The 150-year anniversary celebration of the Felician presence in North America wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging the amazing work of our associates. Since 1990, these women and men have committed themselves to live the Felician mission, partner with the Felician Sisters and carry the Felician charism into the world. We are forever grateful to them for their service and their leadership.
We recently caught up with five of the original class of associates, all of whom made their first covenant—a formal commitment to live in mission and prayer with the Felician Sisters—in the 1990s. Here are their stories.
Natalie Preischel
Made covenant: 1990
Location: Buffalo, NY
“Remember, this is not a social club—it’s a way of life.”
What drew you to the associates program?
I was a Felician Sister for nearly 10 years in the late 50s and early 60s, then I left the order to start a family. My husband and I raised four boys.
Many years later, I realized I needed more time for my spirituality. A Felician Sister introduced me to the new associates program and I knew it was what I wanted to do. It has allowed me to grow in my faith, develop a deeper prayer life and get closer to Christ.
What has been the best part of being an associate?
Being able to grow spiritually and be around people of such strong faith. When you’re facing challenges, you can always talk to an associate or sister about it. Being an associate has been incredibly meaningful for me.
Any advice for someone considering joining the program?
Think carefully about this decision—it involves commitment. Study the Felician charism, learn about St. Francis, St. Felix, Blessed Mary Angela and the history of the Felician order. Talk to other associates and the sisters. Remember, this is not a social club—it’s a way of life.
How does the associates program need to change to stay current?
The sisters have emphasized that associates need to step up into leadership roles. We’re in a period of transition and fresh ideas are needed to move forward. A torch has been passed and we need to take hold of it—and we need new members to help us do this.
Virginia Mendez
Made covenant: 1995
Location: Pomona, CA
“My commitment has grown stronger over the years and so has my fervor.”
What was your early experience as an associate like?
There were 12 of us at the beginning here in California and we met at the parish church in Pomona. Sr. Denise Maria Amato recruited us and led the formation classes. She was a natural teacher—very creative and inspiring. It was such an exciting time for us. We felt privileged to be part of this religious experience.
What has been the best part of being an associate?
It’s hard to pick one thing. I’d say it’s how it has centered my prayer life and the close bonds I’ve formed with the other associates. We’ve gone through a lot together.
Has your time as an associate evolved for you personally?
My commitment has grown stronger over the years and so has my fervor. I know I want to keep doing this as long as I can.
Lorraine O’Shei
Made covenant: 1990
Location: Buffalo, NY
“I always felt welcome, like we were family. It has continuously nourished my spirit.”
Why did you become an associate?
It was a natural extension for me. I’ve felt connected to the Felicians my entire life. I attended Villa Maria Academy for high school and my math teacher, Sr. Barbara Marie Juszkiewicz, inspired me greatly. She later told us about the new associate program. I joined and have been uplifted by this group ever since.
What has been the best part of being an associate?
Knowing that I belong and that I am following my calling. Every time I’ve been with the associates and the sisters, I’ve felt I was on the right path.
How does the associate program need to change to stay current?
With the number of sisters decreasing, this is a critical moment. We’ve learned so much from the sisters and now it’s our responsibility to carry that forward. It’s a passing-of-the-torch moment and we need to act accordingly.
Any advice for someone looking to join?
If you feel called to play a bigger role in the Church and its outreach, this is the place for you. Pray on it, reflect deeply and be ready to lead. The work is rewarding but not for the faint of heart.
Frances Doda
Made covenant: 1996
Location: Mississauga, ON
“Being an associate all these years has been a constant source of joy.”
How did you first get involved with the associate program?
It was by chance. When I was little, I wanted to be a nun, but as an adult, I met my future husband and my plans changed. Our first house was just up the street from the Felician convent. I met the sisters at my parish and bonded with them immediately because we were both Polish. Years later, one of them invited me to join the associate program. I said “yes.”
What’s been the best part of being an associate?
Being in the service of God, knowing Him, loving Him and feeling His love in return. Being an associate all these years has been a constant source of joy.
Was there an especially challenging time for you?
Yes. A few years ago, I became quite sick and now use a wheelchair. Despite this, the sisters and associates have supported me. Sr. MaryAnne Olekszyk visits monthly and keeps me up to date with newsletters and calls. I’m patched into every meeting by phone and always feel included.
How has your service changed as an associate?
I’m a prayer specialist now. People call me with prayer requests—from helping someone find work to guidance in life. Of course, I also pray for bigger concerns, but this has become a meaningful way to serve.
Cottee Harris
Made covenant: 1995
Location: Chicago, IL
“Blessed Mary Angela was Polish and lived in the 19th century. I’m Black and live in the 21st century. But I have always felt a real connection to her.”
What made you want to join the associate program?
In the mid-90s, I worked with a Felician sister at Misericordia Hospital. She invited me to meet the sisters at the convent. I was struck by their closeness, love and meaningful conversations. When the opportunity came to become an associate, I took it.
What has been the best part of being an associate?
I love following the teachings and living a simple lifestyle. When I face challenges, I reflect on Blessed Mary Angela’s life and strive to serve marginalized people with joy, hope and compassion.
What was your most challenging time?
I had serious heart trouble and underwent a heart transplant. Twenty years later, I’m still here. God has always guided me and I’ve been able to continue serving others through nonprofit work.
Any advice for someone considering becoming an associate?
Pray and let the Lord guide you. You’ll discover many rewards in sharing the charism of Blessed Mary Angela and in learning about love, service and sacrifice.
Join the Journey
If you feel called to serve, grow spiritually and carry the Felician charism forward, we invite you to learn more about becoming a Felician Associate. Join us in taking the torch into the future!
