey Dean Moore, Steve Helgeland, the son of Maynard Helgeland who was shot and killed by Moore in August of 1979, said “I have no interest in watching him die. It’s not going to do anything for me.” We agree.
As women who have joined communities of Catholic religious sisters serving in Nebraska to spread the Gospel by teaching and example, we don’t see anything to be gained by executing an inmate who has been safely incarcerated by our prison system for decades. On the contrary, the State sponsored killing of an individual, even one convicted of the heinous crime of murder, contributes to the cycle of violence that is endemic in our society.
Through our histories and our service to the people of Nebraska, we have striven to be educators, healers and advocates for the vulnerable members of our community. We call on the State to do the same: to show mercy and true justice by foregoing another violent and senseless killing. At the same time, we pray for healing and comfort for the victims of violence and for a change of heart and behavior for those who perpetrate such violence.
Sincerely,
Margaret Hickey, ND
President, Notre Dame Sisters
(3501 State St. Omaha, NE 68112)
Mary Gehringer, OSM
Prioress, Servants of Mary
(7400 Military Rd. Omaha, NE 68134)
Susan Sanders, RSM
President, Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community
(7262 Mercy Rd. Omaha, NE 68134)
Congratulations to our 2018 Jubilarians
Sr. Christine Elias 70th, Sr. Karen Rolenc 60th, Sr. Rita Ostry 50th, Sr. Veronica Jo Posekany 50th
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Sister Christine Elias, a native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa celebrated seventy years as a Notre Dame Sister on June 10, 2018 with family, friends and her religious community at a Eucharistic Liturgy and reception.
The daughter of the late Joseph and Katerina Elias, Sister made her profession of vows in 1948. She attended the College of St. Mary where she earned a bachelor of education degree, and Creighton University where she earned a master’s in education. She served as teacher and/or principal in Iowa at St. Ludmilla School, Cedar Rapids and St. Joseph in Chelsea; in Nebraska at Assumption in Dwight, St. Theresa’s and Assumption in Omaha; and in Kansas at Sacred Heart in Atwood. In 1980 Sister Christine became parish associate in St. Ludmilla in Cedar Rapids with a focus on the needs of the elderly and the ill. She volunteered at the St. Vincent de Paul Society Store and spent many years as docent for the Czech and Slovak Museum in Cedar Rapids.
Sister Christine served as a member of the Notre Dame leadership team and as a delegate to the congregations’ International Chapter held in the Czech Republic.
Currently Sr. Christine resides at Immanuel Fontenelle where she ministers through her prayer and by her presence to other residents.
Sr. Karen Rolenc, daughter of the late Joseph and Agnes Polak Rolenc, will celebrate sixty years of vows as a Notre Dame Sister on June 10 at 2 p.m. at the Notre Dame Chapel in Omaha. Born in Brainard, Nebraska, Sister attended Holy Trinity School until eighth grade, and graduated from Notre Dame Academy in Omaha. She attended Omaha Technical College and Metropolitan Community College, both in Omaha, where she earned an Associate degree in Applied Science/Early Childhood/Head Teacher/Director.
After professing vows in 1958, Sister performed housekeeping duties at the motherhouse and at Assumption Convent in Omaha; St. Ludmilla Convent in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and St. Wenceslaus Convent in Wahoo. She spent seven years as sale room supervisor at Our Lady of Lourdes in Porcupine, South Dakota. From 1973 to 2009 her ministry was in child care as supervisor at St. James Day Care, teacher at Child Saving Institute, supervisor of teachers at Creche Child Care, and coordinator of St. Richard’s Day care, all in Omaha. Currently Sister Karen is personal care coordinator for the Notre Dame Sisters living at Immanuel Fontenelle and Courtyard.
Celebrating 50 years of religious profession is Sister Rita Ostry, daughter of the deceased Joseph and Marie (Matulka) Ostry. Born in Surprise, Nebraska she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in elementary education and a Master’s Degree in social work, both from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
In her elementary education ministry she served in Nebraska at Howells Community Catholic School (1970-71), St. Adalbert’s in Omaha (1971-1977) and St. Mary’s School in David City (1977-1978). In South Dakota she worked on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation at Our Lady of Lourdes School in Porcupine (1978-84; 1989-2002; and 2010-2017) and at Red Cloud Indian School in Pine Ridge (1987-1989).
Sr. Rita served on the Notre Dame Provincial Council from 2002-2009 and currently serves on the Leadership Team for the community. Her commitment to peace and justice has impacted the lives of students and colleagues.
A native of Chelsea, Iowa, Sister Veronica Jo Posekany, has been a Notre Dame Sister for 50 years. The daughter of the late John and Mayme Posekany, Sr. Veronica Jo has served in the Omaha Archdiocese her entire career in the nursing field. She served at St. Vincent’s Home for the Aged and for over 45 years gave excellent care to patients at University Hospital and Nebraska Medicine as a registered nurse. She is known for her compassion and personal attention.
Currently serving as Health Care Coordinator for the Notre Dame Sisters, Sr. Veronica Jo continues her healing ministry. A celebration of her Golden Jubilee will take place on June 10, 2018 at the Notre Dame Chapel in Omaha.
The daughter of the late Joseph and Katerina Elias, Sister made her profession of vows in 1948. She attended the College of St. Mary where she earned a bachelor of education degree, and Creighton University where she earned a master’s in education. She served as teacher and/or principal in Iowa at St. Ludmilla School, Cedar Rapids and St. Joseph in Chelsea; in Nebraska at Assumption in Dwight, St. Theresa’s and Assumption in Omaha; and in Kansas at Sacred Heart in Atwood. In 1980 Sister Christine became parish associate in St. Ludmilla in Cedar Rapids with a focus on the needs of the elderly and the ill. She volunteered at the St. Vincent de Paul Society Store and spent many years as docent for the Czech and Slovak Museum in Cedar Rapids.
Sister Christine served as a member of the Notre Dame leadership team and as a delegate to the congregations’ International Chapter held in the Czech Republic.
Currently Sr. Christine resides at Immanuel Fontenelle where she ministers through her prayer and by her presence to other residents.
Sr. Karen Rolenc, daughter of the late Joseph and Agnes Polak Rolenc, will celebrate sixty years of vows as a Notre Dame Sister on June 10 at 2 p.m. at the Notre Dame Chapel in Omaha. Born in Brainard, Nebraska, Sister attended Holy Trinity School until eighth grade, and graduated from Notre Dame Academy in Omaha. She attended Omaha Technical College and Metropolitan Community College, both in Omaha, where she earned an Associate degree in Applied Science/Early Childhood/Head Teacher/Director.
After professing vows in 1958, Sister performed housekeeping duties at the motherhouse and at Assumption Convent in Omaha; St. Ludmilla Convent in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and St. Wenceslaus Convent in Wahoo. She spent seven years as sale room supervisor at Our Lady of Lourdes in Porcupine, South Dakota. From 1973 to 2009 her ministry was in child care as supervisor at St. James Day Care, teacher at Child Saving Institute, supervisor of teachers at Creche Child Care, and coordinator of St. Richard’s Day care, all in Omaha. Currently Sister Karen is personal care coordinator for the Notre Dame Sisters living at Immanuel Fontenelle and Courtyard.
Celebrating 50 years of religious profession is Sister Rita Ostry, daughter of the deceased Joseph and Marie (Matulka) Ostry. Born in Surprise, Nebraska she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in elementary education and a Master’s Degree in social work, both from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
In her elementary education ministry she served in Nebraska at Howells Community Catholic School (1970-71), St. Adalbert’s in Omaha (1971-1977) and St. Mary’s School in David City (1977-1978). In South Dakota she worked on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation at Our Lady of Lourdes School in Porcupine (1978-84; 1989-2002; and 2010-2017) and at Red Cloud Indian School in Pine Ridge (1987-1989).
Sr. Rita served on the Notre Dame Provincial Council from 2002-2009 and currently serves on the Leadership Team for the community. Her commitment to peace and justice has impacted the lives of students and colleagues.
A native of Chelsea, Iowa, Sister Veronica Jo Posekany, has been a Notre Dame Sister for 50 years. The daughter of the late John and Mayme Posekany, Sr. Veronica Jo has served in the Omaha Archdiocese her entire career in the nursing field. She served at St. Vincent’s Home for the Aged and for over 45 years gave excellent care to patients at University Hospital and Nebraska Medicine as a registered nurse. She is known for her compassion and personal attention.
Currently serving as Health Care Coordinator for the Notre Dame Sisters, Sr. Veronica Jo continues her healing ministry. A celebration of her Golden Jubilee will take place on June 10, 2018 at the Notre Dame Chapel in Omaha.
The Notre Dame Sisters and Notre Dame Housing extend our gratitude to John and Wende Kotouc and American National Bank for their continued partnership with us. American National Bank provided a $21,000 challenge gift in support of our Proud Legacy. Bright Future. Campaign. We are grateful for their generosity and ongoing support! Thank you!
Sisters and NDH residents gathered on Tuesday, Nov. 7, to assemble 32 shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child. We extend a big thank you to Sr. Joan for leading the project!
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The Coalition on Human Trafficking’s Hotel-Motel Project receives $25,000 grant
The Coalition on Human Trafficking, Inc.’s Hotel-Motel Project continues to train personnel in hotels/motels to Realize that sex trafficking occurs in many such facilities; to Recognize signs of sex trafficking especially relevant to hotels/motels, and to Respond promptly and appropriately. We have now trained personnel in more than 100 hotels/motels in the Omaha Metro and Lincoln areas. Because of its success, the project is also spreading across the state and being requested beyond Nebraska.
We have great news to share! On Oct. 27, the Women’s Fund of Omaha awarded the Coalition with a $25,000 grant for the third consecutive year to continue our Hotel-Motel Project. Together we are making a difference; thank you for your prayers and financial support!
The Notre Dame Sisters are among the founding groups of the Coalition and continue to foster its growth as the Coalition has reorganized to an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Through this transition period, the Notre Dame Sisters, who have a position on the Coalition’s board of directors, are generously serving as a fiduciary for the Coalition and its funds at no cost.
The Coalition on Human Trafficking, Inc.’s Hotel-Motel Project continues to train personnel in hotels/motels to Realize that sex trafficking occurs in many such facilities; to Recognize signs of sex trafficking especially relevant to hotels/motels, and to Respond promptly and appropriately. We have now trained personnel in more than 100 hotels/motels in the Omaha Metro and Lincoln areas. Because of its success, the project is also spreading across the state and being requested beyond Nebraska.
We have great news to share! On Oct. 27, the Women’s Fund of Omaha awarded the Coalition with a $25,000 grant for the third consecutive year to continue our Hotel-Motel Project. Together we are making a difference; thank you for your prayers and financial support!
The Notre Dame Sisters are among the founding groups of the Coalition and continue to foster its growth as the Coalition has reorganized to an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Through this transition period, the Notre Dame Sisters, who have a position on the Coalition’s board of directors, are generously serving as a fiduciary for the Coalition and its funds at no cost.
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Notre Dame Sisters
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