We welcomed two new Associates – Kathy Kauer Wise and Rosemarie McShane – during a Commitment Ceremony and Liturgy in the Motherhouse chapel on April 28. While both reflect the charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph, they first encountered our Sisters at different stages of their lives.
Kathy attended St. Canice elementary and high school where she was taught by our Sisters and where she met her Associate sponsor and sixth-grade classmate, Sister Norma Bandi. They have maintained their long-time friendship, often sharing fond memories of their high school years.
“Kathy’s connections to the Sisters have always been there. She was truly immersed in the CSJ culture and definitely has the charism as shown by her generous and welcoming spirit,” says Sister Norma.
Kathy, a faithful volunteer in the Congregation’s Development Office, also helps to sell tickets and baked goods at the annual Spring Luncheon. On her volunteer days in Baden, Kathy regularly lunches with Sister Norma and often connects with another St. Canice classmate, Sister Elaine DiZinno.
While Rosemarie connected with another community of St. Joseph Sisters while in high school in Cincinnati, Ohio, she was first befriended by the Baden sisters in 1974 when Sisters Michelle Prah and Frances Rooney instructed her in CCD teacher certification. Two decades later, she met her Associate sponsor, Sister Sue Clay, who was struck by her zeal to help others.
“Rosemarie was inclusive of everyone she met, and I began to form a relationship with her to come to Baden for days of reflection, retreats, Maxim classes and Memorial Masses,” recalls Sister Sue.
“Over the years I have witnessed Rosemarie grow and take steps to become her true self. I have seen her be a wife, grandmother, poet and advocate to many who are on the edge of society.”
For more information on becoming an Associate, please contact Associate Judy Lewis at 412-831-5654 or lewisjudith68@gmail.com.
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