“I expect to pass through life but once. If, therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again. " — William Penn

The Practicality of Kindness As women of faith, we dedicate ourselves to disseminating kindness and care. But very often, we too are the recipients of generosity at the hands of family, friends, benefactors and even strangers. Sister Norberta Kralosky (shown here) and the other Sisters in residence at Mt. Assisi Place in Pittsburgh, Pa., recently received care packages filled with toiletries and treats from parishioners at nearby Allison Park Church. We know we so very much appreciate the contents and, even more importantly, the notes and greetings enclosed. Imagine how those in your life also would appreciate such simple gestures of kindness. “ It is easy to feel alone and forgotten during this pandemic when visits are almost non-existent, ” says Sister Frances Marie Duncan . “ As hard as it may seem, if you can muster enough energy to call a friend or write to them, you will notice that you will feel more connected and less lonely. The best cure for loneliness is to reach out and touch someone. ” Take a few moments today to reach out to someone who needs to hear from you. It doesn't cost much, if anything at all, and the impact is priceless.

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 and offer wise words for our friends in faith.

Is there any special place you go or routine you follow that makes your prayer time more fulfilling? “Psalm 113 says, 'From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the Name of the Lord is to be praised.' The very best place for this to happen is on our lovely balcony off of St. Clare Lounge at Mt. Assisi Place. We see overwhelmingly beautiful sunrises and sunsets. My tomatoes plants love it, too.” — Sister Pat Marie Buranosky

Is there any special place you go or routine you follow that makes your prayer time more fulfilling? “I am a morning person. I love to greet the day with a prayer of praise as I watch the sun rise. It makes me realize that God has given me another day to serve Him through others. And on rainy, gloomy days when the sun is hidden, I pray for trust. I know the sun is there behind the clouds, just as I know God is behind everything that happens in my life. I pray that I keep this in mind always, no matter what happens.” — Sister Barbara Ann Webster

What are you most looking forward to doing when life returns to "normal?" “I am most looking forward to preparing liturgies and playing the organ at Our Lady of the Angels Chapel at Mt. Assisi Place. Music is and has been my life for 59 years in our community. Not being able to participate at Mass and receive Communion has been very difficult and saddening for me. I truly need as much of God's divine energy and grace as I can receive, especially at this time of pain, suffering and injustice in our world. I also thank God for much quiet time for prayer and contemplation.” — Sister Lorita Kristufek

Jubiliarian Spotlight Join us in congratulating our 2020 Jubilarians as they celebrate milestones in religious life amid this year's extraordinary circumstances. Today, acquaint yourself with the gentle ways of Sister Anita Kuchera , who this year celebrates 70 years in religious life. Read More

Sister Karen Buco fondly recalls special summer days spent at a Pittsburgh-area landmark. “ My favorite summer activity was going to Kennywood Park (an amusement park near Pittsburgh, Pa.) when the PPG plant where my dad worked invited workers and their families to come and enjoy the day by taking advantage of the special rate for entrance and tickets for rides, ” Sister says. “ We always had a terrific time. ”

Life Hacks from Our Sisters Our Sisters have learned a lot over their many years in religious life. They've picked up some very useful tips along the way that are worth sharing with all of you. Here's a pertinent pair:

Good Rule of Tongue A few years ago at one of our Chapters of Renewal , our group came up with a monthly resolution to think before we speak. It went like this: T — Think before you speak. H — Ask if it is  helpful. I — Is it  inspirational ? N — Is it  necessary ? K — Is it  kind? I try to remind myself each morning to think before I speak. This is a good reminder to avoid gossip or responding in anger. — Sister Jean Makovsky Prevention & Prayer A group of Secular Franciscans in New York have decided to pray for a vaccine for COVID-19. We've been told to wash our hands for 20 seconds, which can be counted by singing Happy Birthday twice. The Franciscans, however, propose using those 20 seconds every time they wash their hands to pray for a vaccine and those developing it. Good idea, no? — Sister Nancy Celaschi

A Song Before You Go Bet you can't help but be amazed by the God-given talents of 6-year-old Claire Crosby as she plays the Elvis standard Can't Help Falling In Love on the ukulele. Note: The Sisters have no control over advertising on YouTube.

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