“I'm thankful for my struggle because, without it, I wouldn't have stumbled across my strength."
— Anonymous

“There are many things that can only
be seen through eyes that have cried. "
— St. Oscar Romero
The Struggle We Share
They say there is strength in numbers. Our world is currently united in a struggle against the ravages of COVID-19. While some among us are more vulnerable to the disease, coronavirus discriminates against no one. We walk together in our ongoing efforts to stay healthy, to comfort the sick and dying, and to remain connected when, against every instinct, distanced is recommended. As inspiration as we struggle, Sister Pat Marie Buranosky recommends this video featuring voices from 50 different counties united in spirit and song.

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One-on-One with Our Sisters
The issue of racism is among the most complex in our world and undoubtedly taps into a hotbed of emotions for all of us. Beyond its political and cultural significance, racial inequality also is a spiritual issue. Here. a pair of our Sisters reflect on current events:
The Power of Words
"I recently read an article that made me think. When I first heard people saying 'Black Lives Matter," I, too, wanted to reply with 'All Lives Matter.' I also believe that 'Blue Lives Matter,' and, even more importantly, all life matters .

However, replying in such a way, the article notes, is a way of saying that the person's suffering is insignificant. For example, if I met a friend who said, 'I am worried. I am having cancer surgery next week,' I wouldn't reply with, 'Oh, lots of people I know have had cancer. Most of them recovered; some didn't and they died.' I certainly wouldn't be much of a sister or brother or even a friend to this person.

If a friend called and said, 'My mother passed away,' I wouldn't reply with, 'I know what you're going through. My mother died 20 years ago. Sometimes it seems like yesterday, and sometimes it seems like 20 years ago. You'll get used to it.' 

When a whole group of people say, 'Black Lives Matter,' it's up to me to do and say what I would say to either of the friends mentioned in the examples: 'I am so sorry. What can I do to help?'" 
— Sister Nancy Celaschi
Now More Than Ever
"I do agree with Sister Marguerite Stewart that we will be living a 'new normal' when the restrictions are lifted around the country. I feel that this pandemic has put us in a position to pay more attention to the present needs and struggles of our relatives, friends and my sisters in community, as well as those of people around the world. 

At the same time, we are dealing with the need for reform in our justice system for equality and justice for all, and especially an end to racial discrimination, violence and whatever destroys peace. This pandemic has helped me to realize more than ever before how much we all need God’s help and each other."
— Sister Karen Buco
Sister Patricia Ann Mahoney has drawn strength from the following scripture passage included in a Mass reading during the recent week after Pentecost:

"For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice,
but rather of power and love and self-control.
So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord ...
but bear your share of hardship for the Gospel
with the strength that comes from God."
 — 2 Timothy 1:7-8
Join Us on the Green
Our Sisters will host our 22nd Annual Golf Outing on Saturday, August 29, in Pittsburgh. This important fundraiser will support our ministries and good works in the world. Learn more and register online to golf, sponsor, donate or volunteer.
Jubiliarian Spotlight
Join us each Wednesday in congratulating each of our 2020 Jubilarians as they celebrate milestones in religious life amid the extraordinary circumstances of 2020. Today, meet Sister Jeanne Marie Ulica, who celebrates her 60th Jubilee this year.