Sloatsburg, NY - On August 14th and 15th we, the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate, hosted our 67th Holy Dormition Pilgrimage in Sloatsburg NY, with approximately 2300 pilgrims. We were blessed with beautiful weather, joyful and dedicated volunteers who helped us before, during and after our Pilgrimage, and of course, blessed with a big crowd of pilgrims who long awaited to be back at this holy mountain after Covid-19, since our 66th Holy Dormition Pilgrimage had to be live streamed.
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On August 7th, 220 people joined the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate in Sloatsburg, NY to celebrate our SSMI Jubilarians Sr. Evelyn Stock, Sr. Anne Roman, Sr. Zenovia Chmilar, Sr. Michele Yakymovitch and Sr. Eliane Ilnitski. The celebration began with an 11:00AM Divine Liturgy at the Grotto. The concelebrants were Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak, Bishop Paul Chomnycky and Bishop Bohdan Danylo, along with clergy from the Archeparchy of Philadelphia and Eparchy of Stamford. The celebration continued with a festive dinner on the outdoor terrace behind St. Mary’s Villa with approximately 220 people in attendance. We offer our gratitude to these five Sisters for 265 years of prayer and service, vowing to Almighty God obedience, chastity and poverty. Each of these Sisters have lived their religious consecration in their own unique way making a difference in our church, in our community and in the personal lives of so many people.
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In gratitude to those who have served 2016-2021: Sister Kathleen Hutsko, SSMI, Provincial, Sister Michele Yakymovitch, SSMI, Vice-Provincial, Sister Natalya Stoczanyn, SSMI, Councilor, Sister Eliane Ilnitski, SSMI, Councilor. The Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate, the Immaculate Conception Province are pleased to announce the election of the new administration to a five-year term (2021-2026): Sister Eliane Ilnitski, SSMI, Provincial, Sister Kathleen Hutsko, SSMI, Vice-Provincial, Sister Michele Yakymovitch, SSMI, Councilor, Sister Tekla Gnatyuk, SSMI, Councilor.
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The Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate of the Immaculate Conception Province-USA held their Provincial Chapter at St. Mary's Villa - Sloatsburg, NY from July 5-8, 2021. During this Chapter, we gathered to elect a new Provincial Council for the term of 2021-2026. We gathered also to discuss and identify ways to live out more fully our commitment to prayer and service/ministry in the Church.
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On Sunday, November 1, 2020, Bishop Paul Chomnycky, Eparch of Stamford, blessed an icon of our Lady of Zarvanytsia. The beautiful icon was donated to the Sisters Servants by V. Rev. Archpriest Kiril Angelov and his family. The icon will be venerated and carried in procession during the upcoming 67th Holy Dormition Pilgrimage which will be Aug. 14 & 15, 2021. Bishop Paul and Fr. Kiril celebrated a moleben to the Mother of God, to which the Sisters Servants sang the responses and then Bishop Paul blessed the icon of our Lady of Zarvanytsia and blessed the Sisters. The Sisters Servants extended sincere gratitude to both Bishop Paul and to Fr. Kiril. -Sister Kathleen, SSMI
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The Sisters Servants are grateful to God, the Hierarchy, Clergy, and all of those who joined us in the virtual pilgrimage due to the pandemic. The Sisters Servants truly missed having our thousands of pilgrims on this holy mountain in Sloatsburg with us face to face, but please be assured that our Sisters, as well as the participating Hierarchy and clergy, lifted each of you up in prayer, including all of your special intentions. May God continue to bless and protect you as we look forward to your "live" presence here in Sloatsburg for the 67th Holy Dormition Pilgrimage on August 14-15, 2021. Glory to God! Honor to Mary! Peace to Us!
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The Sisters Servants annual retreat was directed by Bishop Paul Chomnycky. The Sisters received much spiritual nourishment from Bishop Paul's inspiring homilies and conferences. The retreat ended on July 30th, and the Sisters took the opportunity to celebrate Bishop Paul's feast day. Following the 11:00 Divine Liturgy, we enjoyed a delicious meal, and before the feast day cake was served, the Sisters gave a program with songs and blessings focused on Paul as an apostle of Christ, relating to Bishop Paul's life as a disciple of Jesus. It was a relaxing and pleasant afternoon.
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On July 1st, the Sisters Servants celebrated the feast day of Bishop Paul Chomnycky at St. Mary's Villa. We began with Bishop Paul celebrating the 4:00 pm Divine Liturgy, which was followed by a festive dinner with the Sisters. During the dinner, the Sisters performed a little program which centered around the main gift given to Bishop Paul, a beautiful icon (as shown in the pictures). The evening was filled with much camaraderie and laughter. May God grant Bishop Paul many blessed years!
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On April 7th, the official date of the 100th Anniversary of Blessed Josaphata's death, over 100 people joined us to bring this triduum weekend to a closure. The 2:00 pm Divine Liturgy began with a procession by our hierarchy in attendance: Bishop Paul Chomnycky, Eparchy of Stamford main celebrant and homilist; Bishop Bohdan Danylo, Ukrainian Eparchy of Parma; Bishop Andriy Rabiy, Auxiliary Bishop-Archeparchy of Philadelphia, Bishop Kurt Burnette, Byzantine Eparchy of Passaic; Bishop Milan Lach, Byzantine Eparchy of Parma; Bishop Basil Losten, Bishop-Emeritus; Bishop George Langbert, Anglican Church, Rev. Fr. Basil Salkosky - Provincial Superior of the Basilian Fathers, along with several clergy. Sisters of St. Basil the Great from Foxchase, PA, Sisters of Life from Montebello, NY, Sisters of Christian Doctrine, along with the Catechists from Stamford were also present. Following the Divine Liturgy, everyone enjoyed a festive meal and entertainment by the Sodalists and students from St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic School in Passaic, NJ. Sloatsburg Mayor Carl Wright spoke and then presented the Sisters Servants with a plaque commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the death of Blessed Josaphata.
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Today in Preparation for the Centennial, with our guests and members of LUC we prayed the Chaplet to Bl. Josaphata, followed by refreshment, a short video with testimonies of people who have received graces through the intercession of Bl. Josaphata and Sr. Natalya Stoczanyn gave a brief presentation about Blessed Josaphata and why she is a modern day witness for today�s world. To close the day we sang the beautiful Molebem to Blessed Josaphata, celebrated by our Chaplain, Msgr. John Terlecky.
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Approximately 40 people were present for the second day of celebration. The sisters and guests sang the beautiful service of the Akathist to Blessed Josaphata in St. Mary's Chapel. Sr. Natalya Stoczanyn gave a presentation about Josaphata in the gallery. After the closing of the weekend on April 7th, we are planning on posting the presentations of the weekend on our website through YOU TUBE, so stay tuned.
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On April 4th, the SSMI's in the American Province began their 4-day triduum celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the death of the first Sister Servant and foundress, Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska. Approximately 45-50 people filled St. Mary's Chapel and sang the Moleben to Blessed Josaphata, which was celebrated by Bishop Paul Chomnycky, Msgr. John Terlecky and Rev. Basil Hutsko. Following the service, everyone filled their plates with goodies and assembled in the gallery for a presentation on Blessed Josaphata by Sr. Kathleen Hutsko. We were blessed with a special guest speaker Dr. Kimberly Hashin from St. Nicholas Parish in Minersville, PA and her mom, Cookie Hashin. Dr. Kim shared their grace or miracle they believed came through the intercession of Blessed Josaphata to their father +Michael Hashin, It was a very moving testimony and after it, there was a question and answer period. It was a blessed opening of this triduum!
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On February 1st, after much preparation for this big moment, Sr. Kathleen, Sr. Albina, Sr. Jonathan, representing the Sisters Servants in the American Province were happy to be present at the official oath ceremony in Pomona, NY where 127 people, including our Sr. Eliane Ilnitski became USA citizens. We are so proud of her and are grateful to her, her family and the sisters in the Province of Brazil for sharing her with us.
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On Nov. 3, 2018 the Sisters Servants gathered for Community Day, which is a day of renewal of our spirits and minds as well as a business meeting. We were blessed to have as our guest presenter V. Rev. Bohdan Tymchyshyn, Rector of St. Basil's Seminary in Stamford, CT. The title of his presentations was "Approach with the fear of God and with faith." The sisters were grateful for his inspiring words. Following a delicious lunch, we returned to business as we discussed how to continue to be vibrant and life-giving in our ministry to our Church, and the actions we need to take to be able to continue to minister in Sloatsburg. We also discussed how we will be celebrating the upcoming celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the death of our foundress, Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska in 2019. It was truly a blessed day!
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On Nov. 3, 2018, Sr. Kathleen Hutsko conducted a Day of Recollection for our Lay Associates at St. Mary's Villa. They gather once or twice a year for this type of renewal. Our SSMI Lay Associates offer their prayers and service in the charism of our foundress Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska and co-founders, Fr. Jeremiah Lomnitsky and Fr. Cyril Seletsky. The day began with prayer/reflection and a presentation by Sr. Kathleen, "Marian Spirituality & our SSMI Founders." Fr. James Spera celebrated the Divine Liturgy at which time the lay associates renewed their commitment for one year. The day also included time talking about "Lay Associate business" and then highlighted by a turkey crafty activity they did with the residents of St. Joseph's Home. Finally, everyone gathered at the Provincial Home where we prayed the moleben to Fr. Jermemiah and then feasted on soup and sandwiches and enjoyed each other's company. A blessed day!
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On August 11 & 12, the 64th Holy Dormition Pilgrimage, which has become known as the "American Zavarnitza" hosted almost 8,000 pilgrims. The Mother of God (Theotokos) held her mantle over the little mountain in Sloatsburg and provided weather which added to the spiritual atmosphere which permeated throughout the day. The increase of the Ukrainian faithful this year was due to the presence of the Head of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, His Beatitude Patriarch Sviatoslav and His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of the Archeparchy of New York. Sr. Sofija Lebedowicz, SSMI, Superior General of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate greeted His Beatitude and all the hierarchy as well as the sisters and pilgrims. The long lines for the Mysteries of Reconciliation and Eucharist were signs of the hunger of the pilgrims to deepen their faith, receive many graces and perhaps some type of miracle. The Sisters Servants are grateful to His Beatitude Patriarch Sviatoslav, Cardinal Dolan, Bishop Paul and all of the Hierarchy and priests who served the pilgrims. We also thank our SSMI Lay Associates, the LUC, the parishioners from various parishes Ukrainian, Byzantine and Roman Rite, along those from the village of Sloatsburg. Without you, we could never had succeeded in hosting this momentous pilgrimage. We thank the choirs from St. Mary's Byzantine Church in Hillsborough, NJ and St. George's Ukrainian Church in New York. Finally, but not least, we thank the many benefactors who supported this year's pilgrimage. A special DVD will be available through the sponsorship of the League of Ukrainian Catholics, Anonymous Donor, Mr. Bohdan Sowa, and Self-Reliance(NY) Federal Credit Union. Glory to God! Honor to Mary! Peace to Us!
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We celebrated this special day with a Holy Hour, Divine Liturgy, barbecue and prayed the Panahyda for our deceased sisters. The Dormition Holy Day is very special to our sisters. On this day our Congregation was founded by Blessed Josaphata, Fr. Jeremiah and Fr. Cyril and in many Provinces our sisters professed their Final Vows.
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On Saturday August 4th, 2018 we celebrated the Jubilees of six SSMI Sisters of their Commitment, Love, and Dedication in Consecrated Life: 75 years - Sr. Tharasia, 65 years - Sr. Bernitta, Sr. Consolata and Sr. Stefanie, 60 years - Sr. Jonathan and 50 years - Sr. Cecelia. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Bishop Paul Chomnyck, and con-celebrated by Bishop Basil Losten, Rt. Rev. Mitred Msgr. John Terlecky, Rt. Rev. Mitred Archpriest Philip Weiner and Rev. Andriy Dudkevych. Also, joined for our celebration family members of the sisters, friends, Lay Associates and the Sisters Missionary of the Mother of God. For a sharper view please click on Full View under the picture.
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On March 8th and March 11th, the Sisters Servants hosted a 3P's = Pray, Play and Pizza inviting anyone to join us. The special week is celebrated nationally to honor and acknowledge the work of the Catholic Sisters in our society and Church. This year it is from March 8- 14, 2018 We had over 100 people in attendance at our 3P's event Thank you to all who attended as we prayed, shared a meal together and played together.
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On Dec. 28th, the Sisters Servants welcomed Archbishop Stefan to Sloatsburg to celebrate the feast of his Patron Saint with an 11:00 Divine Liturgy, followed by a festive dinner. We presented Archbishop with a short program and variety of gifts as part of the program. Archbishop also enjoyed a special treat with the visit of some carolers from St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church/School in Passaic, NJ let by their pastor, Fr. Andriy Dudkevych and Mrs. Olga Figol.
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On December 12th, Archbishop Stefan, along with Bishop John Bura, Bishop Andriy Rabiy and Rev. Roman Pitula, Rector of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral welcomed our Superior General Sr. Sofija Lebedowicz, Sr. Janice Soluk, Sr. Petra Sickova and several SSMI's from Sloatsburg. We were treated to a festive dinner at the Archbishop's residence, followed by a celebration of the Moleben to the Mother of God before the mosaic of Blessed Josaphata in the Cathedral. We then were given a tour of the museum. We also were joined by our dear friends, the Missionary Sisters of the Mother of God, who helped us sing the moleben. All of us truly experienced the warm hospitality of the Archbishop, Bishop John and Bishop Andriy and Fr. Roman. God bless them.
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On December 9th, a special Divine Liturgy celebrated by Bishop Paul Chomnycky and presided by Bishop Basil Losten was held at St. Mary's Chapel. Our Lay Associates, those able to get through the snowy conditions, attended the Divine Liturgy which was followed by a festive dinner at which they met and spent time with Sr. Sofija.
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From Dec. 6-16, 2017, our newly elected Superior General Sr. Sofija made her first visit to the U.S. as Superior General, along with Sr. Janice Soluk, General Councilor and Sr. Petra Sickova, Prov. Superior from Slovakia. The Sisters welcomed Sr. Sofia officially on Dec. 6th with supper at St. Joseph's Home. On Dec. 7th, when all the sisters were in, the Sisters officially greeted Sr. Sofija and Sr. Janice with a festive dinner at St. Mary's Villa. It was on this day that we began our 3-day tridum celebration for the feast of the Immaculate Conception with Bishop Paul Chomnycky as the director, giving us conferences. On Dec. 10th, Sr. Sofija presented a papal blessing to Sr. Michele at the closing celebration 75th anniversary of St. Joseph's Home. The rest of the days were filled with meetings and on Dec. 16th we all gathered to bid farewell to our guests, but look forward to their next visit.
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From July 7-27, the Sisters Servants conducted their General Chapter in Rome, Italy. One of the main purposes of the Chapter is to elect a new Superior General and General Councillors. The newly elected Curia for 2017-2023 is as follows: Sr. Sofia Lebedowicz - Superior General Sr. Bonifatia Dakiv - Vice- General Sr. Janice Soluk - Councilor Sr. Mykola Ctepas - Councilor Sr. Luiza Ciupa - Councilor.
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The 63nd Holy Dormition Pilgrimage, hosted by the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate in Sloatsburg, NY on August 12 & 13, welcomed 4, 239 pilgrims who journeyed from near and far, including Canada. Throughout the day, Divine Liturgy, various prayer services, the Stations of the Cross, the rosary, Moleben, blessing of the sick, activities for the children were available. Sr. Janice Soluk, SSMI from Canada and Sr. Tekla Gnatyuk gave presentations about the history of the SSMI's and how we continue to serve God's people. Throughout the day, pilgrims reverently lit candles and prayed for their many intentions. Pilgrims stopped and shared with the sisters their stories. One family was in distress as the mother had lost the broach during the pilgrimage somewhere on the grounds. It was the broach which her husband gave her 37 years ago, which he purchased at the pilgrimage in Sloatsburg and it was here in Sloatsburg where they met and in time were married. Thankfully, the broach was found and returned.
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On August 5th, over 100 gathered at St. Mary's Villa , including family, friends, Lay Associates and religious to celebrate the Jubilees of six SSMI Sisters of their Commitment in Consecrated Life: 75 years - Sr. Thomas, Sr. Juliette, Sr. Longina 65 years - Sr. Bernardine (+Sr. Clare who died on July 27th) 60 years - Sr. Charlotte, Sr. Barbara The celebration began with an 11:00 am Divine Liturgy with Archbishop Stefan Soroka, Bishop John Bura, Bishop Basil Losten along with concelebrating priests Fr. Dan Troyan, Fr. Martin Canavan, Fr. Philip Sandrick, Fr. Evhen Moniuk and also present were Msgr. John Terlecky and Fr. Mark Fesniak. Sr. Kathleen, Prov. Superior and Mayor Carl Wright greeted the Jubilarians. All gathered for a festive dinner in the gallery and had a wonderful time celebrating.
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July 4, 1942, 75 years ago, six men entered the front door of the home, the former carriage house of the Hamilton Morgan estate. Those men paved the way for so many men, women, retired priests and sisters that followed throughout the years. The Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate, owners and caretakers of St. Joseph�s Home at that time were bold and adventurous. They were determined and committed. Today, we see what those qualities managed to produce in an ever changing world. A world that is business orientated and commercial minded!
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The 50 children participants of the Stamford Eparchial Youth Convention - Serving God by Serving Others - which was help in Yonkers NY, on June 24-25, had a beautiful 2 days between prayer, discussions and activities. Besides visiting the Police and Fire Departments, in Yonkers, and saying Thank You to them for all what they do for our citizens, on Sunday, June 25th, about 25 children visited our St. Joseph's Residents, serving and joining them for a barbecue. After the barbecue they performed few songs, played the piano, presented to each resident a little gift of a cross which was decorated by them on Saturday, followed by cookies and ice-cream. They ended the weekend going to St. Joseph's Chapel and praying for all those who need our help and care.
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On June 21st, the SSMI's in Sloatsburg continued to celebrate the 125th Jubilee of their founding as an Apostolic Congregation in Zhuzhel, Ukraine. The invitation was for our Hierarchy, clergy and religious to thank them for being part of our journey in serving the Church together. The day began with a procession from St. Mary's to the Grotto Altar with our hierarchy, clergy and religious to celebrate the Divine Liturgy. Following the Divine Liturgy, we gathered at St. Mary's terrace to celebrate with a festive BBQ as God blessed us with fantastic weather. During the the celebration the Sisters also acknowledged the feast day (June 29th) of our Eparch, Bishop Paul Chomnycky. The celebration atmosphere was enchanced by the uplifting music provided by "Yuri". As we continue to celebrate 125 years, we ask that you join us in prayer each month, which is posted in our Diocesan newspapers. Glory to God! Honor to Mary ! Peace to Us!
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On May 20-21, 2017, Fr. Philip Weiner, pastor and parishioners of St. Josaphat Church in Rochester, NY welcomed Sr. Kathleen, Sr. Michele, Sr. Eliane and Sr. Anne to the blessing and dedication of the newly renovated convent chapel to the Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska Chapel in honor of the Sisters Servants 125th Jubilee and in thanksgiving for the many years that the Sisters served in the school and parish. The weekend began on Sat. with a 5:00 Divine Liturgy followed by a procession to the convent for the blessing. On Sunday morning parishioners gathered in the chapel and we procession with the Icon and relics of Blessed Josaphata for the Divine Liturgy which was followed by a gathering in the school cafeteria with the Sisters and parishioners . The hospitality and kindness of St. Josaphat parish is to be commended! Glory to God! Honor to Mary! Peace to Us!
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Celebration of the 75th Anniversary of Service, Love and Dedication of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate to the Elderly at St. Joseph's Adult Care Home, Inc. May God bless all our administrators, volunteers, residents and their families, staff and everyone all who have supported us until now and continue to support. Thank you to all.
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March 8-12, 2017, our SSMI Sisters from Canada who serve on the Leadership team: Sr. Christina, Sr. Theresa, Sr. Janice and Sr. Janet joined us for a meeting and some social time together. We took our guests to NYC to see Ellis Island and the names on the wall of our 1st four SSMI's who came from Ukraine over the border and then to Ground Zero. We had 2 days of business and were happy to have Sr. Barbara Jean Mihalchik, OSBM be the presenter for one of the days on Commitment and Leadership. We joined together for prayer time, and found time to celebrate our 125th Jubilee as a Congregation. Glory to God! Honor to Mary! Peace to Us!
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On November 27th, the Sisters in the American Province along with Metropolitan Stefan Soroka, Bishop Kurt Burnette, Msgr. John Terlecky and several lay associates celebrated the 50th Jubilee of our Superior General Sr. Theresa Anne Slota. Sr. Theresa's ministries have ranged from being a teacher, principal, assistant to the Nuncio, Provincial Superior of the Canadian Province and since 2011, Superior General of the Sisters Servants around the world.
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Since February 7, 2016, the Sisters Servants were gifted with the grace of having St. Mary's Chapel inaugurated as a Holy Door of Mercy by Bishop Paul Chomnycky. During that time almost a thousand pilgrims have come to pray privately and in communal prayer with the Sisters. On November 20th, Bishop Paul was present, along with Msgr. John Terlecky, Fr. Edward Young, Fr. Roman Malyarchuk and Fr. Wasyl Hrynkiw for the closing of the holy doors of mercy at St. Mary's Chapel. The special closing ceremony was attended by approximately 80 Sisters Servants and faithful who traveled to pray the moleben to the Merciful Christ, the chapel to Blessed Josaphata and to receive an anointing of special blessings and graces. Following the closing of the Holy Door, all gathered for some appetizers and social. What a blessed moment for all in attendance.
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On the weekend of Nov. 19-20, the SSMI's joyfully celebrated with their lay associates the 25th Jubilee of the SSMI Lay Associate program. The weekend was filled with prayer services, presentations, a fun-filled day with the residents of St. Joseph's and a beautiful Divine Liturgy with the renewal of their one-year covenant and the induction of 5 new Lay Associates ending with a festive reception. God bless our Lay Associates for another 25 years.
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On August 15th, the feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God, the SSMI's were truly blessed with a visit by His Eminence, Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York. Cardinal Dolan celebrated Mass in St. Mary's Chapel. The Cardinal's inspirational words and humor were enjoyed by all. It was the first visit by the Cardinal and we celebrated with a festive dinner. The Sisters were joined by some of the volunteers who helped at the pilgrimage the day before and Lay Associates.
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August 21-28 Sr. Kathleen and Sr. Tekla represented the USA province and travelled to Lviv, Ukraine for the opening celebrations. Between 60-75 Sisters Servants gathered at various churches and special places in the life of Blessed Josaphata Hordshevska such as St. Onyfrius Church - the place of her Clothing Day as well as Zarvanytsia, Chervonohrad, Zhuzhelany
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The 62nd Holy Dormition Pilgrimage, hosted by the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate in Sloatsburg, NY on August 13-14, was truly a blessed experience for the 3,111 pilgrims who journeyed from near and far as well as for the Sisters Servants. The theme of Jesus the Face of Mercy; Mary the Mother of Mercy permeated the services, homilies, presentations and activities during the weekend.
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On July 30th, the SSMI's along with family of the Jubiliarians, friends and Lay Associates joyfully celebrated with our Jubiliarians: 70 years of Consecrated Life - Sr. Oksana, Sr. Evelyn; 50 years of Consecrated Life - Sr. Zenovia; and 25 years of Consecrated Life - Sr. Natalya. The celebration began with an 11:00 am Divine Liturgy celebrated by Archbishop Stefan Soroka, Bishop Paul Chomnycky, Bishop Basil Losten, Msgr. John Terlecky and Rev. Stepan Sus. A festive dinner was served along with entertainment provided by the Jubilarians and guests. It was a beautiful celebration of the the unconditional love and faithfulness of our God to Sr. Oksana, Sr. Evelyn, Sr. Zenovia and Sr. Natalya. Thank you to all our guests who joined in this life-giving moment!
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Spending time alone with our Loving God is an essential part of every Christian's life, but especially for Consecrated men and women. This year's annual retreat was held from July 21-28. The preached retreat was given by Rev. Larry Kondra, C.Ss.R. The theme was "Where Mercy Leads" The directed retreat was conducted by Sr. Eileen Carmody, PBVM.
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By the Grace of Almighty God, the new leadership team for the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate in the United States for the term 2016-2021 has been announced. Sister Kathleen Hutsko, Provincial Superior Sister Michele Yakymovitch Vice Provincial -first councilor Sister Natalya Stoczanyn, 2nd Councilor Sister Eliane Ilntiski -3rd Councilor Day 5 of the Provincial Chapter concluded with greetings read from Most Rev. Paul Chomnycky, OSBM Eparch of Stamford and Sister Ruth Plante, OSBM, Provincial Superior of the Order of St. Basil the Great, Uniontown, PA. Final touches were made to the Provincial Chapter of 2016 with the reading of the minutes and accepting their approval. Sisters gathered to sign their signature as delegates to the chapter and officially closing the chapter with a prayer service of Thanksgiving.
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Day 4 Provincial Chapter proceedings continued. Reverend Daniel Troyan prayed his final Divine Liturgy with the Sisters Servants and bid farewell upon his return to his parish in West Easton, PA. Greetings were read by the sisters from Most Reverend Kurt Burnette, Eparch of Passaic for Ruthenians, Mother Evhenia Pazsny, Missionary Sisters of the Mother of God. Discussion on the criteria for delegates to the General Chapter were shared by past representatives. Sisters Tekla Gnatiuk and Natalya Stoczanyn will accompany Sr. Kathleen Hutsko, Provincial Superior to the upcoming General Chapter in 2017. If the need should arise, an alternative is Sister Eliane Ilnitski and Sister Zenovia Chmilar. Sisters reviewed the directives of the Sisters Servants and made recommendations for change and implementation. A directional statement was formulated for the next council's sense of direction. May God bless our facilitator Sr. Kathy McCluskey, CSJ. from Boston, MA and Sr. Mary Anne Doyle, CSJ, who added her experience with finances to Sr. Barbara's presentation.
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Day two of the Provincial Chapter continues with the Divine Liturgy celebrated by the Reverend Daniel Troyan. Greetings were read from Most Reverend William Skurla, Metropolitan Archbishop for Ruthenians, Most Reverend Bohdan Danylo, Eparch of Parma, and Provincial Superior of St. Michael the Archangel Province in Brazil, Sister Rosalia Paraschuk, SSMI. Discernment process continued as sisters shared their ministries. Most especially the ministry on the home property of the Sisters Servants in Sloatsburg, NY. at St. Mary's Villa and St. Joseph's Adult Care Home. Before the day concluded, sisters had the opportunity to thank the outgoing Provincial Council for their years of dedicated service, their fidelity and love for the province. May God grant them many years as everyone sang I thank my God each time I think of you and when I think of you, I pray for you.
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On February 7th, over 100 people joined the Sisters Servants in prayer as Bishop Paul Chomnycky, Eparch of Stamford blessed St. Mary's Chapel as a "Holy Door" during this Jubilee Year. The Sisters Servants pray that their chapel may be, as Pope Francis says, a Holy Door that becomes a Door of Mercy through which anyone who enters will experience the love of God, Who consoles, pardons, and instills hope. During the Jubilee Year, the Sisters Servants will include in the diocesan newspapers a series of pictures and articles describing the corporal works of mercy of Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska, our foundress.
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On January 1st, feast of the Circumcision of our Lord and the feast of St. Basil the Great, the SSMI's were honored to be able to celebrate Bishop Basil Losten's feast day in Sloatsburg. Bishop Basil celebrated the 11:00 Divine Liturgy and then the Sisters and a few Lay Associates enjoyed a festive dinner, singing carols and enjoying the Bishops company.
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The SSMI's were honored to be able to celebrated Arcbishop Stefan Soroka's feast day in Sloatsburg on December 28th. Archbishop celebrated an 11:00 Divine Liturgy followed by a festive dinner.
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According to their Constitutions, the Sisters Servants renew their vows of Obedience, Chastity and Poverty to Almighty God, each year on the feast of the Immaculate Conception. From Dec. 7-9 the Sisters Servants prepared and celebrated the feast with a holy hour, prayer and conferences directed by Bishop Paul Chomnycky, Eparchy for Stamford.
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Celebrating Blessed Josaphata's Day at St. Nicholas Parish with students and faculty with Divine Liturgy, Chaplet to Blessed Josaphata and venerations of her relic. At the end of the Divine Liturgy the League of Ukrainian Catholics presented Sister John Paskevich Memorial School Endowment Award to our Grade 8th Student.
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On November 15th, a joy-filled bus load of SSMI's traveled to the Ukrainian Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception as the Archeparchy honored Consecrated Men and Women religious. Patriarch Sviatoslav and Metropolitan Stefan blessed the mosacis of Blessed Josaphata and Servant of God Andrew. Please pray with us that these two pioneers of faith may soon be Canonized by Pope Francis.
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On November 7th, Sr. Kathleen, Sr. Stephanie, Sr. Cecelia and Sr. Tekla traveled with a bus from St. Nicholas in Passaic to join the thousands of pilgrims who would be present at this historical occasion. The Sisters Servants stood side by side with the massive crowd and were glad we were there. Although it was a commemoration of a tragic event in history, the crowd and speeches spoke convincingly of the reason for the monument: to remember and always strive with hope, courage and conviction for freedom in Ukraine. The speeches by all the speakers were excellent but the speeches by two survivors of this holocaust were so captivating, no one had a dry eye in the crowd.
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On Sunday, November 1, 2015, Sisters Tekla and Eliane visited St. Michael's Parish in Cherry Hill, NJ, with the Icon and 1st Class Relic of Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska, foundress of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate. It was a prayerful and beautiful day spent with the parishioners and their Pastor, Rev. Fr. Paul Makar. At the end of the Divine Liturgy, Sisters Tekla and Eliane shared with everyone a little bit about Blessed Josaphata's life and some of the many miracles received by those who prayed through Blessed Josaphata's intercession, followed by the veneration of the Icon and Relic. During St. Michael's Feast Day Dinner, which was celebrated that Sunday; Sr. Eliane spoke for few minutes about Vocations and asked everyone to pray and offer sacrifice for Vocations to the Priesthood, Religious Life and also for the young men and women who are planning to get married and start a family, that they see the Sacrament of Marriage as God's gift and blessing. Also she encouraged parents not to be afraid to consecrate and encourage their child to serve God as a Priest or a Religious Sister or Brother.
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The Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate thank God for a graced filled pilgrimage on August 8 & 9. Gratitude to the hierarchy, clergy, pilgrims and many many volunteers who helped make it a blessed spiritual experience. Approximately 3200 pilgrims traveled to the pilgrimage in Sloatsburg, NY.
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On Saturday, August 8th, during our Holy Dormition Pilgrimage, seven new SSMI Lay Associates were inducted during the 5:00 PM Divine Liturgy. SSMI Lay Associates are adult women and men, single, or married, who make a renewable, one-year covenant to live the values of the Gospel according to the charism of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate. If you would like more information about becoming a Lay Associate under the "About Us" section of our website or contact Sr. Kathleen at 845-753-2840 or srkath25@gmail.com
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On July 31st, the Sisters Servants gathered for a meeting to discuss various business issues including their vision in continuing in the words of Blessed Josaphata to go where the need is the greatest. The Sisters also discussed plans for the upcoming Provincial Chapter in 2016 when a new Provincial and Council will be elected and also their upcoming 125th Jubilee as a world-wide congregation in 2017.
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On June 30th, Sisters Servants and company, traveled to Philadelphia, PA for a mini- pilgrimage, visiting our Immaculate Conception Cathedral. Fr. Walter's presentation was very informing and spiritual enriching. We then traveled to the St. John Neumann Center where we also received enjoyed a tour and much spiritual enrichment. It was a truly blessed day capped off by lunch on the Turnpike!
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With much joy and gratitude to God, SSMI's, Lay Associates, family and friends of Sr. Rose Margaret Kanski gathered at St. Mary's Villa to celebrate her 60th Jubilee as a Sister Servant of Mary Immaculate. V. Rev. Archpriest Ivan Kaszczak was the celebrant for the 11:00 am Divine Liturgy at St. Mary's followed by a festive dinner. Some of Sr. Rose Margaret's family were in attendance from Wisconsin, Indiana, Wyoming and North Dakota, her birthplace.
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The Sisters Servants celebrated Bishop Paul's feast day a little earlier this year, on June 25th. Bishop Paul celebrated an 11:00 Divine Liturgy at St. Mary's Chapel. Following the Divine Liturgy, everyone went downstairs to enjoy a festive dinner. As every year, the Sisters had a program for Bishop Paul. This year, the Scripture passages, reflections and prayers focused on the main gift to Bishop Paul, a bear/fan, making reference to the courage, strength and leadership of a bear and the influence of the Holy Spirit in our lives, symbolized by the fan.
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Thank you very much to everyone who participated and a special thank you to our Lay Associates, LUC Members and volunteers for all the help received before and during the event...
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On May 14th, Ascension Thursday, the SSMI's invited Bishop Basil Losten to Sloatsburg to celebrate his 85th birthday and to acknowledge his 58 years of service to our Church, Mnohaya Lita Bishop Basil
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After being in Buffalo, NY, Sr. Tekla and Sr. Kathleen traveled with the Blessed Josaphata icon to St. Josaphat parish in Rochester, NY where they were warmly welcomed by the pastor, Fr. Philip Weiner and parishioners. The sisters spoke at both the 10:00 and 11:30 Divine Liturgies. The faithful then came to venerate the icon, praying their special intentions through the intercession of Blessed Josaphat and received Blessed Josaphata prayer cards and a 2nd class relic medal.
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On April 18th, Sr. Kathleen and Sr. Tekla traveled upstate to visit the parishioners of St. Nicholas in Buffalo. Fr. Marijan Procyk and parishioners showed their gracious hospitality and prayerful spirit in celebrating the moleben to Blessed Josaphata in church and then everyone came up to venerate the icon of Blessed Josaphata. Following the service, a delicious luncheon was served as the Sisters Servants talked about the life and death of Blessed Josaphata. In concluding the sisters asked the people to continue to pray for the canonization of Blessed Josaphata
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A special SSMI Formation Meeting is being held from April 8 - 22 in Rome at the General Home of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate. Sr. Natalya represented the American Province at this special meeting.
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On March 2nd, a Women's Day was held at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church sponsored by the Archeparchy of Philadelphia as well as the Sisters Servants, the Missionary Sisters and the Sisters of St. Basil. Sr. Natalya, SSMI was the presenter for the program. The theme was Faith and Family. She provided a Faith and the Family idea booklet for crafts to do as a family and also a closing prayer. There were approximately 84 women, including sisters, in attendance. It was a good spiritual experience for the women.
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On Sunday, February 8th over 60 guests attended the Open House which began with an 11:00 am Divine Liturgy celebrated by Bishop Paul Chomnycky, OSBM, Eparchy of Stamford followed by a delicious meal. The guests toured through the SSMI Motherhouse, which once was the Sloatsburg Table Rock Estate of Alexander Hamiltion (great-grandson of Alexander Hamiltion and Juliet P. Morgan). The guests were truly impressed with the history and beauty of the home and the "warmth" of the Sisters Servants hospitality. Unfortunately, the Open House was cut short due to the inclement weather, and we could not share the Vocation Stories & the DVD on the Life of Blessed Josaphata, but the Sisters hope to invite people back for more! Each guest received a souvenir packet as they left. A few brave souls stayed a little longer to continue on to the tour of St. Joseph's Home. (Sr. Eliane, SSMI submitted pictures)
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On November 28th, the Sisters and SSMI Lay Associates, celebrated Sr. Kathleen's Feast Day. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by our Bishop Paul Patrick Chomnycky, O.S.B.M., followed by a festive dinner and creative greetings from each of the sisters home. Happy Feast Day Sr. Kathleen. May God bless you with joy, peace, love and health.
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The meal was delicious, but the company was even better. Thank you to all for joining us and for all the help...
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On November 1 & 2 - Sisters Kathleen and Natalya were warmly welcomed by Rev. Mykhaylo Dosyak and Deacon Pedro and all of the parishioners. Sisters gave presentations about the life of Blessed Josaphata and why she is a saintly woman whom we hope will be canonized soon.
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On October 30th, residents, family members and Sisters Servants dressed up for the annual Halloween party. Everyone enjoyed the costumes, socializing and food!
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On October 26th, over 200 people attended this 1st St. Joseph's October Fest, also enjoyed by the residents of St. Joseph's. This fundraiser was for the benefit of St. Joseph's Adult Care Home. The attendees commented on the delicious food and drink. Music and dancing were also included!
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On Sunday, October 19th, the pilgrimage icon of Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska with a 1st class relic, was warmly welcomed by Rev. Olvian Popovici and the parishioners of Holy Family parish. The Sisters were edified by the prayerful spirit of the large crowd of parishioners at the Divine Liturgies, as they reverently approached, prayed at and kissed or touched the relic of Blessed Josaphata. Sr. Kathleen and Sr. Tekla shared about the life and death of Blessed Josaphata and encouraged the parishioners to pray for a small or large miracle in their lives as a miracle has already been attributed to the intercession of Blessed Josaphata.
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Welcoming a special Icon of our Foundress Blessed Josaphata (which is traveling from Province to Province) brought from Brazil by Sr. Maria Zelia at JFK. The meaning of this special moment is that we are getting ready to celebrate 125 years of our Community in 2017 and the meaning of the Icon traveling from Province to Province, is that our Foundress Blessed Josaphata was not able to visit all the Provinces so now we are visited by her Icon and her First Class Relic.
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Approximately 3400 people, 15 buses and 947 cars, attended the 60th Dormition Pilgrimage in Sloatsburg on Aug. 9 & 10. God blessed the pilgrimage with beautiful weather as well as many graces.
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On August 2nd, the SSMI's, joined by their General Superior, Sr. Theresa Slota from Rome, Italy along with Bishop Paul, Bishop Basil, clergy, family and friends to celebrate their jubilarians: Sr. Bonaventure - 80 years of Religious Life, Sr. Albina - 70 years of Religious Life and Sr. Tekla - 25 years of Religious Life. A beautiful Divine Liturgy was celebrated at St. Mary's Villa, followed by a festive dinner Mnohaya Lita!
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Sisters from the USA Province, Lay Associates and some sisters from the Canadian Province together with some guests welcomed Sr. Teresa Ann Slota who came to celebrate and give thanks to God with us for our Jubilarians Sr. Bonaventure, Sr. Albina and Sr. Tekla and to celebrate with us the 60th Holy Dormition Pilgrimage
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Due to a full calendar, the Sisters Servants celebrated Bishop Paul's feast day (which was on June 29th) on July 24th. The festivities began with Bishop Paul celebrating the Divine Liturgy. The sisters and Bishop Paul enjoyed a festive dinner and then the sisters gave a short program honoring Bishop Paul.
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Thank you all who came to support us and a big thank you to our Sisters, Lay Associates and Volunteers who put so much effort to prepare this day from special decoration of the tables, appetizers to desserts... May God bless and reward all of you with health and long life for your dedication and support to our St. Joseph's Adult Care Home... Everyone did have a wonderful time... Was worthy to prepare this day...
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The Ukrainian Dancing youth groups from Spring Valley and local areas, who practice every Friday night in the Activity Room at St. Joseph's Home performed for the residents and sisters as a thank you for the year. The group entertained us and provided a delicious supper. We'll see them back in September.
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Bishop Paul Chomnycky, Fr. Ed Young and Fr. Niranjan Rodrigo joined the Sisters Servants, the residents of St. Joseph's Home and their families to a great Memorial Day picnic at St. Joseph's Home. Everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather, delicious food and good company and remembered all the men and women who gave their lives for our freedoms.
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On April 6th, 17 teenagers from the parishes of Passaic, Ramsey, Spring Valley, Yonkers and Middletown participated in a special Teen Reflection day, offered by the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate at St. Mary's Villa. Sr. Eliane, SSMI and Sr. Tekla, SSMI conducted this prayerful experience. They focused the day on the story of Zacchaeus, explaining that we are all invited by Jesus: Come down immediately, I want to stay at your house! In the morning the group was invited to participate in morning prayer, and then participated in the Divine Liturgy together with the members of LUC, which was celebrated by the Rev. Father Appleyard. During his Sunday homily Fr. Appleyard, reminded everyone and especially the teens that everything in life comes after a little sacrifice, like sports which need a lot of training and preparation. The teens reminded one another during the day of father's word during his homily: No Pain, No Gain. After the Divine Liturgy the participants reflected on the Story of Zacchaeus, played by teen parishioners from St. Nicholas, Passaic, NJ. The girls and boys learned that Zacchaeus teaches us to learn to listen for the voice of God in our personal lives and respond without holding anything back. He also teaches us to look for Jesus along the road of life. In the afternoon the group of retreatants enjoyed popcorn while watching the movie Facing the Giants which was used later for reflection conducted by Sr. Kathleen Hustko, SSMI Provincial Superior about giving your best in all that you do, and that all things are possible with God. In bringing closure to the day, the group was invited for a Ritual of Reconciliation. Each participant wrote on a paper, anything that stops him/her from being closer to God or to spread God's word and love to others, starting in the family. The girls and boys then dropped their papers in to the fire pit acknowledging their desire to rid themselves of habits that draw them away from God and others. Finally, each participant was given an icon of Zacchaeus to take home with them reminding them that Jesus wants to stay close to them. We congratulate and thank the parents who took this opportunity to show their child how important is to give time for faith growth, as it is given to everything else.
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Right before the Divine Liturgy for Saint Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic School, Passaic, NJ on February 7, 2014, Rev. Andriy Dudkevych blessed 13 girls in grades 4-8 as Junior Sodalists of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. Most of these - Junior Sodalists are parishioners of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, with 4 of them as members of St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church, Newark, NJ and 2 from local Roman Catholic Parishes. They each received a blessed Marian medal and; a Sodality Sash of Dedication to wear during Divine Liturgy, especially on the Holy Feast Days of Mary. They promised, to the best of their ability, to give of themselves to Jesus through Mary. They aim to intensify their Baptismal commitment to live the Gospel message of Jesus as devout Catholics: with faith-in-action in their daily lives; to pray for those in need and; to volunteer to help the Church and others. Their guiding question is WWMD? What would Mary do? as the Theotokos, Mother of God, and as the first and best disciple of Jesus? During their time of preparation with monthly meetings at the Convent, under the guidance of Sr. Cecelia Sworin, SSMI and the volunteered assistance of Mrs. Patricia Balzarek, these Junior Sodalists offered intercessory prayer through Mary, helped to decorate St. Nicholas Church for Christmas and undecorated under the leadership of Mrs. Lecia Peltytshyn, and enjoyed one another during a Christmas Tree Decorating Party at the convent. Now, they will continue their life journey as Beloved Daughters of God and Mary. Soon, girls in 3rd grade will begin to learn the life of a Junior Sodalist of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. Many of these Junior Sodalists are continuing the legacy of their Mothers, who were Sodalists while they were at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic School. May God grant them many happy, blessed years, for this is one way of promoting a Vibrant Parish. Дай їм Бог багато щасливих благословенних років!
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Catholic Schools Week celebration included: Opening with Divine Liturgy on Saturday Jan. 25. Pajama/slippers day/ 8th-graders read a story or did an activity with grades PreK - Gr. 4; Academic Trivia games for gr. 5-8. Red,White, and Blue Day/Thank a Soldier Day and gifts collected to them. Gym Olympics, Olympic school photo - kids made rings by colors. Souper Bowl Day the children brought in can of soup; football jerseys/sports shirts; Facing the Giants movie for gr 5 -8 (other movies for lower grades). Family Bingo Night/distribution of Honor Roll certificates, Special Friends Day a grandparent, aunt/uncle, or friend for hot chocolate and cookies after lunch and "Snakes-N-Scales" Show
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On January 19th, the Sisters Servants celebrated Metropolitan Archbishop Stefan Soroka's feast day at St. Mary's Vila in Sloatsburg, NY. The Sisters enjoy preparing a program each year to honor Metropolitan's Stefan's patron Saint as well as to acknowledge and thank the Archbishop for his spiritual guidance to us and the Church. This years program focused on a 'Getting to Know St. Stephen' quiz, which was enjoyed by all.
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The Sisters Servants gathered in Sloatsburg to prepare for and renew their profession of vows, as they do each year on the feast of the Immaculate Conception, the feast of their Province. On Dec. 7th, they gathered for a Holy Hour and then on Sunday, Dec. 8th, Bishop Paul Chomnycky celebrated the 10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy at St. Joseph's Home during which each Sister renewed her vows of obedience, chastity and poverty. A delicious brunch was enjoyed followed the Divine Liturgy.
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The Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate gathered in Sloatsburg during Thanksgiving to pray, reflect and conduct their Community Days from Nov. 27 -29, 2013. The gathering had a three-fold purpose with the first being a presentation by Sr. Christina Syrotynsky, SSMI, from our Christ the King Province in Canada, explaining the changes in the new Constitutions of the Congregation, which empower us with renewed energy and enthusiasm to continue the journey we have vowed to live fully. The business session discussed community matters such as the celebration of the 60th Dormition Pilgrimage, and ways to prepare for the 125th Jubilee of the Congregation in 2017. The final segment focused on praying, reflecting and discussing viable ways to continue our mission. The days were full but also filled with openness, vision and a joy that there was still work to do and we will continue to say yes.
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On November 24th the Sisters Servants held their annual Tricky Tray (Chinese Auction) at St. Mary's Villa for the benefit of St. Mary's Spiritual and Educational Center. It was a cold, windy day but the attendance was to FULL CAPACITY as the participants know that the prizes are worth the effort. We thank all of the volunteers, Lay Associates and the participants for making this another successful fundraiser.
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On June 27, 2001, Pope John Paul II beatified Sister Josaphata Hordashevska, the foundress of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate, giving her the title Blessed one step closer to her canonization. He also designated her birthday, November 20th, as her day of celebration. This year the Sisters Servants of the Immaculate Conception Province in the USA celebrated November 20th by spreading Blessed Josaphatas intercession and prayer in various ways throughout the province. The sisters visited people in their homes, nursing home uplifting them with food nourishment as well as spiritual nourishment. The sisters also celebrated Blessed Josaphata with the staff at the Stamford Eparchial Chancery and Seminary gifting them with a Josaphata candle, medal and holy cards. The students in our St. Nicholas School in Passaic, NJ were brought to the convent to learn more about Blessed Josaphata as they viewed the DVD about her life. Blessed Josaphata is beloved by our people, but there are still many who do not know about this Woman for All Times, whom we hope will be canonized by the year 2017, the 125th Jubilee of the Congregation of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate.
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Residents are helped to get ready for Halloween by decorating their personal pumpkins. All with the help of some apple cider and fresh cinnamon donuts. Helen's granddaughter Donna Matthews and her daughter Nicole were among the talented instructors as well as Malvena's family namely, her daughter Margie Marin and her daughter (Mal's granddaughter) Emily Marin Clifford and husband Christopher Clifford. What an array of decorated pumpkins have filled our dining room tables, bedrooms and hallways! Now to get ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner. Come see our house as we outdo the decorations this year....
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Twenty-Two SSMI's including the General Curia and the Provincials and representative from each Province in the Congregation gathered in Lviv for meetings in preparing for the upcoming 125th Anniversary and General Chapter in 2017. The group also used the opportunity for touring of various churches in Lviv as well as some of the SSMI homes in Lviv including the SSMI Provincial Home in Lviv and the Orphanage in Zolochev. We were also privileged to be in Lviv for Ukrainian Independence Day
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Sister Kathleen and Sister Eliane arrived in Kiev, Ukraine on August 15 to participate in the celebrations of this historic event in the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. The tens of thousands of people who attended the events throughout the 3-day celebration, was a very moving experience, showing that the faith of the people is very much alive. One of the highlights that the sisters attended was the Solemn blessing the Sobor Resurrection and a chance to meet with His Beatitude, Patriarch Sviatoslav. His Beatitude was present for the major events and spoke words of hope and encouragement to his faithful. His hands-on-presence during the celebrations is similar to Pope Francis personal contact with His people.
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The 59th Dormition Pilgrimage was a blessed event during the weekend of August 10 & 11. Approximately 3268 people traveled by plane, bus, train, car (815 cars) and even foot to experience God blessings as they attended the pilgrimage honoring the Mother of God. If you were not able to attend the pilgrimage, you can share in the experience through these pictures.
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As seen in the pictures, nearly 200 sisters, residents and their families, along with friends gathered for the 6th annual Family Day barbecue for St. Joseph's Adult Care Home. Everyone enjoyed the picnic area next to the home as well as the company their shared. The main attraction of a pig roast was a delight to all who came to eat.
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On August 3,2013, clergy, sisters, family and friends gathered to celebrate the Jubilees of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate for 2013 - Sr. Tharasia Hladio - 70 years, Sr. Bernitta Dub - 60 years, Sr. Consolata Trudick - 60 years and Sr. Stephanie Sema - 60 years. The celebrants for the 11:00 Divine Liturgy were Archbishop Stefan Soroka, Bishop Paul Chomnycky, Bishop Emeritus Basil Losten, Msgr. John Terlecky, Rev. Edward Young and Rev. Max Kobasuk.
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I would just say... Residents enjoy the 4th of July outdoors with a barbecue, toasted marshmallows, water balloons and bubbles throughout the day and evening. Food was great and company was even better!
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On June 29th, the feast of SS Peter & Paul, we were honored to have Bishop Paul Chomnycky with us to celebrate his feast day. Bishop Paul celebrated the 4:00 p.m Divine Liturgy, giving us an inspiring homily about the life and struggles of St. Paul. We then enjoyed a delicious meal at St. Mary's Villa. Before dessert, the sisters entertained Bishop Paul with an informative and fun program,honoring his patron saint as well as Bishop Paul. The wonderful evening was continued at the Sloatsburg Community Park as Bishop Paul and several sisters and Lay Associates attended the St. Joan of Arc Parish festival. (You can view pictures on facebook and our website)
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Archbishop Stefan Soroka, Sr. Kathleen Hutsko, SSMI and Sr. Michele Yakymovitch, SSMI enjoy a lighter moment during the Stamford Eparchial Sobor held April 18-20, 2013. Sr. Michele was on the Executive Committee of the Sobor and Sr. Kathleen was a delegate.
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On Saturday, March 23, 2013, Twelve of our SSMI Lay Associates attended a Day of Reflection directed by Sr. Natalya, SSMI. During a prayer service they made a renewal of their committment as Lay Associates for one year, in the presence of Sr. Kathleen, SSMI - Provincial Superior. The Lay Associates play a very important role in assisting the sisters in their ministry and participate in their prayer life too.
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All of the Sisters Servants were gathered at Sloatsburg for the Christmas holidays and conducted a Community Workshop Day on December 27, 2012. Sr. Janice Soluk, SSMI from our Canadian Province gave a presentation entitled "Managing Change Successfully." During the day the sisters gathered in groups to share ways of implementing change and growth within the community in order to be more effective in their ministry to people.
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Bishop Paul Chomnycky, OSBM was the celebrant for the 11:00 Divine Liturgy at St. Mary's Villa celebrating Sr. Kathleen's feast day. Following the Divine Liturgy, the sisters and guests preformed a wonderful program displaying the creativity of the Sisters Servants. Following the program, everyone enjoyed a delicious meal.
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Christmas is a time to celebrate and the Sisters took the opportunity to celebrate the feast of the Vice-Provincial Sr. Stephanie Sema, SSMI and the birthday of Sr. Janice Soluk, SSMI.
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On December 28, 2012, Archbishop Stefan Soroka joined the Sisters Servants as their guest to celebrate his Feast Day - St. Stephen. The Archbishop thoroughly enjoyed the sisters' program which was based on the Scripture passage from Ephesians 6 about "putting on the armor of Christ." At the end of the festivities, Archbishop Stefan spoke works of gratitude and inspiration to the Sisters.
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The Christmas spirit comes early to St. Joseph's as the Sai Baba group from Connecticut comes to carol for the sisters and residents on Dec. 3rd. Not only do they carol but Santa has gifts for everyone. Viewers keep your eyes on the site as more groups throughout the month will visit the residents of the home! On Dec. 6th St. Nicholas came to visit and brought everyone goody bags.
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The Sisters, residents of St. Joseph's Adult Care Home and family and friends enjoyed a delicious turkey dinner and all its trimmings, along with good company.
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On Sunday, Nov. 18th, eager participants entered St. Mary's Villa to buy and place their tickets in their "Christmas wishes." The Sisters Servants are grateful to the many volunteers and benefactors who helped make this a successful event
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All of the residents at St. Joseph's took part in the annual St. Joseph's Halloween party in some way. Some of the Sisters Servants also got dressed up, can you name them?
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The residents enjoyed picking pumpkins and then sat down for a delicious donut and apple cider. Some of the residents enjoyed taking pictures among the ghosts and goblins at Auntie El's. Sisters, staff and residents had a great time together.
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Sr. Thomas Hrynewich, SSMI attended the 74th Annual LUC Convention in Wilkes Barre, PA, October 13 & 14, 2012. The Theme of the Convention was "Our Faith and Heritage". The theme reflected the Year of Faith and the Vibrant Parish - a place to encounter Christ. Sr. Thomas talk at the banquet on Saturday evening was "A Vibrant LUC in a Vibrant Parish in a Vibrant Church - a place to Encounter Christ.
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On September 28-30, women from St. Michael's Parish in Passaic, NJ attended a retreat at St. Mary's Villa, under the direction of Sr. Natalya Stoczanyn, SSMI. "Women of Faith" as the group called them selves is part of their committment in responding to the call of renewal of Evangelization by the Holy Father with the opening of the "Year of Faith" and the Eastern Catholic Bishops call for "Vibrant Parishes." The women experienced much peace and renewal as they spent time in prayer and listening to Sr. Natalya's presentations. The group is already looking forward to their retreat next year and will open it up to women from other parishes!.
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Over 3500 pilgrims attended the 58th Annual Dormition Pilgrimage in Sloatsburg, NY, which was blessed by God with beautiful weather. The workshops on Saturday focused on the Vibrant Parish- a place to encounter the Living Christ and one could see that happening throughout the weekend as dedicated priests sat for hours in the warm sun confessing thousands of pilgrims. Once again Metropolitan Stefan Soroka, Bishop Paul Chomnycky and Bishop Emeritus Basil Losten graced the pilgrimage with there presence. The pilgrims attending the Pontifical Divine Liturgy on Sunday were nourished by receiving the Holy Eucharist but they were also nourished by the spiritually uplifting homily of Bishop Richard Seminack, Eparchy of Chicago. Young and not so young prayed, talked and enjoyed each other on this weekend at the holy mountain of Sloatsburg.
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On July 28, 2012, the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate, along with family and guests celebrated 330 years of dedicated service in the lives of Sr. Bernardine Symionow, and Sr. Clare Holak each celebrating 60 years of Religious LIfe and Sr. Juliette Chicorli, Sr. Longina Gawrylow and Sr. Thomas Hrynewich each celebrating 70 years. These five sisters answered and lived God's call in their own special way, but there is one word which weaves itself through each of the lives of these five jubiliarians: COURAGE, Courage in a time when what they believed in and lived faithfully for is being attacked by some in our government; Courage as our numbers dwindle, Courage, as they grow older, Courage as choose to be warriors on the front line standing unafraid, not watchers on the sidelines. May God continue to bless you!
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On July 30, 2011, the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate in Sloatsburg, NY celebrated 130 years of service to God in the lives of Sister Bernard Chrunik and Sister Anne Roman. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Bishop Paul Chomnycky, Eparch of Stamford in the presence of the sisters, lay associates and friends. Sister Bernard Chrunik celebrated 80 years of Religious Life. She was born in Saskatoon, Canada and came to the United States in 1939, where the need was the greatest. Sr. Bernard spent most of her religious life in the field of education. When asked what her religious life has meant to her, Sister Bernard responded, God is the center of my life, He is my intimate best friend, my consoler, my shepherd, my protector, my guide and advisor, especially the Holy Spirit, whom I invoke when I am searching for help in my work of spiritual matters. Community for me is a God-chosen vocation where I felt at home, where I am extremely happy. It is my home, my joy and my love forever here in America. Sister Anne Roman, SSMI celebrated 50 years of Religious Life, her Golden Jubilee. Sr. Anne is a native of Rochester, NY. Sr. Anne's life-time ministry in education as a teacher and/or Principal all of her religious life has spanned over the years to the point that she has taught generations of families. In his homily, Bishop Paul compared Sisters Anne and Bernard to the women in the Old Testament who lived outside the box, and didn't do what was expected of them in their era, but what God called them to do. So too, Sisters Anne and Bernard were counter-culture in entering the congregation and educating the hearts of our people. In her greetings, Sr. Kathleen Hutsko, Provincial Superior, thanked Sr. Anne and Sr. Bernard for responding to the words of our foundress, Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska, to go where the need is the greatest and because these sisters touched thousands of children's minds and hearts, they have touched thousands of lives forever.
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Feast of St. Peter and Paul, Sisters Servants welcomed Bishop Paul Chomnycky, OSBM, Eparch of Stamford to Sloatsburg for his feastday. Sisters also acknowledged the fifth anniversary of Bishop Paul to the Stamford Diocese.
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Instalation of the new Provincial Council for the term June 28 2011- 2016. Sr. Kathleen, Provincial Superior's twin brothers Fr. Basil and Fr. Joseph, Fr. Roberto Lucavei, OSBM, Fr. Januarius Lucavei, OSBM and Fr. Mario Dacechen, OSBM celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Various greetings were read and congratulations given as the oath of the office was taken by the new Provincial Council. The sisters welcomed Sr. Kathleen to her new home - the Provincial house where a barbecue was enjoyed by all.
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Calendar Party 2011 another smashing success with lots of laughter, good friends, and a variety of foods from Appetizers such as shrimp, cheese cake dip, fresh fruits, and asparagus tubes. Desserts ranged from Alaska's moose, to New York cheese cake, Pennsylvania shoe fly pie, to Arizona cinnamon ice cream with apple pie tortillas. Oh yes, what would Florida be like without Mickey Mouse cake for dessert? A big round of thanks to all for their support as the fifth calendar party passes us by and we look forward to another next year.
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Throughout the Province, each and every home honored Blessed Josaphata around and on April 7th. The day marked 72 years since her death at the age of 50. Children and Adults come to know Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska in a much deeper way. Many friends of the sisters in their local neighborhoods had a first time experience of coming to know who this first SSMI-Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska was. For many such as Minersville, Auburn and Sloatsburg theirs was an impacted and memorable experience as they were able to venerate the first class relic of Blessed Josaphata. June 27 will mark her feast day that Pope John Paul II proclaimed in 2001 when he beatified her.
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January 16, 2011, the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate visited their last parish in this their jubilee year celebration; the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia, PA. A span of 70 years, 1937 to 2008 is the length of time that the Sisters ministered first on Brown Street with the elderly and women without lodging who worked in the factories and then to the 8th Street Convent when the Immaculate Conception school was opened and finally on 805 Franklin St., their final home before their departure from Philadelphia. The sisters were honored to not only have worked closely with the many priests of the Philadelphia Archeparchy but also the hierarchs from Constantine Bohachevsky to the present day, Most Reverend Stefan Soroka. The ministry of the sisters in Philadelphia was teaching catechism in the nearby parishes of St. Josaphat in Frankfort, Melrose Park and Wilmington, DE as well as the cathedral parish. When the school closed in 1994, the sisters began to work in the Chancery catechetical department, Safe Environment Protecting God's Children office, Youth ministry. Sr. Thomas Hrynewich served as Assistant Chancellor and Chancellor for Metropolitan Sulyk as well as Metropolitan Soroka. She was the first woman to hold this position in our church! Though the sisters no longer minister in the Cathedral parish, the memories are far too many to forget. The lives of so many priests and laity they touched throughout the years is a lasting grace to be forever cherished. It is the events of the Archeparchy of Philadelphia, the Metropolia of our Ukrainian Catholic Church, that will always bring us back to Philadelphia and the Cathedral.
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January 15, 2010 Sisters Servants returned to SS. Peter & Paul parish in Wilkes Barre, PA. after being away from the parish since 1952. Sisters returned to the parish in this time of their jubilee, to thank the parish for being a part of their community history. It is a history that spanned the years of 1939 to 1952 as well as acknowledging and thanking God for the vocation to the SSMI from their parish in the name of Sister Oksana (Mary) Iwasczyyszyn. It was a momentous moment when Sr. Bonaventure Kalawsky, one of the sisters who first opened the mission in 1939 returned this day to the parish along with Sr. Anisia Symionow another of the sisters who taught in Willkes Barre. Six former students of Sister Bonaventure came this evening to greet their one-time teacher! An enjoyable and memorable event was celebrated as Pastor, Father Orest Kunderevych and parishioners welcomed the Sisters Servants to their small hometown parish.
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On July 30, 2011, the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate in Sloatsburg, NY celebrated 130 years of service to God in the lives of Sister Bernard Chrunik and Sister Anne Roman. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Bishop Paul Chomnycky, Eparch of Stamford in the presence of the sisters, lay associates and friends. Sister Bernard Chrunik celebrated 80 years of Religious Life. She was born in Saskatoon, Canada and came to the United States in 1939, where the need was the greatest. Sr. Bernard spent most of her religious life in the field of education. When asked what her religious life has meant to her, Sister Bernard responded, God is the center of my life, He is my intimate best friend, my consoler, my shepherd, my protector, my guide and advisor especially the Holy Spirit, whom I invoke when I am searching for help in my work of spiritual matters. Community for me is a God-chosen vocation where I felt at home, where I am extremely happy. It is my home, my joy and my love forever here in America. Sister Anne Roman, SSMI celebrated 50 years of Religious Life, her Golden Jubilee. Sr. Anne is a native of Rochester, NY. Sr. Anne's life-time ministry in education as a teacher and/or Principal all of her religious life has spanned over the years to the point that she has taught generations of families. In his homily, Bishop Paul compared Sisters Anne and Bernard to the women in the Old Testament who lived outside the box, and didn't do what was expected of them in their era, but what God called them to do. So too, Sisters Anne and Bernard were counter-culture in entering the congregation and educating the hearts of our people. In her greetings, Sr. Kathleen Hutsko, Provincial Superior, thanked Sr. Anne and Sr. Bernard for responding to the words of our foundress, Blessed Josaphata Hordashevska, to go where the need is the greatest and because these sisters touched thousands of children's minds and hearts, they have touched thousands of lives forever.
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The tenth Provincial Chapter of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate was held in Sloatsburg over the Christmas holidays, December 27 through the 31st with the theme: Restoring our SSMI spirit, We become bearers of Hope. Twenty-six sisters participated in the chapter that began each day with the Divine Liturgy celebrated by the Eparch of the Stamford diocese, Bishop Paul Chomnycky, OSBM. Following the Liturgy with reflections from the gospel, sisters were led into the chapter proceedings by facilitators, Sr. Frances O'Brien and Barbara Baker from Kingston, Ontario. The chapter convened to elect a new leadership team (Provincial Superior, Vice Provincial/First Councilor, 2nd, 3rd and Fourth Councilors) for the next five years 2011-2016. Also delegates and deputies were chosen to attend the General Chapter to be held in Rome, Italy the month of July 2011 when a new Superior General and council are elected for the congregation. Discernment, prayer and discussion took place throughout the week, not only to elect new leadership, but to plan the future of the SSMI, their viability, a vocation culture, on-going formation and a directional statement for its members. The new leadership of the Sisters Servants will take their oath of office and transfer of leadership on June 28, 2011.
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Sr. Michele Yakymovitch, Provincial Superior, travelled to Curitiba Brazil, honored to celebrate the 100 anniversary of SSMI serving God's people. Under the patronage of St. Michael the Archangel, Sisters Servants came to Brazil in 1911. Today it is the largest province of Sisters Servants in the world. Amidst celebrations, the Provincial Superiors who travelled to Brazil were able to experience first hand the life of the sisters as they met children in the schools of Prudentopolis, Marcondes, Sao Paulo, Curitiba, Uniao da Victoria, the retreat house in Ponto Grossa named after the foundress, Sr. Josaphata Hordashevska and Bom Jesus Hospital. Sisters were welcomed in Ivai home to the postulants and novices of the community. Always the sisters were welcomed with open arms and hosted to delicious meals. A memorable highlight of the celebration was in Prudentopolis where the first four sisters settled. The townspeople reenacted the welcome they received 100 years ago when the farmers brought the sisters on wagon through the town streets with women and children waving their approval from street corners. The same city of Prudentopolis, in a downtown auditorium, hosted a gathering of 900 children from around Brazil taught by the Sisters Servants to entertain guests with the story of Creation to the present day settlement of SSMI in Brazil. A most touching and memorable event! Not only was the celebration of 100 years of the Brazilian province held, but sisters found the opportunity to celebrate, Superior General, Sister Janice Soluk's feastday as well as Sr. Michele's feastday among the sisters. One celebration after another to truly enjoy the fruits of beautiful Brazil as well as the well known 'churrasco' (open pit barbecue). An added treat, was a day spent at the famous shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Aparecida. As part of the month long celebration, the Mass celebrated at the Basilica was shown on live television. Among the memorable sites, sisters I met, celebrations I attended and special people I met, was Sr. Eliane Ilnitski's entire family of mom, dad, niece, three sisters and two of their husbands. One evening of supper was enjoyed at their home eating and talking, eating and talking the night long! All in all, although it was an extremely long flight for someone who does not like to fly, it was a treasured and memorable experience, one that can only happen in an international community like the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate!
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Sisters visited the parish family at St. John the Baptist Church, Detroit, Michigan on Sunday, September 27th. A parish picnic was being held where the Sisters Servants were welcomed and honored for their years of mission work to the parish. The sisters were at St. John's from 1937 until 1994. In 1984 when the school closed, Sr. Vincent Yaremovich and Sr. Demetriada Rychkun remained with the parish community in visiting the sick, teaching catechism to the children etc. When pastor, Fr. Mario Dacechen arrived, the sisters taught him the English language and showed him the streets and avenues that parishioners lived on. With much sadness and regret the sisters left St. John the Baptist parish after 57 years of working and ministering to the people of St. John's.
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June 13, 2010 the Sisters Servants spent the day celebrating with the Patronage of the Mother of God parish family in Marion Heights, PA or Keiser, PA. as it was called long ago. The sisters were welcomed by substitute priest Fr. Danniel Troyan, native son of the parish and former student of the sisters. Fr. Krawchuk, pastor was on vacation. Parishioners warmly greeted sisters following the Divine Liturgy with a full array of sweets as they gathered to remember days long gone by. The sisters first arrived in Marion Heights in September 1939 with an evening school that opened into an all day school one year later. The school opened with 95 children. By 1960 school buildings had changed along with the convent and the sisters lived in Shamokin commuting daily to the Heights. Unfortunately 1968 saw the closing of the school and the departure of the sisters. Contacts with friends, former students and neighbors continued throughout the years.
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Sunday, May 16, 2010 the Sisters Servants visited St. Vladimir Cathedral and St. Basil Seminary in Stamford, Conn. In this their jubilee year, Stamford visit became very momentous since it was 75 years ago that the first SSMI came to the United States. Stamford became their first mission in the U.S. as they ministered to the seminarians and priests. From this very mission the SSMI branched out into other parts of the U.S. realizing the many ministries, parishes and people whom they have ministered to throughout these years. Father Ihor Midzak, Rector of St. Vladimir Cathedral welcomed the sisters most graciously. He himself had been taught by the sisters in the Philadelphia Cathedral school. He spoke of his personal experience of having the sisters pray for him when he studied in Rome.
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Lay Associates of the Sisters Servants gathered in Sloatsburg the weekend of April 30-May 2, 2010. Eight members renewed their one year commitment as eight new members made a one year commitment. Unfortunate circumstances prevented the others from joining the group which would have been an additional eight members, who will meet at a later date. The Lay Associates gathered to enrich their life by the presentations offered during the weekend, make friends with the new members, rekindle friendship with the existing members, get first-hand information from new member Susan who just returned from Haiti and make plans for the upcoming retreat and pilgrimage with the Sisters.
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As Transfiguration parish in Shamokin, PA. celebrate their 125th anniversary, so too the Sisters Servants celebrated their jubilee with the parish family. SSMI have been in Shamokin since 1940, 70 years celebrating their life amidst the parish and grateful to the vocations that have come from the parish to the Sisters Servants. Also Sr. Michele had the opportunity to visit the children at K4 program.
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The sisters and residents were honored to pray Holy Week and Easter services with the Reverend Archpriest Michael Hutsko, from the Archeparchy of Philadelphia.
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Anticipating Spring after a long hard winter, the Sisters opened their doors to their neighbors from Sloatsburg, Tuxedo, Suffern and Mahwah New Jersey. Seventy-five and counting friends came for coffee and cake as they toured St. Mary's Villa, once home to the Hamilton Morgan family. Walking through the halls and rooms of St. Joseph's Home was hard to believe it too was once a stable for the Hamilton Morgan family! Everyone returned home, hard to believe that a small family occupied such a large mansion with seventeen bathrooms, bedrooms for fifty-four servants and nearly two thousand acres of land to call home. Though the outdoors was a dull Palm Sunday with rain sprinkles everyone saw the possibilities of a nearby haven for quiet walks, outdoor stations of cross during this approaching Holy Week and just to sit and enjoy the beauty of God's creation.
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Seventeen Sisters Servants along with their Lay Associates, Helen Fedoriw and Marion Hrubec celebrated the community jubilee in St. Nicholas parish, Minersville, PA. Sisters began their teaching ministry in 1939. Nearly 70 years later two sisters continue in the parish with teaching religion to all the school children and another sister involved in parish ministry visiting the homebound, hospitals and nursing homes. Father Mark Fesniak welcomed the sisters as they met with former students and their families. In many cases there were three generations of a family that had been taught by the sisters!
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We welcome Sr. Michele Yakymovitch, Provincial Superior, and the other Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate who are visiting our Church today and tomorrow, Saturday & Sunday, February 13th & 14th, 2010 as part of their 50th & 75th Jubilee Celebrations. Sister Michele and the Sisters are coming here to thank us for allowing their Sisters to be in our Parish for the past five years, thus, being part of their Congregation's history. In the words of Rev. Ivan Mazuryk.
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Though Sisters Servant presently teach at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic School in Passaic, more than twelve sisters returned along with Provincial Superior, Sr. Michele Yakymovitch, to greet them on the SSMI jubilee. This year St. Nicholas parish also celebrates their centennial. Sr. Michele thanked the parish for their many blessings they have shared with the community. Sisters have been in the parish since 1939. Many of the parishioners were instrumental in helping to build up the Sloatsburg property which is considered "holy ground" to many who make the annual Dormition Pilgrimage. The ladies of the parish "pyrohu workers" have given thousands upon thousands of pyrohu to the sisters for this pilgrimage. Sr. Michele went on to acknowledge the number of young girls who have graduated from St. Mary Villa Academy from the parish. The history is long and vibrant which is the hope that it may continue for many more years to come.
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Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate were privileged to be among the honored guests to celebrate the 85th anniversary of St. John the Baptist Church in Riverhead, New York on Sunday, October 25. Prior to being appointed Pastor of St. John the Baptist Church, Father Vasyl Kornitsky was chaplain to the Sisters Servants in Sloatsburg, New York. Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate were privileged to be among the honored guests to celebrate the 85th anniversary of St. John the Baptist Church in Riverhead, New York on Sunday, October 25. Prior to being appointed Pastor of St. John the Baptist Church, Father Vasyl Kornitsky was chaplain to the Sisters Servants in Sloatsburg, New York.
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September 27, 2009 weekend Sisters Servants along with Lay Associates, Marion Hrubec and Helen Fedoriw gathered at Sts. Peter & Paul parish in Ambridge, PA. with Father Michael Polowsky and Father Walter Wysochansky and their parish family. Sr. Michele Yakymovitch, Provincial Superior, spoke of life in the parish when the sisters ministered there from 1939 to 1977 when the school closed. Five vocations to the SSMI have come from among them: Sr. Thomas Hrynewich, +Sr. Anna Duda, Sr. Tharasia Hladio, Sr. Bernitta Dub and Sr. Barbara Stefaniak. *** SISTERS WILL RETURN TO VISITING THE PARISHES AFTER THE NEW YEAR ***
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Leaving St. George parish and Sheptysky Arms in 2001 after serving the parish since 1986, Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate returned to Pittsburgh, PA. to express their gratitude. Sr. Michele Yakymovitch, Provincial Superior, along with Sr. Consolata Trudick, Sr. Bernardine Symionow and Sr. Cecelia Sworin (they managed the HUD high rise throughout the years) returnred to the parish on September 27th. Amidst a luncheon prepared by the parish, everyone enjoyed the DVD presentation highlighting the Sisters Servants history in the U.S. these last 75 years.
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We welcome the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate to our Parish today and together celebrate a double jubilee of theirs, i.e. 50 years when the Province in Sloatsburg, NY was established and 75 full years of ministry in the United States! We are honored to have them worship with us and especially thank them for the many good things they have done through the years but specifically here at our parish. We also pray that Almighty God continue to grace the Sisters with many years of success and blessings in the future. MNOHAYA LITA!!! In the words of Rev. Joseph Szupa, Pastor.
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The weekend of August 14-16, 2009 Alumni from St. Mary's Villa Academy gathered at the Villa to meet old classmates and faculty, walk down memory lane and establish new friendships with lasting memories. Highlights of the weekend were a Divine Liturgy, outdoor barbecue and banquet honoring all those in attendance which numbered seventy five. Graduates came as close as Greenwood Lake, New Jersey and as far as Phoenix, Arizona, California and Edmonton, Canada
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Today our parish has the privilege and the honor to host a very special and dear guest of ours: The Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate. During the year 2009-2010 the SSMI, here in USA, are celebrating two meaningful jubilees. As part of these anniversaries, the Sisters Servants are visiting all Communities and Parishes, where they had any missionary work. Nativity of the BVM, still in Paulina Street, had the service of the Sisters for 18 years... Dear Sisters, we take great pride to join you in these celebrations and take this opportunity to extend to you our most cordial Welcome back! and Thank You! Through the years of service at Nativity, on Paulina Street, the Sisters have become partakes and shares of our own missionary work and service to the Ukrainian Catholic Church. Beloved Provincial Superior Sister Michele, through your guidance and motherly care may the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate of the American Province continue to serve the needs of the people of God, where ever they are. We extend to you and all the Sisters our best wishes, the assurance of our prayers and our gratitude. (Words of Rev. Varcilio Basil Salkovski, OSBM Pastor)
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Commemorating the Jubille year, sisters traveled to Washington, DC for the day. They were joined by Lay Associates, employees and volunteers of the Community.
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During the Celebration Bishop Paul blessed the new "Kadylo" censor- a gift given by the Niagara Frontier Buffalo LUC during the Community Jubilee year. Many of the Lay Associates were among those who celebrated with Bishop Paul. Sr. Michele spoke of Bishop Paul as gift to "all" in this year honoring Priesthood.
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Sisters taught Catechism, Evening School, Ridna Shkola and Day School in the Parish from February 1941 until the school closed in 1986. They visited families throughout the Buffalo area, Lancaster, Lackawanna and Niagara Falls. Not only parishioners, but also the Niagara Frontier LUC welcomed the Sisters.
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The Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate had been in the Parish from 1941-2001.
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Rev. Mitred Archpriest Msgr. John Terlecky welcomed the Sisters as they expressed their gratitude for being in the parish. 1949-1955 Sisters began night school. 1965 day school was opened, from Kindergarden to Grade Eight. Sisters ministered in the parish until 1986.
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The Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate, come to us to say "Thank You" for having served in our parish school from 1953 to 1985! This year the Sisters celebrate 50 years as a Province in the U.S. Next year, 2010, will mark their 75 years of ministry of which our parish has experienced. Our Parish Family of St. Michael's extends a BIG "Thank You" to the good Sisters for their dedicated presence and ministry among us! We love the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate.
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Over 100 women gathered for the theme: "Grief to Grace" with the speaker Kimberly Hashin, MD parishioner of St. Nicholas Parish, Minersville, PA.
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The Christmas Holidays provided the opportunity for the Sisters to gather in preparation for their 2009/2010 double Jubilee. Facilitators - Sr. Frances O'Brien and Barbara Baker led the sisters into a journey of the past 75 graced years. Sr. Michele, Provincial Superior, shared ideas of how the jubilee would be spent in a spirit of gratitude for the past and renewed hope and expectations for the future.
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It's a tradition of ours to have parties for special anniversaries!
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The Sodality is a religious body for girls which fosters an ardent devotion, reverence and filial love toward the Mother of God. The sodalist is a very close friend or associate, a companion of the Mother of God. The motto being, �To Jesus through Mary�, sodalists strive to be role models for others in Christian living. Sisters train altar servers to serve at Divine Liturgy and other religious services. Altar servers prepare the altar and sanctuary before Divine Liturgy and assist the priest during and after Liturgy. Altar servers also take part in processions by carrying the cross, kadilo, holy water, and candles. First Confession and First Communion Day is an important one in a child's life. Our sisters help to make the event special and meaningful by training the young students to take part in the ceremony, and more importantly, teaching the child the meaning of the Holy Eucharist.
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The loyal and hardworking League of Ukrainian Catholics (LUC) and other lay volunteers (all of whom we love and could not do without!). We will also be adding more pictures of our dear family and friends.
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Christmas celebration included the Feast of St. Stephen, Patronal Feast Day of Metropolitan Stefan Soroka. Each home offered prayers of encouragement, hope and blessing for the upcoming year.
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The SSMI Lay Associate Program is an adjunct group designed for adult women and men who, though not members of the SSMI congregation, would like to live the SSMI charism. Our lay associates benefit from the spiritual treasury of the SSMI, gaining personal spiritual enrichment, while developing warm and long-lasting friendships with sisters and other lay associates.
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