A Visit to Dorothy Day House When the Dorothy Day House of Hospitality opened on Belmont Avenue in 2009, it was thought a small amount of folks may need its service. That hasn’t been the case. With meals Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and lunch for those receiving showers Wednesday afternoons, dozens of guests visit the Dorothy Day house each week. Pre-COVID, there were sometimes more than 100 guests each dinner. We and our Associates, along with the Sisters of the Humility of Mary and local lay persons, continue to collaborate at the house. Sister Ann McManamon, HM, who served as director from early on until spring of this year, did a wonderful job of organizing meals from her community’s Associates, ours, and local groups, restaurants and individuals. A recent Wednesday preparing dinner at the Dorothy Day House. From left are Ursuline Associates Barb, Aimee, Cindy, Jim, Larry, Linda, Dan and Sister Kathleen McCarragher. Sister Kathleen calls bingo on Wednesday afternoons. The house is now led by a two-member team, comprising Ursuline Associate Dan Wakefield and Valeria Gonvalves. It offers not only meals, showers, and monthly roundtable discussions on social concerns, but also the opportunity for guests to relax, feel safe, and as one man recently told Ursuline Associate Ruthanne, “Be treated like a human.” Our founder, St. Angela Merici, taught us to care for the poor of pocket and spirit. As Christ himself stated, “Whatsoever you do for the least of my brothers, you do unto me.” Dorothy Day was an American who founded the Catholic Worker movement. At a young age, after her family suffered tragedy and became poor, she learned first-hand how hard life can be for those in need – not just from the lack of necessities or frills, but from the humiliation the poor can endure.
Immediate Job Openings Ursuline Sisters Mission has immediate openings for a full-time housekeeper and part-time cook for the Motherhouse and a part-time swim instructor for the Ursuline Education & Wellness Center. Motherhouse Housekeeper: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. $14.50 per hour. Motherhouse Cook: Institutional cook position. Will work a flex schedule preparing lunch, dinner and dessert items for approximately 20 people. Will be required to prepare one meal on occasional holidays. One week the cook works Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The next week the days and hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. $14.75 per hour. Motherhouse Maintenance person: Will work full time, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Opportunity for advancement. Water Aerobics Instructor: Will teach 55-minute classes Thursdays at 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. Will have the option to teach two additional classes Must be certified to teach water aerobics or certified to teach SilverSneakers water aerobics classes. Compensation is based on level of certification. To apply, call Linda at 330-792-7636.
2023 Guided labyrinth walks The Ursuline Education & Wellness Center, 4280 Shields Rd., soon begins its 13th year of guided labyrinth walks. While the labyrinth is open year-round, themed and guided labyrinth walks are offered by trained facilitators during the warm-weather season. Each walk is led by a different facilitator, either an Ursuline Sister or Associate, with the meditation centering on a related theme. This year’s overarching theme is compassion, a virtue central to the programs of Ursuline Sisters Mission. All persons of faith are invited to participate in these free, weather-permitting events. Walks generally take 20 minutes to ½ hour. This year’s schedule is:Sun., May 21, 2 p.m. : Compassion as a Way of LifeThurs., June 15, 6:30 p.m.: Compassion for One's SelfThurs., July 20, 6:30 p.m.: Compassion for God's CreationThurs., Aug. 17, 6:30 p.m.: Compassion for FamilyThurs., Sept. 21, 6:30 p.m.: Compassion for the MarginalizedSun., Oct. 15, 2 p.m.: Compassion for the JourneyThe labyrinth is open dawn to dusk for all persons of faith. There’s no cost to use the labyrinth, which is accessible for different physical abilities and offers ample parking.Printed guides are provided at the Labyrinth’s entrance giving suggestions for following the path, but there is no right or wrong way to experience the sacred walk. For more information on our labyrinth, visit our YouTube Channel (includes a virtual walk) or visit ursulinewellness.org. Here's a paper labyrinth you can print and follow with your finger. Our labyrinth is modeled after this famous one. Paper-labyrinthDownload
Christ is risen – Alleluia! Photo by Ian Beckley Easter morning is full of images -- the empty tomb, the voice of angels, Mary's encounter with Jesus -- so rich, so full, and so basic to who we are as Christians. Jesus is risen. Death could not hold him. And if it couldn't hold him, it can't hold us. All that Jesus said about life and death wasn't really understood by his disciples, until it was made real in that empty tomb and encounter in the garden. And every Easter, we get to share in it. We share in the promises made to the Children of Israel and to the entire world through the Prophets. We share in the promises made to the disciples and to all who listened to Jesus as he walked towards his death upon a cross. What is this Easter? It's God's promise of a new day. It's God's promise of a new life. It's God's promise of a new world coming to pass in our midst. Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. This is an excerpt of a reflection written by Sister Therese Ann Rich in 2011.
Living Holy Lives When St. Angela Merici founded the Ursulines in 1535, she promised, “You’ll witness wonderful things if you direct all to the praise and glory of God.” The wisdom of her words proves true in the 21st century! Our Sisters are engaged in gospel service with wonderful people around the Mahoning Valley. Several work with families in the diocese. Sister Mary Alyce Koval ministers at St. Luke and St. Charles parishes, Sister Janice Kusick at St. Angela Merici Parish, Sister Martha Reed at St. Columba Parish Cathedral, and Sister Regina Rogers at St. Edward Parish, all in Youngstown. Other Sisters are active with our major ministries. Sister Patricia McNicholas serves as donor relations director for all of Ursuline Sisters Mission. Sister Norma Raupple leads our Immigrant Outreach program and works closely with volunteers and Associate formation. Sisters Carole Suhar and Darla Jean Vogelsang work with women in our Immigrant Outreach program as well. Sister Nancy Dawson helped 13 incarcerated men become Catholics through our Prison Ministry. Still others maintain their own ministries. Sister Dorothy Kundracik operates our Altar Bread Ministry. Sisters Bridget Nolan and Diane Toth bring food and friendship to seniors through Meals on Wheels. Sister Marie Maravola brightens lives as a pastoral minister at the Antonine Village in North Jackson. Sister Mary McCormick educates the next generation of faith leaders as a professor and academic dean at St. Mary’s Seminary and Graduate School of Theology in Cleveland. Many more are active in ministries offered from the Motherhouse. Sister Pauline Dalpe is a mental health counselor. Sister Nancy DiCola oversees some of our archiving efforts. Sister Elizabeth Anne Freidhoff keeps us all going as Community Secretary. Sister Mary Ann Diersing helps in our administrative office. Sister Jan Gier is a friendly face and voice to visitors at our Motherhouse front desk. Sister Eileen Kernan offers spiritual direction at home and in the field. She, along with Sisters Kathleen McCarragher and Marlene LoGrasso, also began a “Nuns & Nones” group in 2022. Sister Kathleen Minchin continues to serve with our HIV/AIDS Café. Sister Nancy Pawlen ministers with our Education & Wellness programs, our Volunteer Outreach Ministry, and with St. Rose Parish, Girard. Sister Marilyn Hoover earned a gold medal for the 90+ age group when walking the 5k of our Nun Run. Sister Charlotte Italiano keeps in touch with contacts at Holy Family and St. Joseph the Provider schools. Sisters Mary Ann Coz and Helen Nordick are active with our Prayer Ministry. We keep all of you in our prayers, and hope you’ll keep us in yours as well. From left, front row, are Sisters Mary Ann Coz, Marilyn Hoover, Nancy Dawson, Helen Nordick, Diane Toth, Jan Gier, Marlene LoGrasso, and Charlotte Italiano. Middle row are Sisters Eileen Kernan, Marie Maravola, Bridget Nolan, Kathleen Minchin, Martha Reed, Kathleen McCarragher, Regina Rogers, Elizabeth Anne Freidhoff, Nancy Pawlen and Mary McCormick. Back row are Sisters Darla Jean Vogelsang, Pauline Dalpe, Janice Kusick, Nancy DiCola, Dorothy Kundracik, Patricia McNicholas, Norma Raupple, Mary Ann Diersing, Carole Suhar and Mary Alyce Koval.
Grant Helps Ursuline Sisters Mission Ursuline Sisters Mission has received a $25,000 grant from the estate of Timothy M. Yovich of Youngstown, who died in May. Rick Cross with USM Rep. Donna Bellino The donation was presented by Rick Cross, the executor of Yovich’s estate and his friend since childhood. “I am very proud to honor Tim’s legacy by ensuring that his final wishes are being carried out,” Cross said. “The work of the Ursuline Sisters Mission was important to Tim, and that is why he remembered them in his will. His legacy continues through his philanthropy.” Additionally, Yovich requested that memorial tributes in his honor be made to the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown. “We are so grateful for the generosity of all of our donors, and a bequest like Mr. Yovich’s allows us to continue the important work he valued in his lifetime,” said Brigid Kennedy, president and CEO of Ursuline Sisters Mission. “What a legacy he has left Ursuline Sisters Mission and our community!” Ursuline Sisters Mission enhances and develops support for the ministries sponsored by and reflecting the charism of the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown to provide long-term sustainability and gospel service to the community. Ursuline Sisters Mission is gospel service poured out into the world by the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown and their ministries.
World AIDS Day Ursuline Sisters Mission is sponsoring a Red Ribbon Display in downtown Youngstown, Ohio to honor the roughly 800 people in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties living with HIV as part of local commemorations for World AIDS Day. Each of the 80 ribbons on Federal Square represents 10 people. Thurs., Dec. 1, 2022, World AIDS Day, the public is invited to an event at that location beginning at 4:15 p.m. Rev. Joseph Boyd of the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Youngstown will lead the group in prayer, followed by remarks from Mayor Jamael Tito Brown on the work to end HIV and overcome the stigma experienced by those touched by the epidemic. Also speaking will be Laura McCulty Stepp, Ursuline Sisters HIV/AIDS Ministry director, Erin Bishop, Youngstown Health commissioner, and Tim Bortner, founder and president of Full Spectrum Community Outreach. Shelley Turner of Equitas Health and Bortner will lead “A Walk of Remembrance” to Wean Park, where Full Spectrum Community Outreach will host a candlelight vigil to remember those who we have lost to the disease. Equitas Health also will provide warm drinks and snacks from Mocha House. The Premier Bank Tower Clock, Market Street Bridge and the walkway from Wean Park to the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheater will be lit in red that day in support of World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day was established in 1988 to reflect on the lives lost to HIV/AIDS, and to honor the more than 38 million people worldwide living with HIV.
Making Merry! We hope you’re experiencing the Christmas Spirit everywhere you go!We are at all of our Ursuline Sisters Mission ministry sites.Our Sisters, Associates and employees made a short video to share their cheer with you!
National Vocation Awareness Week: Is God Calling You? While we are to always pray for and encourage vocations to religious life, Vocation Awareness Week highlights this in an even greater way. This annual event affords us a specific time to reflect on how as individuals and as a community we are promoting the call to religious life. Do you: Have an ability to help others and to relate well with peers and adults. Have a growing relationship with God that is demonstrated through prayer, service to others, and involvement in parish ministry. Have a gift of leadership that draws others in and promotes a spirit of collaborative teamwork which affirms and challenges. Have courage to take a stand to “do the right thing”, even when it is not popular. Have a thirst to know Christ and wants to bring His teachings to the world Witness to others by word, action and deed on how to live as a disciple of Christ. Have a concern for issues that affect others, such as social justice and peace. Have a willingness to serve to help right these issues. Have good people skills, live with a sense of hope and joy, and possesses a good sense of humor. The call to religious life, the call to be a nun, is always marked by a desire to serve God and God’s people, to care for the needy and to bring people to experience God’s love. But, since ministry is a part of every vocation, service is not the distinguishing characteristic of a call to consecrated life as a member of a religious community. The uniqueness of the call to be a nun, the call to religious life is living the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience in community. The essential service of the religious is to witness to all the faithful that each of us is called to treat things, persons and our own self with respect and as ultimately belonging to God. At the heart of the call to religious life is a desire to give oneself in love to God in a way so total that the pursuit of union with God makes it impossible for anything or anyone to be more central. One becomes unavailable for marriage. If you believe you are being called to be a nun, give us a call [330. 261.4729] and we can help you discern God’s call.
‘It’s All Good!’ Sister Martha wears many hats these days. All have been affected uniquely by COVID-19. She’s just returned to work with differently-abled adults. Her client is on the autism spectrum, hearing impaired, legally blind and nonverbal. “I was excited to be with my client, and she was excited to be with me,” Sister Martha says of their summer reunion. “When she heard my voice, her face lit up and she gave me a hug.” Sister Martha hadn’t seen her for almost a year-and-a-half because of COVID. “I make sure she gets her meds, we cook dinner together, we clean up together and enjoy each other’s company,” Sister Martha says. “I’m teaching her how to get her own drink of water.” This aspect of Sister Martha’s ministry is through Iron & String Life Enhancement, or ISLE, a nonprofit based in Youngstown. She works one shift a week with the residential program. Meanwhile, Sister Martha also is the pastoral minister and director of religious education for St. Columba Cathedral Parish in Youngstown. Sister Martha with a CCD gathering shortly before COVID In that ministry she’s helping parishioners find normalcy in our adjusted reality. “We have young servers again in Mass. We have precautions like hand sanitizers around the church. We ask that if parishioners don’t want to keep their bulletins they dispose of them. “Some people are still doing their own distancing. With CCD, we’re no longer doing Zoom, but we’re moving from a weekly meeting to once a month with the whole family — Growing in Faith Together.” St. Columba CCD had great attendance during the pandemic, she notes, because some families who had impediments to coming in person found it convenient to do so online. “I welcome everyone with open arms,” she says, demonstrating with her arms wide and a smile to match on her face, but noting it’s not safe to resume hugging yet. “I welcome parishioners returning to Mass by name. We feel God’s love by loving our neighbors.” Loving her neighbors is another way Sister Martha ministers. She, Sister Mary Alyce Koval and four other traditionally-abled friends founded a bible study group for people different abilities called The Five Saints (for saints Christine, Columba, Luke, Nicholas and Patrick). Members of The Five Saints bible study group—Jim Shagla, Tim Gilboy, Sister Martha Reed and Jimmy Sutman “We need to be open as a church including people with disabilities and all abilities to come and pray together,” she observes. With about 20 members including the core team, it began meeting at the Cathedral a couple years back. Members share scripture, prayer and a small snack one day a month. Meetings moved online during the height of the pandemic, but the group’s back to gathering — now at the nearby ISLE location. “We all have a desire to experience God’s love through relationships, prayer, liturgy, and most importantly, one another,” she posits. Sister Martha has a special place in her heart for adults with different abilities. She wasn’t identified as having dyslexia until 5th grade and didn’t learn how to read well until college. And speaking of college, Sister Martha also is pursuing her second master’s degree. In her academic career, she earned a bachelor of science in Pre K Education, a master’s in Special Education, and now is working towards a master’s in pastoral ministry through Loyola University in New Orleans. A local group pursuing the degree had been meeting for classes with a facilitator. But when the pandemic started, they weren’t allowed to meet traditionally. “We got permission to meet by Zoom, but now we’re two semesters behind. We’re going to graduate together in May of 2023,” she says, noting they’re all now studying individually in the online portion of their courses. While the ups and downs brought by the pandemic can be difficult, Sister Martha’s faith keeps her positive. “Julian of Norwich has a famous quote – ‘And all shall be well.’ I’ve changed it a bit. My motto is, ‘It’s all good.’ God equals love,” she says. “Be patient with one another and listen to where God is leading us.” Sister Martha refers to the second counsel of St. Angela Merici, founder of the Ursulines in 1535, for more direction. “With things going on in our world today, not only the pandemic but with racism and violence, we all need to remember to be gentle with each other and show compassion,” she says. “That’s what I’m trying to do, just listening and praying with others. Yes, it’s easier to sit with some, but we’re called to sit with each other.”
A Great Team From Sister Norma Raupple: We’re having a great summer with children in our Beatitude House Immigrant Outreach program. Helping me are Jenne and Marta, who’ve been mentoring children for more than five years. Jenne is now employed as the Child Wellness Coordinator for Beatitude House and Marta just completed a year with AmeriCorps, serving through Ursuline Ministries. Marta & JenneThe kids enjoying the Lily Pond at Mill Creek Metroparks Their time and presence with children throughout the summer at Mill Creek MetroParks, GROW Camp at Villa Maria and the public library has made a huge difference. Working with community partner the YBI, or Youngstown Business Incubator, has been a highlight. The children were taught how to create and implement a business plan for selling lemonade. A YBI expert teaches the kids about running their own business “Something that stood out to me about the Lemonade Day work the kids were doing was how enthusiastic they were to work together,” Marta says. “The excitement about creating something that was their own product and collaborating to make it possible was awesome to see. “It has definitely been one of the best summers for our kiddos!” she continues. “I am so excited for them to see their planning come to fruition!” Jenne was impressed with the children’s hard work. “The children went through the process of how to be an entrepreneur. They learned about setting goals, saving money, giving back to their community, marketing, advertising, product testing, and how to sell their goods,” she reports. “Through collaboration the children worked in groups and pairs to create their own lemonade and name for their business.” You can visit our lemonade stand Fri., Aug. 6 from 11 a.m-noon at the Eugenia Atkinson Recreation Center 903 Otis St., Youngstown, Ohio 44510 If you’d like to volunteer with our children’s program, contact Jenne at [email protected].
Fighting Poverty with Education For nearly 150 years, the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown have been dedicated to the education of women, men and children. The creation of the Ursuline Sisters Scholars Program grew out of a clear need to address people living in poverty. It was painfully apparent that those who did not pursue a higher education found themselves restricted to low-wage jobs with insufficient wages and few opportunities for advancement. There was no better advocate for the poor than Sister Jerome Corcoran. She felt strongly that the key to breaking the cycle of poverty was to earn an education. She knew an advanced education equates to higher wages, better healthcare outcomes, an increased sense of pride in self, more stable families, and in turn, a more solid community. It was through her hard work and dedication that the Ursuline Sisters Scholars program was born. Sister Jerome was amazingly well-educated in her own right. She began her educational journey at St. Columba Elementary School and was a 1934 graduate of Ursuline High School. She attended St. John College, Cleveland, earned a BA in English from Sisters College at the Catholic University of America in 1942. She then earned an MA in English from Catholic University and a Ph. D. in Education from Western Reserve University in Cleveland in 1952. Throughout 79 years of active ministry, Sister Jerome dedicated her life to advocating for the poor through education. In 1967, Sister Jerome conducted GED classes in Youngstown enabling people to earn a high school diploma. In 1976, she began Millcreek Children’s Center for preschool education in the city of Youngstown. In 1998, Sister Jerome, along with Sister Mary Dunn and the Board of Developing Potential, Inc. began a charter school, Youngstown Community School. Sister Jerome retired from the Millcreek Children’s Center in 2012. In 2013, the year after she retired, she kept going and created what would become the Ursuline Sisters Scholar’s program. Believing everyone deserve access to a quality education to achieve a better and brighter future, Ursuline Sisters Scholars, a program of our Beatitude House ministry, helps college students from low-income families achieve their academic aspirations through mentorship and financial assistance for school-related living expenses. The goal is to break the cycle of poverty through education and help underprivileged adults overcome everyday challenges. In 2020 alone, the Ursuline Sisters Scholars program served 54 students, 16 of which reached graduation (61% of whom were single parents). 55 students have been served so far in 2021. In the past 3 years (2018-2021) a total of 94 students have been served. The program awarded three scholarships for the Fall 2020 semester. Tymira received $1,000 from the Beeghly Fund for Scholars. She earned her bachelor’s degree in social work at Ursuline College, and graduated during the Spring 2021 semester. Ashlee received $1,000 from the Boardman Rotary Fund for Scholars and is currently working on her associate degree in occupational therapy at Kent Trumbull. Nasheema received $1,000 from the Kennedy Fund for Scholars. She graduated from Trumbull Career & Technical Center with her license in practical nursing and will use this scholarship to further her education at Cuyahoga Community College and earn her associate of applied science degree in nursing. Three scholarships were awarded for the Spring 2021 Semester. Rasha received $1,000 from the Comerford Fund for Scholars and is studying Health Information Management Eastern Gateway Community College. Kathryn received $1,000 from the Boardman Rotary and is working on her bachelor’s degree in social work at Youngstown State University. Lastly, Ashlee received $500 from Ursuline Sisters Fund for Scholars and is working on her associate degree in occupational therapy at Kent Ashtabula. The program had three graduates during the Fall 2020 semester. Luz graduated from Mercy in the College of Nursing. Theodora earned a degree from Youngstown State University in Hospitality Management, and Beth earned a degree in Integrative Studies from Kent State Ashtabula. There are five students who graduated or are graduating between May-July 2021. Chondia and Kara will graduate from Choffin in Licensed Practical Nursing. Amanda will graduate from Kent State Ashtabula with a degree in Human Services. Yasmeen will earn a degree in Paralegal Studies from Eastern Gateway Community College, and Tymira will graduate from Ursuline College with a degree in Social Work. We’re proud of all our graduates, and thankful to Sister Jerome for her passionate work to raise people up through education. What started with 12 students in 2013 has grown into a hugely successful program with an 80% success rate helping so many to break the cycle of poverty. Donations to this program to continue Sister Jerome’s work can be made by contacting Beatitude House.
Sisters on the Frontlines Grants, Part II For a second time, the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown were chosen for Sisters on the Frontlines grants. The grants were administered by Catholic Extension, based in Chicago.Here’s how our Sisters helped people especially suffering during the pandemic: Sister Martha Reed, Pastoral Minister and Director of Religious Education for The Cathedral of St. Columba Parish, Youngstown COVID-19 has hit some families harder than others. Such is the case for a couple with three teenagers from St. Columba Parish, near the heart of downtown Youngstown. On Jan. 2, the father was hospitalized because he’d contracted COVID-19; by Valentine’s Day, he needed a double lung transplant to survive. “The doctors described his lungs as being like shattered glass after COVID ravished them,” Sister Martha describes. “My heart aches for them. They’re a great family of great faith.” Dad is still recovering in a hospital in Columbus, more than three hours’ drive from the family home in Youngstown. Mom and the teenagers travel to Columbus as often as possible. Not only has the father been unable to contribute to the household income during this time, doctors say it will be quite some time before he’ll be able to work. Meanwhile, bills have accumulated. Sister Martha used her $1,000 to purchase gasoline and food gift cards for the family, so that affording to visit dad and affording groceries will be two less concerns for a short time. “It humbles me to be able to help this family through this grant from Catholic Extension,” Sister Martha says. Sister Regina Rogers, Pastoral Associate for St. Edward Parish, Youngstown Sister Regina Rogers ministers at a parish in the heart of a poverty-stricken neighborhood on the city’s north side. There, she’s encountered “Mary,” a single mother of two who works in housekeeping in the hospitality industry, one of the hardest hit from COVID-19. “She has touched my heart deeply,” Sister Regina states. “In her I see the struggles of a single parent with two young children who wants to better her life,” she continues, “but keeps running into obstacles.” Mary is the victim of a so-called “Catch 22,” Sister Regina says. “What a bind. If she doesn’t go to work, she doesn’t get paid, but if she doesn’t have child care –which she hasn’t had for over a year because of the pandemic — she can’t go to work,” Sister Regina explains. “It is a blatant example of the negative effects of being poor.” Sister Regina is very grateful for the $1,000 Sisters on the Frontlines grant from Catholic Extension, which she used to purchase gift cards for food and gas. This will enable Mary to divert the money she earmarked for feeding her family and traveling to and from work to retain child care. “Hopefully, the gift cards can help her get ahead. I only wish that people who make the rules could meet her and talk with her,” Sister Regina observes. “She is truly an example of faith and perseverance. She is the face of the working poor for me.” Sister Patricia McNicholas, Donor Relations Dir. of our Beatitude House ministry, Youngstown Sister Patricia is helping “Angela,” a young mother of two who suffered quite a blow during the pandemic. For six years, Angela worked for minimum wage at a gas station, never receiving a raise. When the owner applied for and received CARES act funding, she inquired when employees would benefit. The owner told her it was all for him, fired her and falsely accused her of theft. Her unemployment was held up. The severe loss of income left her and her children homeless and in serious debt. Sister Patricia used her $1,000 to help cover back utility bills so that Angela has the ability to get housing. Further, Sister Patricia and the staff of Beatitude House arranged for Angela and her children to move into permanent housing June 1. This was made possible because of the Sisters on the Frontlines grant from Catholic Extension. “This will give them a stable home,” a grateful Sister Patricia notes. “In addition, it will give her young children a place where they can get outside and play.” Sister Kathleen McCarragher, volunteer minister at Mahoning County St. Vincent de Paul Society Dining Hall and Food Pantry, Youngstown Sister Kathleen, her brother and sister-in-law and father have long been volunteers with the Mahoning County St. Vincent de Paul society, located in downtown Youngstown. According to census data, Youngstown has the 2nd highest poverty rate in the nation, with more than half its children living in poverty, and a significant elderly population. Further, the St. Vincent de Paul location is situated near the campus of Youngstown State University and therefore accessed by hungry students. During the pandemic, the dining hall has distributed packaged meals/food supplies outdoors. Ordinarily, volunteers and parishes contribute to stocking its shelves and supplying food. Unfortunately, the pandemic has resulted in a decrease in those donations, while the need by guests, as well as the number of guests, greatly increased. Sister Kathleen used her $1,000 grant to purchase grocery items. “I used the grant money to purchase enough food, with items such as crackers, peanut butter and canned foods, to fill 50 boxes of food that the Mahoning County St. Vincent dePaul Food Pantry distributed to those in need in our area,” Sister Kathleen says. “The funds also allowed me to buy ground beef and other foods for the Dining Hall,” she continues. “The Dining Hall serves hot meals to an average of 200 people a day.” The experience meant a great deal to Sister Kathleen on a personal level, she says. Sister Kathleen Minchin, Director Emeritus of our Ursuline Sisters HIV/AIDS Ministry, Youngstown Nearly 80% of the individuals served in the HIV/AIDS Ministry are living in poverty. For many of them, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused even more hardships and challenges. Many clients in our ministry work in the food service and hospitality industries. Because of the COVID pandemic, they either lost their jobs or had reduced hours. This issue, along with children being at home more because of remote schooling and limited children’s programming, has led to an increase in food needs for clients. Sister Kathleen used her $1,000 Sisters on the Frontlines grant from Catholic Extension to purchase items for our food and personal goods pantries. Items purchased include pasta and sauce, cereal, and canned stew, vegetables and fruit. The grant also was used to purchase such items as soap, cleaners, toilet paper and paper towels. “Receiving this grant money has allowed us to provide emergency food assistance for those in need, and it has helped to alleviate some stress in their lives,” Sister Kathleen states. “As Ursuline Sisters, we strive to meet the needs of the times,” she continues. “During these exceptional times, this funding allowed us to meet these needs with hospitality, respect, and compassion for those adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.” Sister Mary Alyce Koval, Parish Leader for St. Luke Parish, Boardman St. Luke’s Social Concerns Committee offers a monthly pantry distribution to meet needs not covered by the SNAP program. It offers such non-perishable and personal care items as toilet paper, paper towels, laundry soap, etc. The pantry has seen a great increase in need since March 2020. Not only does the pantry have new visitors, the need increased for some people because households had to combine due to financial woes caused by the pandemic. St. Luke’s pantry is wholly funded through the generosity of parishioners, who themselves have unfortunately suffered financial difficulties because of COVID-19. “Thanks to the Sisters on the Frontlines grant from Catholic Extension, there are 50 families in our community who received their usual monthly bag of paper products and personal care items,” Sister Mary Alyce states. “But in addition, this month they were surprised with ‘bonus’ gifts of an extra stick of deodorant, tooth brushes and toothpaste, shower gel and sunscreen.” Sister Mary Alyce notes that many of us take the ability to purchase these items for granted, especially something like sunscreen with summer approaching, but the families who visit her parish’s pantry don’t have that option and come to St. Luke’s out of necessity. “These families received these items as a gift,” she says. “I am grateful for this opportunity.” Sister Norma Raupple, Director of the Beatitude House Immigrant Outreach Program, Youngstown The mission of Beatitude House is to help create homes, provide educational opportunities and foster healthy families. As director of its Immigrant Outreach Program, Sister Norma Raupple has “the privilege of accompanying immigrant families in their journey toward a better life.” These families come from countries around the world, including from Asia and the Middle East, but mostly from Spanish-speaking countries in South and Central America. Most live in poverty. Many work low-paying jobs in the food service, landscaping and hospitality industries. They didn’t have enough hours before COVID struck to qualify for unemployment during pandemic layoffs, and even though they’re returning to work, they’re earning very little. “The laundry detergent and cleaning supplies I was able to purchase with this grant definitely makes their daily lives manageable and enjoyable,” Sister Norma observes. “The purchases help about 20 families with children.” Sister Norma extends her gratitude to Catholic Extension for how the $1,000 Sisters on the Frontlines grant allowed her to help these families. View a short video of how we administered the first round of grants.
The God Quest Sister Mary McCormick, our General Superior, is also an Academic Dean and a Professor of Systematic Theology at St. Mary Seminary and Graduate School of Theology in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. She offered this talk to a group of young women who minster with us and are formalizing their relationship with our religious community by becoming Ursuline Associates: https://tinyurl.com/TheGodQuest
Obituary for Sister Jerome Corcoran Sister Jerome Corcoran, OSU, a long-time leader in education in the city of Youngstown and advocate for the poor, died on Sunday June 6, 2021 at the Ursuline Motherhouse after complications from a fall two weeks prior. She was 105. Irene M. Corcoran was born on April 21, 1916 in Chicago, the daughter of Austin J. and Rose McDonnell Corcoran, who were immigrants from Ireland. Her family moved to Youngstown in 1923. She entered the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown on February 22, 1935 and made her perpetual profession on August 24, 1940. She was educated at St. Columba Elementary School and was a 1934 graduate of Ursuline High School. She attended St. John College, Cleveland, and earned a BA in English from Sisters College at the Catholic University of America in 1942. She went on to earn an MA in English from Catholic University and a Ph. D. in Education from Western Reserve University in Cleveland in 1952. In over 78 years of active ministry, Sister Jerome held a variety of roles. She taught at St. Columba, St. Nicholas, Struthers, St. Rose, Girard, and Ursuline High schools. In addition, she taught various courses at Youngstown State University, The Catholic University of America, the University of Dayton, and Marquette University. She served as a supervisor of education for the Diocese of Youngstown from 1953-1972. In 1961 she published The Catholic Elementary Principal, which was used widely across the country. She also served on the Leadership Team of the Ursuline Sisters from 1960-1972. During those years Sister Jerome helped plan the construction of the Ursuline Motherhouse in Canfield and pay off the mortgage. Beginning in 1967, Sister Jerome conducted GED classes in Youngstown, enabling people to earn a high school diploma. In 1976, she began the Millcreek Children’s Center for preschool education in the city of Youngstown, and in 1993, opened a new facility on Market Street. In 1998, Sister Jerome, along with Sister Mary Dunn and the Board of Developing Potential, Inc. began a charter school, Youngstown Community School. Sister Jerome retired from Millcreek Children’s Center in 2012. Sister Jerome was active in educational and civic causes, including Leadership Mahoning Valley, NAACP, and was a judge for the Youngstown Vindicator Spelling Bee for over twenty years. Sister Jerome received numerous awards over the years, including the Sargent Shriver Anti-Poverty Remedial Reading Award, B’nai B’rith Woman of the Year, Mahoning County Bar Association Annual Award, AOH Woman of the Year, Ursuline High School Alumna of the Year, Salvation Army Others Award, the Rotary Club Paul Harris Award, Ohio Pioneer in Education Award, and the Chamber of Conference William G. Lyden Spirit of the Valley Award. The Diocese of Youngstown awarded her Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Honors. In 2016, at the age of 100, Sister Jerome was inducted into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame. Sister Jerome leaves her Sisters in community and numerous cousins and close friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Joseph. The Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Michael Parish, Canfield, on Friday, June 11 at 4 pm. Calling hours will be on Thursday, June 10 at the Ursuline Motherhouse, 4250 Shields Rd., Canfield, from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. Those who plan to come to the calling hours at the Motherhouse must wear a face mask and show proof of vaccination. Calling hours will also precede the funeral at St. Michael Parish, from 2 p.m. until 3:45 p.m. Private interment services will be at Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements were made by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown. Checks can be mailed to The Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown, 4250 Shields Rd., Canfield, Ohio, 44406. All proceeds will be used to continue the mission and ministries to which Sister Jerome dedicated her life – education and care for the poor. Click the following link to read more about one of these ministries that she started, Ursuline Sisters Scholars.
The Ursulines Mourn the Death of Sister Jerome Sister Jerome Corcoran The Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown mourn the death of Sister Jerome Corcoran. She died Sunday, June 6, 2021 at the Ursuline Motherhouse in Canfield, Ohio. She was very peaceful. The Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown have been surrounding her with prayer for the last two weeks. We trust she is now rejoicing with all the Holy Ones and her Loving God. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Sister Mary Alyce Affirmed at St. Luke’s Youngstown Diocese Bishop David Bonnar affirmed our Sister Mary Alyce Koval as Parish Leader at St. Luke Parish in Boardman April 25. Sister Mary Alyce has served the parish in that role since August 2017. “My mission here is to invite the parishioners to live out their Baptismal call to service to all God’s people as an outgrowth of their worship experiences each week”, she says. There are five parish leaders who serve in lieu of resident pastors in the diocese. Priests still celebrate Masses, funerals and sacraments at those parishes. Sister Mary Alyce coordinates these services at St. Luke’s. Additionally, she oversees all pastoral staff. Sister Mary Alyce is a member of the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown Leadership Team. She served as the education director for Beatitude House from 2009-2017. Prior to that, Sister Mary Alyce ministered in school administration, serving as a principal first at St. Joseph School in Austintown, followed by St. Rose School, Girard, then at St. Charles School, Boardman. She also ministered as an educator at several elementary schools in the Diocese, including St. Luke’s. Sister Mary Alyce also is active in the greater community. A graduate of Ursuline High School, Youngstown, Sister Mary Alyce earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Youngstown State University, a Master of Science in Educational Administration from the University of Dayton and a Master of Arts in Ministry from Ursuline College, Cleveland. She also holds several professional certifications. “After entering the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown following graduation, it didn’t take long to realize that there were more doors to new adventures in my life than I could ever imagine,” Sister Mary Alyce has said. “My heart is filled with gratitude.”
Reflecting, Respecting, Rejoicing Dear Friends of the Ursulines, It has been a full year since we entered into the new world of Covid-awareness. In March 2020 we first began to work from home, watch Mass on TV or via live-stream, stay home more, have virtual meetings and celebrations with families and friends outside or online. What a year it has been! Now in March 2021 we seem to be moving in a positivedirection. New cases of Covid are down and more peoplehave access to the vaccine. We also have the regular signs ofspring – more hours of daylight, warmer weather, and thebeginning signs of green in our yards and on the edges of trees. If nothing else, this past year has taught all of us to look again at every aspect of our lives. We have learned to adapt to changing situations and found ways to innovate that have proved valuable. “Looking again” is another way to speak of “respect.” When we offer respect to a person, we look again at one’s life, we see from another perspective. Respect is one of the core values of the Ursuline mission. It is rooted in the intrinsic dignity of the human person. That the Creator fashioned us in God’s own image and likeness points to the esteem with which we hold each person. It also seems to me that “looking again” is one of the practices of Lent. Each year the Church calls us to examine our lives, to adapt to the situation in which we find ourselves, and to see life from the perspective of the resurrection of Jesus. As we move to the Easter season we pray in thanksgiving for God’s promise of new life. We trust that the resurrection of Jesus will be our destiny. And we rejoice in the ways that God’s life here on earth adapts to the situations presented to us. May God be with you and those you love in the days of Easter. Sincerely in Christ,Sister Mary McCormick, OSUGeneral Superior
World Day for Consecrated Life Feb. 2 is the World Day for Consecrated Life The following is taken from the National Religious Vocation Conference: In 1997, Pope Saint John Paul II instituted a day of prayer for women and men in consecrated life. This celebration is attached to the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2nd. This Feast is also known as Candlemas Day; the day on which candles are blessed symbolizing Christ who is the light of the world. So too, those in consecrated life are called to reflect the light of Jesus Christ to all peoples. The celebration of World Day for Consecrated Life is transferred to the following Sunday in order to highlight the gift of consecrated persons for the whole Church. World Day for Consecrated Life is celebrated on February 2nd however, it is observed in parishes on the Sunday after February 2nd. In 2021, this day will be celebrated in parishes February 6-7, 2021. “This then is the consecrated life: praise which gives joy to God’s people, prophetic vision that reveals what counts. Consecrated life is not about survival, it is not about preparing ourselves for ars bene moriendi: this is the temptation of our days, in the face of declining vocations. No, it is not about survival, but new life. “But… there are only a few of us…” – it’s about new life. It is a living encounter with the Lord in his people. It is a call to the faithful obedience of daily life and to the unexpected surprises from the Spirit. It is a vision of what we need to embrace in order to experience joy: Jesus” –Pope Francis, WDCL Homily on February 2, 2019
‘Remembering the Churchwomen in El Salvador 40 Years Later’ ‘Remembering the Churchwomen in El Salvador 40 Years Later’ The Sisters of Charity Foundation of Cleveland has a wonderful podcast called Generative Spirits: Conversations with Catholic Sisters. The most recent episode was especially amazing — Remembering the Churchwomen in El Salvador 40 Years Later. If you aren’t familiar with this ugly event in human history, three Catholic nuns and a laywoman were abducted, tortured and murdered for doing what nuns do — helping people in need. Hosts Margaret Eigsti and Rachel Drotar interview two Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland who have keen insight into who these martyrs were, what they accomplished in El Salvador, and their legacy. I was deeply moved by this podcast episode and believe you will be, too. You can listen at this link. A photo of the martyrs shared by the Maryknoll Sisters during a Zoom event about the anniversary of their deaths.
From the JUSTICE, PEACE and INTEGRITY OF CREATION COMMITTEE of CLEVELAND The following is a statement from the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation Committee of Cleveland (JPIC-CLE), which is composed of representatives (both religious and lay) from congregations of Catholic women religious who have been serving in northeast Ohio for over 175 years and two lay women. “An authentic faith … always involves a deep desire to change the world, to transmit values, to leave this earth somehow better than we found it.” These challenging words of Pope Francis in his encyclical Evangelii Gaudium were echoed by Congressman John Lewis in 2012 when he said: “My dear friends: Your vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have to create a more perfect union.” In the midst of a global pandemic, economic uncertainty, a broken immigration system, racial inequity and devastating evidence of the perils of climate change, this election calls us as never before to approach our precious right to vote knowing that we stand on holy ground. Pope Francis, our bishops, and religious and lay voices from all areas of the Church have spoken to that responsibility. Like so much of the discussion these months, their messages reflect a wide diversity of thought. At the root of each of those messages, however, is that human life is sacred and that the dignity of each human person is foundational. St. Pope John Paul II called those of us in the United States to be “unconditionally pro-life,” to recognize that a wholehearted commitment to life includes a commitment to eradicate every form of racism, to address the devastation and life-threatening effects of human-generated climate change, to end abortion and the death penalty. Pope Francis has affirmed those values and challenged us to honor our responsibility to refugees and immigrants. In his latest encyclical, Fratelli Tutti, Pope Francis “calls for a better kind of politics, one truly at the service of the common good.” (154) Perhaps more than any election in the recent past, we are called to a discernment that challenges us to listen to the Spirit of Truth around and within us, to reflect on every aspect of the Gospel message, and to make choices for the common good of ALL, choices we believe will give us the best chance to leave this nation and this earth better than we find it now. How do we discern which candidate will get our vote? No candidate for any elected position stands for every Catholic Social Principle. When we look for the candidate who agrees with us on EVERY issue, we come up empty. The candidate who seeks to protect the life of the unborn child might deny the scientifically-established potential devastation of climate change. The candidate who advocates for the asylum seeker and her family at the border may also seek to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Ultimately each of us must vote for a fallible human being who is also –- hopefully — sincerely searching for answers. Social media and the campaigns themselves increasingly focus on perceived character flaws and past mistakes of the opposing candidate. Integrity, honesty, openness to diverse views and the ability to bring divergent solutions together are lost amidst the clamor. The quest to win an election stifles the search for the common good for all who are in this country seeking quality of life, equal opportunity, and the freedom to pursue happiness. Of the candidates before us, for whom do we cast our precious, sacred vote? As persons of faith, character becomes critical and challenging. Who is the candidate with the wisdom, courage and skill to engage in true bipartisan efforts to support all human life by addressing the dignity of life of all the unborn and born, COVID-19, gender equity, systemic racism, just and compassionate immigration reform, climate change? Who is the candidate willing to speak the truth – as did John Lewis – that his or her party leaders do not want to hear? Who is the candidate open to hearing the truth from a member of the other party and has the ability to bring divergent views together? As people of the Gospel, we are called – as Jesus was – to speak the truth to our leaders. Our vote is one expression of what we see as our truth. Our hope for this election is that every citizen, regardless of age, race, gender identity, faith tradition or political party hold her or his vote as precious and sacred and recognize it as the most powerful right and obligation he or she has to contribute to truly creating a more perfect union, to make the nation better than it is today.
Nun Run Benefits Two Children’s Programs By Rochelle LandyDirector of Community Outreach for Ursuline Ministries We’re hosting our first ever VIRTUAL Nun Run! You can run or walk the virtual race from any location – on the grass, sidewalk, trail, treadmill or track — at any time during November. Usually, this event benefits the children’s program of the Ursuline Sisters HIV/AIDS Ministry. This year, it also benefits children served by Ursuline Preschool & Kindergarten. Your participation is a wonderful way to support our vital ministries and programs, stay active, and get the whole family involved in a healthy activity. And for those who love our Nun Run t-shirts, you can still get a t-shirt this year! If you register by Oct. 7, you’re guaranteed a race t-shirt, which you can either pick up at the Ursuline Center or have mailed to you. Our HIV/AIDS Ministry continues to provide services to children and their families during the COVID-19 crisis. We provide weekly, individualized, virtual tutoring sessions with the children to assist them with completing their school work. We created a private YouTube channel to showcase the talents of the children and children’s programming staff. We provide food and personal hygiene items to the families most severely impacted by this crisis. We created academic and educational kits that were distributed to the families each week during the summer. We continue to offer support for the children and families experiencing anxiety during this time. Check out the latest one and done workout reviews. Ursuline Preschool & Kindergarten is unwavering in its mission to provide the best early childhood Catholic education in our community. Our staff has worked tirelessly to keep students engaged with remote activities, Zoom classes, mystery readers, and social and emotional connections with their classmates and their school. We also reached out to our school families, providing food and household essentials needed due to job loss and hardships associated with the pandemic. We’re always looking for ways to raise money to help struggling families. More than ever, our children need help. If you’re interested in sponsorship opportunities and/or participating in the 6th annual Nun Run virtual race, please visit www.runsignup.com/nunrun. If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected], or call 330-793-0434. No matter how fast or slow you think of yourself, it’s time to own it. There’s speedy for you, and then there’s your own version of a leisurely jog, and that’s the great thing about running—you can go at your own pace. Running coaches will note multiple reasons why runners should incorporate different paces into their training. One of the most important reasons is because so many runners suffer injuries from not running slowly enough—or ever. Think about it: Many runners simply head out the door and go as hard as they can. There might be a little variation depending on the day or terrain, but generally speaking, they have one pace and it’s go. Alternatively, if you’re always taking it super easy, where you are rarely breaking a sweat or not breathing hard, you should also challenge yourself with some speedy efforts. Variety is the key. This is how Pelvic floor strong works. If you follow an official training plan, you’ve likely seen instructions for easy runs and faster ones. But a lot of beginner runners don’t really understand what that means—or why. What Does It Mean to Run Slow? Your own version of “slow” can be thought of as conversation-pace running. If you can pretty easily have chat with a buddy, then that’s your slow speed, if you are looking for healthy supplements check out these meticore consumer reviews. To give you an idea of the difference in fast and slow for two different runners, here’s the kind of information in the pace charts used by Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) coaches: Say you can run a 5K in 30 minutes, that’s a pace of 9:40 (fast); your easy long run should be 12-minute miles (slow).If you can run a half marathon in under 2 hours (about 9-minute miles), a slow run would be 10:22; you could expect to run a 5K in 25:30, at an 8:13 pace. If you’re more apt to track your heart rate on runs, a gentle pace would likely find your heart rate at approximately 110 to 140 beats per minute. These numbers may give you some idea of where you should be if you keep track of your time, pace, or heart rate. If not, don’t worry. These differences also relate to your effort and breathing—which relates back to the idea of being able to hold a conversation. If you think you’re the slowest runner out there (lots of people think this, but there’s no reason to compare yourself to anyone else) and still breathing hard and feeling like you’re going all out most of the time, then you aren’t going slowly enough at times. What Are the Benefits Of Running Slowly? Getting in your slow running time, at a conversational pace, has many benefits for your body (and a few for your ego): Strengthens muscles in legs, torso, and armsAdapts tendons, ligaments, joints, and bones to stress of runningPromotes efficient running form. Take a look the best biofit customer reviews.Teaches patience, discipline, and how to handle physical discomfortTrains the cardio, respiratory, and muscular systems to work more efficientlyPrevention of bone and back pain.Increases the quantity and size of mitochondria, improving oxygen use and glycogen stores Longer life span could potentially be added to that list, as well. In general, runners have an estimated 25 to 40 percent reduced risk of premature mortality. However, a 2015 study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that consistent slow and moderate-paced runners had an even lower risk of all-cause mortality than non-runners or strenuous runners. Our ministry does much good.The walkers hitting their stride.The runners made good time.But the men failed to beat the record.Gianna, our women’s champ, beat the record.The kids had a great time with their own run.
God’s Infinite Vision: Our Journey to the Borders and Beyond From left: Holy Cross Sr. Sharlet Wagner, past president; St. Joseph Sr. Jayne Helmlinger, president; and Adrian Dominican Sr. Elise García, president-elect (GSR file photo) The LCWR assembly is an important moment for collective reflection on the twin crises hitting the world at this time – COVID-19 and the realization of how deep systemic racism is in this country. The more than 900 assembly participants engaged with one another in prayer, conversation, and discernment about how this reality is changing their lives, their institutes, the people they serve, and literally, the entire global community. The world is being irrevocably changed and it cries out for healing, care, and transformation. This assembly provided time for the participants to listen together to those cries and ask themselves collectively how to respond. Questions for Discernment During The Assembly What does it mean to serve in religious life leadership at such a fragile, uncertain time? What new opportunities do the pandemic and the cries for racial justice provide so that the world may move in closer alignment with God’s infinite vision? What is the call to women religious at this time? We invite you, the visitor, to read the following articles about the virtual assembly, the new LCWR President and the Outstanding Leader Award. lcwr_2020_virtual_assemblyDownload lcwr_2020_Elise_GarciaDownload lcwr_2020_patty_chappellDownload
If The Moon Please join us in praying with the Leadership Conference of Religious Women the reflection “If the Moon Only Came Out Once A Month“.
Ursuline Sisters Install New Leadership Team From left are Councilors Sister Mary Alyce Koval, Sister Patricia McNicholas, Sister Regina Rogers, and General Superior, Sister Mary McCormick. A new Leadership Team is guiding our religious community! Our 2020-2026 leadership team was installed during Mass at our Motherhouse Chapel June 13. You can view a video of the Installation Ceremony. Sister Mary McCormick was installed as general superior. She is the 21st General Superior since the Ursulines began ministry in the Mahoning Valley in 1874. Her Councilors are Sisters Regina Rogers, Patricia McNicholas and Mary Alyce Koval. Sisters Mary, Regina and Patricia were re-elected to their posts, having served in the same capacity for the 2014-2020 Leadership Team. Sister Janice Kusick read our 1st reading at Mass Sister Mary also ministers as a Professor of Systematic Theology and the Academic Dean for St. Mary’s Seminary and Graduate School of Theology, Cleveland. She has served on the faculty there since 1997. Previously, Sister Mary served as an instructor at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Louisville, and Ursuline High School, Youngstown. She also has ministered as Finance Director for the Ursulines, as a Councilor on the Leadership Team, and as formation and Vocations Director. Sister Mary holds a Doctorate in systematic theology from Fordham University, Bronx, N.Y.; a Master of Arts in religious education from Loyola University, New Orleans; a Master of Arts in theology from Duquesne University; and a Bachelor of Science degree in education Youngstown State University. She also holds several professional certifications. An Austintown native, Sister Mary graduated from Ursuline High School and became a nun in 1975. Sister Nancy Dawson read our 2nd reading Sister Regina ministers as the Pastoral Associate for St. Edward Church, Youngstown. She previously served as Assistant Principal and member of the religious education staff at Ursuline High School. Sister Regina also taught at St. Patrick School in Youngstown and was Director of Religious Education for St. Joseph Parish, Canton. She is a past General Superior. Sister Regina earned a Master of Science in administration from the University of Notre Dame, a Master of Arts in religious studies from the Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C., and a Bachelor of Science in education from YSU. She holds many professional certifications. Sister Regina has served on the boards of many local and national-based organizations and is a regular volunteer at the Dorothy Day House in Youngstown. A Poland native, she graduated from Poland Seminary High School and became a nun in 1967. Sister Pauline Dalpe read our petitions Sister Patricia is Co-Director of Beatitude House, Youngstown, a ministry of the Ursuline Sisters. She has served in several positions for the ministry. Her prior ministries include teaching at St. Charles School, Boardman, St. Nicholas School, Struthers and at Ursuline and Cardinal Mooney high schools, Youngstown. She also has served in the Youngstown Diocese department of religious education. Sister Patricia is a past General Superior and has served the community in other offices. She earned a Doctorate in ministry from the United Theological Seminary, Dayton, a Master of Science in administration from the University of Notre Dame, a Master of Arts in religious education from Catholic University of America, and a Bachelor of Science in education from YSU. She holds several professional certifications. Sister Patricia has served on the boards of local and national-based organizations, including Leadership Youngstown, Catholic Charities, and on the Board of Trustees for Eastern Gateway Community College, Youngstown. A Youngstown native, Sister Patricia graduated from Cardinal Mooney and became a nun in 1961. Sister Darla Vogelsang led the Installation Ceremony Sister Mary Alyce Koval is the Parish Leader for St. Luke Church, Boardman. Previously, she served as the Education Director for Beatitude House, ministered as a Principal at St. Charles School, Boardman, St. Rose School, Girard, and St. Joseph School, Austintown, and served as an educator at several elementary schools in the Diocese of Youngstown. Sister Mary Alyce also is active in the greater community, serving on the Board of Directors for St. Joseph the Provider School, Youngstown, as a Board Member of the Mahoning Valley Association of Churches, as a Hospice of the Valley companion, and on the Youngstown Diocesan Pastoral Council. Previously she served on the Board of Directors for Park Vista of Youngstown. Sister Mary Alyce also served as a member of the Ursuline Sisters’ Leadership teams from 2002-2014, and as a member of the formation team. A graduate of Ursuline High School, Youngstown, Sister Mary Alyce earned a Bachelor of Science in education from YSU, a Master of Science in educational administration from the University of Dayton, and a Master of Arts in ministry from Ursuline College, Cleveland. She also holds several professional certifications. Our 2020-2026 Leadership Team. From left are Sisters Patricia McNicholas, Councilor, Regina Rogers, Councilor, Mary McCormick, General Superior, and Mary Alyce Koval, Councilor.
Paving Project Nears Completion The Ursuline Motherhouse Repaving Project is nearly complete, bringing much needed improvements to the Canfield location – visited by some 1,500 people a month in non-pandemic times. Just some final touches are needed for the $325,000 project, which fixed problems with broken, cracked and uneven pavement. Not only were there safety concerns, drainage issues were causing driveway flooding. The improvements corrected those and also increased parking spaces, more than doubling spaces reserved for handicapped visitors. Main Motherhouse entrance & parking for USSL residents.Main visitors’ parking lot & driveway.Ursuline Center & UPSK lots.The lots and drives are raised to fix flooding issues. “Our drives and parking areas accommodate visitors, employees and residents. Our Canfield campus comprises the Ursuline Sisters’ Motherhouse, Ursuline Ministries, Ursuline Sisters HIV/AIDS Ministry, Ursuline Education & Wellness Center, Ursuline Preschool & Kindergarten, and Ursuline Sisters Senior Living,” states Sister Mary McCormick, general superior. “Participation in our programs is always growing. A number of our visitors have mobility issues, and the new construction makes our lots much safer for everyone.” The Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown received four grants to help pay for the major project, which contributed 17% of the overall cost: a $25,000 grant from The Florence and Ward Beecher Foundation, dispersed over two years; a $20,000 grant award from the Youngstown Foundation; a $10,000 grant from Rick and Jody Vernal/RT Vernal Paving & Excavating, North Lima; and a $2,000 award from the Home Savings Charitable Foundation. R.T. Vernal was the main contractor on the project. This capital improvement project is part of ongoing maintenance and improvements to the Motherhouse complex. Late last year, Simon Roofing and the Simon family of Youngstown generously donated a $280,000 grant to install a new roof over the Sisters’ living quarters. Since 2012, the Ursuline Sisters have invested $8.6 million in building and property upgrades. Grants and private donations have funded approximately 18% of these improvements.