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Sister Sandra Neaves, FMA, provincial of the Mary Immaculate Province, holds up a copy of the 100th anniversary book.
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The Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco, also known as the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of their arrival to the United States from Italy in 1908. The sisters’ mission is, and always has been, to provide a quality Catholic education to youth, especially those less fortunate.
During the past century, the Salesian Sisters have educated hundreds of thousands of youth throughout this nation, and for more than 68 years they have had a strong presence in Texas, and for over 40 years in Louisiana.
The Salesian tradition of educational excellence in grades kindergarten through eight, stepped in family values, has prepared students to embrace the challenges of higher education both at the secondary and university levels.
Salesian school alumni have gone on to become businesspersons, athletes, scientists, entrepreneurs, health care professions, writers, teachers and successes in countless other professions.
To celebrate the many accomplishments the Salesian Sisters have achieved during the past 100 years, a dinner gala was held in the Omni San Antonio Hotel at The Colonnade on Feb. 13.
The evening featured performances by students from three of the Salesian Sisters’ institutions: St. John Bosco and St. James in San Antonio, as well as Mary Help of Christians School (MHC) in Laredo.
Student participation included the presentation of the colors by the MHC Boy Scout Color Guard, singing of the national anthem by MHC student Nicole Rector, choir performances from St. John Bosco and St. James schools, dancing from St. James School students and the T.R. Danz Xtreme Team, comprised of past pupils of St. John Bosco and the MHC school ribbon dancers.
The highlight of the gathering was the centennial presentation tributes from members of the Salesian family from four institutions and parishes.
Michelle Raymond of Laredo spoke of the value of a good Catholic education and academics that is nurtured and guided by the Salesian spirit. She cited by name Sister Amparo Uribe, Sister Ignacia Carrillo and Sister Ofelia Lozano for the impact they had on her and her family.
“I thank God each day for bringing them into our lives,” she said. “They helped me to be a better mother to my children and for that I am forever grateful.”
Delores Carter has been a kindergarten teacher at Our Lady of Prompt Succor School in Westwego, La., for more than 25 years. She told of Sister Carmen Botello bringing the Salesian presence to the institution and implementing their preventive system, based on reason, religion and living kindness. “It made us more conscious of ourselves, and Mary, Help of Christians became part of our lives,” said Carter. “Their spirituality, patience and kindness made for a happy work atmosphere.”
The teacher praised the “loving, caring and gentleness” of the sisters, of whom she said she has become life-long friends.
“You sisters continue to amaze and inspire all who follow you,” said Benito Guerrero of Cristo Rey Parish in Austin. “You challenge each of us to become better Catholics.”
The sisters came to Cristo Rey in 1982, and they continue to be steadfast in their faith, Guerrero said, adding, “We have been fortunate to have fantastic sisters who not only spark, but ignite the faith in our hearts.”
He said he has observed first-hand how the sisters put God first in their lives in overseeing the faith formation of youth in the parish. “I remain in a state of continual awe at what the sisters are able to accomplish,” said Guerrero. “I thank you for your sacrifices and all you are able to do.”
From St. John Bosco School, Mr. and Mrs. Galindo gave an emotional testimony of the effect the Salesian Sisters have had on their family.
Lastly, Sister Sandra Neaves, FMA, provincial, in closing remarks, noted that the gala brought to an end the order’s centennial celebrations in Texas and Louisiana. “We see the blessings of the Salesian cooperators, former students, VIDES volunteers and benefactors and friends. The mission of the Salesian family lives on because of you,” she concluded. “From our humble beginnings 100 years ago in Paterson, New Jersey, may God bless us as we enter our next 100 years.”