Sr. Paula Vandegaer, SSS
Founder, International Life Services

On August 13 Sr. Paula returned to our heavenly Father after a valiant battle with cancer. A fervent advocate for life, Sister Paula was an internationally recognized leader in the pro-life movement and has trained, ministered, and inspired thousands over the course of many decades. Towards the end of her life, Sr. Paula was grateful that she was able to go home to Arthur Street, before joining the choirs of angels that included so many SSS who have gone before her. Perhaps most beautiful to note was her peaceful recognition that she knew it was her time to go and be with God. May she rest in peace.

Sr. Maribeth Larkin, SSSLA General Director

Attends European General Chapter in Slovakia
Sr. Maribeth (R) at Chapter with outgoing General Moderator, Sr. Agnes Pataki.

“Being present for this Chapter was a huge blessing in my life. The reverence with which the delegates conducted their important business was inspiration from start to finish. I am so very grateful to have been with them!”
-Sr. Maribeth
From August 1 to the 15th, Sister Maribeth Larkin, General Director of the Sisters of Social Service Los Angeles Branch, joined delegates from the Eastern European Branch of the SSS, which includes Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, Cuba and Buffalo, to attend their 16th General Chapter. The delegates traveled to the host country of Slovakia, staying at the beautiful Benedictine Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Lord in Sampor. 
Regis House
Kids Experience Joys of Summer Day Camp
Every day, Regis House Community Center dramatically impacts the lives of children and families living on the margins of our community in the heart of Los Angeles. This summer, especially, the generosity of the Juniors of Social Service, the Social Service Auxiliary, and many more, allowed dozens of children and teens to experience the joys of summer day camp at Regis House. Our campers enjoyed a variety of fun and creative educational experiences, including cooking and baking in the kitchen, playing silly games, constructing colorful art projects, hiking in our local parks and excursions to the beach, the California Science Center, Universal City Walk and so much more. Sister Albertina Morales, Regis House Director, remarked: “We continue to be so very grateful for the support of so many donors, as we do not charge our families the true cost to attend camp and we rely on donations to help us cover fees, stipends, salaries and field trips and transportation. It truly makes a huge difference for our Sisters, our staff and the Campers!”

Thank You for Your Support!
Joyful Girls Return to Camp Mariastella
Thanks to the new owners of Camp Mariastella in Wrightwood, and the generosity of many donors, including the Social Service Auxiliary, the Sisters of Social Service were able to welcome over 150 campers for two weeks of girls camp in July. In addition to our wonderful group of counselors, our camps included seven CITs (counselors in training) and girls from House of Ruth. Said Sister Jennifer Gaeta, “The girls and staff were greatly relieved to be back at Camp as last summer was so difficult for all. We had many long discussions about family, and school during the Covid shutdown. It was a great experience as usual, and this summer was even more meaningful to be back in the safe place of Camp along with the supportive staff that the campers have come to know so well.”
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