“Don’t ask God why he’s allowing something
to happen. Ask him what he wants you
to learn and do in the midst of it.”
— Anonymous
Asking Why & Seeking God’s Answer
When we see others suffering or, ourselves, feel overwhelmed with struggles, part of our thought process usually includes asking “why?”

Why, God, is this happening to me?

Why is God, the God we love, allowing heartbreak and seemingly senseless tragedy to happen in our world?

Or — as is happening right now — why are we facing a health crisis the likes of which humans haven't experienced in 100 years or more?

Perhaps “why” is not the question we should be asking. We might better consider asking “how” or “what.” Our faith suggests there must surely be a higher purpose, a lesson to be learned, an evolution of spirit and soul to be experienced.

“The answer to why doesn’t help us heal,” suggests Laura Story in her 2018 Faith Gateway reflection When We Ask Why, God? Why? “But knowing that God’s glory can be displayed, even in the brokenness of our lives, gives us hope despite our circumstances. I promise you will find more purpose and joy in your life if you set aside the why and begin to ask how.”

Food for thought? Consider reading Laura's full reflection and exploring your own "why" questions by taking part in the self-discovery exercise she outlines within.
One-on-One with Our Sisters
As we endure the COVID-19 pandemic and other unrest in our country, our Sisters reflect on what brings them strength and solace, share fond memories, and offer wise words for our friends in faith.
As children prepare to return to school under extraordinary circumstances, please share a favorite back-to-school memory, either as a student or a teacher.
“On returning to school each year, I looked forward to getting my clothes and school supplies ready for the opening day of school. It was also a good feeling to know I would see my friends when school began. I also have those same feelings going back as a teacher.”
— Sister Maria Derecola
Due to COVID-19, families are spending more time at home these days. What's a favorite activity you did with your family when you were younger?
“Because we had a pedal organ and a self-player piano, we did a lot of singing together. The piano rolls had the lyrics printed on them — both religious and secular songs. I liked pretending I was the church organist. We also had a pool table. Games became competitive. My father was a champ at Checkers.”
— Sister Irene Novak

Are there any reflections that you find particularly inspirational during times of trouble?
“God has control of everything. We don't know what is going to happen next. So enjoy the life we have now. Don't worry about the next seconds.”
— Sister Gracy Kundukulam
A Unique Celebration
Over the past several weeks, we introduced you to our 2020 Jubiliarians who, due to COVID-19 restrictions, have been unable to have traditional celebrations this summer. This past weekend, Sisters Carol Ann Papp and Anita Kuchera hosted a very small gathering in Bethlehem, Pa. See the photos by clicking below.
The beloved carousel at Riverview Park in Pittsburgh closed in in 1938, but the park — and the memories — remain.
Rides at Riverview
As a native 'North-sider' in Pittsburgh, Pa., Sister Norberta Kralosky recalls family days spent at an urban oasis called Riverview Park: “One Sunday afternoon when I was about 3 years old, my father said to my mother, 'You had the kids all week. Today they are mine.' Off we trudged about three miles away to Riverview Park to ride the free merry-go-round. Allegheny County provided free rides to any children of the county on Sunday afternoons. The only rule was everyone had to get off at the end of the ride. We would get off and run to the waiting line for another ride. We very happily spent the afternoon riding the horses or waiting for more rides. What joy we four girls had on Sunday afternoons! On the way home, we stopped at a yard where a family had a cold stream running out of the hillside. We must have talked of the delight of Sunday afternoons for a long time.”
A Song & Smile Before You Go
Laugh and sing along with the Rev. Lonnie Lacy of St. Anne's Episcopal Church in Tifton, Ga., as he taps into the popularity of Hamilton the musical with You'll Be Back. His humor reminds us that we will be together again as churchgoers, maybe even better than we were before the pandemic.
Note: The Sisters have no control over advertising on YouTube.
The More the Merrier
Know someone who would like to
receive our emails? Add them here.
Past Editions
Read all previous editions of
Tidings in Troubled Times here.