Memories
A History of Our Lady of Lourdes Convent
1937 - 1989
The School Sisters of St. Francis not only recorded the history of Our Lady of Lourdes Convent and the Sisters who served our parish so faithfully, they have also included many facts and anecdotes about parish life through the years and a valuable record of those who have served our parish.
EARLY HISTORY
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish was established in 1918. According to the recollections of Mrs. Sue Powers a pioneer of the parish the people belonged to St. Peter's, but because of distance, it was difficult to walk or take a streetcar to St. Peter's Church. There was great rejoicing when Archbishop Jeremiah Hardy, anticipating postwar expansion in Omaha, established a new parish in the Hanscom Park area under the patronage of Our Lady of Lourdes.
He appointed as pastor Father William Borer who served the parish from 1918 to 1921. In 1920, the cornerstone of the new church was laid. Under the pastorship of Father William Dowd, who served the parish from 1921 to 1932, the church and the adjoining rectory were completed and dedicated.
In the early annals of the parish some "Firsts" appear. The first child baptized was Mary Jane Walsey and the first couple married was James Arnold and Mary Florence Long. A note was made that the groom, a pilot, had flown Monsignor Flanagan when he made a trip to Rome to observe the life of boys in Europe. A note also appears that George Hautzinger was married in the new church basement, September 20, 1921. The first family registered in the parish was Mr. and Mrs. Holbrook who had five sons and three daughters. The oldest girl was called "Quarter Mary". She always had her hand out for a quarter. The money went to the St. Theresa's Guild of Juneau, Alaska, where Bishop Cremont had worked as a missioner, coming to Alaska from France.
Another interesting "First" was the organization of recreation for young people. Dances were held in the basement of the church and in the "Tea Room" of the Burges Nash Store, Kresg8 Building, 16th and Harney. However, dances discontinued after the fatal shooting of Mr. Pat Lavelle, a city officer, on duty near Oak and Hanscom Boulevard. A group of boys not from the neighborhood started the argument.
However, the most important "First" was the coming of the School Sisters of St. Francis. When did they appear in the history of the parish? In the annals of the history of Our Lady of Lourdes the following statement appears:
"A long one story building was constructed. This was probably the first school. The school was staffed by the Sisters of Loretto from Kentucky. The Sisters were disappointed by the crowded living conditions and therefore withdrew. After the withdrawal, a request was made to the School Sisters of St. Francis by Father George Smiskol, who had replaced as pastor Father Walter Theiss, 1932 to 1933."
In 1937, six School Sisters climbed lithe 100 steps to the Convent on the Hill.1I The Sisters were: Maria, Magnus, Lily, Innocence, Rosalina, and Corbiniana. The convent had been part of the estate of George W. Holdrege, General Manager of the Burlington Railroad for 36 years. He had built it in l884a three story, 13-room house, where his family lived until 1910. Then it was purchased by Attorney John L. Kennedy, a congressman and a bank president. It was the first house in Omaha to have electricity aid it was known as lithe Chapel on the Hill II because it served as the first church for the parish until 1920.
DEDICATED SERVICE
The following have given dedicated service to Our Lady of Lourdes:
PASTORS
1918-1921 Rev. William Borer
1921-1932 Rev. Stephen Dowd
1932-1933 Rev. Walter Theis
1933-1953 Rev. George Smiskol
1953-1970 Rev. Marcel Keliher
1971-1981 Rev. Roman C. Ulrich
1981 1992 Rev. Thomas Furlong
1992-2001 Rev. Frank Partusch
2001 Rev. Thomas Adams
2002 Rev. William L'Heureux
ASSOCIATE PASTORS
1922-1924 Rev. Martin Brady
1924-1929 Rev. Joseph Bernauer
1930-1932 Rev. Clarence Trummer
1932-1933 Rev. Michael Condon, DD
1933 Rev. Arthur Toher
1933-1936 Rev. Clement Kubesh
1936-1943 Rev. James Kocarnik
1943-1947 Rev. Joseph Kaup
1945 Rev. Paul Schneider
1947-1951 Rev. Martin Patrasic
1951-1957 Rev. James Kenny
ASSOCIATE PASTORS
1954-1956 (in residence) Rev. Joseph Peter, OSB
1957-1965 Rev. Robert Smith
1957-1958 Rev. Anthony Wilderding
1958 Rev. Joseph Finch
1958-1961 Rev. Leonard Ficenec
1965-1968 Rev. Anthony Milone
1968-1969 Rev. Ralph Steffensmeier
1969-1972 Rev. Thomas Ward
1972-1976 (deacon 1 yr.) Rev. Frank Partusch
1975-1976 (deacon) Rev. Carl Sodoro
1976-1978 Rev. Michael Malloy
1977-1978 Rev. James Kramper, S.J.
1979-1982 Rev. James Ryberg
1978-1980 (in residence) Rev. James V. Kramper
1982-1983 Rev. Richard Wolbach
1982-1985 (in residence) Rev. Paul Ortmeier
1984-1986 Rev. William Sanderson
1985-1986 (in residence) Rev. William Guthman
1986-1992 (in residence) Rev. James Sullivan
1986-? Rev. Robert Burke
1987-? Rev. Augustine Mulanjany
1987-1988 Rev. Emmet Meyers
1988-1991 Rev. Russell Monzu
1991-1993 Rev. Rodney Adams
1993-1994 Rev. Thomas Matt
1994 (in residence) Rev. Gerald Melchior
1994-1997 Rev. Stanley Schmitt
1997-2000 Rev. Paul Albenesias
2000 Rev. Paul Vasquez
DEACONS
The following members of the parish were ordained deacons:
Mr. Frank Hilt
Mr. Frank Mascarello
Mr. Mike Reynolds
SISTERS
1937-1938 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Rosalina Tharnish
Magnus Nickels
Innocence (Frances) Recker
Lily Weinandt
Corbiniana Pechota
Januaria Wagner
1938-1939 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Rosalina Tharnish
Evelyn
Lily Weinandt
Carla Weber
Regulina Unger
Deicola Blong (attended Creighton U.)
1939-1940 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Auremunda Neudecker
Lucetta Loebe
Evelyn
Lily Weinandt
Eusabia Kamien
Incarnata Wiederin
Sophia Duris
1940-1941 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Auremunda Neudecker
Lucetta Loebe
Evelyn
Lily Weinandt
Incarnata Wiederin
Sophia Duris
1941-1942 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Prisca Bunk
Lucetta Loebe
Evelyn
Lily Weinandt
Sophia Duris
1942-1943 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Francella Geiger
Lucetta Loebe
Everildis Kessler
Lily Weinandt
Sophia Duris
1943-1944 Sisters: Emeline Schmitz
Lucetta Loebe
Rene Schwertman
Richard Schaaf
Everildis Kessler
Caritina Meyers
Sophia Duris
1944-1945 Sisters: Emeline Schmitz
Lucetta Loebe
Aquila Gloudeman
Richard Schaaf
Rene Schwertman
Everildis Kessler
Aquinette Quella
Caritina Meyers
Sophia Duris
Albertine King
1945-1946 Sisters: Emeline Schmitz
Lucetta Loebe
Nina Mines
Rene Schwertman
Richard Schaaf
Everildis Kessler
Aquinette Quella
Caritina Meyers
Sophia Duris
Viventia McGaa
1946-1947 Sisters: Edigna Kuhlman
Engratia Fries
Elka Becker
Malachy Arends
Eutropia Bode
Fedelma
Cecil Hacker
Engelburga Korthals
Sponsaria Schmitz
Tarcisia Teeling
1947-1948 Sisters: Edigna Kuhlman
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Eutropia Bode
Francita Brau
Malachy Arends
Carolyn Loesch
Cecil Hacker
Engelburga Korthals
Sponsaria Schmitz
Viventia McGaa
Domitia Donovan
1948-1949 Sisters: Gertina Feffer
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Malachy Arends
Eutropia Bode
Francita Brau
Nivian Welch
Cecil Hacker
Engelburga Korthals
Maxima Jardee
Sponsaria Schmitz
1949-1950 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Malachy Arends
Eutropia Bode
Francita Brau
Nivian Welch
Virginelle LeClaire
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
Victorette Jackovac
Roman Pfefferle (studied at Creighton)
Sigfrieda Hettinger (student)
Lorettina Rosatti
1950-1951 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Malachy Arends
Eutropia Bode
Francita Brau
Nivian Welch
Virginelle LeClaire
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
Berlendis Baumgartner
1951-1952 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Malachy Arends
Francita Brau
Lumena Goebel
Nivian Welch
Grace Lochen
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
Oranda Heese
1952-1953 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Lumena Goebel
Melanta Haky
Francita Brau
Oliver
Nivian Welch
Grace Lochen
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
Oranda Heese
Edwardis (studied at Creighton)
1953-1954 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Lumena Goebel
Francita Brau
Melanta Haky
Nivian Welch
Grace Lochen
Oliver
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
Oranda Heese
Antonetta (studied at Creighton)
1954-1955 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Lumena Goebel
Francita Brau
Melanta Haky
Nivian Welch
Grace Lochen
Oliver
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
Oranda Heese
1955-1956 Sisters: Roberta
Maria Augustine
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Lumena Goebel
Rosita Watson
Melanta Haky
Francita Brau
Nivian Welch
Ansilio Meisenhaelter
Grace Lochen
Oliver
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
Oranda Heese
1956-1957 Sisters: Maria Augustine
De Lourdes Rechenmacher
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Basilda Semrau
Marie Katherine Fink
Francita Brau
Aredia Dietz
Nivian Welch
Ansilio Meisenhaelter
Grace Lochen
Georgetta Gass
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
1957-1958 Sisters: Maria Augustine
De Lourdes Rechenmacher
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Basilda Semrau
Marie Catherine Fink
Desponsata Kelter
Anthony Mary Tauber
Corbinella Heimbach
Nivian Welch
Ansilio Meisenhaelter
Grace Lochen
Georgetta Gass
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
Dorothy Kessler
1958-1959 Sisters Maria Augustine
Claretta Reinhart
De Lourdes Rechenmacher
Lota Geis
Elka Becker
Basilda Semrau
Marie Catherine Fink
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
Anthony Mary Tauber
Sharon Atkinson
Corbinella Heimbach
Nivian Welch
Ansilio Meisenhaelter
Grace Lochen
Georgetta Gass
Waldo Perok
Conradine Greiner
1959-1960 Sisters: Maria Augustine
De Lourdes Rechenmacher
Lota Geis
Basilda Semrau
Elka Becker
Sharon Atkinson
Anthony Mary Tauber
Victima Huguelet
Corbinella Heimbach
Menira Skunicka
Nivian Welch
Richard Schaaf
Georgetta Gass
Grace Lochen
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
1960-1961 Sisters: Maria Augustine
De Lourdes Rechenmacher
Lota Geis
Basilda Semrau
Elka Becker
Victima Huguelet
Sharon Atkinson
Luan Noecken
Marianus Ruskamp
Corbinella Heimbach
Nivian Welch
Richard Schaaf
Georgetta Gass
Grace Lochen
Engelburga Korthals
Taureta Stuhr
Leonette Tabat
1961-1962 Sisters: Maria Augustine
Dacia Recker
Lota Geis
Basilda Semrau
Elka Becker
Victima Huguelet
Marianus Ruskamp
Parilia Kerkman
Annarose Koenig
Taureta Stuhr
Corbinella Heimbach
Richard Schaaf
Nivian Welch
Georgetta Gass
Grace Lochen
Eugenio Wingert
Cera Corkle
1962-1963 Sisters: Elka Becker
Maria Augustine
Lota Geis
Silveria Lehnerz
Parilia Kerkman
Georgetta Gass
Marianus Ruskamp
Bernard Francis Stratman
Basilda Semrau
Theola Schwartze
Corbinella Heimbach
Richard Schaaf
Annabeth Ernesti
Grace Lochen
Annarose Koenig
Lourdanne Koch
Taureta Stuhr
Eufra Schmitz
Terrelle Vogt (studied at Creighton)
Adrianne (studied at Creighton)
1963-1964 Sisters: Elka Becker
Grace Lochen
Richard Schaaf
Theola Schwartz
Corbinella Heimbach
Lois Marie
Tabitha Kaup
Marianus Ruskamp
Silveria Lehnerz
Georgetta Gass
Amator Vogel
Leonissa Younger
Maria Augustine
Annarose Koenig
Willanne Schoenbauer
Taureta Stuhr
1964-1965 Sisters: Elka Becker
Maria Augustine
Luan Noecker
Nola Parr
Virgene Becker
Georgetta Gass
Marianus Ruskamp
Silveria Lehnerz
Corbinella Heimbach
Michaelinda Avilla
Richard Schaaf
Theola Schwartze
Grace Lochen
Annarose Koenig
Taureta Stuhr
Teresalyn Kouma
1965-1966 Sisters: Elka Becker
Maria Augustine
Luan Noecker
Nola Parr
Virgene Becker
Georgetta Gass
Silveria Lehnez
Corbinella Heimbach
Richard Schaaf
Theola Schwartze
Grace Lochen
Annarose Koenig
Idalia Hamik
Melvin Spader
Taureta Stuhr
Xavier Ann Eichenseer
Ann Karen (studied at Creighton)
1966-1967 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Grace Lochen
Richard Schaaf
Idalia Hamik
Innocence Recker
Corbinella Heimbach
Silveria Lehnerz
Victima Huguelet
Virgene Becker
Melvin Spader
Dignata Urzendowski
Luan Noecker
Annarose Koenig
Taureta Stuhr
Agnella Bialk
Xavier Ann Eichenseer
1967-1968 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Agnella Younger
Mary Gen (Del Rey) Darcy
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Annarose Koenig
Lisa (Silveria) Lehnerz
Helena (Viventia) McGaa
Patrice McGlone
Ursella Neudecker
Luan Noecker
Richard Schaaf
Bernice (Melvin) Spader
Dignata Urzendowski
1968-1969 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Gene Crahan
Mary Gen Darcy
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Romualda Leber
Lisa Lehnerz
Patrice McGlone
Luan Noecker
Richard Schaaf
Jane Scheriner
Bernice Schmitz
Jane Scheurer
Dignata Urzendowski
Marie Wintz
1969-1970 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Ann Marie Bichlmeier
Regina Marie Bogner
Gene Crahan
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Lillian Koll
Helen Lehnerz
Lisa Lehnerz
Patrice McGlone
Mary Rock
Richard Schaaf
Helen Laura Schermann
Bernice Schmitz
Dignata Urzendowski
Marie Wintz
Victima Huguelet
1970-1971 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Ann Marie Bichlmeier
Regina Marie Bogner
Gene Crahan
Idalia Hamik
Mary Deermer
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Lillian Koll
Helen Lehnerz
Lisa Lehnerz
Patrice McGlone
Vianney Meis
Mary Rock
Richard Schaaf
Helen Laura Schermann
Dignata Urzendowski
Rita Wagner
Marie Wintz
1971-1972 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Ann Marie Bichlmeier
Regina Marie Bogner
Gene Crahan
Idalia Hamik
Mary Deermer
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Lillian Koll
Olma Kreidermacher
Helen Lehnerz
Lisa Lehnerz
Patrice McGlone
Vianney Meis
Mary Rock
Helen Laura Schermann
Dignata Urzendowski
Clarella Werth
Marie Wintz
Paulea Kraft
1972-1973 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Ann Marie Bichlmeier
Regina Marie Bogner
Gene Crahan
Mary Deermer
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Lillian Koll
Helen Lehnerz
Lisa Lehnerz
Patrice McGlone
Vianney Meis
Frances Recker
Mary Rock
Helen Laura Schermann
Dignata Urzendowski
Clarella Werth
1973-1974 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Gene Crahan
Mary Deermer
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Annarose Koenig
Lillian Koll
Helen Lehnerz
Lisa Lehnerz
Patrice McGlone
Vianney Meis
Frances Recker
Mary Rock
Helen Laura Schermann
Dignata Urzendowski
Clarella Werth
Nancy Reisdorf
Betty Steffensmeier
1974-1975 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Gene Crahan
Mary Deermer
Margaret Ann Simons
Rita Wiegand
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Annarose Koenig
Helen Lehnerz
Lisa Lehnerz
Patrice McGlone
Vianney Meis
Frances Recker
Mary Rock
Helen Laura Schermann
Dignata Urzendowski
Betty Steffensmeier
1975-1976 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Gene Crahan
Mary Deermer
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Irene Kaup
Helen Lehnerz
Lisa Lehnerz
Patrice McGlone
Frances Recker
Mary Rock
Helen Laura Schermann
Dignata Urzendowski
Clarella Werth
Betty Steffensmeier
Margaret Ann Simons
Rita Wiegand
Marie Seier
1976-1977 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Gene Crahan
Mary Deermer
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Irene Kaup
Patrice McGlone
Mary Rock
Margaret Ann Simons
Betty Steffensmeier
Dignata Urzendowski
Clarella Werth
1977-1978 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Angela Baumert
Gene Crahan
Mary Deermer
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Irene Kaup
Patrice McGlone
Mary Rock
Margaret Ann Simons
Dignata Urzendowski
Clarella Werth
1978-1979 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Angela Baumert
Mary Deermer
Marietta Greiner
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Agnessa Laur
Patrice McGlone
Margaret Ann Simons
Dignata Urzendowski
Clarella Werth
1979-1980 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Angela Baumert
Mary Deermer
Marietta Greiner
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Agnessa Laur
Patrice McGlone
Mary Sicilda Parr
Margaret Ann Simons
Dignata Urzendowski
Clarella Werth
1980-1981 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Angela Baumert
Mary Deermer
Marietta Greiner
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Agnessa Laur
Patrice McGlone
Mary Sicilda Parr
Margaret Ann Simons
Dignata Urzendowski
Clarella Werth
1981-1982 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Angela Baumert
Mary Deermer
Marietta Greiner
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Agnessa Laur
Patrice McGlone
Mary Sicilda Parr
Nola Parr
Margaret Ann Simons
Dignata Urzendowski
Clarella Werth
1982-1983 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Deermer
Marietta Greiner
Idalia Hamik
Victima Huguelet
Agnessa Laur
Patrice McGlone
Mary Sicilda Parr
Nola Parr
Margaret Ann Simons
Dignata Urzendowski
Corbinella Heimbach
1983-1984 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Deermer
Marietta Greiner
Idalia Hamik
Victima Huguelet
Agnessa Laur
Patrice McGlone
Nola Parr
Mary Sicilda Parr
Margaret Ann Simons
Clarella Werth
Corbinella Heimbach
1984-1985 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Deermer
Rita Gaul
Marietta Greiner
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Patrice McGlone
M9ry Sicilda Parr
Nola Parr
Clarella Werth
1985-1986 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Deermer
Rita Gaul
Marietta Greiner
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Victima Huguelet
Agnessa Laur
Patrice McGlone
Mary Sicilda Parr
Nola Parr
Clarella Werth
Leta Heese
1986-1987 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Deermer
Rita Gaul
Marietta Greiner
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Agnessa Laur
Patrice McGlone
Nola Parr
Mary Sici1da Parr
Clarella Werth
Leta Heese
1987-1988 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Deermer
Mary Ann Eichenseer (in residence)
Rita Gaul
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Agnessa Laur
Patrice McGlone
Nola Parr
Mary Sici1da Parr
Clarella Werth
Rita Wiegand
1988-1989 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Mary Deermer
Rita Gaul
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Agnessa Laur
Patrice McGlone
Nola Parr
Mary Sicilda Parr
Clarella Werth
Rita Wiegand
1989-1990 Sisters: Alexis Arends
Martha Brester
Mary Deermer
Kathryn T. Deermer
Rita Gaul
Elizabeth Heese
Idalia Hamik
Corbinella Heimbach
Gertrude Kerkman
Agnessa Laur
Nola Parr
Mary Sicilda Parr
Patrice McGlone
Lois Schulte
Clarella Werth
Rita Wiegand
Listings added in 2001
1992-1993 Sisters: Martha Pester
Kathryn Terese Deermer
Mary Deermer
Gertrude Kerkman
Marianne Kuhn (Gr. 1)
Agnes Laur
Lois Schulte
Clarella Werth (Office, Library volunteer)
*Elizabeth Heese (principal)
1993-1994 Sisters: Martha Brester
Kathryn Terese Deermer
Mary Deermer
Gertrude Kerkman
Marianne Kuhn (Gr. 1)
Lois Schulte
Irma Steffen
Clarella Werth (Office, Library Volunteer)
*Elizabeth Heese (principal)
1994-1995 Sisters: Martha Brester
Kathryn Terese Deermer
Mary Deermer
Gertrude Kerkman
Marianne Kuhn (Gr. 1)
Irene Laible
Raymarie Lickteig
Lois Schulte
Irma Steffen
Clarella Werth
*Elizabeth Heese
1995-1996 Sisters: Martha Brester
Gene Marie Chole
Kathryn Terese Deermer
Mary Deermer
Gertrude Kerkman
Marianne Kuhn (Gr. 1)
Irene Laible
Raymarie Lickteig
Lois Schulte
Irma Steffen
Clarella Werth
*Elizabeth Heese
*Sister Elizabeth Heese did not live in the Convent.
1996-1997 Sisters: Martha Brester
Gene Marie Chole
Kathryn Terese Deermer
Mary Deermer
Gertrude Kerkman
Marianne Kuhn (Gr. 1)
Irene Laible
Monica Menke
Lois Schulte
Inna Steffen
Clarella Werth
1997-1998 Sisters: Gene Marie Chole
Kathryn Terese Deermer
Mary Deermer
Gertrude Kerkman
Marianne Kuhn (Gr. 1)
Irene Laible
Monica Menke
Lois Schulte
Inna Steffen
Clarella Werth
1998-1999 Sisters: Linda Avilla
Ann Marie Bichlmeier
Gene Marie Chole
Gertrude Kerkman
Marianne Kuhl
Irene Laible
Joan McCoy
Monica Menke
Joan Renner
Clarella Werth
1999-2000 Sisters: Linda Avilla
Ann Marie Bichlmeier
Gene Marie Chole
Irene Laible
Joan McCoy
Monica Menke
Joan Renner
Inna Steffen
Clarella Werth
2000-2001 Sisters: Linda Avilla
Ann Marie Bechlmeier
Gene Marie Chole
Irene Laible
Joan McCoy
Monica Menke
Joan Renner
Inna Steffen
Betty Steffensmeier
Clarella Werth
CELEBRATIONS
Very little information appears in the Convent Diary about the activities of the Sisters between the years 1937 and 1943. However. Mrs. sue powers commented that in 1939 the first school orchestra under the direction of Sister
Lily played on the radio and that a violin group played at all the Masses on Christmas Day. However, even though in the early days the Sisters did not record achievements in education, there was good teaching evident by the comments made by Archbishop Ryan at the Parish Silver Jubilee in 1943 when he said. "The work of the school is beyond praise." Evidence is also given in the toast at the banquet; "We toast the Sisters of our school, who exemplify in the field of religious education those characteristics of love for and devotion to God's little children. We toast to our children, God's garden in our midst, the joy and the hope of the Church and our country whose unswerving loyalty to the principles of our school make them our pride a delight."
In the Silver Jubilee brochure it is interesting to note that emphasis is placed on the religious life of the parish. Before the social gatherings of e celebration, the people were invited 'to assist at Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.' The High Masses offered on successive days of the Jubilee Celebration were first in Thanksgiving; second for the deceased Bishops, Priests, Sisters, Friends and Parishioners; third for the Sisters, Children, Benefactors, Friends, and Living Members of the Parish; fourth, for the 191 young people who served in the Armed Forces. In the brochure there also appeared a list of all the young men and women who served in the Armed Forces.
In 1948 the parishioners of our Lady of Lourdes were saddened by the death of Archbishop Ryan. However, they did not stay in mourning too long because preparations had to be made for the investiture of Father Smiskol as Right Reverend Monsignor. Monsignor Wegener. Chancellor of the Archdiocese officiated. Bishop Kucera and Bishop Hunkeler and some civil dignitaries were present for the occasion.
On Easter Monday of 1949, Monsignor Smiskol honored the members of the School Sisters of St. Francis by having a Pontifical Mass celebrated by Archbishop Bergan in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the School Sisters of St. Francis. The Mass was followed by a banquet served by the Altar and Rosary Society. Sisters Loyola and Justitia came as the official representatives of the Community.
The next major celebration was the dedication of the new school. As soon as Monsignor Smisko1 retired the parish debt, he began to plan for a new school. However, he did not live to see his dream completed. He became ill prior to the Midnight Mass and was rushed to St. Joseph Hospital. He died April 7 and was buried in Chicago. The contract for the new school had been signed and the wrecking of the brick wall on the east side of the playground began. However, the plans were put aside because of the appointment of a new pastor, father Keliher.
The area here the present p1aygounds and school now stand housed the Masonic Home for Boys - originally the mansion donated by George Mageath. It sloped toward 32nd venue and was bordered by a brick wall and enclosed by a wooden gate. The Omaha Home for Boys was relocated at 4343 N. 52nd Street.
Because of the delay, provisions had to be made to take care of the growing enrollment. Classes had to be held in shifts to use the same room for two grades. Morning classes began at 7:30 to 12:30, and the afternoon classes 12:30 to 5:30. It was discovered that the original plan would be very inadequate - that the new school would have to be one third larger. It would be designed to accommodate 800 students.
As soon as the school children were dismissed for summer vacation, workmen moved on the scene to begin excavating. Father Keliher placed a small rock, which he brought from Lourdes, France, in the northeast corner of the building. The following excerpt from the TRUE VOICE describes the project.
"The new school, east on 32nd venue, is about one third larger than the original plan, and the entire cost will approximate $450.000. The front or east side will be three stories. The rear elevation will be two stories above the ground. The ground floor will feature the main entrance, foyer, kindergarten, all-purpose room, stage, toilet facilities, and boiler room. Eight classrooms will be located on both the main and second floor. The main floor will also have the teachers' lounge and storage rooms. The second floor will house the library and workroom. Each floor will have toilet facilities for the pupils.
The kindergarten space covers 1320 Square feet. Besides kid sized plumbing, the area will feature a clothes room, study room with work counters, easel and cabinets, plus a kindergarten room of 125 feet.
The classrooms will be 24 feet by 33 feet, with glazed tile wainscots, two walls of chalk and tagboards, asphalt tile floors, acoustical ceilings, and fluorescent lighting. At the rear of each classroom will be built-in pupils' wardrobes, open bookshelves, storage room and supp1y cabinet. The fourth wall will be glass, with the upper two-thirds glass blocks and the lower area of clear glass venti1ation.
The school's exterior will match the beautiful church and rectory. All corridors and stairs will have terrazzo floors and glazed tile wainscoting. Concrete walls to ground level will give way to masonry construction above the ground. The kitchen and all lavatories will have quarry tile floors and glazed tile walls. A system of ventilation will be provided for all wardrobe rooms."
The Sisters had waited with great anticipation for the completion of the new school. Finally, the great day arrived - the blessing of the building, September 8, 1954. Immediately after that, classes were resumed. The Sisters would have to wait until evening for a celebration, when they wou1d join Father Klink, Mother Corona, Mother Clemens, and Sister Alexander. Father Keliher gave the four guests a crucifix like those in the new school.
Now that the school was completed, plans were initiated to raise $450,000 for the building of a new Convent. The Wells Organization launched a canvas to boost offerings to cover current and past business expenses.
An intensive two-week solicitation period eliminated the necessity for a long drawn-out program. The emphasis was that with faith, prayer, and sacrifice the goal would be reached. A banquet was held to launch the drive. Since it was the night before the Omaha Teachers' Convention and Mother Corona had been invited to the banquet she had the opportunity to visit with all of the Sisters who had come to the convention.
Once again the din of machinery was heard in the Hanscom Park area. Three houses on 33rd Street were sold and moved away. On February 11, the corner stone for the Convent was blessed and rested before the Blessed Virgin altar for some time. Thoughts of the new Convent for them had to be set aside to prepare the way for the building of the Ryan High School to be staffed by the School Sisters of Saint Francis. Many Sisters came for the dedication of the high school, so accommodations had to be arranged at Lourdes. Even though the new Convent at Lourdes was not completed, some of the Sisters slept in the unfurnished rooms so that the old Convent could be used for guests.
Finally in 1956 the convent at Lourdes was completed; plans for the dedication became a reality. Archbishop Bergan blessed the house and Father Keliher the chapel that was dedicated to St. Joseph. The beautiful wood carved statues of him and the Blessed Mother pay tribute to the two favorite saints of the Sisters.
The Sisters agreed that the Convent was "Worth waiting for" and they soon forgot the many inconveniences they had experienced in "the house on the hill." The luxury of a private bedroom, with a bath for each Sister, a lovely chapel, and a spacious dining room and community room was beyond expectation.
In the Parish Bulletin they expressed their gratitude as follows:
"The glow of gratitude penetrates quietly and steadily, and its warmth spreads in ever-widening circles. But there comes a time when gratitude claims a voice to supplement its warmth. Such a time has presented itself to the Sisters of Our Lady of Lourdes. It is with a voice made resonant in union that we express our sincere and prayerful thanks to our benefactors to each and every member of Our Lady of Lourdes."
During a "no school snow storm" all the desks and other furnishings were moved from the back door of the old house to the new. Lots of fun! To help celebrate the occasion, the Sisters were given a used Mercury station wagon by Jack Cremer. To also celebrate the event a new occupant was added to their family - a canary named "Skipper" who became a special friend of Sister Lota.
The celebration of the dedication of the convent in 1956 the Sisters thought would be their last one for a while, but the following year there was another. The occasion was the honor given to Father Keliher when he was made Monsignor. The convent was used for his family celebration, but even though the Sisters had to wait hungrily for dinner to be served in the social hall, they did not mind, because Father deserved the celebration because of his kindness to them.
Although there were many celebrations for church and school events, not too much recognition was given to individual Sisters' Jubilees. A celebration of Sister Ursella's Golden Jubilee was the "kick off" for many similar ones that followed.
Sister was received into the Community in 1918, so 1968 was a special year for her. In her history of 50 years of faithful service as a homemaker, she brought contentment and happiness by her cheerfulness. Her mission experiences had included places of want, places with some conveniences, and places without electricity. Although she never referred to the poverty of her past experiences, she did appreciate her private room. The Sisters celebrated her Golden Jubilee with a "surprise party" and invited the Sisters from Ralston to join in an evening of fun. A "musical skit" composed by Sister Bernice climaxed the event.
A major event in 1969 was the celebration of Sister Corbinella's Golden Jubilee. The Sisters celebrated with a delicious dinner. Sister Elka, who also was a Jubilarian, and the Sisters from Mary Our Queen, Were invited. The following week the Home and School Officers sponsored a dinner in the social hall. Sister was presented with a Money Tree to which was attached $50.
The following year, 1970, plans were initiated to celebrate Sister Helen Lehnerz's Golden Jubilee. In order to make it special, the Sisters decided to have dinner at Cascio's Steak House restaurant "tops" in serving delicious steak.
The sum of 125 years marked the years of service for the next three Jubilarians. Sister Lisa and Sister Lillian were Golden Jubilarians and Sister Paulea, a Silver Jubilarian. Sister Mary Deermer prepared a delicious dinner, which was served in a gaily-decorated dining room.
In 1937, Sister Frances, known as Sister Innocence, was one of the early pioneers who climbed the steps to "the Convent on the Hill." Sister was reassigned to Lourdes in 1966. Destiny or "obedience" as it is known in religious life returned Sister so she could celebrate her Golden Jubilee in 1973 with her friends at Lourdes.
In 1974, the next Golden Jubilarian was Sister Gene. Sister served as librarian from 1968 to 1972. In 1972 Sister retired and continued to live in the convent as a chauffeur for the Sisters.
The year 1974 was a very important date for the School Sisters of St. Francis,
since it was the 100th year of their founding. The following excerpt appeared
in the Parish Bulletin:
"It was in 1874 that three School Sisters of St. Francis came to America
to begin their work in the United States, teaching and caring for the sick.
Now in 1974 the School Sisters of St. Francis are celebrating their 100th birthday in all parts of the United States. Even though the Sisters have not been working in Our Lady of Lourdes for all those 100 years, they have spent quite a few years here, thirty-seven to be exact. For this reason the parishioners of Our Lady of Lourdes joined with the Sisters in their Centennial Celebration."
On Sunday, November 3, Archbishop Daniel Sheehan, Monsignor Ulrich, Father Partusch, Father Kenny, and Father Kerwin, concelebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving in Our Lady of Lourdes Church. In addition to the parishioners of Our Lady of Lourdes there were nearly 100 School Sisters present for the Mass. The Liturgy, beautiful in itself, was even more beautiful because of the singing of the O.L.L. Choir. The Choir, under the direction of Mrs. Lorraine Anzalone, has the reputation of being one of the finest, and the performance for this occasion assured that reputation.
Following the Mass there was a reception in the social hall hosted by the O.L.L. Guild, with Mrs. Rita Vaughn acting as chairperson. During the reception the parishioners had the opportunity to greet not only the Sisters who are presently at O.L.L., but also many of the Sisters who had been here in the past.
We, the School Sisters of St. Francis are deeply grateful to our many good friends here at O.L.L. who joined us in celebrating our 100th birthday."
For a year there was a lull in celebrations. But the revival began when someone recalled that Monsignor Ulrich who had been appointed Administrator of the Parish Was named Pastor and no official celebration had taken place. Therefore, in 1976, some of the parishioners initiated a plan to give him recognition for his five years of service in the Parish. An Anniversary Mass in honor of Monsignor's five years as Pastor Was held. Archbishop Daniel E. Sheehan and priest friends of Monsignor attended. After the Mass over 400 parishioners attended a dinner at the Stockyard Exchange.
At this point, celebrations focus on younger members of the community and the parish. Carla Nielsen entered the Community of the Sisters of St. Francis Perpetual Adoration, Colorado Springs, Colorado. In the "write-up" which appeared in the Parish Bulletin in response to her reason for entering religious life, she said, "I have plenty of examples of what religious life is all about from our own priests and nuns at Lourdes. I am Sure we can all agree the O.L.L. has been blessed with some beautiful, dedicated and religious people." After severa1 years, Carla decided that the life of a Sister was not for her.
When Patricia Craig entered the School Sisters of St. Francis, she requested that her Reception Ceremony take place in her home parish. On January 23, 1977, she asked to be received during a Mass celebrated at Lourdes. Father Frank Partusch Was the celebrant and Monsignor Ulrich concelebrated. Sister Patralia was the commentator, Sister Barbara Ziegler, the organist, and Sister Judeen Schulte and Mary Fisher the soloists.
Sister Betty Steffensmeier, who taught at Lourdes for four years asked to
make her Final Commitment in Our Lady of Lourdes Church. The ceremony took
place on August 20, 1977. Her theme was "It Was Yahweh Who Speaks." It
gave the young people at Lourdes an opportunity to witness the meaning of
Final Vows. Sister Betty's parents and family were also present. After the
Mass, there was a reception in the social hall.
The year 1977 was also an important one for four teachers at Lourdes whose
total service equaled 200 years. Sisters Ma Rock, Victima, Vianney, and Patrice
celebrated their Golden Jubilees. Sister Mary Deermer prepared a delicious
dinner and the other Sisters decorated the dining room.
In summarizing the 1970-decade, Anniversaries and Jubilees were dominant.
The next major one was the 60th Anniversary of the Founding of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in 1918. A field Mass was celebrated and attended by former assistants and graduates of Lourdes as well as 300 parishioners. The high light of the celebration was the homily of the first pastor, Father William Borer. The entire celebration was spirit-filled and inspiring. Those priests who were able to participate were:
Rev. Joseph Kaup, Rev. Martin Patrasic, Rev. James Kenny, Rev. Anthony Milone, Rev. Roman Ulrich, Rev. Frank Partusch, Rev. Michael Malloy, Rev. James Kramper, Rev. Thomas Ward, Rev. William Weidner, Rev. Robert Gass, Rev. William Fitzgerald, Rev. Edwin Quinn, SSC.
Father Borer stated in his homily that the parish was founded from parts of adjacent parishes and that the old mansion on the hill was the first church. He recalled that he could still see the choir lined up on the open staircase for holy Mass. He said the depression of 1918 was prevalent and money was hard to get or find. However, to speed up the Work, a Joan from the bank was negotiated and the building was begun. 8y 1920 the walls Were part way up and by placing a huge tent over them, his brother, Father James, said his first Mass here. He said his parents celebrated their Golden Wedding, and both his father and sister Isabel were buried from this church. He expressed gratitude that on May 21, 1978, he as the first pastor could return to deliver the homily.
Two years after reception into religious life, Patricia Craig again requested to celebrate in Our Lady of Lourdes Church and make her First Profession of Vows in 1979. The celebrant of the Mass was Monsignor Ulrich and the concelebrants were: Father Leo Ruse, Father Michael Malloy, Father Lloyd Gnirk, and Father James Kramper. The organist was Sister Jocelyn Brenner. Later Sister Patricia decided that religious life was not for her. .
Time marches on for some Sisters, one year at a time, but for Sister Corbinella, a decade has elapsed since she received a money tree of $50 when she celebrated her 50 years as a Golden Jubilarian. Now in 1979, she celebrates 60 years of dedicated service. The following tribute appeared in the PARISH PORTRAIT:
"Sister Corbinella entered St. Joseph Convent, Milwaukee on May 11, 1918, and was received into the Order of the School Sisters of St. Francis on Jujuy 18, 1919. She began her teaching career and taught in elementary schools in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana. In 1937, she came to Our Lady of Lourdes and taught third grade untie 1968. In September of 1968, she began her work as Sacristan at Lourdes. Sister is without doubt, one of the great assets of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish and an integral part of Our Liturgy Services."
Thus far the celebrations in Lourdes have been happy Occasions, but now in the 1980's they will have a tinge of sadness.
In 1970, Monsignor Ulrich, former Superintendent of the Archdiocese was appointed as Administrator to Our lady of Lourdes and then became Pastor in
1971. He said when he received his assignment he had promised himself that after ten or eleven years, he would ask for a change because he was Convinced that a priest can stay too long in one parish.
After eleven years of service he requested to be assigned to a rural area. The following is a quote from his farewell message:
"I am very grateful to Almighty God for having had the opportunity to serve this worshiping community and I am grateful to all who made my stay such a pleasant experience. I have been ordained thirty-seven years and I can truthfully say my stay at Lourdes Was the happiest of all my years in the priesthood."
The following is an excerpt, which appeared in the program given to honor Monsignor's service to the parish:
"It didn't take long to know you not just as pastor but as a friend.
You have been with us in happy times and sad times. Whatever functions the
parishioners had, you were there. You gently and patiently helped us through
this past decade of church renewal and gave us a firm foundation for Continued
growth. The phrase "to know you is to love you" must have been
written for you. We'll miss you here at Our lady of Lourdes, but realizing
why you are going consoles us and we all join together in Wishing you well.
May God grant you health and happiness for many years to come as you serve
your new community at Lyons, Nebraska. Monsignor Ulrich, We salute you.
Love and prayers always,
Our Lady of Lourdes,
Your Parish."
One of the most important devotions Monsignor Ulrich initiated was the introduction of Perpetual Adoration. Father Garvey, one of the earliest and most successful promoters of Parish Perpetual Adoration spoke at the Masses on Sundays, and the people of the parish followed his suggestion to begin the devotion. March 8, 1981, perpetual adoration began at 12:00 noon.
At first the hours were kept in the main body of the church, but when the church was renovated, a separate chapel was assigned to keep the 81essed Sacrament. A pledge was made never to leave the lord unguarded. Adorers often express how lost their lives would be if they were to remove their hour of adoration from their Weekly schedule.
In the year 1983, a decision was made to make the Sisters' Jubilees not only a Community project, but also a "Parish Family Celebration." Father Furlong, a firm advocate of "Parish Family" celebrated the Mass in the morning, and in the afternoon the Sisters Were honored with a reception at which they were given cards and gifts. Sisters Agnessa and Alexis were the first to be recognized in the Parish Family Celebration.
A tribute to the two Jubilarians appeared in the PARISH PORTRAIT:
"Sister Agnessa was born in Howells, Nebraska. Her family included two brothers and three sisters. Sister earned her Bachelor Degree from Alverno College, Milwaukee. She taught in schools in Illinois, Wisconsin Colorado, Iowa and Osmond, Nebraska, before coming to Lourdes in 1978. Sister always had a desire to finish her teaching in a place named for Mary because of her mother's Special devotion to Our Blessed lady.
Sister Alexis was born in Raeville, Nebraska, the seventh of 11 children She earned her Bachelor Degree from Alverno College, Milwaukee and her Master from Creighton University. Sister taught in Chicago, New Prague Minnesota and Mary Our Queen, Omaha, before coming to Lourdes in 1966.
An unwavering, consistent discipline always tempered with a lot of kindness makes Sister Alexis the kind of principal and teacher that the children will always recall with fond memories. There is not much happening in or about the school of which she is not aware. To this the children will readily attest.1I
In May 1984, Sister Margaret Ann celebrated her Golden Jubilee. At a reception in the afternoon, Sister was given gifts and cards. The tribute in the PARISH PORTRAIT stated:
"Sister Margaret Ann was born in Windhorst, Texas, into a family of eight children. She entered St. Joseph Convent as a high school freshman and received her degree from Alverno College, Milwaukee. Before coming to Our Lady of Lourdes nine years ago, Sister Margaret Ann was a teacher and principal in Wisconsin, Iowa and Nebraska. At Lourdes in the junior high she has contributed much to the teaching of religion and art. An additional blessing Sister enjoys is that her 96-year-old mother is living and is still aware of her children's activities. The entire parish congratulates Sister Margaret Ann and wishes her a Wonderful future."
A parish celebration to honor Sister Nola Parr's Golden Jubilee Was celebrated on April 25, 1985. At the Mass celebrated by Sister's brother, Reverend Nola Parr, the choir sang "Great Saint Francis." At the reception in the social hall Sister received cards and gifts. The tribute to Sister in the PARISH PORTRAIT stated:
"Sister Mary Nola was born and reared in Nebraska. She was educated by the School Sisters of St. Francis and attended high school at St. Joseph Convent in Milwaukee. She was then received into the School Sisters of St. Francis on June 13, 1935. Along with her life as a Sister she was preparing for the teaching profession. Sister was assigned to missions in Wisconsin, Illinois, New York, Colorado and Nebraska. In 1964 and 1966 Sister taught at Our Lady of Lourdes School and returned as librarian in 1981. Sister Mary Nola enjoys good reading and good music. Her advice to young people is. "Pray. Listen to what God is telling you and fallow it. Be joyful in the lord!"
The next festivity honors not a Sister, but the product of their education, Father Tom Furlong. In June 1985, the parishioners had the unique Opportunity to celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the ordination of their pastor, Father Furlong, who grew up at Lourdes and was educated by the School Sisters of St. Francis.
Sister Maria was his eighth grade teacher. Father said one of his many joys in the priesthood was his coming home to Lourdes as pastor. Maybe its providence maybe it's happenstance, but it is a curious thing sometimes how the events of life unfold as they did in the life of Father Thomas Furlong.
In 1935, eight-year-old Tom Furlong served his first Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes. Forty-six years later, in 1981, he came back as pastor.
When plans were launched by the Parish Council to celebrate Father's twenty-fifth anniversary to the priesthood, it Was decided that the school children would initiate the event with a program entitled, "This Is Your Life", which would be a complete program for Father.
As various phases of his life were narrated, the students performed.
During the first number, "The Creation" given by the eighth graders in choral speaking and pantomime, Father's mother and his two brothers, Jack and Jerry Came in. To recall his First Communion day, the third graders dressed in their communion clothes and sang their First Communion Song. Two boys dressed as servers represented his days as server. To celebrate his Irish heritage, the first graders, with a flourish of fife and drum, sang McNamara's Band. The sixth grade girls danced the Irish jig.
To recall the sports competition between Lourdes and Windsor, the neighborhood public school, the fifth graders sang and pantomimed "Take Me Out To The Ball Game." During this scene, Mrs. DeJoy and several men of the parish who were Father's classmates came into the scene. Because Mr. Furlong and also Father himself worked as stenographer for the Union Pacific, "I've Been Working On The Railroad" was sung and dramatized by the second graders.
To honor his service in the Navy as patrol craft escort out of Pearl Harbor and his days on the USS Perkins off the Coast of Korea, the fifth graders danced the Sailors Hornpipe to the tune of "Anchors Aweigh." The fourth graders reminded Father of his love of skiing in Colorado by singing a parody to the tune of "Skaters Waltz."
To commemorate his seminary days in Conception, Missouri, and St. Paul, Minnesota, the junior high school students sang "Impossible Dream." The climax of "This Is Your Life" Was the recitation by the junior high school students of "The Beautiful Hands of a Priest." An eighth grade boy impersonating Father Furlong, walked onto the stage while Bishop Milone came from the rear of the hall to perform in simulation the Ordination Ceremony.
A Mass of Thanksgiving was celebrated On June 2; Father Paul Peter gave the homily. The Jubilee Committee prepared a commemorative book, a delicious dinner and a reception. Comments emphasized that the Silver Anniversary celebration was more than personal, more than family-a community experience, a parish celebration, and a sign of God"s love for His people. Father thanked for the twenty-five years God gave him to share in the priesthood of Christ and for the added favor of being "at home" in Lourdes Parish at this time.
One thing is certain; when there is a large group of Sisters in a parish there will be many Jubilees to celebrate. The next One on the scheduled list was Sister Mary Deermer. The parish celebrated with Sister on April 20, 1986, with a Mass at 9:00 a.m. and a reception from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. A picture of Sister and the following tribute appeared in the PARISH PORTRAIT.
"Sister Mary, the fourth of nine children, was born in Stuart, Nebraska. She received her elementary education in Stuart and Newport. She entered the School Sisters of St. Francis, Milwaukee, in June 1935 and was received into the Community in June 1936.
After reception into the Community, Sister served as a homemaker in Wisconsin and Illinois. She enjoyed doing Cooking for the Sisters who taught in sChoo7s.
In 1962 Sister Was asked by her Superiors if she would be willin9 to go to Central America where the School Sisters had established schools. Without hesitation Sister responded with a hearty, "Yes, if there is where I am chosen to go, I will gladly serve." For eight years Sister worked among the people of Costa Rica and Honduras. She served as a homemaker for the Sisters and also managed the school cafeteria. She taught the native Sisters how to cook and bake, but always had to leave the rice and beans in their daily diet. She not only taught the Sisters, but once a week she taught a class for women in the area. And, of Course, we all know what an excellent "baker" Sister Mary is! While in Costa Rica, she entered her pineapple turnover in a Contest and Won a prize of $850 (American money).
Sister also worked in a hospital and orphanage in Honduras. Here, too, she taught the natives how to make the best use of fruits and vegetables that grew in their own country. She had learned the trick of substituting what they had for what they had been Used to in the United States and passed this trick on to the natives, and thereby provided variety in their mea7s.
In 1970 Sister returned to the States, and happily for all of us here at Lourdes, she came to Our Lady of Lourdes where she not only cooks and bakes but also spreads happiness among all of us who know her. Cooking and baking are not only a "job" for Sister Mary, but also this type of work for Sister Mary is "truly an art."
We can best Sum up Sister Mary's philosophy in her own words, "As a homemaker, I love my work. I love to pray. I love to serve the Sisters with whom I live, and I love to enjoy people. I thank God every day for my Religious Vocation, and for the many blessings God have given me during these fifty years. "
The most dramatic event of the year 1987 was the celebration of the fifty years of service the Sister gave at Lourdes. Throughout the 50 years the Sisters served at Lourdes, many changes occurred, but two things remained constant the education of the students and the appreciation of the priests and parishioners for the Sisters' services.
Under the leadership of Father Thomas Furlong, a graduate of Lourdes and present pastor, plans began for a golden jubilee celebration of the Sisters' services. Approximately 75 Sisters attended the April 26 celebration.
The Sisters expressed in the PARISH PORTRAIT the following:
"Do you know why we are still here after 50 years? This is a great parish of dedicated people who have always considered the Sisters part of their parish family. We know there is no other parish in the city that demonstrated as you did your appreciation of our fifty years of service.
In Our renewal of vows, which you greeted with a round of applause, you heard us say, "We profess service to all the people of Gad." How easily it was for us to make that renewal in a parish where we are truly appreciated.
We owe a special thanks to Father Furlong who initiated the celebration - to Father Burke - for supporting the idea and to Father Sullivan who joined us in the festivity.
Where Can we find words of thanks to express Our appreciation to the ladies of the Guild for the delicious banquet and for the beautifully decorated tables which added glamour to the evening meal (a Special thanks, too, to the men's club for the bar which added to the 'spirit' of the evening.) The ladies of this parish do not only have culinary skills, but also artistic ability demonstrated by the beautiful banners and corsages. Each Sister felt "Special" because of the blue corsage she received.
Only in this parish is there a choir that can present "heavenly" liturgical music in the morning and in the afternoon entertain with "hits" better than any given On Broadway. After Mass when you sang "Great St. Francis" We were taken back in Spirit to St. Joseph Convent Chapel. There was no way we could just listen. We joined in the singing.
We owe a special thanks to all the parishioners who joined us in the afternoon reception, and to those who gave us monetary gifts and cards.
And now we close our litany of thanks with the prayer we say daily for au r benefactors: "May God bless with eternal life all those who do us good.
And at this time we would also like to add that your love made our Jubilee a joy and each moment a memory."
The celebration of Sister Patrice's 60th Jubilee and Sister Mary Sicilda's Golden was combined with the Parish celebration. The two Sisters also received monetary gifts and cards from the parishioners.
Although the celebration of 50 years of service was considered a climax, the Sisters had to admit that two other events the fruits of their labor could not be considered second-rate.
The first of these was the entrance of John Dugick into the Benedictine Community as a Brother. It is interesting to note that his contacts with the Benedictines extended to his early youth when he was an altar boy at Lourdes. Various priests from Mount Michael came to assist with Masses and confessions. John Was impressed with the friendly nature of Father Joseph Peters, so he asked to enter the Community. Father Abbot advised him to wait until later. Twenty-four years later he asked again and was accepted. He chose the religious name Joseph because of his contacts with Father Joseph, who had passed to his eternal reward. On the weekends he also helped cook for the community. In February 1989, he professed his Vows.
The second event was the ordination of Tom Bauwens. He was the sixth of nine children all of whom attended Lourdes grade school. Father Bauwens graduated from Lourdes grade school in 1974 and from South High in 1978.
After attending UNO for a short time, he entered the seminary at St. Thomas College in St. Paul, Minnesota, where he completed his Bachelor's Work with a major in psychology. He pursued his first year of theological studies at St. John's in Collegeville, Minnesota, and spent one semester studying in the Holy land. He received his Master degree in theology. He celebrated his Mass of Thanksgiving on Sunday, June 7, 1987.
Will there be any more celebrations in Lourdes now that 1970 is coming to an end? Sister Corbinella answered that question by saying: "Lourdes is always celebrating something or other." Two years ago we celebrated the "something", our 50 years service at Our Lady of Lourdes, and now in 1989 We celebrate "the other" Sister Corbinella's 70th and Sister Rita's and Clarella's Golden Jubilees.
This past year we made a study of the charisms of our foundresses. Jubilees revive our charisms because the history of Our Community is written in the lives of our Sisters. Just as Mother Alexia left Baden and the beautiful vineyards of the Rhineland, so did Sister Corbinella leave the lovely town of Mariette, Wisconsin, Sister Rita, Iowa, where the tall Corn grows, and Sister Clarella the golden grain of Kansas to say, "Yes" to the lord.
For the past twenty years Sister Corbinella's charism has been to prepare the altar and sanctuary for liturgical services. Each year Sisters Rita and Clarella renewed their commitment to share in Christ's mission in the educational development of the intermediate grade children. Formerly educational literature referred to them as "the Hopalong Cassidy's, the broncos." Today they are called "rock-and-roll kids." 00 they rock or roll? Sisters Rita and Clarella have to decide that.
The children of this age are well acquainted with the movie, "Star Wars" which represents a large city floating in space, where there is a struggle of good and evil. It was a Coincidence that the theme of the Mass for the Jubilarians referred to a large city coming down from heaven where earth becomes Gad's dwelling place, thus reminding the teachers of the importance of preparing the children for the new earth and the new heaven.
As usual there was a reception in the afternoon and in the social hall where the Jubilarians received congratulations and cards and gifts from the parishioners.
COMMUNITY EXPANSION
After the School Sisters of St. Francis had two schools in Omaha, Lourdes and Ryan, they were hoping that there would be more. Their wish was partly fulfilled when a new parish, St. Gerald's, was built in Ralston. Sisters Jasper and Alvina shared the hospitality of the Lourdes Convent unti1 their Own was bui1t.
Since summer, some rumors about the formation of a province west of the Mississippi were Circulating. The Sisters had hoped it would be Omaha. The rumors became a reality When Mothers Clemens and Hyacinth planned an appointment with the Archbishop. They came to Lourdes and Monsignor Keliher accompanied them to the Chancery. After they had discussed the possibility of making Omaha the center of the new province, Monsignor Keliher Was requested by the Archbishop to locate a large home near some Church for a temporary Provincial House. Naturally, Monsignor hoped to secure such a home in the vicinity of Lourdes, Where there were many large homes.
To celebrate the transaction, a dinner was to be served in the Lourdes Convent. Monsignor Ulrich, Superintendent of the Archdiocesan Schools, Father Schad, Superintendent of Ryan High, Monsignor O'Donnell, Pastor of St. Patrick's Church, Fremont, the Sisters from Fremont and Ryan High School were invited to join Monsignor Keliher and his Assistant, Father Robert Smith, Mother Clemens and Mother Hyacinth and the Sisters of Lourdes in the celebration. Thus, January 6, 1961, the Western Province was born!
After the news was officially released, the Sisters of Our Lady of Lourdes assumed responsibility of the launching of a stamp and coupon drive to secure furnishings for the Provincial house. An SOS to the missions of the West resulted in a tremendous response to assist in the drive.
When Father Hupp, Pastor of Christ the King Church, heard that efforts were being made to secure a large residence for a Province House, he Contacted Sister Maria about the sale of the Hyslop residence on 90th Street. Mrs. Hyslop invited the Sisters to tour the residence. Sisters Maria and Loyola, who were visiting in the West, and Sisters Rita and Matthew were given a grand tour of the mansion. Immediately Sister Maria contacted Mother Clemens and gave a glowing account of the Spaciousness of the house and grounds. Mothers Clemens, Hyacinth and Sister Samuel came to visit "the Dream house" an expression used by the Sisters from Lourdes. The transaction was made and for $65,000 the beautiful home situated on 2.7 acres of lovely grounds became the home of the Western Province.
Monsignor Keliher, who had been searching for a large house, agreed that the Hyslop residence would be better than the one he suggested.
Fortunately, the parishioners of Lourdes purchased for the Sisters a Dodge Pioneer Station Wagon, because many trips to 90th Street had to be made to transport "the loot" an expression for the things purchased from the stamps and coupons.
Now that the formation of the Western Province was official, all the Sisters of the Community received forms to indicate their choice of Province. The Western Province would include the states of Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, Colorado and Montana. At that time 300 Sisters were missioned in these states.
It was decided that retreats would be held for the Sisters of the Western Province at Ryan High School. Gene Skalecki, one of the Community's faithful maintenance men, transported cots and blankets via truck from Mi1waukee. The guest room at Lourdes became his "hotel" on these many trips. He and Monsignor Keliher became very close friends.
It must have been very difficult for the Sisters at Lourdes to keep their attention on school affairs because of the Community's business in forming the Province, but they did sandwich a science demonstration with exhibits on the second floor of School. More than 200 parents attended.
To celebrate the second anniversary of the new convent, Father Smith furnished a steak dinner. Monsignor Keliher invited a friend to entertain the Sisters with a piano concert.
School events continued peacefully until May 17. However, that day was one of excitement when the news that Sister Patrice had been appointed Provincial and Sister Anaclete and Maria were named Councillors. The first two names seemed insignificant, but the Sisters were really excited when their beloved Sister Maria became a part of the team.
When the Sisters from the Western Province attended retreats at Ryan, they were invited to Lourdes to view the materials purchased with the stamps and coupons many of them had solicited from their students and parishioners.
Many of the Sisters of Lourdes wanted to be members of the "cleaning crew" for the Provincial House, but Sisters Grace and Dacia were "the chosen ones." Sister Grace also had the privilege of being, along with Sister Fortunate, the first Sisters to sleep in the house on 90th Street.
The Sisters from the West continued their efforts to financially furnish the Provincial House. Sister Dignata Coordinated an "Auxiliary." The Board Members were: Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Murphy, Mrs. Donna McCullough, Mr. and Mrs. William Barns. In April they conducted a bake sale that netted $1800. In May, Simultaneous bake sales at Shopping centers-90th and Maple, South roads and 50th and Grover were conducted. These netted $1,000. Despite a bad storm, the Auxiliary sponsored a Festival. Regardless of snow, the people supported the efforts. The proceeds from this and from Chance cards and raffles netted $2000. A generous Check of $1000 was added to the amount received.
The collecting of stamps and coupons continued, but the Sisters at Lourdes decided to vary the raising of money for the Building Fund for the Provincial House by conducting Bake Sales. Homemade bread and cookies made by the Sisters were sold at the Holiday Festival Booth-part of the Parish Festival of Lourdes. At one of these events the bakery items, plus $300 Worth of raffle cards netted $1000. The Sisters tried to repay the parishioners by baking bread to be sold at the various parish functions.
At one of these functions Sister Theola Won a colored TV. Since it was considered too much of a luxury for a Convent, the Sisters gave it to Monsignor. He immediately returned it, giving strict orders that it was to remain in the Convent, and that he would pay for the installation. At Christmas he purchased a hair dryer for the Sisters. No Mother Provincial could thwart Monsignor Keliher's decisions! So the Sisters at Lourdes were some of the first to "go modern!"
When the parishioners of Lourdes presented Monsignor Keliher with a new car for his 35th Anniversary, he donated his DeSoto to the Province.
It proved to serve the needs of the Province for many years. Unfortunately, Monsignor "blacked out" when leaving a restaurant and his new car was wrecked. However, his insurance covered the damage. Monsignor also donated upholstered kneelers to the Province Chapel.
Sister Maria was instrumental in securing cash for coupons and stamps this, plus donations from parishioners, enabled her to purchase a Ford Station Wagon and a bus for the Province. She was also successful in getting one of her former students to give a large discount on a truck which Was Used to transport heavy articles from the Provincial House to the farm house on the land purchased for the Province.
HOSPITALITY HOUSE
The proximity of Lourdes to Creighton University made it easy for Sisters assigned to study to live at Lourdes. Information in the Diary shows that between the years 1950 to 1966 the following Sisters studied to be Pharmacists and lived at Lourdes: Sisters Roman, Sigfrieda, Adriann, Ann Karen, Antonette, Edwardis, Terelle and Roman.
The proximity of Lourdes to St. Joseph Hospital also made it a Convenient place for Sisters recuperating after surgery and hospitalization. The following Sisters enjoyed restful days and a private room, which they could not have had at the Provincial House: Sisters Clarice, Cera, Milford, Etta and Tabitha.
Several doctors said they would release Sisters from the hospital Sooner if they knew the Sisters would be assured of proper nursing care. After many petitions asking for a nurse to be assigned to the Western Province to fill this need, Sister Leocretia came to take care of the Sisters at Lourdes and in the Provincial House.
Even before the Province was established, Lourdes was known as Lourdes Hotel because Sisters en route to Milwaukee and points to the West would take a cab, rest in the convent and be served hot soup and sandwiches by the good homemakers. Sister Taureta did this for 18 years. Her good homemade bread was always part of the menu.
Monsignor Keliher Certainly had intuition when he built the convent to provide 20 bedrooms. He himself enjoyed having guests, so he thought the
Sisters should have rooms for their guests, too. Since the Sisters in Omaha knew this, they would call and ask for accommodations. So, when Sisters Nola and Mary Sicilda, who were teaching at Ryan High School, asked to board at Lourdes, their request was granted. In the dining room of the convent is a plaque with a quote, "You are a stranger here, but once", Certainly applied to them, because instead of being guests, they became a part of the teaching staff.
Later Sister Mary Angela Baumert, Bookkeeper for the Province, requested to live at Lourdes and commute to New Cassel. Sister enjoyed "gardening", so in the evenings she would spend time Planting and Watering the beans, tomatoes and cucumbers. When Sister Mary Angela Was commissioned to go to Germany to Work in the Provincial House in Erlenbad, Sister Mary lost a good helper.
When the Sisters withdrew from St. Anne, Omaha, Sister Mary Ann Eichenseer requested to Continue teaching there. She then asked to live in the convent at Lourdes and commute to St. Anne's. The Sisters were happy to have an addition al chauffeur at least for the weekends.
Two other convents in Omaha, St. Patrick's and Our Lady of Grace, have been known for their hospitality not only to Sisters recuperating from illnesses but also to Sisters traveling to visit relatives and friends. When these two convents terminated, it was decided that Lourdes would become a "Hospitality House."
The following article from "THE GOOD NEWS FROM LOURDES" formerly known as THE PARISH PORTRAIT a monthly publication shows how Lourdes continued living up to its name 'The Hospitality House.'
"THE MORE THE MERRIER"
When Ryan High School (later St. Joseph) closed, some of the Sisters applied for teaching Positions elsewhere. The convent adjacent to the high school and known as Our Lady of Grace was occupied by a few Sisters who remained on the staff of St. Joseph and also by some semiretired Sisters. However, in time, because of the need for nursing care, some of them went to retirement centers in Illinois and Wisconsin. The high cost of maintaining this large convent for the few remaining Sisters became financially difficult, so a decision was made to sell the convent.
The Sisters who wished to remain in Omaha requested to live with the Sisters in Our Lady of Lourdes Convent. After negotiations were made With Father Furlong and the Parish Council regarding a fee for rent and utilities, the Sisters moved into the convent. The Sisters, Dignata, Gertrude, Lois and Martha, are grateful for the hospitality and are happy to become part of the Lourdes Parish Family that they will support with prayer.
Sister Dignata Urzendowski served at Lourdes for fifteen years as a teacher and librarian. In 19B1, she requested semiretirement at Our Lady of Grace. Sister remained ere until October 13. Then she went to Maria Linden, Rockford, Illinois, a retirement center for Sisters who are ambulatory as well as those who require nursing care. Since Sister Dignata is active, she wi11 be10ng to the first group.
Sister Gertrude Kerkman taught at Randolph, Elgin and Mary Our Queen. Sister also taught fifth grade at Lourdes from 1961 to 1962 and sixth grade from 1962 to 1963. Since Sister is already acquainted with this environment, her adjustment shou1d not be too difficu1t.
Sister Lois Schulte who for 25 years taught English and Social studies at Ryan (St. Joseph) is acquainted with Lourdes because of the students from here whom she taught. Sister also directed the Alumni Association. She plans to contact eighth grade graduates from Lourdes and organize an Alumni group to keep them in contact with their parish.
Sister Martha Brester was a homemaker at the School Sisters of St. Francis Provincial House, now the New Cassel Retirement Center. Sister was the assistant cook at Ryan High School cafeteria, a homemaker at St. Patrick's Convent and a homemaker and chauffeur at Our Lady of Grace.
Sister brings two special skills, cooking and chauffeuring, to the Sisters at Lourdes.
Now that the Sisters at Lourdes have a Martha and a Mary in the kitchen, where is Lazarus? Sister Mary does have brothers, but none named Lazarus. However, she does have a sister named Kathryn, who like Mary is a skilled homemaker. When the Provincial Superior suggested that Sister Kathryn help Sister Mary with her domestic duties, both Sisters were happy.
They will work well as a team. Sister Kathryn Deermer served as a homemaker at Mary Our Queen and St. Peter and Paul. Sister was also a dietary aide at Parkside Manor, Stuart, Nebraska.
We welcome the Sisters to Our Parish Family as we say, "The More the Merrier! "
EDUCATION APOSTOLATE
Since it was required by law that school Officials periodically inspect all nonpublic schools and report to the State Department, Usually the principal of Windsor and Park Schools Was delegated to make the inspection of Our Lady of Lourdes School. Mrs. Doris Fields did this for many years and was warmly greeted by the students. In 1965 when she came she was accompanied by Fred Thomas, Reporter for the WORLD HERALD. Mrs. Fields told him that OLL's staff morale, the condition of the building, its wealth of teaching materials, its educational television and up-to-date programs in modern math and other Subjects were excellent. The reporter saw the ITA program in action and how the children easily switched from reading ITA (Initial Teaching Alphabet) to the regular reading program. When he visited the eighth grade, the members of the Civic Club explained that they had committees for various subjects. The penmanship committee had motivated their group of eight so that there was only one member Whose Writing had not improved. (The reporter admitted privately to Sister Luan that the sample of the student who had not made such improvement was better than his.)
The article written by Fred Thomas in the WORLD HERALD stated that cooperation between public and nonpublic school Officials will increase as funds from the Elementary and Secondary Education Act become available for all pupils. Catholic schools, for example are to be eligible for books, magnetic tapes, Phonograph records and other materials that are used or approved for public schools.
Since 1966 Our Lady of Lourdes has been allotted a Specified amount of government money for the purchase of books (library and textbooks) non-book materials, equipment and services for the specified use of the students. These materials remain the property of the United States Department of Education. Each item is identified with a label Title II B, Title IV B or Chapter 2 and a stamp indicating the school borrowing and the year borrowed.
Every two years an inventory is required of the years indicated on a form. An evaluation of the previous year's materials must accompany the requests of the current year. Each request requires the answers to these questions: Who is being consulted? What is the need? Who will benefit? What are the Objectives? How will materials be evaluated next year? Because of the monetary assistance the school has received, the students have been offered resources above average. Doctor Dean Lusienski has acted as Nebraska Agent for the nonpublic schools.
Because of the professional development of the teachers and their membership in Professional Organizations, Our Lady of Lourdes has been approved by the State Department. This is done by written form and not by visitation. However, each year two representatives from the Archdiocesan Educational Office Visit the school and submit a written report to the Principal, Pastor, Parish Board of Education and the Provincial of the Community.
Each year, prior to the Opening of school, a faculty meeting is held.
A statement of philosophy is the first item on the agenda, and from this a general theme of the year is initiated. Goals for the year are outlined and weaknesses in the curriculum are noted with Suggestions for improvement.
Attitudes toward parents and students, faith quality attitudes, professional Qua1ity attitudes are reviewed.
At this meeting plans for the children's liturgies are discussed. When Monsignor Keliher was Pastor, it was customary for the children to attend eight o'clock Mass, which was optional. Later it was decided that one grade attend each day. When Mass time was changed to 8:30, it was suggested that grades 2, 3, and 4 attend Monday, 5 and 6 On Wednesday, and 7 and 8 on Friday. On First Fridays and Holy Days of Obligation two Masses are scheduled to accommodate all the students. On All Saints day, the students impersonate the Saints. On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving in an all school Mass at the Offertory, the children present the canned goods, food, and clothing to be used for the poor. On the Wednesday of Holy Week, the 7th and 8th graders portray the Living Stations. The Crowning of Mary and the Living Rosary are always the "highlight" of the May Liturgy. At the 5:30 Mass on Christmas Eve, the fourth, fifth and sixth graders sing, and two students dressed as Mary and Joseph bring the Infant to the Crib.
Each year the students of all grades participate in various contests, such as the Archdiocesan spelling contest, Pro-Life, art and poetry contests. Each year eighth grade graduation is held in church and scholarships from the various high schools as well as those given by benefactors are awarded. Other awards, such as the Serra Club award for Altar Boys, Rotary Club award, Science Fair awards and trophies for outstanding leadership and special services are presented.
For many years Lourdes had two classes for each grade, including kindergarten morning and afternoon sessions. All of these were self-contained rooms until 197B when departmentalized classes were introduced in the junior high section. Temporary walls were added Dr Subtracted to meet the needs of the group. Departmentalization was introduced in 1984. Scholastic grouping was introduced in the junior high in 1969. Since 1966 Lourdes had a fulltime librarian, and since 1975, a fulltime gym teacher. In 1983 a fulltime computer teacher was hired. Lourdes has always had a fulltime music teacher, and since 1972 when the school enrolled in "Music in Catholic Schools", a band instructor takes care of instrumenta1 music.
Since 1983 a Spanish program initiated by Gross High School using cable TV enabled students of the junior high to participate. At first both 7th and 8th graders enrolled, but recently only 8th 9raders use the program for high school credit. Gross High School also initiated via cable an advanced math class for eighth grade students. This too can be taken for high school credit. Another innovation in the curriculum was the use of speech therapy. Students were transported by an Omaha Public School van to Field Club Public School.
Now the van comes on the school playground, and students who need help with speech meet with a specialist. In conjunction with the Chapter II Program, remedial help with reading and math is given to students from 9rades 2 to 4.
Every year each class participates in a field trip. Some of these include the zoo, Children's Museum, Lincoln Capital, legislature and planetarium, the farm, Scramm Park, State Fair and Joselyn Museum.
Cultural experiences for all students included Gifford Children's Theater now within walking distance of the school, performing at the Festival of Trees in Aksarben, performing at the "Old Market", band concerts given by Creighton Prep, Gross, Marian and Cathedral High School. Yearly since 1965 students from Lourdes have attended the performance of the Omaha Symphony Orchestra. In 1965, 66 buses transported 12,000 students from parochial and public schools. We were happy that Lourdes Was part of the event of "History in the Making."
School projects to help the poor are conducted every year. These include collecting canned goods for Stephen's Center, Christmas Seals for Holy Childhood and a Lenten Mission Collection. A Walkathon project netted over $1,000 for Stephen's Center.
Parents have always played a major role in school activities. The PTA later known as the Ladies Guild purchased many of the kitchen Utensils for the Convent and equipment for the School. The Men's Club assumed responsibility for athletic equipment. Parents Volunteer for playground supervision, library aides, health screening in conjunction with the school nurse, children's fun day, Jitney lunch (served once a month) field trips, adult safety patrol sponsors, presenters for "Value Life" programs.
Every year at the beginning of the School term a "Meet the Faculty" is sponsored. At "Open House" several times a year, parents are encouraged to visit the classrooms. In preparation for the reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation, parents attend meetings in which the priest explains the role of the parents in preparing the youngsters for the reception of the sacraments.
Parents receive Special Handbook containing information about School activities. They also receive a "Calendar Activities" of the year, a monthly calendar and a newsletter. Frequent in-between bulletins are also sent to the parents to keep them informed of school activities.
The principal attends the Parish Council meetings in order to present school events. The principal and two teachers attend the Parish Education Meeting. Some of the parents of the children are members of the Parish Council and the Education Committee.
In addition to the Ladies Guild and the Men's Club, an organization called "Home and School" was initiated. Suggestions for the improvement of school policies are presented but their finalization has to be approved by the principal and all the faculty members.
Many events about educational activities have been Published in the Catholic Voice, but very little appeared in the WORLD HERALD. However, On December 1980, First Friday Liturgy, because it was hot in church, some children became ill and had to leave Church. Policeman Anderson, passing by, saw them being taken to school to receive help.
Thinking the illness was due to carbon monoxide in church, he called the rescue squad. When the children returned to school from church some of them said they felt ill, so they reported to the office. As a result, 41 students were taken to various hospitals. Assistant fire chief, Robert Warsocki said, "It was better not to take a chance, and so he ordered the students to be taken to the hospital. " A11 were released because no symptoms were found. Several doctors attributed the incident to "hysteria. "
The Metropolitan District Utilities inspectors checked the church for many days to verify that carbon monoxide was not the cause of the illness. However, the incident appeared in the WORLD HERALD for a number of successive days and also on TV. The incident was truly an example of "contagious hysteria."
SUMMER APOSTOLATES
In addition to teaching weekly catechetical classes for public school students, the Sisters Volunteered to catechize in the new parishes being organized on the west side of Omaha. Every Saturday, Sisters Georgetta, Richard and Grace catechized at Christ the King until Mary Our Queen parish was formed. These three Sisters and Sister Victima also taught CCO Saturday classes at Offutt Air Base. The Sisters Were disappointed that the community did not accept the offer to staff the new school built at the base.
In 1965 and 1966 Sisters Idalia, Richard and Grace catechized every Saturday at Holy Family. In the summer they were joined by Sisters from our own community and other communities. In addition to teaching, they visited some of the homes becoming acquainted with the poverty of that area.
Usually the high school students attending public schools received catechetical instructions from lay people. Several years Sister Ann Marie Bickelmeier helped organize the program with the help of Mr. Al Kelly. One experiment was the conducting of classes in private homes.
Because the city schools were in session until the end of May and sometimes the beginning of June, the Sisters at Lourdes could not respond to the early appeal for catechizing in rural areas. However, they did volunteer to catechize in the latter part of June and the beginning of July. In 1967, Sister Alexis catechized at Clarinda, Iowa, and Sister Idalia at Clear Creek, Iowa. In 1971 to 1976 Sister Agnessa catechized at Greeley, Colorado, and in the summer of 1974, was joined by Sister Idalia. In 1972, Sisters Regina Marie and Ann Marie taught at Bellwood and Bruno, Nebraska.
In the summer of 1976 Sister Idalia taught at O'Neill and Amelia, Nebraska. In the summer of 1984 Sisters Alexis and Agnessa taught at Lyons, I Nebraska. For three consecutive summers, 1983-1985, Sister Idalia taught at Howard, South Dakota. In 1986, she also catechized at Lacona, Iowa, and in 1988, Anita, Iowa. Sister Agnessa taught at Butte and Spencer, Nebraska, in 1988 and 1989.
In 1971 and 1972 Sister Mary Deermer cooked for the novices who were engaged in a Summer Formation Program at Hales Corners, Wisconsin.
During the summer of 1980, 1981, 1982, 1984 and 1988, Sister Mary Sicilda offered her services in the summer program at Walls, Mississippi. Buses brought the children at about 8 o'clock to the mission grounds where they were divided into groups of about 20. Each group was assigned to a leader who was responsible for the activities of the morning. After breakfast rotated activities of swimming, Sports, crafts and hiking followed. Dinner was served at 11:30 and then the children were transported home. This program provides much happiness to these underprivileged children.
The teaching of remedial classes at Lourdes has always been a high priority. Since 1971 Sister Clarella made the teaching of reading, math and English her summer apostolate. For many summers Sister Richard and Idalia devoted many hours to helping children learn reading and math.
Another summer priority was assembling paper donated from the federal building and various companies. Since the school is very hot during the summer months, the task was not an easy one. However, it became a "labor of love" because the paper could be used for duplicating. This saved hundreds of dollars for the school.
The Sisters at Lourdes always interested in improving their teaching ability attended many educational programs sponsored by the Archdiocesan Office of Education and the SSSF Community. One that the Sisters looked forward to was the summer La Farge Program in Milwaukee. Because of the interest of the Sisters in the West, in 1971, Sisters Pauline and Augustine decided to initiate one in Omaha. Our Lady of Lourdes Was selected as the location. It was decided that the project be Intercommunity, So Sisters from various communities joined the SSSF's and shared their talents in teaching knitting, macram", sewing, nutrition, physical education and scripture. Mrs. Marnie Miller, who conducted the physical education classes at Ryan, said the Sisters were equally as good as the aspirants she coached at Ryan. Fifty-one Sisters attended the classes from one to four every Saturday.
The program culminated in a "Day of Togetherness" beginning with Mass offered by Father Thomas Halley, S.J., followed by a delicious lunch.
Sisters Augustine, Pauline and Mary Dingman, Provincial Superior, expressed happiness for the success of the program where communities could share their talents.
An exhibit displaying the crafts of the Sisters gave evidence of the mastered skills.
In the summer, the Sisters devoted many hours to preparing attractive classrooms and formulating lesson plans for the year. The librarians also spent many hours cataloging books, and arranging the visual materials for the use of the teachers. Busy classroom teachers appreciated this service and also that they received help for teaching library skills to their students.
The homemakers at Lourdes-not to be outdone by busy teachers had the task of entertaining Sisters who stopped at Lourdes en route to various Points further West. They also spent time Canning fruits and vegetables. The shelves in the Lourdes basement gave testimony to their labor.
ASSOCIATE PASTORS
Since Father Robert Smith and the pastors of Our lady of Lourdes Ire mentioned in Our history, We would now like to give recognition to the other associate pastors and their role in the religious education of the children.
Father Milone, now Bishop of Great Falls, Montana, was very faithful and punctual in giving religion instructions. Periodically he returned for various functions and always recognized the Sisters on those Occasions. His most important return was his presence for Father Furlong's Silver Jubilee Celebration of "This Is Your Life."
Father Ward had the ability to motivate the students to sing. He had a powerful voice and he wanted them to participate in the Mass with "gusto." One of his favorite hymns was "Lord, Teach Us How to Pray." Father's cheerfulness was contagious.
Father Partusch, a graduate of Ryan, brought with him a great lave for music and sang like a troubadour. He was very faithful in giving religious instructions. The sixth grade teachers especially appreciated his Use of visual aids to prepare the children for the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Father Steffensmeier was very much appreciated by the primary teachers because he had the gift of formulating questions so that the children could understand the doctrine. His pleasant disposition attracted the children.
Father Malloy's special interest in "canoeing" made him popular. Although he was small of stature, he was physically strong and good at repair work, which rated him high with the custodian. He also faithfully gave religious instructions.
Father Ryberg was a Columban Missionary, but requested to become a Diocesan priest. Father encouraged the people of Lourdes to study scripture and Conducted classes for this purpose. He did give religious instruction to the older students.
Father James Kramper, S.J., born in Omaha, Was ordained in 1944 with 61 others in his class. He served at Campion, Missouri, for seven years and in 1953 came to Crei9hton University where he taught theol09Y and was librarian from 1953 to 1964. The quote in the PARI SH PORTRAIT gives a good description of Father's impression on the people of Lourdes:
"All of us at Lourdes have gained something from the short time that Father has been with us and his leaving will certainly be our loss. Please know, Father Kramper, that when you leave Lourdes, a part of you remains and our prayers and good wishes go with you."
Father was very interested in the spiritual welfare of the students and gave religious instructions to all the students. He was very interested in preparing the younger children for their First Holy Communion.
Father Kramper Was distinguished from his relative by being referred to as "the young Father Kramper." Father Was in residence at Lourdes because of his apostolate with "the youth movement." Sometimes he had Mass on Sunday, and his homilies were always simple, recalling the days of his youth on the farm. It was evident from his homilies that he laved his family and frequently recalled the lessons he learned from his father. Sometimes he visited the younger children in school and had the special skill of reaching their level with his simple Stories.
Father Wolbach saw action in the Pacific during World War II, and served in the Fourth Marine Division. A summary of his apostolate at Lourdes written in the PARISH PORTRAIT gives a good description.
"Father Wolbach gave ready service to the people of Lourdes. His homilies were delivered in a direct, sincere manner never fearful of calling "a spade a spade". With fidelity he carried out his mission to teach and bring the Word of Gad. In the children's liturgies he stressed Gospel values. He was faithful in visiting the sick and the dying. Some people did not get to know him Socially, but those who did, discovered his keen sensitivity of care and concern, his spirit of deep gratitude, and most of all his subtle wit."
The Sisters agree with the above quote, and were always happy when Father returned to Lourdes for the various parish functions.
Father Ortmeier was assigned to Paul VI High School. After the merger with Ryan, he was assigned to the new St. Joseph, where he taught sophomore and senior religion classes and acted as Campus Minister. Even though "only in residence", he said a weekday Mass, did counseling, marriage preparations, confessions and Sunday Mass. At ordination he chose as his theme, "Joy through Service." He certainly lived up to his theme as everyone can testify by his famous laugh. City folks learned much about the farm from his homilies. At the "sign of Peace" he walked down the aisles and said, "Peace, and have a good day!" He prided himself in being one of the "biggest go big red fans" in the parish. He received much teasing when Nebraska lost any games, but being a good sport, he knew how to "laugh it off. 1/
Father Sanderson was ordained in 1983 and came to Lourdes as his first assignment. He devoted much time to working with the lectors, the Legion of Ma and the Eucharistic Ministers. He enjoyed working with youth groups and the eighth grade CCD class. He loved to sing at some of the parish liturgies and had great skill in gardening. The older people will remember with gratitude his great devotion to Mary and his Monthly Benediction. When asked what he enjoyed most at Lourdes, he responded, "I Would have to say that working with Sister Alexis and the teachers and children of Lourdes has been a particular joy for me. I thank God and our Blessed Lady for sending me to Lourdes for my first assignment. It will be hard to leave so many good friends, but I am looking forward to meeting the challenges of my new assignment. "
Father Sullivan, because of his former contacts With Father Furlong, requested to be in residence at Lourdes. Father is unique since he is a medical doctor and priest. Before studying for the priesthood, he was accepted into medical school but changed his idea and Went to the seminary instead. He got his PhD in St. Louis, and his MD at Creighton University. He says he prefers the title "Father" to "Doctor."
He helps in the parish by saying Mass on weekdays and Sunday. He says Mass in the convent for the Sisters, which makes it convenient for them during inclement Weather.
Father Burke, a "second career priest" is the father of six children and the grandfather of ten. He attended Creighton University and served as a Major in the Infantry in World War II and also in Korea. From 1946 to 1956 he was the purchasing agent for Creighton University and the production Planning manager for Proctor and Gamble's Duncan Hines plant. He was also a certified public accountant. He was married for 40 years. When his wife died of cancer, he became a priest. He studied for Master of Divinity at Sacred Heart School of Theology, Hales Corner, and Wisconsin. After his ordination he was assigned as Assistant Pastor to Lourdes. He claimed "affinity" with the SSSF' s because of his contacts with Sisters Roy and Martine at Hales Corner. Father Burke's zeal in preparing the children for their First Holy Communion, and his interest in the children's liturgies made him "Special" With the teachers of the primary grades.
Father Augustine Mulanjany was born in Kirola, India. He served as Diocesan priest in his native country for ten years. An appeal from Brazil was instruct mental in his going there, where he worked as a missionary for five years. He was then assigned to the Cathedral Parish and Mary Our Queen in Omaha. When Father Burke became ill, Father Augustine came to Lourdes. When interviewed he said he had only kind words to say about the priests, sisters and staff at Lourdes. Father remained only a short time because of his language difficulties.
Father Emmett Meyers was born on a farm near Bloomfield, Nebraska. He attended Catholic University, Washington, D.C. He was the administrator of the High Schools at Columbus and Randolph. He served parishes in Bellevue, Jackson and Crofton. For five years he served as director of personal renewal for the Archdiocese. Father had a special gift of making the children's liturgies meaningful by Using visual imagery. The fifth and sixth graders appreciated his participation in their Sports activities at noon. Father's previous Contacts with our Community at Randolph and Crofton made it easy for the Sisters at Lourdes to get acquainted with him.
Father Russell Monzu graduated from Ryan High School in 1962. He entered the Franciscan Order, (D.F.M.) and was a missionary in Brazil for 23 years. He later was assigned to St. Joseph Parish in Omaha. When the Franciscans decided to withdraw from the Diocese, because of the shortage of priests in the community, Father Monzu requested to become a Diocesan priest.
While waiting for permission to withdraw from the Community, Father was assigned to Lourdes. Father is very faithful in giving religious instructions to the children, which makes him very special to the teachers.
CHURCH RENOVATION
In 1961 some of the parishioners decided the church needed Some renovation, so under the direction of Mr. Richard Shonka, the Men's Club, with the help of Father Robert Smith, bleached the church pews. New tile was also laid. Next the interior of the church was painted and beautiful stained 91asss windows were installed in the sanctuary.
Devotion to Mary was one of the characteristics of the people of Lourdes.
A large statue of Mary Was purchased by the Altar Society when the church was first built. It was to be placed in the niche above the front door of the church. This plan was not feasible, so it was placed in the front yard of the rectory. Later a shrine was built in back and on the south side of the rectory. When a plan was suggested to build a shrine to Mary on 32nd Avenue, the statue was donated to Elkhorn. Mary was truly "the Pilgrim Virgin."
During Lent of 1962 the old "Gingerbread" altars and communion table were replaced. Funds for the renovation were donated by the Altar Society.
The following information re9arding the beautiful shrine appears in a brochure composed by Monsignor Keliher:
"The shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes has been completed. It replaces the old grotto on the rectory lawn, which served as a replica of the Lourdes grotto in the high Pyrenees in France. The grotto is for devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes. A magnificent marble statue has been placed on the pedestal, an accurate copy of the original Lady of Lourdes in France.
Father James Hann, S.J. gave much of his time and talents to the construction of the shrine. Our own assistant, Father Smith, Worked with the Custodian of the school, Mr. Leo Rosinski in making what this shrine is today. Thanks also to Wallace Wajda and all the fine men who worked to comp1ete the job.
We urge the men of the parish as they pass the shrine to tip their hats and the women to show reverence. The children in school should be impressed by the dignity and sanctity of the sanctuary dedicated to our Blessed Mother. Let us show reverence for this hallowed Spot in our parish.
Would it not be a Worthy tribute of our parishioners to stop by and offer an "Ave" for themselves and their parish and country as they pass by? A kneeler is provided on the back floor of the shrine. You do not have to kneel, just stand. What more lovely and devotional Sentiment could there be that the people who attend Mass here at Our Lady of Lourdes would stop by the shrine and offer there a prayer for all of us: pastors, assistants, nuns, fellow parishioners, fellow citizens of our glorious country of which the Immaculate Conception is the patroness."
In the brochure the materials used in the shrine were listed, evidence of the patience and hard work used to assemble them.
The Ryan Nursery donated the pine trees surrounding the shrine, parents of Mrs. Bill Moore.
On February 11, 1962, Archbishop Bergan blessed the shrine. The next major project was the installing of beautiful stained-glass windows in the body of the church. Because heavy rains damaged the walls and floor of the church, the roof was replaced.
At this time it was decided to completely renovate the church to conform to liturgical changes.
The communion railing and the walls separating the Priest's Sacristy from the sanctuary were removed. The Boys' Sacristy Was converted into the Adoration Chapel.
Because a large stained-glass window of the Sacred Heart, purchased from St. Joseph's Hospital Chapel by "the Visiting Nurses of Lourdes Parish" was placed in the Adoration Chapel, the Section Was called "the Sacred Heart Chapel. "
New chairs replaced the kneelers in the choir and the loft was extended. Some new marble was added to the marble floor of the sanctuary, and new tile was placed on the floor in the body of the church. The marble from the communion rail was used for the huge font in the rear of the Church. The Stations of the Cross were "retouched" to bring out the beauty of the original oil paintings.
While the church was being redecorated, the social hall was used for Masses. Due to Father Sanderson's skill in placing the temporary altar in an artistic setting and arranging the Chairs in an orderly manner, the atmosphere was most reverent and comfortable.
After the improvement of the church, a plan was initiated to do something about the basement. The results of the Project made such a transformation, that it was decided to call it SAINT BERNADETTE HALL and not the "church basement." The name was Chosen because the Blessed Virgin at Lourdes appeared to Bernadette Soubirous.
A group of volunteers from the parish pledged their time and talents to provide the parish with a spacious, comfortable meeting and activities room that will help alleviate the burden of the scheduled meetings in the school social hall. All regular meetings of the Parish Council, the Legion of Mary, the Liturgy Committee, the Family Life Committee, the Ladies Guild and the Evangelization Committees will be held there.
The parish certainly owed a debt of gratitude to the thirty or forty parishioners who made the improvements Possible. Bequests from the wills of two former parishioners and the lottery calendar sales provided the funds, but the generous volunteer Workers saved the parish 50% of the projected cost of this improvement.
An Infant of Prague Statue, which had been donated to the church by Mr. and Mrs. Paul Hinchey, was placed in St. Bernadette Hall. When the church was renovated the statue was removed and redecorated by Mel Nields. Because of the devotion which the Sisters had to the Infant in their prayerful intercession on the 25th of each month for an increase of vocations, it was decided that it be placed in St. Bernadette Hall.
Another innovation is the erection of St. Jude Shrine, located in the northeast aisle alcove. It is a gift donated by Mr. and Mrs. Benschoter in honor of Mrs. Benschoter's parents. The preparation of the shrine are, focuses on a hand carved statue of St. Jude and a new stained glass window. Mr. Ray Kellogg was commissioned to carve the statue. The window is a creation of Dworak Stain Glass Company.
MEMORIALS
Sister Francita was assigned to Lourdes in 1947 and taught until 1957 when she became ill. Sister was taken to Milwaukee for surgery. Efforts to curtail the cancer failed and Sister passed to her eternal reward on
July 14. Some of the Sisters from Lourdes remained in Milwaukee after retreat so that they could attend the funeral. Monsignor Keliher offered Mass at Lourdes so that parishioners who knew her could attend.
The Convent Diary shows that special memorials were celebrated for students who died:
In 1954 Diane Socha, a sixth grade student, was accidently shot and killed during rifle practice in their basement. A small wood carved statue made in Italy was given to the Sisters in honor of Diane.
On April 17, 1963, in a ball game, David Bremser was injured and became unconscious. The team was not happy over the victory because David died the fo11owing day,
Truman Country Avey entered first grade in 1979. Although he was a victim of leukemia, he attended school and was able to complete first grade because of the tutoring he received from Sister Idalia. In August, he suffered a coma and lost the ability to walk and talk and may have lost part of his memory. But with the pluck he had and the generosity of his schoolmates and teacher Mrs. Martina Winchell, he made a comeback. His leukemia was in remission for some time. After he received a rocking chair purchased from the proceeds of a Bake Sale sponsored by all the students and a walker given by the Bellinghiere family, he was able to walk across his living room. His classmates prepared cards, letters and also taped messages. He was included in the daily mornin9 prayer and some of his classmates visited his home. However, unfortunately he contracted measles that made him very ill and resulted in his death. He was buried at a special Mass attended by all the students. Sister Idalia recalled his favorite expression that he would say after tutoring: "See you 1ater, al1igator!"
Sister Richard retired from teaching in 1970. Sister accepted the idea of Renewal very readily. She would facetiously say, "Renewal is the time
When Superiors stop telling you what to do and everybody else starts." Although Sister was a cheerful person, she did express some fears about retiring. She became ill September 4 and was taken to the hospital for Observation. The next morning when one of the nurses went to check on Sister's progress, she found that Sister had died. After the autopsy, Sister's coffin was brought to the church at 5 P.m. Vigil was kept by the men of the parish until 11:30 P.m. Mass was offered at 8:45, Tuesday. All the school children attended and after Mass walked around the coffin to take a final look at
Sister. It was interesting to note that some of the mothers lifted their small children to view Sister in the coffin. The coffin was then escorted to New Cassel for Mass for the relatives and friends. God took away Sister's fear of retiring by "retiring her to heaven!"
Although Sister Maria did not die at Lourdes, the PORTRAIT, the monthly parish News, paid tribute to her by saying, "Sister Maria left a legacy behind that will not be forgotten." So she is included in the Memorials.
In the year 1907, a seventeen-year-old girl from Carroll, Iowa, entered the School Sisters of St. Francis and one year later received the name Sister Maria but somehow or other at least in Nebraska, was known as "Sister Mary."
A flashback of her life shows her as a dedicated teacher and principal. Her first assignment was in Chicago, but the Lord did not leave her there. He wanted her to serve the people of Nebraska where she spent 65 years.
The first chapter of her Nebraska history started in Pierce where she taught eight years. Sister Perfecta Pint Was Sister Maria's first Postulant. Sister Maria also taught at Petersburg, Fremont and Howells. However, "the two great loves in her life" as she called them, were Stuart and Our Lady of Lourdes.
In her 15 years of service what impression did the vivacious Sister Maria have on Stuart? Because of her impact and that of good parents, 44 girls entered the School Sisters of St. Francis. These are her living memorials! What an impact!
What about her 23 years at Our Lady of Lourdes? In his homily Father Tom Fur10ngone of her eighth grade students who Conce1ebrated her Memorial Mass with Father Milone - now Bishop - former associate pastor at Lourdes facetiously eluded to "What do you do about a girl called Maria?" Judging from Father's remarks, she strictly "disciplined" him and his classmates but always added a great amount of love. Father alluded to her as "the queen one in command." Sister Nedine Ferris in her "Recollection of Sister Maria" after the Communion of the Mass, Supplemented Father's remarks about the affection and love of the people of Lourdes for Sister Maria, recalling how her father idolized Sister. Sister Nedine said that one thing that did puzzle her regarding Sister Maria Was how she always seemed to get what she wanted. Probably the answer is that Sister Maria Was Sister Maria - that God made only one and then threw the pattern away!
Sisters Will always recall her as the perfect hostess, because the old convent on the hill was known as "Hilltop Hotel. ' For the Irish expression, "the tea is always on the hearth" we could substitute "the soup is always on the stove" thanks to Sister Maria and Sister Taureta who served weary midnight travelers enroute to various places in Nebraska. Our Milwaukee Superiors kept an "open line" to Sister Maria, who had the special skill of getting timid Sisters to their destination.
The highlight of Sister Maria's life was the selection of Omaha as the center of the Western Province. Immediately Lourdes became a "beehive of activity" where many hours were spent assembling stamps and coupons to be used for furnishings and supplies for the newly purchased home on 90th Street.
A story is told that one day Sister Maria was driving along a highway, when one of the Sisters said, "look, Sister Maria, at that sign "Jesus Saves" and under it is another sign that says "Green Stamps." Sister Maria excitedly responded, "I love Jesus, but He cannot have any of our green stamps. We need them for the Provincial House."
Sister Maria said when the Province was formed she did not expect to be a part of the administration all she had worked for was to have a Provincial House in Omaha. However, we all agreed it was a great day for the West when she was named Second Councillor.
At the conclusion of her term as Councillor, Sister Maria went to Howells where she taught ?"?nglish and religion. When three Sisters were killed in Bellwood, Sister Maria volunteered her services to complete the teaching team. Both the pastor and the people were very grateful for this kind gesture.
Her final years of active service were spent tutoring at St. Peter and Paul, Omaha, helping one of her postulants, Sister Mary Schmaderer.
Finally, the dynamic Sister Maria had to say, "It is time for me to retire!" She went to Our Lady of Grace, where Sister Vianney and the other Sisters welcomed her into the family. However, because of her need for medical attention and nursing care, she went to Maria linden, Rockford. It was here that the lord called her to her Eternal reward.
We Sisters in the West will always remember her as a person who was conscious of people's needs. Always pleading for the human touch, she would say, "Why can't Sisters eat with their relatives or better still, why can't the relatives who visit the Sisters eat with them? Why can't Sisters spend time with aged pa rents?" She saw to it that they did! However, later when we entered the "era of freedom" she commented, "Maybe now we are a little too free." Then Sister Patrice reminded her, "Sister Maria, we are where you have been for many years. " Then she would laugh and say, "Of course, and I have always believed in being human and let others be the same, haven't I?" Yes, Sister Maria did believe in being human but she always, as a good religious, never forgot that the Divine became human, so that we could become divine. May she now enjoy Divine and Eternal Peace!
Another important person, we would like to included in our "Memorials" is Father Guthman Who was ministering at Lourdes when God called him to his eternal reward.
In 1986, Father Guthman, affectionately known as "Father Bi 11" by his friends at Lourdes died suddenly of a heart attack at the parish rectory. Father was born in Nebraska City but lived in Our Lady of Lourdes Parish as a boy. His assignment as chaplain at the Veterans' Hospital brought him back to Lourdes.
Ordained in 1965, he served the Indian Mission at Winneba90 for seven years. He served as assistant pastor at Pius X, then as pastor at Lynch, Hubbard, Willis and Plainview. He was an Air Force Chaplain for over seven years and was stationed in Korea, Germany and Crete.
Before being assigned to Omaha he was chaplain for seven and one-half years at Veteran's Administration Hospital in Leavenworth, Kansas.
When he served at Plainview, Sisters Corbiniana and Fortis were his homemakers, so when he came to Lourdes to be in residence, he felt he had Special "kinship" with the Franciscans.
A tribute in the Parish Bulletin stated: "The Lourdes Family has been enriched by his presence and by his prayers, his sacramental ministry and his humor. We are grateful to God for sharing Father Bill with us. May he rest in peace!"
PRIESTLY VOCATIONS
The following priests graduated from Our Lady of Lourdes School:
Father Jacob Borer May, 1930
Father Floyd Brey, S.J. June, 1935
The following were listed in a program used for a Special Mass offered by the Serra Club Members in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, January 6, 1989:
Father Robert Gass May, 1953
Father Richard Farmer, O.P. June, 1955
Father Edward Quinn, S.S.C. December, 1955
Father William Fitzgerald May, 1958
Father Paul Manhart June, 1958
Father Thomas Furlong May, 1960
Father Kenneth McDonald May, 1960
Father William Weidner May, 1964
Father john Glogowski June, 1977
Father Thomas Bauwens June, 1987
The following are listed in the convent records:
Father William Rucker May, 1965
Father Edward Vacek June, 1973
Father Raymond Lisco
Brother john Dugick, O.S.B. February, 1989
ADDENDUM
Since 1989, two graduates of Our Lady of Lourdes Grade School have entered the priesthood:
Father Michael Eckley
Father Ralph O'Donnell
RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS
The following sisters were listed in the Parish Silver Jubilee Souvenir Booklet:
Sister Odilo, O.P. Suing
Sister Chrysagonus, O.P. Suing
Sister Patricia, R.S.M. McArdle
Sister Euphrasia, B.V.M. McArdle
Sister Ann Francis, S.L. McArdle
Mother Theresa, R.S.C.J. McElligott
Sister Margaret Mary, S.C.C. Alex
Sister Kathleen Ann, R.S.M. Quinlan
Catechist Mary Marguerite, S.M.C. Shields
Sister Mary Leontia, O.F.M. Gray
Sister Justin, O.S.F. Welch
Sister Jerento, O.S.F. Welch
The following were listed in a program used for a Mass for Vocations, sponsored by the Serra Club Members in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, January 6, 1989:
Sister Clare, O.S.C. Brown
Sister Mary Ellen, R.S.M. Quinn
Sister Carolyn, R.S.M. Coffey
Sister Corice, R.S.M. Evans
Sister Nedine, O.S.F. Ferris
Sister Lillian, O.L.P. Pluhacek